Issue1

4

News

features the Class of 2016’s orientation and impressions of AHS

8

focuses on how students find their identity at AHS

provides tips for going back to school do’s and don’ts

Arts

Lifestyles

In-Depth

profiles the AHS marching band season and new band teacher’s journey to AHS

12

Weekend

shows the many activities available to students at Burke Lake

B last A Annandale High School

the VOLUME #59 ISSUE 1

9

6-7

4700 Medford Dr. Annandale, VA 22003

Informing the Atoms since 1954

WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 5, 2012

www.thea-blast.org

(703) 642-4229

Technology now allowed Cell phones, iPads, and laptops may be used during class activities

11 19 57 606

The number of saxophone players in marching band.

See page 9 The number of goals the varsity field hockey team has scored.

See page 10 The number of languages spoken at AHS. See pages 6-7 The number of incoming freshmen in the class of 2016.

See page 4

Underclassmen pictures

Yearbook photos for underclassmen will take place on September 6 and 7 in the auditorium. English teachers will be distributing information to students during the first week of class.

Senior portraits schedule All seniors have scheduled appointments for their senior portrait. See the full list of schedules outside of the publications lab at the end of the upstairs English hallway.

The Class of 2013 prepares for another year On your smartphone, scan this code using the application “QR Code” to read about the Class of 2013’s upcoming plans for the year.

Students will be allowed to text in the hallways between classes, but no student will be allowed to talk on their phone at any time.

“Technology” continues on page 3

Students debate AHS welcomes new faculty stricter gun laws 23 new staff members to join community

By Gwen Levey Co-Editor in Chief “Are we against guns or control?”

This is the question sophomore Steve Aderton asked himself as he watched the news the afternoon of Aug. 27 where an image of the newest shooting at a Baltimore public school blared across the screen; one student shot by another on the first day of classes. Aderton hadn’t been the only member of the AHS community who has had to find himself exposed to this question over the past year, for the several mass shootings that have caught the media and country’s attention in this short time frame have not easily gone unnoticed.

The controversy began when 24-year-old James Holmes opened fire on a movie theater at the premiere of the blockbuster, The Dark Knight Rises, in Aurora, Colorado late July, killing 12 people and injuring 58 others. The media’s attention could not be turned for the couple of weeks following Holmes’ attack, for the tragedy became the worst mass shooting in the country’s history. Several prominent members of the media world, such as journalist Piers Morgan, began stressing the fact that the machine guns and heavy amount of ammunition Holmes used were bought legally online, creating a slue of debates about whether American guns and weapons should have tighter restrictions or not.

Closer to home at AHS, the number of weapons offensives has declined from the years 2008-2011 from eight weapons violations to only two. With the results of the nationwide shootings and AHS statistics reported for public knowledge, students and parents have weighed in on their own opinions regarding gun and weapon restrictions.

“I think people should be allowed to own guns, but the government needs to do a proper background check [on people buying guns] and look at their residence

By Colleen Adenan Co-Editor in Chief Before the first day of school, the sight of confused figures trying to find classrooms and learn new names is already apparent once again.

The 2012-2013 school year brings 14 new faculty members to the AHS staff. Although they come from different backgrounds, they all note the welcoming sense of community from the other staff members.

“My first impression of AHS was that it was very red,” orchestra director Angela Ammerman said. “But in terms of the community, everyone has been very kind and friendly. Ms. Harmony has come down twice to introduce me to a few teachers, and Mr. Kerns also stopped by to introduce me to people.” Ammerman is a military spouse from Cincinnati, Ohio that has lived in Virginia and North Carolina before settling down in Annandale.

English teacher Megan Jarrell is no stranger to the FCPS system. She went to Lake Braddock HS and played field hockey for Davidson College.

Jarrell now coaches varsity field hockey at Woodson HS. “Since I went to Lake Braddock, I knew good things about AHS before I came here,” Jarrell said. “But I was surprised that there was so much school spirit. I also really love that AHS has a big community and isn’t just where students have to come to school. Everyone is really friendly and fun, sometimes I feel like I’m on the set of Grease.”

Business teacher Matthew Behne also came to AHS with experience in the FCPS structure. Behne was a marketing teacher at Fairfax HS before being hired as the new basketball coach.

“Gun laws” continues on page 3

COLLEEN ADENAN

5.25

The number of miles of shoreline at Burke Lake.

See page 12

You’re sitting in your favorite class when something the teacher says catches you off guard. Surely, there has to be some mistake, right? There’s no way that he meant that the Civil War was fought in 1776. You reach for your smartphone to double check the date when all of a sudden it’s swiped from your hands. Your teacher has caught you red handed and immediately your phone will be sent to the front office for your parents to pick up in its little zip-lock baggie.

With AHS’s new policy about the use of technology in the classroom, however, using a social gadget during school may no longer be prohibited.

The new policy implies a change in the rules with how technology is viewed in school. No longer will students be reprimanded for using their phones, iPads, and computers at lunch, in the hallways, and also­, at their teacher’s discretion, in classroom activities. However, students will only be allowed to use these technological gadgets for educational

New business teacher Matthew Behne comes from Fairfax High School and finds AHS to be friendly and welcoming.

“[The welcoming] has been amazing,” Behne said. “Mr. Randazzo and Mr. Kerns have been helpful and visible, they are always asking if you have any questions or need anything. Other teachers have also helped me find my way around the school because this building is very confusing.”

During the weeks before school starts, teachers spend a lot of time in meetings and workshops where they learn about things such as grading, internet programs, Atom Time and W4.

“All of the orientation and lunches that the school has been providing for us have helped me feel welcome, as well as the fact that they are very approachable,” math teacher Casey Thompson said. “The staff here has been very welcoming and friendly; everyone here is always smiling.”

“New Faculty” continues on page 3

Business class now required to graduate The classes of 2015 and 2016 add new class to schedules

By Dana Filipczyk News Editor Students in the Class of 2015 and 2016 are now required to take the course Economics and Personal Finance in order to graduate.

“I think that it is really important that students take this class,” Economics and Personal Finance teacher Helen Silberminz said. “Yes students will have less room for other electives, but they will learn that they need to start saving their money now, so they will encounter less problems within the future.”

Out of the 22 credits that are required for the standard diploma, this is the first year Economics

GWEN LEVEY

By the numbers

PHOTO ILLUSTRATION BY SARAH BERGEN

By Gwen Levey Co-Editor in Chief

Guidance counselor Carrie Schaefer instructs an incoming freshman student about class scheduling and school policies.

and Personal Finance is now one of those mandatory credits. Now, students have the option of taking the course in school or through the FCPS online campus.

“I taught finance before, and so now for this year the economics aspect is being incorporated into

the class, so it has become a smooth transition for accommodating this mandatory class,” Economics and Personal Finance teacher Monica Bentley said.

“I did have to stop teaching other classes to be able to teach this class, but that happens every year, where you stop teaching some classes and start teaching others,” Silberminz said.

Freshmen and sophomores must now be able to incorporate Economics and Personal Finance into their schedule before they graduate.

“It is going to be difficult for me to take this class,” freshman Maddy Coelho said. “I love all my electives and I just don’t want to give them up.”

The purpose of this class is to teach students how the economy functions and about how to utilize their own human capital in order to become active citizens within the economy.

“I believe this class became mandatory because of the economic crisis this country is currently experiencing,” Bentley said. “Students are going to know how to manage their finances and budget wisely, so they will be prepared for the future when they are off on their own.”

Trending Topics The U.S.A. takes control of the London 2012 Summer Olympics, winning the gold medal and total medal counts.

Redskins have a positive pre-season as Robert Griffin III gives hope of a successful season.

Republican candidate, Mitt Romney, has officially picked Paul Ryan as his running mate for the 2012 Presidential Election.

Todd Akin’s, currently running for the senator of Missouri, comment towards the idea that rape can not get a woman pregnant causes a large controversy and uproar in the media.

Sept. 5, 2012

Dear freshmen, here’s the deal. . .

Senior reflects on freshman year in order to shed light to upcoming 9th graders

DOs and DON’Ts as a freshman 1. DON’T walk up the wrong staircase during class changes

By Gwen Levey Co-Editor in Chief When I auditioned for American Idol a little over three years ago, I had just come out of freshman year. I was confident that now was the time to make something of myself and I could do anything I set my mind to.

Basically, I had it in my mind that if I didn’t do what I wanted then, I never would be able to accomplish my dreams.

The truth was, though, that I had no idea what I wanted. I thought coming to high school would change everything: something new and dramatic would happen everyday, people would gravitate towards me automatically, and my life would finally start. I thought I had already found who I was after three years as an awkward middle-schooler, what with my knee high socks, baggy skirts, and Ugg boots. I thought I was ready to conquer the world and high school was just a place where I’d be for the time being.

