Issue 12

ANNANDALE HIGH SCHOOL

e h t

4 7 0 0 M e d f o r d D r. A n n a n d a l e , VA 2 2 0 0 3

LAS AB T informing the Atoms since 1954

703.642.4229

TUESDAY MAY 27, 2003

13

IDOL WORSHIP

WORK IT

One of TV’s most popular shows ends with a bang by naming Rueben Studdard the new American Idol.

Students work to save money for fun activities and other expenses.

Partly cloudy, temperatures still below average.

70º hi /51º low

brought to you by NBC 4

NEWS BRIEFS Antenna to distribute next week

The Antenna Yearbook will be distributed to seniors during Senior Night, June 2 in the cafeteria.

Distribution will be held June 4 and 6 during Flex in the cafeteria and in Dr. Fugate’s former office after school. Students must bring an ID to receive their yearbook. For the 775 preordered books, the Filament literary magazine and CD and the Signal Video Yearbook will be included. To purchase one of the 275 non-preordered yearbooks, students must bring $60 in cash.

50th anniversary planning A meeting to begin planning for AHS’s 50th anniversary will be held in the Lecture Hall from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. on June 19. All alumni, alumni staff and faculty are invited to attended. Sign-ups for committees will begin and information about plans for next year will also be conducted.

19

AROUND THE WORLD

SUMMER LOVIN’

Students plan to return to their home countries during this summer’s break.

As summer nears, Hollywood’s potential blockbusters are previewed.

New principal named Lake Braddock associate principal, Rod Manuel, becomes the fifth principal in AHS history

BY JOHN REISS Staff Writer Rodney Manuel, 39, a former history teacher, athletic director, and currently the associate principal at Lake Braddock High School. As of July 1, Manuel will become AHS’s principal, replacing current principal Donald Clausen after eight years of service.

Manuel gained knowledge and work habits in his years serving Fairfax County, but despite all that he has to offer, he doesn’t want to change AHS. Manuel hopes for a smooth transition into his new position, and to build on the foundation that AHS already has laid out.

“When you go to a school that has only had four principals in 50 years, they must be doing something right,” said Manuel. “I just hope to build onto what this school already has.”

Manuel himself, being a more sports-oriented man, assures students that sports will not be his sole priority at AHS. “Whether you participate in drama, band or athletics, every program will have my support,” said Manuel. “Academics is my first priority of course, but whatever kind of connection you can find to school through outside activities is a great thing.”

“I plan on just being myself,” says Manuel. “I’m not going to change myself, or the ways things are done at Annandale, but let people get used to me in their own time and fashion.”

Manuel looks forward to a more personal relationship with students then perhaps they are used to. He believes that the more interaction he has with students, the more enjoyable the learning atmosphere will be for all students.

“I hope to support and benefit from all the students and staff at AHS,” said Manuel. “I also want everyone to know that my door is always open, for whenever you feel the need to discuss something. I have a memory, that when I became Braddock’s associate principal, students would see me, and say ‘I though you were a security administrator because you are in the halls so much.’ This is the kind of relationship I want to build with students.”

Because of Manuel’s experience in almost every level of schooling, from middle school to college, he said he has a pretty fair idea of effective educational techniques for all grades. One program started by Manuel at Lake Braddock which he hopes to bring over to Annandale in the coming years, is a pyramid character education and business education program. He also hopes to try and extend the International Baccalaureate throughout the AHS community into middle schools where possible, giving students the most chances at receiving higher education.

Born at Fairfax Hospital, Manuel has lived in the Northern Virginia region for much of his life. Manuel attended Lake Braddock Secondary School, where he played football and baseball, and met his current wife, Gail Manuel. Graduating from Lake Braddock in 1981, he received his Undergraduate degree from George Mason University, and continued on to Baylor University in Texas for his Master’s. Furthering his education after Texas, Manuel went to the University of Virginia, where he received his degree in administration.

Immediately out of school Manuel worked as an Athletic Administrator at GMU. After working there for several years, he began to feel the need to get back into high

District champions

COURTESY TERRY ASHE

Senior Bobby Morganthaler and head coach Matt Caudle embrace after the Atoms’ Patriot District championship victory after defeating the Hayfield Hawks 6-2 on May 20. This is the Atoms’ first district title since 1973. See story page 16.

BY JULIA SINGER AND ALEX WAHL Journalism 1

20%

Throughout the next year and a half, construction at AHS will be drawing to a close. Students and staff alike have had to remain in every way flexible to make moves to new classrooms and offices.

Recently, Phase II of III has been completed with the move into four new classrooms and two new offices, as well as the upstairs language department.

The most recent word from Principal Don Clausen is that the entire project is moving along nicely. This week four new classrooms and two new offices in the upstairs language hallway have been completed, and just recently the Black Box theater and orchestra room have been completed.

“It’s a pain, but at least we will have a new theater;

19% Average

24% Poorly

37% —The survey was administered to 339 students by The A-Blast staff during B, C, and D lumches on May 19

“Principal” continued on pg. 6

Staff and parents who hoped to push the transfer of Ossian Hall Park ownership to AHS discovered at a May 12 meeting that the idea was never brought to the attention of the school board. Braddock School Board Member Tessie Wilson as well as other board members did not know the transfer was a topic of discussion until that night.

“I don’t think it’s an ownership issue but solving the security issue,” said Wilson.

Richard McCormack, one of the task force members as well as an AHS coach, parent, and neighbor, was one of the many at the meeting bolstering support for the transfer of ownership. “I was surprised they haven’t heard because it’s been discussed,” said McCormack. He emphasized the importance of support from students, teachers, parents, and the community through the long revision of Ossian’s master plan that can take anywhere between six months to a year and a half to complete.

At the meeting a handout was distributed listing facts about the park, about AHS, and how the park will be improved under AHS. The problems addressed were illegal crime and drug activity, shortage of parking for AHS students, and shortage of practice fields. Eight teams total travel off site for daily practice in the spring alone, costing $200 per day for buses. Although many believe it would be beneficial for AHS to receive proprietorship of “Ossian” continued on pg. 6

Phase II complete, rooms opened

Very Well Well

schools and Fairfax County. Returning to the school system where he had grown up, Manuel became an assistant principal for Twain Middle School for three years.

Next, he took up a position as a health teacher and head baseball coach for Edison High School. After working there for several years, Manuel found his way back to where he had begun, Lake Braddock.

BY KATHY IBARRA Staff Writer

Assistant principal Dr. Barbara Fugate’s retirement party was held to celebrate her 47 years of service Thurs. May 22 after school. Fugate has served AHS for fifteen years, this will be her last year.

How well do you think you have performed on the standardized tests (IB, AP, IGSCE, SOLs) that you have taken over the last few weeks?

Rod Manuel, AHS’s new principal as of July 1, currently works as assistant principal at Lake Braddock.

Ossian security a priority

Fugate retirement party

Tis’ the Testing Season

JOHN REISS

Today’s Weather

14

the acoustics in the old one sucked,” said sophomore Becky O’Neill as she and fellow sophomore Amy Jacobs organized boxes of one-act play scripts.

The drama department is just one of the many sites effected by the ongoing construction.

During Phase Three, several large projects will be initiated, including renovations to the auditorium, cafeteria, and the area under the upstairs gym. Construction workers will be working hard to finish many of the big projects over the summer while students do not attend.

“A great deal of work in the summer phase is the main work, and has to be done in the summer,” said Clausen.

More specifically, the auditorium will be upgraded this upcoming summer to include new padded seating as well as the latest lighting and sound systems. Handicap seats, which do not currently exist will be added as well.

“Renovations” continued on pg. 6

MORGAN MCEVILLY

8

VOLUME #48 ISSUE 12

Officer Paul Pickett talks with a few students in Ossian Park’s parking lot to ensure student safety.

2 EDITORIALS AB T I don’t like butts, I can’t lie the

LAS

TUES. MAY 27, 2003

Do you think it is acceptable for schools to hold segregated proms?

“Absolutely not.

It’s divisive. It goes against a time that I would prefer not to live through again where people are judged by superficial —Linda-Lee Slesinger Special Ed Teacher things”

—Justine Bui junior

“I don’t agree with it, but if it’s mutually accepted in their county.

So there’s nothing that’s going to stop them.”

“I think it’s wrong because segregation has been gone for decades. We need to get past that.”

—Diana Hollingsworth sophomore

“No because you can’t have a prom for two different types of people.

We’re past the times that separate two different races.”

—Mohammad Bhatti senior

“It shouldn’t be allowed. It teaches separation. It’s 2003, it’s all about the unity now.”

“I think it’s wrong. There’s no need to be separated. What if you have some friends that are black and some that are white?”

—Lianne Shugoll freshman

—Lilia Herrara Spanish teacher

“It is a horrible idea. This isn’t the 1800s.”

—David Bellis History teacher

smokers are a blemish to a student population that is marked more by diversity and talent, and not nicotine addiction.

Not only is smoking less than 20 yards from a religious institution tactless, it is disrespectful to a church that has been very supportive of AHS and the Annandale community. The Church offers over half of its parking spaces to students in addition to allowing AP and IB exams to be administered in their sanctuary. And how does we repay the church for its generosity? Anywhere from 20 students smoke on the field adjacent to church each morning.

The church smokers litter the field with cigarette butts that must also be shared by a large number of preschool children. The church provides daycare assistance to a number of Annandale families who also suffer

—In the May 6 issue of The A-Blast, students were misidentified on the man of the street on page 2.

—In the May 6 issue of The A-Blast, the rail item for the AHS Choral Department was misdated. The correct date for the event was Tuesday, May 13.

-In the May 6 issue of The A-Blast, Carol Rychlik was mistakened to be the Math Department Chair. The Chair is Gail Chmura.

Staff Vote

Imagine a world where your very ability to think is are done so for legal reasons. controlled by others, where free will is an illusion. In what However, the Harvard report, which noted discrepancould possibly be the first step in fulfilling this horrific cies between search results of regular Google and its prophecy from George Orwell’s 1984, Google has admitFrench and German counterparts, google.fr and google.de, ted to accusations that search results have been censored. listed several sites that face no apparent legal restrictions The website is not only the fourth most visited website from either government. For example, 1488.com, a networldwide, but Google is also responsible for running work for Chinese legal consultants, 14words.com, a Websearches for both AOL and Yahoo, the first and third most hosting service, and Jesus-is-lord.com, a fundamentalist visited websites, respectively. That means Christian antiabortion website, were all omitted from that Google runs upwards of half— 150 searches. million— the searches made around Other sites that are the world each day. A recent Harvard banned, though for study has uncovered over 100, generplausible legal reasons, ally controversial, websites omitted are anti-Semitic, profrom their search results listings.

Nazi or white supremaMohammad Edris Qarghah This is unacceptable, Google cist such as Editorials Editor should not abuse their immense Stormfront.org. on-line power by censoring While I am certainly not websites. defending these ideologies, as Voltaire supposThis is admittedly not a first amendment offense. edly said, “I may not agree with what you have Though a government agency would have been obligated to say, but I will defend to the death your right to say it.” to promote freedom of speech, Google, as a private indusThough a mere 113 websites are known to be censored, try, certainly has the right to censor websites as they compared to the 1.5 billion registered with the Google please. However, Google does, as a global power, have a search engine, this is no small issue. By deciding to yield moral responsibility to those they service as well. to government pressure Google has accepted that they Only Google can tell which sites and how many they are responsible for sites which they merely provide links have chosen to exclude, a question which they have deto. In which case, where should they draw the line? Should clined to answer. Google claims, simply, that sites are an anti-racism website be censored simply for having a chosen for exclusion on a case by case basis, and that they link to a neo-Nazi website to demonstrate the extent and

Commentary

Making the Grade Ban on guns to be lifted by Congress

F

Republicans in the House of Representatives are looking to abandon the Assault Weapons Ban which is up for renewal next year. This is preposterous considering that the ban forbid some of the most dangerous semiautomatic weapons. Such weapons are generally used for malicious intent. The ban includes AK-47’s and the Uzi sub-machine guns.

High school seniors haze juniors

CORRECTIONS ISSUE 11

the smokers and the detrimental situation that they create each morning. If a similar level of concern could be placed upon the smokers, the volume of smoking would decrease. Similar to the role KW Williams plays each morning when he monitors student parking, another administrator should be placed along the church pathway to encourage a no-smoking policy.

The issue at hand is not entirely the actofsmoking . Theproblemiswhere students choose to smoke. Those who decide to smoke on church grounds simply display a lack of respect that is not inherent in other AHS students.

It would be useless to request these students to kick their smoking habit.

However, smoking the morning cigarette in the car or finishing it off before reaching school would be a unreasonable compromise. Being addicted to nicotine before graduating high school is not a feat that should be brandished on church property. This staff editorial was written

by Hana Nguyen

from the poor manners of the nicotineaddicted students. Smokers not only provide poor role models to young, impressionable children but also demonstrate little regard for public respect. Would you like having smoke blown onto your three year-old child?

The smokers who congregate by the fence at AHS generate an air of intimidation. They block the high-traffic path in which students who park at the Yes No church m u s t travel.

63 1 T h e y Students should not smoke at the force pechurch as it is disrespectful and tackless destrians to track through the muddy field in order to avoid the smoke-filled air.

While administrators preach the importance of class attendance and enact strict truancy codes in addition to the RAT program (Reduce AHS Truancy), they do not place as much attention on

ENGUYEN@COX.NET

Google: censorship on the web Q

—Shakara LeCount junior

“Of course I think it’s wrong. This country was built on freedom and integration. To segregate would go against our foundation and principles.”

There is a jarring scene that repeats itself each morning along the pathway that connects the parking lot of The First Presbyterian Church of Annandale to AHS. Every morning, without fail, an average of 20 students converge along this path, exhibiting the usual morning banter, as they puff on cigarettes. These students participate in an activity that starkly contradicts the to the communal and familial image that is associated with a church. It is a well-known fact that smoking on school grounds is strictly prohibited. However, these AHS students have found a way circumvent this rule by smoking along the walkway.

The church smokers disengage the friendly relationship that exists between AHS and The First Presbyterian Church of Annandale. These few students create a poor representation of the student body and turn an otherwise welcoming environment into an eyesore. These

F

A disturbing tradition was exposed at Chicago’s Glenbrook North High School, after video footage of senior hazings made mass media coverage. The violent beating of to-be senior girls was atrocious, and possibly worse, the administration failed to take measures to stop the horrendous practice, despite previously inflicted injuries.

Georgia High School has segregated prom

F

Students at Taylor County High School in Georgia are now planning to hold a segregated prom. Last year, for the first time, the juniors decided to hold an integrated prom the first in 31 years. Parents and students have organized separate proms for white and blacks to avoid problems arising from interracial dating. The school has 439 students, of whom 232 are black.

Girl sues to be lone valedictorian

F

Blair Hornstines recently sued her school board in New Jersey, after they decided she had to share the valedictorian honor. Hornstines has an immune deficiency, and is classified as a disabled student. Due to this, she does not have to take gym and spends part of her school day at home.

Her lawsuit is asking for $200,000 in compensatory damages and $2.5 million in punitive damages.

lack of foundation for their racist tendencies? What about sites that don’t have legal reasons behind their exclusion?

How does Google decide what is too controversial, or what is simply unacceptable?

It is best that they simply do not. As soon as websites begin to be omitted for political or personal reasons, Google becomes a serious threat to the global community, regardless of whether or not they are of malevolent intent (I lean towards not, as I learned of this controversy through a Google search).

If Google feels it’s absolutely necessary to not to have a link to a particular site, they could still list it without providing a link. If that is not sufficient, they could indicate that there are omitted websites in applicable searches and provide a third party or subsidiary company with a complete listing of the excluded sites. This will ensure that Google does not abuse its power.

There is a reason why Google is so incredibly influential on the web, with outrageously accurate searches provided at an average .3 seconds, there are really no search engines that compete. With such power Google has a moral obligation to ensure that they don’t contribute to a creating an Orwellian dystopia.

E_QARGHAH@HOTMAIL.COM

the Annandale High School 4700 Medford Dr. Annandale, Virginia 22003

ABLAST Vol. 48 No. 12 May 27, 2003

Editors in Chief::

Philippe Podhorecki Andrew Satten Managing Editor: Reid Edwards News Editors: Caroline Friedman Abby Segall Editorial Editors: Edris Qarghah Junaid Shams Academics Editors: Laura Johnson Rebecca Kraushaar In-Depth Editors: Hayley Fletcher Hana Nguyen Features Editors: Martha Amoako Maggie Owner Sarah Bizer Atomic Articles Editor: Profiles Editors: Laura Hollowell Saman Hussain Cultures Editors: Wala’a El Barasse Rachel Sinaiko Sports Editors: John Bernhardt Jared Smith Sports “Extra”: Paul Gleason David Marin Atomic Athletics Evan Ashe Editor: Entertainment Edi- Alejandro Salinas tors: Katie Stanton Crystan Blanco Arts Editors: Erin O’Brien

Gallup Award Quill & Scroll 2000-2001

All American National Scholastic Press Association 2001-2002

(703) 642-4229 e-mail: ahsablast@aol.com fax: 642-4197

Cameron Kynes Katharine Kishiyama Business Manager: Ryan Teichler Ad Manager: Rachel Jones Copy Editor: Meg Nielsen Photography Chae-Wha Park Editor: Weekend Editors:

Photographers: Morgan McEvilly, Chris Rauer, Sean Sullivan, Andrew Menegat, Sarah Sherman Staff Writers: Anteneh Addisu, Kathy Ibarra, Wided Khadroui, Chris Kallander, Laura Kelly, Sohaib Khan, Elizabeth Nowrouz, John Reiss, Erik Rooney, Evan Rowland, Kathy Saupp, Amanda Sheaffer, Sarah Sherman, Kyle Smeallie, Sabrina Stacy, Lauren Sterlacci, Matt Wiest Videographers: Shabier Bahramy, Stephen Benson, Amanuel Beyene,Rachel Johnson, Josh Lewin, Mike Mahn, Javier Sanchez-Yoza, Brent Sullivan Adviser: Alan Weintraut

Trophy Class Virginia High School 2001-2002

The A-Blast is an award-winning newspaper that strives to inform, educate and entertain the student body and community. Published every three weeks. The A-Blast will not print any material that is obscene or libelous; or that which substantially disrupts the school day or invades an individual’s right to privacy. 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 225 or mailed to the school. The A-Blast reserves the right to refuse advertisements. All submissions become property of The A-Blast Copyright, 2003.

EDITORIALS 3

the

ABLAST

TUES. MAY 27, 2003

A candid review of my Atom experience With my remaining days at AHS going faster than the amount of time that most students have likely given my column each issue, the ink of my final “soundoff” will be dedicated to reflections regarding my four year ride at AHS. In Sept. of 1999 when I entered AHS, my only glimpse of high school life had been Friday night football games and exposure to the hit series Saved By the Bell, leading me to question, is this really what high school is going to be like? The answer: yes and no. Though I will concede that I am a strong advocate of AHS and have many a times trumpeted the merits of the school, in the following I will endeavor to convey a candid review of four years as an Atom.

Academics If students base their class selections on the strengths of the school, AHS can offer a top flight education. Though Pictured here with senior Sarah Sherman at a tailgate party for an Atom football game, a tradition started my sophomore year.

I have no way of comparing the AHS faculty to the teachPrincipal Clausen turned down the hot dog; must have been ers at other schools, I surmise that you would be hard something to do with the cook. pressed to find a more talented and dedicated staff, from history teacher Eleanor Shumaker who last year hosted To curb such activities, preeminent among the adminalmost 60 students at her home for a weekend lock-in to istrations efforts has been the Extracurricular Participaprepare for the A.P. exam, to journalism adviser Alan tion Pledge, a policy which is flawed and lacks uniformity Weintraut who at times puts in 15-hour work days when in implementation, factors which I like to believe have the newspaper is on deadline. Whether it be the result of contributed to my status as a repeat offender. While I Principal Clausen’s leadership style or the fact that most appreciate its intentions, I believe that more of an emteachers cite AHS as providing an enjoyable and chalphasis should be placed on curbing drinking and driving, lenging teaching atmosphere, from the P.E. department the most alarming and dire element of high school life, to band, interesting faculty personalities abound. that is freely partaken of every weekend.

I am not sold on the IB program, and after taking a Simply put, AHS features a sincerely friendly, open slate full of upper level classes, I would not recommend student body, that is just a nice mix of kids. Cliques are going for the I.B. diploma. There are too many better less prevalent, and the stereotypical high school caste things going on than to spend four years doing excessive system that features jocks and cheerleaders at the top of amounts of homework to prepare for exams. However, it the ladder does not abound. has helped elevate academics and has benDiversity efitted the school, as evidenced by this Though by the time one reaches senior year’s senior class which uncharacterstatus he or she has likely been jaded by istically boasts acceptance letters from exposure to four years worth of praise the likes of Princeton, Duke, U. preaching the merits of diversity at AHS, Penn, and Johns Hopkins. as painstaking as it is, I am going to hop on The Social Scene the bandwagon. Diversity is the defining Though I would not venture element of Annandale and the aspect that Andrew Satten to dub AHS a party school, as alCo-Editor in Chief makes it such a remarkable setting in which cohol and drugs are less prevalent to receive an education. From playing bason the social scene than at other high ketball in P.E. with a Kosovoan refugee who limped down schools, there still is enough that goes on that makes it all the court on a prosthetic leg ravaged in the midst of fightthe more relieving for parents when they send their kids ing, to debating in class what military action should be off to college or the work world. For instance, this year’s taken in Afghanistan with a student who weeks earlier senior class threw a party during school one Friday, to had a U.S. missile obliterate the hut of his relatives, you which the host, T.J. Mudd, voted class of 03’ life of the cannot help but gain a revitalized perspective on life. Such party, jovially greeted School Resource Officer Paul Picket exposure yields a real world experience and education with “What, you didn’t get your invitation?” when Picket that not even the most prestigious prep schools, the best inquired about the situation. teachers, and most high-tech facilities could match.

