Issue 11

A

ANNANDALE HIGH SCHOOL

the VOLUME #59 ISSUE 11

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TUESDAY, MAY 27, 2014

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Waiting for FCPS decision New start time proposals become subject of Schools Board meetings throughout the end of May and beginning of June

EDITORIALS

has a student reflect on her time in the IB Diploma program See page 3.

BY BERTA TARQUI Co-Editor in Chief

covers the SOLs and new comic book club See page 4.

HEALTH looks at the dangers of energy drinks See page 7.

IN-DEPTH sees where graduating seniors are going to college See pages 10-11.

ENTERTAINMENT

PHOTO ILLUSTRATION BY BERTA TARQUI

FCPS will begin holding meetings on May 19 through June 11 to discuss the possible start times and to let parents, students and community members to contribute feedback about the change.

Meetings will be held from 7 to 9 p.m., besides for one on June 7 which will commence at 10 a.m.

FCPS has created four options for the meetings to discuss.

Some of these images of the times have circulated around social media sites such as Twitter and caused some backlash from some students who would rather stick to the 7:20 a.m. start time and others who support the decision to amend the times.

“Pushing the time back would help me get more sleep and maybe cause me to be more alert in the morning instead of groggy and tired,” sophomore Lydia Teferra said. “But that really depends on what time I sleep the day before.”

Teferra takes the bus to school and has to wake up by 6 a.m. so she can catch the bus that comes at 6:35 a.m. Buses can make it to school as early as 6:, with school beginning at 7:20 a.m. Students who rely on the school for transportation will be the ones mainly affected if FCPS decides to change the school times.

In March 2013, the FCPS board gave the duty of researching the possibility of changing the times to Children’s National Medical Center (CNMC).

Children’s National Medical Center completed and presented their study in the effects of later start times for students to the FCPS board.

The sleep study cost around $143,000 and investigated whether

NEWS

There are many things that will be affected by the time changes. Among these are sports and transportation.

gets students on this years’ WMZQ Fest held at Jiffy Lube Live See page 12.

“Start times” continued on page 5

Clarification of in-state tuition story FAST-FORWARD to next issue

The A-Blast will be covering Back to School and the start of the new school year.

Sports will be taking a look days until at the summer graduation workouts for Fall sports.

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Letter from the Editors-in-chief of The A-Blast newspaper

BY JAROD GOLUB AND BERTA TARQUI Co-Editors in Chief The A-Blast would just like to clarify that the instate tuition being offered under Attorney General Mark Herring’s state action is being extended to students who have been approved under the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals program, not the DREAM Act. The DREAM Act is a bill that was proposed in 2001, but never passed.

The DACA program is the implementation of President Obama’s Executive Order, given on June 15, 2012. Obama created this program because the

DREAM Act was not passed. This order directed the Immigration and Customs Enforcement Agency on how to best use its resources. The president directed the agency to focus on deporting criminals and potential terrorists, rather than using agency money to deport undocumented children.

In order to be eligible for Deferred action, a person must have resided in the United States since 2007 among other requirements. Any currently undocumented students will not benefit from the state action taken by Herring. In-state tuition is only being extended to previously undocumented students who have been approved under the DACA program.

The action taken by Herring is related to the DREAM Act because the state of Virginia is attempting to fulfil what the proposed bill intended to do, just on a state level. Because Congress has not

passed the bill, certain states are giving these people in-state tuition because they now have some kind of legal status due to the Deferred action program.

There are many states that agree with the proposed DREAM Act, so they have taken similar actions.

It is important to realize that DACA does not provide financial aid to these students. It does not provide permanent legal immigration status or create a path to citizenship. It is meant to provide a social security number and a work permit for two years and now in-state tuition in certain states.

Again, the Editors-in-Chief of The A-Blast would like to apologize for any confusion. We do our best to provide the most accurate information possible to our audience. Unfortunately, that did not happen in our last issue and there was some misunderstanding.

Standards of Learning tests reduced Changes to SOL tests lead to increase in dislike at AHS and beyond

Tuesday, May 27 – EPF Guest Speaker (All Blocks) (Clausen Hall) – NEHS Awards (W8 Flex) (Bistro)

BY JAROD GOLUB Co-Editor in Chief

– 2:30 PM - 4:30 PM - Volleyball Green Day (Main Gym) – 5:00 PM - 10:00 PM - AHS Boosters Boys’ Basketball Spring League (Main Gym) – 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM - Math Honor Society Inductions (Clausen Hall) – 6:30 PM - Softball vs. Osbourn Park: JV (A); Varsity (Ossian)

JAROD GOLUB

– 5:00 p.m. - Track & Field vs. W. Springfield, T.C. Williams, W. Potomac (West Potomac) – Boys’/Girls’ Lax Regional Tournament (Schedule/Location TBD) The Auxiliary Gym has been set up for SOL testing, as have some of the computer labs.

This year, SOL testing comes on the heels of a decision by the Virginia General Assembly to change the number of SOLs that students will be required to take.

Governor Terry McAuliffe signed a measure into law saying that students will have to take five fewer exams than in previous years. The number of exams for students will be lowered from 22 exams spread out from third to 11th grade, to 17 exams. All of the removed exams are being taken from the ones that students take in elementary and middle schools.

This measure, along with a

recent study released by Virginia Commonwealth University, shows an increase in dislike for the standardized tests among Virginia residents. The poll was a phone survey of 800 adults in late December and early January of this year.

In the survey, seven out of ten Virginians said that increased testing hurts or doesn’t affect student performance.

The students and faculty at AHS mirror the feelings put forth in the survey.

“What does a kid really get out of the SOLs? These tests are for the state,” English teacher Julia Hanneman said. “[A student] gets something out of their class, not from taking a test. A test is an assessment, not the experience.”

