Issue2

4 News describes the Class of 2013’s experience as the largest class in AHS’s history

In-Depth focuses on how society contributes to overconsumption of natural resources

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the VOLUME #59 ISSUE 2

Back to School Night Schedule 6 - 7 p.m.

Information Station in the Main Gym

7 - 7:18

Welcome and introductions in the Main Gym

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International

Sports X-tra

profiles a student’s volunteer experience in Zambia

features students that choose to play club and high school sports

Weekend shows several cheap options for dining and activities with friends in Annandale

ANNANDALE HIGH SCHOOL 4700 Medford Dr. Annandale, VA 22003

Informiing the Atoms siince 1954 4

WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 19, 2012

(703) 642-4229

Hookah’s hidden truth What health class doesn’t teach may be costly to students

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7:40 - 7:50

R3

7:55 - 8:05

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BY GWEN LEVEY AND KYLEE NISKER Co-Editor in Chief and Health Editor

8:10 - 8:20

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8:25 - 8:35

W2

8:40 - 8:45

W4

8:50 - 9:00

W6

9:05 - 9:15

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Students have heard of them all before— tobacco, marijuana, smokeless tobacco—and know that using these tobacco-based products are unsafe. Use of these products have decreased severely in the last decade, but the popularity of another has not: the hookah.

According to a recent survey conducted on 500 students (see page 7 for full results), about 76 percent of them have never used a tobacco-based product, including the hookah. Though this data proves that the student body hardly uses tobacco products, students are still smoking the hookah; most of the time doing it illegally.

Breathed out of a pipe with the makings of foreign tobaccos, honey molasses and dried fruit, the hookah’s surge in popularity among students stems back to its early Middle Eastern roots. The

PHOTO ILLUSTRATION BY KYLEE NISKER AND NGAN PHAM

7:25 - 7:35

Leukemia fundraiser begins

Students often smoke hookah for cultural or social reasons, but what many don’t realize is that the nicotine levels in the substance is actually higher than that found in common cigarettes.

Wheel of Fortune hosts teacher Popular game show makes math teacher a contestant on Oct. 24

BY GWEN LEVEY Co-Editor in Chief

By the numbers

$3

The number of student directors for Class Acts this year See page 8

5

The number of steps needed to do your own water marble manicure See page 14

10

Billions of water consumed this year See pages 10-11

3.5

A game show, a do-it-yourself home board game, and an American punchline that has included the likes of Vanna White and other famous celebrities, ABC’s Wheel of Fortune has dominated airways since its debut in 1975. If you are watching on Oct. 24 at 7 p.m., then you’ll see math teacher Michael Mazzarella take the stage as part of the show’s “Teacher Week.”

Mazzarella has been a fan of the game show since he was a toddler, watching contestants flamboyantly compete for money by solving difficult puzzles on his grandmother’s television when she used to babysit him. The former University of Maryland mascot thought of the idea to apply randomly to be one of

these contestants on the popular show’s site, and seven months later he was selected to come in for a closed audition in Washington, D.C. on Aug. 1.

“There were 50 people [at the audition],” Mazzarella said. “The were looking for enthusiastic people who could yell loud and always had a big smile on their face -- just like on the show.”

The audition was three hours of simulated games in front of contestant producers who would monitor contestants reactions. The contestants had to go through the puzzles yelling and clapping with enthusiasm before taking a written portion with 16 different puzzles.

“I only got eight [puzzles] right,” Mazzarella Mazzarella poses with his students in a picture that will appear said. “But then I was looking at everyone else’s and as part of a ‘Wheel of Fortune’ commercial. saw the average was about two, so I knew I was in ‘teacher week’ the following week so they needed a pretty good shape.” teacher to fill in for someone who had dropped out.”

The 50 contestants were then cut down to eight Mazzarella volunteered, though there were and Mazzarella was selected to be one of them. several other teachers of the eight who were chosen From there, more difficult tests were given to the to go onto the next level. contestants, such as a real-life Wheel of Fortune “They said they would call us that night if we game that Mazzarella excelled at. got chosen for Teacher Week,” Mazzarella said. “So “[The producers] said they would send a letter I was driving home to see my parents in New York in two weeks to those who they selected to be on after the audition when a producer called me and the show,” Mazzarella said. “But they were filming said ‘Hey, it’s Gary from Wheel of Fortune!’ and I

“Mazzarella” continues on page 5

Service Learning Projects set to begin New human rights group begins

The number of seniors on varsity volleyball See page 17

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The number of WWE action figures senior Daniel Critchfield has See page 6

BY K.L. HOANG In-Depth Editor

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K.L. HOANG

The cost of a small coffee at Bearetics See page 20

“Hookah” continues on page 5

COLLEEN ADENAN

Science National Honor Society will host a fundraiser for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society.

It will take place at the AnnandaleOakton football game Sept. 21 before and after the game at Oakton HS. The fundraiser will feature a raffle for many prizes and all profit will go to the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society.

Changing the world. Helping humanity.

Saving the Earth.

All noble endeavors that many youth are passionate about, but often discouraged from following. Practical opportunities for these ventures seldom appear, but not for AHS. A project of the Robert F. Kennedy

Physics teacher Thomas Chorman and two other students work on planting vegetable in the SLP Human Rights Garden, located in the courtyard.

Center for Justice and Human Rights and a Service Learning Project (SLP) involving the community garden that was revived last year by a student and psychology teacher Katie Gould will both be experienced here soon. This is a program connecting American University’s Washington College of Law (WCL) and Speak Truth to Power (STTP).

The first of its kind, the Human Rights Teaching Fellows Program, brings law students, high school teachers and students together to promote education and activism. Trained law students will provide youth with means to create change in their communities through eight classes starting Wednesday, Oct 3 after school.

“SLP” continues on page 5

Class Acts returns for next competitive year

On your smartphone, scan this code using the application “QR Code” to read about the new committee’s attempt to rewrite the SR&R.

BY GWEN LEVEY Co-Editor in Chief “There’s nothing else in the school like Class Acts.

It brings together all of the classes in a competition that they can be proud of.”

Theater arts teacher George Bennett looks forward to the annual event put on by the theater department every year, because it gives everyone in the school an opportunity to act who may not

GWEN LEVEY

FCPS discipline committee forms

The Class of 2013 attempts four-time win

be in mainstage productions throughout the year.

Each class puts on a one-act, 30 minute play in the auditorium, but on Oct. 4 at 7 p.m., this competition particularly brings a new opportunity for the Class of 2013.

“I always look forward to which class is going to win,” Bennett said. “Never before have we had a class win every year that they competed, but this year, the seniors could make that happen.”

Based on last year’s success with the senior’s play “The Apple,” the current senior class has swept the awards in almost every category in the competition.

This year, they’re not letting up on the challenge.

For the first time, the senior class has two codirectors, seniors Skye Lindberg and Alexander Lash, who hope that working as a pair will The Class of 2013 won last year’s competition with “The Apple,” “Class Acts” continues on page 5

but this year’s directors, seniors Skye Lindberg and Alex Lash, hope for a productive year, even with differing opinions.

Do you think the new cell phone policy is beneficial?

“Yes, because you can get reliable information off the internet using your cell phone.”

— Nathanael Bennett freshman

“No, because if your teachers don’t allow you to use your phone even with the policy it’s pointless.”

—Daisia Kranwinkel sophomore

“No, because the only reason people want the policy is so their phones won’t get taken away.”

— Beverly Duran sophomore

“Yes, because you can use your phone in class.”

New policy, same rules

New cell phone and technology policy has little effect on classes

By Destiny gammon Editorials Editor This year, a new technology policy has been put in place that says phones and laptops can be used in class at the teacher’s discretion. This new phone policy is not new, at all.

In reality, this new policy was put in place by FCPS and allows students to use technology such as smart phones and laptops for educational use in classes.

The point of this new policy is to better a student’s learning environment by using technology to enhance the learning experience in each of their classes to help with their understanding of class content.

Although this new policy is supposed to be a change in all of our cases, most teachers don’t even accept it. At least five out of my eight teachers still say that if any phone is in sight or goes off in class, it will be confiscated for our parents to come get. Sounds a lot like last year’s rules to me, don’t you agree?

Even though this rule has forced some teachers into giving students permission to use technology in class, many teachers need to step into the 21st century because cellphones are an official part of students’ everyday lives.

This new policy isn’t much different than the rules that were set in place last year and years

before. Honestly, with laptops already available in most classes, most of us don’t even have a reason to take our phones out. On top of that, we can’t even check our phones in the hallways without getting slack from teachers that are standing over our shoulders. But, if the policy were to be successful, it would be a major advancement in our school lives.

What many of these overbearing staff members don’t understand is that the use of these cell phones in class is actually detrimental to some student’s understanding of the topics they are learning in that subject.

For me at least, I need alternative ways to understand the topics being taught at times. When you have to opportunity to take out your phone or computer, this widens the amount of sources available for learning.

Teachers should love to see students utilizing their resources to learn.

It’s pretty hard to believe that any teacher would crush our curiosity of wanting to learn more. But it’s obvious why many teachers are not fans of this new policy.

Teachers believe that us students will spend our time on Facebook and Twitter while texting in between.

Why don’t I see that as a bad thing? Twitter and Facebook make teachers cringe but there are plenty of educational things that can be done with both resources. Not only can a student set a status reminding their friends to study for a test, but they can tweet helpful URLs to remind themselves and others of good resources to use for classwork.

Also, many students use their phones to update their calendars, take pictures of the homework and look up definitions for words they don’t know.

But here’s my biggest issue: registration. Considering that the

school has no liability if our phones or laptops get stolen, there should be no reason for students to be obligated to register their pieces of technology.

Half the student population knows how to hack the security system anyways; so many of us don’t even need to be entered into the school’s wifi system to get a connection.

Basically, this added step in order to use your phone not only ruins expensive Otterboxes with an ugly barcode, but also creates unnecessary hassle for both administrators and students alike.

Although FCPs has put BYOD or Bring Your Own Device in action, it is a waste of time until all teachers get on board with these new policies.

If teachers start allowing us to use our phones and laptops in class full force, all students will “like” this new technology policy.

Relax, it’s just a sandwich B

— Devin Hamlett sophomore

Sept. 19, 2012

PHOTOS TAKEN BY CHLOE LOVING, GRAPHIC BY DESTINY GAMMON

2

Editorials

arker’s arks Editorials Column

— Danney Davalos junior

“Yes, because you can use your phones to help you in class”

—Yassir Daonny senior

— Compiled by Richie Fruchterman

QUOTE COLLECTION

During this past summer, I noticed something that completely shocked me. The people of this country care too much about the stupid little things and not enough about what matters most.

Many of these unfortunate occasions have only intensified intolerance to others’ ideas. When a person spends so much time “shouting” their opinions on Facebook or in person, they shut down opportunities for conversation that might actually find some compromise or conclusion.

In late July, I received invitation after invitation on Facebook about joining events or groups to support or ban Chick-Fil-A. It all began when Chick-Fil-A owner, Dan Cathy, was asked by a reporter in an interview his beliefs on gay marriage. He told the reporter that he did not support gay marriage.

After Dan Cathy said that, the country went nuts. People everywhere were either completely against him or completely for him.

When asked about the subject, I said I was for neither side. The whole thing felt ridiculous.

I thought that way too much time and energy was spent on this topic, when there are so many other problems in the world like hunger, poverty, joblessness, that these people could give their time and money to help.

During this insane hullabaloo, I read an editorial in the Washington Post by Alexandra Petri. Her main slogan for her article was “judge the sandwich by the sandwich.” She was trying to show people that if they were so nit picky about what they consumed or bought, and only chose stuff that was created by people with the same views, then we would live the dullest lives ever.

GRAPHIC BY DESTINY GAMMON

By James Barker “Yes, because textbooks are now online so you can look them up on your cell phone.”

When the movie theater massacre occurred, many Americans were still focused on Dan Cathy’s opinion of homosexuality.

The amount of time wasted doing research about every single product we eat, wear, read, or use, and then trying to convince other people to do the same, would be a massive waste of time.

Here’s an example: In some Middle Eastern countries, from where the United States imports its oil, there are laws forbidding homosexuality, where breaking those laws frequently results in execution. So here’s a question for you: When you drive up to the local gas station, do you ask the service station attendant where the gasoline was imported from? And if he tells you the country and you learn it is one that kills homosexuals, do you drive away? Or just fill up your car?

Is it okay to support gay marriage or not to support it? Yes, of course it is. But should you shut down any opportunity for conversation about it, not listening to what other people have to say?

This could go for any topic: healthcare, abortion, religion, or even taxes. On both sides of many issues, people are too angry about what they believe and don’t even bother to listen to what others have to say.

Around the same time of this Chick-Fil-A

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 of the new cell phone policy?

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

Cell Phone Policy In your smartphone, scan the QR code to watch a video about student opinions of the new cell phone policy.

madness, James Homes killed 12 and wounded 58 during The Dark Knight Rises premier. A family friend of ours had a sister who was shot. She, amazingly, survived what her doctors thought was a fatal wound. I was part of a Facebook group that raised money to help pay for her medical expenses.

Even then, the Chick-Fil-A arguments continued, with more posts and comments than the Aurora shootings received.

It is absurd that this summer, people cared more about a chicken sandwich than for people who lost loved ones or now have physical or psychological injuries to live with for the rest of their lives because of the random violent act of one person.

I understand that many of you will never eat a Chick-Fil-A sandwich again, because you disagree with Mr. Cathy. That is your right. But let’s keep the dialog civil and set an example for the world that we can disagree, but not hate each other because we disagree. Let’s be grateful for the things we can agree on, and continue talking about the others.

It’s just a sandwich.

Staff Editors In Chief: Colleen Adenan Gwen Levey Managing Editor: Ngan Pham Editorials Editors: Destiny Gammon Omnia Saed News Editors: Dana Filipczyk Christine Tamir People Editors: Kate Grandchamp Carli Loeb Health Editors: Kylee Nisker Art Editors: Abby Barnes Carina Chu Annandale High School 4700 Medford Dr.

Annandale, Virginia 22003 email: theablast@gmail.com

Academics Editors: Molly Keck Berta Tarqui In-Depth Editors: K.L. Hoang Noah Fitzgerel International Editors: Joe Sehrer Shamaim Syed Photography Editors: Priya Adhikary Chloe Loving Lifestyles Editors: Gaby Camilli Megan Flynn Sports Xtra Editors: Ayah Oweis

Vol. 58 No.2 Sept. 19, 2012 fax: (703) 642-4299

Sports Editors: Jared Golub Betsy Kruse Entertainment Editors: Sarah Bergen Emily Blank Weekend Editors: Andrea Melendez Rowan Shartel Ad Manager: Stephanie Allshouse Circulation Manager: Hannah Carlson Copy Editors: Stephen Oakes Patricia Webb Web Editor: Rachel Wilson

Web Staff: Jared Lefbom Head Photographer: Olivia Lafferty Head Videographer: Nadia Elgendy Staff Writers: James Barker Yesenia Blount Bayley Brill Thien Mai Nuhami Mandefro Omar Haddou Nuhami Erin Johnson Megan Ryan Mark Slough Shira Steinberg Alec Stewart Johnathan Telda

Sandra Webb Elizabeth Zernick

Photographers: Melanie Bennett Katherine Bonilla Daniel Hiwot Tiffany Huynh Erin Johnson Habib Khalid Videographers: Medhane Berihun Richie Fruchterman Hiwot Daniel Alejandra Iriarte Laelle Mekonen Sarah Metzel Rahel Tecle Adviser: Alan Weintraut

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.

EDITORIALS

Sept. 19, 2012

3 Trending Topics

Atom Time Reinstated Atom Time has officially begun during W4 classes for AHS students

Robert Griffin III, the second overall draft pick in the NFL, was named the NFC’s offensive player after the first week of the NFL season and is currently on the cover of Sports Illustrated.

Is RGIII over-hyped?

Robert Griffin III is in fact, overhyped.

He may have won the Heisman trophy in his college career, but no matter what, he is still a rookie.

Griffin III has spent a grand total of two games in the NFL. Despite his high amount of time spent on the field, we can’t forget that he is still a newbie.

Although Griffin, or RGIII, is definitely living up to fan’s expectations, there are players who have been in the NFL longer than he’s been alive. In reality, even though Griffin has the physical skill of a great quarterback, it takes years to attain the mindset necessary to be a successful athlete in the NFL. Let’s not forget the Redskins and their fan base have also been in search of a better team ever since Dan Snyder gained ownership of the team.

Now that Mike Shanahan is the head coach, it seems that the Redskins’ reputation has been slowly climbing to a more positive level.

Has anyone ever considered that it may not be Griffin himself that is astounding, but instead the bad history with Redskins team that is making him seem that way?

The Redskins have started their season strong, but there is definitely more than one player running across the field making touchdowns and interceptions.

Right now, the team is just trying to find a sense of leadership and they have taken RGII and put him on this pedestal in hopes of keeping up the attention they crave. And how have

they done this? Media.

The Washington Redskins are the second richest team in the NFL leaving them with tons of endorsement money to spend in order to gain a hopeful light on their team and it’s players.

From shirts to magazine covers, the Redskins have shoved Robert Griffin III in everyone’s faces in hopes of emphasizing that a savior has finally found a team that is in need of a makeover.