S

atten’s oundoff

However, further strides must be taken in meshing the diverse student populations. There tends to be a schism between Caucasians and minorities particularly in terms of the activities in which they participate. For instance, last year of the 21 members pictured in the yearbook as being members of Model U.N., 21 were Caucasian, while the Future Business Leaders of America, a club of a similar stature, pictured 24 members, 21 of whom were minorities.

Sports Whether you are a self-proclaimed jock or prefer to live out your sports dreams by playing NFL 2K3, high school sports has a lot to offer either as a player or a fan.

Being part of a high school athletic team is a worthwhile experience. From a spectator standpoint, they also offer great cheap entertainment. Some of the most thrilling games, biggest upsets, and most outstanding individual performances in sports I have seen play out within J. Wallace Bolding Stadium and Robert G. Hardage Gym. And amidst the corporate hoopla and money that dominates professional sports, those involved with high school athletics are in it for the love of the game.

A commentary on sports would Over the last 8 years, swim coach Bruce not be complete without referencFisher has only ing the coaches that direct them. I missed one practice have the utmost respect and thoror meet. I have oughly enjoy the personalities of all witnessed similar dedication in all of the of the coaches under which I have coaches I have played played (Bob Christie, Bruce Fisher, under.

Albert Steppe, and a 2-year stint in Bill Maglisceau’s lax program).

However, I know of other athletes that have had less pleasant experiences. Too often I have observed kids having to choose between being a student and an athlete. Certain coaches at times become disillusioned, unable to grip that the vast majority of their players’ futures lie in academics and are not destined for professional sports. For instance, I know of one coach who gave a speech to some of his players expressing sentiments to the effect of I don’t understand why you kids work so hard in these I.B. classes, there’s nothing wrong with C’s.

And as June 17 nears, my advice to underclassmen is not to count down the days until graduation. Instead, make the most of the experience of being a student at AHS, before the chapter is irrevocably closed on those times that are only reserved for high school.

SATTDOG3@AOL.COM

The best of times... I think (hope) not “It was the best of times, it was the worst of times... it was the spring of hope, it was the winter of despair.” Ah, high school. Many say that these years are the best of a person’s life. With parties, participation and pastimes, high school can certainly be a time to remember, or, to forget. For some of us, high school isn’t the be all and end all of our existence.

To those quiet, withdrawn few, I say this: for those of you who can no longer take interest in the frivolous life of a teenager, do not despair. For those of you who don’t feel that these years have been the best of your life, that you could do better, good for you. Life doesn’t stop when high school does, it just begins.

Some of you Atoms must feel like you just don’t fit in anywhere. No one inter-

ests you, no one thinks the way you do, and consequently, you are lost among a sea of those who are swept up by the current of perennial preoccupations such as homecoming court or who made the biggest fool out of themselves at last weekends massive drunken gathering.

In retrospect, it is easy for me to see that letting go of high school life now will leave one more prepared for the real world.

People who can look beyond the specious scenery Kathy Saupp of vapid small talk and blistering insecurities will see what really matters: knowing deep down what you are doing and the track that you are on is for you and you alone. In the real world, individualism will foster

K athy’s Q uandaries

success and recognition, not alienation.

However, while immersed in our sea of 2,400 carefree, fun-loving fish, things can seem pretty bleak. No one can understand the exact reasons they don’t seem to act or articulate like everyone else.

What’s wrong with me? These transients resonate this question over and over in their head, a miserable mantra, day after day.

The answer—is nothing is wrong with you. If you don’t believe it now, soon you will.

For some people, this sense of malaise can overshadow them throughout high school. It is the bleakest for these few, four interminable years of misery, and then what? More rejection? For those of us who feel this unrest, life is a strange limbo — ready to leave, but compelled to stay. The only thing that we can do about it is to learn, and to be ready for the change that will be a giant leap for many,

but hopefully a small step for those who have been chomping at the bit for so long.

As for life, those of us that feel each minute passing in a monotonous cycle of red day, white day, red day, white day, can only hope and pray that with a change of scenery and society will come a turnaround in outlook. Sometimes, you just have to take a leap of faith, and hope that things in the real world will be immersed, intriguing, and important.

In my final column in The A-Blast, I say this: For those of you who are disillusioned with living the high school life, just remember that high school can be the age of wisdom, it can be the age of foolishness, it can be the season of light, or the season of darkness, you can have everything before you, or nothing at all. Its your choice. And don’t feel like you are wrong if you approach it differently than everyone else. When you get bogged down by what is right in front of you, look beyond it.

PHILE09@HOTMAIL.COM

The word ‘gay’ not needed in today’s society ABBY SEGALL AND MAGGIE OWNER News Editor and Features Editor Can you pick out the correct use of the word “gay”?

A. “That movie was so gay” B. “Isn’t Will from Will and Grace is gay?”

C. “How gay was that homework last night?”

The answer is B, though in today’s society A and C are commonly used. Personally, we’ve never had a homosexual homework assignment before.

As a high school student walking through the hallways, overhearing casual conversations, how many times a day are your ears bombarded with derogatory sentences with the terms: “gay,” “queer,” “fag” or “homo” used as an adjective synonymous with “stupid” or “ridiculous”?

With so many people using these words, we are creating an offensive language which is accepted by our culture. When younger kids hear these words used as pejorative language by teenagers, they will think it’s appriopriate to start using them as well. The use of these words creates a negative climate and presents a subtle endorsement of the idea that homosexuals are an inferior class of people.

Over the years, the use of these words have changed meaning and have become more ubiquitous and surprisingly well-established in our culture. How can our society be ac-

cused of being overly concerned about being politically correct when we carelessly throw around these terms?

The major issue here is not to be politically correct, however, it is to use common sense in every day life and use a smarter vocabulary. Not only is the use of this offensive language disrespectful, it also shows immaturity. People who use “gay,” “homo,” or other adjectives such as these, demonstrate their lack of vocabulary, since they are not able to find an alternative that is not disresptful.

Besides, what is the difference between calling a person of color a negative word based on their ethnicity and calling a homosexual a “faggot”?

Why do we not have the same taboos for negative words associated with homosexuality?

When Senate Majority Leader Trent Lott made a controversial statement about the value of rights based on race, he was quickly termianted from his position. It remains to be seen what will happen to Pennsylvania Senator Rick Santorum who recently compared homosexuality to pedophilia and bestiality.

Santorum, the third highest ranking Republican in the Senate, described homosexuality as “antithetical to a healthy, stable traditional family.” Will Americans allow these negative homophobic expressions to be flung around in everyday conversations and pretend it is not a significant issue?

People feel that if they use the words just once or twice then it is dif-

ferent than using the words frequently. However, even if a person uses these words just once they are spreading a negative homosexual connotation.

The words that we choose to use reflect our individual thoughts.

When a person uses the word “gay,” in a negative way, we can only conclude that they have no respect for people with different sexual orientations, and are probably homophobic.

The impact of these words can be sobering. One example of words leading to negative actions would be just a few years ago, when teenager Matthew Shepard was murdered for being a homosexual. However, people still persist in using this language that promotes homophobic behavior. A person would think that after a boy is killed for his sexual preference, that would be the time to stop endorsing the negative use of “fag” and “gay”. However, America has not seemed to get that under its belt.

People argue that using these words doesn’t matter because they are not using these words negatively.

However, as you call each other “faggots” or “gay,” you are allowing homophobia to spread and for homo-

sexuals to feel rejected by their own society. People such as the ones who killed Matthew Shepard were led to believe it is acceptable to hate homosexuals.

Well-meaning people may not realize they are promoting this behavior because, as more and more people use these negative words so casually, we all can become oblivi-

ous to the longterm consequences of their use. Replace the first examples with “Canadian” (another group of people). “That movie was so Canadian” or “How Canadian was that homework last night?” Now doesn’t that sound stupid?

ABBYISS527@AOL.COM AND MAGS550@AOL.COM

Here goes nothing RYAN TEICHLER Business Manager For the nine or 10 of you actually reading this article despite its less then desirable location in the rail (shows how much respect these editors have for my writing ability) you are in for a treat. My assignment was to write an editorial. “About what?” I inquired. “Just write about something” was the response. So here goes nothing.

Often I hear students complaining that The A-Blast sidesteps the major issues. Well I'm going to put an end to that.

All of you out there who have been the first person in the lunch line know how exciting that experience is. You know you have successfully avoided the tenminute wait and that group of big tough seniors aren’t going to be able to cut in front of you this time. You’re golden, or so you think. You’re one of the first five in the door, and you grab one of the first five fries but to your bitter dismay, the only fries available are the ones left over from the lunch before. The line leaders should be rewarded for their efforts and accomplishment.

They have strategically placed themselves close to the door to be the first ones out of class when the bell rings. They have braved the over crowded halls, out-maneuvered their peers and avoided human contact all for luke warm french fries. That, my friends, is troublesome.

Sticking with the lunch theme, I propose that multiple announcements over the loudspeakers be strictly prohibited.

We are there to eat lunch, not to be constantly reminded that tickets for the play are still on sale or to be notified that it is somebody’s birthday. The drama department and the SGA should flip a coin to determ i n e who gets to make the announcement for the day. Whoever wins the toss, remember you only get one so make it good.

I could have spent this opportunity to discuss the fact that we still don't have a ceiling, the boys lacrosse team never did have a senior night, or that The A-Blast is still using seven-year-old Macs that weren't even designed to run the software we use and crash every other day, but I'll leave all that to someone who actually gets printed in a location other then the rail.

RTEICH17@HOTMAIL.COM

4 NEWS NEWS BRIEFS

the

ABLAST

TUES. MAY 27, 2003

Video production club begins

Leigh Wheeler, wife of German teacher Jeff Wheeler, gave birth to a baby boy on Tuesday May 15. The two decided to name him Aaron and he is 7 lbs. 8oz., 21”.

Wheeler will be out for two weeks while Ingrid Hester substitutes.

Increased Terror Alert concerns county With the national threat level for terrorism being raised to Code Orange, Fairfax County officials are reviewing the safety and security measures for public schools. At the current time there are no changes in school events, field trips and other activities that take place on school grounds.

End of the Year Theater Plays On Wed. May 28 the Theater Arts 1 classes will perform short plays in the auditorium at 7 p.m.

This quarter’s Company Play, which is normally held during the school day, will be held on Thurs. May 29 at 7 p.m. in the auditorium.

Final Orchestra Concert The final Orchestra Concert of the year will be held in the auditorium on Fri. May 30 at 6:30 p.m.

Juniors Erin O’Brien, Janet Partlow, Linsey Berens and Kate Bagnulo work in the new media center during their peer mediation class. This media center will be the location for new Video-Production club.

club because, “it’s something I’ve always been interested in and I like that kind of work.” Martin hopes to do stories

AHS Chorus holds spring concert Chorus says goodbye to seniors in one of the final concerts of the school year

BY LAURA KELLY Staff Writer The choral department held it’s spring concert in the auditorium on May 22, at 7:30 p.m.. Every chorus group was featured: the Men’s Chorale, Women’s Ensemble, the Annandale Singers and the Concert Choir.

Each chorus group had a turn to go up on stage for one of the last shows of the year. They all sang about six or seven songs at a time.

There were also some solos, duets, and trios.

Senior Bayla Whitten sang “Shim Shalom,” senior John Park and junior Moses Choi performed “Suo Gan”, and freshmen Mary Draper, Bristina Strzelecki and sophomore Michael Parker all performed “Song for the Mira” as a trio.

At the end of the concert, all of

the chorus groups sang together with the graduating seniors standing in the front. Having all the seniors singing in the front was a way of paying tribute to the chorus students who would be graduating this year.

“We really have had some very talented singers this year at Annandale,” said chorus teacher Carleen Dixon.

On Friday, June 13, the choral department will be having its spring recital featuring all of the advanced groups at the First Presbyterian Church. On Thursday, June 26, there will also be a pre-tour concert at St. John’s United Methodist Church for the forty choral students who will be going to Germany this summer.

“It was a great concert, although it’s sad to see all the seniors leave,” said sophomore Tamara Friedler.

At the spring chorus concert, director Carleen Dixon leads the Concert Chorus at one of their final events this year. The Women’s Ensemble, Annandale Singers, Men’s Chorale, All-State and Honors Choir members and combined choirs also performed.

The chorus will perform in the auditorium on May 27 at 7:00 p.m. Their spring recital is June 13 and their Germany Pre-Tour concert will be held on June 22.

Music honor society holds a last fling

Whitney Houston offers Writing Contest

Music honor society ends the year with a variety of musical talent

BY LAURA KELLY Staff Writer CHAE-WHA PARK

The Whitney Houston Writing Achievement Contest is coming to AHS for graduating seniors who are looking for college or summer cash. Houston’s single “Try It On My Own” is about what graduating seniors have earned the right to attempt.

Houston is asking students to write on this topic and what adventures seniors face as they graduate and go to college. Also include what has helped you prepare for this and anything else you feel is relevant to the topic. All seniors are invited to submit essays of 500 words or less. There will be three cash prizes of $1,000 each given to the winning school or club and the student. Therefore, the three winning students will receive $500 each and their school will win $500. Submissions are due June 1 and winners will be chosen by June 5. Enter by mailing your essay to SHAGG, 2375 Gladstone Ave., Louisville, KY 40205. Postmark by June 1.

For questions call Teresa at 1800-362-1298.

on interesting people and places and explore the unknown things about AHS. “I’d like to learn more about the technology end of video production and improve communication in the school,” said Martin. “I also want to unite the different clubs in the school.”

To prepare for starting her own Video Production Club, Wicklund attended numerous county meetings and spoke with other schools who have a television station or some other form of broadcasting.

The Media Center has also lended its services to the Peer Mediation classes for a promotion video endorsing the mediation process. During multiple days the mediation classes went to the Media Center, learned about the equipment and all the different features of the center, filmed and edited their project.

“I thought it was really cool [to go to the Media Center] because we got to use sophisticated equipment that I hadn’t gotten to use before,” said junior Janet Partlow.

So far there are approximately 15 students who have shown interest in the club and more are encouraged to join. There are various jobs that students can have a part in.

Students are needed to run all aspects of the broadcast studio, including cameras, lights, sound, be anchors or actors and many other jobs. The next meeting of the Video Production Club will be held on Wed. May 28 at 1:00 p.m. due to the shortened SOL day.

CAROLINE FRIEDMAN

German teacher welcomes newborn to the world

Tired of hearing Mr. Hearn do the morning announcements every day? Well next year the morning announcements will be televised with fellow students leading the show. On Wed. May 21 the Video Production Club started the preparation as it held its first meeting in the Media Center inside the Library. The club is for people who have interest in learning how to use video equipment to make movies and do other video related project.

Some of the plans for the Video Production Club are to create a television show to broadcast in classrooms beginning next year. Students began making plans for the television show and they also began learning how to use the equipment.

The club, sponsored by Media Specialist Dawn Wicklund. She looks foreword to the possibility taking on the responsibility of broadcasting the morning announcement next year.

“I think we are going to aim for a monthly show before we get into it,” said Wickland. She hopes that the club will be able to expand to a larger audience as the construction continues and in two years when the construction is over this will be feasible because the Media Center will be able to be viewed by all classrooms in the school.

Junior Donald Martin has a sparked interest in the

ABBY SEGALL

BY CAROLINE FRIEDMAN AND ABBY SEGALL News Editors

AHS receives $500 grant from Exxon to help Career Center An Exxon representative hands over a $500 checkto Principal Don CLausen and Career Center Specialist Robin Roth. According to Director of Student Services, Steve Sengstak, Roth did all the preparation work in order to receive the grant. Roth wrote the proposal, submitted the application and “won it all by herself.” “It was a great opportunity and she saw it,” said Sengstak. The grant was given to AHS in order to help out the guest career speakers and career center.

SPARKY’S

EXPRESSO CAFE • & e • m Co oy! • j En •

Coffee Sandwiches Juice Sweet treats

1720 14th St. NW Washington, D.C. 20009

Thoon Rhee Kickboxing Girls (15 - over) 4 weeks - $75

703 - 642-5000

The Music Honors Society held its annual recital in the auditorium on May 19.

The performers presented a variety of musical pieces, some vocally and others with instruments such as the piano, string instruments, saxophones, flute and even a xylophone.

Each member of the Honors Society went up to present their musical talent whether it was singing or playing a musical instrument.

Sometimes the students performed as a duet or trio. Some students were accompanied by Cindy Adkins, Russell Penney or by one of their fellow Honors Society members.

“This concert showcases the musical tal-

ANTHONY C. VISCOMI D.D.S., LTD. Office Hours by Appointment Telephone: (703) 750-9300 7010 Evergreen Court Annandale, Virginia 22003

BRACES ADULTS AND CHILDREN 5204 B LYNGATE COURT BURKE, VA 22015 (703) 425-5125 RODNEY J. KLIMA, D.D.S. P.C.

ent and overall achievement of these students,” said junior Donald Martin.

To get into the Music Honors Society, students are required to have a 4.0 average in their music classes and a 3.0 grade point average overall.

Students from any music class are allowed to apply. The Honors Society is made up of guitarists, vocalists, band and orchestra members.

According to performers, the Honors Society’s recital is a great event for gathering musical talent.

“There is always a lot of talent here at the end of the year recital,” said senior Victoria Benson.

Some of the musical pieces that were presented included “I Will Never Leave You,” sung by Bayla Whitten and Victoria Benson, “Moonlight Sonata,” played by Natalie Dao Wallace on the piano, and “Bella Siccome Un Angelo,” performed by Michael Weinberg.

“I thought everyone did a great job,” said Music Honors Society sponsor Russell Kee. “There were some really nice pieces that were performed.”

Pre-Owned Luxury Vehicles www.eeeautosales.com

EEE of Fairfax

10530 Lee Highway Fairfax, VA 22030 Tel: (703) 218-4888 Toll Free: (877) 700-4888 E-mail: eeeoffairfax@msn.com

Pink Posey Florist Fresh & Silk Arrangements Fruit & Goodie Baskets Balloons and Gifts (703) 941- Pink (7465) 7857-A Heritage Drive (800) 472-3475 Annandale, Va 22003

NEWS 5

the

ABLAST

TUES. MAY 27, 2003

Filament to include art, music For the second year in a row, the literary magazine, The Filament, is publishing a CD comprised of tracks performed by various students. The CD consists of nine tracks with various forms of expression including a letter read to the senior class and songs in multiple languages. The adviser for The Filament magazine and CD is Spanish teacher Felicidad Hunt-Branch, but much of the CD’s organization was done by senior Monica Ortiz-Ateca.

“We got the idea from a school in California during a conference we attended a few years ago,” said HuntBranch. “Another school in Florida also made a CD, but we are the only school in the area to have one.”

Ortiz-Ateca, who was a part of The Filament CD last year, handled most of the creative aspect of the CD. She contacted the studios and set up

songs and providing consistency for songs. “I was never involved in something like this when I was in high school,” said Fisher. “It’s a pretty cool idea.”

Students took part in the CD for various reasons. Sophomore Caroline Shedlock was asked to write a letter to the senior class and read it on the CD. “It was fun to record the CD because it was a new experience, and we got to use a variety of recording equipment,” said Shedlock. Shedlock recorded her letter three times and Fisher helped to mix the best parts of each take.

Making this CD was a new experience for many of the students involved. While two people, Ortiz-Ateca and Jonathan Kassalow, were part of last year’s CD, they had larger parts in this year’s production, making it a slightly different ordeal.

“It was cool to be in charge of making this CD,” said Ortiz-Ateca, “not a lot of people get to do that.”

Broadway Desserts serves up more

Senior Courtney Thieberger and Junior Valerie Graves sing at the Broadway Desserts encore on May 13. Over 200 tickets were sold to this event which took place in the auditorium.

they were even more relaxed and comfortable with the songs,” said the co-coordinator of Broadway Desserts, Meg Kieffer. “The sound people also did a good job that evening.

They were all wonderful, it was everyone’s best performance.”

COURTESY OF MO ADATO

The Broadway Desserts encore, held May 13 in the auditorium, was aimed to help re-emburse students for some of the funds lost due to the spring trip. The trip to New York was first cancelled and then unexpectedly that decision was revoked and the chorus continued with their trip.

“We generated more than a thousand dollars,” said Chorus teacher Carleen Dixon “That’s really good, it’s $1,000 more than we had before.”

Although the Chorus still did not make all of the money that they lost in the confusion of the spring trip, they still consider what they made progress.