Looking back now, sometimes I don’t know what I was thinking. I was fifteen and I was so young, so how could I begin to think that I was ready to take on the world? You know what I needed? I needed four years of a great education at a great school to get me through.

Of course, growing up with a High School Musical-influenced state of mind didn’t quite help my situation: the next four years wouldn’t be a plain-as-day, black and white story where everyone would be divided into certain cliques: jocks and brains, goths and preps.

That’s why when I look back, I think I needed AHS more than I would have ever expected. The diversity of my peers, the mixture

2. DO get to lunch early, or you will spend the whole time in line 3. DON’T ask about the pool or third floor, ever 4. DO take your tests, especially finals, seriously 5. DON’T block the hallways with your group of friends. Wait. . . you have no friends 6. DO participate in clubs, sports and extracurricular activities 7. DON’T skip Collaboration Day 8. DO take your freshman year seriously, your grades will affect you in the future DESTINY GAMMON

2

Editorials

9. DON’T expect flash mobs or slushies, this isn’t High School Musical or Glee of experiences and interests we’d all have, and the encouragement and support of my teachers would all teach me that there is no such thing as being one thing or another. Because of my high school experiences, I’d find that I didn’t just have to be a singer and there was no one-way ticket to be successful in life. No one has it all figured out when they’re fifteen, as much as I wanted to believe it then.

I’d find that when I tried new things, such as the high school paper or when I finally got the courage to try out for my first high school play my junior year, my dreams changed.

I didn’t want just one thing, because I was able to find that I was never interested or good at just one thing.

High school was helping me become a more well-rounded student, but

even more, it was helping me become a more well-rounded human being.

So I don’t want to sit here and tell you the usual advice: work hard, don’t be lazy or procrastinate, and focus all of your four years on making your family proud and getting into a good university. I want to tell you that high school is so much more than that: it’s not this black and white experience as I thought it would be: it’s a melting pot of opportunities that let you delve into who you are before you move on with your life and really figure out who you are.

I didn’t make it through during American Idol - the opportunity I saw as my last hope to “get out of high school, hit the road, and make a name for myself.” If I had made it through and hadn’t been able to

fulfill my high school experience and discover all of my potential, I don’t think I’d be who I am today. There’s no shame in failure and everyone will do their share of it in high school, but it’s how you learn from those disappointments that shape who you’ll become.

So take advantage of the opportunities every single student gets to have here at AHS. Everyone can be successful, but as everyone knows, nothing in life ever comes easily unless you’re graced with a stroke of good luck.

You have been graced with one, though: being able to walk through the doors of Annandale and call yourself an atom for the next four years. Allow yourself to make it count.

Republicans, you’re ‘Akin’ me crazy A surprise storm left 450,000 citizens in the Northern Virginia area in the dark.

Many did not receive power until almost a week after the outage.

Comments by Missouri senatorial candidate Todd Akin has sparked outrage

The past summer has revealed an increase in mass shootings across the U.S.A., sparking a heavy gun control debate.

QUOTE COLLECTION

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

What is your opinion on Todd Akin’s comments defining “legitimate rape”?

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

“It seems to be, first of all, from what I understand from doctors, it’s really rare. If it’s a legitimate rape, the female body has ways to try to shut the whole thing down.”

Really? You’ve got to be kidding. When I heard Republican Todd Akin’s ridiculous comment about such a sensitive topic, my jaw dropped. The fact that anybody could believe that a woman can prevent pregnancy during rape is absolutely absurd.

According to Akin, a woman can prevent pregnancy if the rape that occurred is legitimate.

“Supposedly,” the female body knows how to shut female reproductive organs down because the woman did not consent to the sexual activity.

This theory was quick to draw anger and sharp criticism from Americans and female activist groups.

Shortly after his comments, the Republican party was quick to separate themselves from the Missouri senatorial candidate and he received numerous requests from party leaders for his resignation.

However Presidential candidate, Mitt Romney, was careful not to draw any criticism toward himself and his party due to their platform on women’s health care.

Romney released a statement saying that the “Congressman’s Akin’s comments on rape are insulting, inexcusable and, frankly, wrong. . . Like millions of other Americans, we found them to be offensive.”

COURTESY OF CSMONITOR.COM

By Destiny Gammon and Omnia Saed Editorials Editors

The entire Republican campaign strategy so far has been to simply fire criticism towards Obama and focus solely on the struggling economy.

Yet, despite their denunciation against Akin, the Romney/Ryan campaign has voiced their opinions numerous times when it comes to ideas inapplicable to their own lifestyles.

Numerous times both Romney and Ryan have voted to get rid of planned parenthood from health care packages.

However what many fail to know is that Paul Ryan himself co-signed a bill with Todd Akin trying define the physical act of rape.

In Akin’s defense, this preposterous theory is defended in books such as Fleta and Elements of Medical Jurisprudence. In Fleta, a 1290 British text, it is written that “If, however, the woman should have conceived at the alleged time in the appeal, it abates, for without a woman’s consent she could not conceive.”

Similarly, in Elements of Medical Jurisprudence

by Samuel Farr, he writes “For without an excitation of lust, or the enjoyment of pleasure in the venereal act, no conception can probably take place. SO that if an absolute rape were to be perpetrated, it is not likely that she would become pregnant.”

Ok, so it seems that Akin has some “facts” that he used before making his comment. But, any knowledgeable human being, who has taken Human Anatomy for that matter, would understand that even if you aren’t enjoying the sexual activity that is occurring, you could still get pregnant.

Not only was Todd Akin’s comment highly uneducated, but it was also inconsiderate of women who have been brutally raped and, or, abused.

With a legislature in which 90 percent of lawmakers are male, it seems to be ironic that they can voice and vote on opinions and laws they have no personal connection nor experience with.

The same could be said of both parties when it comes to topics dealing with unemployment and poverty.

According to Politcio, 44 percent of Congress members are millionaires. That means almost half of our lawmakers make up the infamous 1 percent in our economy.

With so much publicity and media attention these role models should fact-check and truly understand the words and views they portray.

America is truly a melting pot filled with different backgrounds, and socioeconomic upbringings and our lawmakers and political leaders should reflect and try to understand each view that may created per each issue.

Akin’s comments will hopefully allow him and all political leaders in general to sincerely think about the power of their words and the diversity of people they were chosen to represent.

Staff Mass shooting pandemic In your smartphone, scan the QR code to read a story about the nations recent rise in gun massacres.

The Frank Ocean debate In your smartphone, scan the QR code to read a story about a high school student reflecting on Frank Ocean’s sexuality.

Annandale High School 4700 Medford Dr.

Annandale, Virginia 22003 email: theablast@gmail.com

Vol. 58 No.1 Sept5, 2012 fax: (703) 642-4299

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

Published every three weeks, The A-Blast will not print any material that is obscene or libelous; or that which substantially disrupts the school day, or invades an individual’s right to privacy. The A-Blast is an independent, open forum for discussion that is printed at the Springfield Plant of The Washington Post. Signed letters to the editor of 250 words or less may be submitted to room 262 or mailed to the school. The A-Blast reserves the right to refuse advertisements. All submissions become property of The A-Blast, Copyright, 2012.

News

A Blast

the

September 5, 2012

Debate on guns heightens Weapon offense numbers have declined in AHS community recently

“Gun laws” continued from page 1

PICTURE FROM WWW.TELEGRAPH.CO.UK

because it’s honestly so easy to get a gun,” senior Dili Aklilu said. “Look what happened this summer: the Colorado shooting, the Empire State Building shooting, and there are just too many [others] to name.”

The problem that many people see is the fact that when someone goes to buy a gun, the gun seller runs a criminal background check, but not a mental health check on the consumer. With the many shooters who have been involved in these shootings having had previous mental health problems, advocates for tighter gun restrictions have demanded change.

“There should definitely be serious restrictions on guns in America to prevent accidents and those who feel like owning guns should be educated about the risks and the James Holmes sent the nation into shock in July when he unleashed a shooting massacre in a Colorado movie theater laws concerning gun possession as to clear any confusion in the future,” senior Beatrice Ohene- this summer.

Okae said. viewpoints on shootings, he agrees that making Others in the community disagree, believing the murders headline news across the country that the problem isn’t the availability of guns does nothing to help controlling these shootings. and weapons in this country, but the causes of “Statistics show that if there’s heavy media these shootings. coverage of a murder, there’s an expected one or “I believe the real problems with these two more within a few weeks, as has been clearly shootings that have been happening recently observable this past year. Alerting the affected aren’t necessarily the fact that guns are community, and making the news story as boring available, and I fully support our Second as possible is the safest, and [is the] most mature Amendment,” Aderton said. “The issue that most way of looking at the situation,” Aderton said. people fail to see is that the media uses these Senior Mairead Kennedy agrees. “When you shootings as coverage for the next few days of buy a gun you take on the responsibility that their broadcasting.” you should be able to take care of that firearm Aderton would go on to explain that after and use it responsibly, and that doesn’t happen listening to forensic psychologist Dr. Park Dietz all the time. I don’t think that just because

some people don’t know how to do something responsibly, that it should outlaw guns altogether.”