“I believe that standardized testing is harmful to the student body at large because of the many negatives of it,” junior Rasel Abutaa said. “For instance, we have to take days out of class to study for things that we’ll never need in our lives and that don’t contribute “SOL’s” continued on page 5

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“I think they should because guys and girls should be treated equally.”

— Nicole Ruano freshman

“Duh! It’s not like girls get attracted to [boy’s] armpit hair.

If girls can do it, so should boys.”

— Marem Atef sophomore

“Yes, because there’s nothing wrong with it.

They have as much of a right to wear it as girls do.”

— Mahlet Ayele sophomore

“[Boys] have the freedom to choose and the administraters should think about equality.”

— Julia Quizon sophomore

“Guys should be able to wear tank tops like girls can. It’s equality!”

— Amber Scaff senior

–Compiled by Phuong Nguyen

Corrections:

On page 9, the traditional Korean hanbok dress was spelled incorrectly

QUOTE COLLECTION

Tank tops expose bias

Administrators target ‘provocative’ shoulder revealing tank tops

BY PHUONG NGUYEN Editorials Editor Warmer weather and the excitement for summer is a signal for many AHS students to shed some layers of clothing. For junior Drew Hendrickson, showing bare skin and underarm hair caused him to get in trouble with the administration.

During his lunch period earlier this month, Hendrickson was pulled aside by an administrator and told to cover up his tank top. He agreed to put on a sweater; however he was told that it wasn’t enough to satisfy the dress code.

Hendrickson was also told that his tank top revealed armpit hair that may provoke inappropriate reactions from other students.

After his unpleasant encounter at lunch, Hendrickson soon realized a stark contrast in the dress code –the rules have a double standard. The following highlights a startling case of gender bias within the administration.

“Why wasn’t [the girl sitting next to me] also pulled over?” Hendrickson said. For some reason they have a rule where girls are allowed to wear tank tops but guys aren’t.”

Hendrickson is referring to his friend junior Katie Pozdol whom with three other female friends was surprisingly not pulled over by any administrators.

In a recent interview, Principal Vincent Randazzo stated that both boys and girls have to cover up when wearing a tank top so that it’s not “intrusive to the academic environment.”

However, the way that the rule is being enforced a suggests a different scenario. The administration won’t even allowed boys to continuing wearing tank tops even if they cover up.

At least seven other male students

were asked to change their shirts around the same time as Hendrickson’s incident. Many girls were allowed to freely wear their tank tops, despite the crackdown.

Sophomore Will Chase is one of those five students. Chase was given a detention by two administrators.

“As long as my clothes are appropriate, I should be able to wear what I want,” Chase said.

When wearing tank tops, male students are only showing a couple of inches more of arm skin. They’re not purposefully trying to suggest any inappropriate provocations while wearing tank tops.

Hendrickson was following the acceptable “three finger rule” when he was reprimanded by administrators, who didn’t even bother to check if his shoulder strap was long enough.

When looking at the provisions stated in the SR&R rulebook, Hendrickson isn’t directly breaking any rules.

According to rulebook, students are not allowed to wear clothing and accessories that “expose cleavage, private parts, the midriff, or undergarments...”

Nowhere do the rules specifically state that tank tops are prohibited in school environments. And besides, when exactly did the no tank top rule come to play in the first place?

The administration is clearly oblivious towards the dress code situation. If they haven’t noticed, boys don’t have cleavage or want to scandalously expose their bodies in front of the whole school. What “private parts” can they possibly be showing by wearing a tank top?

In the meantime, girls across AHS are parading around the halls with noticeable short-shorts and spaghetti straps, while some boys are wearing jeans that are down to their knees.

And what about athletes that wear muscle tees to practice? Why are they allowed to wear their apparel and not ordinary students?

For the most part, since the

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

Days of Appreciation On your smartphone, scan the above code using the application “QR Code” to read about “appreciation holidays.”

Senior Drew Hendrickson is violating the dress code while sophomore Sarah Woodward is not.

administration is too focused on the crackdown on tank tops, they don’t realize the extent of other potential violations It’s clear that the administration draws its decision whether to pull students over for wearing tank tops based on body types and overall looks.

“We try to approach each case equally and independently,” Randazzo said.

As convincing as it sounds, the facts say otherwise.

Moreover, the administration has taken unrealistically extreme measures on male students that wear tank tops.

Hendrickson was warned with a weeklong suspension, if he were to wear a tank top again.

It doesn’t make any sense for a student that wears a tank top to have a punishment equivalent to a student that tries to deal drugs in school.

The administration claims to have the authority to enforce the “no tank top rule” for male students based on a hidden clause in the SR&R rulebook.

The clause states that the provisions under the dress code section of the rulebook are “not limited.”

However, if the administration is going to enforce a “new rule,” they should at least make it clear to students.

The only place where students can see the rule is under an obscure file on the AHS website.

Even though there is technically a rule written down on school policy, it’s not right for it to have different implications on male and female students.

If every boy at AHS is not allowed to freely wear a tank top, then it’s only fair if the same rule is enforced on girls. Rules are meant to be equal, not skewed and biased towards different genders.

Discontent over the crackdown on tank tops has led to an outpouring of support among students, especially female students. A total of 314 students and counting have shown their support in reforming the dress code for fairness by signing petitions circulating around the school.

In the meantime, why don’t we all shave our armpits to satisfy the administrators?

Appreciate your custodians Have you ever thought about your custodians?

BY SACHA CAMERON Special to The A-Blast They’re all around. We see them every day, but we never speak to them.

Often unnoticed but always essential, custodians are the unsung heroes of schools everywhere.

Custodians perform a job that most people wouldn’t do but is very important to the school and those who use it. They perform a job that essentially consists of cleaning up after teenagers –hundreds of teenagers. We all know how messy teenagers are, sometimes having the nerve to throw their trash in the halls.

Being a custodian is no walk in the park.