“The amount of money was good, so it helped us pay back a lot of people,” said senior Christine Sabotta. “I had a lot of fun. Broadway Desserts encore was an opportunity for me to do the Broadway songs again, which I really liked.”

About 200 tickets were sold and 37 pieces were sung.

Men’s choral, Women’s Ensemble, Annandale Singers, Senior Girls and a few people from the concert choir all worked together. The Chorus also held a spaghetti dinner recently to compensate for some of the money lost.

“The fundraiser went very well, the kids were terrific,

COURTESY OF JESSE VOLLRATH

BY WIDED KHADRAOUI Staff Writer

Band wins big on Spring Trip Junior John Olsen performs at Myrtle Beach where the band came close to winning the Festival Champion status. They went on their spring trip from April 10-13 and came .006 points away from winning first place. The band still has their spring concert to perform and the jazz band will also be performing later in the spring. Band next performs on June 3 in auditorium.

Celebrate Any Occasion With Ice Cream And Individual Treats

BASKIN ROBBINS Turnpike Baskin Robbins Turnpike Center 9547 Braddock Rd 703-425-5131

SCHOOL NEWS Parent-Activist wins award for book on AHS

COURTESY OF THE FILAMENT

BY STACEY MARIN AND AMY SUDDARTH Journalism 1

recording times for the artists. OrtizAteca also recorded two songs for the CD itself.

Hunt-Branch took care of the logistics of production, including the publication of the CD. Both OrtizAteca and Hunt-Branch got AHS students interested in recording, and listened to 30 demo-tapes before choosing eight final students to record the nine tracks on the album.

The CD was recorded at Bias Recording Studio and the copies were made by Oasis Publication. The studio is run by parent, Gloria Dawson, who provided free recording for the students. The only money that was spent on the CD was the money necessary for the 1,000 copies made at Oasis Publication.

Mike Fisher, an employee at Bias Studios, oversaw the production of The Filament CD as one of his first projects. He also mastered the CD at Airsho Mastering Company, which includes sequencing the songs, fading, inserting spaces between the

NEWS BRIEFS

The Filament staff put together a 28-page literary magazine and produced a music CD featuring school talents performing original works.

IB Testing comes to an end

Eileen Kugler, a member of the AHS community and mother of two AHS graduates, has recently been awarded a book of the year award for her recent work on her book on diversity at high schools around the country.

The Delta Kappa Gamma Book of the Year Award for 2003 is presented to the author of a book which, according to the society’s website, “may influence future directions of education.” The Delta Kappa Gamma International Society was established in 1929 as a prestigious international honor society of women educators from 14 countries in Europe and North America.

For her work, titled Debunking the Middle Class Myth, Kugler will be awarded a $1,500 prize, and will be presented with her accolade on July 18 at the Southwest Conference in Raleigh, North Carolina, with the opportunity to speak to an audience of 800 individuals.

“I am thrilled and honored to win the award,” said Kugler, “it gives great credibility to the message to have it be recognized in this way by such a wellrespected international organization.”

Kugler, a journalist and communications consultant, began her work on the book last year. After five months of

BY SOHAIB KHAN Staff Writer About 255 students took numerous IB tests from May 5 to May 23. The exams were given in 26 different subjects and levels, and in 53 different tests.

The tests were held in the sanctuary of First Presbyterian Church of Annandale, Activity Hall, Principle’s conference room, cafeteria, and the lecture hall.

The IB tests cost about a $125 per student, but the PTSA has offered to pay for the tests. The PTSA fund-raiser raised about $10,000 for the students this year. Money was generated through donations for the testing fund, PTSA Red and White Golf Classic, and the book signing of the Eileen Kugler’s book, Debunking the Middle Class Myth.

The test are sent to about 20 different countries to be graded. The tests are graded on a scale from 1 to 7, 4 being the passing score. If the students do not pass, it does not affect their grade. However, many colleges award credit for strong performance on the exams.

Also, in order for students to receive the IB Diploma, a total of number points must be accumulated on the tests.

IB testing coordinator Erin Albright and SOL coordinator Paul Litwinetz worked industriously in organizing the IB testing schedule.

“It is the hardest three weeks of the year, but it’s all worth it,” said Albright. “Each test has multiple parts and require specific materials. It has to be administered correctly, and it requires a huge amount of concentration.”

Students were exhausted by having tests every day. “I felt like burning out because some days I have fix or six hours of tests, and I think I did well, but could have done better if the tests were not close together,” said senior Liz Tran.

The teachers prognosticated that their students were ready for the tests. “My students were very well prepared and were confident that they had done well.

Both the tests were demanding, but fair, and they all thought he or she had done well,” said IB English 12 teacher Jaqueline Foote.

Every year a meeting is held after the IB tests where examiners choose IB test papers at random and assess the testing pool of the school to try and improve the curriculm and bring them up to IB test standards.

writing 10 to 15 hours a day, seven days a week, she completed her book and had it published last fall.

“I really wrote during this time because I couldn’t not write,” said Kugler. “As my husband says, I was obsessed with the topic for those months. I couldn’t think or talk about anything else.”

Addressing the topic of diversity and its effects on education around the country, Kugler has been actively involved in defending AHS’s diverse student body, as well as diversity elsewhere around the country.

“I felt it was important for the public to understand that academics are not lowered in schools with diverse student bodies. The reality is that student learning is enhanced, both academically and socially, because of the diversity.”

Kugler’s experience in the AHS community over the past decade and the lessons she has learned via her interaction with the principal, faculty, students, and parents inspired her work.

Kugler has addressed many different organizations both locally and nationally, such as the local Rotary and Women’s Club to various national conferences on “the unique strengths of diverse schools.”

During the writing process, Kugler interviewed educators, parents, and students from many diverse schools across the country, many of whom expressed frustration with the common public view of diversity.

“There was lots of enthusiasm for the book because people felt I was telling their story,” said Kulger.

Now, several months after the publication, Kugler is very pleased with the progress her book has made.

“I am very surprised at the extremely positive reaction to the book,” said Kugler. “Educators and researchers are thrilled that the message is being told by a parent who lived through [diversity].”

Eileen Kugler has been receiving invitations from various organizations all over the country to speak on the topic of diversity. Throughout the next several months, Kugler will be traveling to Georgia, Illinois, Alaska, Maryland, North Carolina, and Texas, with additional opportunities within Virginia.

“You can all be proud to be part of one of the most diverse schools in the country that is proving that students from all over the world can respect and learn from each other every day,” said Kugler. “I truly believe when students from Annandale High and places like it are running the world, it will be a better place.”

—Matt Wiest Staff Writer

7 ACADEMICS

—Mike Krzywicki sophomore

“Enemy at t h e Gates.

I t ’ s rated R, but o u r teacher got it approved. She just couldn’t show the sex scene.”

—Susan Lanier junior

“School House Rock.

They don’t show good movies at Annandale because they’re too worried about being politically correct.”

—Liz Tran

senior

“I show Men in Black in my government class.

It ties into the curriculum because of its multi-layer approach to what it means to be an alien, which is the American experience.”

—John Hawes Government teacher

“Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf is one of my favorites because its masterfully written, and its dark humor and twisted plot directly led to the creation of the Ratings System.”

—Alan Weintraut Film Study teacher

R

As we reach the last stretch of school before summer sets in, both the students and faculty are becoming anxious for the end of the year.

With the anticipation of late nights, sleeping late into the morning, and no homework to either complete or grade, this is the time of year when everybody is getting summer fever.

In an attempt to assuage the growing anxiety felt by their students, several teachers use the end of the year as a chance to repose, especially after the heavy testing season is over.

For both students and teachers alike, this brief respite is a welcome one, and by the time testing is done, cannot come too soon.

As an alternative to lessons, which are often pointless after testing, some teachers indulge their students by showing movies at the end of the year.

These movies can be educational, or simply for the enjoyment of the students, who feel as though they deserve a break after weeks of constant testing.

“After taking so many tests, everybody feels as though the best thing to do is just sit back and relax,” said sophomore David Vollrath.

“I like watching movies at the end

of the year because it’s something I don’t have to think about. After testing is done, my brain is so worn out that I can’t focus on anything.”

This is the general consensus of the rest of the student body. The less people have to think before the end of the year, the happier they are, which is why people are so enthusiastic about watching movies in class.

Some teachers use the movies as an easy lesson as opposed to lecturing before finals.

“For two weeks now kids have been reviewing and studying for IB and AP tests, so I figured I’d give them a little relaxation. That’s all they need after all that studying,” said AP science teacher Paula McCallum, whose showing Jurrasic Park.

Other teachers use movies or videos as teaching aides throughout the year.

With generation X inundated by such visual stimuli as TV, video games, music videos, and movies, teachers have adapted to the changing times.

“I think that if it pertains to the subject matter, then [showing videos] is fine,” said physics teacher William Shirkey. “A well done documentary or video is one of the best

[teaching] tools you can use.”

He’s shown the movie October Sky in his physics classes. The movie is set during the Cold War after Sputnik w a s launched.

It serves as an introduction to the space program.

What’s important to remember though is that not all teachers show movies at the end of the year. In fact, most don’t.

“I think showing movies in school serves a purpose, but I choose not to do it. I certainly see why some teachers do it,” said English teacher Bill Maglisceau.

Many teachers feel as though while watching movies in school can be productive, it is too time consuming.

“I like doing a lot of relaxed

TO IL

BY JOSH LEWIN Videographer

A SHA RAU CA K

With the end of the year near, teachers are relying on movies to keep students occu-

PHO

“We watched a French movie in Mr. Valentino’s class because we were studying the French Revolution. You don’t often watch French movies in school.”

Movies in school C REBE N BY ATIO R T S LU

—Alex Barker freshman

ABLAST

Now Playing:

What’s the best movie you’ve seen in school?

“Apollo 13 in Mr. Dishuns’ class.

We watched it during flex because we were ahead in class.”

the

TUES. MAY 27, 2003

SENIORS MICHAEL WEINBERG AND HAYLEY FLETCHER

stuff, but even relaxation has to have a purpose,” said government teacher John Hawes. “I do not regard this as recreational time, I regard it as educational time.”

The overriding sentiment is that movies are an easier alternative to bookwork or lectures, but they can still be informative and productive.

“Hollywood is still enormously influential in changing Americans’ opinions,” said Hawes.

R-rated movies stay out of the classroom

BY ELIZABETH NOWROUZ Staff Writer Fairfax County Public Schools has set up a very strict procedure for videos in classrooms. World history teacher, Catherine Collins said, “You have to jump through hoops to get movies approved.”

There is a county-wide catalogue of approved videos teachers may choose to show. If the video they choose is not approved, there is a process they can go through to have it made acceptable. A form is available on the county website that must be filled out and submitted for consideration. This is the rule for most movies and videos.

However, in most cases “R” rated movies are not permitted for classsroom showing. If the teacher is adamant about its educational value, there is another procedure. In some cases students can be shown excerpts from the videos. Another form must be filled out, giving an extensive description of the portions to be shown and its correlation to the Standards of Learning. In addition,

there must be signed permission from each parent as well as an alernative activity for those students who, for whatever reason choose, not to view the video.

Since Collins cannot show historically relevant, R-rated films in her classes, she is in the process of creating an extra credit Pfieffer movie assignment. Her students can watch these films at home after getting their parent’s signature. They wil be expected to write about the points of view that the filmmakers took and the historical validities of these films.

Film Study is the only class that is an exception to the policy. This class is centered around watching and analyzing classic movies, but Film Study teachers have a wider range of movies from which they can choose.

Film Study teacher Alan Weintraut said, “there is a program of studies for film, just like any other subject, so I follow that. I teach aspects of film making and analysis, but that can be done with many films.”

Not only are there restrictions on movies, but on other materials, such as instructional videos and audio cassettes.

Janet Pfieffer, one of AHS's librarians, is in the process of helping to create a committee of teachers to review materials. She hopes that this will help create a more knowledgeable base for passing approval.

However, not all teachers follow these rules for every video they show. “There are some teachers who show movies without approval, but Annandale teachers are pretty good about it,” said Pfieffer.

The degree to which these rules are followed varies from school to school, but AHS follows the regulations relatively closely.

So while many of your teachers will continue showing videos to wind down the school year, don’t expect Rush Hour II or Legally Blonde. They will probably be at least loosely correllated to the class's curriculm. But hey, it's still a movie; there are few students who would choose to do work instead.

8 FEATURES

the

BY THE NUMBERS

1

worship reaches its peak

Idol

Number of contestants who

auditioned in wizard suits.

3 Number of finalists Simon has said need to shed a few pounds Vannessa, Joshua and Kimberly Caldwell

7 Number of bedrooms in the Idol House

8 Number of bathrooms in the Idol House

13 Number of times Randy says “DAWG” in an average episode

25% Percentage of finalists with Tattoos - Josh has his wedding date on his arm; Corey has a Chinese symbol for singing on his; Vannessa has cherries on her ankle

TOP SONGS SUNG AT THE AUDITIONS 1. “At Last” 2. “Ribbon in the Sky” 3. “The Star-Spangled Banner” 4. “Fallin” 5. “His Eye is on the Sparrow” Information compiled from People Magazine

BY CAROLINE FRIEDMAN

News Editor

Why do you think American Idol is so popular?

—Nicole Mott freshman

“It’s good seeing how everyday people, like us, can become famous.”

“It involves America.

You have the opportunity to make an input on the outcome.”

As she runs out the door to practice, junior Ashley Jones makes sure her VCR is set for the Wednesday night results show of American Idol. “If I miss it I feel really upset because Ruben is my favorite and I want to see how well he does,” said Jones. Virtually obsessed with both seasons of Idol, Jones said, “I loved Kelly Clarkson and this season I hope that Ruben [Studdard] wins.” The craze of American Idol which stemmed from Britain’s Pop Idol has filled living rooms ever since last summer’s first season. This sophomore season it is filling halls and classrooms of AHS with weekly gossip and predictions of who will get the boot, and who will hopefully come out on top.

On May 21, the second American Idol finale was held.

There were many performances from past contestants, recaps of bad embarrassing moments and the presentation of a plaque to Kelly Clarkson honoring her album going platinum.

There were video connections to the home towns of both of the final contestants, and a video skit of judges Simon Cowell and Pauls Abdul getting up close and personal. But after the commercialization, the cheesy skits, the top 12 being reunited again and even more endorsements for AT&T and Coca-Cola, the winner was announced. Ruben Studdard, the 24 year old from Birmingham, Alabama, was crowned the new American Idol, even though it was a close race. Studdard held 50.28% of the votes while Clay Aiken had 49.72%.

“I wanted Clay to win,” said junior Maryanna O’Neill, “but they were both great performers and I think they will both become famous.”

Jones is not the only person at AHS who has become enthralled with American Idol. Many students and faculty members tuned in regularly to see the contestants perform on Tuesday’s shows and then to see them dwindle down on Wednesday night’s results shows. Psychology teacher Scott Hambrick tuned in regularly this season because, “the people are very talented,” he said. Hambrick made an event out of the show. Every night he, his wife and eight other friends went to Glory Days, ordered chicken wings and watched the results come in.

So, why have the contestants on American Idol been able to capture the attention and the television screens of Americans? “I think that America likes to be able to be involved in the selection process,” said junior Janet Partlow, whose family purchased a “special dessert” for the Tuesday night performances. “They like that they can relate to the contestants because they are normal people.” Jones echoes this senti-

1. Who was the winner of the first American Idol a. Justin Guarini b. Kelly Clarkson c. Nikki McKibbin d. Ruben Stubbard

3. What other contestant made it to the final episode? a. Tamyra Gray b. A.J. Gil c. Justin Guarini d. Nikki McKibbin 4. Who was the youngest contestant among the 10 finalist? a. R.J. Helton

b. Tamyra Gray c. Kelly Clarkson d. A.J. Gil 5. In what state was the winner born? a. Texas b. Arkansas c. Oklohama d. Georgia 6. Who won the wild-card spot on the July 10 episode? a. Tamyra Gray b. R.J. Helton c. Christina Christian d. Justin Guarini 7. Which of the 10 final contestants from Idol One had a child? a. A.J. Gil b. Kelly Clarkson c. Nikki McKibbin d. Josh Gracin

KEY PLAYERS “People like to see other people succeed and fail, especially fail.”

—Jamie Foreman sophomore

—Ashley Jones junior

—Warren Dekker senior

SIMON Arrogant? Rude? Obnoxious? Simon Cowell prefers to think of himself as the blunt realist of the music industry. He only says what people are thinking, but would not have the guts to say. Cowell has turned himself into a powerful force within the pop industry. He produced up to 25 No. 1 singles and has benefited from the sales of more than 60 million albums. Simon and his arrogance entered mainstream America when he made his debut on American Idol One. PAULA As the sweetheart of American Idol, Paula adds a sense of kindness and encouragement to Idol contestants. Prior to Idol, many knew her as a singer and dancer. Her debut album, Forever Your Girl, sold 12 million copies and produced four No. 1 singles. However, the industry turned her off. During much of her youth, Abdul suffered from bulimia and she finally overcame it in 1994. Presently, she lives with her three Chihuahuas in her L.A. home.

“It’s fun to watch and make fun of the people who are bad.”

“People tune in to watch the humiliation. You can grow attached to the contestants.”

ment and said that it is such a popular show, “because it is fun and the people on the show are regular people and I think that it is cool they can get on the show and accomplish great things.”

The contestants are just that, regular people. And some of them have the mistakes of their past to blame for their departure from the show. Corey Clark, who was in the final 12, was disqualified from the show when producers found out that he had lied to them about being arrested. Clark was accused of assaulting his 15-year-old sister and then beating up four police officers. He was kicked off the show on April 1.

Finalist and favorite Frenchie Davis was booted from the show when producers discovered that five years ago she worked for an interactive adult website. Trenyce Cobbins however, was saved from disqualification because she informed producers of her criminal past which included an arrest on felony theft charges in Oct. 1999.

In coordination with the fascination of Idol, AHS created it’s own singing reality show this past winter, Annandale Idol, which performed various days after school and announced its winner, senior Anteneh Addisu during the winter pep rally.

The show was judged by faculty members Alan Weintraut, Gail Chmura, Kemba Ford and Officer Pickett.

“I thought it was really cool how the judges took on some of the personalities of the actual judges on the show, like Mr. Weintraut was like Simon,” said junior Coury Shadyac.

The question now remains whether the contestant of American Idol have true staying power in an industry that is constantly changing. Clarkson’s debut album “Thankful” has sold over 1.3 million copies in just five weeks and has topped many music charts. With the rising of a new star in Studdard, who was deemed “the world’s velvet teddy bear” by Gladys Knight, the credibility of the show will once again be tested.

And with the pint-sized version of the show, American Juniors, coming to FOX soon, the claws will truly come out as parents become even more involved. But there is still faith in the previous winners of the show. “The winners of both seasons proved that real people can accomplish great things,” said senior Hana Sarsour.

SEASON ONE AMERICAN IDOL QUIZ

2. Who is the most critical judge? a. Simon Cowell b. Paula Abdul c. Randy Jackson d. Christina Christian

—Katelyn Turner sophomore

ABLAST

TUES. MAY 27, 2003

RANDY Comfortable is the most accurate word that describes Randy Jackson. He is the laid-back and mellow judge who remains unaffected by all the drama that goes on the show.

Jackson has great experience in the music industry. He has worked with artists such as Whitney Houston and Mariah Carey as a producer and writer. He was initially reluctant to appear on American Idol, but he became convinced after viewing Pop Idol. Idol fans know him from his trademark phrases “dawg” and “dude.”

RYAN Secrest’s obsession with fashion has some viewers tuned in every week just to see what he will be wearing. His preoccupation with his looks stems to his teenage years when he wore glasses and was overweight. His physical transformation give him the needed confidence to pursue his career. In addition to hosting Idol, Secrest is also the host of one of L.A.’s hottest radio shows. He is also negotiating for his own syndicated TV show.

—Information compiled from People Magazine

8. Which contestant was rushed to the hospital as a precautionary measure for stress? a. Christina Christian b. Tamyra Gray c. Kimberly Locke d. R.J. Helton 9. At what venue was the winner of American Idol announced? a. AT&T Arena b. Madison Square Garden c. Coca Cola Center d. Kodak Theatre 10. Name the first song released by the winner. a. “A First Glance” b. “Never Let Go” c. “A Moment Like This” d. “Before I Met You” 11. What contestant was compared to The Wedding Singer?

a. Justin Guarini b. Nikki McKibbin c. Kelly Clarkson d. R.J. Helton 12. What is the name of the American Idol equivalent in Great Britain? a. Pop Idol b. British Idol c. Teen Idol d. English Idol Answers: 1. b 2. a 3. c 4. d 5. a 6. b 7. c 8. a 9. d. 10. c 11. b 12. a

www.enquirer.com/editions/2003/01/02/ tem_tueledequiz21.html

THE TOP FIVE Ruben Studdard, 25 Reminds You Of: Luther Vandross Role in the 12: The velvet teddy bear Most Memorable Moment: body-slamming Ryan Secrest Pre-Idol: The music-education major dropped out of Alabama A&M University and gospel groups.

Why Idol? “The only thing I’ve wanted to do my whole life was perform. And I’m doing it man.”