It’s wrong to say that Griffin III is not a fantastic player and an even better addition to the Washington Redskins team, but it’s obvious that Snyder has used Griffin III’s face and skill to make the team seem amazing.

In Griffin III’s favor though, none of this hype was his choosing. In fact, RGIII is one of the most humble rookies that the NFL has seen in awhile and all of this media attention is at the fault of the people in charge of publicity because all Griffin III does is stand and look good while people take his pictures and write news stories about him.

RGIII is an accomplished football player.

In fact, I do believe he will greatly help the Redskins better their football season. But with all this hype, if something bad were to happen to this star rookie, the Redskins team could possibly become completely unraveled and end instantly until their 22- year old quarterback were to return, or at least it seems that way.

—Destiny Gammon, Editorials Editor

Over-hyped, overrated, and overexposed; whatever you want to call it doesn’t really matter. RGIII is without a doubt the hero of the Redskins team.

Sure, Griffin has amassed a staggering amount of fame. From his first day in the Redskins Ashburn training camp and the additional media attention only amplifying afterwards, but it’s all justified.

I mean, I can understand someone getting angry at the incessant sponsorship ads, and newspaper covers and most recently Sports Illustrated cover of the Rookie quarterback. . .had he not deserved it.

The NFC offensive player of the week after his first debut in a NFL game, Griffin completed 19 of 26 passes for 320 yards. With two touchdowns and no interceptions, Griffin easily took reign as the first rookie quarterback to win as the player of the week for Week 1 of the NFL, as well as becoming the first rookie quarterback to throw for at least 300 yards and win a season opener.

And Sunday’s game, he rushed for two touchdowns of D.C.’s four.

A one hit wonder isn’t really a question. His great games during the preseason and his debut rookie game only solidified his overwhelming presence on the field. Yes, we don’t know what can happen the next couple games, but Redskins fans should fear the possibility of RGIII getting injured more than his game fizzling.

With a team that was in one of

the most aggravating game slumps for the past few years, and without a semi-skilled quarterback (and one that had extreme aiming difficulties for a quarterback), it can’t be doubted that Griffin’s presence not only brought home hope to Skins fans but the team players themselves. RGIII’s growing fame has put the Redskins back in the contention spotlight and finally gave our team a quarterback, and an amazing one at that.

Yes, there’s pressure on not only Griffin but the team as a whole, but pressure is what make athletes fueled to work harder, and to win games. And with pressure there’s a mass of fans there supporting their team. Skins fans have come in flocks to see their hit quarterback and successful team, at either practices or games. Last year, we were so commonly used to seeing empty stands at games, and many of us, although we may not admit it, found ourselves changing the channel half way most games. But, this year, we’re excited to finally support a team ready to win, a team with the capabilities to win.

Quarterbacks are accustomed to the limelight, lets face it, they’re the most publicized players on a team.

But, in order to gain recognition they have to be good-VERY good, and let’s not forget that RGIII is a rookie starting quarterback. It can’t be debated that RGIII isn’t talented, and his games and performances have embodied that. The Redskins are energized and ready to win this year and Robert Griffin III is right there driving them to do just that.

—Omnia Saed, Editorials Editors

Why we need Michelle Obama The first lady is the perfect role model for our generation

BY OMNIA SAED Editorials Editor She took the stage with the utmost confidence, even with the hundreds of eyes glued to her every movement and the pressure looming behind her.

I couldn’t help but gape in awe as Michelle Obama took to the podium in the recent Democratic National Convention. No matter your political affiliation, there’s no doubt First Lady Michelle Obama is the epitome of class and feminism.

I’m a 16-year-old high school junior, who can get easily distracted by entertainment and immersed in pop culture gossip. And yes, I’m a Justin Bieber fan. Call me the stereotypical teenager. Like most, although we won’t ever admit it, I secretly dream to become a celebrity, because in all honesty, what can be better? A generation in which Rihanna and Nicki Minaj are the

faces I’m surrounded by, I can’t help but find myself compelled to look up to them.

But looking at Michelle Obama at the convention, things begged to differ. As my eyes glued to her enthusiasm and her emotion in her speech, I found myself in an odd spot. A little voice in my head was jealous. Jealous because she was so powerful to the extent that she was able to compel a room of hundreds of people to attentively listen to her every word. Jealous because she is the true embodiment of female independence. Her husband is the President of the United States, and yet she reigns in popularity, fighting for issues on her own, finding ways

to solve them on her own. Whether it’s her Let’s Move! campaign, that inspires kids to become active and maintain healthy lifestyles in order to suppress growing obesity rates or her veterans initiatives such as the creation of the Joining Forces Project which helps veterans find employment after returning from deployment, she’s created a sense of change, created entirely on her own.

I was jealous because Michelle Obama is an intelligent and ingenious Ivy League graduate who did it on her own. Her story so much like that of my own. And she wasn’t one of the few lucky performers or actors or singers who found her big break before high school. No, she’s the product of what everyone tries to instill in us but fails to; the outcome of a hard working kid who studied and went to college determined to succeed.

And at that moment I realized, I wanted to be her or anything that came close to it. With the screams and chants of her name interrupting her speech every few words you could feel, see and hear the power she illuminated, and most importantly the respect the crowd had for her.

Her words were eloquently spoken without hesitation. Yes, Rihanna’s music is great, and Nicki Minaj’s raps can easily get stuck in you’re head, but, they aren’t the world’s greatest role models. It’s sad that the only ones who play a factor in our society today, especially for teenagers, are the faces in People magazine and TMZ – half of which dropped out after high school giving millions of teenagers the false hope that they can become like them too- because after all they have the money and the fame.

But, I’m proud, ecstatic, really that there are also people who get recognized because they succeeded educationally, because they help out for the common good and you know what, fashion icons too. After her speech at the DNC, I couldn’t help but smile seeing all of the girls tweeting about her. Sure a few were about her outfit (which was gorgeous!) but a few handful I think realized the importance of her iconic status.

She was a different kind of role model, a different kind of dream, that slowly made a place in their minds.

A women that will one day hopefully inspire us to do the exact same thing.

Hey, wait, Todd Akin is ‘Akin’ us crazy too

BY NADIA ELGENDY Special Columnists When the word republican came to mind, I used to think of fat-cat CEOs and greedy, rich housewives.

Although I had the least bit of interest in politics, I was convinced by liberal my parents that Republicans were against everyone with a lessthan-disposable income.

Then, I took a government class last year with Mrs. Lindsay Zurawski, and realized that politics isn’t the conniving game that people had made it out to be. I learned about modern

issues and basic economics, and had an epiphany: I was a conservative.

I started to discuss politics with some other republicans and got the same vibe that most people get from conservatives: ignorance. Even though these people carry the same label that I do, they seemed like they were unaware of the world outside their own.

They had no constitutional basis for their opinions, such as being against gay rights because they thought it was weird, or supporting gun control because they love to hunt.

Luckily, my co-workers at the

Romney campaign, who are mostly high school and college students, are the exact opposite. They’ve portrayed a new kind a republican, a kind that justifies their economic and social

stance.

However, this new “species” of republican isn’t well known. Especially with the ignorant comments of Todd Akin about a woman’s body “shutting down rape”, it gives republicans a reputation that we’re all bigots who don’t understand the basic understanding of government or society, which is the exact reason the Romney campaign released a statement against Akin’s comments.

Republicans are constantly being targeted by the liberal media, and it’s a very, very incorrect depiction.

Protest sweep Middle East U.S. ambassador to Libya, Christopher Stevens was killed in an envoy in Libya marking the first death in an American envoy abroad in more than twenty years.

Widespread violence has erupted across the middle East against a movie negatively portraying the Islamic prophet Mohammed.

Football Season Opener Football season has officially begun for the Annandale Atoms, as they have won their debut home game with a score of 32-27 against J.E.B. Stuart HS.

CPS Teachers Strike Chicago Public Schools have decided to continue their strike for the next week. Meaning that CPS students will not be going to school for more than 10 days.

Garden adds variety School members will be planting winter crops in the AHS garden throughout this week.

Parking Problems Annandale parking has been the topic of discussion for many students and faculty due to its disorganization.

Celebrity Stereotypes In your smartphone, scan the QR code to read an article about the representations made about our celebrities.

4

News

AHS organizations begin

News Briefs

Chorus Car Wash

On Saturday, Sept. 22, the Choral Department will have a car wash at Ravensworth Sunoco on Braddock Road from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Carwashes are by donation.

Chorus Boosters Meeting

Parents of students in chorus are invited to attend the chorus boosters meeting on Sept. 26, at 7:30 p.m. in the chorus room.

Science National Honor Society Interest Meeting Science National Honor Society (SNHS) will hold its first interest meeting on Sept. 26, where applications will be available to fill out.

National English Honor Society Applications due National English Honor Society applications are due on Oct. 5, to either Julia Hanneman in room 263 or Catherine Gibson in room 267.

Colorful flyers across hallways and multiple announcements on the Channel six news have alerted the AHS student body to the annual selection of clubs and after-school activities.

With over ten honor societies and almost 50 clubs and organizations, AHS students have a wide range of afterschool activities to choose from.

“AHS has a really great selection,” administrative assistant Jennifer Sharp said. “We offer a variety of things from academics, to fun, to sports.”

AHS has clubs that have been around for years, and have become parts of the school itself. From “It’s Academic!” (the website boasts that it is “the longestrunning television quiz show in the world”) to STAND (the Student AntiGenocide Coalition), the only issue students may run into is a lack of time to join all of the clubs.

“It’s Academic!,” led by history teachers Meghan Saladino and Kathlyn Berry, holds meetings once a week after school on Fridays, along with scrimmages and TV appearances that are to be determined.

Senior Thien Mai, member of “It’s Academic!,” explains, “our sponsors evaluate the possible candidates through the practices each week, and then they decide who should represent the school

Senior Daniel Critchfield, co-president of STAND (the Student Anti-Genocide Coalition), speaks at the STAND interest meeting on Sept. 17 after school in Katie Gould’s class room.

on TV.” If students would like to explore avenues that aren’t academic in nature, such as volunteering or helping the environment, organizations such as Key Club and Green Atoms both invite members to attend interest meetings, held on Oct. 1, and Sept. 27 respectively to join their ranks.

In addition to clubs, there are several honor societies for students to choose from. The specific requirements for each

honor society vary, but for the most part, students must keep up an overall GPA of 3.0, and a 3.5 in the subject of the honor society (for example, a 3.5 in English for National English Honor Society.

Senior Hung Truong, president of Science National Honor Society (SNHS), invites all students “taking and committed to at least one IB science” to attend the interest meeting on Sept. 26, when applications will be available. ”We do a lot of fundraisers, so it’s not a

Largest class in history starts senior year Class of 2013 makes changes to Prom, reflects on previous three years

Math Honor Society applications are due on Oct. 5 to either Roberto Obando in room 74 or Hee Chang Choi in room 205.

COURTESY OF HENVER PALMA

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

By Christne Tamir and Dana Filipczyk News Editors The biggest class in AHS history will be graduating this year. With over 650 students in the class of 2013, both the class sponsor and the class officers have worked to accommodate the large class size.

Graduating class activities, such as Prom, are expensive and require huge amounts of preparation and fundraisers, which can be overwhelming or frustrating.

However, the class officers have been organized since their freshman year.

“A lot of [classes] don’t realize that it’s going to happen right around the corner,” Class of 2013 sponsor Lindsay Zivney said. “They think ‘oh we’ve got four more years.’ We started fundraising right out of the gate.”

Zivney says that the group of officers that she has worked with for the past three years have been incredibly organized and she has learned a lot about them in the process.

“Well, we’ve had most of the executive board members for four years, which is amazing because I’ve really got to know them on a really personal level,” Zivney said. “[I’ve known] each one of them since freshman year; we kind of established a routine, so we meet once or twice a month.”

During those meetings, the future fundraisers, such as bake sales, are decided on. Senior class president Noah Fitzgerel organized bake sales once every two weeks in order to make as much money as possible for the class’ account.

“Our biggest fundraisers have always been the bake sales,” Fitzgerel said. “Though they’re not necessarily creative, [we’ve had] them every two weeks for the past two years, and we make enough money at a consistent rate.”

Since the seniors are the biggest class in the history

CHRISTINE TAMIR

Math Honor Society Applications due

by Sandra Webb

By Christine Tamir News Editor

CHRISTINE TAMIR

Students who are registering their personal electronic devices can register in the cafeteria before and after school on Sept. 18 and Sept. 20. All students should have completed forms (found on the AHS website) and device(s) with them.

Preview a story about how the fall football season kickstarts school spirit

typical [honor] society where you just do plain community service.” Truong said.

“Be prepared to save lives.”

The SNHS holds many fundraisers each year, such as barbecues, bake sales, movie nights and the annual ‘guy auction,’ which are “geared towards the American Cancer Society.” ‘Pennies for Patients,’ another SNHS fundraiser, raises money for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society.

SNHS currently has five members because many have graduated, but their target size is around 20 members.

NEHS also is looking for driven students who are prepared to make a commitment to the honor society and complete eight service points by the end of the year.

“Anyone who is involved in their English classes and is interested in being recognized as a student that goes beyond expectations inside and outside of the classroom is invited to join,” senior co-president Abby Barnes said.

The range of clubs and organizations at AHS encompass the whole of students’ interests. However, if you do not find a club that you were hoping to join in the list on page 15 of the agenda, you are always welcome to create a club by going to the activities office in the jock lobby.

“If you don’t find something that you like, and if you have any ideas, you can always come here, and you can apply to create your own club,” Sharp said. “There is a process that we have in place. It’s not that difficult; you get a sponsor, you get people that are interested in it, make a constitution and make sure that it’s not within the grid that we already have.”

Students have large selection of activities

Register an electronic device

School Spirit heightens

Sept. 19, 2012

The C-train that was painted by the Class of 2013 during the summer by the class officers and around 20 fellow seniors.

of AHS, it is expected that the class officers would have to fundraise more than previous classes, which isn’t the case.

“It’s not necessarily the size of the class that has affected how we fundraise, but instead the socioeconomic demographic of our class, A large majority of the members of our class do not have the ability to purchase a large volume of merchandise and different things. It has required us to think outside the box,” Fitzgerel said.

Bake sales, coupled with restaurant fundraisers, and the sale of class merchandise such as lanyards, have raised enough money for Prom, leaving the class well-prepared for May. “I think it’s going to be amazing; and the kids are so excited because it’s somewhere different - it’s not at the

Waterford,” Zivney said. “They’re going to be forming a Prom committee which will take on a lot of tasks such as decorations and entertainment. Maybe they’ll do a dessert table, or pick out foods. I paid the deposit yesterday [Sept. 11], I went and toured the space, and it’s going to be awesome.”

The new venue will be announced at the class meeting today, Sept. 19, by the senior class officers.

Fellow seniors eagerly anticipate the announcement, with the faith in their officers that Prom will exceed all explectations.

“The officers have been amazing,” senior Rebecca Burke said. “They’re the best, they’ve gotten everything done that they need to, and they’ve gone above and beyond, and I’m so proud of them.”

Class of 2016 begins this year’s elections Distribution of parking passes

by Jonathan Tedla Read a story about students recieving parking permits, and who recieved the most coveted space- spot 63.

Elections to be held today, Sept.

19 between 12 candidates for 5 positions

Rosh Hashanah On your smartphone, scan the above code using the application “QR Code” to view a story about the the Jewish holiday and how AHS students celebrate it.

As we begin a new year, the freshman class of 2016 prepare for their class elections. Leadership students have passed out “Intent to Run” packets, which have been turned in.

“Leadership students have gone to classes to inform and encourage students about the elections,” leadership teacher Stephanie Harmony said.

Now that the students are informed, they can start to write speeches about how they believe they will make a difference.

Freshman Nathanael Bennett is one of the candidates this year. “I’m doing freshman elections this year because I feel that I can make the school a better place for freshmen,” Bennett said.

MELANIE BENNETT

By Melanie Bennett and Christine Tamir Staff Writer and News Editor

Freshman Nathanel Bennett, who is running for class president, fills out the Election packet which was due on Sept. 11. Elections will be held today during the W4 block.

Bennett believes that he has great discipline, and will be an asset to the freshman class. He is one of the many freshman candidates who thinks he can change AHS for the better, beginning with increasing the amount

of fundraisers to raise money for Prom, and making them more enjoyable.

Freshman Kevin Folli, who is also one of the candidates this year, also wants to make more money for the class’ Prom in four years.

“I believe that I will be a good leader because I have good leadership qualities such as responsibility and respect for my peers,” Folli said.

Competition will be fierce, as there are more applicants than positions, and no shortage of students willing to run.

In past years, there have been eight freshmen willing to run. This year, that number has increased to 12.

“I have never had such a big group of enthusiastic freshman before,” Harmony said. “They’re going to be rock stars.”

However, each of the students is expected to exemplify true AHS spirit, and accurately represent the class of 2016. “[We’re looking for] a student that’s willing to serve their class, and willing to represent all the interests of their class,” Harmony said. “Not just their immediate peer group.”

Since the elected class officers will be adjusting to their new responsibilities, they are not expected to have everything figured out right away.

“Freshman year is to establish protocol, how often you’re going to meet and to start setting goals for years to come,” Harmony said.

5

News

A Blast

the

Sept. 19, 2012

Students use hookah often Students share their personal experiences substance was originally used for relaxation, patience, and discipline, but now is commonly used for social gatherings at various bars found around different areas in the country. Many of these hookah bars lie right in the Northern Virginia and D.C. area, though there are many that fail to card students for the legal age of 18 to smoke it.