Custodians get to school earlier and stay later than most everyone at the school. When there are functions after school and on weekends, they must stay to clean up. It is a job that demands much time and hard work, but it often underappreciated or not well noticed.

The truth is, custodians are an integral part of the environment in our school as well as any other staff member.

Imagine a school without custodians. The floors in the hallways and classrooms would be dirty and the cafeteria would

From left to right: Son Nguyen, Luan Tran and Charles Akoto enjoy their gift from NHS members.

be a mess.

There are many things that contribute towards a healthy and effective learning environment and among them is the cleanliness of the classroom as well as the rest of the school. Without the hard work of our custodians, coming to school would really be an unpleasant experience.

We are all guilty of ignoring their efforts and simply walking past them, but becoming more aware of just how much they do for each of us in this school can perhaps change our community as a whole.

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

What is your opinion on administrators unfairly enforcing the dress code?

PHOTO ILLUSTRATION BY PHUONG NGUYEN

Do you believe that boys should be able to freely wear tank tops to school?

May 27, 2014

PHUONG NGUYEN

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EDITORIALS

For many of us, it is not that we do not appreciate what the custodians do, but that we do not show them our thanks.

Our custodians deserve recognition for all the hard work and effort they put in year round to keep AHS running.

There are days for the appreciation of our teachers and administrators, but where is the day reserved to show appreciation for our custodians? How often do they receive a word of thanks or even a second glance?

As a way to help show appreciation for our custodians, AHS’s chapter of the National Honor Society put together a

Custodian Appreciation Day event held May 23 in the Bistro.

Members of NHS brought in food and signed thank you cards for the custodians as well as said a few words of thanks for their continuous hard work.

Another way to show appreciation for our custodians is to make an effort to keep things clean both in classrooms and the cafeteria. Instead of being a child and throwing food around or leaving trash on the table, get up and throw it in a trash can where it belongs.

Instead of making a mess in classrooms and sticking gum under every table-like surface, take the exta two seconds to throw it away. It would make the lives of custodians easier and the school a cleaner place.

Keep in mind that average full time custodian in FCPS only makes around $30,000 per year. New custodians or those that work in shifts make even less.

With that in mind, students should not take advantage of custodians because they get paid nowhere near enough for the amount of work they put in.

The next time you’re in the cafeteria, hallway, or classroom. Take an extra second to say thank you or even just send a smile to a custodian.

We should all show a little extra love for these staff members who never ask for thanks but really do deserve it.

Staff Editors in Chief: Jarod Golub Berta Tarqui Managing Editor: Chelsea Alfonso Editorials Editors: Phuong Nguyen Sarah Metzel Copy Editor: Linus Bumbaca In-Depth Editors: Alexandra Zernik Cayley Byrne Sports Editors: Marife Baragano Sabrina Hawa Sports Xtra Editor: Daniel Yenetega People Editor: Biruk Negash Weekend Editor: Erin Johnson

International Editor: Summer Ayoub Entertainment Editors: Nuhami Mandefro Conrad Shartel Lifestyles Editors: Soulisa Pathammavong Marilyn Rivas Health Editor: Nancy Evora Photography Editors: Kiara Patino Julie Swenton Art Editor: Bailey Oliver Academics Editor: Kailyn Garay Alaina Garay Web Editor/Master: Jared Lefbom Head of Social Media: Andrew Gonzalez Head Videographer: Rahel Tecle Ad Manager: Akrem Idris

Circulation Manager: Zeke Yonas Staff Writers: Destiny Gammon Omnia Saed Joe Sehrer Aashna Viswanathan Benny Le Soulisa Pathammavong Efstathia Carayiannis Mery Berhene Luka Fernandez Marin Masson Noah Nelson Cynthia Weiner Sean To Tara El-Achi Yesenia Blount Hussein Salem Arzoo Marzi Photographer: Andrew Nunez Videographer: Ashley Britton Adviser: Alan Weintraut

Annandale High School 4700 Medford Dr.

Vol. 59 No.11 May 27, 2014

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, 2014.

EDITORIALS

May 27, 2014

Study first, party second College students neglect their studies in favor of wild parties

What are you looking forward to most about college?

BY SARAH METZEL Editorials Editor

“I’m looking forward to marching band because it’s a lot different from high school band, and you get more independence.”

— Xavian Henson freshman SARAH METZEL

Partying. It is one of the most coveted rites of passage in college.

Many high school graduates are ready to take a break from the stressful life they led in high school by partying every day.

The reality of the situation is that the people who are partying every day in college are most likely failing their classes.

The University of Iowa has been ranked No. 1 on the Princeton Review’s list of the top 20 party schools in the U.S. Traditionally, West Virginia University has held that position, but it was passed by Iowa in 2013.

As a generation raised on scenes from crazy college movies, our expectations of college parties are ridiculously high and totally misleading.

The truth about college parties is that a very small percentage of them are “keggers”— parties with large kegs of beer.

According to the Core Institute, 73 percent of college students drink occasionally. Increasingly, colleges are requiring that incoming freshmen take an online course about alcohol awareness before they even arrive on campus.

Don’t get me wrong, there is

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The University of Iowa reached the top of the Princeton Review’s list of America’s top 20 party schools.

nothing wrong with partying it up on the weekends when you do not have classes or homework to complete. But those who go to college just for the wild nights obviously do not have a very bright future.

For one thing, it’s unfair to your parents. A study done by Public Agenda showed that 63 percent of students who graduate from college received some kind of financial help from their family.

In high school, the government is paying for your education, but it is a

complete waste of money to fail out of college. Parents spend so much of their time worrying and saving for your future, it’s the least you can do to try your hardest and pass your classes.

People who pay their own way through college by working part time are less likely to party and get mediocre grades.

The dedication and determination it requires to pay your own way through college is not compatible with the party-animal lifestyle.

