Issue 13

a

Blast

the Tuesday, May 21, 2002 Volume #47 Issue 13

ANNANDALE HIGH S CHOOL

Informing the Atoms since 1954

4700 Medford Dr. Annandale, VA 22003 703.642.4229

h t t p : / / w w w. f c p s . k 1 2 . v a . u s / A n n a n d a l e H S / A B l a s t / 2 0 0 2

Students appeal to school board

Classes move

by Mohammad Edris Qarghah Staff Writer

by Kyle Smeallie Staff Writer

On Tuesday, May 14, juniors Jonathan Farrar and Gina Sobel spoke at the Fairfax County Public School (FCPS) School Board Budget hearings about the necessity to maintain support for International Baccalaureate (IB) and Advanced Placement (AP) classes.

The School Board has been considering various methods to save money due to the $47 million budget shortfall. These include the continued use of old textbooks, requiring students to pay for fine arts and concert field trips and charging more for school parking spots. The Board has voted on this proposal but the results are as of yet not available.

At the request of IB Coordinator Erin Albright, Sobel and Farrar contested the proposition to require students to pay for their own IB and AP tests. They believed it detrimental to providing, as the FCPS mission statement says, “a gifted-quality education to every child in an instructional setting appropriate for his or her need.”

AHS has students of 85 different nationalities, who speak upwards of 45 different languages. This year these foreign nationals constituted 40% of those who took one or more IB or AP classes. Sobel and Farrar felt that the proposed exam fees were a threat to the school’s diversity.

Each AP and IB exam costs $25. Though to many this does not seem an exorbitant amount, for roughly one-third of AHS students, those on free or reduced lunch, this can be. Even for those who are not economically disadvantaged, multiple IB or AP courses can really add up. Farrar said “What happens to [students] if they are going for the full IB diploma and are taking at least six IB courses? That’s $150.”

One of FCPS’s Divisionwide Strategic Targets says that its goal is for the “percent of juniors and seniors enrolled in AP or IB courses [to] be maintained or increased, with at least two-thirds of students scoring a 3 or higher on an AP exam or 4 or higher on an IB exam. Enrollment for Black and Hispanic students will increase by 10 percent.”

When the barricades came down on Friday, May 17 and the movers transferred the entire math wing to the former parking area near the cafeteria, students were stunned. They were not shocked by the state-of-the-art lecture hall or the brand-new two-story math wing, but at the fact that they were still at AHS. Yes, the same ceiling-less school which boasts soapless bathrooms and 24-hours-a-day of construction is now equipped with a brand new math wing.

After more than nine months of this year in the same classroom, math teachers picked up their belongings and migrated after school on Friday, May 17.

However, this was a price that math teachers like Martha Trigeiro were willing to pay. “It’s always nice to have a new room, and my students seem to be excited about it,” said Trigeiro.

Starting last week, teachers began to put their possessions into boxes, to make the actual move run smoothly. As of 2:30 on Friday, teachers began the physical moving of their classrooms, and two hours later, all but one teacher were completely moved into their new rooms.

Some of the old math rooms went to foreign language teachers. Bruce Fisher’s former room went to Bianca Mullins, a Spanish teacher, and Anna Frome’s former classroom went to Mary Morgan, a Latin teacher.

One student who is not excited about the move is sophomore Justine Bui. “I think it’s really inconvenient that I have to pick up everything and go to another classroom so close to the end of the year,” said Bui. Before the move, many teachers were situated in classrooms of inadequate size for the amount of students that they have. Fisher’s new classroom is two to three feet bigger than his former room, and he is very pleased. “The layout is better for me, and I think the kids are going to enjoy it,” said Fisher.

However the move wasn’t beneficial to all. One of the two teachers staying in the trailer is Leonard Bumbaca. “It makes me

SHANT SHAHRIGIAN

Freshmen Lizzy Waxler, Marcela Zeballos, Don Hang, Seerat Ashfaq and Tim Sehrer participate in a group discussion in Virginia Crowley’s Honors English class.

Upper-level classes open to all

by Shant Shahrigian Co-Editor in Chief

Since their introduction into mainstream education, “advanced” and “honors” classes have risked creating virtual schools within schools in which predominantly white students are isolated from the rest of their peers. However, figures recently compiled by the

administration prove what any student here already knows: Enrollment of minority students in upper-level classes is becoming increasingly proportional to their enrollment in the entire school.

“We have a very unique and special situation,” said Assistant International Baccaleaurate Coordinator Virginia Hale. “There’s not too many places in the country

where we get an opportunity like this.”

Unique as it is, the school never directly pursued the effect of increased minority representation in upper-level classes. “Our goal was never really to encourage minorities,” said IB Coordinator Erin Albright. “What counselors “Enrollment” cont’d on p. 5

“Funding” cont’d on p. 5

Chorus holds concert

by Rachel Jones Staff Writer

The choral department is ending its year on a high note. All choruses attended the North American Music Festival in Toronto, Canada on May 3 and won several top awards. Immediately following their return, the choruses performed during Flex. They will also be performing a spring concert and recital.

The choral department continued its outstanding year with another first place finish. During their spring trip to the North America Music Festival in Toronto, Canada, three of the choruses received superior ratings and the Concert Choir earned an excellent rating.

Annandale’s orchestra also attended the Music Festival and earned a first place finish.

“Going to Canada was...a rewarding experience...We did really well, and I was

glad we won the sweepstakes award,” said sophomore Donald Martin, who is in Annandale Singers.

Superior is the highest possible rating and was achieved by the Women’s Ensemble, Annandale Singers and Men’s Choral. In addition to winning superior ratings Annandale Singers and Women’s Ensemble received first place awards in their divisions.

Women’s Ensemble also won the prestigious “Outstanding Choral Ensemble Award” for receiving the highest score at the festival.

“I am really proud of Women’s Ensemble,” said choral director Carleen Dixon. “They finally get the recognition that they deserve.”

The chorus won an additional award; “Choral Sweepstakes Award,” for having the two highest scoring choruses at the festival.

“Everything went really well. It was a really positive trip,” said Dixon. “The kids sang beautifully.”

CHAE-WHA PARK

On May 9, Womens’ Ensemble and Mens’ Chorale sang parts of their award-winning repetoire during Flex.

The Annandale Singers also performed.

The recognition the chorus received is an acknowledgment of all the hard work and dedication the chorus has been doing all year.

“I am proud to be a group that does so consistently well,” said junior Michael Weinberg, who is in Annandale Singers.

The first day in Canada, the singers went

Waitlisting sometimes hollow

by Junaid Shams Staff Writer

Got waitlisted? Few years ago, getting waitlisted to a top-ranked school was impressive. It meant that you were up there with the elite students in the country. It meant that you were good enough not to be rejected.

Then you would fill out the little form that said whether or not you wanted to remain on the list. Still you were delighted, not completely thrilled, that you were waitlisted. Well, how times have changed.

Everywhere you look, you find a person who has been waitlisted to some college. Whether it is James Madison or Duke, people are getting waitlisted more than ever. Some colleges are even wait listing more people than they are accepting. According to the The Washington Post, last year Columbia University sent out more wait-list letters, 1,896, than acceptance letters, 1,749, making its waitlist 108 percent of its “College” cont’d on p. 5

w

to see the musical “Lion King.” Despite the previous thirteen-hour bus ride singers still found the show enjoyable. “Lion King was a really good show, but everyone was tired,” said junior Alex Mott, who is in Women’s “Chorus” cont’d on p. 5

Literary mag includes CD

by Wala’a Elbarasse Staff Writer

SARAH SHERMAN

Senior Nicholas Crowley reviews several of his college options. Many seniors’ college prospects are hanging on waitlists.

“Move” cont’d on p. 5

On Monday, June 3, students who purchased the yearbook will receive the usual video yearbook and the literary magazine, The Filament, that comes along with it. But they will be pleasantly surprised to see the new addition of a CD, titled “The Filament”, that includes 8 tracks of various AHS students showing off their vocal and intellectual talent.

“The 8 tracks include jazz, techno, rock, poem reading, and acappella,” said Maria C. Menocal, business manager of The Filament. Acappella is singing without instrumental accompaniment.

As business manager, Menocal’s responsibilities are to take care of the payments for the cd

duplication, which took place at Oasis CD, and arrange studio times for the students to come in and perform.

The owner’s of the studio Bias Recording, Bob and Gloria Dawson, that produced the cd are parents of a student at AHS. “They helped us out a lot,” said third year Filament advisor Felicidad Hunt. ”We got a good deal on the cd, but I’m sure it’s over $1000, we got it for about $600 and we also got free time for recording,” said Hunt.

The idea of a CD was first introduced to Hunt when she attended a workshop in California with the current co-editor in chief of The Filament.

“We went to a workshop in the Spring of last “Filament” cont’d on p. 5

hat’s inside

3

9 Check out a commentary on Hawaiian Geometry.

Review a variety of local ethnic restaurants in Cultures.

18

Spiderman broke box office records in its opening weekeend. Find out if this movie swings or misses.

20 The HFStival is just around the corner.

Check out what to expect this year.

2

Tornado warnings not sufficient Siren system would go a long way in providing forewarning

aBlast

the

Tuesday, May 21, 2002

ALL PHOTOS BY KATHY SAUPP

The formidable forces of nature were evident on April 28th, as an F4 tornado swept through the unassuming town of LaPlata, Maryland,

Student admission Affirmative Action ruling THE COURT — The sixth U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals decided the case Gratz v.

University of Michigan Law School.

The destructive tornado that ravaged LaPlata, Maryland on the 28th of April, wreaked havoc on cars, trees, buildings and any other unfortunate objects that stood in its path.

leaving 3 dead and 70 injured in the 10 mile path of destruction. In the storm’s aftermath, the citizens of this small town and others around it are left as windswept as the now-bare trees that line the horizon. The storm that spawned the tornado struck LaPlata quickly, and many of the deaths and injuries can be attributed to the fact that many citizens were unaware of the impending danger.

During a time in this country where we claim to be prepared for

HISTORICAL RULINGS — In the 1978 case Regents of the University of California v. Bakke, it was ruled that taking race into consideration to create a diverse student body was justified.

DECISION — The court ruled that race can be taken into consideration for student admissions.

attack, this should not be a problem.

Nature can be as deadly and unpredictable as any aggressive assault, and the tragedy in LaPlata has proven that the television and radio warning system is not adequate. By installing a widespread warning system, authorities could more

THE APPEAL — The case will be appealed to the Supreme Court, setting up one some believe will be the biggest Civil Rights ruling in 25 years.

EFFECT — The ruling applies to the University of Michigan Law School and all of the other public institutions in the court’s region.

CORRECTIONS The A-Blast published the following mistakes in Issue 12 on May 1, 2002

same: notify everyone, regardless of where they were or what they were doing, of impending danger as early as possible. After the 28th, the cost of a warning system seems trivial when compared to the value of a human life.

Ample warning time proves vital, and the National Weather Service issues a warning an average of 11.5 minutes before a tornado strikes. On quickly and effectively notify citizens the 28th, the tornado struck LaPlata in the event of an emergency, and 8 minutes after the warning was would prevent the useless and tragic issued. Unfortunately, many locals loss of life. saw and heard the bulletins just in As was proven the weekend of the time to see the funnel bearing down 28th, the storms that produce tornaon them. A siren system blares at 120 does do so quickly and decibels and can be with little or no heard a half-mile to a THE A-BLAST STAFF EDITORIAL warning. With these mile away, unlike the severe thunderstorms, A siren system must beeping bulletins called “supercells”, be implemented, that sporadically as it is essential in meteorologists dont crawl across the providing advanced have the luxury of Yes warnings to combat No television screens being able to give 44 tornado casualties. 15 throughout regularly predictions days in scheduled programadavance. There is no ming. time to name a supercell, or to give While scientists are constantly citizens in its path time to buy trying to find ways to make the plywood and cover their windows like in a hurricane. The strongest winds in tornado warning system faster and more reliable, for now, the siren a tornado rival hurricane strength, system is the best response. Although reaching an excess of 300 miles per it may be used less often in a state hour and destroying everything in their paths.

With all of the evidence of the destructive power of these storms, what is the explanation for the lack of action taken to notify those in danger?

Although television and radio warning systems did post alerts, not everyone was tuned in. In addition, locals explain that the cable system in LaPlata was not functioning properly, and left them with little or no way to recieve vital warning information.

However, these variables could be easily counteracted by a simple, widespread warning system. In the area of the country known as “Tornado Alley”, land running through Texas, Oklahoma and Kansas, the Civil Defense system installed a network of sirens that sound off when a tornado forms.

Installed every two miles in a populated area, each siren can cost between $18 and $21,000 each, and are controlled by a central computer system manned by local emergency employees. While this seems a costly institution in the eastern region of the United States and areas like LaPlata where tornadoes are less frequent, the goals of a siren system would be the

— Junior Eric Rooney was elected as a Senator, not Secretary as it said on page 1 in, “Class representatives chosen”

— Senior Fatema Sarker was misidentified as a junior on page 13 in, “IB Art holds exibit”

the

Teachers in motion

editorials

A A D F

Throughout the tumultuous construction, teachers have exhibited great flexibility and cooperation. After only limited forewarning, in some cases only four days, teachers in the math wing and foreign language/business hall were asked to pack up and move out in the midst of one of the most chaotic times of year. One again, AHS teachers going beyond the call of duty.

Alternative final exams awesome As students are being forced to endure a rigorous end of the year exam schedule including AP, IB, SOLs and IGSCE tests, many teachers are opting to forego giving regular end of the year final exams. Instead, culminating activities such as oral presentations, projects and experiments are being given. These alternatives offer an adequate assesment of the knowledge that students have obtained over the year, and are greatly appreciated by test weary students.

Female W.W. II pilots deserve recognition Great disparity exsists between how males and females are honored for their heroic efforts in W.W. II. In particular, the Women Airforce Service Pilots, an organization formed to answer the call of duty for additional pilots, has not been permitted to have its courageous members buried in Arlington National Cemetary like their male counterparts.

These women played a crucial part of the war effort and deserve equal recognition.

Single sex education plan pointless Recently, George W. Bush advocated single sex public schools and classes, in an effort to promote better learning environments, especially for girls studying math and science. This is not an effective strategy, because in the real world the sexes are not separated, and it is imperative that social skills be developed to interact with the opposite sex. Further, the measure is unnecessary. Girls are already significantly out performing males academically, as a national trend has developed in which there is a greater female to male ratio in college.

— Antonio Taylor freshman

“I don’t think that students are pressured by colleges, I think it is their choice to take those classes.”

“Yes, now that is all acceptance is based on, and parents pressure you to get into college.”

like Maryland, if the siren can save one person from unnecessary injury or death, that alone makes the entire system worthwhile.

—Staff Editorial written by Kathy Saupp, staff writer

— Maram Ali sophomore

“Yeah dude, I feel really pressured so I’m just not gonna go to college.”

Fast and Furious Facts

— Senior Matt Wolff’s name was misspelled on page 20 in “Atomic Reactions”

Gr ade

“Yes, because teachers and parents want us to go to a good college.”

— Chrissy Castaldo sophomore

misidentified. Ann Harper appeared in the picture on page 5 in “Classes canceled due to lack of interest,” not Joyce Weinstein — Junior Mike Nakamura was misidentified as a sophomore on page 15 in “Boys tennis poised to reach new heights this season”

M akin’

Do you feel that students are prematurely pressured into taking higher level class such as A.P. and I.B. to get into the college of their choice?

—Tornados are measured on the Fujita scale, with F1 being the weakest and F5 being the strongest —The U.S. has more tornados than any other country in the world, almost 1,000 a year.

— Brent Sullivan sophomore

—They are formed when hot and cold air current collide.

— Photography teacher Scott Saylor was misnamed on page 1 in “Atoms logo races down speedways”

— Art teachers Ann Harper and Joyce Weinstein were

a

tomic reactions

— To be classified as a tornado, the funnel winds must be atleast 85 miles per hour — Their winds can be up to 250 miles per hour.

—Fairfax County Schools are required to perform annual tornado drils

a

the Annandale High School 4700 Medford Dr. Annandale, Virginia 22003 Volume # 47 Issue 13

Editors in Chief Managing Editor News Editors Academics Editors Editorials Editors In-Depth Editors Features Editors Atomic Articles Editor Profiles Editors Cultures Editors Sports Editors Entertainment Editors Atomic Athletics Editors

Wednesday May 21, 2002

David Covucci Shant Shahrigian Chris Hogeboom Reid Edwards Philippe Podhorecki Hayley Fletcher Hana Ngyuen Katie Clark Andrew Satten Heather Downen Rebecca Sample Young-Zi Byun Sarah Kelman Chae-Wha Park Denice Miller Richie McCormick Martha Amoaka Cameron Kynes Chris Bagot Ryan Croft Alejandro Salinas Mike Mahn Kristie Moore

Gallup Award Quill and Scroll International Honor Society 2000-2001

Blast

“No, I think nowadays colleges look at various activities and and higher qualifications like classes, sports and G.P.A.”

— Jose Varela junior

(703) 642-4229 email: ahsablast@aol.com website: www.fpcs.k12.va.us /AnnandaleHS/ABlast/2002 fax: 642-4197

Arts Editors

Rebecca Kraushaar Abby Segall Weekend Editors John Bernhardt Caroline Friedman On-line Editors Monica Price Leah Selim Business Ryan Teichler Advertising Manager Crystan Blanco Copy Editor Katie Stanton Photography Editor Jenny Beam Photographers: Sean Sullivan, Andrew Menegat, Sarah Sherman, Linda Fairall Staff Writers: Junaid Shams, Paul Gleason, Saman Hussain, Rachel Jones, Maggie Owner, Evan Ashe, Sam Molavi, Annette Bouadi, Rob Payne, Walaa Elbarasse, Aminah Kakeh, ShinHyung Ahn, Kyle Smeallie, Lauren Sterlacci, Morgan McEvilly, Mohammad Edris Qarghah, Laura Hollowell, Sara Bizer, Jared Smith, Katharine Kishiyama, Kathy Saupp, N’hawa Tangula Principal Don Clausen Adviser Alan Weintraut

Trophy Class Virginia High School League 2000-2001

All American National Scholastic Press Association 2000-2001

Published every three weeks, The A-Blast is an award winning, newspaper that strives to inform, educate, and entertain the student body and community. 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, 2002.

editorials

Leave Hawaiian Geometry in Hawaii

Therapeutic Cloning Ban is Criminal

Alternative approach shouldn’t be forced upon all studentsit isn’t universally beneficial

w

Four years at AHS...

Since I joined The A-Blast as InDepth Editor in my sophomore year, I dreamed of writing a final column at the end of my senior year. The column would succinctly and panoramically capture all of my thoughts about high school. Now that I approach the task, I realize that the proverbial high school experience hardly lends itself to panoramic scales.

After all, what is high school but a series of awkward events? In this spirit, I present you with a random collection of high school thoughts.

Shantsense: This seems like an appropriate subject to start with. Okay, maybe I didn’t put as much time into this as I would have liked. That sophomore In-Depth Editor I was just talking about probably wouldn’t have been so pleased. At any rate, I hope that some readers enjoyed it.

Sports: I love ’em, and so do you.

Even if you aren’t the apogee of athleticism, or, as I heard Coach Adams earnestly call a student one day in Weight Training class, “a Greek god,” you might as well take a shot at at least ONE season of high school sports.

Setting aside the character (not to continue the abuse of the word) which a sport like football just might instill in even the most apathetic, sports really are a good way to meet students you otherwise never would, see a different side of AHS, and more.

Rap music: I was never a fan of the genre in my middle school days. When I was a rising freshman, my older sister (who had then just graduated from J.E.B. Stuart) prophesied that with my enrollment in AHS and participation on the football team, rap would grow on me in no time. And she was right. Anyway, I ask my fellow rap fans to see the movie CB4, which stars Chris Rock. The premise is funnier than the execution, but it gets the point across.

Religion: I used to hold cynical views like “where science ends, religion begins,” but the only conclusion that I can make about the subject now is that it plays too little a role in the lives of high school students; if religion is a cornerstone of civilization, where does that leave us? Minutes of silence are

abhorrent, but I believe students need to be tuned to their spirituality just as much as, if not more than, they need academic knowledge.

Academics: Here I find a stark contrast between some of my experiences with certain teachers and where I believe AHS is heading overall. A lesson I was foolish not to accept during my freshman through junior years (I was lucky with the teachers I got this year) is that teachers can set their professionalism aside when a student gets on their bad side. While I had many good and even a few inspirational teachers, among those who I managed to get on the “bad side” of: One mocked my physical

Shantsense

Shant Shahrigian Co-Editor in Chief

appearance and repeatedly led the class in calling me “not American,” and another discouraged a Prom date from going with me and told me that I was “slightly, SLIGHTLY above average.” A few others did similar things which were more subtle or that I have simply forgotten. Such comments may have been initially provoked by something on my part, but their delivery and obvious reflection in my grades were still outrageous.

But my experience was unique. What I see around me is different. I believe that within several years, the school will have become a standard of national excellence. The dynamic administration is on its way to making the school one in which students of every nationality benefit from a challenging curriculum catered to their needs. Taking into account the potential for students such as myself to bring out the worst in some

teachers, AHS will be as close to perfect as any school can get.

Future reference: In this year’s yearbook, there will be a picture of me.

Not just the traditional senior picture, but one from long ago. In an effort to slander my good name, an agent (who shall here remain nameless) has seen to it that the yearbook receive a picture of me as a baby and a corny accompanying quote. Please disregard both the photo and the quote, as neither were authorized by me.

Morning announcements: “Good morning, Annandale High School. Here are today’s announcements, to be mildly peppered with subtle comments and sarcastic addendum to teachers’ messages. They may or may not be funny, and their extemporaneous recitation will depend upon whether or not ‘we’ at the morning announcements are in a good mood or not...” I was about to ask what the big deal was that caused me (and for those of you who did not know: [with comic-book flair] the mildmannered student you know as Shant is in fact... the Morning Announcer!) to get fired, but I realize that that would be a rhetorical question. I can see how frequent deviations, however truly inoffensive, from the status quo could get under the faculty’s collective skin.

And oh, how they did. Still, my only regret is that, if I had to be fired, I wish it was for doing something cooler than just endorsing a candidate for the class of 2003 presidency and telling a peer that he owes me five dollars. Speaking of which... he still does! Says something about the impact of my announcements.

Well, that’s all for Shantsense.

Foresight is never 20/20, but I think that years from now I’ll look back upon my experiences at AHS and see that the good outweigh the bad. For those of you who think that you won’t, my only comment is that I was in the exact same shoes as you during my early days here and found that no high school obstacle is insurmountable if you apply yourself.

But positive experience or no, the words of the Roman poet Horace ring loudly in my head: Eheu, fugaces labuntur anni.

Sa tten ’s

t

matters concerning travel.

Racial profiling isolates one group of people, alienating thousands. Doing so decreases the amount of cooperation the Last September, the “sleeping giant” was violently awoken. government can expect from these groups.

However, in its grogginess, its inattentiveness has caused itself One of the founding principles upon which this nation was yet more damage. Our fear of airport security deficiencies has founded, as stated in the Declaration of Independence is that led to a careless disregard to the rights of individuals.