Clay Aiken, 24 Reminds You of: Elton John Role in the 12: Class president Most Memorable Moment: Belting out “Always and Forever” and shocking the judges Pre-Idol: Aiken performed in his high school choir and was attending the University of Charlotte as a special-education major.

Beauty is the in the Eye of the Beholder: “...I’m happy with myself. I’m not necessarily trying to win a beauty pageant here.”

Kimberly Locke, 25 Reminds You Of: Diana Ross Role in the 12: The mother Most Memorable Moment: Singing “Over the Rainbow” Why Idol? Performing with the flu at her high school’s Christmas concerts, “that’s when I knew this was where my heart was. I refused to not do the show.”

Joshua Gracin, 22 Reminds You Of: Garth Brooks Role in the 12: The jock Most Memorable Moment: Challenging Simon to do push-ups Why Idol? Gracin made his singing debut in 1993 performing Brooks’s “Standing Outside the Fire” at a school talent show. “That’s when I knew maybe I had something.”

Trenyce, 23 Reminds You of: Whitney Houston Role in the 12: The Diva Memorable Moment: Simon having to admit that Paula was right about her.

Surprise! After being cut from the Top 32, Trenyce was sent back home. A few weeks later she was chosen for the wild-card picks.

Pre-Idol: Pursuing a nursing degree at the University of Memphis, she dropped out in 2001. For the record, her real name is Lashundra Trenyce Cobbins.

—Information compiled from People Magazine

ARTS 9 Students expressions excites the

ABLAST

TUES. MAY 27, 2003

Q. AND A. WITH MARIKO CARRINGTON

Art teacher Joyce Weinstien selected art students from various levels to showcase their work.

Senior Mariko Carrington has excelled in art throughout her 4 years.

Bobby Gebremariam Sophomore Art 2 This sculpture took longer than one would expect. After I got the idea for my sculpture I then began working with the clay. The sculpture did not turn out exactly how I had imagined it, but it was close enough. I enjoyed working with the red clay because although it was challenging, it allowed me to create the image I wanted.

Once I had completed the general shape of the head, the most difficult part was defining the facial hair and the eyes.

Melissa Cox Senior Art 3 This portrait is of myself and my boyfriend [sophomore] Victor Groebner. I was pleased with the way it turned out because I feel it captures the important facial characteristics without displaying every single detail. I enjoy using my friends as my objects. I feel that because I know them so well, I can portray them easier on the canvas.

IB Art Students Mariko Carrington and Kathy Saupp worked together on the painting to the left during the past few months. The exquisite use of color captures the eyes of the viewer.

The 3-D aspect makes it more appealing upclose.

Susan Lanier Junior Art 3 Our photography class is currently covering Romanticism and Dramatic styles of photography. This photograph fits that style. However, I was trying to show that glamor also has a dark side. It’s not all it’s cracked up to be. I wish there was sharper detail in the subject’s face and hand. However, this is how the photograph was taken, and since I printed it so large, the small imperfections shine through. I would sell this print for about $15.

Hawar Huhammad Art 2 Junior Mesapatomian Art inspired my artwork. To complete this sculpture, I used red clay. It took me about five classes to completely finish my piece. If I had the chance to re-do this artwork, I would probably add more detail to it. As far as selling my sculpture, because it took me a while do create, I would probably sell it for a reasonable amount of money. Perhaps $50.

Q. When did you start taking art classes?

A. I began taking classes my first year at AHS. Q. What is your favorite media to work with?

A. I like all media, but I just love to sculpt in general.

Q. What has been your favorite piece of artwork that you have created and why?

A. “Hell in Cardboard” is my favorite piece. It came out exactly as I had imagined. I like the intense colors and textures.

Q. What inspires you?

A. Nothing specific, just my love for art.

Q. Do you have trouble finding a muse?

A. I usually look at other pieces to get ideas and then take aspects from certain artists and combine them to make something unique.

Q. Do you look up to any artist?

If so, which?

A. I look up to my art teacher, Mrs. Weinstien, but I don’t have a favorite artist.

Q. Did you have any reservations about taking IB Art? Why or why not?

A. No, because I knew the teacher and loved art a lot.

Q. What advice do you have for anyone who would like to take IB Art? A. I would advise any student pursuing IB Art to begin researching artist and visit museums to get to know art. It’s a great class and if you’re really interested in art, it’s great.

Q. What college or university will you be attending in the fall?

A. I am going to North Carolina Agricultural and Technology State University next year.

Q. Will you be majoring in art or taking any classes involved with art?

A. I will most likely take an art class, but I am not sure if I will major in it.

UPCOMING EVENTS Interested in IB Art? Take Carrington’s advice and visit some of these exhibits over the summer.

Now thru 7/20/03 The Faberge Menagerie and Origins of The Russian Avant Garde will be shown at Walters Art Museum in Baltimore, MD. Marsden Hartley - Artful Evening will be showcased at Phillips Collection in Washington, D.C. 6/7/03 until 7/20/03.

Silvia Grageda Senior IB Art My painting reveals the culture of the Bolivians and how the people live out of the city. I have completed this artwork by experimenting with a new media and brush strokes. The media is oil painting. It was difficult because I have never used this media before, but I liked it in the end. If I were to redo this artwork, I would not change a thing. I like the culture the piece has behind it. I take art class during two periods and it took me nearly 3 months to complete this piece.

--- to find more information about these and other art events and shows, go to www.ticketmaster.com The Smithsonian Art Museum holds numerous exhibits every year.

Upcoming exhibits include: A Brush with History, Eye Contact - Modern American Portrait Drawings and The Hirshhorn Collection.

--- go to www.si.edu/exibitions to find out more about the Smithsonian Art Museum

Ibrahim Omer Senior IB Art All my artwork is inspired by different historical Middle Eastern stories and tales. This one specifically, “Head of Hussain”, is inspired by the historical Islamic story of one of the most famous Islamic battles called Karbalaa that took place in modern Iraq. The Karbalaa Battle was a battle among two Muslim groups. Nothing differs between then, only slight religious differences. This battle created two groups, the Sunni and the Shiite. This conflict has never ended and is obviously evident in the daily news.

10 IN-DEPTH WHAT ARE YOU MOST LOOKING FORWARD TO DURING BEACH WEEK? “Being able to have tons of fun with all my best friends in an amazingly huge house.”

—Torrie Higgins senior

“Escaping parental supervision with friends.

Chillin’ on the beach with Top Gun Beach volleyball.”

—Andy Pelenberg senior

“Getting a tan along with hanging out with friends and going out.”

—Karlyn Hixson senior

“Having fun with friends for a whole week at the beach.”

—Bryan Williams senior

“Spending an entire week unsupervised with all my favorite people. It will really be the last time before college so I’m expecting big things!”

—Karen Steinbuechler senior

“Building sandcastles, long walks on the beach and candlelight dinners!”

—Katie Burton senior

the

ABLAST

TUES. MAY 27, 2003

TUES. MAY 27, 2003

Fun Under The Sun

IN-DEPTH 11

Seniors plan summer trip The light and dark sides of tanning SARAH SHERMAN Staff Writer

BY KATHY SAUPP Staff Writer

With prom out of the way and testing drawing to a close, seniors are beginning to turn their attention to upcoming events, such as graduation, all-night grad party, and above all, beach week.

Beach week, an unofficial senior activity involving groups of graduates pooling their money together to escape to the beach for a week, usually takes place the week following graduation. Most beach week beaches are close to home, with spots like the Outer Banks, Bethany, Virginia, and Myrtle being the most popular getaways. This year there are several groups of graduates going to areas of the Outer Banks, as alumni of AHS, they will be spread out across Kill Devil Hills, Kitty Hawk, Duck and Corona.

“Our group is going to Kill Devil Hills,” said senior Jen Stewart. “It’s a pretty good location, because it will be near the middle of the peninsula [of the Outer Banks]. It will be easy to drive to any other beach week house nearby, plus we’ll be close to all the good shops and restaurants.”

Stewart’s group, like several other groups, already has a house and their list of group members made. Many group plans have been set since December or early January. All that is left now is the tedious task of organizing who will bring what, along with making transportation arrangements. Food, beach necessities, and other supplies are usually divided up among the groups, so that everyone is responsible for something, and that everyone is making an effort to pitch in.

“It’s really hectic arranging everything,” said senior Torrie Higgins, a member of Stewart’s group. “Just making sure than everyone has paid was hard enough. We have 14 people in our group, so it won’t be as expensive for everyone individually. We’re going to make a menu that we can somewhat follow, so that we know what food and supplies we need to get. Also, we’ll be going out to lunch and dinner sometimes, so that will have us some money on food,” said Higgins.

Transportation is another key issue that many groups have yet to tackle.

Some groups have up to 20 members, and space will be limited for parking at

Clad in your newest summer attire, you saunter through the damp and resonant locker room at the community swim club. In flip flops that squeak on the tiled floor and rub between the toes of pale feet that are more accustomed to sneakers, the cacophony of the sun drenched deck of the pool comes into your range. Stepping in to the sun, you squint and breathe in the intermingled odors of suntan lotion and chlorine. Sweat beading your brow, you deposit your bags on the nearest lounger, eager to shed your clothing and relax in your suit. However, as you expose your skin to the sun for the first time, fellow sunbathers around you squeal, groping for their sunglasses to soften the harsh glare from your virginally pale skin.

“My eyes! My eyes!” they recoil in horror.

You wrap yourself in your beach towel to hide the embarrassment...

And then you wake up. What a nightmare!

Tomorrow you vow to commence your quest for coloration.

This nightmare may seem a little far fetched, but it is all too prevalent in the minds of young people today. Just take a look around school, and even now in May there are unbelievably brown girls walking the halls.

Indeed, the prospect of indoor tanning has become increasingly popular. Locally, teenagers flock to indoor tanning Meccas like Apollo Tanning in Sterling and Springfield as well as Hollywood Tanning in Springfield, Fairfax, and coming soon in Falls Church and Alexandria. It is places like these that teenagers empty their wallets in search of a more favorable skintone before they face the world in their bikinis and trunks during Memorial Day weekend. Senior Karen Steinbuechler said, “I tanned a lot before prom to get rid of tan lines. I would go tanning more often if it wasn’t so expensive.”

What exactly is tanning and why does the body do it? Tanning is the body’s response to the (Ultraviolet) UVA and UVB rays that come from the sun. UVA rays cause the body to tan, while UVB rays cause the skin to burn. According to Howstuffworks.com, when you get a tan, what is actually happening is that the melanocytes in your skin are producing melanin pigment in reaction to ultraviolet light in sunlight. Ultraviolet light stimulates melanin production. The pigment has the effect of absorbing the UV radiation in sunlight, so it protects the cells from UV damage. The production of this pigment causes the skin to darken. In people who are not Caucasian, there is already a constant level of melanin so the skin is less likely to be burned. So in effect, teens across America are working to increase their melanin production for the summer season. This cannot be done in one day, which is why tanning salons usually offer “tanning packages.”

Tanning salons like Hollywood Tan offer a conventional style of indoor tanning, sold in specials such as packages of 8 sessions from about $40 to $90, in different types of vertical booths. “I went once and its kind of addicting. I like the laying down tanning booths because the standing up ones are too tiring,” said senior Leigh Castaldo.

At Hollywood Tans, there are the least expensive HT42 models, which the literature says builds a healthy tan in about six 11 minute sessions (eight sessions cost $44).

The next step up is the HT54, which in five 10 minute sessions achieves the “Hollywood star” look using 10,000 watts of energy ($79, eight sessions). Eight minute long sessions (eight for $90) on the HT60 is the “Ultimate Tanning Experience at Hollywood Tans.”

Senior Kari Kraus enjoys the tanning experience and has gone to Hollywood Tans frequently. “I like going tanning. It’s good to even out short tans and shinguard

A survey was conducted on Friday, May 16, during R1 and W2 f lexes in addition to all lunches. Out of the 331 surveys returned, 100 of them were seniors.

“

tans,” said Kraus. “It’s also good to be darker for the summer so you don’t burn as easily.”

A different type of tanning technology is the UV-free version, or “spray tanning” and is fast catching on for those who have skin health in mind. This option is offered at Hollywood Tans and “gives a rich golden tan in just 6 seconds.” This type of tanning involves the out of season sunbather standing, usually nude, in a booth where a fine mist will be sprayed over their entire body, creating a color that lasts about 7 days. But how does it work?

This type of sunless tanning works with the top layers of the skin. The spray contains Dihydroxyacetone or DHA sugars that react with proteins in the skin to give it a golden color. Places like Hollywood Tans also add moisturizers to nourish the skin.

Those who choose the UV-free version of tanning do so for a reason—tanning also has a dark side, so to speak. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, the danger that tanners receive from indoor lamps is just as dangerous as outdoor sun exposure. This is because the tanning lamps emit both UVA and UVB rays. In fact, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention have stated that 700 people have visited the emergency room after visiting the tanning salon. Exposure to both types of rays can cause irritation or burning; or even worse, skin cancer.

In sunburn, the skin cells are damaged

by UVB rays. The body responds by increasing bloodflow to help repair the cells in the capillary bed (outer part) of the dermis (skin).

—Karen Steinbuechler This increased flow causes the red color, and senior the layer of damaged cells will be sensitive, sore, and the cells that cannot be repaired will eventually be shed in the form of flaking. In extreme cases, the skin is burned so extensively that it blisters, the same reaction that it has to coming into contact with a hot object. Even one severe blistering sunburn as a young person can cause melanoma, or skin cancer.

Skin cancer is something that many tanners have in the back of their minds. In fact, according to The Skin Cancer Foundation, UV radiation seems to be the cause of all three common skin cancers — basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma. Extreme exposure to the sun can cause these cancers because ultraviolet light can cause DNA mutations in the outer layer of the skin. In addition, prolonged exposure to the sun without protection can create oxygen molecules that damage DNA and other cells in the skin. Sunlight can also lead to immunosuppression of the body’s cancer defenses. Thus, leaving skin unprotected against the ultraviolet rays can aid in the growth of mutated, cancerous cells.

Fortunately, there are now adequate defenses available for sunbathers, long ago were the days of laying out with nothing but baby oil smeared across the epidermis.

Tanning does in fact damage the skin, yet that doesnt mean you need to cover all expanses of your flesh, regardless of the tone. Some tips for keeping the skin as safe from damaging rays while still possibly gaining a favorable hue are to avoid the sun for long periods of time between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m., when rays are the strongest. In addition, it is a good idea to use “broad spectrum” sunscreen; that is, one that blocks both UVA and UVB rays.

Whether you decide to don your hottest suit, tote your towel, and hit the beach, or if you drive around the corner to “fake and bake,” what is most important is that you realize exactly what ultraviolet rays do to your skin, and how to properly protect it while still achieving a reasonable tone. Just because tanning can be harmful in excess doesn’t mean you have to be a pallid pool-goer. However, for the sake of the skin, always use protection.

I tanned a lot before prom to get rid of tan lines. I would tan more if it wasn’t so expensive. I don’t really worry about the risks of skin cancer.

they would not usually visit at home.

Beach week is notorious among high school and college students for being a wild week of partying. Parents fear that one afternoon they could turn on the TV and see their son or daughter on a “Girls Gone Wild” commercial. Teenagers could leave with a body board and some cash, and come home with a tatoo and several piercings. Aside from these fears, parents’ only concerns are that their children use good judgement, and that they leave their beach house in good condition.

“I was concerned at first because the group plans kept changing,” said Anne Higgins, Torrie’s mother. “I didn’t know many of the kids in the group. But [Torrie] is taking extra care in organizing beach week.” Torrie has set up a contract with the company from which they are renting the house. Each group member has deposited an extra $30 in a safety deposit. If everything in the house is intact after beach week, each group member will get their money back. “That way, no one will have to pay extra if some-

the house. Carpooling and using heavy duty vehicles, like trucks and vans, will get the job done for most groups.

“I was worried because our group has a lot of people in it, and I wasn’t sure how we’re going to get down there,” said senior Ehab Awadallah, a member of another Outer Banks group. Their house in Nags Head that sleeps 15 people is only allowed five cars at the house. “I wanted to bring my car so we could cruise around the beach, but it’s only a twoseater. All of us are going to have to pull together and squeeze into a few cars.”

While many groups are confident that their beach week will be a safe, fun experience, many parents are concerned that their children will have too much of a good time while away. With rumors of drugs and alcohol use at the beach, parents and adults worry that their teenagers will be exposed to all sorts of illegal activity. Not only will most beach week groups be unsupervised, but most houses are also coed. A majority of the graduates going will be 18, so many will have access to clubs and other places that

Are you planning on going to “Beach Week” this year?

Which beach are you going to?

Outer Banks, NC

15% No 40%

Yes 60%

13% 8%

Other

42%

1. Virginia Beach, VA - 208 miles 2. Duck, NC - 272 miles 3. Kitty Hawk, NC - 284 miles 4. Kill Devil Hills, NC - 288 miles 5. Nags Head, NC - 292 miles COURTESY OF THE WASHINGTON POST

thing gets broken.” said Higgins.

Seniors have already begun to shop for new swimsuits and buy food for the trip, which will probably take place the week of June 21-28 (the first full week after graduation). After walking the stage on June 17 at Constitution Hall and partying all night at South Run Rec center, seniors will get a short break before embarking on what many believe will be one of the best weeks of their lives.

Will there be any parental supervision at “Beach Week”?

Yes 15%

Ocean City, MD Virginia Beach, VA

22%

Driving Distances from Washington

Myrtle Beach, SC

No 85%

Tanning Hot Spots Gold’s Gym Location: 6940 Bradlick Shopping Center, Annandale Phone: 703-941-4653 Price: $5 per 20 minute tanning session for members only Quality: Gold’s Gym offers two tanning beds per facility. They do not provide eye protection or lotions.

Hollywood Tans Location: Fair City Mall 9650 Main Street, Fairfax Phone: 703-503-3456 Price: Prices vary per type of tanning bed.

Quality: Hollywood Tans offers vertical tanning booths such as the HT60, which boasts a golden tan in eight minutes.

Sun Splash Location: Newgat Center14104 Lee Highway, Centreville Phone: 703-266-1155 Price: Unlimited tanning with a $26.88 monthly membership Quality: Sun Splash offers a cutting edge beds such as the Matrix L33 and Orbit Onyx. The Mystic Tan, Sun Splash’s most popular tanning option, is a machine-powered spray tanner that provides a full-body tan in under 60 seconds.

Suntan Shop Location: 2254 Hunters Woods Plaza, Reston Phone: 703476-1113 Price: Prices vary based on monthly packages Quality: Suntan Shop opened in 1983 and has conventional as well as stand-up VHR tanning beds.

Alternative plans for ‘Beach Week’ For some, senior year will not be complete without a full week at the beach with friends. However, some obstacles conflict with potential plans.

BY LAUREN STERLACCI Staff Writer It’s not hard to imagine what really goes on at beach week and why some parents aren’t allowing their kids to take part in the festivities. Visions of their teenagers involved in sex, drugs, alcohol, and getting arrested are the pivotal reasons parents are opting not to let their child attend the yearly senior tradition that is “beach week.” “When I asked my parents about going to beach week, they immediately said no calling it a drunken orgy and an excuse to get drunk and have sex,” said senior Caitlin Mckinney.

One hundred seniors were surveyed and asked whether they would be in attendance for beach week, and 60% of them responded yes. Of the one hundred students surveyed, 85% of them said their living arrangements would be of co-ed and 84% also said that there would be no parents present in the house. Parents are naive if they think there aren’t co-ed housing or parents present with those kinds of numbers.

For most students who will be attending beach week, that means three things, (1) being with friends at the beach (2) having total freedom for a week and (3) taking part in some not-so school related activities.

For some, the cost of beach week is a little too much too spend after all the endless senior dues— yearbook, senior tee-shirt, prom, all-night grad ticket, senior dues, graduation, senior pictures, graduation announcements. “I’ve already been to beach

week and I need money for college next year. I’m not trying to get in trouble again because last year someone got arrested and we ran out of food. I left with over $200 and came back with $2.77,” said senior Liz Tran.

Multiple students will be traveling, enjoying the relaxation time, working, getting a job, and while a big percentage of students are going to the beach with friends, many are attending with their families.

For many students, beach week wasn’t a high priority on their summer to-do list. “There’s a big group of us going to Germany for two weeks for Chorus as part of an exchange program,” said seniors Courtney Thieberger. Lauren Simmons and Alex Mott will be joining Thieberger on the Germany trip. “Were so excited to be getting this opportunity to go out of the country and this will be a better experience than any trip to the beach would have been,” said Mott.

Other students are using their hobbies and interests as a way of using their newfound time. “I’m traveling a lot this summer and working on a lot of music with my band,” said senior Bobby Morganthaler. “As soon as school lets out I will have a lot more time to work along with my band mates and really focus on our music.”

“I’m really looking forward to spending quality time with all my fellow senior graduates after a long and strenuous year,” said senior Michala Miller. “A week at the beach with all my best friends, is the best thing I could ask for right after these four years.”

Senior Cailin Yaroch sports an American Eagle bathing suit as she basks in the sun.

Yaroch, like many skin-conscious teens, prefers self-bronzers over tanning beds.

“Over the summer, I lifeguard at Cameron Run. I usually get a pretty good tan on the job, so I never have to waste money at tanning salons.”