Fairfax County hasn’t been immune to its own amount of school shootings this past year.

On June 22, a school shooting with pellet guns was reported to Fairfax County police. The shooting took place at Rocky Run Middle School where two 16-year-old teens were charged with shooting two other students: a 14-year-old boy and a 13-year-old girl who were immediately sent to Inova Fairfax Hospital. The teens were charged and sent to the Fairfax County Juvenile Detention Center with counts of Class III and VI felonies and could be imprisoned for up to five years.

Nonetheless, many AHS parents also feel that guns, including pellet guns, and other weapons shouldn’t be completely outlawed, but some restrictions must be placed on the availability of the items.

“I completely agree with the Second Amendment to the US Constitution, the right to keep and bear arms. In the event of criminals, I do however agree with limiting their right, and for certain people with mental health issues,” AHS parent Michelle Kennedy said. “Real world experience does not show that gun control reduces crime, it encourages people to get them illegally, and only criminals will have guns.

Gun control limits the citizens right to protect themselves.”

Aderton stayed in front of his television and pondered the debate again, as he came to the same conclusion.

“The Internet has the potential to host pirated content. Does that mean the government should ban the Internet? Guns have the potential to be used as a weapon, but should we ban guns?”

Aderton said. “It’s like if someone wanted to ban usage of all vehicles because of some idiots who crashed while driving under the influence.”

Welcoming new staff members

3

News Briefs Band Tag Day

The Marching Band will participate in Tag Day on Sept. 8. They will be knocking on doors in the AHS community and handing out tax-deductible tags when given donations.

AHS Booster Club Meeting The AHS Booster Club will hold a meeting on Sept. 10 at 7 p.m. in Clausen Hall. Volunteers are needed for several committees. Spiritwear and membership items will be available starting at 6:30 p.m.

Cross Country Meet

Cross Country will participate in the Monroe Parker Invitational at Burke Lake Park on Sept. 8 at 8 a.m.

Parking Permits

Any student that wishes to obtain a parking permit must submit the completed forms that can be found on the AHS website to the main office by 2:30 p.m. on Sept. 7. Money should not be turned in at this time.

Locker Distribution Lockers will not be given out to students until they have turned in the four Back to School forms to their W4 teacher.

2013 Yearbooks Yearbooks for the 2012-2013 school year are now available for sale. They are currrently $65. Gets yours before the price goes up later on in the year.

Senior ads are also for sale.

Class Acts Rehearsal Class Acts will begin rehearsal on Sept. 10 from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. in the auditorum or the Black Box Theater.

Athletic Passes

Student athletic passes can be bought for $45. Without an all-access pass, it will cost $5 for every sports game. They will get students into every home game except for district, regional or state games.

Teachers are prepared for new school year

“New staff” continued from page 1

Q and A with a Fulbright Exchange Teacher Freshman English teacher coming in from Scotland

COLLEEN ADENAN

1. Why did you decide to become involved in the Fulbright Exchange program?

“Two years ago I did a study tour in the U.S. I visited Illinois, Missouri, upstate New York and Virginia.

Specifically, Fairfax County. I saw lots of great things and became excited about the American education system. It was coincidental that I ended up here though, there was a bigger force that guided me here.”

English teacher Marguerite Edwards will replace English teacher Nikki Holmes for the 2012-2013 school year while Holmes teaches in Scotland.

2. What was your first impression of AHS? “I loved the exterior, it reminded me of a 1950’s iconic airport design. When I walked in, I literally felt like it was a good atmosphere. I love the welcoming feeling from the faculty and the red and white colors, the positivity is amazing.”

elementary school is primary school for us. Teachers also teach across all grades instead of teaching specific grade levels, so there is a bigger variety there. We refer to our students as pupils.

But the biggest difference is probably that there is not the same emphasis on grades as there is here.

We focus more on preparing for national exams that students must take in secondary school. At the end of grade 10, students across the country take an exam on the same day on eight different subjects.

Then there is an intermediate exam. The highest exam is the benchmark exam, and students’ entry into the university is based on this exam.”

3. What are some differences between the Scottish and U.S. school systems?

“In Scottish high school, grades 7-12 are considered high school, or actually secondary school. Your

Scan this QR code into your smartphone to read the rest of this interview.

CHRISTINE TAMIR

COLLEEN ADENAN

Great Beginnings is a program set up by FCPS to help new faculty members adjust to the school system with hopes of creating quality teachers that will contribute to student achievement. Teachers are paired with other new faculty members in the county and are also given mentors to give them guidance through starting their first year.

“I was assigned two English teacher coaches, and it was cool because Ms. Mathis was one of them,” Jarrell said. “You are also paired up with all of the other new teachers so you become close.”

New teachers also depend on their fellow Front Row: Casey Thompson, Angela Ammerman, Marcia Bellamy, Meg Jarrell, Jim Phillips and Marguerite Edwards. Back department teachers for help in getting Row: Stacie Shaffer, Suellen Novak Merlo, Adam Hilkert, Matthew Behne, Tim Murphy, Anne Brosnan, Mani Deneke and acquainted with AHS. Kristen Michels.

“Because [band director] Adam Hilkert and I from scratch as a new teacher.”

Behne hopes to become familiar with the IB are new, we’ve been relying on other performing Despite being a coach for another high school, program by the end of the year. arts teachers like Mr. Kee, Mrs. Irish and Mr. Jarrell hopes to become involved at clubs and “I need to adjust to it in order to give Bennett to help us adjust,” Ammerman said. activities at AHS as well. students the ability to succeed,” Behne said. “I “Ms. Graham helped me arrange my room, “I’d be open to being involved with pretty want to be able to build lasting relationships which is way more difficult than it looks, and much anything at AHS, except band or cheer with my students as a mentor.”

Ms. Mathis helped me by giving me supplies because I know pretty much nothing about those and posters,” Jarrell said. “You’re really starting areas,” Jarrell said.

The back of the Class of 2013’s painted C-train.

Senior Spirit Packs

Class of 2013 Senior Spirit Packs are on sale for $40 until Sept. 21. You can pick up a flier from a class officer or Ms. Zivney in room 362A.

Field Hockey Home Game Freshman field hockey will face Washington-Lee HS today at AHS at 5 p.m. Admission is free. JV will face West Potomac HS at 6:15 p.m., and vasity will play West Potomac at 7:30 p.m. Admission is $5.

Underclassmen Picture Day Underclassmen will be taking school pictures in the auditorium during English classes on Sept. 6 and 7. The pictures will be in the yearbook and on the school I.Ds.

Senior Pictures Seniors may sign up to take their pictures beginning on Sept. 7 until Sept 13. Pictures are taken in Clausen Hall , which is open from 7 a.m. until 5 p.m.

Wear Red and White Students: remember to wear red and white on Fridays to show your school spirit!

Cell phone policy becomes flexible Technology can be used in class for educational purposes

“Technology” continued from page 1

purposes and will have to register them with administration before they can be used throughout the school day.

“I think this will help students with keeping track of their technological devices, since administration will be aware of what is registered in case one gets lost or stolen,” administrator Jamie Carayiannis said.

Senior Elizabeth Waugh was keen on using her portable laptop to write down class notes

instead of having to copy them down by hand her junior year with her teacher’s permission.

With the new policy, the way she has used these devices will be further augmented.

“I find it much easier to learn with my laptop and I don’t feel like I am wasting paper by copying down note after note by hand,” Waugh said.

Though many students find this new policy as a relief for tired hands and punishment for using phones and technology during school, many teachers are still on the fence about implicating the policy in their classrooms.

“I could see [using technology in school] helping or hurting [the learning process],” history teacher Joe Valentino said.

Valentino explained that the faculty is not completely sure about what exactly is going on with

the new policy, such as how and where students are going to be able to register their devices.

“We’re still coming to grips and trying to understand what’s all happening,” Valentino said. “It’s a work in progress at this point.

Hopefully we can iron things out really quickly.”

The decision to allow technology during the school day was discussed by administration over different periods throughout the summer. Many of the decision’s factors were taken from other schools policies that already allow technology in school, and most agreed that it was time for AHS to catch up.

“We had to catch up with the culture of our students,” Carayiannis said. “Technology is the direction that this generation is headed.”

For further online content, such as the story listed below, visit: www.thea-blast.org

Q&A with a Fulbright Exchange Teacher To view a further interview with Marguerite Edwards, scan the QR code on your phone.