“I first started smoking hookah during my sophomore year in high school,” senior Julia Copenhaver said. “I would go with some friends on the weekend to select hookah bars that we knew wouldn’t ID us. After I turned 18, I decided to invest in my own personal ‘mini-hookah’ because it’s much more convenient and a lot cheaper in the long run in comparison to pricey hookah bars.”

Like Copenhaver, most students tend to smoke the hookah with friends either at a specialized bar or at parties with homemade pipes. Though the hookah’s popularity has increased among student social life, awareness of the downsides of the substance has not.

According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDCP), while many hookah smokers may consider the substance less harmful than smoking cigarettes, smoking with hookah causes many of the same health risks as cigarettes, such as oral cancer, lung cancer, stomach cancer, cancer of the esophagus, reduced lung function and decreased fertility.

The CDCP even goes on to add that in many cases, smoking hookah can be even more dangerous than smoking cigarettes, for the smoke is inhaled longer, thus making more toxins enter the body in larger quantities. As it is commonly used in group settings, the mouthpiece of the hookah is more likely to hold

PHOTO ILLUSTRATION BY KYLEE NISKER AND NGAN PHAM

“Hookah” continued from page 1

Senior Julia Copenhaver has been smoking hookah since her sophomore year.

many germs and diseases passed along from person to person as the pipe is used.

“Second-hand smoking from hookahs is worse than cigarettes or other tobacco substances,” health teacher

Peggy Capehart said. “I’ve been to hookah bars for dinner, and the second-hand smoke is just too much to handle in there.”

“I usually [smoke hookah] like every month or every few months,” junior Lailumah Faisal said. “My sisters, who are a few years older than me, started going to hookah bars, and then eventually they got one and so we all started smoking it during special occasions—like whenever we had friends over or when we’d do bonfires or stuff like that.”

The origins of the hookah can be traced back nearly a millennia ago to the north western provinces of India along the border of Pakistan and was originally made with only one flavor. Today, there are nearly nine flavors that are used, some of them including watermelon and chocolate mint. Due to AHS’s diverse student population, the surge of participation in hookah-related activities can be directly related to the cultural backgrounds of students.

Unlike many students who started smoking hookah solely for social reasons, senior Brody El-Achi began using it originally for these cultural purposes.“The first time I smoked [hookah] was in Lebanon because it is more socially acceptable over there,” El-Achi said.

“It’s just a fun thing to do every now and then.”

Even knowing the risks that comes with smoking, several students still practice it; a lot of them priding themselves on their efforts to master the “tricks” of smoking hookah.

“I find it very relaxing and it’s fun to learn how to do tricks with the smoke,” Copenhaver said.

Due to the overall lack of student awareness, many health teachers believe that smoking hookah should be added to the health class curriculum and should be taught jointly with the risks of other tobacco-based products. “[The risks of smoking hookah] should definitely be taught in health class,” Capehart said. “I really do [believe that].”

Theater class battle continues on Classes ready for the first theater production of the new school year “Class Acts” continued from page 1

strengthen the opportunity for another Class of 2013 win. Although, the dynamics of the relationship of having two directors working on one production could prove to be more of an ongoing argument during rehearsals rather than

a productive hour and a half. “[Having two directors] gives two points of views,” Lindberg said. “Even though I may not agree with Alex [Lash] all of the time, I still feel like we are going to direct a very good play for people to come see.”

Senior Eric Stavenjord is one of the many new faces in the competition this year, for this is one of the best turnouts for auditions that the classes have ever gotten.

“I feel that I will be a positive contribution to the cause for the seniors to win, even though I didn’t receive the main role I wanted,” Stavenjord said.

“But I am excited for the opportunity to win again with my class.”

An issue that typically comes up every year with the Class Acts competition is finding a play for each class to perform, since there are many one-act plays available.

“The play that we selected had a stronger plot line and more emotionally stronger characters than any of the others that were up for discussion,” Lash said. “We look forward to competition, because we haven’t just chosen a strong play, but also a strong cast.”

Underclassmen are also looking forward to this year’s event, especially since this is the first production put on for the theater department every year.

“It’s really a chance for each class to shine,” junior director Gabi Montes de

Oca said. “It’s so much fun to be with your class and put on a play that will give the audience just a taste of what to expect for the fall play and musical in the spring. Don’t count out the underclassmen—we’re prepared to win too!”

At the end of the night after the freshmen take the stage first with their play and the seniors close the night, trophies and medals are given out to those individuals and class who are vying for a total of six possible awards, including ‘Best Play.’

“We want everyone to come see this competition and cheer on their class,” Bennett said. “It is sure to be a fun night!”

Remember, only students who have a parking permit are allowed to park in the designated student spaces located on school grounds and Ossian Hall Park.

International Day of Peace

A human peace symbol will be formed on the football field from 9:30 to 10:20 a.m. on Sept. 21, also known as the International Day of Peace. Students, staff, and family members are invited to participate. The event is during ATOM Time, so only atoms in good standing may participate. The event is hosted by Peer Mediation.

Contact Kate Mounteer for more questions. The International Day of Peace is dedicated to the absence of violence and war, and is annually celebrated on Sept. 21. Visit internationaldayofpeace.org to find find out local events to participate in.

Key Club Interest Meeting

An interest meeting for Key Club will be held after school on Sept.

24, in Clausen Hall. Key Club is a community service club and all are welcome to join.

Yearbooks for the 2012-2013 school year are now on sale. Visit the AHS website for more details. They are currently $65. Get yours before the price goes up.

Young Republicans

The Young Republicans club will be meeting after school today in T-9.

All are welcome.

Hispanic Leadership Club

The first meeting for the Hispanic Leadership Club is on Sept. 26 in M-4. The club meets every other Wednesday from 2:15 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. All are welcome.

Opera

The opera Mozart’s Don Giovanni will be on Oct. 11 at 7 p.m. at the Kennedy Center. If interested, contact Ms. Tomisato as soon as possible. The fee to attend will be $15.

Students and teachers have been collaborating together and working hard to prepare the garden for the winter season.

“Working in a garden gives you an appreciation for the hard work that can be put into the food we eat,” Gould said.

“Having to pay workers, abusive labor, pollution and travel costs are some of the reasons why supporting and learning about a garden [addresses conventional agriculture and consumption].”

Ideally, those who would be interested

COURTESY OF WWW. WIKIPEDIA.ORG

Show procedures explained for game show “Wheel of Fortune” continued from page 1

Parking Permits

2013 Yearbooks

in being part of the SLP would be helping to harvest food to sell at school, planting more crops and making it more sustainable. Garden work is year-round and winter crop planting has already begun. “[If we can contribute to the garden], our appreciation of food can blossom.”

Mazzarella participates in Teacher Week for show

After learning that he would be filming for the show that Friday, Mazzarella, his parents and his brother flew out to Los Angeles to film for the show’s “Teacher Week.”

“I had to sign a really long contract saying that I wouldn’t cheat and that I won’t say how I do,” Mazzarella said. “All I can say is that the studio is very small and I was very underwhelmed by the wheel. It’s very small, but very heavy.”

The famous “wheel of fortune,” Mazzarella would go onto explain, is around 2,500 pounds and nearly

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 326A.

An interest meeting for joining the Green Atoms will be held after school on Sept. 27 in M-24. The Green Atoms in an environmental club and all are welcome to join.

K.L. HOANG

“Service Learning” continued from page 1

“I think it’s incredibly important for students and everyone else to be informed about human rights in their school and world and become leaders that create change,” Gould said.

Global reaching STTP’s highly successful curriculum is based off on addressing human rights like sex trafficking and indigenous peoples’ rights.

Fellows from WCL include former teachers and activists.

“My hope is that students will spread what they learn into other classrooms and their homes,” Gould said. “[Building off of what Robert F. Kennedy said], ripples of hope can turn into waves of change. I want my students to become a part of that.”

Gould is eager to establish a partnership between AHS, STTP and WCL after struggling against opposition to get the curriculum passed in Virginia.

“Many of our students come from places where human rights are an is-

sue,” Gould said. “The younger we take on roles as leaders and defenders, the better.”

Gould notes STAND and Just World as examples. “It’s a lifelong journey. To deny our students info about these topics is to deny them, their parents, and their heritage the respect they deserve.”

Gould has taken two years to create a suitable curriculum regarding human rights for state public schools. Similar curriculums have been adapted in New York and Chicago school systems. Last summer, Gould worked as a teacherconsultant for STTP to assist them in evaluating what works and what does not in a classroom.

“Service Learning gives them an opportunity to connect what they have learned in class with the work they’re doing to improve the community. If students can learn to understand the what, the why and the how, that is an accomplishment for everyone.”

An SLP supporting the community garden will also be the first of its kind at AHS. Members of any club or interested students can be involved.

Students and teachers who worked on the garden last year have been working together to set a schedule for training and maintenance and would like to obtain more help in sustaining and expanding the endeavor.

Senior Spirit Packs

Green Atoms Interest Meeting

Students learn to improve community Teacher discusses more opportunities for students

News Briefs

The actual wheel is around 2,500 pounds and is practically impossible to turn.

impossible to turn. Mazzarella would give it a fullstrengthened spin and it would only turn about twothirds of the way around, leading Mazzarella to believe that they may digitally enhance the number of turns the wheel goes around for television.

“Pat Sajak [the host of the show] was very nice,” Mazzarella said. “Vana White came in before we were about to film our show’s commercials and encouraged us saying that we’d do great. I only got to see them briefly, though.”

Filming turned into an all-day ordeal, but is an experience that Mazzarella couldn’t be more ecstatic about.

“I’m very happy with how I did, but if I walked away with no money then I would still be completely satisfied,” Mazzarella said. “Make sure you watch—it was a blast.”

Powder Puff Meeting

An interest meeting for the Powder Puff game is on Sept. 26 from 2:15 p.m. to 2:45 p.m. Junior and senior girls are welcome to come.

Collaboration Day

Collaboration day and the Freshman Transition Program are cancelled for today. The first Collaboration day will be held on Oct. 3.

Senior Student/Parent Night The Senior Student/Parent Night will be held in Clausen Hall at 7 p.m. on Oct. 4.

Interims

First quarter interims will be distributed on Oct. 5.

Wear Red and White Remember to wear red and white on Fridays in order to show your school spirit!

6

People

“My goal is to earn a B+ in each one of my classes.”

—Joseph Kurland freshman

“My goal is to do my homework and to get on my teachers good side.”

—Kayla Hylton sophomore

“My goal is to not procrastinate and to come to class on time.”

—Geoffrey McCoy junior

“I want to stop procrastinating and continue to have a great senior year.”

— Christine Nguyen senior –Compiled by Yesenia Blount

Celebrity Birthdays

Duly dedicated to WWE Students drawn to ‘fake sport’ express lifelong infatuation

TOP/BOTTOM RIGHT PHOTO COURTESY OF DANIEL CRITCHFIELD; BOTTOM LEFT PHOTO COURTESY OF KEVIN TRAN

What are some goals you have for the rest of this school year?

Sept. 19, 2012

By Kate Grandchamp People Editor The magazines under senior Daniel Critchfield’s bed aren’t those of a typical high school male.

C r i t c h f i e l d h a s 4 3 Wo r l d Wr e s t l i n g Entertainment magazines, along with 81 action figures and 18 posters.

At the young age of three, he began watching WWE on TV, much to the disapproval of his father.

“I became a really violent kid. Every day I would wrestle pillows, pretending that they were real WWE fighters,” Critchfield said.

With divorced parents, the issue of condoning Critchfield’s obsession was not agreed upon.

He gained the support of his mother and her new boyfriend, but struggled to get the same acceptance from his concerned father.

“Gifts became WWE action figures. The pile just kept growing and growing,” Critchfield said.

Critchfield, once dreaming of becoming an ambulance driver, switched focuses to being a WWE fighter.

“Even though my parents disagreed, I was independent [and continued to like WWE regardless]. It’s definitely symbolic of my childhood,” Critchfield said.

Although he was never teased for his vast collection, Critchfield began to shy away from WWE when he reached middle school, and his stepfather broke the news to him that WWE is not real wrestling.

“I was [floored]...every person has something they’re interested in... some kids collected stickers, I collected wrestling action figures,” Critchfield.

Senior Kevin Tran became invested in WWE at the young age of five, when his grandmother introduced him to the program.

“For the next [five] years I would get mad at anyone who said it was fake,” Tran said.

As Critchfield matured, he gained perspective, and began looking at the entertainment aspect of WWE, rather than regretting a commitment to a non-athletic, spectator sport.

“To the people who look down upon WWE, look at movies, look at TV. The fighting scenes in action movies-- it’s the same thing,” Critchfield said.

Acknowledging that WWE is classified as sports entertainment, Tran, too maintained an active interest in World, discussing matches with fellow classmates in middle school. He even went so far as to join the AHS Grappling Atoms his freshman year of high school, in order to be more like his idol, The Rock.

“I was under the illusion that it would be like

(Top) A young senior Daniel Critchfield shares his favorite pass time with a few friends who like WWE action figures as well. (Above right) Critchfield poses with two faux championship belts. (Above left) Senior Kevin Tran shows his love for WWE, even as a high school student.

on TV, so it was semi-shocking,” Tran said.

Although he later dropped the sport because of the large time commitment required, Tran placed third in the district and grew to respect both versions of wrestling, theatrical and athletic.

“Without the storytelling it’s just two naked guys wrestling,” Tran said.

Critchfield and Tran are good friends and frequently discuss the plotlines of WWE, but both admit to having lost interest overall. At the peak of his interest, Critchfield attended WWE conventions in Washington, DC with his older brother, mother and step dad, but his commitment began to wane after middle school.

“As a kid, if [WWE] was on, I would drop everything just to watch it. Now I only watch it periodically,” Critchfield said.

Each action figure in his collection is worth at least $10, but Critchfield has no plans of selling.

“That’s memories right there. That memory of my childhood is still alive in me,” Critchfield said.

Tran, whose childhood ambition of wanting to become a pro wrestler was put aside when he found what he feels to be his calling, acting, he says he owes it all to WWE. “It’s fair to say I’m a good actor because of WWE. When they’d cut to a promo in front of a live audience, I got their swag,” Tran said.

Though he calls The Undertaker “indomitable” and the Divas (female wrestlers) “hot,” Critchfield acknowledges the importance of WWE in his life.

“Your childhood isn’t that long, hold on to it,” Critchfield said.

Alumni Postcard: Tony Tran

September 18 Lance Armstrong 19 Kevin Zegers 20 Gary Cole

21 Nicole Richie 22 Tom Felton 23 Mary Kay Place 24 Kimberely Nixon 25 Will Smith 26 Kent McCord 27 Avril Lavigne 28 Hilary Duff 29 Mackenzie Crook 30 T-Pain

41 28 56 31 25 65 27 44 70 28 25 40 27

What college do you attend?

George Mason University.

Who were your favorite teachers at AHS? Ms. Richardson and Mr. Choi.

What are you majoring in?

Computer engineering.

What is your favorite memory from AHS? Participating in the senior stampede.

When did you graduate from AHS? I graduated in 2011.

What was your favorite subject at AHS? My favorite subject was definitely math.

What activities were you involved in at AHS? Cross country, Spanish honor society, math honor society, national honor society, and red cross.

October 1 Julie Andrews 2 Kelly Ripa 3 Seann William Scott 4 Alicia Silverstone 5 Jesse Eisenberg 6 Jeremy Sisto 7 Simon Cowell 8 Nick Cannon

77 42 36 36 29 38 53 32

Who am I? • This will be my third year teaching at AHS. • I attended George Mason University.

• I majored in Physical Education and Health with a minor in dance.

• In my spare time I coach.

• I listen to everything but country. Jack’s Mannequin is my favorite band.

• I have traveled to Australia for two weeks this summer.

• My birthday is February 8.

• The sports I have participated in include cheerleading, dance and flag football.

• My favorite TV show is Dexter and Big Brother • An interesting fact about me is that I play co-ed flag football.

Student Spotlight: Fatou Niang On your smartphone, scan this code using the application “QR Code” to see a student spotlight of sophomore Fatou Niang.

What was your proudest moment while attending high school?

My proudest moment was when I found out that I was accepted to the colleges that I wanted to go to.

What is your current job?

A web developer.

• My favorite part of working in a school is that I get to learn from the kids. I love hearing about all the cool things they do and have done in life.

• My motto is: “Fake it till you make it” -Mike Minery.

• This is my first year teaching at AHS. • I attended Heidelberg University.

• I got my Bachelors of Science in Business Administration.

• In my spare time, I like to play basketball, work out, listen to music, do community service and play video games.

• I listen to all types of music except classical.

• I have traveled to Disney World five times and once to Disney Land.

• My birthday is June 25.

• The sports I have participated in include football, basketball, baseball, softball and volleyball.

• My favorite thing to watch is any sporting event on TV. • My favorite part of working in a school is inspiring the students.

• My motto is: “Failing to prepare is preparing to fail” -John Wooden.

• My favorite stores are Express and Men’s Warehouse.

• My favorite store is Gossip.

–Compiled by Carli Loeb

To find out who these teachers are, visit www.thea-blast.org/category/student-life/people/

7

Health

Sept. 19, 2012

Health risks of tobacco

How harmful is tobacco on one’s health?