“All men are created equal.” On the contrary, by allowing Yvonne Scruggs-Leftwich requested pre-boarding because racial profiling we are stating that one race of people, out of her arthritis makes boarding an arduous process. Rather then the hundreds of varieties found in our country, poses more of a accommodate the ailing woman, she was pulled aside because threat to us than any other. This is not only a racist assumpshe had apparently been selected for a “random” search. She tion but an inaccurate and dangerous one as well. Almost had, however, already passed through security. She, being of any person is capable of committing atrocious Arab complexion, has been stopped as many as crimes. We cannot allow our resources to be 20 times since September 11. devoted to any one individual group without e need to assure, for Our government has authorized “random” turning a bit of a blind eye on other potential our security as well as luggage and body searches at airports. The threats. liberty to perform random searches has given our principles, that civil rights Just recently, Richard C. Reid, a British airport security personnel the ability to national, attempted to light a shoe bomb on an are not trampled upon. arbitrarily search any whom they deem airplane. Should we start searching every “suspicious.”

British person to walk on board a plane?

In some cases airports have instituted a policy of searching Perhaps we should simply stop all those who have similar those who fit a particular description, one that, according to physical features to Reid. officials, does not distinguish ethnicity or religion.

The Transportation Department considers the forceful The Transportation Department has sent two memoranremoval of a passenger’s religious apparel (e.g. scarf, turban) dums to transportation centers, since September 11, to remind to be a violation of that person’s rights. It is only authorized if them that discrimination is prohibited under federal civil there is evidence of concealed materials, such as if a metal rights laws. detector is triggered and the cause can’t be determined.

This is not sufficient. There is need of a better monitor for Even now, religious attire is only to be removed in the those who enforce the policy. Hundreds of complaints regardpresence of a person of the same gender in a private room. ing racial profiling have been filed against airport security This rule have been violated innumerable times since Septemsince September 11, and countless others remain unreported. ber 11, attracting a good deal of media attention. Little or Racial profiling is unacceptable and though we do not condone nothing has been done in regards to these violations save it, we should not continue to allow it either. “pending investigations.”

In the wake of September 11, increasing national and, We need a powerful internal affairs division of airport particularly, airport security is imperative. This necessity for security, as in police departments. We need to assure, for our security, however, does not make racial profiling acceptable, security as well as our principles, that civil rights are not nor does it give those enforcing the security a carte blanche for trampled upon.

By Mohammad Edris Qarghah Staff Editor

an

Racial profiling unacceptable

Sl

BY CHAE-WHA PARK AND ANDREW SATTEN

A woman goes for a walk, and it begins to rain. She is not wearing a hat or carrying an umbrella. As she continues to walk, her shoes and clothes get wet, but her hair does not get wet. How can this be?

“I don’t care why her hair doesn’t get wet and what does this have to do with geometry” I remember thinking to myself during my first day at AHS in my geometry class. To my bewilderment, as I flipped through our binder of problems, I discovered an entire year’s worth of math problems based on logic, manipulating shapes, and other spatial and critical thinking skills. I promptly switched into a more traditional geometry class that taught proofs, theorems and other basic geometry concepts through more traditional methods.

The class that I was randomly enrolled in, Hawaiian Geometry, is taught every year to a portion of the students who sign up to simply take Geometry, unaware that they are actually being placed in a course that takes a radically different Editorials Editor approach to the subject. At AHS, Donna Erickson teaches two honors sections along with Joel Cooley and Eunae Ko who teach regular classes. The class curriculum for Hawaiian Geometry, developed by W. Gary Martin, teaches a “process approach to high school geometry.” Hawaiian Geometry offers students a more interactive role in math as they discover the concepts of geometry on their own. “The only thing that is different is the approach, all the material is covered,” said Erickson. Topics include translations, property of shapes and angles, and are addressed through a binder of word problems. Daily class revolves around a teacher guided discussion as students present and explain the solutions to problems.

Though this class addresses some important elements of mathematics such as logical and constructive thinking skills, it is not an effective approach for all students. This radical learning style, tremendously different than a traditional geometry class, is not a one learning style fits all class. Though highly effective and esteemed by many students, for others it provides only frustration and leads students to fall behind in their studies. Hawaiian Geometry should no longer be forced upon students, but should be offered as a math elective for those students that take interest in critical thinking math problems and wish to further develop their skills in this Hawaiian area.

Geometry, The with its administration’s alternative policy teaching style regarding utilizes an altogether different placement sort of text book. in Hawaiian Geometry is unfair to students and must be revised. When students complete their course selection forms, there are only two options regarding this level of math, geometry and honors IGSCE geometry. Nevertheless, at the beginning of every school year, students find themselves enrolled in a completely different math class than what they signed up for, as the administration just randomly places students in Hawaiian Geometry, without offering any forewarning.

Students in Hawaiian Geometry are only issued a binder which solely contains word problems. There are no chapters which offer any explanation on how to do the problems. “You don’t feel like you have enough guidance,” said sophomore Charlie Dickinson. Consequently, some students do not “choose to discover geometry” on their own or do not have the time to ponder and think through each problem as the class’ idealistic approach demands, and are turned off from math. Some students desire a more structured class which covers the concepts of geometry in a more traditional fashion. When students sign up for geometry, that is the class they should be placed in, not a class that spends a year solving puzzles and tracing pictures of a bird’s diagonal path reflected in a lake (another one of my favorite problems).

Andrew Satten

Questions in the Hawaiian Geometry text packet, like this one, feature practical problems. The class still intends to teach Geometry concepts, but the process is less painful than traditional Geometry because students don’t get the impression they are learning a difficult math concept.

The skills taught in geometry are crucial to following levels of math. Many students who took Hawaiian Geometry instead of geometry, even though both classes address the same issues, feel disadvantaged and are confused when topics such as conics, trigonometry and angles are quickly covered in Algebra II, Trig Math Analysis and IB Math classes, as the concepts they had previously learned assume a completely different form. “Now that I am in Algebra 2, I don’t feel as if I have as strong a geometry foundation as I would like,” said sophomore Erin O’brien.

The Hawaiian Geometry system at AHS must be revised as it is unfair to students and is not an effective teaching method for all students.

The other side of the story: The positives of Hawaiian Geometry CURRICULUM — All fundamental geometry concepts are covered, and “students get every formula, but it is not painful because they don’t even know it,” said Donna Erickson.

SOL SUCCESS — Last year, Erickson had a 100% pass rate for her two honors sections (statistics were not available for the regular sections).

POSITIVE STUDENT COMMENTS — “I like the class, its energetic and there is always a discussion,” said freshman Brandon Flowers.

— “They let us come to our own conclusions,” said freshman Tina Douroudian — “I see my friends in regular geometry struggling to memorize formulas and trying to remember too many things,” said freshman Amogh Sivarapatna.

CLASS BENEFITS — Makes students think differently and logically.

— Students leave the class with confidence after having to stand up in front of their peers and explain their solutions.

— Students work together in teams COMMENT TO SATTEN — After spending only three days in the class, it was not given a fair evaluation; should have stayed for the year.

aBlast

the

Tuesday, May 21, 2002

3

4 a

the

Blast

Tuesday, May 21, 2002

MAY BIRTHDAYS May 15— Jack Bartuska 17 Amanda Bassa 14 Andrew Evatt 16 Chanh Le 16 Hibo Malin 16 Christopher Owens 17 Nasima Raufi 17 Rahmo Wardere 19 May 16— John Appleton 16 Sherabeel Khan 16 David Marin 17 Alejandro Parra 16 Rachelle Returco 16 May 17— Xiomara Crespin 20 Syed Hossain 17 Heather McDonald 18 Joycelyne Thompson 18 May 18— Miguel Acevedo 15 Daniel Haddad 17 Lydia Hagen 15 Stephanie Halkyard 16 Matthew Halkyard 16 Hawar Muhammad 17 Christopher Walters 15 May 19— Seth Bruning Mateosky 16 Tina Douroudian-Tafreshi 15 Mohamed Elmubarak Imam 20 Lindsey Grant 17 Mildred Hernandez 15 Ashleigh Wayland 17 May 20— Victoria Accinelli 16 Daniel Heider 15 Laura Kelly 15 Davis Murillo 16 May 21— Crystan Blanco 17 Aitezaz Hassan 16 Irfan Hussain 16 Erin Lutz 18 Fanta Moses 19 Phuong Thao Nguyen 17 Colleen Nolan 15 Juan Padilla Ayala 19 May 22— Melanie Bartnek 18 John Kahng 15 Viriya May 17 Anousack Sengmany 15 May 23— Gregory Loewer 16 Jennifer Stewart 17 May 24— Katharine Haines 16 Sarah Kelman 18 Crystal Kim 16 Marian McLaughlin 15 May 25— Kristina Daggs 17 Brian Fields 15 Gena Fortune 18 Alpha Jalloh 17 Christa Kasdorf 15 Hyuk Ji Kwon 18 David Mahen 16 Kevin Ocampo Arias 18 May 26— James Alvarez 15 Paul Durning 18 Sharlene Sausal 16 May 27— Sharie Rose Baldoz 15 Kara Brostrom 18 Diana Bustamante 16 July Chanez 18 Diem Le 18 Samantha Muchmore 15 Hana Nguyen 17 Abigail Segall 16 Paige Singh 18 Dajun White 18 May 28— Safaa Alhanash 17 Jessica Gray 15 Wilian Guardado-Menjivar 16 Ariel Iriarte 19 Alvaro Luna 17 May 29— Aziza Dang 16 Minh Doan 19 Maya Francis 15 Roberto Lanza-Escoto 20 Jessica Miranda-Segovia 16 Mohad Mohamed 19 Nicole Murphy 18 Wuar Sa Dalla 19 Erik Seubert 17

SOLs administered

Yearbooks to be distributed

By Evan Ashe Staff writer

“The SOLs aren’t something you think about a lot,” said sophomore Jason Bracken, “but in the back of your mind you’re always thinking ‘If I fail this, I might not graduate.’”

Bracken’s views on the Standard of Learning tests are not uncommon among AHS freshmen and sophomores. While the SOLs do not count for this year’s junior and senior classes, if members of the ’04 and ’05 classes do not pass them, students will not receive credit for the course.

“I think they’re not fair because some people don’t test well,” said sophomore Shakara Le Count. Other students do feel the tests aren’t intimidating at all despite the consequences that will be faced if they are not passed.

“They’re elementary,” said sophomore Oscar Ycaza. “The questions are worded easily and none of them are on things that weren’t covered in class. SOLs aren’t something worth loosing sleep over.”

The school system has been criticized because people feel that SOL tests represent a student’s performance on merely one day.

However, students who need to pass the test to get verified credit for a course and do not pass the test on their first attempt may retake the test at any subsequent schedule administration, whether they are enrolled in the course or not.

For the school to get credit for passing the SOLs in a subject area, a minimum of 70 percent of students must pass the exams.

In 2001, scores improved in all courses when compared to the scores recorded in the Spring of 2000. The largest improvement was made in US history as scores in 2000 reflected a passing rate of 40.05%. In 2001, however, scores had risen to a passing rate of 60.53%.

Another large improvement last year took place in the Algebra II SOLs. The 2000 scores held a percent passing rate of 50.91.

Last year, however, the scores rose 19.72% to a passing rate of 70.63%. Large improvements were also made last year in

by Saman Hussain Staff Writer

ANDREW MENEGAT

Freshman Christine Cox takes the SOL test.

Chemistry, World History, and Geometry SOLs. Testing began last Monday and will continue until Friday, May 31. The final SOL make up date is scheduled for Monday, June 3. SOL testing is being administered on many of the same days as AP, IB, and IGCSE tests.

With the end of the 2001-2002 school year in sight, these tests are one of the final obstacles before students are set free for the summer.

The yearbook is going to offer “Something a Little Bit Different,” as is suggested by its theme. The staff has taken on a unique approach towards the cover of the yearbook.

As opposed to the customary entirely black or entirely red, this year the upper three quarters of the cover is going to be a light, thin cloth-like material, while the remaining quarter is covered by a mysterious red and black marble design.

On this portion will be carved the title/theme, Something a Little Bit Different. The book itself is going to be considerably reduced in size and will be approximately 300 pages long.

Students are encouraged to purchase a yearbook since they will receive a “special package” with it. This will include the first-ever student produced AHS CD. The CD has been coordinated by the contributions of talented young musicians ranging from R&B and techno to gospel, rock and Spanish poetry. The package will also consist of the Filament magazine and the Signal video yearbook. The last day to purchase this package with a check is May 23.

The yearbooks will be distributed on June 3 for seniors, who will pick them up in the cafeteria from 4 p.m. to 5 p.m. before Senior Night. Due to back-to-back examinations along with graduation just around the corner, juniors are going to get the opportunity to get their yearbooks on the same night from 5 p.m. to 6 p.m.

All students should bring ID and a yearbook receipt with them. Purchases on the evening of June 3 must be made with cash or a money order. The remaining underclassmen however, will have to wait until the following day to receive their yearbooks.

Students perform community service for class requirements

by Shin-hyung Ahn Staff Writer

Tests are almost over, and the month of June is around the corner. The finish line is just barely visible...but wait, the words ”community service” pop up in your head. That’s right, its that time of year again, when juniors and seniors are rushing around to gather the last few hours of their required community service hours for classes and for clubs.

All over the school, students are worrying about the ten hours due in one club, 15 hours due in a class, and five more due in another. “I’m worried about it because I want to bring my GPA up by fourth quarter,” said senior Hae-Sung Lee, who is tutoring children in hopes of helping with their school work.

“I don’t want to be a slacker. I only have seven hours, because of the AP tests I haven’t been able to do other things, so I hope I can finish the rest of the eight hours by June.”

Some students have already completed their required hours at various locations, ahead of deadlines, enjoying the leisure of finishing work early. “I feel great because I know I don’t have to worry about looking for a place to get community service hours even though there are a lot of places that need help,” said senior Shukri Ahmed, who has worked in Braddock Elementary and homes for the elderly.

However, most other students are still in the process of finishing up the few remaining hours in local areas and organizations. Student volunteer work ranges anywhere from tutoring other students to helping the homeless, with public library and nursing homes located somewhere in the middle.

“Well they usually go to organizations like Habitat for Humanity, food shelters, homeless shelters...a lot of kids have gone to political organizations,” said Government teacher Scott

Hambrick. Senior Kristine Kim currently volunteers at the George Mason Regional Library shelving books and working behind the circulation desk to finish up her 15 hours for Government.

Despite the fact that the service hours are required, many students feel the need to go back out to the community to help out but are often bound by time restrictions. “Since I was little, my father has always been saying ‘you should help out others’ so I’ve always tried,” said Lee. “It’s just that I can’t find the time because I have to help my parents with their business, and I have to keep up with school work so with the little time I have, I try but I guess the most I have done is tutoring little kids and things like that.”

“Some students view the service hours as more of an annoyance than service,” said Hambrick. Other students view their volunteer work as an opportunity to learn parts about life that they can not find anywhere else. “You learn how important society is, how things go around without getting paid,” said Kim. “You start from the bottom and you work your way up and you realize many things.”

“I have learned to help elderly people...I know how elderly people feel,” said Ahmed. “I also helped librarians put books on shelves and I know how their job feels.” With all the different clubs and classes, students must remember the guidelines provided by each when it comes to what counts for hours and what doesn’t. In some cases, teachers allow service hours to be ‘shared’ among other clubs and in others, teachers don’t. Some teachers also have a strict policy of giving credit only if all of the hours have been fulfilled, giving zeros if not all of the hours are turned in. Other teachers are a bit more lenient, giving partial credit for the number of hours completed.

ANDREW MENEGAT

Sophomore Nick Veizaga puts sticks in a trash can for community service.

Student filmakers to display work June 3

by Saman Hussain Staff Writer

Writing scripts, planning plots and postproducing movies for over three months, Film Study students will put on their filmproducing skills for display in the auditorium at the annual Film Festival on June 3.

The festival will last two hours beginning at 7 p.m., during which 14 original movies will be viewed by an audience of students and judges, each paying $3 to get in.

A jury of five judges including Principal Don Clausen, Randall Blair from American University and Cynthia Geary, an independent film producer, will pick out students with outstanding movies and the latter will receive Jury Prize and Jury Prize Runners Up awards accordingly.

The audience will have the opportunity to reward the films to their choice by voting for them to recieve the Audience Choice and Audience Choice Runner Up awards.

“I think we have the potential to win an award,” said senior Shelley Selim.

Selim, along with senior Rebecca Sample, are filming a parody of the classical comedy Ferris Bueler’s Day Off. “We’ve done a lot of shooting, around ten times, and it’s been really fun,” said Selim. “The fact that I’m doing it with a friend makes it even more enjoyable.”

Most students this year have chosen to make comedies since they’re generally popular and easily made. Senior David Fishman is taking his comedy to another level by using toys as characters in his verson of Godzilla.

“People are difficult so we gave up on them,” said Fishman. “We’re using toys because they don’t make mistakes and do what you want them to do.” His group began shooting two weeks ago and have finished their movie, which is approximately three minutes long.

A more Charlie Chaplin like approach is being taken by junior Shabier Bahramy and sophomore Brent Sullivan, in their silent flick about a door to door salesman. “We didn’t

Wanna great car? Need a change?

May 30— Osvaldo Garcia 18 Mohamoud Hamud 17 Crystal Nguyen 16

Car Stereos, Alarms and TV systems

n ews

May 31— Francisco Medrano 19 Myra Qureshi 17 Amanda Sheaffer 16 Lluvi Vigil 16

Sunroof USA Jong Il Park 3722 Old Silver Spring Hill Rd. Suitland, MD 20746 (301) 423 - 3200

REID EDWARDS

Junior Erik Rooney acts as a crocodile hunter in “Keithimus Hunter.”

have a script on the due date, so we decided to make a silent movie, but I think our actors and their talents make the movie special,” said Bahramy. The movies made by students

aBlast

the

NS

DICK ADAMS

NEIGHBORHOOD SERVICES

(703) 830 - 6342 cell (703) 625 - 1290

Mowing, Yard Work, Gutter Cleaning, Leaf Rmoval

Hong K. Kim 703-624-0788 7901 Dassett Ct. #101 Annandale, Va 22003

Check out the The A-Blast website!

H.K.’s Classic Construction Co. http://www.fcps.k12va.us/AnnandaleHS/ABlast/2002

NEIGHBORHOOD SERVICES

will be counted as their final grade.

After “pitching” ideas with other people in class, getting suggestions for various plots and writing a treatment (a one to two page summary) of their film, preparations for the festival are in full swing.

Students are encouraged to use as much creativity and skill as possible in their ten minute time limit, however, there are some boundaries.

“The movies should basically be PG,” said Film Studies teacher Alan Weintraut. “In most cases profanity is relative to the movie, but there’s always a way to be funny without being vulgar.”

Those who chose not to direct movies have turned to alternatives like acting, writing the script, lighting and helping out behind the scenes. “Every year everything gets better, last year we had two editors [machines] and this year we have four,” said Film Study teacher Alan Weintraut. “We have very good equipment and I just think these guys are doing a great job.”

Rodney J. Klima, D.D.S., P.C. Orthodontist Practice Limited to Orthodontics for Adults and Children 5204 B Lyngate Court Burke, Va 220015 (703) 425 - 5125

Home improvement, Siding, Capping Wood, Replacement Windows and Doors.

Little River Haircutters ATTENTION: To our customers, effective April 8th 2002, our new shop hours will be: Mon-Fri 9am-6pm Sat 8am-5pm Sun Closed 7446 Little River Tnpk Annandale VA 22003 703-941-9797 We would like to thank you for your continued business

“Funding” from pg. 1 Farrar said, “How is the county going to increase the number of minority students enrolled in the IB or AP programs if the students don’t enroll, in fear that they won’t be able to pay for their tests at the end of the year?”

Pre-IB Coordinator Virginia Hale said, “There would be many students who would be reluctant to put that kind of financial stress on their parents.” The principle behind public schools is to provide free and quality education to all people. “Economic status should not bar anyone from these courses,” said Sobel, “especially because the IB program is designed to give any student who has the ability the chance to participate in in-depth learning and gain a larger view of the world.” The cost of AP and IB exams can also be a psychological turnoff. “Students may decide not to take a chance with the course if money is attached to the challenge, or may see it as a monetary burden for their families,” Sobel said. It was also proposed to reduce the price of the exam for those who receive free or reduced lunch, effectively helping all those FCPS feels requires financial support.

Sobel and Farrar encouraged students to speak out about the proposed fees. Sobel said, “The more letters they receive and the more they hear in protest to the new policy, the better the chance that they will vote against the proposal.”

Honors classes diverse “Enrollment” from pg. 1 and teachers were doing was encouraging all students... to challenge themselves.”

Figures on minority enrollment are “a great sign of a healthy school,” said Hale. Minorities account for just over 60% of the student body—and 47% of enrollment in Advanced Placement (AP) classes, 45% in IB classes, 34% in pre-IB classes, and 37% in Honors classes. 41% of students come from a country other than the U.S., and they make up 39% of students who recently took an IB exam. 52% of students are native speakers of a language other than English, and they make up 42% of students who recently took the same exam.

These figures mark an improvement from recent years.

“These statistics show that we don’t have a school within a school,” said Albright.

Though there has been no concerted effort to challenge minority students in particular, there was one to improve overall school academics. “We decide that the key to raising academic standards wasn’t to directly focus on the middle of the road student,” said Albright, “but to raise the highest standards and have the rest follow.”

This effort can be roughly traced back to 1999, when the little-known Academic Task Force was formed. The group of faculty and community members met to raise standards and continues to do so today. to forward exploration of IB and International General Certificate of Secondary Education (IGSCE) programs.

The Task Force was only one of several factors which catalyzed the recent improvement in academics. Albright

Chorus hold several concerts

Minority Percentage Enrolled

n ews

Students speak at Board meeting

60%

Student Body 47%

AP Classes

45%

IB Classes Pre-IB Classes 34%

Honors Classes 37% CREATED BY PHILIPPE PODHORECKI & REID EDWARDS

maintains that the school’s unique ethnic makeup reduces ordinary subtle prejudices which accompany upper-level classes. “First thing,” she said, “our guidance counselors and teacher look at kids without the lenses that most do. They don’t look at kids as black or whatever. They look at them based upon their potential.”

She pointed out that being an “academically successful student at other schools” can mean “being called ‘whitey.’”

Thanks to the efforts of the Academic Task Force, encouraging teachers and counselors, and administrators it does not.

Math moves

Do you think there are too many tests during May and June?

Is it hard to study for it all?

“Move” from pg. 1

CHAE-WHA PARK

The Men’s Chroale performs during Flex on May 9.

“Chorus” from pg. 1 Ensemble.

After the spring trip the chorus will perfom three end of the year concerts.

The spring concert will feature all five choruses for their last performance of

the year. The concert will be held on May 23 and features a variety of different songs.

On May 9, the choruses performed some of their award winning songs during Flex. Since many students are unable to attend choral performances,

the Flex show offered an opportunity for the student body to see them perform.

Each section perfomed three songs.

In addition to a spring recital, the top three choruses, Annandale Singers, Women’s Ensemble and Men’s Chorale will be performing a spring recital on June 8. “It is a good way to sum up such a great year,” said junior Nikki Ogunnaike, who is in Women’s Ensemble.

Longtime supporters of Annandale Choral Department, Mark and Merrill Shugoll, recieved the Helen Hayes Awards from the Washington Post. The award was given to them Monday at the Kennedy Center for their contributions to the theater programs. They have sponsored such programs as, ArtSpeak! and Music Theatre Trips at low cost for students. They also helped create Voice Scholarship Program, which helps fund private voice lessons for AHS students.

Seniors deal with waitlisting “College” from pg. 1 letters, 1,749, making its waitlist 108% of its admit list. Of those 1,896 wait listed, 1,119 chose to keep their name on the list. Of the students who were waitlisted, only six made it in.