4

News

Sept. 5, 2012

Common App opens for seniors

Freshman Orientation Pictures

Some seniors use hired coaches for assistance through college application process

GWEN LEVEY

Counselor Katie Raffaelli helped hand out schedules and maps of the school to freshmen.

The varsity cheerleaders and the Marching Atoms performed for the freshmen.

As students start another school year, many seniors are already preparing for their next chapter in life: college.

“The biggest mistake students make when applying to college is that they don’t research the colleges enough,” Career Center specialist Robin Roth said. “Students should start applying now, read the application carefully and do precisely what it asks. Another good idea is to get your activities sheet completed now because we send that out with transcripts.”

When applying to college, seniors face the dilemma of whether or not to apply early decision, early action or regular decision. Early decision is binding, meaning that if a student is accepted, he or she must enroll. A student can only apply early decision to one school. Early action is non-binding, so a student can apply to more than one school under early action. Students that apply early action or early decision often do so because there is fewer competition. As a result, there is a larger chance of being accepted than if a student applied regular decision. Students that apply regular decision often want to raise their grades or test scores before applying.

Senior Hung Truong is applying Early Decision to Cornell University. “They have what I need in terms of my major. I would like to study horticulture and biochemistry. I’m not nervous about the fact that it’s binding because I just really want to go there.”

COLLEEN ADENAN

GWEN LEVEY

By Colleen Adenan Co-Editor in Chief

Senior Christina Uglietta uses resources available in the Career Center to help her with the college application process.

Some students, such as senior Kalie Rosati, choose to hire a college application coach that will provide guidance and help proofread their applications.

“I was overwhelmed by the whole application process and knew that I’d need guidance if I wanted to meet deadlines,” Rosati said. “[The process] is going well, I’ve finished my essays and I’m about halfway done with my applications.” Rosati has not yet decided whether or not to apply anywhere early.

Senior Clark Girardin reached out to a distant relative to help him with writing his college essays.

“I want to get as much of a leg up on colleges as I can,” Girardin said. “I want to help my chances as much as possible.” “[Having a coach] allows me to have another person look at and help me with my writing,” Girardin said. “I think it’s beneficial to have

somebody who works in the writing field and has already gone through the college essay writing process help me.”

Roth encourages students to use the resources available to them instead of hiring a coach.

“In a public school setting, the counselors and career center specialist will do all of this for free,” Roth said. “You can also give your essays to your English teachers to proofread.”

“In all honesty, the application process is pretty confusing so far,” Truong said. “I’m unsure of what to put in my application at some points, but hopefully my counselor will guide me through it.

Applying to college gives me a sense of maturity.

I guess you could say it makes me feel like I’m finally a senior.”

Freshman Orientation kicks off school year Ninth graders spend day at AHS, get acquainted with classmates and classrooms

DANA FILIPCZYK

All cheer teams helped to direct the freshmen to their classes.

At 7:30 in the morning, most students usually enter the school doors weary-eyed and unenthusiastic. This was not the case on Aug. 30 when over 600 freshmen took their first step as Atoms: attending the Class of 2016’s Freshman Orientation.

Freshman William Ellis was one of the many excited and eager freshmen that attended the event. “It was fun because I got to be with my friends and experience a new school and meet my teachers,” Ellis said.

The sea of new students crowded into a nearly packed auditorium where Principal Vincent Randazzo stood at the front of the room, ready to greet the new class: “You are no longer whatever you were in middle school,” Randazzo said. “You are now an Atom.”

The presentation proceeded with an introduction to the many counselors and administrative staff who welcomed the students and congratulated them on attending one of Fairfax County’s most diverse high schools. Counselors Illana Reyes and Lisa Foliaco were thanked for their efforts in organizing the event and making sure each freshman felt welcomed and optimistic about their upcoming high school experience.

“I love freshman orientation because it is a great opportunity for freshmen to reduce their anxiety when coming into a new place,” counselor Carrie Schaefer said as she welcomed students walking into AHS for their very first time. “They get a sense of where they’re going and they get to put a face to their teacher’s name and see a smiling face when they enter a class.”

After a brief presentation by the leadership class and a general overview of cafeteria procedures, students were released into the hallways in order to track down their classes with help from the cheerleading team and leadership students.

“The leadership students are helping out because they know the building

GWEN LEVEY

By Dana Filipczyk and Gwen Levey News Editor and Co-Editor in Chief

Leadership students greet freshman as they enter the auditorium in an enthusiastic wave.

well and they can answer any questions they [the freshmen] have,” leadership advisor and marketing teacher Stephanie Harmony said. “We also promote freshman elections and buy t-shirts in order to welcome them.”

“I remember being lost on my first day of school,” senior and leadership student Olivia Franjie said. “We just want to make sure that their [the freshmen’s] first few weeks of school are easier.”

After navigating to each of their classrooms and listening to a brief five minute presentation from each of their teachers, the Class of 2016 filed into the main gym for a pep rally. The varsity cheerleading team performed a routine to welcome the new class while the marching band and color guard team performed AHS’s fight song.

“We’re really excited because we’ve been waiting for this new class,” Randazzo said. “We’re excited for a brand new class of Atoms.”

Class of 2013 paints senior courtyard and C-train Seniors restricted from roof for safety concerns

Spirit wear was being sold for the new school year during the orientation.

The Class of 2013 painted the senior courtyard and C-train on August 23 as part of their senior spirit activities. Class President Noah Fitzgerel sent updates to peers through forms of social media during the summer.

“I used Twitter and Facebook for the class,” Fitzgerel said. “It was an idea that some of our officers had.”

Seniors RSVPed on Facebook, and about 20 showed up to paint the C-train and courtyard.

“It was a nice experience and I had fun with my friends,” senior Pheben Muche said. “I enjoyed being involved

CHRISTINE TAMIR

DANA FILIPCZYK

By Christine Tamir News Editor

The C-Train in the back parking lot reads “We came, We saw, We Conquered” on one side.

with my senior class.”

In addition to the courtyard and the C-train in the back parking lot, the rising senior class in years past have been allowed to paint the chimney. However, due to the behavior of the class of 2012, the

administration have only allowed the class officers on the roof as a result of liability issues.

“The school is just looking out for us,” senior class Vice President Nardos Assefa said. “[The administration] is looking out for our safety.”

As reported by The A-Blast in Sept. 2011, many members of the class of 2012 engaged in ‘risky and dangerous behavior on the roof,’ such as running and bringing a skateboard up there, resulting in an administrator removing the seniors from the roof.

“I think they [the administration] are right because even though people have not gotten hurt in the past years doesn’t mean anybody would get hurt this year,” Assefa said.

Despite not being allowed on the roof, both the class officers and the seniors who participated in the spirit activities enjoyed the experience. “[The experience]was phenomenal,” Fitzgerel said.“It was a wonderful way in which to affirm our place as seniors at AHS, and also a way to create solidarity in our class and get everyone together for one last summer before our last year of high school.”’

Students participate in IB camp durng the summer

Counselor Carrie Schaefer helped hand out schedules and maps to the freshmen students.

By Gwen Levey Co-Editor in Chief Most students spend July at the beach, lounging around the house, or relaxing by the pool to prepare for another year of high school. For students who attended the IB Summer Camp at AHS, a week of hands-on learning and preparedness for courses of heavy IB work awaited them.

The program started six years ago at AHS due to the county funding it. For this year, the IB Summer Camp took place the week of July 9-13.

After being recommended by core class teachers to receive a jumpstart on what it’s like to be in

COURTESY OF KATHY BERRY

GWEN LEVEY

A week of preparation for heavy IB work

Students learned annotation skills for upcoming IB courses.

an IB class, students attended camp activities for approximately four hours every afternoon. History teacher and camp director Kathy Berry joined with staff members, English teacher Kathleen Dion and

administrator Hassan Mims, to provide students with support, encouragement, and experience with what to expect in an IB or advanced class.

“We realized that students were using college level texts in their classes, which don’t have many pictures and bold headings. This can be a real challenge for students and we wanted to show students [entering IB classes] how to interact with the text,” Berry said.

The main focus of the class was teaching students how to annotate texts, deriving from question-based annotations. In the limited amount of time that the instructors had with students, they tried to give the students concrete knowledge that they would be able to take with them to their IB classes in the fall.

To read the rest of this story visit thea-blast.org

5

Photo

Sept. 5, 2012

Fresh faces with freshman football

Freshman football schedule All games start at 5:45 p.m.

Sept. 13 @ Stuart Sept. 20 vs. Oakton Sept. 27 @ West Potomac Oct. 4 @ West Springfield

The Atoms defeated Fairfax 12-6 in an intense scrimmage on Aug. 30. With the challenge of their first year in high school, many tackle the opportunity and choose to participate in football.

With cheering parents, teammates and fans in the stands, freshman Beau Hatch raced to score a touchdown on the other end of the field, tying the game. After a few injuries this summer, the team looks ahead for an optimistic season rallied by continuous support from AHS.