HANA NGUYEN

THE RADIATING FACTS Skin Cancer The National Cancer Institute defines skin cancer as “a disease in which cancer cells [malignant] are found in the outer layer of the skin.”

Nonmelanoma—Basel cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma are the two most common form of skin cancer.

The cure rate for these two cancers is 95% if detected and treated early.

Melanoma—This is the most serious form of skin cancer. It can develop from or near a mole and is most frequently found on the upper back and neck.

Melanoma can suddenly appear without warning.

The Basic Facts —Skin cancer is the most commonly occurring cancer in the United States —Skin cancer accounts for about 9,200 deaths per year in the United States —90% of skin cancer can be attributed to the sun —Most malignant melanomas occur in individuals between 25 and 29 years of age WWW.SUNSAFETY.ORG

SUN SAFETY Sunburn Sunburn is characterized as overexposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun.

In a firstdegree burn, symptoms include redness, sensitivity, and pain. Extra exposure to the sun can lead to swelling and blistering of a second-degree burn.

Continual and frequent exposure to the sun can cause long-term damage such as premature aging, wrinkling, and skin cancer.

Preventing Sunburn Sunburn can be avoided by staying out of the sun, particularly between the hours of 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. and in midsummer. Sunscreens and sunblocks protect by filtering out the UV rays that cause sunburn. But, do not confuse sunscreens with oils or lotions that actually intensify the sun’s rays. A sunscreen of at least SPF 15 is recommended. A higher SPF of 45 is often considered the best protection.

However, if you do not reapply after one or two hours, a sunscreen of SPF 45 gives the same protection of a sunscreen with SPF 15.

Curing Sunburn Sunburn is usually uncomfortable for 24 to 48 hours. The best treatment for sunburn is to soak the affected skin in cold war or apply a cold compress to reduce swelling. Taking an aspirin is often recommended to reduce inflammation.

WWW.PARKNICOLLETCLINIC.COM/HEALTHINFO

12 PEOPLE

the

ABLAST

TUES. MAY 27, 2003

Lights, camera, teach

What do you want for your birthday?

“I really want a trip to St. Martin with my friend and my mom for my birthday because I want a good tan.”

—Bristina Strzelecki freshman

“My current purse is sort of old, so I want a new Fendi bag for my birthday.”

—Gilda Villela junior

“I would like a new Corvette because my car is probably going to die at any moment now.”

—Paul Durning senior

“The A-Blast comes out on my birthday, marking the start of my tyrannical reign as co-editor in chief for the rest of next year.”

—Abby Segall junior

“I want a black BMW so my friend Sarah and I can go riding together.”

—Binta Rogers senior

CELEBRITY BIRTHDAYS

BY CHRIS SOPHER Journalism I student A day on the set is a normal routine for AHS English teacher Bill Brock. Both a teacher and an actor, Brock has captured the curiosity and interest of many students with his double-career.

Starring in a number of commercials, television shows and movies, Brock furthers his acting career in his spare time.

His acting career started early in college at Westfield State College in Westfield Massachusetts, where he played a small part in Hotel Baltimore. “I had three lines and I was scared to death,” said Brock. Yet once he took a step towards acting, the world of drama came to him naturally. English teacher Bill Brock teaches a student the essentials of writing and citing papers.

Why did he enter the world of act- Brock is also a notable actor who has made appearances in movies. ing? “The girls were in drama,” ing task of starring in films, Brock also maintains a steady he said. teaching career. His students often ask him if he would Since graduating, Brock has continued displaying his leave teaching for a lead acting role in a large production. love for acting in the form of commercials, stage plays, “I’d take the role, sure, and pursue others, but I know I’d television shows and small parts in movies such as Conmiss teaching,” said Brock. Not that he would abandon tender andannibal. His acting skills were rewarded when teaching after a role in a film.

Brock was nominated for a WATCH (Washington Area He is currently involved in Misery, a play based on the Theatre ) Award, for his performance in I Hate Hamlet, a Stephen King novel, and How I Learned To Drive, in which comedy performed at Alexandria Theatre. Brock has emhe has the lead role. ployed an agent in D.C. as well as in Richmond, who How does his acting career affect his teaching? “Ackeeps watch for potential job opportunities.

Brock has also done ad spots for Kings Dominion, Channel 8 news and several other businesses. “The Kings Dominion ads were fun,” said Brock, “I got to spend the day riding rides and got paid well for it.” On the other hand, he says, the world of acting can be quit antagonizing for anyone. “It can be real work sometimes. It’s not easy, and not Brock everyone can [act].”

While being on the set and acting is enjoyable, Brock says career actors always have to worry about getting —Bill Brock another job. “When you’re shooting an ad, it’s like, ‘Hey, English teacher this is great, now on to the next job.’ Acting is worthwhile, but you are never ensured a steady flow of acting offers. If all you do is act, you’re constantly in search of tors make really good teachers—they can capture an auwork,” said Brock. “I haven’t met many people who have dience and their attention, and in the classroom, my ausurvived on acting alone.” dience is my students,” said Brock. Most of Brock’s stuBrock and challenges definitely go together. “It’s the dents are captivated by him, and say he is among their challenge of becoming somebody different. It’s like, ‘Wow! favorite teachers, often citing his sense of humor and acI have to go do this now; I have to perform,’” said Brock. tive teaching style.

“You’ve got to know your stuff when you go out there, When asked if he had any advice for aspiring actors, you’ve just go to go do it.” After all, self-confidence is key Brock replied; “Take the work seriously, don’t get lazy, in acting. and save the drama for the stage. My best advice? Shutup While remaining headstrong in the often aggravatandact.”

SAMAN HUSSAIN

HAPPY BIRTHDAY

Who am I?

“

A ctors make really good teachersthey can capture an audience and their attention, and in the classroom my audience is my students.

• I have been teaching English at AHS for 16 years. I taught at Thomas Jefferson High School before coming here.

• I got my bachelors in English from George Mason University and later did my Masters in Educational Administration.

• I like to play golf, I like what I do [teaching], and I like young people.

• I dislike bigotry and ignorance.

• I am married and have no children.

• My hobbies mostly include playing golf • My pet peeve is people who are not punctual.

• My motto in life is ”Nothing great was ever achieved without enthusiasm.”

• My favorite foods are lobster and chocolate.

• My favorite book in Huckleberry Finn

by Mark Twain.

If you think you know the answer, drop by your guess at Room 265A, and receive a signature The A-Blast prize.

Last Issue’s Who Am I? • Before I came to AHS I worked at Centerville High School running an Internet lab for students.

• My motto in life is “Carpe Diem.”

Last issue’s Who Am I ? was Career Center supervisor Robin Roth.

Star freshman takes on tasks

Anna Kournikova

May 28 John Fogerty, 58 28 Rudolph Giuliani, 59 29 John F. Kennedy 30 Wynonna Judd, 39 31 Walt Whitman 31 Brooke Shields, 38 June 1 Marilyn Monroe 1 Alanis Morissette, 29 1 Morgan Freeman, 66 3 Jefferson Davis

A wellrounded student versed in many languages

In a recent interview conducted by Laura Hollowell with freshman Suzanne van der Eijk, many questions were answered about her experiences both in and out of school.

Q: What sports are you involved in at AHS and outside of school?

I play field hockey and lacrosse at AHS, and I was also the freshman boys basketball manager.

Outside of school I like to play tennis and I also swim. van der Eijk Q: What are some of your extra curricular activities?

Being secretary of my class, playing

piano, and being an acolyte at church.

Q: What languages do you speak?

I am fluent in Dutch and English and I’m taking Spanish at school. I know many words and phrases in German, French, Italian, Japanese, and sign language.

Q: How long have you spoken these languages and how did you learn them?

I have spoken Dutch and English ever since I learned to talk. My parents are both from Holland, so it came from them talking to me in both languages.

I started speaking Spanish in eighth grade.

Q: What langauge will you take in college; also, what do you think is the importance of being multilingual?

I plan on taking Spanish in College.

It’s very important to know different languages because it helps you com-

4 Noah Wyle, 31 4 Angelina Jolie, 28 5 Mark Wahlberg, 32 5 Brian McKnight, 34 7 Anna Kournikova, 22 8 Barbara Bush, 78 9 Johnny Depp, 40 10 Shane West, 25

Shane West

(703) 813-6262 Bradlick Shopping Center

$10.99

$17.99

$13.99

1 Large 3 Topping

2 Large 2 Topping

1 Large 1 Topping w/ Side Order

expires 6/10/03

expires 6/10/ 03

expires 6/10/03

municate with people. It’s important while living in America since there is so much diversity.

Q: What is your current schedule?

Pre IB History, Pre IB/IGCSE English, Pre IB/ IGCSE Biology, Pre IB/ IGCSE Geometry, Spanish II, Art I, PE/Health Q: What is your current GPA? 3.86 Q: Have you ever traveled abroad? Or do you plan to?

I have been to Holland, Germany, and Belgium. I love to travel and I plan on traveling more in the future.

Q: What is your source of inspiration?

I love places and languages. It’s like learning in a fun way. Traveling is such a delight and I love learning different parts and phrases of languages in the countries I visit or from

the people I meet.

Q: How do you manage your time?

I have a few key thoughts that help me; “Don’t do later what you can do now,” “If you need help don’t be afraid to ask questions,” “Be courteous to those who may need your help.”

Q: What do you do in your free time?

One of my favorite things to do is play the piano. Seeing it noiseless against the wall always intrigues me to pump out some music, and I love hanging out with my friends.

Q: What are your future plans?

I love talking and helping people. I need to be moving, and I can’t do something over and over again without change. I plan to go to a prestigious college and hopefully pursue my dreams of becoming an actress.

the

ABLAST

TUE. MAY 27, 2003

PHOTO 13

Bring

Where and why do y ou w ork?

in the

CHAE-WHA PARK

Big Buck$

Senior Mike Peyton takes a food order at his work place, Smith and Clarkson’s, a deli located in the Ravensworth Plaza, from a lunch customer who looks over the menu. “I enjoy working at Smith and Clarkson’s because the hours are great, the pay is decent and the managers are relaxed,” said Peyton. He previously worked at Safeway for two years and Vinnie’s Restaurant before being employed in his current job. “I work because I need money to pay for my outrageous car insurance bill and lots of goodies.”

Although some AHS students have been yearly employed in a part time job, others are opting to work now because summer vacation draws near.

“I work at Starbucks right now. I work because there’d be no cash flow any other way.

Plus, I need money in college, so I gotta save up.”

—Jeannine Frank senior

“I work at Whole Foods Market for fun with all of my friends. It’s just to kill time.”

—Shamso Wardere senior

“I work at Damon’s Restaurant.

I’m working this summer because I need money for a lot of things, and extra money wouldn’t hurt. ” —Vanessa Papee

CHAE-WHA PARK

MORGAN MCEVILLY

senior

Senior Liz Tran goes beyond the call of duty and gets a balloon for the children of a family dining at her restaurant, TGI Fridays. With a bright smile constantly on her face, Tran is an easy-going, friendly and attentive waitress. “I love being a waitress because I meet amazing people. I’ve been a lifeguard and worked at American Eagle, and this is by far the best job,” said Tran. Tran will be attending the University of Virginia this fall.

“Hopefully by working, I’ll be able to buy a laptop and my books for college by the end of the summer.”

“I’m working as a lifeguard at the North Springfield Community Pool to get money, and I’m always there anyways. ”

First-time lifeguard Junior Erica Robey works at a waterpark, Cameron Run. For now, Robey only works on weekends from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., but she will pick up more hours in the summertime. Due to the recent unpleasant weather, fun-seeking swimmers have not come to the park yet. Robey said that she likes her job because it lets her be outdoors. But the downfalls are when “it’s nasty outside and if [she has] to save people.”

Another plus to her job is that she works with other AHS students, sophomores Kelsey Prentice, Samantha Muchmore and senior Cailin Yaroch.

—Zach Sykes sophomore

“I work at Finish Line [shoe store].

I’m saving up for expenses for senior year and for trips during the summer.”

—Melissa Sielaty

CHAE-WHA PARK

junior

MORGAN MCEVILLY

Senior Sean Rowley does various jobs at Ravensworth’s Safeway, one of which is a bagger. Rowley helps an elderly grocery shopper carry her bags. But some of the downfalls of the job are that “everyone is your boss and you have to deal with a lot of people that treat you like trash,” said Rowley. “The pay sucks, and my head manager needs some anger-management. It sucks but it pays for gas, I guess. Besides, you have to start somewhere.”

Corrections —In the November 13 issue of The ABlast, Senior Cecilia Mallory was misquoted. She had looked over to Homecoming King Loren Sexton, who had said,“I’ve waited four years for this!”

—In the May 6 issue of The A-Blast, Senior Cecilia Mallory was said to be the future wife of Weekends Editor Cameron Kynes. This will be determined at the class of 2003’s 20th year

Junior Effie Drosos arranges plants at her workplace, Meadows Farms, located on Little River Turnpike. Drosos works on Mondays, Thursdays, Fridays and weekends. As a cashier, she likes the relaxed atmosphere that makes it seem like she’s “not even working.” Drosos plans on continuing to work in the summer because it will give her “something to do.”

anniversary.

Since freshman year, senior Liz Balun has been working at her job, Spoke’s, etc., a bicycle shop in Old Alexandria. Balun works in the customer service department, which deals with tuning up or fixing bicycles. Due to a full weekday schedule, she only works on Saturdays. Like most working people will say, the downfalls of the job “are the rude customers.” But personally, Balun is able to enjoy her job because she gets to see her boyfriend and co-worker Alex Manente. Balun works because she needs the spending money.

Like many students, her parents do not support her with an allowance. Therefore, she obtained this job through her dad, who also works within the Spoke’s, etc. company.

CHAE-WHA PARK

Notice —This will be senior Chae-Wha Park’s last photo page. The next and last issue of The A-Blast will be produced by the new 2003-2004 staff. Now juniors Morgan McEvilly and Sean Sullivan will replace Park as the new Photo Editors.

14 CULTURES

the

ABLAST

TUES. MAY 27, 2003

AIR FARE FROM WASHINGTON D.C. Japan: Roundtrip cost: $1295, Travel time:16 hours, 10 minutes Palestine: Roundtrip cost: $1335 Travel time:14 hours, 5 minutes Jordan: Roundtrip cost: $2781 Travel time: 14 hours, 45 minutes Saudi Arabia: Roundtrip cost: $1532 Travel time: 18 hours, 55 minutes

Students are packing their bags and getting ready to visit their home countries. Here are a few students who shared their summer plans

Jamaica: Roundtrip cost: $642 Travel time: 5 hours, 34 minutes Bolivia: Roundtrip cost:$1071 Travel time:11 hours, 15 minutes

12

Turkey: Roundtrip cost: $1026 Travel time: 14 hours,15 minutes

9 3 511 2

4

Pakistan: Roundtrip cost: $1600 Travel time: 27hours, 50 minutes

8

Brazil: Roundtrip cost: $920 Travel time: 7 hours, 9 minutes

6

10 13

2

1

Syria: Roundtrip cost: $1707 Travel time: 18 hours, 50 minutes

7

1. Brazil Espinoza is ready to soak up the sun and enjoy the view during a month long vacation in Brazil, “I’m going to Rio de Janeiro and going to the nude beaches, like Copacabana and Pepino.”

Espinoza is also planning to see Rio from the top of Mount Corcovado, and visit family. This is Espinoza’s first time Danny Espinoza visiting Brazil. senior

These ticket prices are based on roundtrips from July1-August1, 2003 from www.expedia.com.

Avoid wearing clothing, jewelry, or other accessories that contain metal when traveling •shoes with steel tips, heels, buckles, or shanks •clothing with metal buttons, snaps, or studs •belt buckles

Said Williams junior

Avoid placing metal items in pockets •keys, loose change, lighters •mobile phones, pagers, and personal data assistants Avoid bringing prohibited items such as •box cutters •ice picks •knives •meat cleavers •razor-type blades •scissors •drills •pliers •mace or pepper spray •lighter fluid •spray paint •spillable batteries Arrive at least two hours before your flight is scheduled to take off.

Information taken from www.tsatraveltips.us

Noor Khazali senior

Williams is going to several countries this summer. “I’m going to Saudi Arabia for a pilgrammage, and to visit my father’s property.” Williams is also going to visit Somalia. He admits he is nervous because of the current situation in Somaila, “I’m nervous because of the civil war that’s going on there.”

Khalid AbulHawa junior

5. Jordan

6. Japan Okasaki will be visiting Japan this summer with his family. “I’m going to vist my family, and go sight seeing.”

This will be Okasaki’s first trip to Japan. “I’m excited and nervous because I’ve never been there. I expect it to be fun.”

Tyler Okasaki freshman

8. Ghana

Kenan Marks senior

11. Syria

HOW TO GET A PASSPORT 1. Obtain a certified copy of your bith certicifate 2. Have two passport pictures made at a local merchant 3. Download passport application from State Department website: www.state.gov 4. Print copy of application in Adobe format: www.travel.state.gov/ download_application.html

Omar Nachawati junior

Abul-Hawa is going back to Palestine, where he lived from 1995 to 1996. “I’m going to Jerusalem mainly to visit my family, and visit the Alaqsa mosque,” said Abul-Hawa. Despite the conflict in the Middle East, Abul-Hawa is adamant about going, “I’m not afraid of the danger, because it’s an everyday thing in Palestine. You just deal with it.”

“Since I’ve already visited most of the tourist attractions in my past visits, I’m going to focus on family this time,” said Khazali. Khazali admits though that she will revisit the Migdo Temple, “Even though I’ve been there before I am planning to go again, it’s breathtaking.” The Migdo Temple is the largest bronze and iron temple known to man.

Hanson-Takyi is visiting Ghana for a month for the first time this summer.

“I’m looking forward to the trip because I actually like long plane trips,” said Hanson-Takyi, “I’m excited because I’m going to see my grandmother, aunts, and cousins.” HansonTakyi also plans on enjoying the beach.

Julia Hanson- “I’m going to go to the beach and look Takyi for some gold.” Ghana is the world’s sophomore second largest producer of gold.

Nachawati is visiting Syria this summer for the third time. “I’m excited about going because I haven’t see my uncle and cousins for a long time,” said Nachawati. He also plans on going sight-seeing while he’s there, including visiting the castle Krak des Chevaliers, and going to Ras al-Basseet, the black sand beach that has the mountains of Turkey as a backdrop.

4. Jamaica

3. Palestine

2. Saudi Arabia, Somalia

TRAVEL TIPS

Julio Sanchez sophomore

Larnice Surles sophomore

Larnice Surles is going to Jamaica this summer. She has been there three times before, and found the heat to be the most difficult part of her stay.

“I expect it to be very hot, and I look forward to spending time at the beach.” Surles also is looking forward to spending time in her granmother’s villa, and catching up with her.

Jorge Arias senior

Arias is making a trip to Bolivia this summer, something he has done many times before. “I’m going to visit my family, and have fun before I go to college,” said Arias. He is expecting to travel to different cities within Brazil.

“I’m going to La Paz to visit ruins of a Native American city known as Tihuanaco.”

7. Bolivia

9. Turkey

10. Pakistan

Marks is going to Turkey this summer, a trip he makes almost every summer.

“I’m going to visit family and friends, and take a swim in the Mediteranean,” said Marks. He admits he is a bit anxious about traveling because of the recent war, “I’m nervous because Turkey is near Iraq.” Marks will stay in Turkey for a month.

Khan arrived in the United States four years ago, and is now returning to Pakistan to complete college. This will be his first trip back to his home country since he came here. “I’m going to Pakistan this summer to start college and I’m going to study pharmacy. I’m sad because I’m going to miss my friends here, but I’m happy to be going back.”

Asad Khan senior

12. Italy

13. India

Sanchez will be going to Italy for a week this summer. He’s looking forward to the Italian cooking of his grandmother.

“I’m looking forward to visiting my grandmother and eating her good Italian food. I’m also planning to go sightseeing.” This will be Sanchez’s second trip to Italy; he first went there when he was eight.

Chhikara travels around the world because of her mother’s position as a diplomat. This summer she is taking a break and heading home, “I’m looking forward to visiting New Dheli, I haven’t been there for a year. I’m planning on visiting the Taj Mahal and hanging out with family and friends.”

Eshani Chhikara senior

Physicals ALL ATHLETES PARTICIPATING IN SPORTS FOR THE 2003-2004 SCHOOL YEAR

5. Complete application carefully 6. Go to nearest designated government location to pay and mail 7. Mail to address on application; address differes based on where you live 8. Wait 4-6 weeeks, depending on time of year •Total fee for citizen under the age of 16: $70 •Total fee for citizen 16+: $85

Date: Tuesday, June 10, 2003 Time: 5:30 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.

Payment: Cash or check made out to AHS Athletic Boosters Cost: $40.00 Where: Main Gym You must bring your form to the physical completely filled out and signed by your parent or guardian.

SPORTS XTRA 15

the

ABLAST

TUES. MAY 27, 2003

Local fishing hot spots Lake Brittle Location: Winchester, Virginia, right off of Interstate 66 Common species of fish: Largemouth bass, Bluegill, Redear Sunfish, Black Crappie, Channel Catfish.