This is one reason for parents to let their kids pay for part of their college tuition. Another vital step to being completely independent is being able to support yourself financially. Holding a part time job while in college teaches one about time management and dependability.

As the seniors leave for college in the fall, it is vital that they take with them the diligent study habits that enabled them to be accepted in the first place. Study first, party second.

“Meeting new people because I’m used to Annandale people. No one’s going to George Mason so I won’t see anyone I know.”

— Megan Dinh senior

“I plan on studying film in college, and I’m excited about internships and study abroad opportunities”

Senior reflects on IB experience students like young adults, leading to a different type of relationship between peer and teacher that is built on more trust, which allowed me to get to know my teachers as people.

And the question remains – is it worth it? Of course it is. I came into a lot of success concerning the college application process this year, and I know it is in no small part due to the IB Diploma. I applied to 12 colleges this year, and I was fortunate enough to get accepted into nine of them.

I was accepted into the University of Virginia as an Echols Scholar and a recipient of the Flagship Ridley Scholarship as well as the College of William and Mary as a WMSURE scholar and recipient of the William and Mary Scholars Award which pays for the full cost of in-state tuition and fees and Boston University’s Honors College.

It’s possible that I could have gotten into those schools if I hadn’t pursued the diploma track, but it’s highly unlikely that I would have received the honors that I did.

Besides, my EE (Extended Essay) and TOK classes gave me interesting things to talk about during my college interviews.

That’s what the IBDP does – it gives you things to think about and talk about. It elevates your status because, quite simply, you do more and you’re more well-rounded than the average high school student.

So, IB Diploma, thanks for the sleepless nights, the stress, the nonstop exams for three weeks and no college credit.

But more importantly, thank you for the intellectual enrichment, the community of bright, motivated people who have pushed me to be a better person, the great relationships I’ve had with my teachers and for teaching me more about myself.

Student discusses pros and cons of the IB diploma and gives advice to rising seniors

BY CHRISTINE TAMIR Special to the A-Blast Most students face indecision about whether to pursue the IBDP or not — I never did. I was completely set on the diploma track as a freshman.

I completed the MYP certificate as a sophomore, which is the precursor to the IB Diploma.

Despite taking honors courses during my first two years and completing the MYP certificate, nothing quite prepared me for the actual two years of the IBDP. I entered my junior year bright-eyed with my completed summer projects in hand and hugely underestimating the amount of work that I would have for all of my classes that year.

During the year, my backpack swelled to enormous proportions. I had so many binders that placing them all into my backpack would have caused it to split, so I always carried one or two in hand. It’s possible that my backpack served as a metaphor for the knowledge I was gaining from all my classes, all of which proceeded at a fast pace.

I pulled quite a few all-nighters during my junior year, working on assignments, major papers, internal assessments (IAs) and presentations.

Caffeine became my best friend and a travel coffee mug became a permanent part of my wardrobe. The nagging doubt that I couldn’t handle the workload lingered in the corner of my mind for a while.

Tamir poses for a selfie with Theory of Knowledge teacher John Hawes.

The IBDP forced me to re-evaluate the way I looked at myself. I had to figure out what my strengths and weaknesses were, and I couldn’t lie to myself about them anymore.

I discovered that I wasn’t great at math, but I was better in humanities classes. Consequently, I expected the IBDP to incite more epiphanies after my personal ones.

Then I took IB Theory of Knowledge (TOK), and experienced an epiphany every week.

We had readings that dealt with matters ranging from differing perceptions of art to the Western inability to understand China, to the lengths people will go to in order to avoid being wrong. The articles and subsequent discussions revealed insights into the human condition and the world we live in.

I also learned a lot about my peers during TOK discussions. From certain debates and discussions we

participated in, I was able to figure out what each of our class members believed and what mattered to them, which led to understanding them on a deeper level than students in many of my other classes.

Speaking of my peers, one of the most underrated aspects of the IBDP is the community it fosters. The class of 2014 has 38 Diploma Candidates, and we’ve all become friends. There’s something about facing the daunting Extended Essay, or the seemingly endless flood of Internal Assessments IA that forces a group of teenagers to bond closely and quickly.

IB students and teachers also form different bonds than traditional students and teachers. IB classes foster a different type of environment than normal classes do. It is assumed that the students want to learn at higher levels, and are motivated and committed in doing this. In light of this, teachers tend to treat their

— Steve Aderton junior

“I’m looking forward to meeting new people. A fresh start and the freedom will be nice.”

— Soulinaf Oualia senior

“I’m looking forward to being away from here. I will meet new people and have a fresh start.”

— Jacob Velasquez senior

“I’m looking forward to not having early classes because I’m not a morning person.”

— Alana Buto senior

Designer babies interfere with mother nature PHOTO ILLUSTRATION BY SARAH METZEL

New technology enabling scientists to design babies is ethically questionable

BY SARAH METZEL Editorials Editor Should mankind be able to technologically design the next generation? The future could lie in our hands with new ways to make “designer babies.”

Designer babies’ genes are manipulated by scientists while they are still developing. These babies could be immune to multiple diseases, or have various traits such as athletic ability or genius intelligence.

There are definitely benefits to producing children with certain stellar traits. However, there are also many ethical implications.

Allowing scientists to manipulate mother nature is reminiscent of

Society should think about the ethical implications of deisgner babies.

Hitler’s dream of “ethnic cleansing.”

This was the systematic extermination of certain demographics that were considered inferior.

During the Holocaust, Hitler attempted this “ethnic cleansing” by targeting Jews, gypsies, homosexuals,

disabled people, and other minorities.

If governments allow scientists to start changing the genes of babies, who is to stop them from eliminating traits they consider inferior, like dark eyes and hair.

Also, creating designer babies

brings mankind closer to cloning humans, which is a technology that has been around for decades. It is illegal in nearly all countries, but laws allowing designer babies could be a stepping stone to a cloning revolution.