And this trend continues to occur nation wide, even at our local universities. At the University of Virginia, 5,482 students were admitted and 2,082 were waitlisted. Out of these, only 65, 3%, were eventually accepted. Johns Hopkins took only one applicant (out of 1,754) off their wait-list last year and Amherst took nobody. But Brown enrolled 193, Georgetown 123 (out of 1,667), Yale 48 (out of 927) and Middlebury 30.

Getting waitlisted is a trend on the rise across the country.

Many AHS seniors were waitlisted this year. National Merit Finalist senior Lindsay Young was also waitlisted. She carried a grade point average of over 4.0, and received over a 1400 on the SAT. But even with these high qualifications, she was wait listed at Duke, and at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. Young kept her name on the Duke list, but took it off of UNC’s.

“I didn’t expect getting into Duke,” said Young, “So getting waitlisted was a surprise. But even getting waitlisted at a couple of schools didn’t keep her hopes down, because she’ll be attending William and Mary next year.

But waitlisting turned out to be a positive experience for senior Justin Klunk. His top choice was Virginia Tech, but after he got waitlisted he decided to check out other colleges and universities. After visiting East Carolina University, he knew that it was right for him.

“It’s better that I got waitlisted from V-Tech,” said Klunk. “I got a chance to visit East Carolina, and now I like it more than

‘I love my new room because its new and bigger [than the old classrooms], and it has huge windows, —Alina Cymes Math Teacher

Leonard Bumbacca. “It makes me mad that everyone gets new classrooms and I am stuck in a trailer,” said junior Lauren Simmons, a student of Bumbacca.

Many students favor the move because of the brightness of the new wing. “I think the new rooms are awesome, they are a lot brighter which makes me naturally happy,” said sophomore Tracie Hiatt.

Teacher Anna Frome is especially excited about the new things that her classroom has to offer. “I love my new classroom, its clean and bright with lots of new furniture,” said Frome.

In Frome’s classroom, the floor in slightly uneven, making the desks unbalanced. The speakers are also not completely hooked up to the classes, leaving them without working bells.

Despite minor problems, math teacher Alina Cymes is still happy with her new locale. “I love my new room because its new and bigger [than the old classrooms], and it has huge windows,” said Cymes, “Most of all I like the better smell and the location, because it is right in the middle of everything.”

I don’t think they need to put SOL’s and finals together.

It’s really hard to study for them all.

—Sharai Bell freshman

It’s important and you have to take them, there is no other way to do it.

—Sam Tadesse sophomore

Filament includes CD “Filament” from pg. 1

PHILIPPE PODHORECKI

Senior John McDowell looks pleased with the results of his acceptance letter.

V-Tech.” So why do colleges have huge wait lists when even most of them are not going to be accepted?

Colleges say, “long lists are the only way to contend with the rapidly rising number of applications they have received in recent years.” If colleges know that most of the wait listees are not going to be accepted, than why don’t they simply reject the student, so he or she can go after other schools. Maybe down the road, colleges will have the common sense to do this, instead off mailing trash to thousands of students across America.

year in California for school publications, and school’s in other states were making CD’s and they suggested we do it also. So we did,” said Hunt.

Before Hunt began to compile pieces for the CD, she had to ask the administration for permission, and when they allowed her to go on, students began to submit their pieces of work.

Monica Ortiz- Ateca, is one of the performers on the cd.

Ortiz-Ateca sang with the other 2 members of her band, Dvine Souls.

“I think it’s really great that we are being produced, we finally get to show off our talent,” said Ortiz-Ateca.

The staff of 10 on The Filament had the arduous task of choosing wich pieces would be on the cd. “Most of them [the pieces submitted] were admitted,” said Hunt.

Each piece on the cd shows the performers individual style and taste. “There is not a best piece on the cd, all of them show different tastes. It shows the different students in the student body,” said Hunt.

In the end, the time consuming task of getting everything ready and complete has paid off. “I am very proud of our accomplishments. I think it’s going to be a success,” said Menecol. Be sure to check the back pocket of The Filament to find the CD.

We’d like to be your friend.

703-536-HOPE

Yes, with all the testing going on you never get a chance to study which effects your grade.

—Shunell Hall junior

Yes, all the testing interferes with the finals.

—Roxana Chumpitaz senior

aBlast

the

Tuesday, May 21, 2002

5

6 aBlast

the

Tuesday, May 21, 2002

Senior Prom filled with fun I couldn’t believe it, but then I thought, ‘hey, this is Annandale.’

—Noah Yates junior

News Briefs

SCHOLASTIC ART AWARD WINNING STUDENTS The following students were honored for their artistic acheivments in the following categories.

PhotographyGold Key Winners: Cynthia Brundage, Elizabeth Hopson, Lejia Lombardi Silver Key Winners: Kathleen Gualtieri, Yakari Nakamura, Heather Norwood, Emily Ward Certificate of Merit: Kara Bostrom Graphic DesignGold Key Winners: Leslie Badani, Roy Jang, Sakhan Tith Silver Key Winners: Shelley Green, Emily Hardesty Painting/Drawing/ PrintmakingSilver Key Winners: Ji Kim, Patrick O’Keefe Certificate of Merit: Julia Ehrenfeld, Shelley Green, Fatema Sarker

Guitar students hold concert

by Sarah Sherman Photographer

The night of Friday, May 10 was a night to remember for the graduating class of 2002. The senior Prom at the Sheraton in Reston, which began at 9 p.m. and ended shortly after 1 a.m., was complete with dancing, laughing, pictures and, yes, even a fire drill. Prom sold about 451 tickets.

Students arrived shortly after 9 p.m., when the music and dancing began. The front lobby before entering the ballroom was full of food and drinks, a lounge area for students to talk and take pictures. Free cameras were distributed at the door for students to capture the moment.

Formal Prom pictures were also popular. Several students and their dates filed into the smaller ballroom to pose in front of the formal backdrop.

As more students arrived, the tables and dance floor began to fill up as well. Prom attendants and their dates danced to a list of songs written up by the students during lunches the weeks proceeding May 10. Making the list were hits by Busta Rhymes, Fat Joe, and Snoop Dog. “The music was OK,” said senior Jay Hutchinson. “I didn’t really like the techno, and they played kind of a lot of that. But they also played some pretty cool stuff. They had a good mix of dance music. [My date] and I really had a good time. Everyone was dancing.”The DJ, Tommy V, came complete with giant speakers, strobe lights, and a dry ice machine, which may have been the cause for the fire alarm that occured in the middle of the dance, around 11:30 p.m. The final song, “End of the Road”, also the theme fo the night, by Boyz 2 Men got everyone on the dance floor for one final hurrah. Students typically thought it was a joke, but quickly realizing it was serious, filed outside, as they have so many times at Annandale. A collective groan, followed by, “Only at Annandale!” was heard throughout the crowd as they waited outside in front of the main entrance.

The fire trucks arrived shortly after as students carried on, snapping pictures and enjoying the cool breeze as they lingered

by Aminah Kakeh Staff Writer

The Advanced Guitar Ensemble had their final performance for the academic school year in the auditorium on May 6.

The twenty participants played an array of pieces that they began rehearsing at the beginning of the semester.

The musicians primarily participated in order to obtain their fourth quarter grades as well as illustrate the talent they have concieved over the past few months. They rehearsed all year for this moment; therefore, it was of grave importance.

The music consisted of acoustic songs to Classic Rock. Roughly 50 people attended.

The entire class performed their pieces upon acoustic guitars. While the majority of the pieces were performed as an entire ensemble some were performed individually.

“We played a variety of pieces including a traditionally American piece, a traditionally Iranian piece and a traditionally Bolivian piece,” said freshman Albert Dwan.

The turnout to the concert was not as much as they had originally hoped for. However, the musicians were inspired by their own ambitions to do well; therefore, the turnout was an irrelevant factor.

“What mattered was the we played our music,” said Dwan. “And that we played it up to our own personal standards.”

The musicians were happy with their performance. “As a group we performed well,” said senior Michael Wurzer. “Our efforts towards preparing throughout the semester were well coordinated, and we contributed well on an individual level to the overall sound of the ensemble.”

ANDREW SATTEN

Two couples slow dance at the Prom.

in the parking lot.

“I couldn’t believe it,” says senior Noah Yates. “But then I thought, ‘hey, this is Annandale’.” After the fiasco had subsided, students quickly filed back inside to enjoy the rest of their Prom. The music and dancing lasted until shortly after 1 a.m.. Seniors and their dates pulled together, forming one huge circle in the center of the floor for the last song, singing and clicking pictures as they enjoyed a last embrace as Annandale students. The last song started, and prom attendees and their dates got close for one last dance.“I had so much fun,” said junior Lindsey Grant. “The senior class is so close together, everyone was just having a great time. I hope my prom is just like this.”

Breakdancers model skills

by Wala’a Elbarasse Staff Writer

From 2:15 until 3:15 on Tuesday, May 14, the Breakdance Club captured the attention of an audience of 130 students and a dozen teachers by performing many strenuous moves in the upstairs gym. The attentive audience followed each of the 9 break dancers moves as they gracefully showed off, making the performance seem so easy.

“Breakdancing looks so easy, but I know that’s not the case,” said sophomore Rohina Hussain.

“Because some people did not get to see

ABOVE AND BEYOND RECOGNITIOPN AWARDS FOR APRIL The following teachers were recognized for their outstanding work: Shirley Altounian, Food Service John Clauss, Biology Danny Giles, Attendance Kathy Hermann, ESOL Sossi Krikorian, Food Service Tom Pratuch, Science Dpt. Head Jennifer Sharp, Attendance Janet Pfeiifer, Librarian Robin Roth, Career Center K.W. Williams, Security Paula Woolsey, Librarian

a

SEAN SULLIVAN

A breakdancer practices a move in the mat room.

tomic agenda

M

Annandale High School Calendar of Events

T

•

aBlast issue #13

MEMORIAL DAY No School

7 14

2

3

4

5

6

8

9

10

11

12

13

16

21

22

23

28

29

30

17

18

24

25

•Choral Awards Night, 7:00 p.m., auditorium

TESTING SCHEDULE • English SOL (White)

19 26

20 27

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

9

10

11

12

13

14

15

16

17

18

19

20

21

22

23

24

25

26

27

28

29

30

F

T 23 •Spring Choral Concert, 7:30 p.m., auditorium

28

1

1

15

22

21

June

April

W

TESTING SCHEDULE • IB Chem (AM) • Science SOLs

27

them [break dancers] during Heritage Night, we thought we would do this. We were also trying to have some last even before the school year was over,” said club sponsor Georgiana Tomisato.

The only female break dancer out of the nine, junior Monica Ortiz-Ateca, was impressed by the outcome. “It was great to see so many people come and watch us, and take interest in our hobby,” said Ortiz-Ateca.

Catherine Del Conte, an science teacher, was one of the many teachers cheering the break dancers on. “I think they’ve come a long way, I think its great that we’ve got diversity here,” said Del Conte.

TESTING SCHEDULE • Math IGCSE (AM) • SOL Make-up

TESTING SCHEDULE • Science R7 SOL

S / S

24 •Company Day “Much Ado Do About Nothing” directed by: Elizabeth Dere, 7:00 p.m., auditorium

25 26

TESTING SCHEDULE • SOL Make-up

•Pre-school 30 31 Graduation--FLEX •Spring Orchestra Con•Theatre 1 Plays: “Coun- cert, 7:30 p.m., auditotry Art Gothic,” Director rium Amy Jacobs, “A Midsummer Night’s Dream,” Director Frank Foley, 7:00 p.m., auditorium TESTING SCHEDULE TESTING SCHEDULE TESTING SCHEDULE • Social Studies SOL • English SOL (Red) • Social Studies SOL (Red)

29

1 2

(White)

3 •Senior Class Night, 4-6 p.m., cafeteria •FILM FESTIVAL, 7 p.m., auditorium

4 aBlast issue #14

5

6

n ews

•Senior Awards •Spring Jazz Band Ceremony, 8 a.m., Concert, 7:30 p.m., Main Gym auditorium •Yearbook Distribution •Spring Sports Banquet, dinner at 6 p.m., cafeteria TESTING SCHEDULE TESTING SCHEDULE SENIOR EXAMS SENIOR EXAMS • Chemistry IGCSE • SOL Make-up W6, W8 R5, R7 (AM) •Spring Band Concert, 7:30 p.m., auditorium

10 12 Class of 2002 11 13 •Baccalaureate, • Graduation Rehersal @ GRADUATION, 7:30 p.m., @ Annandale 8:30-12:30 a.m.

11 a.m., United Methodist Constitution Hall Church Cap and Gown Distribution @ 10:00-11:30 a.m.

•All-night Grad. Party, South Run Recreation Center, 9 p.m.SENIOR & FINAL EXAMS UNDERCLASS EXAMS FINAL EXAMS FINAL EXAMS W6, W8 R1, R3 W2, R7 R5 ACTIVITIES HOTLINE: 703-883-4700 • ASK FOR MR. HELIOS

7 •Band Awards Banquet, 6:30 p.m., auditorium

•Spring Recital @ First Presbyterian Church, 7:30 p.m.

8 9

SENIOR EXAMS W2

14

15 16

Last Day of School Father’s Day —Compiled by Atomic Agenda Editor Chae-Wha Park

Nancy Grim, 12th grade English teacher and graduation coordinator, answers to the basic questions about 2002’s graduation. If you’re still perplexed about what to wear and what not to wear to graduation, follow these helpful hints; otherwise Dr. Fugate will hunt you down and deprive you of your diploma.

by Sarah Sherman Photographer

Nancy Grim, graduation coordinator, addressed the basic questions concerning the class of 2002’s graduation.

Q: When is graduation and where will it be held?

A: Graduation begins at 11 a.m. and it is held at Consitution Hall, downtown on June 13.

Q: When and where will I go to get my cap and gown?

A: Cap and gown distribution is on June 12.

Q: Why is this held at Constitution Hall and not somewhere closer?

A: It is held at Constitution Hall becuase Annandale’s graduation is well known throughout Fairfax County for its dignified and official ceremony.

Students and parents are accustomed to this classy event and simply won’t stand for an undignified procession.

Q: What should the guests wear?

A: Clothing appropriate for any dignified occasion, for church, temple, or a wedding.

Q: How would one go about getting a ticket?

A: Each senior is given five tickets (if all their senior dues are paid. There are lists posted up around the school).

Students may also be entered in a lottery to win a 6th ticket as well.

Q: Can we take pictures during the ceremony?

A: During the ceremony, no picturetaking will be allowed from the aisle on the first floor. Parents may, however, take pictures from specially designated boxes on the side. Parents and guests should only take pictures when their son or daughter is on stage, otherwise, they are encouraged to stay in their seats. A professional photographer from Segall-Majestic Photography will be taking pictures of each student receiving his or her diploma.

Q: How early should we arrive?

A: Anywhere from 10-10:30 a.m. The Metro is another option for guests who wish to avoid a parking problem.

Q: What can guests expect during the ceremony?

A: Student speakers (the class officers), a special guest speaker for the commencement address. The senior members of the chorus and band will be performing the national anthem and the alma mater.

academics

Graduation FRENZY

DO wear your graduation cap flat on your head. Your tassel will be on the left before you graduate and will move to the right after you get your diploma.

DON’T eat or drink during the ceremony, but mints are acceptable

Q: Who is the guest speaker?

A: ABC 7 sports anchor Rene Knott.

The senior class picked the speaker, and Knott had spoken at the KADA festival at Annandale some years back.

The graduates really liked him, and wanted him back for their graduation, which he accepted.

DO wear your hair down and pulled back out of the way; girls should pin their hair back while boys should comb their hair back

Q: What are some of the special awards given out?

A: The top ten best academics will be awarded (the Scholarship Award). The Faculty awards presented to those students who are best all-around in academics, attitude, service and citizenship. The Service Award will be presented to those for outstanding service to the class of 2002. The Citizenship Awards will be presented to those associated with good citizenship in the school and the community.

DON’T attach notes on your graduation gown or any other extra decorations

DAR Constitution Hall

Q: How much do tickets cost?

A: Nothing; they are given to the students for free.

Q: What will happen to students if they misbehave during the ceremony?

A: They won’t! If they do, there will be doors on each side of the stage. They will be escorted outside, where they will meet Principal Don Clausen and the other administrators. They will then pick up their diploma sometime

DON’T come to graduation in a t-shirt, wear your best attire

Address: 18th & D Streets, NW Washington DC, DC 20036 Phone: (202) 628-4780

DON’T unzip your gown during graduation, leave it zipped at all times

HAYLEY FLETCHER

during the summer at Clausen’s convenience.

Q: What will senior girls wear?

Senior boys?

A: Girls are to wear dresses and appropriate shoes. Boys are to wear white or pastel dress shirts with a collar, a dark necktie, dark trousers and dark shoes with dark socks. No flip-flops, sandals, athletic shoes, hiking boots, or inappropriate footwear. No signs, flowers, or messages are to be written on the hat or gown.

DON’T goof around, stand up straight and present yourself in a proper manner.

DON’T wear a dress or pants that fall below gown; girls are recommended to wear skirts and boys are recommended to wear slacks.

DON’T wear flipflops, only wear shoes that contains a secure back. Guys should wear dress shoes.

Seniors eagerly anticipate All Night Grad Party

by Hana Nguyen Academics Editor As the exclamation point to a great year, Annandale’s All Night Graduation Celebration promises a “beach blast” with great music and an enjoyable time where seniors can have one last high school experience.

“The All Night Grad Party is the last time all my friends and me can get together at a school event. I’m looking forward to going,” said senior Brett

t

he best part of the All Night Grad Party is that everyone who comes has a great time and kids who usually don’t hang out with each other can get together.

—Deborah Sherman All Night Grad Party Volunteer

Hendrickson.

The event, which takes place June 13 at the South Run Recreation Center, will allow students to enter between the hours of 10 p.m. and 12:30 a.m., with students not being accepted after these designated hours.

Tickets for the All Night Grad Party are currently on sale for $25 at regular price ($10 for reduced lunch students) and for $35 at the door. Seniors will be able to purchase tickets during all three lunches on Fridays in April and May. After paying for tickets, students won’t have to bring out their wallets for the rest of the evening. The cost of the night’s activities are all included, however, some seniors feel the prices are a little high. “I think the ticket prices are outrageous. I’d rather pay a $10 cover charge and get into a club instead,” said senior Carlos Perez.

Even with his reservations about the ticket prices, Perez intends on attending the senior celebration.

Participants of the All Night Grad Party are reserved to only AHS students of the Class of 2002. While participants may leave whenever they desire, they will not be permitted to re-enter. In addition, the parents of departing participants will be notified of WWW.TEDBRITTFORD.COM their early AHS, along with other schools in Fairfax county, departure. will have a chance to win a new 2002 Ford While Mustang from the Ted Britt Ford Car Dealership.

these strict access rules are meant to maintain order and still allow participants to have a good time, some seniors disagree. “I think the rules are unnecessary and won’t let us have a good time,” said senior Paul Kehrer.

Even with the restrictions, some seniors are drawn to the celebration because of the frequent prize drawings that will be held throughout the night. A new car from Ted Britt Ford, the grand prize, will be drawn between 4 a.m.. and 5 a.m.

“I’m really look forward to going because there is a chance of winning a new car,” said senior Christine van der Eijk.

This year, the All Night Grad Party advertises a beach theme. Participants are encouraged to bring their swimsuits and towels for the pool and spa areas of the recreation center. Court games such as basketball and racquetball will also be available throughout the night.

Traditionally, parents of AHS seniors run the event that hails a plethora of carnival games as well as a casino area. “The celebration has become a tradition throughout the years and offers the lots of fun activities with the benefit of an alcohol free environment,” said Deborah Sherman, AHS parent and volunteer of the All Night Grad Party. In addition to the games, the annual tradition offers an abundance of concession stands, all stocked with different foods and drinks. A DJ and kareoke bar will also be provided.

The graduation party is seen as the final step after the climax of the senior graduation. “I’m looking forward to attending because it signals the end of my high school career,” said senior Elizabeth Dere.

With graduation on the tip of every senior’s tongue, the All Night Grad Party is acts as a way for all seniors to congregate for one last good-bye. “The best part of the All Night Grad Party is that everyone who comes has a great time and kids who usually don’t hang out with each other can get together,” said Sherman. “Overall, its a very positive experience.”

Top Reasons to Attend the All Night Grad Party • It’s an all night event that offers a plethora of activities, including swimming, raquetball, carnival games and prize drawings.

• AHS is one of many schools who will be participating in a grand prize drawing were one lucky participant will win a 2002 Mustang from Ted Britt Ford.

• Seniors can hang out with each other one last time before they all part ways.

a

tomic reactions

What are your plans before, during, and after graduation?

“I’m going to wake-up that morning and scream because high school is almost over.

After graduation, there will be a big party at my house with black people and black food.”

— Darion Stuart senior

“After the ceremony I’m going out to dinner with family and friends. I will also go to the All Night Grad Party.”

— Helen Houff senior

Website: www.dar.org Parking: Metered street parking is available but limited. There are parking garages located in the area on New York and Pennsylvania Avenues, and 17th and 18th Streets.

Daughters of the American Revolution: DAR headquarters is located at 1776 D St., NW. The DAR headquarters, library, and museum are open Monday-Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. and Sunday from 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.

DAR’s museum tours are Monday through Friday from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Closed Saturday and Federal holiday weekends.

A Brief History: • The National Symphony was founded at the Hall in 1930 and has performed there for 41 years.

• Until the 1950s the Hall had a glass ceiling and a view of the stars.

• During World War II the DAR loaned the complex of buildings to the Red Cross to support the war effort.

•The Hall has hosted numerous television events including the Country Music Association Awards, HBO Specials with Eddie Murphy and Whitney Houston, Jeopardy!, and the National Sports Awards.

“After graduation there will be a party at my house with a lot of my relatives and close friends.”

— Justin Zormelo senior

aBlast

the

“I plan to go out to a nice dinner with my family, preferably a Moroccan restaurant. I’m also going to go to the All Night Grad Party.”

— Nazha Asri senior

Tuesday, May 21, 2002

7

8 aBlast

the

Tuesday, May 21, 2001

German student adjusts to new life

by Morgan McEvilly Staff Writer

Foreign exchange student program provides a unique opportunity for students to experience other cultures

CULTURAL OBSERVANCES IN MAY May- Asian and Pacific-American Heritage Month May- Khao Phansa One of the most holy months for Buddhists, particularly those from Thailand. First sermon by Buddha to his disciples is commemorated by serious contemplation and mediation.

May- Festival of the Goddess of Sam Mountain Statue on Sam Mountain in Vietnam is a good luck symbol to people of many countries in Indochina regardless of their religion. Observed by some immigrant groups in Virginia durning this month.

When she first arrived in the U.S., senior Irene Burrow received a massive culture shock. Newly arrived from Germany, Burrow had never seen such a multi-cultural assortment of students. She soon realized that she would have to adjust to the diverse American society.

Raised in Rofpock, Germany, Burrow lived with her mother, stepfather, and two brothers. She decided to come to the U.S. to learn English and meet people from different cultural backgrounds.

However, when she arrived in the U.S., Burrow was not prepared for the tremendous diversity difference between the U.S. and Germany.

“In Germany, you watch MTV and you don’t think anything about all the differences, but when you get here it’s a culture shock. It’s totally different when you see it in real life rather than just on television. You get to see highways and all the different people,” said Burrow.