CIGARETTES

Many students are not aware of the negative effects associated with the use of tobacco

Very

77%

Somewhat

16.4%

Not

6.6%

CHEWING TOBACCO

60% Very

By Kylee Nisker Health Editor

OLIVIA LAFFERTY

Being one of the most easily accessible drugs to all ages, tobacco products do not always appear to be harmful to one’s health. When in reality, they are responsible for more deaths than alcohol, car accidents, illegal drugs, murders and suicides combined.

According to an in-school survey, almost 68 percent of students claimed to have not used any tobacco based product within the past month.

Tobacco use is known to cause some of the most feared and costly diseases, which affects the body in almost every way. There are An AHS student shares his large and significantly diverse collection of used chewing tobacco cans as well as the lids of used ones. many different ways to ingest variations of tobacco including oral to malfunction and in some cases the drug and the addiction to CIGARETTES nicotine in these products happens The addiction rate of smoking cancers, gum disease, tooth loss, and harm the user. very quickly. cigarettes is higher than those of an increased risk of lung and heart SECOND HAND SMOKE alcohol, marijuana or even cocaine. disease.

Exposure to secondhand smoke, SMOKELESS Marketing techniques often Many health risks come with this The use of smokeless tobacco, form of tobacco including bad breath, imply that cigar use is an example breathing in smoke from a burning such as chewing tobacco or snuff, is increased blood pressure, respiratory of a luxurious and prosperous way cigarette or other method after not considered a healthy alternative problems, reduced immune function, of living even though they do not someone has exhaled it, is considered to smoking, or any other form of tooth decay, gum disease and pre- mention they contain the same toxic almost as poisonous as being the one tobacco. Consistent use of smokeless cancerous gene mutations. and carcinogenic ingredients found who is actually smoking. Even brief contact with this kind of smoke can tobacco leads to oral cancer, gum After surveying many students, in cigarettes. be harmful to health. disease and even nicotine addiction the majority ranked cigarettes the ELECTRONIC CIGARETTES Parents who smoke around young over an extended period of time. number one most harmful form of This alternative to regular children are making them highly When several AHS students tobacco. were asked about their dipping Starting this month, the FDA cigarettes has been marketed susceptible to short and long-term habits, they declined to give their is required to include graphic with the unsubstantiated claim illnesses. Ear infections, respiratory names in fear of coaches and warnings on the front and back that they contain less damaging problems as well as lung and throat teachers finding out. This proves of all cigarette packs sold in the chemicals and can help smokers kick cancers are measured from even the awareness of the health risks United States as well as 20 percent their addiction. The United States a short amount of inhaling second Food and Drug Administration hand smoke. Those who have never and consequences are present, but of advertisements is regulating the sales of these smoked can still experience these that does not alter their decision to products until further evaluation effects including heart diseases and continue these choices.

CIGARS put them at a higher risk of heart Marketing companies target the The three most popular forms of can be done.

As of now, electronic cigarettes attack. youth through advertisements at cigars in the United States are large The use of any of these products sporting events where mostly males cigars, cigarillos and little cigars, still contain the same addictive pick the habit up at a young age which generally all contain the same substance found in all other tobacco starting at a young age increases due to the convenience of using the chemicals that can permanently products, nicotine. Not only does this the chance of becoming addicted and product where smoking is prohibited. damage one’s health. Health effects chemical pose a health threat, the experiencing the harmful effects at of cigars are similar to those of other electronic device has been known any point later in life.

32.8% Somewhat 7.2%

Not

Very 66.8%

CIGAR

Somewhat Not

24.4% 8.8%

HOOKAH

47.6% Very 35.5% Somewhat 16.9% Not ELECTRONIC CIGARETTES

Very

39.6%

Somewhat Not

36%

24.4%

At what age did you first start using tobacco?

Which form of tobacco do you consider the most harmful to the body?

How often do you use tobacco based products?

“Cigarettes because I think they contain the most nicotine.”

—Ally Van Balen sophomore

“Chewing tobacco because there is no filter at all so it goes straight into your body.”

—Noah Wolfenstein junior

“Chewing because it makes your teeth turn yellow, your breath stink and it causes cancer.

That’s a turn off.”

—Tricia Liller junior

“Cigars because they’re big and pathetic.”

—Naol Bayisa freshman

“Cigarettes because it goes directly into your lungs.”

“Hookah because it has more tobacco than a cigarette.”

—Michael Hennessey

—Christina

senior

Uglietta senior

—Compiled by Stephanie Allshouse

Q & A: health teacher shares dangers

Are you exposed to secondhand smoke at home?

Gabriel Romano talks about the risks and side effects of using tobacco based products What form of tobacco use is most popular among teenagers?

“The biggest problem with teenagers is not smokeless tobacco.

They like to smoke cigarettes, so that’s the problem with teenagers.

Smokeless tobacco is usually adults, athletes that like to use it just kind of pass time. It used to be very popular for baseball players to do that when they would sit in the dugout and just chew tobacco.”

Is smokeless tobacco any safer than regular tobacco?

“No, no it’s not. They’re both are extremely harmful, don’t start either way.”

Why do people start smoking tobacco?

“In my class when we talk about tobacco. I always ask,’why did you start in the first place?’ Most people that start say they tried to cope with stress, and that’s their way of dealing with stress. Teenagers for the most part get influenced by their friends. So they start that way, but a lot of adults say they continue to smoke although they know it’s harmful. They continue to smoke because that’s their way of coping with stress. I don’t know what type of research out there indicates that cigarettes help you kill stress. People say, if they didn’t smoke cigarettes they’d be drinking alcohol or they’d be eating too much food and gaining weight, giving all types of excuses. It’s not really a good habit to start.”

What are some of the side effects of smoking or chewing smokeless tobacco?

“Of course, as you know, tobacco causes cancer. Smokeless tobacco, the stuff that you chew, can cause cancer of the mouth and I have lots of pictures I can show you. It’s pretty nasty. And then nicotine and all the other chemicals in regular tobacco that people smoke are very harmful, of course. I mean, I can give you a list of chemicals of over 200 chemicals in cigarettes alone that are called or considered carcinogenscancer causing agents. The bottom line is smoking cigarettes are extremely harmful to your health.”

What are some of the more visible physical effects?

500 surveys were distributed, 494 were returned and counted on Sept.

13 during W4 classes. 104 freshmen, 126 sophomores, 105 juniors and 159 seniors completed the survey.

“Wrinkled skin, yellow teeth, and yellow nails. You look a lot older and of course physical coughing a lot. And this is not something that you’ll see but a lot of people say that when you kiss a smoker, it’s like kissing an ash tray. It’s that nasty. If you’re allergic, it’s like coughing up a storm.”

What would you say to someone who uses tobacco or is considering trying tobacco?

“Bad idea. Just a bad idea. The long term effects of smoking are so bad.

I can just list a whole bunch of disease besides lung cancer, bronchitis, emphysema, asthma... The stuff that you’re going to get over your life time as a smoker, you’ll be going to the doctor quite often. You may not die right away, but you’re going to have many health issuers.”

—Compiled by Sandra Webb and Laelle Mekonnen

Smokeless tobacco use in the MLB On your smartphone, scan this code above using the application “QR Code” to view a story about how common the use of smokeless tobacco is in Major League Baseball.

8

Arts “It didn’t really feel like you were doing work. It just kind of felt like you were having fun and just hanging out with your friends. You got to put on a show for everyone.” ­ Amber — Hines sophomore

“It was a ton of fun, the people in it, and the director was amazing.”

—Bee Coaquira sophomore “We definitely formed a little family.

It’s a much smaller cast and everyone knows each other.”

—­Harris Fitzgerel senior “I got to hang out with people that like to do what I like do.

It was just fun to get to know other people.”

—Katerina Magiafas senior

A musical addition to AHS New orchestra teacher has bright plans for the future

By Abby barnes Arts Editor AHS has hired another passionate musical director this school year. New orchestra director Angela Ammerman previously taught at Robinson SS, is on the Board of Directors for the University of Mary Washington Orchestra and conducts the Rappahannock Youth Symphony.

She majored in music education at the CollegeConservatory of Music in Ohio and received her master’s degree in music at Boston University.

She uses laughter as her secret weapon in conducting. “I try to find humor in daily life and will find myself cracking up in class from time to time,” Ammerman said. “Laugh at yourself!

Life isn’t as serious as you think!”

At Ammerman’s high school, she was already known for her musical passion. “I was voted ‘best musician’ as a part of our senior superlatives,” Ammerman said.

Ammerman thinks string players should rarely have to play softly. Walking past her classroom during rehearsal, students can hear her telling her orchestra to play louder.

Orchestra students think this coming year will be better than the last.

“The teacher actually has a lot more ideas this year, and she’s trying her best to actually make it happen. Last year, we barely did any fundraising,” junior Claudette Pagulayan said.

Ammerman will try to make more opportunities for the community to hear the orchestra play. She plans to have more events including fundraisers.

“

Laugh at yourself! Life isn’t as serious as you think! ­ —Angela Ammerman

Her energy also impresses students. “I think that she genuinely wants all the orchestras to sound as good as they can,” senior Oumaima Kaabi said. “I’m excited to see a more serious change in everyone’s attitude.”

Stephanie Lewis, the old orchestra teacher, went to direct Hayfield Secondary School’s orchestra after last year. Her decision undoubtedly brought a gift to AHS’ orchestra community.

Ammerman chose AHS for its promise and talent. “Annandale has a growing orchestra program with immense potential and I could not resist the possibilities here!” Ammerman said.

—George Bennett Theatre Arts teacher — Compiled by Carina Chu

Awards Best Play Best Director Best Actor

Class Acts directors share their outlooks and advice for their upcoming performance

Sophomores

Freshmen Title of play: A Typically A-typical Day

Title of play: Final Dress Rehearsal

Director: Senior Kevin Nguyen

Director: Senior Betsy Cohan

Original author: Richard Norquist

Original author: John Dean Frakes

Summary: “A bunch of whacky hi-jinks in the mayor’s office before the mayor shows up,” Nguyen said.

Summary: “It’s a play about a play in which the director comes in and tries to put on the final dress rehearsal and it’s diastrous and hilarious and funny things happen,” Cohan said.

Q: What is your outlook for the performance?

A: “Since I’m directing most likely a bunch of freshmen, it’s going to be a lot of trouble. But I’m sure I can make it work weeks before it premieres.”

Juniors

Title of play: Meeting Sam

Director: Junior Gabi Montes de Oca Original author: Alan Haehnal

Best Supporting Actor

Q: What is your coaching style?

A: “My coaching style is I want to know how they perceive their character first; they come up with an idea of what their character is to them.

And then if I think they should edge towards a direction, then I’ll do that. But for the most part, I like them to be creative on their own.”

9/26/2012 7:30 p.m. - Choral Boosters Meeting (Chorus Room) 10/2/2012 6:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. Orchestra Boosters Mtg./Rehearsals (Orchestra Room)

AHS Art Mural On your smartphone, scan the code above using the application “QR Code” to read about how AHS is planning to create a mural in the school.

10/9/2012 6:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. Orchestra Boosters Mtg./Rehearsals (Orchestra Room) 10/16/2012 6:00 p.m. - 9:00p.m. Orchestra Boosters Mtg./Rehearsals (Orchestra Room) 10/30/2012 6:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. Orchestra Boosters Mtg./Rehearsals (Orchestra Room)

Seniors

Original author: Marisa Kanai

Number of cast members: 18-20

9/25/2012 6:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. Orchestra Boosters Mtg./Rehearsals (Orchestra Room)

Q: What is your advice for your actors and actresses?

A: “My advice for our actors today is to really get into the role. A lot of them focus too hard on getting the lines just right or their blocking just right. But if you don’t have those 100 percent, you can make those up with good acting.”

Director: Seniors Skye Lindberg and Alex Lash

Summary: “It’s basically about a writer who stopped writing and never finished any of her characters, so [her characters] are trying to get her to finish writing so they can finish their story, ” Montes de Oca said.

Upcoming Arts Events

Number of cast members: 13

Title of play: The Totally Life-Changing Letter that Doesn’t Really Matter

Best Actress Best Supporting Actress

Her many goals for the orchestra include channeling each student’s ‘inner musician’. She wants them to find the same passion for music as she did. She also wants to get their name out more.

“I would love to see the Annandale Orchestra program outside in the community more often; [for example], in nursing homes, hospitals, community events,” Ammerman said.

Directors reveal Class Acts previews

Number of cast members: 14

“The funny thing is the people who won each year are the same four actors who went up each grade.”

”

PHOTO COURTESY OF ANGELA AMMERMAN

What was your favorite part about Class Acts?

Sept. 19, 2012

Sept. 5, 2012

Summary: “It’s about getting accepted to college and a girl going through her struggles of applying and taking tests to get in,” Lindberg said.

Number of cast members: 7-15 Q: How do you feel about the auditions?

A: “We’re really excited because we have a lot of people interested and we think our cast is gonna be great,” Lindberg said.

Arts

9

Academics

Sept. 19, 2012

Online textbooks to debut

The county’s decision brings mixed emotions from students

By Nuhami Mandefro and Hiwot Daniel Staff Writers

MOLLY KECK

Hardcover textbooks have been a part of AHS since 1954, but will they soon be banished forever? Last year, AHS introduced online textbooks to the history department and they have now taken over the math department.

These textbooks come from websites like my.hrw.com and pearsonsuccess. net, which require students to create their own account.

AHS is catching with teachnology on by using online textbooks. Subjects like history and math are now recommending the use of online textbooks.

Jamie Carayiannis, assistant principal and administrator of the math department, discussed about the transition from hardcover to online Some teachers and students will miss their textbooks, but others are happy that they don’t textbooks. ”It was FCPS department of have to carry around a heavy textbook. inconstructional services, the school Online textbooks give students and school financially because constantly board, and superintendent from FCPS parents unlimited access to their changing our set of textbooks every that made the decision to transfer textbooks.” three to four years was very expensive. textbooks,” said Carayiannis. “The Teachers had prepare for their Carayiannis also mentioned that two reasons why the county made the construction over the summer. the school still have the capability to decision was to save money and there Online textbooks also help the provide hardcover textbooks to anyone is unlimited access to the textbook.

who doesn’t have internet access. “ FCPS is making an effort to stay in pace with technology. This is why the school board also allows students to use their devices during school hours,” Carayiannis said. “ We have to keep up with the pace of technology” Geometry teacher, Srividhya Kalyan, is open to the decision, but is uncertain about the results of them. “I got the information last year,” Kaylan said, “My reaction was mixed. The textbooks could have a positive or negative effect.”

Students’ reactions on the topic have been mixed, but most seem to be unhappy with the change. When asked senior Vanessa Maranon on her thoughts on online textbooks, she voiced her negative opinion, “I hate online textbooks, I prefer hands on.”

Maranon said.

Freshman Tucker Mack said, “I don’t like online textbooks. Hardcover textbooks are more accessible.” Some students are trying to see the brighter side of the situation.

Sophomore Connor Ahearm said, “I prefer online textbooks because it’s easier than carrying around a textbook. A laptop is so much easier.”

Online textbooks can lead to more opportunities for the school board to adapt to the new technical era. With two subjects already on board, more classes may soon grasp on to the new change.

School start time is up for change The school board will decide whether to change the time school start time this fall

By Berta Tarqui Academics Editor

MOLLY KECK

It’s first period and you are having a difficult time staying awake; the teachers just seem to be going on and on. You suddenly regret staying up until two in the morning to finish your homework.

It isn’t very surprising to walk past a first period classroom and see AHS students nodding off or yawning every few seconds. A lot of students lack sleep and an answer to this issue is to push back the start time for school. There is a proposal to change the school time for FCPS, but it has been turned down time after time. Most high school students do not get enough sleep and they often make it up during class.

This autumn, the new board will will improve because they will be have higher attendance in the first period of the day. It’s been proven decide whether or not to change the well rested.

Somewhat surprisingly, some AHS that sleep is associated with good school schedules, only this time, there are more board members in favor of teachers like the idea of changing the academic performance, which is the start times. “I do, actually; I agree main reason that activists for this changing the times than usual.

Many AHS students arrive to with the idea behind it. My kids go proposal want high school students school exhausted because FCPS to school in Arlington and their high to come to school later.

“I would like for the time to change start at 7:20 a.m.. One county that school starts an hour later and it the board is studying is Loudoun makes a difference,” English teacher from seven to eight, so I can get more County, which starts at 9:00. The Joy Korones said. Students will arrive time to sleep. As high school students, board may decide to model the new on time for their first class, and stay it is important for health and growth.” time schedule after Loudoun County, awake throughout the whole school sophomore Tho Tran said. Studies have also shown that students who where elementary school students day.

There have been studies done to get the right amount of sleep have start earlier than those in FCPS. The activists for the time change prove that schools that start later higher history, English, and math believe that FCPS students’ work see academic improvement. They also scores.

Despite these statistics, others don’t believe that a later start time for school will help academic performance. Students would go home later and still have much to do; they would most likely just end up going to bed even later. Thus, they would be getting the same amount of sleep.

“I wouldn’t like the idea because everybody would have less time to do their homework or play sports because we would be released later.” junior Cristian Tarqui.

Those against the proposal also argue that this change would not be beneficial, because it would cost more money. The school will also have to change the class schedules and bus times. Students that are routinely picked up by their parents may have a way to get home if the start and end times of school do change.