Burke Lake Location: Burke, Virginia Common species of fish: Largemouth Bass, Muskellunge, Walleye, Channel Catfish, Bluegill, Black Crappie, White and Yellow Perch, Redear Sunfish, Blue Catfish

Lake Arrowhead Location: Page County, Virginia, near Luray Common species of fish: Largemouth Bass, Walleye, Northern Pike, Bluegill, Crappie, Redear Sunfish, Channel Catfish Maximum Depth: 43 feet

Chesapeake Bay Location: Eastern Virginia Common species of Fish: bass, catfish, flounder, sailfish, tarpon, walleye, bonefish, crappie, marlin, pickerel, salmon, trout

PHOTO BY PAUL GLEASON

James River

Catch the reel sport of fishing

BY KYLE SMEALLIE Staff writer Junior Charlie Dickinson casts his line far into the Chesapeake Bay. He patiently waits in his boat for the unsuspecting fish to mistake the worm as a floating meal.

There is a tug on the line, and suddenly the bobber dives under water. Dickinson yanks the line upwards and reels in his catch, a large blue fish. Dickinson is a unique student who participates in the leisurely and distinct sport of fishing.

Practicing the sport since he could walk, Dickinson strives to fish every week of the summer. He mainly fishes in the Chesapeake Bay, and is looking forward to the

summer so he can use his new Chaos rod to catch the various stripers, spots, and croakers synonymous with this popular location.

This junior views the sports as more of a leisure activity than a serious endeavor.

"Fishing is fun and it doesn't tired me out, but catching a fish gives me a great feeling of accomplishment," said Dickinson.

Dickinson has a myriad of memorable fishing stories, as is with any experienced fisher. His favorite occurred while fishing on the Chesapeake.

Dickinson and his friend "Tom" (ironically similar to Tom Sawyer) had just entered a patch of breaking fish, or a group of fish jumping out of the water. So, this

group of fishermen were catching blue fish with almost every cast when Tom snagged a "decent" sized fish. Dickinson went to retrieve his net in which to place the fish, but Tom decided to throw the fish on to the deck of his 17 foot Boston Whaler.

"All of the sudden, I felt something hit my heel. I looked down and there was the treble hook [a three pronged hook] inside my ankle," said Dickinson. The fish had jumped and bit the young man in the heel, causing two of the three hooks to stick into his ankle, while the third was still in the struggling fish's mouth.

Dickinson was recommended to go to the hospital, but decided against it. Instead, he had his friend clip away at the

hooks with until they were easy to enough to pull out of him.

The sport of fishing represents the antithesis of the modern stereotypic youth activity. There are no televisions, computers, DVD, MP3, or CD players on the typical boat or canoe. Instead, fishers are taught patience, the laws of nature (and in Dickinson's case, courage) while waiting in silence for the unwary crappie, trout, or salmon.

Fishing evokes images of Huckleberry Finn, with hat tipped down and straw in mouth, and a more innocent time. For contemporary high school fishers, their mannerisms and stories are a subtle reminder of a time past.

Joe Dishun’s just crazy about fishin’

BY EVAN ROWLAND Staff Writer Ever since he was very young, his father would drive him to a fishing spot and teach him the tricks of fly-fishing. Biology teacher Joseph Dishun is an avid fly-fisherman who enjoys its “relaxing” and “participational” aspects. “I like being able to participate in nature, not just being an observer.”

According to Dishun, the difference between fly-fishing and castfishing is that a fly-fisherman has to make more adjustments to their tackle. There are two main kinds of tackle: a dry fly, which floats on the water, and a wet fly also known as a nymph, which sinks in the water. Dishun pre-

fers to use dry flies because they are “more fun to fish with.”

For those that say fishing is an inactive, boring sport, Dishun said that is depends on the kind of fishing. “If you’re sitting on a boat and staring at a bobber, then of course [fishing can be boring]. I’m walking upstream the entire time while I’m fishing, and sometimes I will climb over boulders to get to my spot,” said Dishun. “I can’t sit still.”

Fishing may require a participant to wade in the water. Depending on how fast the water is, Dishun will wade “as high as necessary” to fish. His favorite spots are “kept secret,” but his, most memorable spot was Rock Creek, in Montana. “I’ve gone fishing in Montana with history teacher John York twice, and this summer I will be joining him

for a third time.” Dishun has also fished with fellow science teacher Tom Pratuch, although Dishun prefers to fish independently. The biggest fish Dishun has caught was a 24 inch Brown Trout on a dry fly, which he caught on one of his trips to Montana.

“Just before sunset is the best time to fish,” said Dishun. If the “conditions are good,” Dishun will stay out fishing until the sky is near opaque. “I like to make the best of my time when I’m out on a fishing trip,” said Dishun. Dishun only keeps the fish he catches if he is going to eat them fresh, he prefers not to freeze them, otherwise he lets them go.

There are a certain few steps that Dishun always begins with when he arrives at a fishing spot. The first and

most important step that he takes is to “read the water.” “Reading the water is the key [to being able to fish],” said Dishun. The second step that he takes is to develop a plan of how to “approach a fish,” and “present the fly.” According to Dishun, 80 percent of fishing is knowing how to present the fly.

Third, Dishun decides what type of fly is appropriate for the conditions.

“Fly-fishing requires a lot of patience and mental concentration, but it can teach you a lot, such as recognizing details, and being observant,” said Dishun. “Fishing can be really exciting, it just depends mainly on how you were introduced to it.”

Dishun still returns to a lot of the same places that he went to with his father when he just began to fish as a young boy.

With so many fish in the sea, which kinds are the best to catch?

Trout Q: Where are trout most commonly found?

A: Trout tend to live in colder waters, such as mountain streams. The Brown trout though can tolerate warmer waters than other kinds of trout.

Q: How many kinds of trout are there?

A: There are three main species of trout Rainbow, Brown, and Brook. Rainbow trout are the most common of the species.

Q: Where is the nearest places to catch trout?

A: Trout tend to live in mountain regions, and are found mainly in the Shanndoah Valley, and the Blue Ridge Mountains.

Q: What is the best way to catch trout?

A: When catching any fish you have to compensate for the fish’s stereotypical behavior, the best bait, and how to cast your line and reel it in.

Trout are easily “spooked,” and need to be given as much distance as possible. To do this you should cast your line as far as possible and be as still as possible. During the spring worm fishing is slightly more effective, especially after rain, but during other times of the year, mainly the summer, flies are normally the best bait. Once hooked try not to let the fish run with it(swim away). They tend to flee into shallow grassy areas, which will tangle the line.

Salmon

Bass

Q: Where are Salmon most commonly found?

A: Salmon generally live in estuaries. They can be found up stream though during their spawning season.

Q: How many kinds of Salmon are there?

A: Unlike trout, which has only three kinds of species, there are 9 different kinds of Salmon. The Pink, Sockeye, Chum, Coho, Chinook, Steelhead, Cutthroat, Coastal Cutthroat.

Q: Where is the nearest place to catch Salmon?

A: Unfortunately to catch Salmon you must go quite a ways. They are normally found in the Northwest in the ocean and in rivers, such as the Colombia.

Q: What’s the best way to catch Salmon?

A: Salmon are famous for their annual journey up stream to spawn, and can be easy to catch if found in the right spots. Although the concentration of Salmon can vary, normally they migrate in large schools, so fly fishing is the best method to catch the fish. You should change the size of the fly until you find an effective size(N.B. the size and design of the fly can be huge factor, but flies can be inconsistent in effectiveness).

Q: Where are Bass most commonly found?

A: . Bass can be found in many habitats, like rivers, lakes, oceans or ponds. They live in shallow waters with depths of about 20 feet deep.

Q: How many kinds of Bass are there?

A: There are many species of Bass, such as Largemouth, Smallmouth, Redeye, Spotted, Suqannee, and White Bass. Unlike Salmon though, the varied species are all similar in appearance.

Q: Where is the nearest place to catch Bass?

A: Bass are mostly found in areas from the southeast North America, to Canada, and out west to Texas.

Most lakes and rivers in the area are prime locations for catching Bass. Lake Anna, James River, and most costal rivers are local areas to catch bass.

Q: What’s the best way to catch Bass?

A: Bass are not too complex fish, from a fisherman’s point of view. They live in shallow waters, in many areas. They eat just about everything and are especially attracted to artificial lures. The best way for approach to catching a Bass is to take a boat out on a lake, anchor, bait the line with a worm, cast and wait for a nibble.

Location: Central Virginia Types of Fish: largemouth halibut, jumbo blue catfish. fresh threadfin shad, gizzard shad, eel, large blue cats, channel catfish, flathead catfish, black crappie, stripped bass, rockfish

Occoquan River Location: Prince William County, Virginia Common species of fish: white perch, striped bass, largemouth bass, crappie, yellow perch, flathead catfish, channel catfish

Occoquan Reservoir Location: Fairfax and Prince William Counties, Virginia Common species of fish: largemouth bass, bluegill, black and white crappie, channel catfish, flathead catfish, northern pike, white perch

Student lives to fish Name: Brian Bagot Grade: Junior What’s your favorite place to fish?

Right off the Chesapeake Beach What type of bait do you use?

Top Water lures What’s your best catch?

42 inch 35 pound stripped bass What’s your favorite fish to catch?

Blue fish or stripped bass What’s your favorite fishing moment?

“One time I caught the limit(one fish) after nine hours in the rain, in the Chesapeake Bay.” Has the “big one” ever gotten away?

“One time I hooked a 50 pound, four foot long carp, and my 12 pound test line broke.”

16 SPORTS The managers: key contributors, behind the scenes of the actual game

Name: Chris Evans Grade: 11 Sport: Boys Soccer Job Description: Orange slice technician, who cares for and distributes fruit during half time Years Helping Team: 1st year on Varsity, but has had previous experience helping a mens 80+ volleyball team.

Nickname: Slice Boy Personal Quote: “Originally I set out to help the team with oranges, but as the season went on they became not so much teammates, but friends, best friends.”

ABLAST

TUES. MAY 27, 2003

Baseball wins Patriot District After defeating fourth seeded Hayfield in the distict title game, the Atoms look ahead

the season. Hard work in the pouring rain on May 17 paid off, as they came away with an 8-5 upset of a formidable 8-4 Lake Braddock Bruin team ranked third in the district.

After a short weekend respite, the Atoms went back to the field to play the 9-3 West Springfield Spartans. In the 5th inning with the score nodded at 1-1 when senior Travis Johnson blasted a 2-run tape measure homerun which gave the Atoms’ a 3-1 lead for good. The victory allowed the Atoms to advance to the district finals for the second straight season.

Although the Atoms are district champions, the regional tournament still beckons, as their first round game was last Friday at home against the Liberty Districts’ fourth seeded 10-12 Woodson Cavaliers. The results of which were too late too publish in this issue.

“I’d like to make it to the regional final,” said Caudle, “we’ve made it this far, why stop now?”

Without question, the district tournament marked significant improvement from the team’s rather disappointing regular season.

Regardless of their performance in the regional tournament, the team will end their season on a high note, capturing the first Patriot District title for baseball since in 30 seasons.

BY MATT WIEST

Staff Writer The Atoms varsity baseball team brought home the Patriot District title last Tuesday night with an astounding 6-2 defeat of the 7-6 Hayfield Hawks at Hayfield Secondary School.

The victory for the 5-10 AHS team capped off the district playoffs which included victories over T.C. Williams, Lake Braddock, and West Springfield.

“We finally found the positions that suited each player,” said Head Coach Matt Caudle. “Everybody started contributing.”

Senior pitcher Travis Johnson threw a complete game along with nine strikeouts, and allowed just six hits, and one earned run. Senior Loren Sexton hit 3/4 with 3 RBI. Junior Ted Gibson and senior Bobby Morganthaler each scored two runs to provide the bulk of the Atoms’ scoring.

The road to the district finals for the Atoms, seeded sixth in the Patriot District, was by no means an easy one.

Faced with a first-round play-in game on May 17 against the seventh-seeded T.C. Williams Titans, AHS played more games than any other opponent they met.

Following the 3-0 defeat of the Titans, the Atoms faced Lake Braddock in what would become, for some individuals, the most memorable game of

SEAN SULLIVAN

SPOTLIGHT MANAGERS

the

Senior pitcher Travis Johnson prepares to deliver the ball to home plate. Johnson was the MVP of the Patriot District Tournament pitching all 7 innings in the championship game 6-2 victory over Hayfield last Tues. and hitting the game winning home run in the 5th inning of the semifinal 3-1 victory over West Springfield.

Softball falls to West Springfield in title game Name: Jen Stewart Grade: 12 Sport: Boys Lacrosse Job: Takes stats about groundballs and shot Years helping team: 2 Personal Quote: “I have had a great time helping out, and I will miss it next year.”

At the beginning of the season, coach Neave said that one of their main goals was to make it to Regionals. He’s Journalism I Student now looking a step further, to the state championship.

“You have to have goals. We have a big goal and objecThe softball team was defeated 5-3 by West Springfield tives along the way. Robinson, the district championship in the Patriot District Tournament championship, May 22. game, playing the Liberty district in Regionals, those are The softball team beat Robinson, for the third straight all objectives to reaching the big goal of winning the state time this year, to advance to the Patriot District championchampionship.” ship by a score of 1-0.

Four Annandale players made The championship game was All-District teams. Pitcher Dorsa played last Thursday against West Hassas and shortstop Lindsay Springfield. The Atoms have also Grant made first team, while qualified for the Regional tournacatcher Meghan Johnson and ment with their first round win in I’ve been saying since the centerfielder Erin O’Brien made the district tournament. beginning of the season second team.

Before beating Robinson on that we need to play for Next year the Atoms will be losTuesday, the Atoms played Lake May.We’ve been getting ing four key seniors, Hassas, Braddock last Monday to qualify for Grant, Thieberger, and Meagan the semifinals of the district tourbetter every single game.

Ogletree. However, they hope to nament. Though they had lost the —Rick Neave be able to build on the ten returntwo meetings with Lake Braddock Head Softball Coach ing varsity players. Their most during the regular season, the Atpressing need will be to find a numoms won 4-1, moving them to the ber one pitcher, which is the hardnext round of the district tournament and securing a place est position to replace. in the regional tournament.

“This was my first year at Annandale, and it’s been an “I’ve been saying since the beginning of the season that incredible year,” said coach Neave. “I couldn’t have exwe need to play for May. When we lost the first three games pected or dreamed of being in a better situation. Softball, of the season, it was a little discouraging, but we’ve been in the classroom, the administration, it’s the best career getting better every single game. We’ve had incredible immove I’ve ever made. If they’ll keep me, I’d be glad to stay provement overall over the course of the season,” said coach and retire here.”

Rick Neave.

BY STACEY MARIN

Funny Cide gets serious The longshot horse Funny Cide completed leg two of his amazing Triple Crown run as he won the Preakness May 17 in impressive fashion. If he wins the Belmont Stakes on June 1 he will become the first horse to win the Triple Crown (Kentucky Derby, Preakness, Belmont) since the legendary Secretariat in 1978.

Small market teams flourish The Anaheim Mighty Ducks came out the victor of the battle of two of the smaller market teams in the NHL. Anaheim beat the Minnesota Wild in the 2003 NHL Western Conference Finals in four straight games to advance to their first Stanley Cup appearance in the teams eleven year history. Anaheim will face the New Jersey Devils in the Stanley Cup finals, a marketing juggernaut with one of the highest payrolls in the NHL. Incidentally, New Jersey defeated Ottawa in the Eastern Conference Finals, the team with the lowest payroll in the NHL.

Lottery Decided The NBA draft lottery was held May 22 in which the Clevelend Cavaliers won the No. 1 pick in next months NBA draft. One surprising twist is that because of an earlier trade the Memphis Grizzlies’ No. 2 pick will be awarded to the Detroit Pistons who made it all the way to the Eastern Conference Finals. The lottery order will go as followed for picks 1-13: 1.

Cleveland; 2. Detroit (from Memphis); 3. Denver; 4. Toronto; 5.

Miami; 6. L.A. Clippers; 7. Chicago; 8. Milwaukee (from Atlanta); 9.

New York; 10. Washington; 11.

Golden State; 12. Seattle; 13.

Memphis (from Houston). The rest of the first round will be based on the playoff seedings.

Girls soccer concludes

Track runs into regionals

BY ANDREW MENEGAT Staff Writer

Future looks bright for young team with room for improvement

Finishing the season with a 7-0 loss to the Robinson Rams in the first round of the Patriot District tournament, the girls varsity Soccer record fell to 2-8-1 overall and 1-5 in the district. The loss put an end to the team’s season, along with all hopes of advancing to the regional tournament.

Previous to the District tournament, on May 6, the team recorded its most disappointing loss of the season, losing to the Hayfield Hawks 10-0.

Starting off with quick, aggressive play, the team looked as though they would put up a solid showing against the top team in the Patriot District. However, as the game progressed, the Hawks’ finesse and quick ball movement proved to be too much for the Atoms to handle.

“Entering the game we had a

BY CHRIS KALLANDER Staff Writer Throughout the year the track team has had its ups and downs. While either running in the icy cold or rather mild spring track has remained steady in its resolve to finish the year strong.

“Coach Rowe has done an excellent job with the kids this year,” said Coach Adams. “He’s really provided and great experience and a great environment for the students to improve themselves.”

Throughout the year the girls have racked up a 5-3 record which is pretty respectable considering all the inclement weather days. The boys have worked out a 7-2 record showing their skill and perseverance.

“So far they’ve put in fantastic efforts and have produced some great numbers,” said Coach Adams.

Some of the most notable performers on the team are Publio Agrafas, seniors Mike Flint and Ashley Welch and juniors Lauren Edwards, Elizabeth Gill, and Ayoob Jan. Flint, a four-year track runner, and has improved continually in his track career. This year Flint ranked as the No. 1 boy’s 800-meter runner in the region.

Edwards, who also ran the 800-meter was the only girl to advance to regionals for a long distance event Edwards has been a key contributor to the Track team for three years, and will likely be integral to the leadership and competitiveness of next years team.

While everyone has given it their all in this program, shot-put assistant Bob Sikes has really dedicated a lot of time for the kids. Sikes makes sure the teams schedule works for ev-

chance to win if we could manage to play aggressive,” said junior Chrissy Castaldo. “But it turned out to be a really bad game for us, our heads weren’t in it at all.”

Looking to next season, the team will be losing 10 seniors to graduation.

Among the players leaving will be senior captains Karlyn Hixson, Kathy Saupp, Mary Burke and Kara Burney.

However, next season shows promise with a lot of speed coming from younger players. In addition, there will be 14 returning players to provide the experience for next year. Included in the returning players will be freshman sensation Angie Rey, who was able to come through big for the team on the defensive end.

“I think next year we need to work more on the tactical aspects of the game,” said Coach Boger. “How to work the ball around will be key.”

Give me da’ ball!

Senior Kathy Saupp tries to keep the ball away from the Robinson defender in the Atoms’ first round district game. The Atoms’ were ousted by Robinson 7-0 to eliminate them from district play.

Catch me if you can Junior Lauren Edwards runs in her race at the Allen Johnson Invitational last month. Lauren ran the 800m in the regional meet Fri.

eryone on the team, and he makes changes accordingly, so that everyone can make arrangements for upcoming events.

“Bob Sikes has really helped the team schedule wise along with the entire staff,” said Coach Adams.

ANDREW MENEGAT

SPORTS NEWS

Sophomore Megan Johnson gets ready for the pitch during a game.

Megan has been a key contributor for the Atoms’ this year mainly at the catcher position. Jonhson was one of four Atoms to receive a district honor.

SEAGALL MAJESTIC

Name: Sarah Sherman Grade: 12 Sport: Boys Lacrosse Job: Does official game book Years Helping Team: 3 Personal Quote: “It has been a great experience.”

SEAN SULLIVAN

“

SPORTS 17

the

ABLAST

TUES. MAY. 27 2003

Boys lacrosse defeated by Bruins From rain delays, to cancellation, to referee’s showing up late, the boy’s lacrosse team has been through a lot this season, and now as it is winding down, they aren’t dissapointed.

“I think we played incredibly well this season,” said junior Max Ruth. “I hardly expected us to get to the semifinals in the District Tournament.”

Finishing their season 8-5 in the region, the Atoms were defeated by Lake Braddock 17-7 last Thursday in the semifinal round of the Patriot District Tournament, snuffing their chances at the district Championship. The Atoms however, still have this week’s regional tournament to look forward to, where they hope to preform well.

“It’s unfortunate that our run in districts ended,” said head coach Bill Maglisceau. “I still think we have a shot in regionals though.”

Despite their loss to Lake Braddock, not all members of the team walked away empty handed, with Senior attackman Ryan Teichler scored his 100th career goal against Lake Braddock.

“It would have been nice to win, but I can live with 100 goals too,” said Teichler.

Starting this season, the team was missing some of its key starters who had graduated last year, but the team did not

let this stop them, working hard all season for a winning record.

“Bernhardt, Steincbuchler and Rooney blew away my expectiations,” said Maglisceau. “These were the guys who you didn’t expect to improve much, but ended up being some of the key contributers to the team.”

Junior John Bernhardt, senior Erik Rooney and junior Billy Steinbuchler were all starters this year on varsity, and for the first time.