“Annandale has people from many different cultures. So it’s pretty cool for me to come exactly to this school... we only had one black

by Cameron Kynes Cultures Editor

Annandale’s diverse cultural influencecan be seen all over town by the many languages on store windows and signs. Along with foreign people comes foreign food. Here are just a few ethnic restaurants around Annandale that you might want to try.

Food Corner Kabob Boneless pieces of chicken breast marinated in Afghan herbs and spices, broiled on a skewer over charcoal served with rice, salad and a place mat sized portion of Afghan bread, all for under $8.

May 17-18Shavuot Jewish commemoration of Moses receiving the Law on Mt. Sinai

May 27- Memorial Day Commemorates all those who have died in military service to the U.S. in wartime.

Observed on the last Monday in May.

Food Corner Kabob

This and other mouth-watering dishes can be found at the food Corner Kabob.

Most entrees consist of either lamb, chicken or beef chucks served in a variety of ways, and then your choice of an array of odd side orders including subzi (fried spinach), kada (sauteed pumpkin), Gulpi (cauliflower), cholle (chick-peas) or korma kachaloo (potatoes).

Even though the side orders do not sound (or for that matter look) very appetizing, the main dish and bread make the meal worth the price. The environment includes Afghan pictures, architecture and music.

The service is

a

tomic reactions

What is your favorite foreign food?

c

ultures

her classes, especially chorus.

Despite these differences, Burrow finds similarities between the American and German lifestyle. One typical weekend in East Germany, Burrow would go clubbing with her friends and listen to rap music. In Annandale, she also parties with her friends and listens to rap music.

Burrow has had a somewhat rough transition from her German school to AHS. But, with the help of her host family, the Menezes, she has been able to adjust to her school life at AHS. They explained certain English words that were unfamiliar to her.

She finds that the English language is easier to understand and speak than German. They also helped her with her homework and provided her with several entertaining activities to do.

Burrow has grown attached to her host family. “Living with them is great and they are such awesome people,” said Burrow. “[Irene] is so nice and funny. I like learning about German culture. It’s going to be sad when she has to leave,” said sophomore Marisa Menezes.

Irene Burrow came from Germany to learn English and

Although her trip to the U.S. cost her family $7,000, Burrow feels that it was worth it. She is looking forward to returning to Germany; but, she will miss her life in the States. “This year has been really fun with Prom and Homecoming and all of the sports games. It was really awesome,” said Burrow.

Irene Burrow Born: July, 4 1984 Favorite Music: rap Favorite Book: The Rainmaker Favorite Movie: Forest Gump Favorite Activities: going to the movies and shopping Favorite Travel Spot: U.S. Thing you don’t like to do: homework Desired Occupation: business career

experience life in America.

Annandale provides an array of cultural cuisine

May 11- Vietnam Human Rights Day A joint resolution of the U.S. Congress to support movement for democracy, freedom, and civil rights in Vietnam.

May 26- Wesak Birth of Buddha Celebration of the birth of Siddhartha Gautamam, founder of Buddhism.

“Buddha “ means “Enlightened One.” Wesak is the date observed by Mahayana Buddhists.

student at my high school,” said Burrow.

The biggest obstacle that she had to overcome was getting accustomed to the various cliques here. “Everyone here has their own little group, and at first it was hard to get to know people,” said Burrow. She also had to adjust to the dress code. In Germany, the schools do not have any type of dress code and students can mostly wear anything that they want.

Burrow also had trouble adjusting to the amount of homework and schoolwork here. Although she was a top student at her German school, she still encountered difficultly getting used to the increased work load.

However, she has grown to enjoy most

not necessarily quick or accommodating, yet it is very friendly and personal. The two owners run the restaurant and are nearly always working. Their approachable demeanor makes anyone feel welcome.

The Food Corner is the perfect place to go when you want more than fast food, but less than a sit-down restaurant.

Prices are low, service is pleasant, and the food is unique and savory.

The Food Corner Kabob is located at 7031 Little River Turnpike. It is open Mon.-Sat. 11a.m.-10p.m., and Sun. 12p.m.-9p.m. (703) 750-2185 Pho Hoa The location of Pho Hoa does not do the Vietnamese atmosphere justice. An ugly parking lot and a prison like structure transform into soothing scene of Vietnamese culture as you open the doors.

This self proclaimed “Health-Conscious” noodle soup restaurant describes itself as “The place for noodle soup lovers,” which says a lot about the menu.

If you don’t like soup, don’t come here; you’ll be disappointed.

If on the other hand you are a “noodle soup lover” then this is the place for you.

Twenty-one different soups gives the costumer plenty of choices and a price range of $4 to $7 is more than reasonable.

The soups are grouped as “For the

Beginners,” “Just Regular,” and “The Adventurer’s Choice.” The drinks present another set of eccentric choices. Whether you want a Chinese Fortified, a Jelly Pearl or just a Blended Avocado drink, you will undoubtedly be in for a new experience. Pho Hoa is a great place to go for a very atypical and cheap meal, but just stop by for lunch because it would not be a filling dinner.

Pho Hoa is located at 7133 Columbia Pike. (916) 978-1263 Chicken Pollo If you want Peruvian style chicken go to Chicken Pollo; if you want anything else, go somewhere else. The chicken is great: juicy, succulent, and delicious. But, everything else is putrid.

If you’re an indecisive person, this is the place for you. The whole menu is made up of chicken, 4 side items, and 2 deserts.

The side-orders of fries, yuca and plantains are bland, much like the decor of the restaurant, which consists of not much more than walls and seating. The inside feels more like a waiting room than a respectable restaurant.

The price for one quarter chicken,

Chicken Pollo

which would feed one person is $4.50, and side orders go for about $1.50. My advice: order the whole chicken ($11.50), take it home, make your own side dishes and you’ve got a good meal for the family.

Chicken Pollo is located at 7320 Little River Turnpike. (703) 914-5775 A & J Restaurant Pho Hoa

“I’m a vegetarian so I like to go the sunflower, which is a vegetarian Chinese restaurant.”

A&J Restaurant

Chinese brought out on a cart for the costumer to choose from, much like a desert tray. This dim sum can only be determined through the menu, so if you’re clueless about Chinese food, you might want to bring along a friend who knows what’s on the menu.

The menu has over 60 items, many of which are unfamiliar to the average American, such as Plain Millet and Corn Congee.

The dumplings are especially good. Pretty much any dumpling is a good choice.

The atmosphere is relaxing and seemingly very authentic.

Chinese murals and wall hangings add to the whole experience.

The service was decent, but on a crowded Sunday afternoon you should expect a wait for your table and then for your food. When your check comes you will be pleasantly surprised, it is very hard to spend more than $10 on the whole meal, but a word of warning, like many other foreign restaurants, the refills aren’t free.

A & J Restaurant is located at 4316 B Markham Street. (703) 813-8181

“I like African food because it’s good and spicy.”

“I like Chinese orange chicken with rice. I go to the Hunan Kitchen in Annandale.”

—Jennifer Ott sophomore

A & J Restaurant serves dim sum all day, everyday. The dim sum served at A & J consists of a variety or soups and dumplings. The traditional dim sum is

—Mohammad Bhatti junior

“I like Italian food. My favorite is spaghetti and ravioli.”

—Joyce Thompson junior

—Lauren Montgomery senior

Annandale serves a variety of diverse ethnic cuisine: Gom Ba Woo Restaurant

7133 C Columbia Pike (703) 642-1577

Le Matin De Paris

Shiney’s Sweets

Annan-Gol Korean Restaurant

4217 Annandale Center Dr. (703) 914-008

4231 D Markham St. (703) 642-0460

4215 Annandale Center Dr. (703) 914-4600

After 26 years on Capital Hill, government teacher, Mary Ann Richardson, brings her experience to the classroom

by Denice Miller Profiles Editor

Why is the cost of peanut butter so high? U.S. Government teacher, Mary Ann Richardson, knows, and it would not have been possible had it not been for the tiny political seed her parents planted in her mind at a young age. Before teaching, Richardson enjoyed many years on Capitol Hill, dealing with many bills, including the “peanut butter bill.”

During her time in the House, Richardson’s boss came in from a town meeting. He said that a little old lady had stood up and asked a simple question: why is the price of peanut butter so high? This boggled the minds of Richardson, her boss and her coworkers. Looking into it, the group found that peanut farmers needed permission from the federal government to grow peanuts, therefore, they were expensive because of their scarceness.

Richardson found this ridiculous and began a campaign to reform the peanut problem. The bill progressed through the House successfully, but the joy was shortlived, for as soon as the bill got to the Senate, the bill was killed in less than 60 seconds by a southern Senator. “It taught me a lot Now in the classroom some 20 years later, Richardson has brought many of her lessons to life. Assignments have included a Model Congress, with her two AP classes acting as the House of Representatives and the other as the Senate; a Presidential Roundtable, where students gathered in a circle to argue who’s president was better

U.S. Government teacher

1970-1974: Attended Gannon University

1974-1986: House of representatives; 1974-1976: George Washington grad school, majored in political science; 1976: Married to Bob Richardson 1983: First son was born

1986-1990: U.S. Senate; (1989: Second son was born)

➔ 1990-1992: Lobbied for Corning Incorporated

➔ 1992-1996: Worked in Department of Labor

➔ 1996-2002: Attended GW grad school, education major

➔

while presenting their own assigned president; a Socratic Seminar; community service; and a research paper on various interest groups. “I liked the Model Congress.

[Richardson] gave us the opportunity to express ourselves through the legislation and didn’t care what we changed,” said senior Elliott Millan.

Richardson is famous for her never-ending Power Point presentations, which are used almost every day for students to copy for notes. “She’s always there when you need her. I think she’s a very devoted teacher, more so than most. She cares about our development, not just passing through the lessons,” said senior Soosie Lim. Richardson has had a long career in politics that has contributed to her considerable knowledge in the classroom. Richardson’s first encounter with political activism was in fourth grade: campaigning with her dad for John F. Kennedy. Richardson’s dad also worked in the government after a stint in the newspaper business.

Richardson chose to attend Gannon University, a small private Catholic school in her hometown of Erie, Pennsylvania. While there, her days consisted of classes, work and politics. “I decided I would change the world, so I ran for democratic party office and I won!” she said. Pulling out a street map, Richardson went knocking on all the doors of her district where registered Democrats lived.

She would introduce herself and explain her goals and ambitions for being the Democratic committee woman.

At 18 years old, Richardson defeated a 50-some year old incumbent of 13 years to become the youngest committee woman for the Democratic party. “It was right after [the 26th amendment, allowing 18 year olds to vote] and I was ecstatic.” Richardson organized party functions for her district, campaigned for Democratic candidates and registered new voters for four years. At the end of her service, the Pennsylvania state legislature commended her for her service and for being the youngest committee woman. She also worked as an emergency room clerk for a nearby hospital.

“What [these responsibilities] taught me was practical

Timeline of a Capitol Hill career

➔

—Mary Ann Richardson

life skills to organize myself for life. It helped me in every job I’ve taken,” said Richardson Richardson graduated from Gannon and had applied to George Washington University for her graduate education without telling her parents. Her dad wanted Richardson to run for office and didn’t know of her different plans. “I’ll never forget the look of disappointment when I told him I was going to Washington,” she said. At GW, Richardson again went door to door, this time to numerous congressional offices. She was hired by a Pennsylvania congressman and her first job was to advise him of the bills that were being proposed to the House, their contents and the debates, while also working with his constituents.

For two years, Richardson worked at the House by day and took classes at night. After finishing her courses, she continued working, though she had moved on to Stan Lundine, a congressman from New York, and was with him for 12 years. She ran his legislative staff, assisted him during his time in the banking committee and dealt with budget, science and international development issues in the Senate. The job had its share of PHOTO COURTESY OF MARY ANN RICHARDSON ups and downs.

Mary Ann Richardson poses for the camera with Hillary Clinton in the White House.

“I didn’t have enough hours in the Clinton is one of several people whom Richardson greatly admires. day. I never felt bored and always felt there were at least 12 issues that needed attention and my Senatorial work, was summarized in her face,” said at least 100 people who needed help with their governRichardson. ment and at least four to six interns that needed help After the death of her mom, Richardson decided to learning how to work on the hill,” said Richardson. change her career. “I felt I had done what I could in Even though she felt that her political work went Congress.” Hearing the stories her mom told her about hand in hand with what she was learning in class, she teaching had left yet another seed in Richardson’s “learned so much by doing it.” Her second son was born youthful mind, inspiring a desire to teach. “The Senate in 1989 and soon afterwards, Richardson left the Senate was a wonderfully stimulating place to work. Reading, because “I never saw my son.” She moved onto a private thinking and writing, it was like taking a test every sector for Corning Glass, lobbying Congress and dealing day, it was very challenging.” However, Richardson with the government relations for the corporation. needed a change of pace. “Both of my parents taught During Bill Clinton’s administration, Richardson was me the importance of public service and giving back to the Deputy Assistant Secretary for Congressional your country.” She signed up for a program at GW that relations in the Department of Labor for five years and helped career people transition to education. was a fundamental link between the department and Richardson has nearly completed her second year at Congress and between the department and the White AHS and loves teaching seniors. “I don’t want to teach House. “There are hundreds of me out there, I’ve done any other grade. It’s such an exciting time for my nothing extraordinary,” she said. students, they have one leg in childhood and one leg in adulthood. Right now is the time where they’re pulling that one leg and crossing it over into adulthood and it’s amazing,” she said. “It’s hard looking at new students at the beginning of the year, seeing new faces. At the beginning of the year, I’m getting so many e-mails from past students and I love it,” said Richardson.

Recently, most of Richardson’s classes have consisted of reviewing for the AP Exam, which was on May 15. Richardson had review packets that alphabetized essential facts, jeopardy games, review sessions after class and a Saturday review.

“She pushes all her students really hard but at the end of the year, when we have to take the AP test, we’re very grateful to her because she prepared us well,” said PHOTO COURTESY OF MARY ANN RICHARDSON Hanh Le, senior.

Mary Ann Richardson stands with her peers and Bill Clinton after Now that the AP Exam, which consisted of 60 the signing of the Minimum Wage bill. This achievement was the questions to be answered in 45 minutes and four essays highlight of Richardson’s political career. in 100 minutes, is over, Richardson plans on doing a little bit on comparative government, a week on sex In 1996, Richardson’s mom became seriously ill and education and reviewing for the final in her class.

Richardson left the Department of Labor on family One of the best things that Richardson relates to her medical leave. During the Christmas before her mom students with is sports. Having grown up with three died, she and Richardson were treated to a special tour in brothers, sports has always been a part of her life. the White House. When Richardson arrived with her Richardson played touch football and other games in mom, in a wheelchair, the two were confronted by two the backyard with her brothers and learned golf from men dressed in full military uniform. They announced her dad. Several times she was called a “tomboy” and that they needed to take her mom up the stairs by a felt it was a compliment. Now, when she isn’t at one of “special route” and that Richardson was to go up the her son’s games or grading papers, Richardson comes to stairs and meet them. So good-naturedly, Richardson see her students’ games. climbed the stairs and waited for her mom.

“Education is just like sports. The more you read, Finally, her mom arrived with the two men, her face the stronger a human you are. It’s like the muscle, the radiating with joy. The two men had escorted the woman more you strengthen it, the more you can do,” she said. up Clinton’s personal elevator and through the White House kitchen, introducing her to all the cooks and assistants in the kitchen. “I think it shows the human side to government that I think is important. It was a wonderful thing. All I had felt in service, from the time I told my dad I wasn’t running for office to the last day of

➔

i

didn’t have enough hours in the day. I never felt bored and always felt there were at least 12 issues that needed attention and at least 100 people who needed help with their government and at least four to six interns that needed help learning how to work on the Hill.

profiles

Conquering classes after Capitol Hill

1998-2002: Works as a teacher; 2000-2002: AHS teacher

Treatise for a dialectical discrepancy

RICHIE MCCORMACK

Senior Luc Hickey enjoys the solitaire and calmness a toilet offers when he reads.

Most people don’t want to acknowledge its occurrence, but it’s actually possible to get bored in class. This happens to me every once in a while. I think about weird stuff.

The weirdest stuff gets written down.

As startling as it may seem, Skittles brand candies and oatmeal do not mix very well, as first hand experience showed this author beyond any reasonable doubt. One morning, experimentation was performed on the typically bland medium of rolled oats to ascertain whether the eating experience could be enhanced. It proved... less than successful. The grey-green goop bore a remarkable resemblance to congealed vomit. Ladling it in and out of the bowl, a sickening glopf was produced with each successive reentry of the plummeting pasty porridge returning to the vessel from whence it came.

Summoning all available testosterone, consumption was hesitantly commenced. The texture was bearable, similar to that of a crunchy loogie, with a similar flavor, all of which would have been bearable if not for the smell. The aroma of the vitriolic vittles could only be described as... as, uhh,

Talking about Myself

by Luc Hickey

ummmmm... aw carp.

The English language suffers an embarrassing dearth of onomatopoeia for the way things smell. It’s interesting that the only ways to describe smells presently are the use of simile or metaphor and vague, generalized adjectives. As examplae gratiae, a writer could suggest, “The decayed body found in the sewer smelled worse than a baboon with horrendous gastrointestinal condition.” As any nasally-competent homosapien can smell, there are no concise words that through their very phonetics characterize a certain odor.

The most celebrated inventor of sound words was the Mad Magazine’s late Don Martin. A few archetypical innovations from his acclaimed work The Completely

MAD Don Martin are sklishk, sploydoing, shklitz, and many others which do start with other letters than s. Emphatic adulation was received from all literary circles, and even some select rhombi. Thus far, the only pioneer in the fledgling field of aromatopoeia is Bill Watterson, affectionately remembered as the now-retired creator of Calvin and Hobbes. In one color panel strip, Hobbes describes the smells of Autumn as brunky and brambish (but a little snorky) and wet leaves as snippid. Astoundingly, these terms of aromatopoeia accurately personify the aforementioned scents for a variety of people!

At the status quo, only four out of the five senses are regularly incorporated as imagery in modern and classical literature, sight and sound taking the dominant roles.

That’s only 80% of potential imagery to be... uh, imagined. It’s amazing how aromatopoeia puts the world in a different perspective. While the philosophical ramifications of this pedantic postulate are staggering, they cannot be discussed in this treatise, because I think I smell my most recent concoction burning.

aBlast

the

Tuesday, May 21, 2002

9

aBlast

the

Tuesday, May 21, 2002

Summer Job Opportunities Available in the Career Center Part-Time Positions Available

3609-E Chain Bridge Road, Fairfax *Working part-time w/ friends *Flexible hours *Fun, friendly, positive work environment *Call Aaron: (703) 273-0101

by Katherine Kishiyama Staff Writer

As the warm weather approaches, students are reminded of the opportunities summer brings; more free time, sleeping in, no school work, lounging by the pool, vacations, camp, but most importantly, finding a summer job. The summer gives students a chance to earn money and gain valuable working experience. However, there are both pros and cons of having a summer job.

While some students are busy applying for jobs, others have decided to pass up the opportunity and just enjoy their summer vacation.

“I like having a summer job because it gives me a feeling of financial responsibility and independence. Having a job also makes my parents trust and respect me,” said junior Liz Tran.

“Without a job, I would be a completely unproductive part of society.

On the other hand, however, junior Itzel Perez said, “I didn’t apply for a summer job because I’m going to be traveling and it’s too much of a hassle. I’d rather be doing other things.”

One of the most obvious benefits of working during the summer is making money. “I made around $4,000 last summer guarding at Bren Mar Pool. I put most of it in the bank. It’s great being able not to worry about money during the school year,” said junior Andy Pelenburg.

Having a job during the summer is more convenient than during the school year. It’s an easy way to make money without having to worry as much about time management. “I enjoyed lifeguarding because it wasn’t a demanding job. I worked with friends from school, so I got paid to sit by the pool and hang out with them,” said Pelenburg.

Summer jobs also give teenagers a chance to learn about the real world. Many jobs teach them valuable skills they will need later on in their lives.

“Having a job has taught me a little about managing my time better and budgeting my money. I also had to learn how to perform CPR to become a certified lifeguard,” said Pelenburg.

Another plus to having a job is enjoying the employee benefits.

“I’ve been working at the Gap for two years,” said senior Holly

Popal. “One of the benefits of working there is getting great clothes at discounted prices at Gap, Old Navy, and Banana Republic.”

However, working at a summer job also has its negative aspects.

Jobs are time consuming. They take away from time a teen would rather spend hanging out with friends and relaxing. “I decided not to get a job this summer because I still want free time to hang out and have fun this summer, so I’m just babysitting in the morning, which will give me plenty of free time in the afternoons and nights,” said junior Alex Mott.

“I’m excited that I got a job this summer as a tennis coach at Army Navy Country Club, but I’m not looking forward to having to wake up early everyday,” said sophomore Braxton Koppleman.

All in all, having a summer job may have temporary downsides, but the benefits and skills you learn will last longer. “Jobs teach teenagers responsibility. When they work they begin to realize the importance of punctuality and following through with jobs thoroughly,” said Latin teacher Paul Weiss.

$o Much Money Student finds job different but enjoyable

By Laura Hollowell Staff Writer

Many students at AHS have unusual or interesting summer jobs. In a recent interview with senior Bryan Burer, questions about his somewhat unusual summer job were asked.

What specifically do you do?

—I do a variety of work. At six o’clock, the movers leave for home, so I help them load the truck with new orders and unload the truck with the deliveries that didnít satisfy the customers. I also help fix the pieces that have

Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) *Qualifications: - GS-1: none - GS-2: 3 months general experience or high school equivalent - GS-3: 6 months experience or 1 year of education above high school - GS-4: 1 year general experience or 2 years education above high school

What was your first summer job as a teen?

*Call Ms. Jean Stock: (202) 366-0541 Veterinary Assistant/Kennel Attendant

Austin Veterinary Clinic 7323 Little River Trnpk, Annandale *Hours: - 3:00-7:30pm 2-3 evenings/week - 3 weekends/month - Saturday: 8:00am5:00pm - Few hours Sunday

—Terry Brown, Physical Education Teacher

“I worked as the grill man at McDonalds before the Big Mac; in 1966, it paid minimum wage.”

—Cliff Cornwell, Safety and Security Specialist

“Working as a salesperson in a jewelry store in Tokyo in 1983, for $8 an hour.”

—Kazue Watlington Guidance Counselor

“I worked at Zayre’s as a fabric department clerk, helping people pick out material in 1969, for $2.50 an hour.”

been damaged as well as put furniture together. After 6 p.m., when they have left, I go to the front and help sell the furniture.

—The best part of my job is having fun with the guys I work with. Plus, you can pick your work days and hours.

What company do you work with?

—I work at a private company called Warehouse Showrooms.

The only store available is on General Washington Dr. in Alexandria, VA.

What is probably the worst thing?

—The worst thing is the busy work that you get if your not doing anything.

How long you have been working for them?

—I have been working there for about 8 months now—since October.

What are the negative and positive aspects of working there?

—The pros of working there are that you get to see a lot of different people, the people that I work with are funny, I have a good boss, and the pay is basically decent. The cons are that my boss gives me busy work if he sees me sitting down, and I am constantly lifting heavy furniture so I end up sore when I get home.

What is amount you are paid?

—I get paid $6 an hour How many hours a week do you work?

—I work about 28 hours a week on average What are your daily hours?

—I work Sat. 10-6, Sun.12-4 and Monday through Wednesday 3-8. I usually come in early because I’m trying to get a pay increase.

How long do you plan to continue this job?

—I plan to pursue this job as long as I can, until I get fired, basically.

How did you find out about

What is the best thing about your job?