Oct. 11 vs. Woodson Oct. 18 vs. T.C. Williams Oct. 25 @ South County Nov. 1 @ Lee

Q&A with assistant freshman football coach: Ron Abrigo

Head coach Bill Maglisceau watches his team from the crowded sidelines.

Q. What do you think about the team this year?

A. I think that the team can be very good and they worked all summer long and they played very well against Fairfax.

Water girl Cassia Kruse helps with hydration and other needs for the team.

Players watch a play from the sidelines, anxiously awaiting the time when they can join in on the game. Players would switch out for others with their coach’s order.

Freshman Tem Awoke jumps high into the air to intercept the ball.

Q. What have you done to prepare the team for the upcoming season?

A. We brought them in last year at the end of the school year for a week to evaluate talent and also had green days this summer where they had the chance to work with the older guys. They lifted weights, worked on speed stuff, and we also had a camp.

The green days were three days a week on Monday, Wednesday and Thursday.

Q. What school do you think will be the most challenging to go against?

A. I think they are all are going to be challenging, but if they work hard, and get better everyday [then] I really like our chances.

Q. What are your goals for this season?

A. To win districts.

Freshman Davian Gonzales takes a moment on the sideline to rehydrate. Players from the varsity football team, who are role models for the freshmen, cheer for the underclassmen.

Q. Who are your key players?

A. We got Taylor Johnson, Beau Hatch, Tucker Mack and Luke Daggle. But all of them do a great job.

Q. What are your strengths and weaknesses?

A. Speed and size are our strengths. Weaknesses is [the fact] that they’re freshman [because] they’re new to it and the whole transition into high school is difficult.

Q. What is different about this team than other freshman

—Compiled by Ngan Pham

Freshman Will Ellis receives tips on how to stretch properly during the game in order to prevent muscle tearing and serious injury later on in the season.

Assistant coach Ron Abrigo watches the game from the sidelines. He also works with the JV and varsity team.

—Photos by Colleen Adenan

For the rest of the interview, scan this barcode with your smartphone.

8

Lifestyles

Livi Listens Advice Column

By Olivia Lafferty Dear Livi, As a junior, it’s my first year on a varsity sport and taking all of these hard IB classes. I’m really scared that I’m not going to be able to balance my sports, school, and social life.

It’s still summer and I already feel overwhelmed with trying to find time to do my summer assignments while maintaining a social life and going to all of my practices and games. Once it’s the school year I’m afraid that it’s going to be ten times harder to balance all of my responsibilities. What should I do?

Sept. 5, 2012

Looking your best for less

Believe it or not, the answer to almost all of your appearance struggles is not in the cosmetic aisle of the local pharmacy, but in the kitchen. Making your own natural remedies at home, rather than using store bought products has many advantages.

Most teenagers blow hundreds of dollars every year on these costly store bought products like acne cream or white strips, when they could simply make a similar and just as effective product at home for cheap.

Chances are, the ingredients in most of these recipes are already lying around your house, if not they can easily be bought at a grocery store for very little money.

Ingredients like avocados, baking soda and honey have lots of health benefits and can be used in many different natural remedies.

These home remedies are very easy to find on the internet and in multiple health magazines. Due to the various economic and health benefits, a movement towards

Eyebrow waxing:

Ingredients: 2 cups of sugar, 1/4 cup of water and 1/4 cup of lemon juice 1. Mix ingredients in a medium saucepan with heat on low 2. Continue to heat until mixture is thick and light brown 3. Remove from heat and apply to eyebrows with wooden stick 4. Use store bought wax strips or fabric strips to remove unwanted hairs

Compare to: Sally Hansen wax removal kit, $19.99

--Stressed student Dear Stressed student, I know it seems very hard at first, but you’ll get used to the overwhelming schedule eventually. Many other students at AHS have been in the same stressful situation and have still managed to succeed. It’s all about setting your priorities, and deciding which aspect of your life is the most important to you. Remember that you’re a student before an athlete, and in the long run school is going to help you out the most. Yes, you’ll have to miss the occasional party or hangout to study or go to practice, but there will be plenty of other opportunities to catch up with your friends.

-Livi

natural remedies over store bought products has become popular, even with kids at AHS. “I found some easy home remedy tutorials on Pinterest and decided that I wanted to try some out,” junior Jennifer Nguyen said. “I tried a home-made eyelash serum and it surprisingly seems to work.”

Making home remedies with food items from your kitchen also reassures you that what you are using is natural. More often than not, products from the stores have various harsh chemicals or unknown ingredients that can cause side effects or allergic reactions.

It is very calming to know everything that is in the product that you are using.

Overall, these natural remedies are much easier, safer and cheaper. See popular, quick alternatives to every-day grooming products below.

Heavily chlorinated hair treatment: Ingredients: 1 egg, 1 eggshell’s worth of olive oil and 1 quarter of a peeled cucumber

Compare to:

1. Blend ingredients 2. Spread evenly through hair 3. Rinse after ten minutes

Ultra Swim chlorine removal shampoo, $4.99

Remove undereye circles:

Healthier hair:

Ingredients: 1 avocado, 1 banana and 2 tablespoons of olive oil

Ingredients: 2 caffinated tea bags

1. Mash ingredients together and beat until smooth 2. Apply to hair and leave in for ten minutes 3. Rinse in shower and shampoo and condition as usual

1. Soak caffinated tea bags in hot water 2. Lay down with eyes closed and place tea bags over eyes 3. Let sit for ten minutes and repeat daily as needed

Compare to:

Compare to:

Pantene Ice Shine 2-in-1 shampoo and conditioner, $4.99

Garnier skin renew antidark circle roller, $12.99

Have a problem? E-mail Livi at: livi.listens@gmail.com

Top 8 men’s grooming products for under $10

#1

Old Spice fresh collection Fiji Body Spray, $2.99

#2 Nivea for Men replenishing post shave balm, $6.99

#3

Blackhead scrub:

1. Cut peeled peach into cubes, then mash 2. Beat egg yolk and add 1 tablespoon of honey, then mix with peach cubes 3. Apply and leave for 30 minutes, then rinse

Clean and Clear blackhead cleansing scrub, $5.50

#4 Vaseline men’s face and body lotion extra strength, $3.75

#5

Degree men’s active response deodorant, $3.84

#6 Head and Shoulders hair endurance 2 in 1, $4.97

#7

Neutrogena men skin clearing shaving cream, $3.93

Ingredients: 1 strawberry and baking soda

Ingredients: 1 peach, 1 egg yolk and 1 tablespoon of honey

Compare to:

Axe skin contact sensitive skin shower gel, $3.99

Teeth whitening:

UR

CO

TE

Compare to:

Ingredients: 1 teaspoon of honey and 2 tablespoons of sugar

Crest 3D Whitestrips, $55

1. Mix ingredients into paste 2. Apply onto lips 3. Let dry and then remove with wet towel

Compare to:

Burt’s Bees beeswax lip balm, $2.99

Hand softening:

Ingredients: 1 ounce ground almonds, 1 teaspoon clear honey, 2 teaspoons walnut or sunflower oil and 1 teaspoon lemon juice

Compare to:

Neutrogena fast absorbing hand cream, $6.49

1. Mix ingredients into paste 2. Rub onto hands for two to three minutes and rinse 3. Repeat once or twice a day

Jeans are in: new ways to wear denim take over fashion world

Gillete Mach 3 Razor, $8.62

On your smartphone, scan this code using the application “QR Code” to read about popular frozen yogurt places in the area.

OF

S

SIA

LE

IG

Soft lips:

#8

Froyo obsession

Y

S TE

A SS

1. Mash strawberry in a bowl (strawberries contain acids that remove surface stains) 2. Dip toothbrush in mashed strawberry and brush over teeth 3. Rinse mouth out and brush teeth with baking soda 4. Rinse mouth out and repeat once a day

In the latest fashion magazines, that have been promoting back to school looks, jeans/ denim seem to be the most popular item to buy for back to school. Denim is not just used as material for jeans,but also as the materials in handbags, jackets, etc.

There are a variety of ways to buy denim beyond the regular blue- colored, there’s also bleached, ripped, and patterned. The trend I have seen the most in the stores are patterned ones and colored ones, a trend that started last year.

I love the rainbow of colors I see in the Delia’s storefront.

Aeropostale has some really cute floral print ones, being sponsored

by Chloe Grace Moretz.

Other stars are sporting the trend, as well, now more than ever.

Celebs like Rihanna, Victoria Justice, and Kendall Jenner (who rocked a pair of python patterned jeans), have been seen wearing the trend and used as an inspiration for those who are getting ready for back-to-school. I hope to see some fresh styles this school year and happy back to school!