While the Atom’s drew themselves together this season, next year’s team will also miss some of its starters. Senior defensemen Ehad Awadallah has been a huge contributer to the team, as have senior’s Ryan Teichler and Chris Rauer.

“With some of our starters being seniors, we’ll be at a loss next year, leaving John Bernhardt and Adam Park to lead the team,” said Maglisceau.

“It’ll definetly be an adjustment getting along without so many of our best players next year,” said junior Scott Rodden. “But I think we’ll be able to have a successful season.”

The Atoms benefitted this year from senior goalie Chris Lusby, who after a season off, decided to play again.

After defeating West Potomac in the first round of the district tournament, and losing to Lake Braddock in the second, the Atoms will be facing Woodson in the first round of the regional tournament tonight.

BOYS JV LACROSSE

Starting defender, sophomore Luke Elliot

Record: 4-5-1 Key Players: Kelly Beam, Curtis Reed Result of last game: 3-2 win over Lake Braddock

GIRLS JV LACROSSE SARAH SHERMAN

Boys lax lost17-7 to Lake Braddock in the district semifinals

BY JOHN REISS Staff Writer

Junior Jason Bracken, left, and senior Erik Rooney pratice face-offs before their game against West Potomac in the first round of the district tournament. During the game, the Atoms’ dominated face-offs en-route to their 13-8 victory and advancement to the regional tourney.

Girls Lax falls to Robinson, looks towards region

SEAN SULLIVAN

BY ERIN O’BRIEN Arts Editor

Senior goalie Jeanine Frank warms up before a game. Frank has been the starting varisity goalie for two years and was key in this years’ regional tournament appearence by the Atoms’.

The Atoms fell 11-1 to the Robinson Rams in the district semifinal Thurs. May 22. Although the Atoms played hard throughout the entire game, they were unable to connect in the midfield and score goals.

“People were really looking foward to this game,” said junior Julie Stone. “We were all psyched and wanted to win.”

AHS came out strong and scored the first goal of the game. However, as the half progressed the Rams came back with a series of unanswered goals.

“We had a tough period in the first half where we lacked communication,” said Coach Cindy Hook. “Robinson was continually able to get players open in front of the goal.”

After halftime, the Atoms stepped up their level of play, allowing only 3 goals in the second half. “[senior goalie] Jeannine [Frank] played one of the best games of her high school career,” said Hook. “She had quality saves on quality shots by Robinson’s best attackers.”

“Our defense really improved in the second half,” said senior Kari Kraus. “We were forcing and covering players well, but their passes were on.”

The Last Edition

Victory over Langley sends Atoms’ to second round

BY AMANDA SHEAFFER Staff Writer

Starting Midfielder, sophomore Elizabeth Waxler

Record: 3-7 Key Players: Katie Payne and Julia Ehrenfeld Result of last game: 5-2 loss to Lake Braddock

GIRLS JV SOCCER

Starting midfielder, sophomore Amy Suddarth

Record: 4-5-3 Key Players: Sarah Sheehan, Natlie Gilbert Result of last game: 2-0 win over West Potomac

BOYS JV SOCCER

Starting midlfielder, freshman Stephen Amoah

Record: 9-0-3 Key Players: Konrad Hutt, Scott Anderson Result of last game: 1-0 win over West Potomac

JV BASEBALL

with John Bernhardt and Jared Smith

SEGALL MAJESTIC

With a stand out record of 7-10-1, the boys Varsity soccer team, have really made an astonishing season so far.

The Atoms started off their season a little slow, and progressively got better.

On Wednesday, May the 14, the team played a hard, fought game against West Springfield.

Throughout the entire game, Annanadale dominated, but just couldn’t connect with a goal.

They continued to play strong; unfortunately, they lost in the end of their district tournament game, 2-0.

Since the Atoms won their first round, they automatically earned a berth in the regional tournament. The Atoms are determined to stay focused on task at hand, winning the regional title.

In their next game, the Atoms played Langley, at Langley. With the rest of their season on the line, they had to do well, which they did.

“It was a hard fought battle against a scrappy Langley team, but I feel that we definitely dominated the game and rightfully won,” said junior Johnny Eklund.

In the middle of the first half, junior Bobson Conteh scored to give the Atoms a 1-0 lead at the end of the first half.

However, Langley scored late in the second half to even the score at 1-1.

With only stoppage time remaining, Chino Ferrefino scored the game winning goal, to boost the Atoms into the second round of regionals.

“After an exciting, fast pace game, I was happy that we figured out a way to win as opposed to just collapsing,” said Segaar.

“Robinson’s passes were perfectly pinpointed,” said Hook. “We made them do the perfect thing and they did it; their execution was on.”

“Despite the score, we really played hard,” said junior Chelsea Duffy. “I think we’ll take what we learned and use it in regionals.”

On Tues. May 16 the Atoms suffered a 12-11 loss to the Lake Braddock Bruins. The girls came out hard and scored the first two goals.

“After our first goals, we fell asleep,” said Hook.

The Bruins scored several in a row, unanswered.

“At halftime we regrouped and came back strong in the second half,” said Hook.

The Atoms were able to stay within one goal throughout the second half. “We had several opportunites to win the game, but, we couln’t finish,” said Hook. “People are working hard, but they’re working hard individually; without communication we end up ineffective.”

The girls were scheduled to play Hayfield Thurs.

May 18, but due to two lightening delays, they were unable to finish the game. With 5:20 left on the clock and the score tied at 9-9, lightening struck, forcing the game to be postponed until Mon. May 22.

“Our defense really stepped up strong against Hayfield,” said Stone. “All our passes were connecting, it was nice.”

The Atoms are scheduled to play the winner of the Woodson/Fairfax game away tonight at 7:30 for their first round of regionals.

E xcuse T he I nterjection

Boys soccer advances in regional tournament

ATOMIC ATHLETICS

Junior Mike Perucci kicks the ball up the field in the boys’ soccer game vs. Chantilly. Perucci was selected for the honorable mention All-District team.

Perucci was a key defender in the Atoms’ 1-0 district quarterfinal victory over Robinson.

The clenching game, made the Atoms keep up their intensity and never give up. “We overcame their defesnse and our offensive style began to really work,” said Segaar.

The Atoms anxiously await their upcoming game vesus the Herdon Hornets.

“Herndon is 10-1-2, and we’re their one loss they have, and they are definietly going to be waiting for us. We will dictate their tempo, and I just really think its going to be a good game.”

Last week, the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) invited three new teams from the Big East.

Beginning in the upcoming football season, the University of Miami, Syracuse and Boston College could all be in the ACC. How will this addition to the ACC effect the upcoming football and basketball seasons?

John: Adding Miami, Syracuse and Boston College will defintely boost football revenues for the ACC, which is the probable motive for change.

National football championship runner-up, Miami Hurricanes will bring another powerhouse team to the ACC. Florida State has dominated the ACC over the past decade, and Maryland is getting better each year; however, Miami will be the new topdog in this conference.

Although Syracuse won the National basketball championship this year, they will not be such a dominant force in the ACC. The ACC has the reputation, which they deserve, of being a annually strong basketball conference. Duke and North Carolina have won multiple national titles, and NC State and Maryland are among the top 20

teams in the country. Carmello Anthony-led Syracuse will not be in the running next year for the title because Anthony is going pro. ŁJared: These new teams would have a huge impact on the ACC. First of all in football whenever you add a team like the Miami Hurricanes to your league, it is like adding a pro team. They are undoubtedly the best college football program in the nation when it comes to talent and coaching. In addition Syracuse and BC are respectable football teams aswell, both going to bowl games in the last three seasons. In basketball the change will not be as noticable but again the Syracuse Orangemen are the national champs and will be ranked high going into next season, it will shake up things a bit in the ACC to see the Orangemen going up against the likes of Duke, North Carolina, and Maryland, all storied NCAA basketball programs. But overall all three teams and the ACC would eventually adjust to the change even though it would be a tough transistion for the Big East who should feel “screwed” if these schools left. Me personally as a Syracuse fanatic would be very disappointed to see my favorite team leave the conference it has always called home.

Starting pitcher, freshman Tyler Wolverton

Record: 5-8 Key PLayers: Tyler Wolverton, Josh Delpino, Tim Spicer Last game: 14-3 loss to Hayfield

JV SOFTBALL

Starting outfielder, sophomore Jessica Arias

Record: 3-11 Key Players: Kristi Johnson, Marisa Menezes Last game: 10-7 loss to Hayfield

18 ENTERTAINMENT This band rocks

the

ABLAST

TUES. MAY 27, 2003

HOROSCOPES If today is your birthday: You are vivacious, with a taste for being in charge, but you’re afraid of confrontation. As a Gemini you are multi-faceted, skilled in many areas and with a very full social life.

Keep in mind to relax now and then. Look forward to a vibrant summer, but some possible heartache. You could fall in love with a Scorpio, Taurus, or Leo. Lucky numbers: 4, 11, 12.

Aries (March 21-April 19) Use a disappointment to help you do your best. Sometimes there are opportunities in the least likely places. If you are feeling uncomfortable, make sure you know why. Stick to your goals; a fellow Aries will motivate you.

Taurus (April 20-May 20) Commitments are meaningful to you, but avoid being a doormat.

Use this summer to learn how to assert yourself. You’ve found luck in romance as of late; expect this to continue, unless you take it for granted. A Leo may provide a rude awakening.

AHS bands: girls and boys with big dreams and guitars are working to make it happen

Gemini (May 21- June 21) Don’t take bigger bites than you can chew, or you’ll choke. Recent dissapointment or success has left you reeling; enjoy what you can while staying grounded. If something else happens at this point, know that it’s for the best. An Aquarius gives unconditional support.

BY DANIEL VICCO AND KATIE STANTON Guest Writer and Entertainment Editor While there are plenty of quality bands out there, every AHS student should know that there are plenty that can be found right here at your school.

Pusikura’c This brilliant acoustic trio, featuring sophomores Christine Cox, Marian McLaughlin and junior Abby Jojic have been formally practicing together for approximately three months. “We were friends for a while with the same passion,” said McLaughlin. “We were at a boring concert and thought, ‘Why don’t we try making our own band?’” They were further inspired thanks to spending time together jamming, and Cox’s melodious singing voice, featured in Annandale Idol 2003.

Their first record, planned for summer of 2003, will be a vaguely improvised acoustic cut, which Jojic describes as “fairylike.”

“It’ll have lots of harmony and different guitar (From left) Sophomore Marian McLaughlin of Pusikura’c; cover of Society Casualty; cover of Evanescent.

Cancer (June 22-July 22) The world is trying to teach you exactly how to be dissapointed; it’s your responsibility to fight it off.

You’re a survivor, even if you’re sensitive. Summer will help you relax; focus on long-term goals and short-term fun. Get more exercise with a Sagittarius’ help.

Leo (July 23-August 22) So you’ve come to terms with the universe, but where do you go from here? Continue on this path and nothing can hold you back.

What seems boring may actually be exactly what you need. Distance and love have nothing to do with each other. Seek Gemini advice.

Virgo (August 23-Sept. 22) Appreciate your family for the gifts they’ve given you, but if you feel like they’ve done nothing, forget about them. You can handle more than you ever thought. If you feel like you’ve been wearing a mask in front of the people you care about, drop it. A Scorpio may let you down.

Libra (Sept. 23-Oct. 22) It feels like everything should be in place, but if it’s not, find out what you should do. Embarassing moments from your past may come back to haunt you; ignore the taunts. Assume that you’re not done to make sure you don’t miss anything. Use some Taurus advice to get yourself back where you need to be.

Scorpio (Oct. 23-Nov. 21) Monetary resources are flowing.

However, use them wisely, and don’t forget that without a plan for the future, you could need what you have. Make sure you’re ready to go when you have something to finish. Find out who the people around you really are, especially a Cancer.

Sagittarius (Nov. 22-Dec. 21) Even if you missed the game, you’re still a winner. Love is nice, but lust may be more important right now. Act on your instincts. If you’re single, have a fling; if you’re attached, break it off, at least for a while. It sounds extreme, but in the end it’s better for both ends. Virgos are fun.

Capricorn (Dec. 22-Jan. 19) You seem to be pretty satisfied; look forward to your future, even if it feels unacceptable. You still have time to make things happen, even if you don’t think so. Do what you can for someone who means the world to you and needs a hand. Stay in touch with a Capricorn.

Aquarius (Jan. 20-Feb. 18) Seek comfort in your best friend; that’s the person who’s willing to do the most for you. If a loved one is out of sorts, don’t take it personally. Take some lessons from kindergarten and treat people the way they want to be treated. A Pisces thinks you’re cool.

Pisces (Feb. 19-March 20) Physical activity has given you a whole new sense of meaning. If you can’t find something, make sure you’re looking everywhere carefully, although it’s possible you don’t even know it’s missing. A Libra is one of your favorite people.

Down with substance

BY KATIE STANTON Entertainment Editor If you have ever felt like love wasn’t worth your time, like you were finally beyond your quest for romantic satisfaction, like you were fully prepared to finally be an independent person... Down With Love is not for you.

Its premise speaks of such a quest: protagonist Barbara Novak (Renee Zellweger) is an author with a brand-new message for 1963. The movie opens with her journey to New York and her emergence into stardom with the publication of her book Down With Love. It is a gender study/self-help guide preaching three rules to allow women to work, live and love like men—and of course scares the crap out of the men in charge of her publishing company. With the help of her supposMOVIE REVIEW edly emotionally liberated agent, she DOWN WITH LOVE takes the world by storm and becomes the figurehead of a massive ’60s feminist movement, and the bane of the male gender.

Of course, there is always a twist.

Novak is to be on the cover of Know A FUN DATE MOVIE; magazine, “the magazine for men in STYLISH AND MUSICAL, the know,” and will be begrudgingly BUT EMPTY. interviewed by their top reporter: Catcher Block (Ewan McGregor), the ’60s equivalent of a pimp. He stands up Novak so many times in attempted interviews (mostly because of feminine distractions) that she finally erupts in a fit of feminist anger and, to his shock, publicly tells him off. Needlessly, Block’s innumerable girlfriends get the hint.

Block’s solution? Hit her where it hurts: he pretends to be a country boy with no idea of her success (because naturally being a feminist leader leaves one boyfriendless and pining). In the end, there’s only one possible outcome: the truth is told (surprising, and somewhat disappointing), Block and Novak fall in love, he leaves behind his “playa” ways, and he and Novak form a worldwide publishing conglomerate offering jobs and equality to all women.

The movie is very funny; one law replacing sex with chocolate leads to many frustrated binges, and a completely random five-minute monologue explaining the truth of it all (albeit confusing and almost like another lie) leaves the viewer crying with laughter. Zellweger and McGregor are excellent actors, and the cheesy retro vibe and styles are pulled off with flair.

It’s cute, it’s romantic, it ends with a McGregor-Zellweger duet (as to be expected) and it makes feminists look like all it takes is a man to get them purring. In the end, Down With Love succeeds in its aesthetic appeal, as the audience keeps in mind that it’s completely without substance.

B+

Ewan McGregor and Renne Zellweger star in the bubbly Down With Love.

riffs at once; also arpeggios and chords,” said McLaughlin.

On stage, they perform with unique and catchy outfits, like what they wore for the AHS guitar concert.

“Actually, we’re more into music than appearance,” said McLaughlin. “We try being as unique as we can, original and creative,” said Cox. Regular music tends to sound the same, and “that’s why we don’t like stuff that they play on the radio or is popular right now, so we try to make our own songs,” said Jojic. They count their major influences as Garbage, Pink Floyd, Jimi Hendrix and Nirvana.

“We don’t want to have an industry create us. We want to be able to create ourselves,” said McLaughlin.

“One reason why we want to center our band around music instead of appearance is because when music becomes trendy and based on looks, it totally loses its meaning.”

Malcontent A great deal of punk suffers from a certain repetitive sound, but occasionally something new comes along that is truly original. Such is the case with Society Casualty, the debut album from Malcontent. It’s a collection of intense and energetic songs that utilize an abundance of vocals.

Sophomore Chris Roe’s and Thomas Jefferson junior Sidy Toure’s singing styles rock with influences from NOFX and Pennywise. Casualty is a blur of guitar and lyrics, which doesn’t mask some personal insight. “We write songs about what’s happening in the world and real life situations, and we want to get our opinion heard,” said Roe. Malcontent started in August of 2002; both singers live in close proximity to each other. “We just got together and started playing music,” said Roe. With progress steady on their CD, the band is ready to promote to anyone. “Basically we are all about playing what we think music should be, and not being tied down to a certain way of thinking... we’re definitely playing punk rock, but we’re not trying to be punk,” said Roe.

Junior Abby Jojic and sophomore Christine Cox of one of the only all-girl bands in AHS.

The Farewell Act The Farewell Act is back with Evanescent, their second album in a year. This time out they’ve served up some emo-punk that readily incorporates their favorite band influences while retaining their sensibility and style.

Their music means different things to different people. But one thing everyone in their band can agree on is that they want their music to connect with the crowd. “We just play music, and people don’t have to necessarily like it,” said junior John Reiss, bass. “But of course we expect they like our music.”

This quartet of young yet polite emo-punks rehearse at least once a

week at junior John Bernhardt’s (lead guitar) house. “We practice there, eat there, go to the bathroom there. All the music we make comes from his basement, plus his mom is a great cook,” said Reiss.

“Evanescent, is the total of all our efforts thus far. The CD quality is a lot more refined than our first and the quality of the sound is better,” said Reiss. The band includes Paul Gleason on guitar and lead vocals, yet their drummer position is in limbo. Last Monday night they played a show at Zigs, a club and bar that features local bands on a nightly basis. Evanescent is available from all band numbers or their manager, Andrew Satten.

Matrix game is fully loaded

BY PHILIPPE PODHORECKI Co-Editor in Chief As part of the greatest movie/videogame combination ever, Enter The Matrix (available for all systems and PC), pulls off the incredible story, stunts and action that has made The Matrix a household name.

Released in conjunction with Reloaded, the game includes new footage filmed with the actual cast during film production as well as full motion-captured characters and cut-scenes.

The plot follows either Niobe or Ghost, both of the ship the Logos, as they fulfill their part of the Reloaded story.

T h e GAME REVIEW Wachowski brothers wrote ENTER and directed the game, THE MATRIX making it an integral part to the Matrix phenom.

Players indulge in the Logos sub-plot, which is only partially hinted at GREAT GRAPHICS AND AN EXCELLENT PLOT MAKE THE during Reloaded. Seeing GAME THE PERFECT MOVIE the movie and completing COMPANION. the game gives deeper insight and explanation into the intricacies of the story and its characters.

Those who fall for the Wachowski bait on both counts are likely to enjoy the interweaving stories and the introduction of new facts, unknown to those who only enjoy one medium.

Motion-captured movements and digital models of the actors appear fluid and near-real.

The environments are taken straight from the movies, maintaining

A

that underlying “cool” feel that captivates crowds.

The game suffers from some minor slowdown, but that does not interfere with the gameplay.

The camera is computercontrolled, leaving the player dependent upon the machine, but in this case it works out well.

Music taken from the movies litters the actionpacked game, furthering the feeling of being in the movie.

Manipulating the Matrix like Neo or Morpheus is surprisingly easy and well-designed. By holding the L trigger, players

go into “Focus Time” where time slows down and cool new moves can be performed: shooting while diving, shooting while jumping, shooting while doing a cartwheel, or just shooting, and more.

Cool martial arts moves and stealth kills can also be used to exterminate those still plugged into the Matrix.

Mimicing trademark Matrix-moves WITH never gets old, especially during the relatively short length for each Philippe Podhorecki c h a r a c t e r ’s Co-Editor in-Chief path. For each quest it takes between five to ten hours, depending on difficulty setting and skill.

Luckily there is a unique mini-game of sorts called “Hacking.”

Basically a version of MS-DOS, the minigame allows the player to “hack” into the Matrix and discover new codes, items, unlock movies, and other such excitement.

However, it’s not terribly complicated. Even computer illiterates could “hack” enough to unlock a majority of the secrets in a couple hours.

A perfect partner to accompany Reloaded, Enter The Matrix provides enough single player excitement to keep players “jacked in” before ever wanting to free their mind.

This review was based upon the Xbox version only.

P

HUN HIL

The character Niobe, played by Jada PinkettSmith, is a kickass defender of Zion; she is further developed in the video game as one of the main characters to play.

ENTERTAINMENT 19

the

ABLAST

TUES. MAY 27, 2003

BEST OF DAWSON’S CREEK

PHOTO ILLUSTRATION BY ALEJANDRO SALINAS

THE BREAKFAST CLUB

New releases including Seabiscuit, Terminator 3, 2 Fast 2 Furious, Legally Blonde 2, The Hulk and Charlie’s Angels are sure to entertain audiences around the world.

BY ALEJANDRO SALINAS Entertainment Editor School is almost over, it’s getting hot outside, and the will to work hard is long gone. All these factors can only indicate one thing: summer movie season has arrived once again, bringing with it some of the most anticipated releases, including sequels to Charlie’s Angels and The Fast and the Furious as well as new films such as The Hulk.