There are many summer jobs possible for making money, friends, and a summer full of learning experiences. Some students work at summer camps, restaurants, or golf courses, but life guarding has gained increasing popularity as one of the most popular summer jobs.

To be a good life guard one is required to pay for and pass basic training. One must be certified in CPR (Cardiovascular Pulmonary Resuscitation), and be certified in life saving techniques.

“I had to got through 18 hours of training and do stuff like drag a 10 pound brick out of the deep end of a pool, and I had to swim 500 meters without stopping,” said sophomore Lindsay Miller, a first time lifeguard.

The three main pool service companies in the area are NVPools, Crystal Aquatics and Atlantic.

These pool services get contracts from different pools in the area to supply

them with chemicals, equipment, and life guards.

Many students do not like being life guards because they feel that the job requires more janitorial work instead of actual life guarding.

“I was a lifeguard last year, and I had to clean bathrooms, fix up lawn chairs, and make sure that people were safe for only six measly dollars an hour,” said sophomore Justine Wade. “I’m not going to ever be a life guard again.”

Many pool service companies in the area have to look to returning college

students that work for higher wages than high school kids within the area. Some companies have had to hire life-

How can other people get a job there?

—Well, we are not hiring at this moment.

What is a typical client like?

— There are a variety of clients. We have ones that come in and know exactly what they are looking for which is very good. Then there are clients that don’t know what they are looking for and they spend time walking around and ask for our help, which we gladly give them. But, then there are people who, after about 2 hours of us helping them, leave and don’t buy anything.

Another type of customer we have is when the store has been empty for about 25 minutes and we are about to close, we always have at least 1 or 2 customers that will come in just a few minutes before our closing time.

How Much AHS Students Earn

9th Grade

10th Grade

30 N u m b e r 20

12th Grade

15

*Year 1: If you begin as a Counselor-InTraining (CIT) the summer after 9th grade, this summer is volunteer

15

10

*Year 2: If you have worked as a CIT, the pay is $75/ week for 40 hours/ week for the Junior Counselor (JC) postion

10 7

7

6

5

6 5

5

5

*Year 3: As a second year JC the summer after 11th grade, the pay is up to $95/week for 40 hours/ week

8

4 3 2

3

2 1

less than $5.25

$5.26-$7.25

$7.26-$9.25 $9.25-$11.25 Amount Made Per Hour

$11.26 and up

—I was desperate for a job so I RESULTS DERIVED FROM SURVEY TAKEN BY STUDENTS AT A, B, AND C LUNCHES

—Carol Rychlik, Math Teacher

guards to work the pools from significant distances.

“We like to have kids from high school to work as our life guards lifeguards,” said Ash Milad, an employee of NVPools. “It costs more to have older life guards, but if we are ever short of employees, we wouldn’t really mind hiring older employees.”

Some of the most popular pools that AHS students work at are Forest Hollow, Wakefeild Chapel, Broyhill Crest and Parklawn, all located within the area.

“I’m really excited about becoming a lifeguard this summer,” said freshman Sarah Sosio, who will be working at Forest Hollow this summer. “Everyone tells me that I will get so sick of it, but it will be my first job and right now it seems like a

Highest and Lowest Paying Jobs of AHS Students

Sleepy Hollow Road in Falls Church

21

o f S t 10 u d e n t s 0

11th Grade

Congressional Day Camp

it?

*Year 4: After graduating from high school, pay doubles and you can expect to get up to $180/week *Each year after this, pay increases slightly NRI Temp Agency

7611 Little River Tnpk, Annandale

Summer heat calls students to lifeguard locally

by Paul Gleason Staff Writer

went everywhere I could, looking for one. I just went to the store one afternoon and said I really need a job and that I would work my hardest. My boss, Andy, said come in on Saturday and he would start me.

lot of fun.”

Many guards choose to work at single guard pools or private pools, like motel pools and small apartment complex pools. These pools pay about $10 an hour, but these positions call for more hours and are usually more demanding than public pools.

The wages for new part time guards at NVPools is $6 an hour, and full time, first year guards get $6.40 an hour. These wages are for average guards; however pool operators and managers get paid significantly higher than regular guards, depending on their experience and training.

Many guards choose to become substitute life guards, but not under any pool companies.

These guards are paid by the lifeguard for whom they are substituting. They can also charge their own fee for their services. This way they get to choose their salary and decide when they want to work. This practice is against the rules for most pool service companies, but this practice is still done and kept from supervisors.

“I really didn’t like being an employee of NVPools, mainly because I never felt like working,” said sophomore Pat McMurry. “If I become a private guard I can charge much more than I was making last year and it’s my decision when I want to work.”

What would be your ideal summer job?

* Temporary help services *Permanent placement services * Temp-to-hire * $9-$12/hour, depending on experience, skills, and seniority

“I would probably like to be a waitress because I don’t like the hassels of retail, but I really like working with people, and I like to eat.”

“Working at a movie theater. I used to work at one and it was fun.”

—Hassan Jama, junior

“I want to be a cashier at any store for the summer, because I could help somebody.”

“I would work at Tower Records, because you get really good discounts, and I’m really into music.”

—Walter Reiz, sophomore

—Shelley Selim, senior

—Rachel Ha, freshman

Popular jobs attract AHS students

by Jared Smith Staff Writer

It’s June 17, the first Monday after school is out, and some students are sleeping in and living it up. But other kids are still hard at work as they begin their summer jobs. There are many hot spots around the community in which summer jobs are readily available to high school students.

One of those places is Silverado’s Restaurant which is located at 7050 Colombia Pike. Silverado’s, which serves American style food, is a popular place among AHS students. Many AHS students also work there, including seniors Lara Bellingham, Nicole Stehr, Gena Fortune, and Sean Kinney.

“The friendly, community atmosphere makes it easy to work here,” said hostess Lauren Sherline. “That is also why many students work here as well, because it is very relaxed and everyone knows each other. I can’t think of one person with a part time job who doesn’t love working here.”

Silverado’s is always hiring for part time jobs in numerous positions. A “Tiger” works 3 shifts per week and is basically a food runner, delivering trays of food to each table. Another part time position is a host or hostess, which also require 3 shifts a week. The job involves greeting customers at the door, taking reservations and

Senior Jay Hutchinson exhibits one of the popular benefits that comes from working at a summer job.

i

n-depth

*Call Deanna: (703) 941-5300

“I did concrete construction for a friend of my dad in 1972, and I learned how to build sidewalks for $6 an hour.”

in-depth

10

To work or not to work?

PHOTO ILLUSTRATION BY HEATHER DOWNEN

REBECCA SAMPLE

Senior Laura Enteles cleans up at Meadows Farms, where she has worked for a little over a week and plans to continue for the rest of the summer.

getting people seated at their table.

Meadows Farms, located at 4808 Backlick Road in Annandale is also a popular place for AHS students to search for summer job opportunities. Meadows Farms is a plant nursery which cares for, sells and delivers plants. One AHS student who works at Meadows, senior Shelley Selim said, “I have crazy hours and the pay isn’t that

great, but I enjoy the people I work with and that is all that matters to me.”

Selim works as a cashier Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays from 3 pm to 8 pm, Saturdays from 8 am to 8 pm, and Sundays from 8 am to 6 pm. Meadows Farms is currently hiring students for a summer job in the driver position, which involves delivering plants to clients that order them.

Another very popular job in the AHS area is Total Crafts, located at 6910-C Bradlick Shopping Center at the corner of Backlick and Braddock roads. Total Crafts is an art supply store which offers various opportunities for jobseekers. A number of AHS students also work at Total Crafts, like seniors Young An, Leslie Lang and Laura Barnes.

“Total Crafts has appeal to high school students because of it’s very relaxed, and mature atmosphere,” said cashier Allison Garcia. “The people are very friendly and the hours are very flexible, especially for part time workers.”

The average part time job at Total Crafts is about 4 hours a day, and 4 days a week. Part time jobs include cashiers, stocking the supplies, frame orders, cutting fabrics, or working in the floral department.

aBlast

the

Tuesday May 21, 2002

11

12 aBlast

the

A Night to Remember

Tuesday, May 21, 2002

After four long years of anticipation, days of searching for the perfect dress, and hours of fixing the hair and makeup, Prom 2002 arrived and became the memory of a lifetime.

The Prom Experience: A Timeline

10:19 a.m. get out of school, go home and relax until the chaos of all the appointments

12:30 p.m.

Hair appointment

1:30 p.m.

Nail appointment

4:00 p.m.

Makeup appointment

5:00 p.m.

Get dress on without messing up the hair, nails or makeup

6:00 p.m.

Date arrives at the house and parents take pictures of the two of you

COURTESY OF HEATHER NORWOOD

Seniors Paul Kehrer, Mick Wurzer and Becky Gibson enjoy dinner at Les Halles in Washington.

Dinner was the most time consuming part of the night and many people did not arrive at the dance until well after it started.

6:30 p.m.

Arrive at friends house for group pictures (which take forever) COURTESY OF JEANNINE FRANK

7:00 p.m. (if lucky) Leave for dinner in the limousine

Junior Jeannine Frank pins a boutonniere on senior boyfriend Thonnie Grisby. Frank was one of few underclassmen at Prom since, in order to attend, they had to be invited by a senior.

7:30 p.m.

Dinner at a fancy restuarant

9:30 p.m.

Leave restaurant for dance

10:00 p.m.

Arrive at dance and go nuts

JENNY BEAM

The 1957 Chevrolet limousine was one of two limos needed for Freeman’s group. Some groups consisted of a large number of people, while some only included six or eight. The size of the group greatly influenced costs of dinner, limos and other expenses.

11:00 p.m.

Fire alarm goes off and building has to be evacuated (just a little reminder of school)

11:30 p.m.

Allowed to return to the building and dance the night away COURTESY OF HEATHER NORWOOD

1:00 a.m.

Prom is over

1:30 a.m.

Seniors Will Freeman, Kevin Rudd and Walter Fedrowitz chill out in their limo on the way to the dance, which was held at the Sheraton in Reston, where it has been held for the past several years. “It was a fun night. Our ’57 Chevy limo was the coolest,” said Fedrowitz.

Stop at home and change clothes so you can go out again

2:00 a.m.

Head to a friends house to chill out or breakfast at IHOP or both

5:00 a.m.

Arrive home and hit the hay after a long night of partying

JENNY BEAM

Seniors Kara Brostrom and Heather Norwood count limousine money from their group. “Prom wasn’t what I had expected, but it was still fun. It was basically like a glorified homecoming,” said Norwood.

LINDA FAIRALL

s

napshots

Seniors Esma Niazi and Jake Edwards take a break from the dance floor. However, the longest break came when the fire alarm went off and the hotel had to be evacuated.

LINDA FAIRALL

Seniors Shelley Selim, Ali Prosch and Talia Miller take a breather from the hot ballroom. Soda, water and snacks were all served as refreshments in the lobby.

COURTESY OF JOAN DIONGZON

Seniors Quang An, Joan Diongzon and Phi Nguyen pose for pre-prom pictures. The memories these photoshoots preserve are priceless, and make Prom 2002 a night to truly remember.

f eatures

“I Like Paste!”

Despite controversy, America’s favorite animated family remains popular

by Sarah Kelman Features Editor

“D’oh!” “Don’t have a cow, man!” “It tastes like burning!”

If you’re a fan (or even just a casual observer) of the FOX television show The Simpsons, then these infamous lines may be familiar to you. The Simpsons, which has been on the air since 1989 and, soon after starting work on its 300th episode, seems to still be going strong, is undoubtedly one of the most popular shows of the past decade.

In 1999, Time magazine named it the best TV show of the 20th century, and TV Guide recently placed the animated show eighth on its list of the 50 greatest television shows of all time. Not only has it inspired such animated shows as Family Guy, Futurama and Daria, but it seems to have a lasting (and perhaps controversial) effect on today’s generation of viewers.

In its 13-year reign, we have watched The Simpsons grow and take form. Characters have died, the family has wreaked havoc on almost every continent and our favorite personalities have developed catch-phrases that we’ve come to love.

Senior David Fishman is a self-described “avid watcher” of The Simpsons ,who has “probably not missed more than one or two of the new episodes in the past few years.”

“The comedy is on so many levels, it just boggles my mind. It’s sheer humor,” said Fishman. He would call it “The All-American TV show” because the it has to cope with all the same problems as the rest of the world, “but they get to deal with them in ways we only wish we could.”

However, junior Torrie Higgins disagreed. “I watch

The Simpsons occasionally, but overall I don’t think it’s the best show out there.” Higgins, whose parents didn’t let her watch it until she was about ten, doesn’t think she missed out on anything.

“My mom didn’t want me to watch it because of the crude, potty-humor language they used. As a result, I guess I was a little more naive to the jokes they made and probably didn’t use the same language as my friends who did watch it,” said Higgins.

Freshman Meghan Johnson, whose parents also

disapproved of The Simpsons, found the show to be similarly unexciting. “I think it’s stupid, and there’s really no point to the show. I watch it once a month, maybe,” said Johnson.

Like many of today’s television shows, much of the controversy surrounding The Simpsons stems from its use of questionable language and violence.

“I don’t think younger kids should watch it. It’s not a

very good influence on those people who are so impressionable, and you never know what kind of ideas they might get into their heads,” said Johnson.

Conversely, Fishman said, “While some people might say it has a negative influence on kids, I think it teaches a lot of valuable lessons also. Because it covers so many broad topics and issues, it’s bound to touch on violent things too. Any well-rounded show has to.”

Not only does the show seem to embody what some would call “crude” or “slapstick” comedy, but is more striking on a different level. Many viewers appreciate its complex levels of nuances and allusions to today’s social ` issues. In fact, The Simpsons has even found its way into the classroom. ”We used to watch it in History class because a lot of the episodes are very satirical and have much deeper meanings,” said Fishman. “The show makes points that most people would totally miss, so it’s actually an intricate and opinionated show, even though has an outward appearances of slapstick comedy.”

Whether today’s fans appreciate The Simpsons’s seemingly random humor, or its comic use of phrases, words and even non-words, they may agree that the show is better than ever. Through its incorporation of many musical, historical, biblical and literary allusions, it seems to have shaped a national consciousness that is hopefully more aware of today’s world.

Despite rumors that its creator, Matt Groening, was contemplating canceling the show sometime soon, the notion is completely untrue, according to recent newspaper articles. Groening denied the circulating gossip that the show is running out of funny ideas with which to keep its loyal fan base satisfied. The Simpsons lose its popularity? “That’s un-possible!”

Quiz: How well do you know your Simpsons?

1. In “Rosebud,” what rock group plays at Mr. Burns’ birthday party? a. Canned Heat b. Oingo Boingo c The Ramones d. Flock of Seagulls 2. In “Marge in Chains,” what is “Sun & Run?” a. A tanning lotion and a laxative in one b. A two-mile race along Lake Springfield c. A tanning and exercise spa d. Like “Surf and Turf,” only better

3. In “Homer Loves Flanders,” what does Homer name his new football? a. Stitchface b. Gorilla-Arms Linda c. Punty d. Mr. Oblong 4. In “Homer Badman,” which word can’t Homer say without giggling like a schoolgirl? a. Woodpecker b. Titmouse c. Weinperv d. Tromboner 5. In “Deep Space Homer,” which TV special beat a NASA launch in ratings? a. “Godzilla Presents Bible Stories: Sodom and Gamera”

b. “The Happy Little Elves Eat Lunch” c. “A Connie Chung Christmas” d. “Who Wants to Marry Dr. Fugate?”

6. In “The Springfield Connection,” why does Homer put pepper spray on his food? a. The taste is delicate yet lingering b. The fish is not quite dead c. He thinks it’s MSG d. Mmmm...incapacitating 7. In “Treehouse of Horror IV,” what did Homer do right before his wedding? a. Kissed another woman b. Ate the entire wedding cake

c. Passed out in the punch bowl d. Sang “Lady in Red” while accompanying himself on the spoons 8. In “Burns’ Heir,” how does Martin Prince audition to become Burns’ heir? a. He performs a scene from Neil Simon’s The Sunshine Boys b. He juggles chain saws c. He reads a passage from a poem he wrote entitled, “Man Cannot Walk Alone” d. He sings a musical number 9. In “22 Short Films about Springfield,” Principal Skinner tells Superinten-

dent Chalmers that there’s what in the kitchen? a. A flaming surprise b. A Doodletown Pipers CD c. Manwich fixin’s d. An aurora borealis 10. In “Lemon of Troy,” when the Springfield Lemon Tree is stolen, Bart says, “We’ll get it back, or...?” a. “...my name isn’t Bartholomew J. Simpson, Esquire.” b. “...rain down thunder ‘round their ears.” c. “...choke their rivers with our dead.” d. “...Chris Bagot isn’t short.”

11. In “Bart vs. Australia,” Lisa is impressed Bart

could do what? a. Sing all the words to “Tie Me Kangaroo Down” b. Find Australia on the map (since he can’t even find Springfield) c. Write legibly on his own butt d. Get someone to check which way the water drains down his toilet in Australia ANSWERS AT BOTTOM OF PAGE SOURCE: THE TRIVIAL SIMPSONS 2002 CALENDAR

Bart’s chalkboard punishments I will not waste chalk I will not aim for the head I will not skateboard in the halls I will not barf unless I’m sick I will not burp in class I will not expose the ignorance of the faculty I will not instigate revolution I saw nothing unusual in the teacher’s lounge I will not draw naked ladies in class I will not conduct my own fire drills I did not see Elvis I will return the seeing-eye dog Funny noises are not funny I will not call my teacher “Hot Cakes” I will not snap bras Garlic gum is not funny I will not fake seizures They are laughing at me, not with me This punishment is not boring and meaningless I will not yell “fire” in a crowded classroom My name is not Dr. Death I will not encourage others to fly I will not defame New Orleans I will not fake my way through life I will not prescribe medication Tar is not a plaything I will not bury the new kid I will not Xerox my butt I will not teach others to fly It’s potato, not potatoe I will not bring sheep to class

Meet the faces and voices behind The Simpsons Homer’s “Mmms...”

Actor’s name: Dan Castellaneta Most famous characters: Homer Simpson, Krusty the Klown, Mayor Quimby, Groundskeeper Willy

“If you could be any character on The Simpsons, who would you be?”

Actor’s name: Hank Azaria Most famous characters: Moe, Apu, Police Chief Wiggum, Dr. Nick Riviera, Carl Smith, Professor Frink

Actor’s name: Harry Shearer Most famous characters: Mr. Burns, Smithers, Principal Skinner, Otto, Ned Flanders, Scratchy

Actor’s name: Yeardley Smith Most famous characters: Lisa Simpson

Actor’s name: Nancy Cartwright Most famous characters: Bart Simpson, Nelson, Rod & Tod Flanders, Mrs. Wiggum

Actor’s name: Julie Kavner Most famous characters: Marge Simpson, Patty, Selma, Grandma Bouvier

... fattening ... soylent green ... shrimp ... grapefruit ... organized crime ... beer ... sixty four slices of American cheese ... invisible cola ... candy ... convenient ... forbidden donut ... business deal ... free goo ... apple ... hamburgers ... foot-long chili dog ... Marge ... mediciney ... sacrilicious ... elephant fresh ... caramel ... bowling fresh ... urinal fresh ... slanty ... incapacitating ... beer nuts ... something ... sandwich

aBlast

the

Tuesday, May 21, 2002 “I’d like to be Selma because she has an interesting character and personality. I also think her S-shaped earrings and blue dress are cool.”

“Well, I’m not exactly sure but I definitely know that I wouldn’t want to be Maude Flanders because I’d die listening to him go ‘howdily-doo’ all the time.”

—Johana Flores, freshman

—Hye Min Kim, sophomore

“I want to be Bart because he always seems to have fun with his pranks and everything. He also gets his way out whenever he is in trouble.”

—Chris Frost, junior

“I’d probably be Dr. Nick, because not everyone can understand the jokes that he makes.”

“Maggie, because although she’s always there when things happen but at the same time she’s not really involved.

—Elizabeth Lubelfeld, senior

—Jonthan York, history teacher

ANSWERS: 1)C 2)A 3)A 4)B 5)C 6)D 7)B 8)D 9)D 10)C 11)C

13

14Is image nothing? aBlast Juniors taste sweet success

the

Tuesday May 21, 2002

a

tomic reactions

Who has the better advertising campaign: Coke or Pepsi?

by David Covucci Co-Editor in Chief

One fateful day in Computer Graphics Class, Bob Christie put forth a challenge to his students: “Take your artwork to another level.” That may seem more like a coach’s demand to his players than an art teacher’s to his students, but it seemed to get the message across. Two of his students have gone on to win prizes at national competitions for artwork.

That day, junior Roy Jang was listening to Christie. After pondering his possibilities, he got with another student, junior James McIntyre and made history. Over the next two classes, the two took countless pictures of McIntyre and several mirrors. The next day, he sat down at his computer and by the time the bell rang, had come out with “Confused Mind.” It is nearly a dozen mirrors centered on McIntyre, all showing his reflection.

“It took a lot of hard work to make everything look exactly right,” said Jang, “but

Art of Harmony Contest, which was sponsored by the Coca-Cola Corporation. Over several thousand entries were received for the contest, which was themed around promoting racial harmony and equality. Only eight people won, and Vega’s design was chosen as one of those top entries. His design has ten people, holding ten flags from ten nations. All the flags then blend into the red Coca-Cola logo.

Vega won a $5000 Savings Bond for his effort. Moreover, his artwork, along with the seven other winners is to be displayed prominently on a building in downtown D.C., which has yet to be picked. In addition to that, the school will be receiving a brand new Coke machine with his design on the front.

(This is line is subject to change, it will probably have come in by the time we publish).

Jang and Vega have both been rewarded handsomely for their efforts, but Jang feels that the biggest reward will be if, thanks to his new found prominence, more students start to take Computer Graphics. “Sign up, you’ll love it,” he said.

it worked out.”

Contest in New York City. There, Jang Christie then entered Jang’s artwork became one of 716 to receive a national along with several other students’ in a award. He won $100 and his artwork will be Virginia state contest. Jang went o n display in the Corcoran Gallery of in not knowing what to Art, although the dates have yet expect and came to be given. out winning.

Jang was even more “It was the surprised at his first first competition place at nationals than that I had ever he was at his place at been entered states. “I felt that in,” said Jang. there was a lot of other “I was surdeserving artwork. prised when When the judges came the picked me. around and picked me, I wasn’t expecting I was just surprised,” to win anything.” said Jang.

All the state Junior Ronald winners then Vega was also in went on to the Christie’s class when Scholastic he heard the chalAmerican lenge. He decided to Vega won a $5000 savings bond for his design submitted enter in the National Visions to the National Art of Harmony Contest.

‘Always’ advertising “[I think] Pepsi because they have the best product placement.”

1904 Coke is advertised as “Delicious and refreshing”

1922

1939

“Things go better with coke”

“Thirst asks nothing more”

1963 “Thirst knows no season”

1982

2002

“Coke it is”

“Always Coca-Cola”

—Josh Lewin freshman

The ‘Joy’ of second-place 1898 Pepsi Created “Coke because the Coke commercials are emotionally touching.”

1941

1961

“Bigger drink, better taste”

“Pepsi, for those who think young”

1982 “Pepsi’s got your taste for life”

1991 “You got the right one, uh huh!”

2002 “Joy of Pepsi”

—Karina Luna sophomore

y r o t s e h T : p o p y t Dir s r a w a l o c e h t f o “Pepsi because of the Pepsi challenge” —Ric Farrell junior

“Pepsi because the Britney Spears commercial rocks.”