Though I might approve of some manipulation of genes to free a fetus of disease, I see no reason for parents to be allowed to predetermine gender or specific traits.

There is a large category of Americans who refuse to buy genetically modified food, so I doubt they will approve of cloning or designer babies. If the creation of designer babies were put to a vote, it is likely that the common consensus would be one of disapproval.

People all over the world are still divided on the manipulation of an unborn babie’s genes. Until there is more information about the scientific implications of genetically designing babies, the nation should outlaw any dabbling in the business of designer babies.

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NEWS

Comic Book club posters The Comic Book Club hangs flyers around the school referencing popular comics

Comic Book club now open Two students hope to share comic book passion with others

BY SHAMAIM SYED Special to The-Ablast For the first time in AHS history, a comic book club will hold its first meeting on Wednesday, May 28 in room 132. The founders of this club include juniors Umar Farooq and Todd Lee who were inspired to create a club to enable high school students to incorporate a science aspect into a superhero’s powers. The club is being sponsored by IB Biology teacher Francesca Mast and IB Physics teacher David Tyndall.

“What mainly inspired us was the anime club.

We thought why is there an anime club, but no comic book club, so lets start a comic book club,” founder, Lee said, “I guess we kind of also wanted to take over anime club, so starting a new club to absorb its power was the best way to go.”

There are no requirements for joining the club nor are there any dues to enter, “we want to give kids the best opportunities to read comics and we know that paying for issues can cost a lot in the long run,” co-founder Umar Farooq said.

The main goal in starting this new comic book club is to spread the love of comic books around the school and for comic book lovers to meet with each other. It is a great way for students to meet other Juniors Todd Lee and Umar Farooq are comic book enthusiasts and will create club for others who share the same passion. students who share the same interest as them. and other elements of pop culture.” discuss how some of the animations differ from “It allows kids to develop their own favorite As a child, many popular superheroes included the comics. superheroes because as a kid, the best role “I would also love to do character analysis, just models are superheroes due to the fact that they Batman, Spiderman and Superman, because many never disappoint,” Farooq said. “We wanted to famous movies featured them as an attraction for because I love digging into characters,” Lee said.

Watching movies would be another feature in incorporate real science into superheroes, so kids. The Comic book club will allow students to the club, since many popular movies have been we will discuss the science and application of get to know and learn about other superheroes.

The club plans on not only reading the many based on comic books and graphic novels. superpowers and explain them using science. We also want to just create a sanctuary for kids to be different types of comic books, but to also look into able to share a love for comic books, graphic novels the adapted versions of some of the comics and

PHOTO COURTESY UMAR FAROOQ

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May 27, 2014

The English department collects donated books

BY AYA ELTAHIR News Editor After two weeks of collecting books from the English Department and National English Honor Society, NEHS has concluded its annual book drive, coming to an impressive grand total of 1,422 books.

The teacher whose classes bring in the most books receives a prize, and this year English teacher Stephanie Hanson’s classes won the title, donating a total of 503 books to the school.

“It feels good to win. My students were really motivated, and I’m glad they are going to get rewarded for their contributions,” Hanson said.

The prize awarded to the winning teacher will be baked goods for all of their classes to be delivered on May 27, made by National English Honors Society members (NEHS).

“The book drive will provide students with engaging reading materials to use during DEAR. Hopefully the options available in classroom libraries through W4 classes will spark some interest in students who previously thought they hated reading because they did

not enjoy the books they have had to read for school,” Hanson said In this book drive, unlike others which collect donated books, such as elementary schools or other organizations, the collected books will be redistributed to classroom libraries here in AHS. Of the three years that NEHS has been doing the book drive, this is the second year that the collected books have been used for our school. The first year that the drive had taken place, the donations had been given to Books for America, an organization located in Washington D.C. that distributes the books to schools, shelters and other educational institutions that may be in need.

There is a specific breakdown to how the donated books are being sorted. “[The] books that are either too childish or too mature are going to be put through a swapping program where they are going to be exchanged for high school level ones. Easy reader chapter books are going to be distributed to the ESOL and special needs students who might find it easier to follow along, increasing the amount of books in their libraries,” junior Annika Hackfeld said.

“High school appropriate books are going to be distributed to various classroom libraries, and books donated that are part of the English curriculum are going to be put in a type of teacher workroom so that they can be used throughout the

AYA ELTAHIR

NEHS ends annual book drive

NEHS organizes books collected from the book drive, making sure they are appropriate.

year.”11 English teachers and their classes participated in the drive, and all have contributed to enhancing literacy throughout the school.

The amount of books donated, as well as students’ motivation to participate in the drive, goes a long

way in conveying the importance of reading and sharing books at AHS. If extra time ever arises in an english class, grab a book from a library to stimulate your mind.

Boosters finish fundraisers Boosters ends scholarship submission for athletes

Story of the day On your smartphone, scan the above code using the application “QR Code” to view the story of the day.

Sports have officially ended their fundraisers to finance scholarships for athletes that apply.

The AHS spring sports have held several fundraisers this season to get players active and involved. Each year the Atoms Booster Club awards four student athletes with a onetime $1,000 scholarship contribution to their higher education. There have been several fundraisers that occurred at once, including the Red Letter Challenge and Spring Raffle Tickets.

For the Red Letter Challenge, the athletes submit ten addresses and affix stamps on the Red Letters.

The school then sends these to the athlete’s friends and family, especially out of town supporters.

The Spring Raffle fundraiser is a newer event, where sales are one

BERTA TARQUI

BY ALAN VARGAS News Editor

Athletes try to boost donations by letting those who participate in sports pass out letters.

dollar per ticket, and where local gift cards will be awarded for a short amount of tickets. All these fundraisers are for the purpose of raising money and compensating seniors for all their hard work as they embark on their journey for a higher education.