Compare to:

The Body Shop peppermint cooling punice foot scrub, $14

Homemade foot scrub:

Ingredients: 2 table spoons brown sugar, 1 table spoon honey, 1 teaspoon lemon juice and 1 teaspoon almond oil 1. Soak feet in warm water 2. Mix ingredients in bowl 3. Scrub onto feet, then rinse

Arts

Sept. 5, 2012

A new change in rhythm

What was the most exciting thing that happened at band camp?

Band director strikes good notes with his students

New band director Adam Hilkert (second from left) poses with his colleagues at the Marching Atoms’ summer retreat.

assumed a new position as Robinson Secondary School’s band director with Hilkert as his replacement.

When Hilkert attended Lawrence High School in Indianapolis, he was involved in band, orchestra, choir, the student newspaper, speech team and theater production. His specialty instruments remain the string bass and the bass guitar. Hilkert also studied voice in college as part of his music major.

The AHS Marching Atoms have a tough season ahead, as Hilkert has laid out even bigger plans for them: “[My plan with them] is to start seeking national recognition,” Hilkert said.

AHS will try to compete in many competitions this year, including Bands of America, a Music for All national band competition program.

“In the coming years, I’d like to see the band do well at those events,” Hilkert said.

PHOTO COURTESY OF BRIAR CREEK PHOTOGRAPHY

By Abby barnes Arts Editor The AHS Marching Atoms welcomed its newest addition, Adam Hilkert, formerly of Langley High School, this school year. Hilkert, multi-talented and a native of Indianapolis, is currently getting his doctorate in conducting at George Mason University, and has recently added band director for the AHS Marching Atoms to his decked-out résumé.

Band students, such as senior Gabriel Kuhl, approve of the positive changes Hilkert is making to the program.

“I think, as a teacher, he definitely knows his stuff,” Kuhl said. “He was able, especially at camp, to effectively balance fun with work [and] also succeeded in bringing back and maintaining band traditions for the seniors.”

A well-rounded musician and fan of the arts, Hilkert’s an inspiration to band students at Annandale.

“If they’re not inspired and exhausted at the end of rehearsal then I’m not doing my job,” Hilkert said.

Hilkert also has plenty of inspirational quotes that he uses to motivate his band, including “‘Talent is never enough,’ ‘Luck is where preparation meets opportunity,’ and ‘When I conduct, it doesn’t make any sounds; [you] make all the sounds.’”

The AHS Marching Atoms have been part of a Virginia Honor Band for 15 years, a high honor for any high school band. But Hilkert did not only choose AHS for its tradition of excellence. “[AHS] kind of feels like a family. A lot of the other county’s schools don’t have that,” Hilkert said.

Former AHS band director, Andrew Loft,

9

Tom Updike, senior and drum major, agrees that the Marching Atoms have national potential.

“We have very talented musicians and marchers,” Updike said. “This season will be very fruitful if the band puts in 100 percent of their effort.”

The AHS Marching Atoms will have Tag Day Saturday, Sept. 8. Members will ask for contributions at homes in the district to raise funds for transportation, instruments, uniforms, guest clinicians and fees. In order for the band to develop skills and spread their talent, monetary contributions from the community are needed.

All the band concerts are free and halftime shows at football games feature the Marching Atoms. People can also see the Marching Atoms march in the Annandale Community Parade on Saturday, Oct. 27.

“Probably superhero night.

We had a lot of fun together.”

—Caitlin White freshman

“The free time.

Like the pool.” ­—Thomas White sophomore

“The talent show and superhero night.”

—Ahyeong Park junior

“Senior prank night and superhero day because I got to dress up like a Powerpuff Girl.”

This one time at band camp. . .

The Marching Atoms, at their annual away camp in West Virginia, begin to move into their formations after standing on their “dots,” which is marching band terminology for their positions.

—­Karina Lovo senior

“How we were able to go swimming again and senior night.”

—Alex Williams senior

“Senior night, playing pool with all the staff, Cheerwine soda, and just hanging out with everybody.

And trashing the camp.”

—Gabe Kuhl senior — Compiled by Carina Chu

PHOTO COURTESY OF A BEAUTIFUL MESS BLOG

DIY Art Project

Above: band camp was not just all work and no play: the band members had free time. Top right: the band had a “drill down” where they were eliminated if they did not follow Hilkert’s random instructions in marching technique correctly. Bottom right: senior drum major Tom Updike learns conducting hand gestures from Hilkert.

On your smartphone, scan the code above using the application “QR Code” to learn a nifty and easy DIY wall art project.

­—Photos courtesy of Briar Creek Photography

Field hockey dominates ‘Under the Lights’ Annandale 5; Hylton 0 Annandale 3; Stuart 0 Annandale 4; Edison 0 Annandale 3; Robinson 2

Senior Paige Britton dribbles the ball.

This is Britton’s first year of field hockey.

Sept. 5, 2012

Field hockey fights to win Girls go undefeated during tournament and are chosen for the sportsmanship award

By Betsy Kruse Sports Editor Playing back to back games in the afternoon hot sun is difficult, primarily due to fatigue, but for the AHS field hockey team, a tournament was the perfect way to start off the season.

While playing in Lee High’s Under the Lights tournament, the Atoms were undefeated in their pool.

“The tournament was really successful and we were able to accomplish everything we wanted to,” junior Bayley Brill said.

The Atoms’ first three games were shut-outs.

The results were Hylton High 5-0, Stuart 3-0 and Edison 4-0.

Going into their final game of the tournament, both Robinson and Annandale had won all of their previous games. The Atoms came out strong and scored early in the first half, but the Rams came back and scored two goals.

During the second half the Atoms pulled together and two goals were scored by senior Rowan Shartel and sophomore Jenny McCann, which allowed the Atoms to take the lead.

“We all work together really well and talk to each other on the field a lot,” Brill said.

The game was intense from start to finish and when the clock ran out the Rams were on the attack, but the Atoms were able to hold them out.

Throughout the tournament the Atoms outscored their opponents 15-2 and had eight different players score, showing the team’s depth

COURTESY OF RANDY ALLSHOUSE

10

Sports

Sophomore Jenny McCann dribbles past a Stuart defender to cross the ball into the circle. This is her first year on varsity.

and versatility.

“I would say that we are really strong defensively and we all get along really well,” senior Jenny Jessen said.

The tournament brought the team’s record to 5-0, and it was later announced that the Atoms had also been voted to win the sportsmanship award for the entire tournament.

The referees made notes of each team after every game and elected the Atoms to win the award out of all 18 teams that were there.

“So far, I think the team is doing great, and our record shows it,” senior Paige Britton said. “We are all working very hard to get the results we

want. Our team is playing with one heart and will hopefully continue this for the rest of the season.”

In the following week, the Atoms faced Edison High again, but lost in a 0-1 game making their current record 5-1. The Eagles scored early in the first half and although the Atoms dominated in ball possession and were on the attack for the majority of the game, they were unable to score against Edison’s defense.

“I think sometimes we forget to use all our players, specifically the less vocal ones,” Jessen said.

The Atoms’ next game will be at home tonight at 7:15 against West Potomac.

Cross country off to a fast start

By Betsy Kruse Sports Editor

Head coach Cindy Hook watches the Atom’s second game against Stuart.

The gun goes off and the runners begin, trying to position themselves to their advantage so they can start off quickly and remain in front of the pack. The mentality of a runner allows them to push through the pain and kick it into high gear to pull ahead.

“Our team strength is our ability to run in packs and to push ourselves as a group,” senior Andrew Boyd said.

AHS Cross Country has been practicing throughout the month of August and, because of the newly instated green days, e v e n p a r t of July. However, their biggest challenges are beginning as meets and invitationals start occurring.

with the returning runners to create a solid balance for both the girls and boys teams.

“I believe that we have a lot of talent on our team this year, especially the upcoming freshman class, so it should be interesting to see how they perform,” senior Connie Tran said.

“Our top runner this year is definitely freshman Ashley Britton,” junior Tricia Liller said.

Despite districts being at the end of the season, many runners are already looking towards the post season and setting their goals high.

“Our team goal is to make it to regionals as a team,” Girardin said.

“I think the season will go well and AHS will continue to have a good cross country team for years to come due to the strength in the lower Seniors Andrew Boyd and Hung Truong complete an easy workout on the track during practice. grades,” senior Gunnar Thompson said.

“I think the season will go pretty want,” senior Clark Girardin said.

The first meet of the season well because our top seven guys are Even though the Atoms lost state occurred Aug. 30, but ended too late pretty close together, which will give champion Ahmed Bile, they have a to be covered in this issue. us a lower score, which is what we lot of new talent this year mixing in COLLEEN ADENAN

The AHS defense prepares for a corner.

Both boys and girls teams expect to be highly competitive

Golf faces losses early Girls beat Stuart High

Senior Shannon Casey speed dribbles past Edison’s defense to take a shot.