BIG RELEASES The Hulk In this adaptation of the long-running Marvel comic “The Incredible Hulk,” research scientist Dr. Bruce Banner’s (Eric Bana) failed experiments cause him to mutate into a monstrously powerful and savage green-skinned monster whenever he loses control of his emotions. Jennifer Connelly plays his love interest Betty Ross, and Nick Nolte plays Bruce’s dangerous father. Early buzz: Reviews of the trailer have been quite negative, accusing both the film and the Hulk of being overtly fantastic. However, with stellar actors and a well-known director, The Hulk could be this year’s sleeper hit. Release: June 20 The League of Extraordinary Gentleman Set in Victorian England, the story centers around a team of extraordinary figures enlisted by a mysterious caller to stop a villain intent on turning the nations of the world against one another.

Early buzz: News about difficulties on the set between the director and Sean Connery have only helped the film’s publicity, yet difficulties on set can also translate to problems on screen. Audiences will just have to wait and see if this film is really in a “league of its own.” Release: July 11

Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl Captain Jack Sparrow’s (Johnny Depp) idyllic life crumbles after his nemesis, Captain Barbossa (Geoffrey Rush), steals his ship, the Black Pearl, and later attacks the town of Port Royal, kidnapping the Governor’s beautiful daughter, Elizabeth Swann (Keira Knightley).

Elizabeth’s childhood friend, Will Turner (Orlando Bloom), joins forces with Jack to commandeer the fastest ship in the British fleet in a courageous attempt to rescue her and recapture the Black Pearl.

Early buzz: With an ensemble cast that includes both talented veterans (Rush and Depp) and rising stars (Bloom, Knightley), Pirates of the Caribbean should prove to be an interesting option for audiences drawn to classic adventure and action.

Release: July 9 MULTIPLICITY Terminator 3: Rise of the Machines A decade has passed since John Connor helped prevent Judgment Day and saved mankind from mass destruction. Now 25, Connor lives with no record of his existence. There is no way he can be traced by Skynet. That is until out of the shadows of the future steps the T-X, Skynet’s most sophisticated cyborg killing machine yet. Sent back through time to complete the job left unfinished by her predecessors. Early Buzz: Deja vu, anyone? One more time, Connor’s only hope for survival is the Terminator, his mysterious former assassin. There are many reservations regarding this film: many fear that without the direction of James Cameron and with Arnold turning 50, T3 just won’t connect with audiences. Release: July 2 Charlie’s Angels: Full Throttle Natalie, Dylan and Alex, the three glamorous, tough, investigative agents

are back in action. This time around, the Angels are sent undercover to retrieve two missing bands containing valuable information that reveals the identities of every person in the FBI’s Witness Protection Program. After five of the program’s participants turn up dead, it’s up to the Angels to stop the perpetrator. Early Buzz: Although a well structured plot may not be the Angel’s forte, the first movie grossed over $125 million at the box office. With most of the cast returning, except for Tom Green and Bill Murray, the addition of Demi Moore and Bernie Mac, and cameos from Pink and the Olsen twins, Full Throttle is a sure hit. Release: June 27 2 Fast 2 Furious Former cop Brian O’Conner (Walker) teams up with his ex-con pal Roman Pearce (Tyrese) to transport a shipment of “dirty” money for a shady Miami-based import-export dealer, while actually working with an undercover agent to bring down this illegal organization.

Early buzz: With only Paul Walker returning to the sequel, things are not looking good for this fast-paced action movie.

However, Walker, accompanied by newcomer Tyrese, cool stunts, and a flashy cast, might just have enough draw to make 2 Fast a hit. Release: June 6 Tomb Raider: The Cradle of Life While searching for treasures in a sunken temple, archaeologist Lara Croft (Angelina Jolie) happens upon a sphere that holds the location of Pandora’s box.

The box is stolen by a Chinese crime syndicate, who, in confabulation with a mysterious man, plan to use the Box as a doomsday weapon. Early buzz: Many are skeptical about this movie, especially since its predecessor was qualified by many critics as the worst movie of that year. However, in a recent interview with Entertainment Weekly, Jolie said that producers learned from their previous mistakes, and this film would be darker and edgier. Release: July 25

Wrong Turn Jessie and her friends have been left stranded deep in the middle of the woods, after a suspicious road accident. Soon they discover the reason they’re in their predicament is because barbed wire had been stretched across the road, and decide to venture into the forest in search of a telephone. They stumble upon a mountain cabin filled with grisly hunting weapons and horrific souvenirs of the hunt. They are now certain that whomever—or whatever—lives in the cabin is responsible for the barbed-wire trap that derailed their trip. Early buzz: Release: March 30

Prozac Nation Elizabeth Wurtzel, a prize-winning student, is headed for Harvard. During her first year there, Wurtzel finds herself in a continuous state of depression, which she indirectly attributes to her mother, father and her unhappy childhood. Finding that her mental instability is unavoidable, Elizabeth’s only choice, ultimately, is Prozac—the wonder drug of the nineties. However, before long, she begins to wonder whether the drug is really helping her—or running her life. Early buzz: Although Elizabeth Wurtzel’s memoir is a best-seller, this film has been waiting to be released for almost two years, which usually indicates something is definitely not right. Release: June 13

THE UNDERDOG Seabiscuit The true story of a former bicycle repairman who owned a small, knobblykneed horse called Seabiscuit and a halfblind ex-boxing prize fighter, Red Pollard (Maguire), who became the horse’s jockey.

Seabiscuit narrates the public’s growing interest over the horse during the Great Depression. Seabiscuit centers around the horse’s win of the Horse of the Year award in 1938. Early Buzz: With Maguire and Cooper rounding the cast, Seabiscuit guarantees great acting. Release: July 25

CHEESE From Justin to Kelly Last year’s breakout stars from television series, American Idol, make it to the big screen in a musical romantic comedy.

The occasion is Spring Break, and Kelly Clarckson and Justin Guarini play two love birds separated by...misunderstood text messages! Early buzz: What is this?

Thousands of college students spring breaking at the beach, and all that happens in the movie is that everyone starts breaking out to sappy tunes? Not even Paula Abdul would buy this ridiculous plot... but then again, it is Mrs. Abdul.

Release: June 13.

The WB’s ‘Creek’ runs dry

BY ALEJANDRO SALINAS AND CAROLINE FRIEDMAN Entertainment Editor and News Editor A series devoted entirely to teenagers, their struggles with puberty, and eventual maturation? When Dawson’s Creek debuted in 1998 on The WB, both critics and the public were, rightly, skeptical about the quality of the show. However, Dawson’s was no ordinary teen drama; penned by Scream creator Kevin Williamson, known for his astute, incisive style, and supported by a remarkable cast of young talents, the show garnered positive attention from critics.

Dawson’s was centered in the fictional town of Capeside and revolved around the life of four stereotypical adolescents; the allAmerican Dawson (James Van Der Beek), tomboy Joey (Katie Holmes), sidekick Pacey (Joshua Jackson) and the beautiful, yet bitchy Jen Jack, Joey, Dawson, Pacey and Jen will always be remembered as the characters that influences thousands of hormonal teenagers.

(Michelle Williams). Although

THE BEAUTY CONTEST

(MELO)DRAMA

CAMPY HORROR 28 Days Later After breaking into a primate research facility, a group of animal rights activists, inadvertently, unleash a deadly virus. 28 days later, Jim (Cillian Murphy) awakes from a coma in the deserted intensive care unit of a London hospital. Mystified, he wanders through the city only to discover piles of dead bodies. After being contacted by a group of survivors, he learns that the virus has overrun Britain and there is no way of knowing if it has spread worldwide. Early buzz: From the acclaimed director of Trainspotting, 28 Days later promises to be the greatest homage to zombie films. Release: June 13

Season: One Synopsis: Dawson, Pacey, Jen and Joey all find themselves in detention for a Saturday that turns into the more trouble then they had counted on. This was the first episode where the audience saw the characters problems, and where, in a game of truth or dare, Joey and Dawson shared their first kiss.

founded on a series of cliches, the characters were developed with such subtly and intelligence that the audience soon found itself attached to the characters and enthralled in the developing love triangle between Joey, Dawson and Pacey.

When the show returned for its sophomore year, siblings Jack (Kerr Smith) and Andy (Meredith Monroe), were introduced to the cast.

Williamson not only temporarily broke the Dawson-Joey-Pacey triangle, but also introduced Dawson’s first gay character.

As the seasons continued, the complications and plot lines between the three main characters deepened. Joey and Pacey began their fling and on the senior ski-trip Joey lost her virginity to Pacey, a shocker to most fans who believed she would save herself for Dawson. After breaking it off, viewers anticipated the core five’s move to Boston to go to college.

Through the remainder of the seasons Joey fought her endless inner battle between her longtime best friend and soulmate Dawson and the love of her life, Pacey. Even with other relationships, Joey seemed to always

come back to her childhood dilemma.

So it was no surprise to fans that on the series finale that took place five years in the future that Joey was still torn over the same two men. In the future, Jen has a baby, Jack is in a relationship with Pacey’s brother, Pacey owns a restaurant in Capeside, Joey lives in New York and Dawson was the producer of a show called The Creek, a duplicate of his relationship with Joey.

At the reception of Dawson’s mom’s wedding Jen passes out and the group discovers that she has a serious heart condition and only has a short time to live. The way in which her death and her good-byes were acted out created closure for the characters and a purpose for them to re-examine their lives. In the process of this, Pacey tells Joey that he has always loved her and always will. Dawson and Joey come to the conclusion that they will always be soulmates, but that they can not be romantically involved.

In the end, Joey makes her final decision and picks Pacey. Although there was some sappy moments, the finale left all loose end tied up and was overall a tactful conclusion.

Season: One Synopsis: Pacey and Joey enter in Capeside’s beauty contest and realize that dignity is a lot more important than winning. Pacey was worthy of many laughs with his William Wallace impersonation. Joey sings “Own my Own” from Les Miserable and Dawson starts to see Joey’s true beauty.

DECISIONS

Season: One Synopsis: In the series’ first finale, Joey meets with her father in prison for a heartfelt conversation. And, in a touching moment for fans, Dawson and Joey finally confess their feelings for one another, bringing the season to a bittersweet end.

TRUE LOVE

Season: Three Synopsis: In the third season finale, Joey makes her first decision on whether to stay with Dawson in Capeside or leave with Pacey for the summer on a romantic trip on the sea.

She ultimately decides to venture with Pacey.

ALL GOOD THINGS...MUST COME TO AN END

Season: Six Synopsis: Five years into the future in the season’s series finale, the gang heads back to Capeside for Dawson’s mother’s wedding. Dawson is living his dream as a director on a television series, Joey is a writer in NYC, Pacey is the owner of a Restaurant in Capeside and Jen is a single mother.

Joey finally makes her decision between Dawson and Pacey, realizing she and Dawson are soulmates, but she is in love with Pacey.

20 WEEKEND Up in

the

ABLAST

TUES. MAY 27, 2003

What did you do last weekend?

“I hung-out at a friend’s house and watched some movies and I went to the Baltimore Aquarium.”

—Kaitlin Molavi freshman

“I went to the movies and watched X-2 and hung-out at the mall with some friends.”

—Chris Steven sophomore

“Friday, I went to Prom with Anteneh Addisu, and it was so much fun. On Sunday, I spent time with my mommy.”

—Chelsea Duffy junior

“I hung-out at the library and got my weekly book reading quote complete.”

While marijuana and cigarette use among teens have dropped, Hookah bars have become a popular hang out in the area.

—Jose Gonzalez senior

“I went to the movies and to a cookout. I saw X-2 for the second time and went to church.”

BY KATHARINE KISHIYAMA AND CAMERON KYNES

Weekend Editors It’s past 10 p.m. and most of the store windows are pitch black with closed signs displayed. However, a group of teenagers stand outside one storefront on the sidewalk chatting on their cell phones and smoking cigarettes, while others squeeze by them coming in and out of the entrance to the store.

Inside, large textured murals adorn the walls, the lights are dim, and Arabic music is blaring in the background while a hazy sweet fruit-flavored aroma fills the air.

Black lights hanging from the ceiling make everything white reflect a fluorescent glow. A hazy cloud hovers over dozens of people sitting on couches and at tables smoking.

All these people have gathered in the middle of the night to converse in this crowded store, simply to smoke.

But, to smoke what? With the rates of young adults who smoke cigarettes and weed declining recently, a new trend has begun... smoking shishah.

“I smoke because it’s fun to hang-out and talk with my friends in the bar,” said Danny Espinoza.

Shishah is a flavored mixture of tobacco combined with fruit and molasses or honey. Some flavors include orange, mango, double apple, berry, and cappacino. “My favorite flavor is strawberry, but most of them make me sick,” said senior Meagan Ogletree.

From older men in business suits to groups of boisterous teenagers and college

—K.W. Williams awareness aid

Fri. May 30— 2 Skinnee J’s National Farewell Tour w/ Rocktopus & Vic Thrill @ 9:30 Club $15.00 Wed. June 4— Michelle Branch @ 9:30 Club $20.00 Thurs. June 5— Nas @ 9:30 club $40.00 Thurs. June 5— CKY @ 9:30 Club $15.00 Fri. June 6— LL Cool J @ Dream Sat. June 7— Macy Gray, O.A.R., Sixpense and more @ Pier Six Concert Pavilion $28.00-$48.00

KATHARINE KISHIYAMA

UPCOMING CONCERTS

Smoking shishah from hookahs, also known as hubblebubbles or narghile, has become increasingly popular among young adults around the area.

students, hookah bars are becoming a new trend in popular night-life activities. Each night the Prince Hookah Bar, located in Falls Church, is packed with those who have come to smoke shishah from water pipes, known as hookahs or narghiles.

While some say tobacco smoked from hookahs contains a small portion of nicotine and none of the tar and other chemicals found in American cigarettes, several studies have shown that hookah smoke contains significant amounts of nicotine in

“

They used to be really lenient about it, but lately they have been cracking down on the age. It’s probably because of the hookah bar’s new popularity.”

—Jack Shea senior

addition to high amounts of arsenic and other heavy metals. Recently, debates have arisen concerning which is more harmful, shishah or cigarettes. “In my opinion, cigarettes are more harmful because it is easier to feed your addiction. Cigarettes are cheap and can be carried around with you. Smoking hookah is more of a social thing, which most people don’t do everyday. It can only be smoked out of a large pipe, which makes it harder to smoke whenever you want,” said senior Rodman Dehghi.

However, some choose to ignore the controversy. “I like hookah bars because they have an entirely different atmosphere from the rest of the world. It’s a place where I can just chill-out and relax. The Arabian music in the background and the music videos are entertaining,” said senior Jack Shea.

Back in the hookah bar, a bigscreen TV, playing exotic music videos, is mounted on the back wall. Rows of tables and chairs fill the center of the floor with couches along the sides of the store.

In the center, a group of rowdy college students are getting into the music when three girls stand up and begin an exotic dance. Meanwhile, towards the back, several older men sit in the couches smoking from a hookah and playing dominos. It is not unusual for people to bring cards or other games such as backgammon to play while relaxing.

Technically, it is illegal for people under 18 to smoke hookah. Just like cigarettes, this law has been put in place so that young kids will not become addicted. However, it is not illegal for kids under 18 to get into these hookah bars. Once inside, kids

PHOTO ILLUSTRATION BY KATHARINE KISHIYAMA

WEEKEND UPDATE

Senior RodmanDehghi demonstrates how to smoke from a hookah, which is composed of a water-filled metal container and a tube.

can sit with older friends who have already ordered the hookah and smoke with little risk of being asked to see an ID. “They used to be really lenient about it, but lately they have been cracking down on the age. It’s probably because of the hookah bar’s new popularity,” said Shea. As this Middle Eastern tradition becomes increasingly popular, more regulations and laws are bound to be implemented.

The tradition has been around for centuries. This ancient water pipe has been accepted for centuries as a way to relax with friends and family. It is one of the oldest traditions in Turkey and in many Middle Eastern countries.

The Hookah itself consists of four pieces: the Agizlik (mouthpiece), the Lule (top of the Hookah), the Marpuc (the tube), and the Govde (the body of the pipe which is filled with water).

Hookah was extremely popular at the end of the 19th and 20th century. However, as the availability of cigarettes increased, Hookah declined. But, it still has been used to a great degree throughout the Middle East. Americans from these countries are very familiar with the practice. Junior Mark Abdalla said, “It’s used all over the Middle East, sometimes just a decoration, sometimes for use, whatever the reason, it’s mostly cultural.”

Hookah has managed to transcend cultural barriers. Americans rarely embrace traditions so readily

FAST FACTS Hookah— An Eastern smoking pipe designed with a long tube passing through an urn of water that cools the smoke as it is drawn through; also called hubble-bubble and narghile Shishah— tobacco combined fruit and molasses or honey (30% tobacco and 70% fruit and molasses) How it works: —Tobacco is placed on a metal plate with a hole in the bottom that contains a water-filled metal container below and is heated by special charcoal. When the smoker inhales, smoke travels through the water, down the tube and into the smokers mouth.

Etiquette — Never light your cigarette with the coals on your hookah — Never put your hookah on a height, smoke it off the ground — Never pass the hookah directly to another person. Always put it down and let the next person pick it up — Don’t smoke anything but tobacco out of it ** It is illegal for teenagers under the age of 18 to smoke hookah.**

POPS serves tasty traditional treats

K

AT’S ORNER

KATHARINE KISHIYAMA

Sat. June 7— RX Bandits w/ No Motiv, Fairweather, Steel Train @ 9:30 Club $10.00 Sat. June 14— SEV @ Jaxx Nightclub $13.00 Sat. June 14— Santana w/ Angelique Kidjo @ Nissan Pavilion $10.00-$63.00

As the saying goes, out with the old and in with the new. However, POPS Old Fashioned Ice Cream serves as an exception to this rule. This early 1900s style ice cream parlor is one of a kind, serving everything from homemade ice cream to malts, pies, sorbet and ice cream liquors.

With its checkered tiled floor and red and white striped wallpaper, POPS is a unique ice cream parlor reminiscent of a scene from Mary Poppins. The white tables and chairs are similar to the lawn furniture featured in a the scene where Mary Poppins takes the children on an escapade to the horse races. The traditional theme of the restaurant creates an inviting atmosphere for ice cream lovers and sets the store apart from other more popular ice cream stores such as Ben and Jerry’s and Maggie Moos.

POPS Old Fashioned Ice Cream is owned by the same company as the Fish

KATHARINE KISHIYAMA

Weekend Editor

Sat. June 7— Hot 99.5 Hizzy Hot Anniversary Shizzo with Jewel, Blu, Cantrell, Wayne Wonder, and more @ Merriweather Post Pavilion $25.00$40.00

from the Middle East region, but this has found a strong niche in America. It is now reaching people not of Middle Eastern decent.

Ogletree said, “It’s mostly Middle Eastern people, but I go there to chill with my friends. I don’t even really like to smoke there. I just do it for the social aspect.”

Several hookah bars in the Washington D.C. Area have experienced an increase of customers over the past several months. This surge of popularity may be due to a heightened awareness of Middle Eastern culture after the September 11th attacks and the recent War on Iraq.

However, it may also be due to an urge to experience a new way of smoking.

Unlike other smoking habits, smoking hookah is easier on the pocketbook. One order of shishah costs anywhere from about $7 to $10 and lasts for about an hour. Most attend hookah bars in groups, where the cost can be split among the group, decreasing the cost of smoking to a mere few dollars. However, most bars demand that each person in the group buys a drink, which cost about $2. Hookah bars also offer a variety of food, but it is uncommon to see customers actually eating.

There are several hookah bars located around the area, including two in Falls Church, Prince and Oasis, which have become popular hangouts for many students. In addition, Cario is located in Alexandria, and another branch of Prince is located in Georgetown.

POPS Old Fashioned Ice Cream, located in Oldtown Alexandria serves homemade ice cream and is owned by the same company as the Fish Market Restaurant.

Market Restaurant, which is located next door. It has been open for five years and is the only store of its kind in the entire United States. Located in Oldtown Alexandria on the main drag (King St.) near the water, POPS is literally across the street from Ben and Jerry’s Ice Cream

Shop. However, unlike its competitor, POPS relies on more traditional flavors.

According to one of the shop’s employees, cookie dough is the most popular ice cream flavor. However, the store offers a wide variety of selections to choose from. In addition to the tradi-

tional flavors such as vanilla, chocolate and strawberry, they also serve cherry vanilla, peach, black raspberry, pistachio, peppermint stick, and pralines and cream scoops just to name a few. Their special flavors include bubble gum, peanut butter, mango, tiramisu, cotton candy and cheesecake.

POPS also offers ice cream liquors including Bailey’s Irish Cream, Kahlua, Rum Raisin, and Cream de Menthe.

Scoops are reasonably priced at $2.40 for a small, $3.15 for a medium and $4.00 for a large. Extra toppings such as peanuts, wet walnuts, sprinkles and sauces are an extra 30 cents.

In addition to homemade ice cream, POPS offers orange, lemon, and mango sorbet. It also features malts, root beer floats, banana splits, sundaes, and various classic flavored pies.

So next time you’re in the mood for some ice cream, skip the well-known ice cream shops such as Dairy Queen, Baskin Robins, and Ben and Jerry’s and opt for something new. Its homemade ice cream is supercalifragilisticexpialidocious!

For more information, check out the store at 109 King St. or call (703) 5185374.