The four scholarships available to athletes are the Robert G. Hardage Scholarship, Robert Leibowitz

Scholarship, Laura Hagan Smith Scholarship and the Bill Sterns/ Darryl Kehrer Scholarship. Each scholarship is named after an athletic activist, previously within our premises, that helped to improve the sports department and/or lead them to success.

The application process includes a short essay on what it has meant to be an AHS student athlete, as well

as a recommendation letter from at least one high school coach. The scholarships are going to be rewarded to two males and two females.

Though this is a tremendous and relatively simple opportunity to gain money for college, many seniors are either unmotivated to apply or unaware of the opportunity. Just as well, most seniors are unaware that the majority of spring fundraisers are done to raise money for the scholarships.

“Everyone normally is like ‘ugh, these are stupid’. I don’t believe that the red letters are a good way to raise money just because it seems like begging for money, but the CincoK and the raffle tickets are a much more productive fundraiser,” senior Kaitlin Martindale said.

Most spring athletes share the same opinion on the fundraisers they’ve had this season.

“Once I met the required amount for each fundraiser, I stopped. I didn’t see any real reason to continue and thought they were pretty pointless,” junior Alex Parado said.

NEWS

May 27, 2014

FCPS to decide on times “start times” continued from page 1

it would be practical to set up the changes by the fall of 2015.

At the beginning of this school year, the county tested a new program for seniors who are on track to graduating. The class of 2014 had the chance to drop up to two morning classes so they could get a few extra hours of sleep.

This experiment was one the few measures FCPS is taking to consider changing the school start times.

According to The Washington Post, “About 650 students — five percent of the Class of 2014” have participated this school year.

Many seniors who are part of the new program enjoy the extra time they have in the morning. Sleep is vital to growing teenagers and many parents are worried that their child does not get enough sleep.

Even a few hours of lost sleep c a n a f f e c t t e e n s n e g a t i v e l y.

Many students will have trouble concentrating throughout the school day, feel irritable and may eat more compared to a teenager who gets the recommended amount of sleep.

Lack of sleep can lead to depression and even suicidal thoughts for some.

These are some of the main factors that are being pushed for the start time change.

The students who decided to drop morning classes must have their own mode of transportation so the county does not have to worry about the transportation expense.

However, with the possible start time changes, FCPS must consider the fact, that delayed mornings and afternoons can create new problems for families.

Switching the start times for high school and elementary school students could be a good thing for some families since small children cannot be left alone in the morning

to get to school. Currently, parents of younger children who have to work early in the morning must either drop off their children at School Age Child Care (SACC) or have an older sibling or babysitter take care of them.

If the start times are switched, parents will not have to worry as much because their child will be at school rather than in a care program.

However, the problem with child care arises again when elementary school students end their school day since it will be earlier.

Usually, high school students make it to school before morning rush hour starts, which makes it easier for juniors and seniors to drive to school.

Also, many parents are able to drop off students on their way to work. If the times change, high schoolers may not be affected as much because they are more capable of staying alone in the morning.

However, not everyone wants to change the regular start times.

Many are worried about how sports and after school activities will be managed. If the commencement of school is pushed back an hour or two, the end of the day would be affected as well.

Students who participate in sports realize that their practices will be pushed back to a later time and those who play in a winter sport may have practice after dark.

Sophomore Kasana Nguyen is involved in winter track and worries about how her team will be affected.

“We will get home later and we would be practicing late at night and we practice outside so the later it gets, the colder it gets,” Nguyen said.

After school clubs and events will be affected as well since school could be ending at around 3:00 or 4:00 p.m.

Clubs such as Yearbook, that stay

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Math Honor Society Inductions On Tuesday, May 27 Math Honor Society will be holding their inductions from 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. in the Clausen hall.

Physics Expo

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Physics students will present their projects from 7:20 a.m. to 9:35 a.m. in the Clausen hall.

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Senior Portraits Middle/High School Flip

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On Thursday May, 29 a meeting for the Class of 2015 senior pictures will take place in the bistro.

Year Book Distribution

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after school for extended periods of time, can expect later nights to work on the yearbook.

The decision will not be announced until the meetings are finished and FCPS has a structured plan to change the schedules. The Class of 2015 will not be affected by the decision since the potential change is expected to be implemented in the fall of 2015.

Yearbooks will be distributed on Friday May, 30 in the Clausen hall.

Spring Band Concert

“It might extend the commute time for some of our teachers who live further distances away, but as a whole, as far as the operation of the school we may experience some difficulties after school,” Principal Vincent Randazzo said. “But that remains to be seen, I am sure we can work it out for everyone’s benefit, if that does happen.”

SOL requirements will change “SOL” continued from page 1

to the curriculum that we’re supposed to study.”

“SOLs don’t really benefit the student body because towards the end of the year, all we are learning to do is pass the SOL, and that takes the focus away from other tests and finals that might be more important,” sophomore Amanda Adenan said.

Teachers have similar feelings about the tests that students are forced to take.

“I get the purpose of it. I get that we need to make sure across the board that everyone is meeting a certain

standard,” Hanneman said. “But I think that it’s moving more towards the direction of making things more difficult than they need to be.”

This direction includes the introduction of interactive questions in 2010 as well as the higher standards introduced with them.

Opposite these changes come the changes in the number of tests by McAuliffe and the Virginia General Assembly. Some at AHS find these changes to be more beneficial to students than the previous changes.

“I think the lower number is fine, as long as the tests still cover the disciplines,” Hanneman said.

NEWS BRIEFS

Middle School “Early”

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The survey also cited that 63 percent of respondents think that the state’s SOL tests put too much pressure on students, and three in four who agree that preparing for SOLs prevent teachers from covering all the important material needed.