By Christine Tamir News Editor The AHS golf team battled their way through several tournaments early in their season and suffered several losses. Despite the setbacks, the team has won a single match of the six the six they have played.

Matches have been played all around Fairfax County and the Atoms have faced schools such as T.C. Williams, South County SS, Fairfax HS and many others on difficult courses like Laurel Hill Golf Club, Twin Lakes Golf Course and Pohick Bay Golf Course.

The AHS golf team is currently 1-6, which is not indicative of their

—Photos courtesy of Randy Allshouse

Golf tournament slideshow

Volleyball rallies to start their season off with an impressive win

By Betsy Kruse Sports Editor AHS defeated Stuart High three sets to two in a back and forth battle on the Raider’s home turf last Tuesday night.

“I think we played really well last night and it was great to start the season off with a win,” senior Jenny Ha said.

The Atoms came out strong and won the first set. Stuart, however, retaliated and bounced back to win the second set.

Going into the final set, both the Atoms and Raiders had two wins and needed only one more to win the match.

Although a highly competitive set, the Atoms pulled through and won, raising their record to 1-0. “[Senior] Brooke Terry had a great run in the last set, where she served

the ball almost ten times in a row,” Ha said.

Terry is one of six seniors on the team this year, many of whom have been playing on the varsity level since their sophomore year, giving the Atoms experience and knowledge needed to overcome their opponents.

The Atoms also have a number players that are members of club teams. This enables them to keep up their skills in the off season, allowing them to come out stronger than their less prepared competitors.

“We’re going to need to learn how to work even better together to continue our success throughout the season,” senior Clare Lazar said. “Winning our first game will hopefully give us the momentum we need.”

“For our next game we are focusing on our consistency and putting matches away in three sets,” senior Corinne Balicki said. “We really want to improve on keeping our energy levels high.”

The Atoms had a home game against Edison High last night. The game ended too late to be covered in this issue.

CHRISTINE TAMIR

On your smartphone, scan this code using the application “QR Code” to view photos of the golf team.

collective golf abilities. Head Coach Richard McCormack explains that the team was only a few strokes off of second or third place for the tournaments.

“With golf, the two hardest tournaments are the first week of the season,” McCormack said. He also attributes the losses to lack of preparation, explaining that the team had not come into the season with developed form.

The varsity squad played in the Atomic Invitational, the Stallion Invitational and Charger Challenge during the beginning of the season, but did not win any of the three.

The varsity team consists of sophomore Richie Fruchterman, junior Michael Danyliw and seniors Stephen Oakes, Christian Wong and Michael Hennessey. The youngest member of the team, Fruchterman, has quickly risen to the challenge and posted scores in the high 80s for 18 holes and in the low 40s for nine holes.

Although the team has suffered numerous losses, Coach McCormack is confident that the team will rise to the challenge and pull together a few wins before the end of the season.

“The team started slow, and is building up pace. It’s going to run so fast and get so good and it’s just going to be awesome,” McCormack said.

Apart from the varsity squad, the team has welcomed several new players; even some to the game of golf. Senior Jonathan Tedla started golf earlier this summer, before the August 1st tryouts, and has been improving since day one, attributing much of his success to the coaches.

“Coach McCormack and Coach [Tom] Smith both really showed me my form, and how to really hit the ball straight,” Tedla said.

For both the newcomers and veterans of the team, McCormack has one collective goal.

“My hope is that each player fulfils their potential; then we’ll have a really strong team.”

COURTESY OF JONATHAN PRATT

Junior Elizabeth Manthos takes a penalty stroke against the Stuart goalie.

Despite 1-6 record, golf remains confident for future matches

Junior Carl Samuelson lines up a shot at the driving range at Army Navy Country Club.

Seniors Jessica Gallogly and Clare Lazar combine their efforts to block an attempted spike.

Entertainment

Sept. 5, 2012

NoVA band TheRuinCity

Q: How and when did TheRuinCity form?

A: TRC was formed in early 2011.

David Hoppel and I had been playing music together for over 10 years at that point, and had done a couple projects together, but nothing that was really stable. We just decided to grab David’s brother, Josh, take the step, make a CD and see what happens. After some great musicians came and went, Kyle and Dillon Knighton officially joined us back in November.

Q: How would you describe your music to someone who’s never heard it before?

A: We typically refer to our music as Piano Rock. We relate our sound to The Fray, Switchfoot, Coldplay, Copeland and Mae.

check out that song which is “Home.”

We really stepped up our game with this song, and with the new EP in general, and I think this song would best display our essence as a band as well as show the direction we’re headed with the new release.

Q: Which one of your songs would you tell a new fan to listen to first?

A: Well, we released a song from our upcoming EP on September on our Facebook, so I would suggest people

Q: What has been the most enlightening moment of your musical career?

A: Wow... I guess the most enlightening moment was the moment we realized that performing music gives you a chance to really affect people. When you’re up on stage, or when your albums playing through someones car stereo, you have the chance to reach people deeper than you do through a normal conversation.

can give to a high school student trying to pursue a career in music?

A: 1. I would say you better be prepared to hustle! It’s hard work. 2.

I would say write and play music for a purpose. Melodies wrapped over radio waves won’t last forever. The impact of your music on the world is what will last.

Q: Where do you hope to see your band a year from now?

A: Well, we have a few really exciting opportunities in front of us right now, and the next few months will determine where we go. Perhaps a Justin Bieber world tour? Yeah, thats where I hope to be.

Q: Any last words to say to our viewers?

Q: You are playing an EP release A: Definitely want you guys to jump show at Jammin’ Java on on our Facebook for updates on the October 26, what can we expect new CD release. We will be posting on this EP? some new and exclusive content over A: You can expect a much more the next few weeks to get people professional sounding record. pumped for our EP release and you Now that the five of us have don’t wanna miss out! really “clicked” in our writing and www.Facebook.com/ production, I think our sound and TheRuinCityBand new songs are better then ever.

On your smartphone, Every song off this album has scan this code using its own personality and feel. We the application couldn’t be more excited about it.

“QR Code” to read Q: What’s the best advice you the entire version of TheRuinCity’s interview.

The Fray and Kelly Clarkson

The original American Idol and Colorado locals hit the road for their summer tour

By Sarah Bergen Entertainment Editor

I entered Jiffy Lube Live with high expectations, having seen The Fray three times before, and Kelly Clarkson twice. I knew this was about to be a show I wouldn’t forget. As I took my seat dead center, South Carolina band Carolina Liar took the stage.

They were at a disadvantage with such an empty amphitheater, as fans were waiting to arrive for the two headliners. The crowd didn’t seem very interested until they played their hit single, “Show Me What I’m Looking For.” Next, Denver Colorado locals, The Fray, took the stage with “Turn Me On,” a song off their latest album “Scars and Stories,” released in 2011.

The venue was now filled completely and ready to hear more music. The Fray’s lead singer Issac Slade did a phenomenal job of getting the crowd involved in the songs.

About seven songs in, Issac had the music stop, and said the following speech “We’re from Denver, Colorado, about 25 minutes from Aurora. I was home that night. About an hour and a half later, a young man stepped into a theater, and took and

took and took. We do not know why. Then a week later in Wisconsin, someone else did it, and again we do not know why. But there is energy that takes and there is energy that gives. We can be black holes that take and take and take. Or we can be the opposite of black holes, and give and give and give. I want you to stand up on your feet tonight, in honor of those who fell. We stand with the victims families, the people that were there, the people that survived and we give.” The entire venue was on their feet to show their respect.

Slade then began singing his song “Happiness.”

As he sang, Slade walked into the crowd, up one side of the steps, to the lawn, and back down the

other side, still singing. He stopped at times to let the crowd sing the chorus. Still in the crowd Slade also sang “Be Still.”

Later in their set, Slade sat down at the piano and said, “After walking around this crowd, I noticed it’s a white-ass crowd, so here’s some Motown.” He then began to play The Temptations song “Ain’t Too Proud To Beg.” This then lead into playing their three most popular singles “How To Save A Life,” “Over My Head” and “Heartbeat” to end the show.

Finally it was time for Kelly Clarkson. She entered the stage with “My Life Would Suck Without You.” Kelly did a great job and it was great to hear old songs, like “Breakaway” to “Miss Independent” and slowing it down for “Because of You.” At one point she also entered the crowd to sing Fun.’s cover of “We Are Young.” Also, after taking requests from fans, decided on covering TLC’s “Scrubs,” with the comedic act being her bassist acting as her back-up dancer.

Although I enjoyed Kelly’s performance, my only complaint is how much media has changed her after winning American Idol. The very first time I saw Kelly was right after her big win. She wore khaki pants, a black t-shirt and was barefoot.