The change could also limit the amount of time that sports could practice and clubs could meet. Most students who participate in clubs or sports don’t get home until five or six o’clock, and want to take time to relax before starting their homework. This means that homework might not be completed until late at night. If the time change were to go into effect, the amount of homework given to AHS students would not change to accommodate the shorter afternoons and evenings. It will all depend on the student in the end and how well they can manage their time.

Science Crossword Puzzle Across: 3. Composed by two or more elements 5. 0-6 on the pH scale 6. Pairs up with thymine 9. A type of monosaccharide found in mostly plants 10. The amount of noble gases on the periodic table 11. This type of dating is a rough estimate of a fossil age

Down: 1. Another name for a macromolecule 2. The first stage of mitosis 4. The plant used to study

9

Tips to get organized this year

1)Put away your papers:

Oftentimes students are in a rush to pack up their supplies and end up just shoving everything into their bag which then leads to lost, ripped and crumpled papers. Students should take the time to put all their papers into an appropriate binder or folder.

2) Plan out your week on a master calender: The typical AHS student has many things going on besides school, which is why it’s important that they plan out what they have to do. This way your time is managed accordingly.

3)Have a set, organized place to do your homework: Whether it be a desk or the kitchen table, try to do your homework in the same spot so that you’ll always know where your assignments are. It also helps to have an organized desk so it’s easy to find your things.

4) Do a monthly cleaning of your locker, backpack, and desk: No matter how hard you try, your year is going to get a little hectic and you’ll end up not keeping places very clean. This is why every month you should clean out your locker and backpack and reorganize your desk.

5) Use your agenda: Although several AHS students post their assignments on blackboard; not all do which is why you must remember to write down your homework. Even the teachers who typically post the homework forget to once in a while and chances are you’ll have forgotten at least one of the assignments.

Vocabulary Words CACOPHONY noun A disagreeable, harsh, or discordant sound or combination of sounds or tones QUAY noun A wharf or artificial landingplace on the shore of a harbor or projecting into it QUIESCENT adjective Being in a state of repose or inaction RAMPART noun A bulwark or construction to oppose assault or hostile entry REPROOF noun An expression of disapproval or blame personally addressed to one

genetics 7. The only liquid metal in room temperature 8. Pairs up with guanine

College Profile: Virginia Tech On your smartphone, scan this code above using the application “QR Code” to view a story about the college of Virginia Tech.

Zambia Fact Book — Located in Southern Africa, south of the Dominican Republic of Congo —The population consists of 13,817,479 individuals as of July 2012 —Home to the Zambizi river ad Lake Kariba —99.5 percent of the population consists of Africans —Bemba, the official language of Zambia, makes up 30.1 percent of the spoken languages —Religious beliefs include Christian, Muslim and Hindu —Most Zambians range from ages 15-64 years —80.6 percent of the population over age 15 can read and write

What do you think makes foreign movies different from Hollywood films?

“I like Hollywood movies because they put more money into their films and I think they are generally better than foreign films.”

— Michael Weaver freshman

“Well I like the fact that Bollywood has a different take on movies, they don’t filter anything, and they make stories you wont see in Hollywood.”­ —Bailey Oliver, freshman

“The acting and directing in Bollywood films are more developed and advanced and the ideas are more original.”

—Umar Farooq sophomore

“Hollywood movies are typical and foreign movies are better because you don’t know what happens, compared to Hollywood where you can guess the ending.”

—Leihla Elahi sophomore

“I think Bollywood movies are different because the plot is different, the culture in each movie is unique, and it gives a different outlook on each problem.”

Sept. 19 , 2012

Student’s trip to Zambia Junior Chloe Loving reflects on a summer aid trip taken to Zambia, Africa

By Chloe Loving Photo Editor As I stepped off of the plane in Lusaka, Zambia for my humanitarian aid, I had no idea how much this trip would change not only my perspective on life but as well as how I view others around me.

As I entered the school, I saw students in tears; supplies that we take for granted every day had opened up a new world of opportunities for the children.

This trip taught me so much in just 19 days. No school lesson can teach you how to make a five-year-old orphan laugh and smile. There are some things that you have to experience to understand.

The first school we visited was Chikumbuso, located in the capital, Lusaka.

It is considered a more modern learning center, as it also serves as a community center and orphanage.

The first thing I noticed in Zambia was the dry ground. Some of the children were wearing shoes, and many were covered in dust. Each student had only one or two sets of clothes, yet they sacrificed what they had to play with their friends.

I stood there taking in my surroundings. I could feel the children staring at me, noticing every detail of my appearance. Their eyes made me nervous.

My thoughts were scattered, stuck on every aspect of the school, when suddenly, I felt something grab my dirty jeans. I looked down and noticed a young boy of about four or five years of age. He was smiling and laughing as he hugged me.

I knelt down to his height and I asked him what his name was. “I am Jonatan.

How are you?” “I am good. How about you?” He stared at me blankly. One of the leaders from our group whispered to me, “Say you are fine, not good!” I couldn’t see why that would make a difference, yet I thought it was worth a try anyways.

I tried again. “I am fine. How are you, Jonatan?” He immediately answered, “I am fine.” I then realized that this was the full extent of his English, and that all students were taught this formulaic conversation as their basis for English.

Only the older children could converse in more developed English.

I looked at Jonatan with my new realization in mind and began to smile.

Such a sweet boy, trying so hard to make me feel welcome.

Our stay at Chikumbuso lasted all of three days. The first day we were given

PHOTOS COURTESY OF CHLOE LOVING

12

International

TOP: A group of students in local school, LEFT: Chitukuko, a special needs school that has an average class of eighty students, MIDDLE: A special needs boy participates in an English exercise, RIGHT: Loving with a young learning impaired girl.

a tour by one of the headmasters. Her name was Gladys and she had been at Chikumbuso since the very beginning.

She explained that this organization started as simply a school but evolved into a shelter after one particular night.

There I met a 16-year-old girl who was bound by marriage to a much older man.

She lived as an orphan from a young age, and the man had found her on the streets.

He was her only chance for survival; however, she was incessantly beaten and raped by her husband. One night, she became so desperate to escape the abuse that she ran to the closest building she could see. The next morning, she was found by the teachers of Chikumbuso.

They took her in and she began to live in a small room that they provided for her. Almost five years later, this room is called the “Haven Room”. Children who escape poor situations can come to this room at any hour of the day and stay until they find a better solution to their

current problem. The children are often placed with foster parents or taken in by the teachers. Gladys continued to explain as she told us that the young girl was now a teacher at Chikumbuso and lived there with her daughter, the product of the abusive marriage. Later, we met Kelly, the beautiful four-year-old girl whose mother had been through so much.

In preparation for our first day of instruction, we fabricated basic lesson plans to use with the orphans which we soon noticed were changed as the instruction began. My particular group attempted to teach the seventh graders poetry but their English was not so advanced.

Many of the students spoke a different vernacular depending on the region they were raised in.

After working with Chikumbuso we visited a small school called Chitituko.

This particular institution was for special needs students who were not given the attention they needed at other schools.

The whole school only had two teachers, including the principal, and one small cinderblock room with a divider in the middle. Even this small cement room exceeded their budget, and they were five months behind on their low rent - the equivalency of 25 dollars.

72 out of the 80 students enrolled were orphans. 60 out of 80 of these children were HIV and/or AIDS positive. The school attempted to provideARVs (AIDS medication) to its students; however, the medication is meant to be given with a nutritious diet and is otherwise ineffective. Chitituko also tried to develop a feeding program, but the most they could afford was once every week, which, for most of the students was their only meal.

On your smartphone, scan this code using the application “QR code” to finish reading Chloe’s Zambia Humanitarian Aid story

Bollywood adapts American films Foreign films have based several plots on older Hollywood movies

By Shamaim Syed International Editor Many writers and directors get their inspiration from personal experiences or books, but the Bollywood movie industry has used Hollywood movie ideas.

Bollywood movies have increased their audiences enormously over time, but many critics think that, though the Bollywood movies are good, they have copied a lot of movies made by Hollywood directors.

The 1987 movie Three Men and a Baby is about three bachelors who enjoy their lives partying until, one day, a baby is dropped in front of their doorstep, and one of the three bachelors happens to be the father. A similar movie was made in India called Hey Babyy in 2007.

This movie was also about three guys living their lives together and having the time of their lives, but one day, one of the girlfriends drops a baby at the doorstep of the guys’ house. The plot is virtually the same as the three men try to figure out how to take care of the baby, as well as whose baby it is.

Another one of the many films Bollywood has copied

from the Hollywood movie industry is Bonnie and Clyde, which was made in 1967; Bollywood created a movie called Bunty Aur Bubli in 2005. The two films had many plot similarities: a woman and a man both team up and become robbers and outlaws. In Bonnie and Clyde, Bonnie teams up with Clyde, becoming his partner in crime, because she feels her life is too boring.

In Bunty Aur Bubli, which means “Bunty and Bubli,” the two, like Bonnie and Clyde, meet up and decide to become criminals.

While most people believe that Bollywood directors have plagiarized the works of Hollywood movies, there are still those who disagree. “At times, yes, [they do copy]; but, then again, at times it’s just their ideas. I feel like older Bollywood movies are copied less, and now, since they have less ideas to go off of, they copy Hollywood [movies],” Sophomore Henna Ayub said.

Many argue that the plot of the movies might be the same, but there are many other differences: Bollywood are at least two hours, whereas Hollywood movies are only about an hour and half. Another difference is that Bollywood movies are quite famous for their many songand-dance numbers incorporated into the movies, while Hollywood movies usually don’t heavily focus the movies on songs or dances. “I know that some are [copied], but I believe most aren’t, especially because only in Bollywood movies is it possible for a bunch of random people to know the steps to any song in the movie,” Senior Sameera Ferdous said.

Whether you agree or disagree that many of the

2007 Indian movie Bunty aur Bubli imitated the 1967 Bonnie and Clyde

Bollywood movies are plagiarized, there are many differences that also show the uniqueness of the movies, and show Indian movies in a different light. Even if you watch a Bollywood movie and a Hollywood movie that have similar plots, you will encounter the difference of culture and, of course, the actors and actresses. Like in the Bollywood movie Bunty Aur Bubli, the setting and the interactions of the two characters are totally different than Bonnie and Clyde, which was shot in rural lands, and is more of a older version, while Bunty Aur Bubli is more of a modern version.

HOLLYWOOD MOVIES AND THEIR BOLLYWOOD KNOCKOFFS

—Rugia Wasuge junior

“I like foreign films better because they pay attention to little details that Hollywood movies don’t and they are quirky.”

—Kathleen Mathis English teacher

—Compiled By Megan Ryan

E.T: The Extra Terrestrial is a movie made by Steven Speilberg in 1982 about an alien who lands on Earth and befriends a little boy. The young boy, Elliott, along with his brother and sister, assist E.T in avoiding the government and returning home.

The classic movie includes a cast of Henry Thomas, Drew Berrymore and Robert McNaughton.

Koi Mil Gaya, which means I met someone is a Bollywood movie directed by Rakish Roshan in 2003, which is also about an alien who lands on earth and befriends a mentally challenged adult. Through the adventures with the alien, Rohit, the main character, finds his true love. This adaptation includes Hrithik Roshan and Preity Zinta.

The 1997 movie, My Best Friend’s Wedding was directed by P.J. Hogan.

Julia Roberts stars as Julianne Potter, a woman whose love for her friend, Michael O’Neil played by Dermot Mulroney, unexpectedly flourishes after his engagement. Other notable roles include Cameron Diaz as Kimberly Wallace, the finance of O’Neil.

Meri Yaar Ki Shaddi Hai; which basically means my best friend’s wedding is a David Dhawan movie made in 2004. This Bollywood imitation is also about a man who falls in love with his childhood friend, only to realize it when she is about to get married. The cast includes Uday Chopra, Tulip Joshi and Jimmy Shergill.

PHOTO

Sept. 19, 2012

Come ‘clay’ with me Ceramics offers the best opportunity to get dirt under your finger nails. Over 70 students enrolled in this class enjoy the hands-on experience.

This elective offers the artists the chance to express creativity and imagination through their clay projects.

13 What are your favorite electives?

“Orchestra because I like music and it’s one of my only music classes. I like the teacher. She sets me in a good mood and she’s jolly all the time.”

—Leif Jomuad freshman

“P.E., because it’s fun, active and we get to do activities and run around.”

—Joseph

Listopad freshman

“Band, because it’s fun to play music. I also really enjoy playing my clarinet.”

—Kenny

Senior Connie Tran traces out her clay with her pre-planned sketches as a template for her sculpting during class.

PRIYA ADHIKARY

CHLOE LOVING

Duong sophomore

The final step in creating clay pottery is to place the artwork into the kiln to fire, so it can dry quickly.

“I like AVID. It keeps me organized, helps with my grades and I look forward to it helping me on my college applications.”

—Sara Khan

junior

“I like Anthropology because I get to learn about other people’s cultures, especially the food they eat and how different it is.”

—Francisco CHLOE LOVING

PRIYA ADHIKARY

Junior Erika Alwes sculpts a design onto her clay tile.

PRIYA ADHIKARY

Lam junior

Senior Arlene Zavala uses a utensil to carve intricate patterns.

Junior Cynthia Weiner makes impressions with her finger using it as a tool to make her design unique.

“Photojournalism because I’m passionate about it and the class is like a family.

I’m really close to my classmates and it feels good to work on something that’s appreciated by the school.”

—Elizabeth

CHLOE LOVING

PRIYA ADHIKARY

Waugh senior

Junior Amy Reynolds picks up a carving tool to enhance the three dimensional effect of her image.

“My favorite elective is Annandale Singers because I worked hard to get into the group and chorus is a big part of my life.

Also, my choir friends are in this ensemble.”

—Victoria Beasley senior

Art teacher Meredith Stevens goes to the Potter’s Wheel and begins sculpting a slab of clay to demonstrate the use of the device.

CHLOE LOVING

PRIYA ADHIKARY

And insider’s view on the new Ceramics class

Junior Sarah Kim traces designs onto her tile with a pointed tool.

Junior Yasmin Naldo uses a wooden instrument to wipe off the extra bits of clay from her tile.

On your smartphone, scan this code using the application “QR Code” to view an exclusive story by Cynthia Weiner about the new ceramics class.

14

Lifestyles

Different businesses are working to donate money to charities around the world

By Olivia Lafferty

Dear Livi, I come from a very strict Muslim family and my parents always tell me that I am not allowed to date anybody from a different background. I always respect what my parents say, but I do not agree with them this time. I have been dating a Christian guy for several months. I am really close to my mom, and I usually tell her everything. I am tired of keeping this part of my life from her. This secret is getting in the way of my happiness at home and with my relationship. What should I do?

-Anonymous Dear Anonymous, Sometimes you should tell the truth even when it is hard to do. Lying to your parents is going to get exhausting and you will only be able to keep it up for so long. I’m sure your parents would appreciate it if you were completely honest with them even if they’re not happy with what you have to say. It may take some time for your parents to accept it, but in the end they do want you to be happy. Inviting your boyfriend over for dinner so your parents can get to know him may also be a good way to show your parents that he is a good guy despite the religious difference.

In the end, honesty will save both the relationship with your parents and your boyfriend.

By Megan Flynn Lifestyles Editor Everyone has seen the tear-jerking television commercials of the malnourished, practically naked children of poor, third-world countries begging for money donations. While these painfully sad commercials hit home inside the hearts of sympathetic individuals, many are unsure of how or where to donate money to help those in need. What a lot of people do not know, is that by supporting certain brands or companies, a portion of their money is donated on a large scale to charities and organizations around the world.

“I am much more likely to buy something if I know my money is going to a worthwhile cause,” senior Ashley Whittle said.

With all of the technological and medical advances prevalent in the world, the theme of giving back is spreading among companies. Slowly but surely popular name-brands are jumping on the humanitarian bandwagon, so to speak, and are supporting unique causes.

A large scale and widely known example of this is the TOMS shoe brand. TOMS has been donating shoes to children in need around the world since 2006, because they know shoes are a basic necessity and are lacking for children in many countries. Their motto is, “One for one” meaning for every pair of TOMS purchased, a pair is also donated to a child in need. The shoes can be

The Factory Tees and Vintage Apparel Local Fairfax thrift store flourishes off of successful graphic tee printing business

-Livi

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

What’s your favorite upcoming fall fashion trend?

“Sweaters, uggs, and leggings; they’re comfortable and cute.”

-Sitav Khaled freshman “Oversized sweatshirts and boots because they’re comfortable and you can wear them with leggings.”

­---Lee Hayes

“I like to wear skinny jeans with cuts in them in the fall because it starts to get cold and I hate baggy jeans.”

other locations. They are committed to making clean water available around the world and have a “Drop for Drop” initiative where for every bottle of People Water purchased an equal amount of water is donated to a person in need. People Water is built on the foundation that success is also about giving back, and they do so in the form of the most basic human necessity; water.

“To me all water tastes the same, so I don’t mind buying People Water if I need to buy a bottle of water because I know I’m not only helping myself but am also giving back to the world,” senior James Terrell said.

Vera Bradley is a popular fabric brand that can be seen in just about every hallway at AHS, whether in the form of a backpack, pencil pouch, lunch box or notebook.