“The tests hold both students and teachers accountable,” Hanneman said. “These tests put students in a tight spot by making them pass these tests as a graduation requirement, but teachers are also held accountable because their names go on the scores.”

AHS students feel that they are being robbed of class time that could be used to prepare for final exams.

SOL requirement change On your smartphone, scan the above code using the application “QR Code” to view the continuation of the SOL story.

Atoms Writing Center now tutoring online Students can submit work to tutors virtually on Sundays

BY ATOMS WRITING CENTER Special to The-Ablast The Atoms Writing Center (AWC) is now offering tutoring services online every Sunday evening from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. to help students with essays submitted by email, offering feedback, corrections, and suggestions to improve the paper.

Students can submit an essay for editing by emailing their essay to ahs.awc@gmail.com or by sharing their essay on Google Docs. Google documents can be shared by clicking the “Share” button in the upper right corner of the Google Doc, entering ahs.awc@gmail.com into the “Invite People” box, then pressing “Send.”

Submissions should include the writer’s name, what class the assignment is for (teacher, subject, and grade level), and a short description of the assignment. Include the prompt if possible.

Students can also send the tutor any questions they have or tell the tutor what they want help with. Tutors can help writers work through writing problems such as creating an introduction, writing a thesis, or incorporating quotes.

“Tutors are well qualified to answer specific questions such as needing help with specific points in their writing,” junior and AWC leadership member Victoria Dang said.

Once submitted, a tutor then reads the essay, takes notes, and offers suggestions to fix To make sure that tutors have time to review the essay, students should try to submit their paper no later than 6:00 p.m.. Students can expect a response by 8:00 p.m. that night. Essays submitted during the school week may not be seen until Sunday evening.

Anyone who needs more immediate help with an assignment can come directly to the Atoms Writing Center, room 274 in the English hallway. It is open during all R5 lunches and Wednesdays after school.

Atoms Writing Center Rm. 274 https://ahsawc.wordpress.com ahs.awc@gmail.com Twitter: @AtomsWC

Band will perform their annual spring concert in the auditorium on Tuesday June, 3 in the auditorium at 7:00 p.m.

Class of 2017 Bake Sale On Wednesday June, 4 the class of 2017 will hold a bake sale in the cafeteria lobby at 2:00 p.m.

NHS Meeting On Wednesday June, 4, National Honor Society will hold their meeting at 2:15 p.m. in the cafeteria.

Parent/Teen Traffic Safety Night On Wednesday June, 4, the Parent/Teen Traffic Safety Night in the Clausen hall from 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.

Senior Award Ceremony On Thursday June, 5 the senior award ceremony will take place in the Clausen hall at 7:00 p.m.

Class of 2014 Prom On Friday June, 6, the Senior Class of 2014 will hold Prom at 9:00 p.m. at the Hilton Alexandria Mark Center.

Red Carpet Orchestra Awards On Saturday June 14, the orchestra department will have their award ceremony in the Clausen hall at 7:00 p.m.

Class of 2014 Graduation On Tuesday June 17, in Constitution Hall, the graduation ceremony will be held at 7:00 p.m.

Last Day of School Due to the snow days this winter, the last day of school is extended until Wednesday June 25.

View the Atom’s Writing Center Website On your smartphone, scan the above code using the application “QR Code” to view the website.

6

What is the best thing about having a sibling?

PEOPLE

Unbreakable sibling bonds Students share the special bonds they have with their siblings.

Alan & Kevin Maldonado sophomores Alan and Kevin Maldonado are 15 year old fraternal twins.

Both Kevin and Alan agree that there are benefits to having a twin.

“The good thing about having a twin is that it makes us a whole lot closer rather than just being together.

We’ve been together since birth and we’ve shared the same room for 15 years,” Alan said.

They also enjoy being able to fool people who aren’t able to tell the difference between them.

“Sometimes people give us free things because they love twins,” Alan said. Being a twin also comes with sacrifices when both brothers end up liking the same thing.

“Sometimes when we both want the same shirt we have to give it up to the other since we aren’t big on wearing the same clothes. Sometimes people confuse my brother Kevin for the one who’s dating my girlfriend,”Alan said.

Alan’s favorite thing to do with his brother is to watch videos on Youtube and eat snacks.

“The best thing about having a sibling is that I can borrow their clothes and they make food for me.”

— Madison Sample freshman

“The best thing about having a sibling is having someone keep you company when your parents won’t let you go out .”

May 27, 2014

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— Franklin Joseph sophomore

Melissa & Kelly Pratt seniors

Seniors Melissa and Kelly Pratt are fraternal twins who have a close relationship. Melissa describes their relationship as a closer bond than just having a regular sibling.

“It’s good to be a twin because you always have a best friend and someone who’s there for you,” Melissa said.

Although, sometimes having someone so close causes unnecessary bickering. Both sisters enjoy spending time together.

“My favorite thing to do with Kel is to just spend time with her and have fun,” Melissa said.“When people find out that we’re twins they say really and look at us closer. “I think being twins has helped make us closer because we went through life and high school together as a team,” said Melissa.

“The best thing about having a sibling is always having someone to talk to.”

—Jeffery Montano sophomore PH OT OS

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“The best thing about having a sibling is that they are also there for you and you learn from their mistakes.”

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Hunter & Logan Young sophomores

— Justice Kerfoot junior

“The best thing about having a sibling is that you’re not always lonely it’s not just you and your parents.”

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Having a twin brother comes with having someone who will always back you up.

“Having a twin brother is like having someone just like you who acts different.

It’s different than having an older brother because I always have someone to talk to.

If I’m not hanging out with Hunter than I’m usually just doing my own thing. I have a better relationship with hunter than anyone else,”Logan said.

People’s initials reactions are usually surprised and shocked when they find out that they are twins.

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— Lizzie Manthos senior

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Celebrity twins

Mary Kate & Ashley Olsen American actresses and fashion designers Mary Kate and Ashley Oslen are fraternal twins.