That show was all about the music, and it was an incredible show. This time around, she had a total of five outfit changes, and I feel like it was more about the performance this time and not so much the singing.

Owl City disappoints in The Midsummer Station Owl City leaves listeners upset with typical beats and everyday pop tunes

By Emily Blank Entertainment Editor Ever since Owl City’s hit track “Fireflies’” hit radio stations in the summer of 2009, he became an instant hit across the country.

Owl City released his fourth studio album The Midsummer Station on Aug. 21, leaving audiences displeased and unhappy with his lack of unique tracks. In his new bubblegum pop album, Adam Young

did something he has never really sounds like Flo Rida’s popular song attempted before; he collaborated “Good Feeling’” but then of course, with co-producers, co-writers and goes into his practical chorus and other artists. melody. Young’s vocal range does It seemed like a not seem to be that broad, success when he released Album Review: so that could be a possible h i s fi rs t s i n g l e fr om Owl City’s The explanation to why his songs Midsummer the new album, “Good lack personality. The tune’s Station Time,” featuring Carly sound opted more towards Rae Jepsen, the famed a cherubic audience, almost “Call Me Maybe’”vocalist. like that of a Kidz Bop album.

Nevertheless, the rest Young’s typical beats no of his tracks lacked longer give him the chance to individuality; every song expand his range in his songs, on the album began to sound the leaving tracks to be forgettable and same, mimicking the same upbeat leave listeners unimpressed. This tune. It sounded just like anything album would make a great playlist else you would hear from today’s pop for a Disney soundtrack, but it isn’t savvy singers, The beginning of the something that will be ringing in track ‘I’m Coming After You’ almost your head for days.

11 Upcoming concerts

Jason Aldean & Luke Bryan Sat., Sept. 8 Merriweather Post Pavilion

Big Time Rush Sun., Sept. 9 Jiffy Lube Live

Owl City Mon., Sept. 10 The 9:30 Club

Bon Iver Sat., Sept. 15 Merriweather Post Pavilion

Eric Church Sun., Sept. 16 Merriweather Post Pavilion

Florence & The Machines Wed., Sept. 19 Merriweather Post Pavilion

Ed Sheeran Sat., Sept. 22 The 9:30 Club

D+

Celebri-

Madonna Sun & Mon., Sept. 23 & 24 The Verizon Center

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Get inside your favorite celebrities’ heads Aaron Gillespie Tues., Sept. 25 Jammin’ Java

“The violence within us is being fully exploited by the gun sellers in America. Let’s end our addiction and entitlement to violence. #greedkills” —Jim Carrey

“I am happier than I’ve ever been in my life. I pray that everyone is this happy and if you’re not and going through a rough time, I pray you find the happiness we all deserve.”

—Kelly Clarkson

“Finish the week strong.

Work to get better not to get done today. You are only as good or bad as your next action.”

—Ryan Lochte

“Encourage children to believe in achieving their dreams... we can do anything we set our minds to!”

—Cesar Millan

WEBSUDOKU.COM

Carolina Liar & The Fray Concert Photos On your smartphone, scan this code using the application “QR Code” to read the entire version of TheRuinCity’s interview.

12

Weekend

Sept. 5, 2012

Savor summer’s final days

Seniors make their mark on the chimney and “c-train”

SARAH BERGEN

Officers painted their names on the bottom of the chimney as a sign off.

This sign shows the par and instructions at the hole.

Senior Jonathan Pratt throws his disc at the target.

FRISBEE GOLF

Frisbee golf, also known as disc golf and nicknamed “frolfing” by several AHS seniors, is a game that is growing in popularity. Its rules and objectives are very similar to traditional golf, with players throwing a frisbee at a stationary target with the goal of being able to finish the course with as few throws as possible. The frisbees used are different than “normal” frisbees that are commercially sold, because these unique discs are sleeker and more aerodynamic. This way, they can cut through the air better and not be affected by breezes or other factors. Burke Lake offers a frisbee golf course, one of the only in the area, that many AHS students take advantage of. The appeal?

“I like frolfing because I like to play golf, but this is different than traditional golf so it makes it fun,” senior Jonathan Pratt said. Pratt and several friends have been “frolfing” since November and all have purchased their own special discs.

Each hole has specific instructions printed on a sign that detail the par and where the target is located, as well as any out of bounds areas. The 18 hole course at Burke Lake winds throughout the woods of the park and comes close to the shore, offering great views.

ROWAN SHARTEL

ASHLEY LOK

Senior Clark Girardin throws his aerodynamic orange disc.

ROWAN SHARTEL

ROWAN SHARTEL

ASHLEY LOK

Class officers began painting early.

ROWAN SHARTEL

Burke Lake park has many options for fun in the sun as vacation ends

Pratt prepares to hit the target with his disc, finishing hole eight and moving on to the next in the course.

2013 class bulletin

FISHING

ROWAN SHARTEL

This side of the c-train used hand prints.

FAIRFAXCOUNTY.GOV/PARKS

ROWAN SHARTEL

SARAH BERGEN

Seniors Ashley Lok, Sarah Bergen and Gunnar Thompson finished the chimney.

HIKING

MINI GOLF

Aside from the other activities, there are Burke Lake offers an 18 hole mini golf Burke Lake is one of the largest spots in the numerous trails throughout the park for hiking, course.

The course has ropes, trees, rocks and area to fish, with 5.25 miles of shoreline available. walking, running and biking. These are wide, waterfalls for a unique feel, The rates are: $7 According to Fairfax County Parks and Recreation, scenic paths that many people use daily to enjoy for adults, and $6 for kids and those over 65. it has the greatest largemouth bass population in the outdoors. The popularity also is beneficial Northern Virginia. Docks are available during all because it means that the trails are safer hours that the park is open, including a marina for people using them. However, it is always Location: 7315 Ox Rd and a launch ramp. It is very popular to fish along important to be safe and smart when hiking. Make Fairfax Station, VA the shore as well. A fishing license is required for sure you have adequate food, water and clothing 22039 those over the age of 16, but is easily obtainable before walking, and that you tell someone that you Hours: Sunrise to sunset online from the VA Dept. of Game and Inland are hiking for safety reasons. weekends through Oct. 28 Fisheries.

BURKE LAKE PARK

JOSIE’S

Kiss summer goodbye On your smartphone, scan the above code using the application “QR code” to view an exclusive article about late summer activities.

SWEET FROG

Josie’s is a self-serve frozen yogurt store with a wide variety of flavors including tart, chocolate, mango, strawberry lemonade and more. Aside from a myriad of yogurt options, there are also many toppings including Oreo pieces, gummy bears, coconut, nuts and chocolate chips.

Because it is self-serve, each customer’s bowl is weighed at the register and prices are by the ounce. If you are looking for quality frozen yogurt with tons of options to choose from, look no further than Josie’s.

This is another self-serve frozen yogurt cafe. It offers a large variety of flavors, including unique ones like peanut butter, coconut and cheesecake.

A major perk of Sweet Frog is that they offer customers “sample cups” to try out the flavors before deciding and purchasing one.

This allows them the opportunity to not only pick a flavor best suited for them, but to sample some other fine flavors!

10625 Braddock Rd Fairfax, VA 22032 Mon-Sun: 11 a.m.-10 p.m.

3219 Duke St Alexandria, VA 22314 Mon-Sun: 11:30 a.m.-10 p.m.

YOGENFRUZ.COM

Jump into the frozen yogurt craze with four local hot spots

ROWAN SHARTEL

A class meeting will be on Sept.

19. Change to donate is appreciated.

SARAH BERGEN

Graduation countdown: 281 days

ROWAN SHARTEL

Senior “Spirit Packs” will be on sale for $40 and include senior-specific spirit wear.

PINKBERRY For those who are just getting into frozen yogurt, or who may not be sure if they like it or not, PinkBerry is a good option because the cafe also sells parfaits, cones and smoothies.

They have a range of flavors and toppings available and the frozen yogurt is sold by size, not self-serve. The prices are slightly higher than other places, but the quality is good and it is worth it if you are sampling or looking for other options as well to spice up your visit.

11942 Grand Commons Ave Fairfax, VA 22030 Sun-Thurs: 8 a.m.-12 a.m.

Fri-Sat: 8 a.m.-1 a.m.

YOGEN FRUZ Conveniently located inside the mall at Tyson’s Corner, Yogen Fruz is a unique frozen yogurt chain. They offer plain yogurt and many toppings, but they also offer the option of blending a frozen fruit into vanilla or chocolate yogurt to achieve a unique flavor.

This way, customers can try plain yogurt or try their own creation, like raspberry-chocolate frozen yogurt. After a day of shopping or just for a break and a snack, this is a great option to check out.

1961 Chain Bridge Rd. McLean, VA 22102 Sun-Thurs: 12 p.m.-10 p.m.

Fri-Sat: 12 p.m.-11 p.m.