What many students do not know is that by purchasing breast cancer awareness colors, among which are multiple pattern choices but all involve pink, Vera Bradley donates 10 percent of the net proceeds to the Vera Bradley Foundation for Breast Cancer. This foundation has donated more than $15 million to breast cancer research.

“I didn’t know at the time that my money was going toward breast cancer, but if I had known when I was buying my Vera Bradley tote then I would have been drawn to it even more,” senior Shannon Casey said. “It makes me feel good that my money is going toward such An AHS student shows off her TOMS shoes, which provide a a good cause and is being used for a beneficial purpose.” pair of shoes to a child in need for every pair purchased.

It is becoming very common to see more and more bought for a price as low as $54, available in a variety of companies with mission statements to make the styles and color.

“I love wearing my TOMS. I have two pairs and I wear world a better place. By doing something so simple as purchasing a pair of TOMS, or even a bottle of People them all the time! It’s a great feeling knowing that once I put my pair on there is someone else in the Water, consumers are able to give back to people in need world in need who is also benefiting from the comfort of around the world. these shoes,” junior Hayat Yusuf said.

A perhaps lesser known but equally influential brand is People Water, which is a water brand sold in 7-11s and

By Gaby Camilli Lifestyles Editor The Factory Tees and Vintage Apparel is a retro, individual store in Old Town Fairfax that offers a unique, wide variety of vintage clothes and graphic tees. The store opened about a year and a half ago and expanded just over a year ago. With vintage dresses, leather jackets, cowgirl boots and witty graphic tees, the store provides a great selection of teenage friendly clothing for both genders for a very low price. “ [The] vintage stuff we get from whole sellers that collect up and down the East Coast,” store owner Stan Darke said. “They basically pick and then they sell to stores. But then there’s a lot of new stuff that we design and print here in our shop.”

The store’s website has a design your own t-shirt feature where customers can select from a wide selection of products including items like hoodies, tank tops and sweatpants. After selecting which specific brand and product to use, the customer can pick out a color and either choose from a collection of graphic designs or make their own design to be printed on the product.

You can use this feature to make funny t-shirts with photos of you and your friends or even show your spirit and design a class t-shirt. This feature is a creative way to make your wardrobe a little more personal and unique.

“We do custom screen printing; we do stuff for like different clubs or organizations, that’s our main business,” Darke said.

The store has printed t-shirts for various local high schools’ sports and clubs teams including South County Cheer and the Hayfield Theatre Department.

According to Darke, they have even provided Annandale t-shirts for several sports teams including basketball.

“We sell an equal amount of vintage and t-shirts, and the vintage stuff tends to sell a little more with people that are like in college and beyond,” Darke said.

“Some of the younger [shoppers] tend to get more of the t-shirts, probably one of the more popular ones is the Northern Virginia is better than the rest of Virginia [t-shirt].”

OLIVIA LAFFERTY

Advice Column

Companies with a cause

OIVIA LAFFERTY

Livi Listens

Sept. 19, 2012

The Factory Tees & Vintage Apparel in the heart of Old Town Fairfax offers vintage cowgirl boots and unique I-Phone cases. It also offers a way to design your own t-shirts

According to Darke, the hippy bajas are one of their more popular items that are sold very quickly. The store offers the hippy bajas in several colors for a extremely low price of just $20, which is a much cheaper alternative to those that are sold at big time clothing chains like Urban Outfitters.

Along with the hippy bajas, the store offers a wide selection of vintage leather jackets, flats, heels, jewelry, handbags, high-waisted pants, floor length skirts, unique dresses, cowgirl boots and retro men’s and women’s shirts and combat boots. Some of their non vintage products include a display of quirky I-Phone cases and bedazzled hair clips.

The store’s location on Main Street offers free parking and is open every day.

Check out the store’s Facebook, Twitter or web page or go to the location and personalize your wardrobe with some unique retro apparel!

How to: 10 steps to water marble nails

--Ke’shawn Jones sophomore “I like to wear Uggs in the fall because they’re warm and really comfortable.”

1.

­---Katherine Haber junior “Flannels because they’re comfortable and warm.”

Start by gathering your materials. You will need white nail polish, 3 colors of your choice, tape, toothpicks, nail polish remover, a bowl of room temp. water and a clear top coat.

2.

Rip several pieces of scotch tape and stick them on your finger all around the nail, leaving the skin around the nail completely covered.

3.

4.

5.

9.

10.

Paint one layer of clear base coat onto your nails. This will make the polish stick to your nail better and will protect your nails from staining.

Once the base coat is completely dried, paint on two layers of white nail polish, avoiding the skin around the nail.

8.

Dip a q-tip into nail polish remover and remove nail polish on the skin around the nail to make your fingers look clean and have a salon finish.

Pour several drops of each color nail polish into the bowl of water making a target-like design on the surface of the water.

-Bambuu Bat-ochir senior

-Compiled by Erin Johnson

Livi Listens: Odd man out On your smartphone, scan this code using the application “QR Code” to read a Livi Listens about a friend who feels left out

With a toothpick, swirl the nail polish on the top of the water to make a cool marble-like design. Make sure to do this step as quick as possible so that the nail polish doesn’t start to dry on the surface of the

6.

7.

Place the surface of your nail on the top of the water for several seconds, while slowly blowing on the water. Use a toothpick to gather the nail polish from the surface of the water, and remove your hand.

Blow on your finger nail for several seconds and slowly remove the tape surrounding your nail making sure not to take off any of the polish on the nail

Finish your nails off with a top coat of anti-chip clear polish to avoid chipping, add shine, and give your nail a smooth texture. Now you know how to recreate salon marble nails for an extremely low cost.

Sports X-tra

Sept. 19, 2012

Two teams? No problem

Hockey by the numbers

An inside look at the life of students who do two sports throughout the year

82

By Ayah oweis Sports X-tra Editor

The average number of fights per game.

2 7 30

Junior Allie Vogus rubs her hands with chalk before competing to keep her hands from slipping when on the uneven bars.

Daniel Jessen, like school teams for the same reason: “I like my school team better because we get along better and are a closer team.

Some students are able to compete in even more stressfilled sports. Doing good in a sport and doing good in school is probably the hardest thing normal students do, but these above and beyond students have been doing well not only in one sport, but in two.

For example,freshman Aaron Boyd has even more on his plate, he plays football, basketball, baseball and swims for both club teams and school teams. “It is hard to do it all but I learned to manage my time throughout the year.”

It is hard to juggle two sports and school, but these students are able to keep their grades up and do good in practice.

15

Die-hard hockey fans may be out of luck this season. With tensions running high between players and owners, the chances of there being a full season are dwindling. Students who are Capitals fans have been taking over Facebook and Twitter with their updates about games; it is obvious that our students love hockey and are die hard fans. A lockout may just be the end of the world for them.

The most recent lockout was back in the 20042005 season, when the problems between the players and the owners caused the entire season to be cancelled.

If there were to be a lockout this season, it would be because of the rise in the player’s salary. After the 2004-2005 lockout, the owners set a salary cap on the players that put the players income from revenue at 54 percent; since then it has risen up to 57 percent. The rise in the players’ income has put the owners in a tight spot, causing conflict.

Many AHS students go to hockey games consistently throughout each season, especially Capitals games. If there were to be a lockout this season, it wouldn’t just hurt the players; it would also hurt the fans. It is hard to imagine life without hockey.

“I hope there isn’t a lockout this season because I really enjoy going to the Caps games,” junior Hannah Coulter said.

Some students are trying to be positive and say there may be an upcoming season, but others

Thousand gallons of water to make a rink.

The number of names currently on the Stanley Cup.

COURTESY OF ALLIE VOGUS

1

The number of puck-related deaths.

—Compiled by Ayah Oweis

On your smartphone, scan this code above using the application “QR Code” to view a story sbout a student who decided to quit her AHS sport to play club.

Junior Kyle Peich plays on the AHS varsity soccer team as well as the SYC travel team year round.

Fans scared for NHL lockout

By Ayah Oweis Sports X-tra Editor

The average number of miles per hour a hockey player goes when speed skating.

The number of games a player has to participate in to have their name on the Stanley Cup.

3

Student quits high school sport to play a club sport

Students are getting anxious to know if there will be an upcoming season

The height of the original Stanley Cup in inches.

2163

Vogus competes in a gymnastics competition along with her club, Cardinal Gymnastics.

Some students, like senior

The number of games per season The number of time the Washington Capitals have won the Stanley Cup.

0

COURTESY OF KYLE PEICH

Some students like junior Allie Vogus can handle the pressure of swim meets and a gymnastics competition all in the same day, and still be home in time to do homework.

For a normal student, a sport along with schoolwork is enough.

These students put even more pressure on themselves by doing two sports at the same time: one school and one club.

Although it is hard to keep up with everything, some students manage to do well during games and practices and have a social life. They do it all.

Junior Kyle Peich plays club soccer on a travel team all year round and also plays on the varsity team in Annandale.

“It is hard to juggle both teams because I don’t have time to do my homework until late,” Peich said.

“Sometimes my club coaches are flexible and let me skip practice if I have a lot of homework.”

While Peich thinks keeping up with both sports is hard, sophomore Lacrosse player and Cross Country runner Carter Britton said,“It’s not that hard because I have time in between each practice to get things done.”

If teachers are wondering why these students show up tired to class, this would be the main reason. Practicing two times a day as well as having homework to do leads to the students to having to push their homework to a later time.

“It is hard to do both sports as well as keep your grades up, but once you have a balanced schedule you start to get used to it,” junior Michelle Burnett said. Burnett plays on a travel soccer team as well as varsity soccer.

Despite the players constantly have packed schedules, they still get the best of both worlds by playing two sports. Senior Olivia Franjie said, “I like both club and school because in school I get closer to the people I see every day, but in club it gets more intense.”

Some students like playing in club sports more because it takes up more time in their lives.

“I like competing in club gymnastics more because it’s a bigger part of my life,” Vogus said. “I see my gymnastics friends everyday so I grow closer to them and have more fun during practice.”

15

Think you know hockey?

1. What is a puck made of?

2. How thick is the ice?

3. Which NHL team has won the most Stanley Cups?

4. Who are the Original Six?

NHL Lockout for Dummies

5. What is icing?

•

Players and owners disagree on the player’s salary of $300,00.

6. How tall is the

•

After a salary cap was put on the players after the 2004-2005 lockout, the players’ salary was lowered.

current Stanley Cup?

•

Now, the salaries of the players have risen past the initial salary cap, scaring the owners.

7. Which team won the first

•

The contract length has been extended to three years.

•

A profit-sharing plan that splits the revenue 50/50 between players and owners sounds like a good idea, but is actually a very messy business.

of Fame located?

•

Not only are players and owners disagreeing, the owners and NHL commissioner are butting heads as well.

9. When did

•

Rising revenue costs is a kep player in this fight; the higher the revenue is the more money players expect to get, but the commissioner has other plans.

•

Once the owners and players reach an agreement, the season will continue as if there was no lockout.

are getting skeptical as the supposed start of the season gets closer.

If the season goes as planned, it will start Oct. 11 and end April 13. The way things are looking now, it is hard to know if there will be any season at all; let alone a couple of games.

“I’m not going to be to happy if they have a lockout this season because I really like going to watch the Capitals play, but I doubt there will be a lockout,” senior Nick Warner said.

Commissioner Gary Bettman is not giving the players a break and has no intention of submitting to their wants: more money and a new deal.

The final decision has to be made by Sept.15,

which is quickly approaching.

Everyone is hoping for a full season, but they may get half a season, a little less, or maybe no season at all.

It isn’t easy imagining what October would be like without the constant hockey talk through the halls. Some students who are die hard Capitals fans may have a tough time adjusting if there are no games to go to if there is a lockout.

For some, life without hockey isn’t a happy life.

The bottom line is, there better be a season this year or there will be alot of unhappy fans out there waiting for a new season.

Stanley Cup? 8. Where is the NHL Hockey Hall

hockey become an Olympic sport?

10. Who was the youngest person to ever play in theNHL?

Think you know all about hockey?

On your smartphone, scan this code above using the application “QR Code” to view the answers for the ‘How well do you know hockey?’ quiz.

16

A Quarterback’s opinion on RGIII

Sports

Sept. 19, 2012

Football wins first game After defeating the Raiders 32-27 the Atoms have high hopes for the season

1) What is your opinion on RGIII? I think he is a good football player, but personally I’m not a Redskins fan but if he does well. I can understand the fans love for their new quarterback.

2) Do you agree with all the hype he got?

Some of the hype is definitely overrated, but you have to give credit where credit is due. He did well, lived up to a lot of the hype.

3) Did his performance live up to the hype?

He did pretty well, playing against the Saints defense, which is usually pretty good he did very good. But Redskins fans get excited for all their new players, we’ll see where he gets them.

Q & A with varsity cheer coach Cragin Winkler

Q. How has your first year as head cheerleading coach been?

A. So far it’s going perfect. The girls are really coming together and they work each other harder than I can, so I don’t have to yell.

Q. How have the girls been adjusting to your coaching style?

A. I have tried to keep a lot of what the girls already knew and did the same. I think the girls do a better job of helping each other than I do to help them. They’re really coming together as a team. I think they’re going to do great this year.

Q. What have you been doing to practice for upcoming events?

A. Lately, we have been working on improving our stunts and making our skill levels higher. We are hoping to be able to use all of the new and improved skill at the upcoming Patriot District Semifinals on Oct. 17. We are going to rock the house!

Sophomore Shawn Courtney catches a pass during warm up before the game against Stuart HS. Courtney scored one touchdown in the game. This is his first year on varsity.

Field hockey continues success

Strong leadership coupled with good chemistry creates a winning team

By Jarod Golub Sports Editor

AHS varsity field hockey is off to an impressive start this year. With seven wins and only three losses, the Atoms are ranked fifth in the Patriot district with South County and West Springfield in first and second, respectively according to the Washington Post.

The team also has four players on Washington Post’s leader board for high school sports as of Sept. 16. Senior Shannon Casey is ranked twelfth in goals with seven and sophomore Jenny McCann is ranked thirty-second with five goals. Senior Stephanie Allshouse is ranked thirty-fifth in assists with three and senior goalkeeper Jenny Jessen is ranked fifty second with five saves.

With ten seniors this year, the team has a lot of experience. “[The seniors] have positive attitudes and great leadership,” head coach Cindy Hook said. “Our season is going very well so far--we have had a great start and our team is working hard and improving each practice and game.”

The players also feel that their

COURTESY OF RANDY ALLSHOUSE

Junior Jackson Trollinger voices his opinion on Redskin’s quarterback Robert Griffin III.

The Atoms first win this season has had quite an effect on the coaches and players alike. They see this as a first step towards a great season, hoping to advance to the playoffs and beyond.

“I have no doubt in my players, they’ve really come together, and I see us going very far this year,” head coach Michael Scott said.

The team has been working very hard for almost seven weeks now, beginning in early August. Both the players and coaches are seeing improvement in the team.

“They’ve been working very hard.

I think this will be the first of many wins, they really deserved this,” Scott said.

The game ended with a score of 3227, with three touchdowns by senior Nolan Gilbert and one by sophomore Shawn Courtney. But everyone on the team was more than ecstatic with the win they got yesterday.

“I was definitely happy with my three touchdowns, but the highlight of my night was the win we got together,” Gilbert said.

COURTESY OF ANNIE NGUYEN

By Jarod Golub Sports Editor

Throughout their practices and games together the players have come to trust each other and their abilities as a team.

“When they got that pick in the last drive, I thought we had lost it, but then I remembered our defense and I knew I could trust them,” junior Steven Schwartz said.

After the game the team continued the tradition of singing the AHS fight song after winning a home game while the marching band played. Spectators crowded around the jock lobby parking lot to enjoy the spectacular performance.

The team is looking to keep improving and working as hard as they have been, everyday after school and some weekends to get to the playoffs.

With the talent on the team, there is a good chance of them getting there. “ We have a great group of kids, a lot of good senior leaders who are helping the younger kids to get better, I know the team will continue to work hard,” Scott said.

As the team looks towards their next game against Oakton on Sept. 21, they will watch film of this game and work to improve on things that they think they did wrong this game. The team will play their hardest and try to win again in two days.

“We just have to work on winning the next game and the next one, one game at a time,” Scott said.

Left: Sophomore Rachael Allshouse reaches to steal the ball from a Mount Vernon defender. Right: Senior Jenny Jessen prepares to block a shot.

season is going well, but there’s still room for improvement.

“I think our season is starting off nicely. We had a winning streak and then a losing streak, so hopefully from now on we’ll stay consistent with our wins., sophomore Jenny McCann said.

In order for the Atoms move up in ranking ,the coaches feel they will have to improve on some things.

“We need to continue to work on improving our stick skills, communication and timing.” Hook said.

Many of the players are looking forward to the district tournament this year. They feel that they have a good shot at doing well this year.

“We definitely want to go to the regional tournament.” McCann said.

The team will advance to the regional tournament if they do well in the district tournament, which begins October 15.

The last time the team went to the regional tournament was in 2010 when they advanced to the second round.

The Atoms haven’t had such a

successful season since 2006 when their final record was eleven wins and seven losses. “[We want to] focus on each gameone at a time-and have the results reflect the amount of work and dedication of our team.” Hook said.

If the Atoms continue to do well, they could exceed the 2006 record.

The Atoms played West Springfield last night, but the game was too late to be covered in this issue.