By Maggie Owner Staff Writer

What do Britney Spears, Cindy Crawford, Michael Jackson and Marlon Brando all have in common? They have all appeared in Pepsi commercials. Pepsi and Coke are the two leading soft drink competitors in the world, and their main weapon against each other in this battle has been advertising.

The “Cola War” between Coca-Cola and Pepsi-Cola has been raging since the early 1900s, when PepsiCo tried to break into a market monopolized by the Coca-Cola company. In the early 1930s, the press was wondering whether they would see another Coca-Cola. They had their questions answered by the mid 1930s, when Pepsi had a solid distribution network through a large chain of confectionery stores.

Pepsi knew that if they wanted to compete with a large corporation such as Coca-Cola, they would have to do two things: maintain low prices that enticed their original customers and begin to advertise to bring in new customers.

Inspiration motivated Walter Mack, the

president of PepsiCo, early 1939. Knowing he had to get the word out about Pepsi to hundreds of people at a time, he told a skywriter if he could keep the Pepsi-Cola name in the air and legible for three minutes then he would pay him $50; if the skywriter failed, he would not be paid. The stunt made a big impression since most people had never seen skywriting or heard of Pepsi-Cola.

Later that year, Mack solved his advertising predicament. PepsiCo decided to put words to an English song called “Do Ye Ken John Peel.” The jingle proved successful; within two weeks sales results were apparent and people on the street were humming the catchy tune.

Coke, on the other hand, was not worried about rising competition; at the time, the Coca-Cola company was 13 times the size of PepsiCo. Coca-cola was only shelling out a few million dollars a year on advertising to maintain its dominant position in the soft drink business.

Two decades later Coke started to take notice of Pepsi’s growth and decided to respond. Coca-Cola ran an advertisement targeting a broad range of consumers: “Coca-

Coca is a delightful, palatable, healthful beverage. It relieves fatigue and is indispensable for business and professional men students, wheelmen and athletes. Relieves mental and physical exhaustion and is the favorite drink for ladies when thirsty, weary, despondent.” The advertisement reaffirmed Coke’s position as the number one soft drink in America.

Pepsi and Coke had competed for the spot of best soft drink since the 30s, but nobody had ever tested them against each other until the summer of 1975. As an ad campaign, Pepsi decided to randomly select people to take “The Pepsi Challenge,” a taste test devised to see whether they would prefer Pepsi over Coke. The results were overwhelming in favor of Pepsi. “The Challenge” validated the rivalry between Pepsi and Coke.

Advertising is the reason Coca-Cola is the world’s largest drink company, controlling more than half of the global soft drink market. Coke spent an estimated $68.9 billion on advertising in 2001, according, to Branding Consultancy Interbrand. Pepsi is about half the size of Coke, but is still its

main competitor.

The two companies tend to have similar products, but different advertising techniques. For instance the PepsiCo company owns Pepsi, Mr. Pibb and Gatorade, while the Coca-Cola company owns Coca-Cola, Mug Root Beer, and Powerade. When it comes to their advertising strategies, the two companies differ greatly. Pepsi targets the youth of society, while Coca-Cola tries to remains classic and ageless. This is shown in their slogans. Coke’s slogan since 1993 has been “Always Coca-Cola,” while Pepsi’s slogan for 2002 is “Pepsi, for those who think young.”

The strategies are apparent in their commercials as well; Coca-Cola hires everyday people to sell its product, while Pepsi relies on pop stars, models, singers, and movies stars for endorsements.

Coca-Cola may have a pretty good lead in the “Cola Wars” but do not discount Pepsi yet.

They have been learning beneficial advertising tactics for over 70 years. Thus the reason Pepsi-Cola is Coca-Cola’s main competitor.

So, let the battle continue.

—Erin Lutz

Szechuan Star “We are the Best Chinese Restaurant”

Luncheon Special * Dinner * Carryout Open 7 Days a Week 256-1111 * 256-1113

a

rts

senior

6960-H Bradlick Shopping Center, Annandale VA 22003

Happy 13th Birthday Pink Posey Florist Gere Caputo Lindsey Downen!!!

Owner STUDENT 703-941-7465 DISCOUNTS

Love Mom, Dad and Heather

7857-A Heritage Drive Annandale, VA 22003

Located in Heritage Shopping Center

March 3, 2002 5970 Burnside Landing Dr Burke, VA 22015 Food Editor Washington Post Dear Food Editor, I am not in the habit of writing a letter to anyone about a restaurant (even one I enjoy), but this gem of a family restaurant deserves someone to toot its horn for it!

I hope you will consider trying “Da Vinci Family Restaurant” in the Barcroft Shopping Center on Columbia Pike.

This place could easily define the term “family restaurant.”

The minute you walk in, you are greeted as if by an old

friend by the owner, and several employees, even if it is your first visit.

As you order and wait for your dinner, it becomes obvious that indeed, many of the patrons are regulars, and know not only the owner and his employees, but have come to know one another as well. This place feels homey in the best sense of the word. You feel relaxed, catered to, and leave a very satisfied consumer.

Not only is this atmosphere comfortable and pleasant, but the food is terrific! Serving a blend of Greek, Italian and American fare, this is a place even my picky family can find something on the menu that everyone will love.

All the food I have here has been outstanding, but the baklava was to die for. I’ve lived in four states, and tried baklava all over the U.S., but both my husband and I agree that we have never tasted anything so divine as that served at Da Vinci’s. The dessert managed to have a hint of sweetness, but didn’t overpower the nuts. It was also the perfect texture (not too sticky

advertisment

Da Vinci Family Restaurant

or gooey, which is the fatal flaw of many baklavas) allowing the pastry to be flaky and shine as another integral part of the dessert.

In closing, I encourage all my friends to try this homey restaurant. No matter where you’re coming from, it is worth the drive.

Sincerely, Nancy S. Hoeser

Turkey and Cheese Sub.................5.25

Great Beginnings

with lettuce, tomato and mayonnaise

Greek Appetizer.............................5.25 Feta cheese. kalamata olives, spinach pie, grape leaves, and pepperoncini

Sandwiches Served with chips and a pickle Hamburger......................................4.50 with lettuce, tomato, mayonnaise, and onion

Spinach Pie Appetizer.....................7.50 A Greek pastry filled with spinach, feta cheese, onion and fresh garlic wrapped in fillo dough.

Served w/ Greek salad

Cheeseburger.....................................4.95 with lettuce, tomato, mayonnaise, and onion

Mozzarella Sticks..........................4.95 Breaded mozzarella sticks served with our homemade marinara

Bacon Cheeseburger........................5.25 with lettuce, tomato, mayonnaise, and onion

Buffalo Wings...............................5.25 Served mild, meaty and delicious with celery sticks and bleu cheese dressing

Gyro Sandwich.................................5.25 sliced lamb and beef on pita bread with lettuce, tomato, onion, feta cheese, and yogurt sauce

Calamari Rings.............................6.50 Fried Squid served with our homemade marinara

Souvlaki Sandwich.........................5.25 pork tenderloin on pita bread with lettuce, tomato, onion, feta cheese, and yogurt

Hot Peppers..................................4.95 Jalapenos stuffed with ricotta cheese and then lightly breaded, served with our homemade tomato sauce Hummus with Pita.........................4.25 Falafal...........................................4.25 Served with pita bread, tzatziki sauce Great Soups Homemade Soups of the Day.....cup 2.25 French Onion Soup............................2.25

bowl 2.75 2.75

(703) 916 - 1147 6347 Columbia Pike (Barcroft Shopping Center)

Mon - Sat 11-10 Sun 12-9

Fresh Salads

Chef Salad........................................................7.50 Julienne of turkey, ham, American and mozzarella cheeses, egg, lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers and onions Tuna Salad.........................................................7.50 Fresh greens and tomatoes served with homemade tuna Garden Salad.....................................................3.75 Fresh greens with radishes, cucumbers, onions and tomatoes Your choice of dressing: House Greek. Italian, Thousand Island, Bleu Cheese, Ranch, Honey Mustard, & French Omelettes All served with French Fries and Toast Omelettes Served 11am-5pm Spinach Feta Cheese Omelette with onions 6.95 Western Omelette with green pepper, onions, ham...............................................................6.95 Cheese Omelette with choice of American, provolone......................................................6.95 Greek Omelette with feta cheese, tomato, onions............................................................6.95 Ham & Cheese Omelette....................................................... 6.95 Italian House Specials All dinner entrees served with salad & bread Pasta Alfredo.........................................9.25 With creamy white sauce and mushrooms, served over pasta Ravioli.................................................9.25 Baked ravioli and special Italian blend of cheesefilled pasta and marinara sauce Eggplant Parmigiana.................................10.95 Fresh eggplant dipped in special butter with melted cheese and marinara sauce. Served with pasta Spaghetti Kalamata...................................9.95 Roasted peppers, capers, fresh mushrooms, fresh tomatoes, onions, garlic, kalamata olives, basil and romano cheese tossed with pasta Tortellini................................................9.25 Beef tortellini baked with your choice of marinara or alfredo sauce Stuffed Shells..........................................9.25 Stuffed shells baked with marinara sauce and mozzarella cheese Baked Cheese Manicotti..............................9.25 Cheese manicotti baked with marinara sauce and mozzarella cheese Baked Italian Combo.................................11.25 Ravioli, manicotti, Italian sausage and meatballs baked over spaghetti w/marinara sauce & cheese

Family Restaurant

Chicken Souvlaki Sandwich.............5.25 grilled chicken with lettuce, tomato, onion, feta cheese, and yogurt sauce

features an

Tuna Melt..........................................5.25 baked pita & cheese, wrapped around our tuna salad, with lettuce and tomato

player.

accordian

Hot Turkey........................................5.25 baked pita & cheese, wrapped around sliced turkey breast, with lettuce and tomato Grilled Chicken Sandwich................5.25 tender grilled chicken on a roll, with lettuce, tomato, and onion B.B.Q. Sandwich...............................5.25 Pork bbq on a roll with coleslaw

Greek Salad...........................small 6.50 large 8.50 Fresh greens, tomatoes, kalamata olives, pepperoncini, green pepper, feta cheese, onion, with our homemade dressing Greek Salad Supreme............small 8.95 large 9.95 With your choice of gyro meat or chicken, dolmada pita bread

Da Vinci

and melted mozzarella cheese.

Served with rice and vegetables.

Lasagna...................................................10.95 Homemade goodness from our kitchen-pasta, seasoned beef, a blend of cheeses and fresh marinara.

Chicken Kabob................................................11.95 Charbroiled chicken breast grilled with green peppers, onions and tomatoes. Served with rice.

Chicken Marsala..........................................11.25 Boneless chicken breast sauteed in Marsala wine and mushrooms. Served over pasta.

Chicken Cacciatori.......................................11.25 Fresh boneless chicken breast with green peppers, tomato, onions, and parsley. Served with pasta Veal Parmegiana..........................................12.95 Fresh veal cutlet sauteed then topped with homemade marinara sauce, fresh basil and melted mozzarella cheese. Served with pasta

Shish Kabob...................................................11.95 Marinated pork tenderloin grilled with green peppers, onions, tomatoes. Served with rice.

BBQ Platter....................................................9.25 Served with French fried and cole slaw or house salad BBQ Grilled Chicken Platter...............................9.25 Chicken breast charbroiled served with French fries and cole slaw or house salad.

Club Sandwich..................................5.25 turkey, ham and cheese, lettuce, tomato, mayonnaise B.L.T...................................................4.50 classic bacon, lettuce, and tomato on toast, with mayonnaise Fish Sandwich.................................5.25 fried flounder with tartar sauce, lettuce, tomato Reuben Deluxe................................5.25 corned beef, sauerkraut, provolone, thousand island, and rye bread Grilled Cheese.................................3.50 grilled golden brown, add bacon or ham $1.00 ext Specialty Pizza

Seafood Specialties

9” 12” 16” Greek Pizza.............10.95 13.70 16.25 Gyro meat, feta, onion, black olives, fresh tomatoes, tomato sauce, and mozzarella cheese

Veal Marsala..............................................12.95 Milk-fed veal medallions sauteed in Marsala wine and mushrooms. Served with pasta

Fried Shrimp......................................................11.50 Golden fried shrimp served with French fries and cole slaw

Four Seasons...........8.95 11.70 14.25 Fresh tomatoes, mushrooms, artichokes, roasted red peppers, tomato sauce, and mozzarella cheese

Veal and Eggplant Melanzana...........................12.95 Fresh veal and eggplant sauteed then topped with homemade marinara sauce, fresh basil and melted mozzarella cheese, served with pasta

Fried Flounder....................................................11.50 Golden fried flounder served with French fries and cole slaw

Pizza Rustica...........8.95 11.70 14.25 Italian sausage, Canadian bacon, pepperoni, roasted peppers, tomato sauce, and mozzarella cheese

Pasta & Baked Spaghetti Spaghetti with Marinara Sauce........................8.95 Spaghetti with Meat Sauce................................9.25 Spaghetti with Meat Ball or Italian Sausage................................................................9.75 Spaghetti Combination.....................................10.50 #1 Baked Spaghetti.............................................9.25 with marinara sauce and mozzarella cheese #2

Baked Spaghetti pepperoni.........................9.95

#3 Baked Spaghetti w/mushrooms....................9.95 #4 Baked Spaghetti w/sausage or meatballs...........................................................10.50 #5 Baked Spaghetti......................................11.95 pepperoni, mushroom, sausage, meatball Greek Specialties & BBQ ra

Baked Mousaka...........................................10.95 Layers of seasoned ground beef, eggplant potato, topped w/bechamel sauce, served w/rice & vegetables.

Gyro Platter.................................................9.50 Lamb and beef cooked on open spit, served with pita tzatziki, French fries and a Greek salad Chicken Sovlaki Platter....................................9.95 Marinated chicken breast served with pita tzatziki and Greek salad and French fries.

Sovlaki Platter................................................9.95 Marinated pork tenderloin, served with pita tzatziki, sauce, French fries and a Greek salad

Shrimp Alfredo...................................................12.95 With creamy white sauce, mushrooms. Served with fettuccini Shrimp Scampi.....................................................12.95 Gulf shrimp sauteed in butter, garlic sauce. With touch of wine. Served over pasta.

Salmon Sardo.....................................................13.50 Sauteed salmon with fresh tomato, fresh garlic, basil, extra virgin olive oil, served with pasta or rice.

Italian Flounder.................................................13.95 Sauteed flounder in a wine fresh tomatoes, onions, capers and mushrooms. Served with rice.

Shrimp Santorini..................................................13.50 Gulf shrimp, sauteed with onion garlic, fresh tomatoes, green peppers, and feta cheese. Served with rice & vegetables.

Subs Served with chips and a pickle Steak and Cheese..........................................5.25 with lettuce, tomato, grilled onion and mayonnaise Ham and Cheese.............................................5.25 with lettuce, tomato and mayonnaise Meatball and Cheese.......................................5.25 meatballs, covered with tomato sauce and melted mozzarella Italian Sausage................................................5.25 with grilled onions, tomato sauce, and mozzarella cheese..

Veal Parmegiana.............................................5.25 breaded veal in a tasty sauce and melted mozzarella cheese

Chicken Fettuccini Alfredo...........................11.25 Boneless chicken breast sauteed in creamy white sauce and mushrooms. Served with pasta

Spanakopita Dinner..........................................9.50 Flaky phyllo dough, surrounding a seasoned mixture of spinach, onions and feta with a side of rice and vegetables.

Chicken Parmegiana.......................................5.25 boneless chicken breast in a zesty sauce , and melted mozzarella

Chicken Parmegiana....................................11.25 Fresh breaded chicken breasted sauteed then topped with homemade marinara sauce, fresh basil

Chicken Santorini.............................................10.95 Chicken breast sauteed with onions, garlic, fresh tomatoes, green peppers topped with feta cheese.

Eggplant Parmegiana....................................5.25 breaded eggplant, in a tsty sauce, and melted mozzarella

Pizza Bianca............8.95 11.70 14.25 Feta cheese, and romano cheese, basil, garlic, olive oil and mozzarella cheese Pizza Pollo................8.95 11.70 14.25 Roasted peppers, chicken breast, olive oil, romano cheese, basil and mozzarella cheese Pizza Melanzana.....8.95 11.70 14.25 Eggplant, fresh tomatoes, black olives, garlic, olive oil and mozzarella Hawaiian Pizza.......8.95 11.70 14.25 Ham, pineapple, tomato sauce and mozzarella cheese Three Cheese Pizza..8.95 11.70 14.25 Mozzarella cheese, feta cheese & ricotta cheese, basil, garlic, and tomato sauce Spinach Pizza...........8.95 11.70 14.25 Ricotta, parmesan, mozzarella cheese w/spinach, basil, garlic & olive oil Seafood Fettuccini.................................................13.95 Gulf shrimp, jumbo scallops, mushrooms, with alfredo sauce or marinara over fettuccini.

aBlast

the

Deep Fried Seafood Combo.......................................................13.25 Fried flounder, shrimp, breaded calamari and crab cake. Served w/cole slaw, French fries & cocktail or tarter sauce.

Broiled Flounder.......................................13.25 Flame seared and pan finished filet, in white wine, garlic, served with Greek potatoes and vegetables

Tuesday, May 21, 2001

Da Vinci’s Broiled Salmon.........................................13.25 Flame seared and pan finished filet in white wine, garlic. Served with Greek potatoes and vegetables

15

16 aBlast

Boys lax looks to rebound tomorrow

by Chris Bagot Sports Editor

the

Tuesday, May 21, 2002

S potlight A thlete

Stars of Spring sports

Sophomore pole vaulter Elizabeth Gill is currently third in the Patriot District.

Name: Elizabeth Gill Grade: 10 Sport: Sping Track Position (s): pole vault Notable Achievements: placed 4th in District meet, qualified for Regionals, set girls school pole vaulting record (86) and tied the record in spring What’s in your CD player?

Brittany Spears Personal: Elizabeth carries a 3.6 GPA and she volunteers at INOVA hospital in Fairfax. For a summer job, she works as a camp counselor at the Jewish Community Center (JCC).

“In the beginning of the year I tried way hard, but since it’s playoff time, I’m balls to the wall.”

—Ryan Daggle, junior

After suffering a heartbreaking overtime loss to Lake Braddock in the district semifinals, the Atoms lacrosse team looks forward to a match up on the road with the second seed in the National District, the loser of the Mount Vernon/ Edison game yesterday, in the regional first round. The Atoms, hoping to avenge the loss to the same Lake Braddock team the last game of the regular season, saw Lake Braddock rally from a three goal deficit in the games final minutes to force overtime. Three minutes into overtime Lake Braddock scored the winning goal and a berth in the district finals against Robinson.

“The kids played great until the end. I thought we had them, but they [Lake Braddock] found a way to win,” said Head Coach Bill Maglisceau.

The Atoms jumped out to an early lead against Lake Braddock 31 in the first quarter. The second quarter turned into a defensive

SEAN SULLIVAN

Tony Cavalero dodges a defender while junior Erik Ronney runs into position.

struggle as the defense clamped down and both teams were held scoreless. The Atoms came out hot after halftime with juniors Jordan Groom and Chris Rauer each scoring a goal and increasing the lead to 5-1.

“We played extremely tough and

Girls and boys soccer seasons end in districts

by Jared Smith and Sam Molavi Staff Writers

The boys soccer team finished off their year with a disappointing 1-0 loss to T.C. Williams in the first round of the Patriot District Tournament.

“We played hard for most of the game but we have trouble finishing,” said assistant coach Eddie Latore.

The Atoms failed to tie the game after a headed ball by sophomore Matt Hubacher failed to cross the goal line.

“It was a tough loss,” said Latore, “but nevertheless we still had a good year.”

Sophomore Mike Perucci also felt disappointed with the season.

“This was a rebuilding year, next year will be better because well have more experience on the field and more team chemistry.”

Perucci’s most memorable highlight of this season was when the team came back from a 2-0 halftime deficit against Robinson to tie the game at 2-2 only to fall the Rams 3-2 after a goal with under 4 minutes to go. On the other side of things, two Atoms players made 1st team all district. Senior midfielder Bairon Ferrufino, who also led the team in goals, and senior forward Jesus Roa also made 1st team. Overall the Atoms finished with a 3-8 record and places 6th in the district in front of West Potomac.

The girls soccer team suffered the same fate as the boys and lost in the first round of the district tournament to West Springfield 1-0. As the sixth seed in the tournament, the girls came into the game looking to upset the Spartans, who barely defeated the Atoms in their first meeting this year. With the loss, the girls ended their season with a 2-7-1 record and sixth in the

Grade: 12 Sport: Varsity Baseball Position: SS, LF, 2B Notable Achievements: 2nd Team All-District Football, Won Sigholtz award in football How do you feel about performing in front of large crowds: “I feed off the excitement from the crowd and I love hearing our fans yell at the other team. It makes me try harder.”

Favorite Girl Scout Cookie: Tagalongs because they taste good frozen or on a slight chill

The 1998-1999 freshman boys basketball team photo shows the team asembled of current seniors.

The team had a successful year despite the fact that five freshmen played on the JV basketball team.

The photo includes two-time 1st Team All-District selection, Jay Athey (back row, far right).

ANDREW MENEGAT

Both the girls and boys soccer teams were ousted in the first round of the District tournament.

Girls lacrosse begins regionals Wednesday

by Rob Payne Staff Writer

Fighting through the post season in district playoffs, the Atoms played hard and advanced to the district semifinals. Entering the district tourney the Atoms were seeded fourth in the district, facing in the first round of district playoffs the West Potomac Wolverines; beating the Wolverines 5-4.

“We played hard,” said Head Coach Cindy Hook. “It was a tough game and an unusually low scoring game, but we came out on top in the end and that’s what mattered.”

Going into the District Semifinals the team was to face off against the first seeded Robinson Rams. During regular season play the Atoms had played a very competitive game against the Rams.

The Atoms unfortunately suffered a 14-2 loss to the Rams, who knocked them out of the district tourney.

However, the Atoms will be playing in the regional tourney.

The winner of the National District Championship between Yorktown and Mount Vernon will decide the Atoms first opponents in the regional tournament.

“I’m really looking forward to playing in regionals,” said sophomore Lindsay Miller. “The team is really psyched up for the tournament and I think that we should do really well.”

The Atoms will play their first round of regional play on Wednesday at 7:15 p.m. against the winner of the National District Championship.

“Getting into regional tournament is half the battle,” said Hook. “I told the team at the beginning of the season that we had a chance to go farther than any other girl lacrosse team here at AHS has gone before. I believed it then and I believe it even more now especially after seeing the effort and amount of work that the girls have invested this season. I feel really confident entering into the regional tournament. We can compete with any other team in the region on any given day.”

“We can compete with any other team in the region on any given day.”

—Cindy Hook, Head Coach SEAN SULLIVAN

Senior Katie Jenkins practices the basics.

A look ahead at the year in sports . . .

Aside from sports, congratulations to my Human Anatomy teacher, Mrs. Edwards winner of the above and beyond teacher award

s

ports

Personal: Chris carries a 3.4 G.P.A is a bag boy at Safeway. He recently celebrated his 18th birthday.

Bagot’s favorite character from “The Sandlot” is Benny “The Jet” Rodriguez. On the weekends, Chris can be found popping in VHS copies of Air Bud, Mighty Ducks 2 and Cool Runnings.

Cinka, you dead mon? . . . Ya mon.

Patriot District.

“We had done well against West Springfield in our previous meeting, and I felt that the girls were coming into this game with great attitudes,” said coach Mark Cascio. “But West Springfield had a lot more depth than us and we couldn’t keep up in the fourth quarter.”

The team is only going to be losing three seniors from this year’s lineup, so expectations are high for next year.

Some key returning starters are juniors Kara Burney, Mary Burke and sophomore Sara Bizer, who was the leading scorer on the team this year.

“After our last game, Molly [Sherman] and I were really emotional because it was the end of our high school career,” said senior captain Heather McDonald. “I feel really confident though that next year the team will be strong because the underclassmen are solid.”

A look back in time . . .

Senior Christopher Bagot has a younger, taller brother Brian who pole vaults.

Name: Christopher Bagot

well as a team unit,” said Rauer.

“The worst way to lose is by one in overtime.”

Then Lake Braddock started their comeback, scoring two goals and shrinking the lead to 5-3. Nolan scored a goal for the Atoms putting them up 6-3 with less than six

minutes remaining. Lake Braddock scored three goals, tying the game in the final minute and pushing the contest to overtime.

In overtime each team had scoring chances, but were stopped by strong goalie play. Chris Rauer caught a pass from Keith Nolan in front of the goal but the Bruins goalie made a game saving save.

Lake Braddock took the ball down the field and Phil Salesses eventually scored the winning goal from ten yards out.

With an improvement in their shot selection, face-offs and groundballs, the Atoms have a chance to make a run in the regional tournament.

Maglisceau pointed out certain bright spots for the season.

“Rob has done a good job at goalie and improved a lot from where he has come from,” said Maglisceau. “[Rauer] can take over a game when he wants too. It’s nice as a coach to see how the kids [were] in February and to see them play this way in May makes you feel pretty good.”

by Ryan Croft Sports Editor

familiar turf. I know my Maple Leafs can outlast the Hurricanes, but I’m more certain Toronto is full of Canadien people. In the West, I understand that there is no such thing as a “sure bet” but given the chance, I would bet my house that

As the school year comes to a close, I would prefer look forward to what lies ahead in the sports world rather than dwell on what has already happened. Here is a wrap up of what to expect in the upcoming sports year. On the professional level, I’ll start with roft’s the two major sports with active olor playoffs.

NBA: With most teams ommentary focusing on the NBA Finals with down the road, the Wizards and Ryan Croft Clippers always have the draft to worry about at this time of year. I predict the Lakers handling the NJ Nets in the finals the Red Wings win the Cup. in less than six games. For the NFL: A big question around draft, the Rockets may want to opt Washington is: Will Spurrier’s to use Priceline.com to buy China’s offensive system be able to work in Yao Ming a plane ticket to the U.S. the NFL? My answer . . . it doesn’t because as the first overall selection, have to. With former Ravens coach his price tag will break the bank. By Marvin Lewis and a star-studded the way, those checks will be sent group of defensive personnel, the directly to the National Bank of Redskins won’t have to be fretting China. about touchdowns if the defense NHL: Two recent strangers to keeps the opponent scoreless. I Stanley Cup hockey are battling it think the Redskins should win the out in the East while superpowers division and, depending on the Detroit and Colorado are fighting on effectiveness of the offense, they

C

should make some noise come playoff time. The AFC sleeper team in this NFL season will be the Oakland Raiders who, just last playoffs, lost to New England on a questionable call. Don’t be surprised if they make it back to the top of the AFC this year.

Major League Baseball: To round out the major four sports, I’ll report on my least favorite pastime, baseball. To mention the World Series and not the Yankees in the same breath would be erroneous, but this season the trend will end and the Red Sox will reign in the AL. With solid pitching an consistent hitting, the Sox should avenge the “Curse of the Bambino” and this is their year to take the World Series.

College Football: Florida Gators football without Steve Spurrier is like Batman without Robin; the team just won’t be the same. With so many quality players exiting college early for the draft, very few teams will have the experience or depth to be able to compete with Miami next season. I expect the ’Canes to repeat as NCAA champions, but keep your eye out for the D-III school Bridgewater.

With wide receiver Chris Bagot expected to walk on in the fall, ANYTHING CAN HAPPEN. College basketball: As Shakespeare once said: “There is small choice in rotten apples.” To apply Shakespeare’s theory to NCAA basketball, one could say that all the good players are gone.

Nonetheless, with possibly three returning starters and a strong recruiting class, Duke is the preseason favorite. Maryland will have a tough time defending its first national championship losing arguably its four best players from last year.

Boys Lacrosse: Although not too many people expected this year’s AHS team to have such a great record, it did thanks in large part to rigorous preparation, coaching and hard work. Next year’s team looks promising with four of six starters on attack and defense returning in addition to the team’s two leading scorers. If the team can plug holes left by departing seniors at goalie and midfield, the team has a shot to go even further in Regionals. Best of luck in the future.

Yo Chris Flowers: Where’s my game of one on one?

game against West Springfield was postponed for a day.

The Atoms seemed to lose their momentum during the West Potomac game until the fifth inning, after the The softball team finished up their season with a loss rain delay. After the fifth, the Atoms pulled away with against West Springfield in the first round of the district two more runs. tournament.

Hassas pitched the entire game and struck out 13 They finished their regular season with a shutout batters. Annandale had 11 base hits throughout the against West Potomac, 6-0, after losing 4-5 to Hayfield game and only gave up four. the day before. The Hayfield game Despite the teams’ hard work, dset the Atoms as the sixth seed in they did not qualify for regionals. the district.

Their final record is 3-13. veryone contributed a lot to “Everyone contributed a lot to “We had a great season, despite this game. I think that this game,” said coach Jill our loss at districts,” said sophoeveryone came out pumped Hammond “I think that everyone more captain Erin O’Brien. “It’s came out pumped because of senior more important that we played and because of senior night. night and we were all ready to worked hard this season and we can —Jill Hammond play.” focus on getting ready for next years Head Coach The game was almost canceled season.” due to inclimate weather, but after The game against West Potomac 20 minutes the weather cleared and the game was also happened to be Senior night. The team had five resumed. seniors. Out of the five seniors Lindsay Quigley is the This game started off quickly with Junior Dorsa only player that has been on the team for four years.

Hassas striking out the first three batters on only nine “I’m really glad that I have gotten to know Quigley pitches. Then Annandale’s offense went on a four-run over the past four years, she now feels more like a little rally during the bottom of the first. sister to me, and I’d like to ` thank Mr. and Mrs. Quigley Both games fell victim to weather. The game against for letting me feel like a part of their family,” said West Potomac was delayed for only 20 minutes, but the Hammond while announcing the seniors on to the field.

by Paul Gleason Staff Writer

e

SEAN SULLIVAN

Junior Dorsa Hassas extends for a pitch during a recent home game. The softball team will play Robinson in the firs round of Districts this Friday.

sports

Softball battles in District tournament

The Atoms, who finished the regular season overall 8-13, 3-9 in the district and seeded sixth, defeated the No. 3 seeded Lake Braddock Bruins 4-2 on May 15 to continue on to the semifinal game against West Springfield, which was played last night, however the game ended after press time. The winner of last night’s game will compete in the District Championship tonight at 7 p.m. against Hayfield. “[The Lake Braddock game] was the best game of the year,” said coach Matthew Caudle.

During the top of the first inning against the Bruins, it was evident that the Atoms were playing to win. RBI were earned by senior Kevin Rudd who drove in junior Travis Johnson, junior Bobby Morganthaler who brought home senior Willie Freeman, and senior Matt Bickert who brought Rudd in to make their lead 3-0.

Due to great defense played by the Atoms and pitching by Johnson who managed to throw 13 strikeouts, it wasn’t until the bottom of the fifth inning until the Bruins were able to put runs on the board.

“Travis Johnson was dominating on the hill,” said Caudle. “Everybody contributed offensively and

Justin Klunk, Sr. 0 IP 12 strikeouts .296 BA Evan Ashe, So. .333 BA Chris Bagot, Sr. .308 BA 8 RBI Matt Bickert, Sr. .309 BA 12 RBI

Baseball knocks off Lake Braddock, looks to advance

by Kristie Moore Atomic Athletics Editor

BASEBALL STATS (AS OF MAY 19) Travis Johnson, Jr. .407 BA 3 HR 17 RBI

mentally everyone came ready to play.”

The Atoms held them to two runs and an amazing diving catch in foul territory by Rudd helped keep their lead. In the top of the sixth inning the Atoms were able to increase their lead by one when Bickert stole home making their lead 4-2, which they were able to hold out through the end.

“We played well,” said Rudd. “Defense was good and we played together as a team.”

The win against Lake Braddock not only guaranteed a continuance in District Playoffs, but also qualified them for Regionals, which begins on Fri. May 24Ł.

“Hopefully we are able to go along way [in Regionals],” said Johnson. “We have an easier draw playing the National District, so we are looking forward to doing well.”

Making 1st Team All-District were senior Justin Klunk for outfield and Johnson for third base. Receiving Honorable Mention were Freeman for catcher and sophomore Evan Ashe for second base.

“I expect them to play well for the rest of the year,” said Caudle. “There can be no let downs. If the seniors let down, their career is over and it’s just that simple.”

Bob Morgenthaler, Jr. .295 BA 12 RBI BOYS LACROSSE STATS Tony Cavalero, Sr 23 G, 14 A, 37 pts 127 groundballs Chris Rauer, Jr 31 G, 3 A, 34 pts 38 groundballs Ryan Teichler, Jr 25 G, 16 A, 42 pts 51 groundballs Keith Nolan, Sr 11 G, 9 A, 20 pts 67 groundballs Jordan Groom, Jr 21 G, 6 A, 27 pts 24 groundballs Pat McMurray, Soph 29 groundballs

SEAN SULLIVAN

Chris Hogeboom, Sr 28 groundballs Sam Molavi, Sr. 0 G, 2 A, 4 swings and misses

Senior first baseman/designated hitter Matt Bickert stands in at the plate against Hayfield on Senior Night.

UPCOMING EVENTS

Spring Track excels at Districts, now looks to Regionals

by Evan Ashe Staff writer

(703) 813 - 6262

Pick 5! l large, up to 5 toppings

1 large 1 topping 2 litter coke

$10.99

$9.99

limited time only

limited time only

Atoms Special 1 large 1 topping pizza, carryout

$7.99

limited time only

SURPRISE!

Birthday Party at Sam Molavi’s House Friday May 25, 2002 *Bring Your Own Mountain Dew Code Red*

The members of the AHS track team will participate in regional competition this Thursday and Friday for a chance to qualify for states in their events.

In the Atoms last meet the boys track team enjoyed great success.

Senior Moh Williams took first in the boys 110 meter hurdles and the 300 meter hurdles.

“There’s competition, but I’m going to win the region in the 110 and 300,” said Williams, “All I have to do is turn it up and leave it all on the track. After all, it’s my last regional meet in high school.”

Senior Thonnie Grisby also qualified for regionals in the first district meet last week, however, he was forced to withdraw from finals due to a family emergency.

Along with Grisby and Williams, junior Abdul Mahmoud also qualified for the region in the 110 meter hurdles, finishing 5th in the district.

“It’s my first year going from districts to regionals,” said Mahmoud, “it’s going to be nice to be with runners from all over the region, I’m really looking forward to it.

This will be a new experience for me.”

Senior David Blau finished 7th in both the 100 meters and the 200 meters.

The 4x100 meter boys relay consisting of senior David Holloway, senior David Blau, junior Monte Moyer,

Boys Lacrosse Regionals 5/21 at TBA @ 7:15 Girls Lacrosse 5/21 at TBA @ 7:15 Boys Soccer season complete Girls Soccer season complete

and junior Anthony Ortiz-Ateca, finished 3rd in the district.

“I hope to qualify for the state in the 200,” said Blau, “and our 4x100 should get in the top 6 in the region.”

Senior Doug McClellan qualified for regionals in the 400 meters and qualified for states in the 800 meters.

In the field events for the boys, Grisby won the district in the high jump. Junior Brian Park took 8th in the boys discus event, and sophomore Julio Villatoro took 8th in the shot put. Senior Noah Yates placed 5th in the pole vault, clearing a final height of 11 feet.

AHS junior Afua Amponsah finished 1st in the 100 meter hurdles, and 3rd in the 100 meter dash. In the girls field events Kathy Owusu-Sakyi took 5th place in the discus.

Baseball TBA Softball TBA Boys Tennis season complete Spring Track Regionals 5/24-5/25 District Honors Boys Lacrosse 1st Team Tony Cavalero, Sr. Robert Payne, Sr. Ehab Awadallah, Jr. Chris Rauer, Jr. Ryan Teichler, Jr. 2nd Team Travis Hall, Sr. Jordan Groom, Jr. Honorable Mention Keith Nolan, Sr. Baseball 1st Team Justin Klunk, Sr. Travis Johnson, Jr. Honorable Mention Willy Freeman, Sr.

aBlast

the

Tuesday, May 21, 2002

17

LINDA FAIRALL

Junior pole vaulter Mohamed Bhatti stretches to ensure he does not “pull a hammy.”

The New Guy

18

The Webslinger Breaks Records

aBlast

the

Tuesday, May 21, 2002

Soundtrack to the summer movie, it includes an eclectic ensemble of artists: Outkast, Kylie Minogue and Sugar Ray.

emotional transformation what gives Spider man the outstanding-for-an-action movie quality.

The movie, about a geek’s evolution to a super hero, remains faithful to most of the original story, while incorporating new elements: Despite the controversy generated by millions of geeks protesting for Parker’s organic web-shooters, this element proves insignificant and only serves to further prove that geeks will always be geeks, no matter what. Anyway, back to the movie.

Spider man starts with the angst-charged adolescent Peter Parker, who lives with his beloved uncles. Life for Peter is monotonously cruel; the bullies from school are constantly making fun of him, and Mary Jane Watson, the girl of his dreams, isn’t really aware of his existence.

However, everything changes when Peter and his class visits an exhibit on super arachnids at a scientific facility.

There, bitten by genetically altered spider, Peter obtains genetically enhanced arachnid superpowers: strength, sense and agility.

Aware of his new powers, Peter, initially, does what any other adolescent would do; use them for his own benefit. With a newly gained confidence, Peter embarks in a selfsatisfying quest for happiness. He teaches the

Entertainment

* Official Box Office Reports

Planet of the Apes

$ 72. 1 Million

The Lost World

$ 113.4 Million

Harry Potter

$ 115 Million

Colombia’s hottest export after Shakira, Un Dia Normal is Juanes’ followup album to his critically and publicly acclaimed debut.

Spiderman

Biggest Weekend Opening

tion, Parker adopts his late uncle’s credo: “with great power comes great responsibility,” and begins a personal crusade for justice. Off course, with a Green devil flying around in a scooter/rocket raising havoc Movies* in New York, things for our sticky hero get complicated.

What is most striking about Spiderman is the profound connection that develops between the audience and Parker. Unlike with other super heroes, the audience can identify and relate to Parker’s issues.

Essentially, Parker remains painfully human despite his new powers. He’s uncertain about his future, past actions haunt him, and he can’t quite get the girl. It’s Peter Parker, not Spiderman, who the movie really focuses on. The movie’s title is deceiving,

$ 68. 1 Million

Moby’s latest album, 18 includes the hit “We are all made of stars.” Again, Moby infuses electronica with a commercial appeal.

two weeks after its high-flying opening weekend, Spiderman has achieved the impossible for a comic adapted movie; it has managed to retain momentum. Grossing more than $225 million in its second weekend, Spider man has proved it’s more than just the average two-dimensional action movie with cardboard cutout characters. The movie is the quintessential summer hit, with both a heart and a brain to support its endless web-swinging special effects and super hero battles.

Although the CGI and the action sequences are both astonishing and alluring, it’s Peter Parker’s physical and

bullies a lesson, adventurously jumps and swings across New York’s skyscrapers, and becomes an amateur wrestler to, ultimately, impress Mary Jane.

Concurrently with our hero’s transformation, Spiderman’s super villain, the Green Goblin, evolves from a desperate scientist, Norman Osborne (Willem Dafoe) to a schizophrenic, murderous armored devil.

Dafoe, with his cadaverous complexion and wicked grin, is fantastic as ruthless Osborne, a businessman/scientist on the verge of losing a profitable military contract, but comes off odd as the Goblin.

Parker’s uncle’s death is the catalyst that unleashes the good versus evil war. Feeling culpable of his uncle’s early demise, Parker is scarred forever. In his quest for redemp-

The Mummy Returns

Canadian punk/rock newcomer. Lavigne’s album is a fresh alternative for listeners. it wil be released on June 3.

by Alejandro Salinas Entertainment Editor

$ 68.5 Million

NEW CD RELEASES

although we might be amused by the gargantuan adventures of the intrepid human spider, it’s the repercussions these actions have in Parker’s everyday life what really capture and captivate audiences.

Spider man also benefits from its talented cast. Although the selection of Tobey Maguire for the role of Peter MOVIE RATING Parker at first SPIDER MAN seemed erroneous, his vulnerability and nerdy appearance inject both power and verisiThe epitome of action militude to the movies. Spiderman is a super hero. He blockbuster you can’t miss. manages to instantly change personas from the insecure Parker to the poised Spider man.

Kirsten Dunst performance as nextdoor-girl Mary Jane Watson is also noteworthy. Dunst, the creme of today’s young actresses, plays her role with a unique flirtatious spark. Her scenes with Maguire sizzle and their chemistry is palpable from the first scene they share.

The flirting reaches a paramount with the memorable, and sadly highly advertised, upside down kiss (After seeing it about 50 times on TV, the

A-

scene loses its touch).

Willem Dafoe is less fortunate with his Green Goblin character. Although he delivers an essence of true evil mixed with insanity, Dafoe overemphasizes his characters schizophrenic nature in a scene involving Norman Osborne talking to his reflection in a mirror that turns out as plain silly. This scene, and the Goblin’s comical suit remind us that this is, after all, an action summer movie, which is unfortunate; for instants, Spiderman scratches the surface of excellence.

The movie purposely leaves many issues unresolved, which will probably be addressed in the sequel. Unlike infinite other movies, Spiderman, again stresses its originality, with its ambiguous ending.

The unclear fate of the characters creates the necessity of a second part. We need, we must have a sequel to provide closure.

With Maguire, Dunst and Director, Sam Riami returning for the second installment, audiences can hardly wait.

by Alejandro Salinas Entertainment Editor

Looking for the typical teenage movie filled with cloying sexual innuendo and phony messages about developing your own personality and being true to yourself? If you answered yes, then you will by all means MOVIE RATING THE NEW GUY enjoy DJ Qualls’ performance as a hopeless high school misfit.

In The New Guy, Qualls, joined by Unless you’re interested in Eliza Dushku, you sultry Eliza Dushku shouldn’t watch this (Bring it On), Eddie movie.

Griffin (Undercover Brother) and countless star cameos including Tony Hawk and Tommy Lee, attempts to reinvent, or at least reinvigorate, the evanescent teen comedy genre with explicit scenes and his charming good looks. However, despite the movie’s funny scenes and Qualls’ goofy, likable personality, in the end, The New Guy is anything but what its title suggests. With the exception of a pie, this movie contains all the elements you would expect in your average comedy: sleazy cheerleaders, hormonal, abusive football jocks and, off course, pathetic geeks.

Qualls is Dizzy, a high school loser constantly tormented by football players, whose everyday ordeal consists of being tied up to a chair, while wearing fake breasts.

After a life-changing incident, Dizzy, the biggest zero in high school, decides to drastically alter his life. He gets himself expelled after performing several school campus pranks, and incarcerated for a misdemeanor involving a gospel choir.

In prison, Dizzy learns the rules of coolness under the guidance of a prison inmate (Eddie Griffin); get funky hair, little talk, and the crucial “crazy eyes” look.

As his alter ego, Gil, Dizzy gets invited to parties, obtains the admiration of fellow classmates, and gets the hottest girl in school.

Nevertheless, in his transition to Mr. popular, Dizzy denies his old friends and losses his true identity. Things only seem to get worse as an old enemy seeks to expose Dizzy’s shameful past.

Deja vu, anyone? The New Guy is just a motley assembly of old comedies. It combines every familiar notion ranging from classics like Revenge of the Nerds, to more recent movies. There is an absolute lack of brain or clear structured plot to support The New Guy. Yet, the movie never falls into the depths of triviality and ridicule of recent movies like Not Another Teen Movie. The factors that save The New Guy are DJ Qualls’ uniqueness as a hero and two entertaining scenes; the first one, an extended, gratuitous bikini modeling scene involving Eliza Dushku, and

C-

Qualls and Eliza Dusku star in The New Guy.

the other, an entrance to a football game a la Braveheart.

The New Guy is essentially a one hour and 40 minutes long movie that requires no brainpower. Thus it’s recommendable for all those seeking to relax after an extensive week of testing. However, audiences seeking for an innovative film should avoid The New Guy.

Weezer comes out strong with Maladroit

by Katie Stanton Copy Editor

The music is wonderful, wellplayed and completely without alteration by a synthesizer or computer.

Probably best known for their version of “Buddy Holly,” Weezer seemed almost obsolete in the public eye until the release of their popular album The Green Album, a collection of songs that rocketed them to success. Now the wellknown alternative band has dropped a brand new addition to their discography: Maladroit, a leisurely-paced compilation that’s sure to keep bringing them the same success, with strong music MOVIE RATING and lyrics WEEZER that could mean, well, anything.

Weezer Strong vocals, but came nothing that will together in really make an impact.

1992, founded by Rivers Cuomo, Jason Cropper, Matt Sharp and Pat Wilson. After a year and a half of struggling, they were finally signed by DGC Records and went to New York to record their first album, losing Cropper in the process. They signed on Brian Bell to replace him, and released Weezer in 1994, which went double platinum.

Weezer released Pinkerton in 1996, which went gold, and lost their bassist

A-

(Sharp) soon after, who was replaced by Mikey Welsh. Confused yet?

Fast forward to 2000: After band members became settled and their success was ensured, Weezer played unannounced shows under secret names until they finally booked dates for Warped Tour 2000; tickets sold out, their fan base was growing again, and Weezer finally produced The Green Album, simultaneously releasing the popular songs “Hash Pipe” and “Island in the Sun.” Maladroit is Weezer’s fourth release and will no doubt be appreciated by the band’s fans. Filled with punk guitar riffs and philosophical lyrics, it flows from one song to the next with barely a noticeable break in between. The music is wonderful, well-played and completely without alteration by a synthesizer or computer. Yet Weezer uses a tactic often employed by artists for their poetic lyrics: making them vague enough for anyone to listen to and apply to their own lives.

Their first single is “Dope Nose,” a fun song with upbeat drumming and a punk sound. In fact, most of their songs have the same upbeat drumming and sound from track 2 and on, giving Maladroit a sound reminiscent of punk bands like Greenday and Fenix TX. Luckily, their first track, “American Gigolo,” sounds a bit different. It uses heavier riffs and drums, which comple-

ment Cuomo’s monotone vocals to make the song unlike others heard on the radio.

Since every album has a slow song, Weezer’s first contribution is track 5: “Death and Destruction.” The beat is heavy, and trudges to sad vocals backed by intense guitar (for a punk band).

Lyrics like “I can’t say/that you love me/so I cry/and I’m hurting” give the listener two and a half minutes to shed their tears and wonder where the inspiration for such a song came from.