HOW DO YOU STACK UP? We accept cash, check, or credit. See Ms. Hanneman in room 268 or during white day lunches in the publications lab for details.

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Sports

Sept. 19, 2012

Unsure future at AHS Golf begins Patriot District Tournament today, despite setbacks caused by redistricting

Creating a successful team for many seasons to come is every coach’s goal, but looking at the district play, this dream did not become a reality for head golf coach Richard McCormack.

“There is no sugar-coating it: The Atoms Golf Team was not very good this year,” McCormack said. “We had the worst team I have been associated with at Annandale for the past 16 years.”

McCormack attributes the team’s shortcomings to the redistricting of the past year.

“The golf team did not have a single freshman come out for the team from the newly drawn district,” McCormack said. “Without freshmen, Annandale is in jeopardy of not being able to field a team, much less a competitive team, in three years.

Golf is not the only athletics program that had high amounts of athletes from neighborhoods that have been moved out of the Annandale pyramid.

The Patriot District golf tournament is set to begin today at the Twin Lakes golf course and will end tomorrow with two teams advancing to the regional tournament and the next five top qualifiers.

“The team has the ability to do well in the District Tournament, to surprise not only themselves but other teams,” McCormack said. “Our starters have the potential to post good scores.”

“My goal is to be top five in the district and

CHRISTINE TAMIR

By Betsy Kruse Sports Editor

Senior Christian Wong practices his swing at Army Navy Country Club. Wong is the leading scorer for the golf team.

qualify for regionals,” Wong said.

Each team competing in the tournament is allowed to enter six players, along with two alternates. Senior Christian Wong, Junior Michael Danyliw, Hennessey, Sophomore Richie

Q & A with new varsity swim coach Matt Bell

Fruchterman, Senior Stephen Oakes and Sophomore Jared Lefbom will be representing AHS. “My overall goal for the tournament is to make it as a team to the Regional Tournament, but my realistic goal is to place third, and not finish in last place,” McCormack said. “We have individuals who can make it, if they play well over 36 holes for two days.”

“I expect that we finsh out the season strong and hopefully place first, but Lee and South County are really tough to beat so it’ll be interesting,” Hennessey said.

Throughout the regular season, the Atoms had a combination of match and tournament play. The team’s record was 1-6 in the district with their single win coming from T.C. Williams, when they beat the Titans by a single stroke in their quad match with Lake Braddock, Lee and T.C. Williams.

“As a team we did pretty poorly and in order to improve the younger guys will need to work hard in the offseason since the seniors won’t be here next year,” senior Michael Hennessey.

“Our regular season should have been better,” Wong said.

The team participated in three different tournaments finishing nineteenth out of 21, fourteenth out of 18 and twenty third out of 25 teams. Wong placed highest at the Glory Days Sports Charger Challenge tournament with a score of 93, finishing in eighty first place.

“We have put in a tremendous amount of work over the past six weeks. We have played a lot of golf. By now, our players should have improved.

Our starters have the potential to post good scores.

It would be really nice for them to be able to do that,” McCormack said.

Q: Where have you previously coached?

A: “I coached the swim team at Marshall High for one year.”

Q: What are your goals for the season?

A: “To focus on team success and team spirit, to build the team freshmen through seniors and to get those key points to win more meets than we lose.”

Q: What are you most excited for?

A: “Working with the athletes on the team to achieve their goals.

Also, the energy of the student athletes and I’m looking forward to a great season with great team spirit.”

Volleyball faces recent losses

By Betsy Kruse and Yesenia Blount Sports Editor and Staff Writer The volleyball team suffered three straight losses last week, against South Lakes, McLean and Westfield, bringing their record to 4-7.

The latest game against Westfield, who is typically thought to have a strong volleyball program, was competitive throughout the whole match.

“We needed a game to warm up, so the first game was not our best, but the second game was closer we won the third and by the fourth game we were all playing together and were able to beat [Westfield] by a lot,” senior Jenny Ha said.

Westfield came back to win the last set, but Ha remains confident because the Bulldogs have played several teams in the Patriot District and defeated them by about the same margin or more.

Their previous game against South Lakes was not as close, the Atoms lost one set to three.

“We had energy in the beginning and then it slowly went downhill which is something we have to work on,” senior Jessica Gallogly said.

In the first set, AHS had a staggering lead and won with a score of 25-19. South Lakes struck back winning the second set by six points. The third set was a back and forth battle where the team only lost by two points. South Lakes won the final set by a greater amount of 20-25.

“They were inconsistent and I do not know why, but it is something for us to work on,” assistant coach Nikolay Petrov said.

The team is remaining optimistic, and is coming together to combine their efforts to remain competitive in district play. So far, all of the Atom’s games have been against schools outside of the Patriot District. Their first district match will be against Lee. “If we can stay strong then we can definitely have a positive season and a good shoot at districts,” head coach Jan Austin said.

The more wins Annandale can obtain from their district rivals, the higher they will be seeded in the district tournament, which will enable them to go further into the post-season.

“If we can have as much energy that we had at the beginning of the season I think we can have a great season,” senior Olivia Franjie said.

“I think we always put up a really good fight with every school we play. You can see that because we never get crushed, we always win at least one match. We just need to push through to the end and learn to keep fighting,” Ha said.

The Atoms played Falls Church last night, but the game ended too late to be covered in this issue.

Q: How do you plan to work with your swimmers during the off season?

A: “The off-season plan would be working on improving each individual athlete’s endurance and conditioning so thay can achieve their goals in the pool during the winter swim season.”

Varsity volleyball schedule Sept. 20 @ Wakefield Sept. 24 vs. Lee Oct. 2 @ Woodson Oct. 11 @ South County Oct. 16 @ Lake Braddock Oct. 18 vs. West Potomac Oct. 22 vs. West Springfield BETSY KRUSE

The 3-3 team remains positive and prepares to defeat district rivals to make a comeback from their three recent losses

The volleyball team has been scrimmaging each other during practice to improve their endurance and skills.

JAROD GOLUB

The girl’s varsity cross country team is currently in the process of training for their biggest races of the season, Oatlands in Leesburg, and the Patriot District Championship in Burke Lake.

Coach Phil Harris has been preparing the team since the beginning of the season on August 2, but a few of the girls haven’t been living up to their own expectations.

“I haven’t been running as well as I’ve been wanting to, but I’ve been trying my hardest,” junior co-captain Kelsey Jones explained. “We haven’t had many meets. Later on in the season I think I’ll do better.”

The workouts and practices have

The girls cross country team has become reliant on many of the new, young runners.

Sept. 22, Oatlands Invitational @ Leesburg

Boys team continues to post better times and be a competitive force

Sept. 25 vs. T.C. Williams, South County, Lee @ T.C. Williams Sept. 29, Great American Invitational @ Cary, North Carolina Oct. 6, Octoberfest Invitational @ The Plains

By Christine Tamir News Editor Despite the loss of former AHS cross country star, Ahmed Bile, the boys cross country team is in good shape for the Oct. 25 Patriot District Championship.

“We’ve been doing pretty fine,” senior co-captain Hung Truong said.

“We’re not as strong as what we’d like to because [we lost] Ahmed Bile.”

However, the boys team is doing well, with the majority of the times under 20 minutes for each three mile race.

“Everyone looks good and has times that are close to each other,” senior co-captain Andrew Boyd said.

Truong reports that most of the guys’ times are within five seconds of each other, establishing consistency.

“We really need lower times in order to be competitive with the district,” Truong said.

The Patriot District is among the most competitive districts in Virginia, and many of the schools pose a challenge to the AHS team.

“I believe we definitely can beat T.C. Wlliams, Robert E. Lee and Thomas Edison,” Truong said.

In order to be able to triumph over the teams, the boys must post times around 17 minutes or below.

“Our fastest guy is [sophomore] Aviad [Gebrehiwot], his times are around 15:30, so he’s down there,” Truong said. “Draven’s times are around 16:40. I definitely have high hopes for regionals.”

Prior to the district and regional competitions, the boys are focusing

Oct. 9, Patriot Invitational @ Burke Lake Oct. 13, Glory Days Invitational @ Bull Run Park Oct. 16, Patriot Festival @ Occocquan Oct. 20, Georgetown Prep Invitational @ Georgetown Prep JAROD GOLUB

By Christine Tamir News Editor

gotten intense and competitive for the girls, because the top 7 girls are going on a trip to North Carolina for a race against girls who are the “top notch” of their schools, according to Jones.

“Right now, we’re doing pretty intense workouts, these next two meets are deciding who’s going to North Carolina, so he’s preparing us as well as he can,” Jones said.

However, a little bit sooner, the girls have their most anticipated meet-Oatlands, in Leesburg.

“Oatlands is the most challenging,” Jones said. “It has lots of hills and it seems like it’s never ending.”

Despite her unfamiliarity with the course, Britton is excited to take on the challenges of running at Oatlands.

“What I’ve heard that it’s definitely the hardest meet that we’ll run this year,” Britton said. “But I think it’ll be good for me. I’m excited to run because I’ve been working hard, and I can push myself.”

Overall, the team is in good shape.

With Coach Harris’ high expectations and tough practices, the girls hope to be in good shape “I think we’re doing really well,” Britton said. “The workouts are going to help us a lot, I think at the end of the season if we all work our hardest, we all want to be under 22, I really think that if we all try hard enough we can do it.”

Coach Harris has been trying to get the girls to reduce their times to under 21 minutes, which is an average of 7 minutes per mile of the 3.1 mile races. Two of the girls, junior Ayah Oweis and freshman Ashley Britton, are close, averaging race times around 22 minutes.

“I think we’re doing pretty good because we have Ayah and Ashley, and they’re both super fast,” Jones said.

Oct. 24 @ T.C. Williams

Varsity cross country schedule

Cross country sets high goals for the season Girls XC focuses on Oatlands to showcase their young talent

17

Oct. 25, Patriot District Championships @ Burke Lake

Senior Hung Truong is one of the top runners.

on Oatlands, which is one of the hardest courses. Coach David O’Hara has been preparing the team with frequent hard workouts.

“What we’re focusing on is really Oatlands, which is basically the hardest course on the east coast, so I’m really excited for that,” Truong said.

Individual members of the team have seen improvement, with faster times and increased endurance.

“I’ve been running pretty well, and I’ve been cutting my times down,” Boyd said.

Captain Truong hopes that the team will win the Patriot District Championship as a team, but recognizes the effort the team will have to give to achieve that.

“We’re going to have to give it our all in order to go to regionals as a team,” Truong said. “We have a fair shot.”

Field hockey defeats Madison On your smartphone, scan the code above using the application “QR Code” to view a story about field hockey’s win.

18 Upcoming movies

ENTERTAINMENT

Sept. 19, 2012

Swift needs to grow up Country music superstar may be gaining fans, but losing her worldwide respect

BY GWEN LEVEY Co Editor-In-Chief

RESIDENT EVIL RETRIBUTIONE: A deadly virus is taking over the Earth, and only the films star, Alice, played by Milla Jovovich, can save the world. This action packed movie takes you on an adventure from New York to Tokeyo, starring Milla Jovovich, and Sienna Guillory.

September 14

STOLEN: Will Montgomery, played by Nicolas Cage, has just been released from prison, and is ready to leave his past behind and restart his life. But within days of getting released, his old friend, Vincent, played by Josh Lucas kidnaps his daughter, and is given one day to collect the $10 million ransom.

September 14

THE PERKS OF BEING A WALLFLOWER: Based on the book by Stephen Chbosky, this coming of age story follows the main character, Charlie, played

by Logan Lerman, through his highs and lows of being a teenager. This movie stars Emma Watson and Logan Lerman.

September 21

In 2008 when I was in the eighth grade, a song from an artist whom I’d never heard before came on the radio: a story about a girl infatuated with a boy who didn’t love her back. Soon every time I heard the sobering melody and light, airy voice, I had it on full blast—in the car, singing along in my room—while managing to ignore a few conspicuous stares from my parents. It struck a chord in me that I felt related to everything I could relate to at 13: boys and the heartbreak I thought they could bring.

But I’m not 13 anymore and neither are the thoughts and feelings that once swarmed through my head at such an awkward age. The sad part is though, that neither is the 16-year-old girl whose songs progressively were my anthems for four years.

Taylor Swift is 22 now and as the years of her career have progressed, so has the age and maturity of her fans. Swift, however, has not seemed to do the same.

I’m not saying that I didn’t originally like the seemingly magical world she managed to create—a bubble of fairytale-esque stories and experiences she surrounded herself with in her songs, in pictures, on tour, and even with her wardrobe. Around me, I felt fellow teenage girls mimicking her in the way that she dressed—those all too familiar cowboy boots paired with a stylish sundress—and even, the way that she talked...especially when it came to guys.

I don’t think there was a single open mic or show that I’d go to where some girl wouldn’t be singing about a boy or mentioning something about how he’d given her “teardrops” on her “guitar.” Soon it just became common knowledge that if a girl was having a problem with a boy in her life, then a posting of one of Swift’s songs would appear somewhere on FaceBook or Twitter. The birth of Taylor Swift’s career practically sparked the birth of every teenage girl’s sudden need to buy a guitar—a sparkly guitar—and start their dream of writing songs, hoping to make it just the way their idol did barely out of puberty.

Like I said, though; I didn’t mind it at first. It was almost empowering in a way, for Swift almost gave us a voice, especially when it came to relationships or heartache.

But to many these days, the singer-songwriter may be hitting the wrong notes and nerves. Taylor Swift: a 22-year-old living in a 12-year-old’s world with an average voice, who hates her ex-boyfriends? What exactly did make her so famous in the first place?

The answer lies in her songs and the messages she used to convey to a million teenage girls trying to find their way in the world. What used to be songs

2008, young Taylor Swift was known for her iconic curls and songs that hit her fans deep by relating to their age.

with relatable lyrics and a country feel has progressed into teeny-bopper anthems by which substance hardly seems to matter. It’s as if Taylor Swift somehow thinks that she can just crank out hit after hit and have it work every time just for her career to stay alive.

In the world of music, this just doesn’t seem to work after a while.

Swift has always seemed to write songs that may have been too mature for her and the experiences of her life—such as when she was 13 writing about falling in love and getting married—but now Swift has seemed to focus on songs not mature enough for her age.

If you don’t agree with me, then take her latest single “We Are Never Ever Getting Back Together.”

After listening to it after anticipating its release over the summer, something seemed to deflate within me: almost as if what had me going for Taylor Swift, song by song, concert after concert, was now dead.

What used to be a planned, well-thought story narrated by Swift’s songs somehow turned into a pointless four minutes of her jumping around her apartment with her friends and bandmates dressed as animals. While I know it was meant to be “cute,” the storytelling that Swift prides herself on was completely missing and honestly, the whole thing made me feel like I’d just wasted four minutes of precious time.

I remember sitting at my computer after the song’s four minute duration, going, “What the heck is she doing? Does she want to ruin her career?” over and over again before it dawned on me: how much can you write about when you were sixteen when you left high school, never went to college, and are practically living in a life of seclusion from the realities of the world?

What can you write about when boys are pretty much all you really know and you think “love” is the

2012, to this day, Taylor Swift has repeatedly been seen with her new straight hair. Her looks have changed with her music.

only thing you can really understand? Yes, Taylor Swift is a celebrity, but why does that have to be all that she knows?

It’s time for Swift to take some time off to really experience the world—and I mean really experience the world, such as go to a small, four-year liberal arts college and surround herself with new experiences that, I feel, will enrich the depth of her music. When she travels, she shouldn’t be going to four-star hotels and barely walking the streets, but experiencing life as an early twenty year old should.

Of course I know Taylor Swift will never lead a “normal” life, but there have been celebrities and musicians who have gone to college and have proved to have much more richer experiences to write about; Alicia Keys went to Juilliard, Emma Watson to Brown and Oxford, Ashley Judd went back to school at Harvard, and so did Tyra Banks for a business degree.

I just don’t want Swift to lose the audience she has already worked so hard to earn. She doesn’t need to go backwards to keep her fans, she needs to keep moving forward.

The one glimmer of hope I had for her new album to debut in late October, Red, is the song “Ronan” that she co-wrote with a mother who lost her four year old son to cancer. It debuted at the telethon event Stand Up the Cancer and from the start was everything that we’d been missing from Swift in the past few years: deep, heartfelt lyrics and a beautiful melody. The song, I have to say, had me in tears by the end.

So I feel like Red could end up going either way: the album could turn out to be a collection of songs that speaks to many of Swift’s eager listeners or a disappointment with only one or two good songs. So far, at least, we know the score is even 1-1.

The New Normal is anything but normal TROUBLE WITH THE CURVE: The best baseball scout in America is starting to age, and refuses to admit it. When the Atlanta Braves start to question his judgement, he turns to someone he never thought he would; his daughter. Together, they discover themselves, and the meaning of family.

September 21

THE HOUSE AT THE END OF THE STREET: After getting a divorce, Sarah, played by Elisabeth Shue, and her daughter, Elissa, played by The Hunger Games star; Jennifer Lawrence, move to their dreamhouse in an upscale community. Soon afterwards, unexplainable things begin to happen, and they make a chilling discovery about the house next door.

September 21

DREDD 3: This futuristic movie takes place in a barren wasteland that was once America. This action packed movie follows Dredd, a newage cop, played by Karl Urban, and his trainee, Cassandra, played by Olivia Thurlby, into the depths of the drug lord’s neighborhood and must fight to survive.