The next track makes you get back up and grab a tissue to wipe your tears, as it explores the frustrations of parental criticism. “Slob,” Weezer’s front cover from their latest album, Maladroit. possibly the bluntest song out of all 13, vents Cuomo’s anger at constantly being asked to “get a job powerful song with deep lyrics, and and find a wife;” lyrics which don’t “Possibilities,” a fast-paced song evoking match the music at all. The powerful feelings of eager and nervous love. riffs make the listener think the song is Maladroit closes on an introspective about something much more emotive note about a lost relationship, finishing than it actually is, a skill Weezer uses to a well-put together assemblage of music make an impact (and they usually that makes you think. After all, this is succeed). what gives Weezer the amount of Track 7 brings us back to Weezer’s success they enjoy; Cuomo’s lyrics could relaxed and upbeat style, which lasts mean anything you want it to. However, through the rest of the album, with the it still leaves this listener wondering: exceptions of “Slave,” a surprisingly just what, exactly, was he trying to say?

entertainment

Star Wars Episode II is a must-see

by Mike Mahn Entertainment Editor

If you absolutely hate anything remotely related to Star Wars, then you probably won’t like Star Wars Episode II: Attack of the Clones very much. Everyone who does not fall into that category will love the new chapter in the infamous Star Wars series.

Episode II, a testament to the potential ability of meshing human actors with computer graphics, may not be quite as fantastic as you remember the original Star Wars to be, but it holds its own as a worthy chapter in this galaxy far, far away.

The action sequences depict the best special effects ever seen in a movie, and completely make up for any flaws this movie may have. Though the beginning gets tied down in a political plotline that gets the series from episode 1 to 2 to 3, the stunning jedi sequences will dazzle your eyes.

Episode II begins with a severe threat to the Republic. A separist movement has developed in the universe and a possible war may breakout.

Anakin Skywalker (Hayden Christensen), soon to be known as the dark Darth Vadar, has grown up in the ten years that have passed. His old crush, Padme Amidala (Natalie Portman), has become a senator (and surprisingly not changed at all). Obi-wan (Ewan McGregor) is becoming a powerful jedi knight and is still training his apprentice, Anakin. In an effort

Jedi Knight Obi-wan Kenobi is conferring with master jedi Yoda and Mace Windu, of the jedi counsel, about the status of his apprentice Anakin Skywalker.

to reach the capital of the Republic, Senator Amidala is nearly assassinated.

Star Wars For protection the jedi counsel offers the services of Obi-wan and the cocky and rebellious Anakin Skywalker, which reunites the old friends.

While Obi-wan and Anakin are Best Graphics ever, protecting Padme, Anakin attempts to plus never-ending action. The acting is develop his relationship with Senator awkward at points.

Amidala, much to her dismay. Soon, however, Obi-wan gets sent on a new mission to find the culprits behind the attempted assassinations while Anakin protects Padme as they travel back to her home planet Naboo. Anakin swoons Padme, and Obi-wan stumbles upon a planet who is developing a gigantic army comprised completely of clones of a bounty hunter named Jango Fett (Temuera Morrison) some how ordered by the Republic without the Jedi Counsel even knowing.

Anakin, Obi-wan, and Padme fall into deep trouble within the dark side’s secret forces while Chancellor Palpatine (Ian McDiarid) assumes the role as dictator during this emergency.

The comic relief once provided by Jar Jar Binks in Episode 1 is replaced by the funny comments made by a nearly complete C-3PO. And to top that off you only see Jar Jar Binks, thankfully, for about 30 seconds.

All skeptics out there, this movie is not like Episode I: The Phantom Menace, it is leaps and bounds above it. The actors actually work well and the graphics are even better. Director George Lucas addresses most of the flaws of Episode I and improves dramatically in Epsiode II. Also, the love story is not the whole movie. It is a small subplot that is corny but fits well and is very important for the whole series.

Star Wars Episode II: Attack of the Clones contains so many battle scenes between clones, androids, jedi knights, starfighters and a bounty hunter and his son. Oh, and Yoda fights with a light saber. Besides the occasionally bad acting that correspons with humans interacting with a blue screen in stead of other actors, this movie is electrifying. Despite the failure of Episode I, Episode II gives the world confidence in the next chapter of Star Wars. Ultimately, this is a very enjoyable film that is definitely the best of the year and one of the best Star Wars.

MOVIE RATING

A

Master jedi Mace Windu is fighting off an android army with his purple light saber.

New releases on video and DVD: In this scene of Episode II, master jedi Yoda fights the darkside using a light saber for the first time ever seen.

NBC turns 75 years old, 75 years of memories

by Kathy Saupp Staffwriter

On May 5, the National Broadcasting Company celebrated 75 years on the airwaves, with a three hour special featuring outstanding stars, unforgettable memories, and milestones from the past and present. Both nostalgic and amusing, this tribute to a network so extensively dedicated to producing quality entertainment (sometimes successfully, sometimes not) was a veritable crash course through the decades, confirming the network’s place in the history of the entertainment industry.

THE ROARING 20s: NBC’s colorful history began in 1926, with the launch of the first radio network. NBC radio held it’s first coast-to-coast broadcast from the Rose Bowl in January of 1927.

As the 1930s began, so did NBC’s reputation for media coverage, broadcasting from the 1932 Olympic Games in Los Angeles. The formation of NBC News in 1933 led to coverage of momentous events like the Hindenberg crash of 1937. The close of the decade marked the beginning of a new era in entertainment, with the presentation of NBC TV at the 1939 World’s Fair.

SOBER TIMES- The 1940s: As the earliest minute NBC affiliates were laying down the foundation for their network, wartime news was dominating the airwaves. The 40s were a serious time for the nation, and was reflected in the media during the first half of the decade. The death of President Roosevelt in 1945 left the nation distraught, and NBC programming was suspended for a three-day “mourning period.” However, the end of the war brought lighter times to the nation and the media, as the historic program Howdy Doody premiered in 1947. Also premiering the same year was the noteworthy news program Meet the Press, which is today the longest running television program in the world.

GOLDEN AGE OF TELEVISION: In the 1950s, NBC truly stretched its muscle with the institution of coast-to-coast television broadcasts in 1951. The following years marked the birth of two ‘heavyweights’ that are still on the air today. In 1952, Today made its humble beginning on the morning lineup, not reaching full fame until producers hired a trained primate to accrue viewers young and old. The debut of The Tonight Show in 1954, with Steve Allen as the first of many hosts, established NBC as a late night super power. The legendary western Bonanza first appeared on the air in 1959, and would later lasso the number one spot in the ratings.

TURBULENT 60s- Rock Steady NBC: Times were

changing, but NBC thrived at the top of the table in the 1960s.

With NBC news dominating coverage of the election, the nation was riveted to the significant 1960 Nixon-Kennedy debate. In 1962, Johnny Carson began his 30-year run as host of the Tonight Show, which had quickly become one of the nation’s more popular programs. NBC further expanded its boundaries in 1965, adding NBC Sports to its repertoire and broadcasting the Sugar, Rose and Orange Bowls in a football triple-header. 1965 also became the year when NBC would first air all of its programming “in living color.”

IN LIVING COLOR: In the 70s, NBC added a little humor to its lineup. In 1970 The Flip Wilson Show joined the ranks of Red Skelton and Bob Hope’s comedy hours to become the first variety show to be hosted by an African-American comedian. The 70s became an even funnier decade when, in 1975, the original cast of Saturday Night Live performed live for the first time, in a sketch comedy format that would develop a dedicated fan following and launch many successful careers. In 1976, the network celebrated its 50th anniversary with a four-hour special hosted by Orson Welles.

THE CRAZY 80s: Many programs remembered fondly today were first shown on NBC during the 1980s. In 1982 David Letterman came to NBC, and his talk show Late Night with David Letterman further fortified the network’s late night supremacy. That same year, viewers came to know the place “where everyone knows your name;” as the hit comedy series Cheers came on the air. Starring then-youngsters Woody Harrellson, Shelley Long, and Kelsey Grammer, Cheers furthered many careers, and created the main character for today’s hit Frasier. ...NO TIME LIKE THE PRESENT: At the beginning of the 1990s, NBC began to secure the programming that brings it success and accolades today. In 1992, Jay Leno took over Johnny Carson’s job as the host of The Tonight Show. This

appointment caused a somewhat jilted David Letterman to make the move to CBS, thus starting the late night rivalry.

1993 was the first year of “Must See TV;” the still successful Thursday night lineup that originally included Frasier, Seinfeld, and Mad About You. The next year ER and Friends were first televised, and are now “Must See TV” sensations.

Finally, in 2002, NBC celebrated it’s 75 distinguished years in the media with the star studded special, as well as other special programming throughout the following weeks. May 14 at 8pm NBC’s Funniest Outtakes highlighted the moments some stars would like to forget.

This is a screenshot from the new Resident evil game. Here the character is using a flamethrower to ward off zombies and other demonic creatures of the undead persuasion.

The game which started a franchise which started a new genre is back and better than ever in a redesigned version exclusively for the Nintendo Gamecube.

Several months after Capcom announced that its Resident Evil series would see the next six incarnations on Nintendo systems only, the first has been released. A remake of the original game that started it all, Capcom claims that it is 70% new, with fully redone visuals, new secrets, and a redesigned mansion.

The game is rated M for Mature because of violence and language. Blood and extremely graphic scenes are the main cause. Capcom included a special warning when the game boots up that says how gore-filled it is. This could pose a problem to minors after the recently passed law against the sale of mature games The only drawbacks in this game are the high learning curve and extreme difficulty. The game can be beaten in around two hours, but this is only after memorization and several times through the game.

The zombies are a lot harder in this game than those in RE:Code Veronica, the most recent game in the series, and can come back from the dead. This means that you will have to repeat the same area over and over again until you can get through it unscathed.

Other than that there is nothing that should deter any person from this frightfest of fun.

This game is scary. Frightening even. The zombies come to life through the eerie sounds and ultra-realistic graphics.

The sounds are simply amazing. There are tons of different

HOW HIGH Starring: Method Man, Redman Director: Jesse Dylan A marijuana comedy about two stoners who smoke smart weed and get accepted to Harvard. A must-see for Cheech and Chong fans.

VANILLA SKY Starring: Tom Cruise, Penelope Cruz Director: Cameron Crowe A trippy and twisty semiromantic drama about a man who gets in a car accident and his life changes tremendously. It received mixed reviews.

MAY 28

The cast of the most famous sitcom of the 1990s, Seinfeld. Since Seinfeld each main character, with the exception of Jerry Seinfeld, has had a failed sitcom.

Sadistic and terribly great fun are in the new Resident Evil

by Philippe Podhorecki News Editor

THIS WEEK

sounds for just walking. The different types of surfaces you walk on all sound GAME RATING Resident Evil unique. Grass, hardwood floor, water, blood, and goo all sound different, and surprisingly they sound the way you’d imagine. The screams, shrills, and droning sounds all add to the atmoSuperb graphics sphere. along with steep difficulty plus lots of The graphic redesign is utterly fun. astounding. The character models, zombie models, item models are all beautiful— draw-dropping images. The backgrounds look amazing as well, but they are all pre-rendered. However, Capcom made the backgrounds fully interactive, and capable of reflecting light and shadows.

The cinema scenes in the game are great, similar to the game. But, the movies pause everytime the camera angle changes. It is noticeable, but does not do enough to detract from the overall package.

These scenes develop the story, which is actually quite intriguing and mysterious. Clues are dispersed throughout the game as you try to escape from the mansion with your life, and the life of your partners.

The game, as all other Resident Evils, allows you to choose between two different characters with slightly different stories and options.

As reward for beating the game, new costumes, new modes and various other options are unlocked depending upon difficulty and the time it takes to beat it.

The game is a great option for those who did not get a chance to play the original on the Playstation, but who like the series.

HARRY POTTER AND THE SORCERER’S STONE Starring: Daniel Radcliffe, Robbie Coltrane Director: Chris Columbus Based off the popular children’s books series, Harry Potter is about a very young wizard and his archnemesis who killed his parents. Very fantastical but not fantastic.

A-

aBlast

the

Wednesday, May 21, 2002

19

20 20 things for a

the

Blast

Tuesday, May 21, 2002

UPCOMING CONCERTS

• • • •

VANILLA ICE May 30 Jaxx $20 info available at www.jaxxroxx.com

• • • •

N.E.R.D. May 31 9:30 club $15 info available at www.930.com

Twenty activities to do this weekend without breaking the bank.

Some activities include horseback riding and swing dancing

1. See a show at 930 Club. Tickets shop with caution. Don’t just stay on the average $20. Located at 815 V. Street, main streets; some of the most unique Northwest, Washington, D.C., it shops are on the side streets. provides reasonably priced entertain7. Visit Paint Your Own Pottery ment for all ages. Visit www.930.com for in Fairfax. Depending on what kind of more information about the artists project you choose to do the prices vary. playing and to You can also split the cost purchase tickets.

Friedman’s Finds with a friend. It’s fun to let 2. Go ice-skating your creative side loose and at Fairfax Ice Arena. see what comes out of it.

Located at 3779 Pickett 8. Visit any of the many Rd. in Fairfax, it costs museums in the Washing$5.75 to skate on ton D.C. area. One weekdays and $6.25 on reccomendation is the Air and weekends. Rental skates Space Museum. It is an are available for an interesting and exciting place additional fee. Call 703to go. You can also purchase 323-1131 for open skate the same freeze-dried food Caroline Friedman times. that the astronauts eat.

Weekend Editor 3. Go cosmic bowling Admission is FREE, but you at Bowl America in have to pay to get into some of Burke. Cosmic bowling is held from the shows. This applies to most other 10p.m.-2a.m. on Fridays and Saturdays. museums in D.C. Cost is $4.25 per game per person and 9. Go see the Washington Freeyou can rent shoes for $2.75. Strobe dom or D.C. United play at RFK lights and fog machines along with Stadium. Tickets are between $12 and disco music transform the otherwise $19. plain bowling alley into a hot spot for 10. Have fun in the sun and high school students. Call 703-425-9303 water at Cameron Run or Splashfor more information. down Water Parks. Cameron Run, 4. Take a walk on the Mall in located in Alexandria, offers a wave pool, D.C. Gather a bunch of friends for a day water slides, mini golf and batting cages. in the sun. Bring games, CDs, magaTickets are $5.25 or $6.25, depending on zines and a picnic lunch. If you don’t height. Splashdown, located in have to pay a metro fee then it’s FREE. Manassas, features five water areas, a 5. Go visit the National Zoo. lazy river, volleyball and tennis courts.

Among all the amazing and exotic Tickets are either $9.25 or $12.25 for animals, there is a new baby gorilla! unlimited use of all features.

Admission is FREE. 11. Become a tourist in D.C. You 6. Visit Georgetown. The metro can take a bus tour with D.C. takes you about a mile from all the Tourmobile. This bus lets you get off and stores and it costs under $3 one way. on wherever you wish and you pay $16 You can keep the spending to a minifor an all day pass. Another option is to mum if you choose places to eat and go biking, rollerblading or skateboarding

around D.C. Visit all of the monuments, see the cherry blossoms and stop off at other attractions whenever you feel like it. To find the company and rates best suited for your needs visit www.bikewashington.org.

12. Go to Wolf Trap and see a concert or a play. Wolf Trap has outdoor picnic facilities. Lawn seats and seats under the wooden structure are available. Watch a concert, comedy act or play and feel the breeze blow through the theater. Visit www.wolftrap.org for a schedule and prices.

13. Go see the AHS Annual Film Festival on June 3. Tickets are $3 for admission and $5 to receive a copy of all the films in addition to your ticket.

Fourteen short films compiled by the Film Studies class are featured.

14. Play laser tag at Ultrazone.

Ultrazone costs $11 per person on Friday nights. Call 703-578-6000 for specific times. Ultrazone has multiple floors and more intricate rules. It also has many targets and a complex construction.

15. Visit the rustic Theodore Roosevelt Island. Hiking and biking trails are available as well as guided nature walks on Saturday and Sunday mornings. Visit the marsh area and see nature at its finest with cottontails and ferns. Theodore Roosevelt Island offers a relaxing getaway on the weekends.

Admission to the island is FREE. For information call 703-285-2600.

16. Go horseback riding. One hour trail rides are offered at Harper’s Ferry

by Elk Mountain Trails. Cost is $19.50 for one hour. While on the trail you will

Get ready for the 2002 HFStival that have pockets that can be shut securely so your valuables won’t be lost or stolen while you’re having fun. Moreover, avoid taking a purse; you’ll want your hands free and you don’t want your bag getting taken. There are certain rules to what you can bring in the stadium as well: no backpacks, blankets, coolers, glass, or containers of any kind.

by Katie Stanton Copy Editor

• • • •

BLINK 182 W/ GREEN DAY June 5 MCI Center $40 info available at www.mcicenter.com

LOCAL THEATER A Moon for the Misbegotten • Arena Stage • For tickets or information call 202-488-3300 Peter and the Wolf • Theater J • Playing May 19-July 14 • Call 1-800-494-TIXS

So you’ve just heard about HFStival, and you can’t stop thinking about it. Your friends are talking about it, it’s all over the radio, and your parents are (finally) letting you go. Just think: thousands of people, games, events and great music, all crammed together into RFK stadium for two days. One problem: you’ve never been to a concert of this magnitude before.

If you’re totally unprepared for the experience, the following is some essential advice for HFStival newcomers, everything you need to know to have a great (and safe) time.

How to get there Taking the Metro is probably your best bet, unless you want to try to find and pay for parking. It’s inexpensive and a stop is right next to the Stadium, at the DC-Armory. Bring plenty of friends with you if you plan on riding home late at night; you’ll be more comfortable if people are with you.

What to wear

Into the Woods • St. Mark’s Episcopal Church • For tickets call 202-5469670

The best idea would be to wear comfortable clothes you can move easily in and not worry about, and shoes that will stay on your feet, since you’ll be distracted with everything that’s going on. Wear clothes you don’t care too much about, either, since it’s not exactly hospital-clean. Also, as stupid as it might sound, it’s in your best interest to wear sunscreen that won’t rub off; you’re going to be running around in the sun and heat all day long, and unless you like the burnt-look, you don’t want to regret your time by dealing with painful sunburn.

Othello • Folger Theatre • Playing through June 16 • For tickets call 202-5447077

For something like this, you don’t need much. Recommended essentials are your wallet with enough money for water and food (it adds up fast), and a cell phone. Wear pants

Gigi • Vienna Thetre Company • Tickets, $9 for adults, $8 for students • For information call 703242-6423

What to bring

weekend

Mamma Mia! • Playing at the National Theatre • For tickets call 1-800-4477400

While the bands play

HFStival Set List The Strokes Papa Roach Eminem AAF Hoobastank Our Lady Peace X-ecutioners Paul Oakenfold Good Charlotte P.O.D. Quarashi Black Rebel Motorcycle Club Abandon Pools Loudermilk Val Yumm Sum 41 Trik Tuner Sev Unwritten Law The Lloyd Doblar Effect Dash Goldfiner GOB N.E.R.D. Citizen Cope NFG The Vines Phantom Planet

As everyone knows, there are certain things to watch out for during any rock show. They have a reputation for getting violent, and can seem scary to a newcomer. If you just remember some common sense, however, they can be a great experience. Primarily, a large amount of people crammed into one space can create a lot of heat and pressure from all sides, so stay well hydrated and stick with your friends.

If you’re female and/or small, be especially careful in the crowds, because sometimes people can get a little crazy and you’re vulnerable if they’re bigger than you. Don’t go near a mosh pit if you’re afraid of it. Don’t try to duck under people or sit by peoples’ feet. Watch out for crowdsurfers as well, if you’re up near the stage; when you see one approaching, just put up your hands and help to pass them along, out of courtesy for them (falling from six feet up onto hard concrete isn’t fun) and to avoid getting kicked. If you go with the flow of the crowd and avoid situations you know are hazardous, you’ll be perfectly fine; accidents happen the most when people don’t use their head.

There are plenty of horror stories regarding rock concerts and people getting hurt, but these people have usually made reckless decisions and put themselves in dangerous positions. If you’re nervous about being in a big crowd, don’t go in. Be responsible and use common sense, and you’ll be perfectly safe, even in the midst of thousands of screaming fans.

Despite these warnings, don’t be worried; HFStival is an experience unlike any other, and since it’s conveniently in the DC-Metro area, should be taken advantage of. Great bands, fun events and thousands of people to share it with. Who could ask for anything more?

For information and tickets visit www.whfs.com or www.ticketmaster.com

ernhardt’s Bites

B

The best part of the deli is the huge Deli sandwiches variety of different John Bernhardt made fresh are now sandwiches, pita, subs, salads and available in Weekend Editor burgers. Well named Annandale thanks entrees adorn the to the new Smith menu, such as the and Clarkson’s Deli. With all the fast “Big Stuart” ($7.95), food restaurants located in Annandale, it’s nice to have a small, privately owned which entails a triple- decker business trying to provide good, quality sandwich loaded meals. with pastrami, With its recent opening, Smith and corned beef, turkey, Clarkson’s Deli has already become a Swiss cheese, cole major hit. A short drive will take you to the deli located in Ravenworth Shopping slaw and Russian dressing on rye Center off Braddock Road. bread. Assorted When you enter the chicken pitas, RESTAURANT deli, a large chalkboard and the classic RATING hangs behind the SMITH AND burgers are counter and tells of the CLARKSON’S DELI available for JOHN BERNHARDT many different $5.95 to $6.50.

A customer gives his order to the cashier at Smith and Clarkson’s Deli. beverage selections.

Breakfast and lunch are served all day long.

Vegetarian Once you decide what options such as you want, and order, An original restaurant portabello with great food, and a they give you a receipt pancakes and combination meals are offered. relaxed atmosphere mushroom, avocado pita and a with a number. During The flexibility of Smith and Clarkson’s Deli garden burger are available. this brief time when makes it a good choice for a meal during Besides having a wide selection of the employees are preparing your meal, anytime throughout the day. Carry-out and different lunches, breakfast is also you can get a fountain drink and find catering are also available. Smith and served all day long.

Omelettes, French your seat. After they call your number, Clarkson’s is an new age deli with old-fashioned toast, Belgium waffles, bagels, eggs, you go to the counter to get your meal. quality.

A

pass through m a n y coveted landmarks such as the Blue Ridge Mountains and alongside the Potomac and Shenandoah Rivers. Call 301-9868483 for more information.

17. Drive around the track at Alexandria Go Kart. Get your summer speed thrills for only $2 per lap for a single seat car and $2.50 per lap for a double seat car. Purchasing multiple laps will give you a discount overall. Call 703-548-5100 for summer hours and any additional information.

18. Visit the town of Occoquan.

The streets are lined with artsy shops and the town is beside the Occoquan River. I recommend the Country Kitchen for a reasonable but delicious lunch, followed by one of their homemade desserts.

19. Travel to the past and go swing dancing at Glen Echo. Lessons are given for about an hour to teach you the basic moves. A band then plays live music so you can show off what you’ve learned. Admission is $10. Call 301-4926282 for more information and to find out what other types of lessons are being taught.

20. Go to the library. Pick out a book. Check it out. Read it. It’s FREE!

a

tomic reactions

What are your plans for work and relaxation this summer?

“I’m going be a lifeguard at my pool and I’m going to Montana.”

—Spencer Wise freshman

“I’m going to the beach for a week, and I am coaching swimming, and I am going to New Hampshire.”

—Maryanna O’Neill sophomore

“I’m going to go to Florida, football camp, practice, and summer school.”

—Michael Scott junior

—Lindsay Quigley senior

“I am going to Atlanta, Georgia for AVID training with Mr. Hearn, Ms. Matanmala and Mrs. Hall.”

“Working, hanging out with friends, partying and preparing for college.”

—Debbie Estes Spanish and AVID Teacher