September 21

Concert review of Owl City at the 9:30 Club On your smartphone, scan this code using the application “QR Code” to read a movie review of Think Like a Man.

NBC’s The New Normal airs Tuesdays at 9:30/8:30 Central

BY EMILY BLANK Entertainment Editor With the success of his famed show Glee, Ryan Murphy comes up with another unique show to hook audiences with. NBC debuted Murphy’s new project, The New Normal, starring Andrew Rannells, Georgia King, Ellen Barkin, and Justin Bartha.

The show made headlines before it even premiered due to its plotline. Murphy crosses boundaries when depicting a gay couple that decides they are ready to take the next step in having a child following one brief accident; they find the perfect surrogate in Goldie, a single mother and waitress who arrives to Los Angeles after escaping Ohio from her cheating boyfriend and ungrateful nagging mother. The couple becomes fascinated with Goldie’s dreams of wanting to attend law school and hope that she call fufill theirs.

This idea of a ‘normal’ family did not sit

well with others. It caused so much uproar that even a Utah NBC affiliate rejected the show. The fact that The New Normal is introducing a new kind of family, one with two fathers for this instance, seems to be just too much for America to swallow.

Eventually Goldie’s mother comes to find her and leaves audiences wondering if this brilliant idea will work out, and what will happen next. The new series keeps viewers in a humored state and is definitely something gay couples today can relate to.

One can even draw parallels from Glee to The New Normal. Ellen Barkin, who plays Goldie’s mother, personality is very similar to Glee’s own Jane Lynch. The gay couple on the other hand, are complete opposites from one another. David, who is played by Justin Bartha—an actor you may recognize from The Hangover—is one of the men part of the show’s dominating same-sex couple. David is the more masculine of the two while his partner Bryan—who is played by Andrew Rannells—acts notably more flamboyant.

With Murphy’s new approach at a different kind of an all-American family. It shows others that there really isn’t such a thing as ‘perfect,’ or even ‘normal,’ because America is changing by the minute, and family sitcoms are too.

Entertainment

Sept. 5, 2012

The Boss sells out Fenway Bruce Springsteen and The E Street Band travel worldwide on the 2012 Wrecking Ball Fall Tour

This past Friday, my mom and I attended Bruce Springsteen’s concert at Nationals Park.

As general admissions ticket holders, we arrived at the venue at 2 p.m. to pick up our wristbands and returned at 4:30 p.m. to line up. We entered in a single file line and listened to The E Street Band’s sound check. As we waited, we talked to those around us about their previous Bruce concert experiences from the past 40 years. As time passed, I became even more excited about what I was about to experience.

Since Bruce often takes requests from the crowd during shows. My parents and I made two posters for their personal favorites, “Wreck on the Highway” and “If I Should Fall Behind”.

Both posters were met with significant approval from the fans since neither song had been played yet on this tour. Unfortunately Bruce didn’t play our requested songs, but I got to see our posters

COURTESY OF RACHEL BERGEN

By Rachel Bergen AHS Alumni Class of 12’

on the jumbotron multiple times, so that almost made up for it.

My mom and I stood just to the left of center stage, in front of guitarist Nils Lofgren. To our right, there was a small platform where Bruce stood throughout the show. With six rows of fans in front and four rows to our right, our spots were

literally perfect. The band took the stage around 8:25 p.m. and didn’t stop until close to midnight.

Just shy of his sixty-third birthday, Springsteen and The E Street Band are considered one of the best live acts in music. After attending this concert, I have to say, that is not an opinion, it’s a fact. The band rarely stopped between songs except when Bruce wanted to talk to the audience, otherwise the songs just kept coming. At one point I noticed guitarist Stevie Nicks sit down in attempt to take a break, only to see Springstreen run over to him and yell and motion for him to get up. Some highlights from the show included Bruce putting a boy not much older than five up on his shoulders to sing “Waitin’ On a Sunny Day” and the band’s video tribute during “Tenth Avenue Freeze-Out” to Clarence Clemons, the E Street saxophonist who passed away in June of 2011. Jake Clemons, Clarence’s nephew, has taken the spot as the band’s saxophonist since Clarence passed away.

All in all, Friday’s Springsteen concert was an incredible experience. Other bands strive to reach the level of energy and excitement that comes so naturally to Springsteen. Every single one of the 39,000 fans in the stadium followed his every move, and just like Bruce, they smiled the entire time. It’s hard to say who had a better time Friday night, the Boss or his fans.

19 Upcoming concerts

30H!3 Tues., Oct. 2 Ramshead Live!

Two Door Cinema Club Tues. & Wed., Oct. 2 & 3 The 9:30 Club

The Voice vs. Idol vs. X-Factor

Three popular music shows all about finding the next big artist? Is there really even a difference?

Virgin Mobile Fest Sat., Oct. 6 Merriweather Post Pavilion

By Emily Blank and Sarah Bergen Entertainment Editors Unless you’ve been living under a rock, then you are probably familiar with the shows American Idol, The Voice and The X-Factor. Each show is out on a search for the next big superstar, while using an A-list panel of superstar judges themselves.

A little over a decade ago, American Idol debuted on FOX, becoming the first reality TV show singing competition to air on national television. For years Idol topped television ratings with its unforgettable panel of judges; Simon Cowell, Paula Abdul and Randy Jackson. They’re also known for their popular winners, Kelly Clarkson, Carrie Underwoof, Jordin Sparks, Kris Allen and Scotty McCreery.

However, as the seasons progressed, changes took place, including the biggest change; Cowell’s departure from Idol.

Cowell had a new project in the works, (The X-Factor) a show similar to Idol, except instead of the judges only critiquing contestants, each judge mentors its contestants in particular categories, fitting to their personal song styling. This show is known for creating the now famous boy band One Direction. The five boys were mentored by Cowell on season seven in August 2010. Even though the boys placed third in the competition, they are now

one of the most famous boy bands in the world.

However, just as Simon was getting ready to showcase his new project, NBC too had a similar show under wraps, The Voice.

The Voice became NBC’s new big hit reality singing competition. Just like the X-Factor, The Voice’s judges form teams and mentor the competitors they had chosen, except this show has its own unique aspects to it as well. The Voice gives aspiring artists the opportunity to have an audition without physically being seen. The show calls this a “blind audition,” this way, the artists can win over the judges solely with their voice and not mattering about appearance. The judges are turned around facing the audience while the singer takes the stage. When the judges like what they hear, they push their button and their chair turns around. If two or more judges turn, the artist must pick who’s team they want to go on. If one chair turns, the artist is automatically on that team, and if none turn, then that artists dream’s end there. In the end, each judge can only have 16 people per team.

With three similar shows with the same concept premiering around the same time, it

becomes a problem for some.

When The Voice debuted on NBC, viewers were drawn to their choice of judges. Christina Aguilera, Adam Levine, Cee Lo Green and Blake Shelton. All very successful entertainers that are still very active and popular today.

Idol began to up its ante on its own judges after Cowell parted ways. Since then they had signed Jennifer Lopez and Steven Tyler, who have just recently parted ways with Idol as well, leaving them on a star-studded search for their newest addition of judges.

The X-Factor has just signed their two new judges, Demi Lovato and Britney Spears, both well-known pop singers in todays world. They replaced Paula Abdul and Nicole Scherzinger after being fired by Cowell himself.

It seems that the competition between these three shows has gotten serious and is not over.

With the shows premiering in the next few weeks, the stakes are high and each show will be fighting for the top ratings. Which show will you watch?

We suggest watching The Voice, not only does it seem to have better performers, but better judges and a better style of picking contestants.

Season 4 of Glee makes its way back to TV

Owl City leaves listeners upset with typical beats and everyday pop tunes

By Rachel Tecle and Gwen Levey Staff Writer

The new season of Glee kicked off this past Thursday with a preview of the main characters’ lives after high school.

It starts off with a look into Rachael Berry’s new life at NYADA, with her being constantly pushed by her dance instructor, played by Kate Hudson, it finally gives Rachael the hard time that viewers thought she deserved. After having everything handed to her at McKinley, she finally gets a reality check.

We also get a glance back at McKinley, where Kurt gets hung up on his success in high school that he can’t seem to move forward. After much deliberation with his boyfriend, Blane, he decides

to move to New York.

We’re also introduced to some interesting, new characters such as Marly, the daughter of the morbidly obese lunch lady who puts the Glee Club back in their nonjudgmental state of mind.

We also meet Jake Puckerman, the half brother of Noah Puckerman who displays a similar attitude but doesn’t show the potential that his brother did. This is the show’s way of

Celebri-

reusing characters that have already left the show, for Puckerman is expected to make another appearance to see his younger brother later on in the season.

The other interesting part about this new season is that the subject matter seems to mature with the age of its viewers. Kate Hudson’s rejuvenation of a new dance, which was rather erotic and controversial, shows the maturity of the show as Rachel goes off to college—no more high school, teenage angst for this diva!

With pristine characters and dramatically changed lives, this season of Glee is likely to portray many new surprises. Although, like most of the episodes, the lack of depth of the subject matter may prove to have several negative consequences when it comes to elaborating on further characterization as the season progresses.

Cartel Thurs., Oct. 11 Jammin’ Java

Zac Brown Band Fri., Oct. 12 Jiffy Lube Live

Eric Church Fri., Oct. 26 GMU Patriot Center

TheRuinCity Fri., Oct. 26 Jammin’ Java

Grouplove Mon. & Tues., Oct. 29 & 30 The 9:30 Club

zSzUzDzOzKzUz

Get inside your favorite celebrities’ heads

Motion City Soundtrack Thurs., Nov. 8 The 9:30 Club

“With so many pepple saying it couldn’t be done, all it takes is a little imagination.”

—Michael Phelps

“Be appreciative of what’s right with your life. In your gratitude is the power to make it even better.”

—Shay Mitchell

“Dont live every day as if it were your first. Live every day as if it were your last.”

—Paulo Coelho

“See the thing about me is.. there’s never going to be anyone that tells me what I can and can’t say.”

—P!nk

WEBSUDOKU.COM

Review on DC 101’s Kerfuffle Music Festival On your smartphone, scan this code using the application “QR Code”to read a review of DC 101’s Kerfuffle Music Festival at Jiffy Lube Live.

WEEKEND

Annandale on a budget Movie Theater: University Mall Theaters

Gas prices are on the rise, and it is especially tough for students who are expected to pay themselves to fill their tanks. Ravensworth Auto is a smaller station very close to AHS that offers gas at a lesser price. The station accepts cash and credit cards, making it very accessible. The next time you are in need of gas but are not looking to spend as much as usual, stop here.

You know the drill: it is the perfect date night, or maybe a rainy Saturday and you are looking for something to do, but when you consider the movies you stop.

With tickets, popcorn and a drink you will have already spent $20 alone. Luckily, University Mall Theaters is a cheaper option to see your favorite films. The theater shows movies that have recently been in theaters, but not the newest releases, which allows them to charge less. Tickets are normally $4, but on Tuesdays they are only $2. Concessions are also considerably less expensive than chain movie theaters. Check this out next time you are 10659 Braddock Road seeing a show if you are Fairfax, VA 22032 looking to spend a little www.universitymalltheaters.com less money. for showtimes

4321 Ravensworth Road Annandale, VA 22003

ANDREA MELENDEZ

The Renaissance Festival: This huge, nation-wide event showcases life centuries ago: during the Renaissance period.

When you attend, you will be able to see jousting matches, eat chicken legs with your hands, buy handmade items of the period and play ancient games. For anyone who enjoys history or just a good time, the Renaissance Festival is a must.

Where: Crownsville, MD When: Weekends through Oct. 21 Cost: $15 under age 16, $17 ages 16 and up

Gas: Ravensworth Auto

Bowling Alley: AMF This local bowling alley offers 48 lanes, an arcade and billiards for a fun night with friends. Two games and shoe rental costs just $12.50, which is worth several hours of active entertainment. There is a built in restaurant that serves traditional bowling food such as burgers, wings, fries, pizza and fountain drinks. AMF is an affordable option for a good time any day of the week.

2013 class bulletin Senior “Spirit Packs” are $40 and include senior-specific spirit wear.

Coffee Shop: Beanetics It may seem like the only coffee shop in the area of any credibility is Starbucks, but this funky cafe begs to differ. They offer brewed coffee, espresso and lattes all for under $3 for a size small, which is significantly cheaper than major chains.

They also offer iced coffee, iced tea, smoothies, hot chocolate and more. Food items served include muffins, scones, bagels, coffee cakes, chocolate and ice cream. In addition to drinks and food, Beanetics chooses and roasts their own coffee beans for all of their drinks, using beans fromaround the world. The cafe is located conveniently in the Annandale 7028 Columbia Pike Shopping Center near Annandale, VA 22003 Silverado.

Mon-Thurs: 7 a.m.-8 p.m.

Fri-Sat: 7 a.m.-9 p.m.

Sun: 8:30 a.m.- 6 p.m.

ANDREA MELENDEZ

ANDREA MELENDEZ

The Green Festival: For all the eco-friendly students out there, this is the festival to check out.

The Green Fetival is a nation-wide event that is focused totally on environmentally conscious living.

There will be guest speakers, yoga, organic food and drinks, a marketplace, art demos and more.

Come out to this festival to support the green movement and to have a fun time, too.

Where: D.C. Convention Center When: Sept. 29-30 Cost: Free for under age 18, $10 ages 18 and up

ROWAN SHARTEL

GREENFESTIVALS.ORG

PHOTO ILLUSTRATION

BY ROWAN SHARTEL

4245 Markham St. Annandale, VA 22003 Mon-Thurs, Sun: 9:30 a.m.-12 a.m.

Fri-Sat: 9:30 a.m.-2 a.m.

Diner: Jukebox Diner If you are looking for a throwback, Jukebox Diner is your solution. When you step into the casual eatery, it immediately feels like a scene from Grease with its retro environment. The dishes are large portions, and most entrees range from $6-$11. The menu is extremely extensive, with breakfast, lunch and dinner.

The breakfast dishes are the favorite here, including many different eggs, ham scramble, huevos rancheros, waffles, omelettes, bagels, skillets and eggs benedict.

For a cheap and quick meal, Jukebox Diner is a good option because it is very close to AHS and has tons of different options. It is also open late on weekends for a meal after a football game with 7039 Columbia Pike friends.

Annandale, VA 22003 Mon-Fri: 7 a.m.-10 p.m.

Sat: 7 a.m.-12 a.m.

Chinese Food: A & J If you frequent Chinese restaurants in the area, you are probably familiar with entree prices ranging from about $9-$15, depending on the dish. While this is fairly reasonable as sit-down restaurants go, for students it can sometimes add up.

Luckily, A& J Chinese restaurant is a perfect fit. The restaurant specializes in “tapas-style” dishes, which are smaller plates that are easy to share with friends. These plates range from about $3-$8, so they are an affordable option for a meal with friends.

A & J serves breakfast, which is unique for a Chinese restaurant. Some of the dishes they serve at this meal include layered pancakes and scallion pancakes. The only downsides to A & J are that it is cash-only, there is limited seating and it can fill up quickly.

Otherwise, 4316 Markham Street it is an Annandale, VA 22003 affordable Mon-Fri: 11:30 a.m.-9 p.m. option to Sat-Sun: 10 a.m.-9 p.m. check out.

Graduation countdown: 267 days There will be a class meeting today. Change to donate is appreciated.

Cuisine Critiques Restaurant Guide

Flame N’ Grill offers a variety of healthy choices and alternatives like the meal above. This is a steak salad with choices of fresh vegetables, tomato salsa, crispy onions and juicy kabob style grilled steak.

By Rowan Shartel and Andrea Melendez

Flame N’ Grill opens its doors Tutti Frutti On your smartphone, scan the above code using the application “QR code” to view an exclusive article about a new fro-yo opening.

Subway and Chipotle have got some friendly competition, as Flame N’ Grill’s unique taste and look has received some positive feedback. This healthy and tasteful restaurant was recently opened in late August and has all the varieties for a delicious time.

The Flame N’ Grill displays some casual dining options as the restaurant offers “to go” or dining in. When we first went into the restaurant, we were immediately reminded of a more modern Subway decor with wooden seats and tables, and the choice of fresh vegetables and ingredients to create the perfect meal.

As we got closer and saw the employees, we were pleasantly surprised to be greeted with friendliness and quick service. The man was quick to offer different choices that would appeal to our taste buds. We appreciated his patience as we got to learn more about the menu and he suggested some tasty combinations that we knew would be future

choices.

From mozzarella cheese to sauteed mushrooms, the combinations are endless.

We went with a simple steak salad that had tomato salsa, lettuce and freshly cut onions.

The meat had a kabob grilled taste, and the vegetables were crisp and cool. The mission of the owner of this restaurant was to create healthy options for the universal customer and he has certainly succeeded. It’s the classic combination of healthy and casual.

Whether its for a pre-football game dinner with your friends or a more family-oriented meal, it’s the place to be.

Flame N’ Grill

A

6920 Bradlick Shopping Ctr Annandale, VA 22003

– Photos by Andrea Melendez

COURTESY OF UNIVERSITY MALL THEATRES

Save your cash and find fun, inexpensive options in the AHS area

RENFEST.ORG

Upcoming festivals and events

ROWAN SHARTEL

20

Sept. 19, 2012