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Sarah, Zack & Noah Woodward sophomores Sarah, Zack and Noah Woodward are triplets who are four minutes and twenty four minutes apart. Sara, who is the eldest, enjoys being a triplet.

“When you go to school you always have a fifty percent chance of getting them in your class” Sara said.

“One bad thing about being a triplet is having to share everything. Up until we turned 11 we shared birthday parties and all of our aunts and uncles always assumed that we wanted matching gifts.”

Their sibling relationship remains peaceful for the most part.“Although my brothers and I do get into arguments, I can’t remember the last time we legitimately fought with one another.”

When people find out that they are triplets the first thing they tend to ask are “Who’s the oldest?”

Some people even get confused.

“Triplets are just like twins except there’s three of us.

People ask us all the time what it’s like to be a triplet.

It’s hard to answer that question because it’s all we’ve ever known. We’ve always been the triplets. It’s actually kind of cool to be so close to the people in your family. My childhood would’ve been lonely. They were my playmates and I couldn’t imagine not having them,” Sara said.

Who knows his sister the best?

Dylan and Cole Sprouse The Sprouse brothers are identical twin brothers who known for playing Zack and Cody on the Disney Channel .

Brothers Zack and Noah Woodward answer questions see who knows their sister Sarah the best.

Zack Favorite food: Macaroni & Cheese Favorite song: Any One Direction Song Favorite celebrity: Ed Sheeran Favorite play to act: Music Man by Meridith Willson Favorite thing to do in Free time: Read Dream job: Actress Dream college: Not sure

Tia and Tamara Mowry Tia and Tamara Mowry are fraternal twins who were on the popular TV show Sister Sister on Disney channel.

Sarah

Noah

Favorite food: Popcorn Favorite Song: I don’t love you by Chemical Romance Favorite celebrity: Betty White Favorite play to act: Our Town by Thornton Wilder Favorite thing to do in Free time: Read and write Dream job: Actress & Drama Teacher Dream college: Performing Arts College

Favorite food: Popcorn Favorite song: Ed Sheeren song Favorite celebrity: Dave Franco Favorite play to act: Romeo & Juliet by William Shakespeare Favorite thing to do in Free time: Read Dream job: Librarian Dream college: Harvard

HEALTH

May 27, 2014

Energy drinks on the rise

7 Most popular energy drinks sold in 2013

Research shows that more teens are consuming energy drinks

43%

BY NANCY EVORA Health Editor

39% 39 %

10% 3% NANCY EVORA

The University of Minnesota and Duke University released reports saying more than a third of that 2,793 kids who were surveyed said that they consumed energy drinks once a week.

Energy drinks among teens in high school are popular for students who drink them as regular drinks, though they fail to acknowledge all the sugar and caffeine that is going into their bodies.

“I usually drink Gatorade whenever I am going to work out or sometimes I just take it as a regular drink whenever I am thirsty,” freshman Diamond Harris said.

An energy drink is a soft drink that provides physical and mental energy for those who drink it. Every energy drink contains caffeine, B vitamins, carbonated water and coloring products.

Caffeine is one of the most popular ingredients found in any kind of product, whether it is a refreshment drink or energy drink. Most energy drinks contain 70 to 200 mg of caffeine per can with the purpose of stimulating the person’s system.

Energy drinks are known to help your system stay active and give you more energy, though the drinks are having the opposite effect on teenagers.

A recent report by WebMD said that “teens who drink more energy drinks such as Gatorade, Red Bull or

Freshman William Rangel drinks a popular drink among teens, Monster is one of the drinks that can damage your system.

Monster are probably going to have unhealthy behaviors.”

According to Cecile Marczinski, an associate professor of psychological science at Northern Kentucky University “ kids who are consuming energy drinks are more likely to smoke, they’re more likely to try other illicit substances, they are more likely to drink alcohol. It’s uncertain why they there’s this association, but certainly, the pattern is there,” Marczinski said to WebMD. Energy drinks such as Gatorade, Monster and Rockstar are popular among teens since the drinks are

easy to get from any store and they seem harmless.

“I think some energy drinks help and some do not; like Red Bull and Monster are not good for you but other [I think they are] like Powerade and Gatorade because they reenergize you properly,“ freshman Carson Goettlicher said Even though the drinks have energizing and healthy chemicals.

There have been a lot of concerns from the FDA because there have been proof that energy drinks can harm your system.

Unhealthy effects Due to all the ingredients that each drink has to stimulate your system, your heart rate can be alter more than the normal heart beat which can cause a heart attack.

Since energy drinks are meant to keep people active, people who drink a lot of energy drinks can suffer of insomnia because you are drinking too much caffeine.

The sugar and the ingredients such as citric acid can make your teeth to decay easier since the acids break the enamel that protects them.

Four popular energy drinks Red Bull is made of glucuronolactone, B-group vitamins, sucrose and glucose.

Every can contains 160 mg of caffeine. This drink can casue tooth decay because of the sugar added. Also the caffeine makes your bones weak which can result in osteoporosis that makes your bones really fragile and breakable.

Each can of Monster contains approximately 160 mg of caffeine. Monster is made of carbonated water, sugar, citrid acid, color added and sorbic acid. consuming too much of monster can cause heart attack because the amount of caffeine is not regulated.

Rockstar is made of Taurine, Glucuronolactone, Vitamin B12,Carnitine. Each can of Rockstar contains 160 mg of caffeine. This drink can cause high blood sugar and anxiety because of the high amount of sugar and caffeine.

1%

Of people chose Red Bull, which is 3,433 drinks sold in 2013

Of people chose Monster, which is 3,147 millions sold in 2013

Of people chose Rockstar, which is 821 million drinks sold in 2013

Of people chose NOS, which is 274 millions of cans sold in 2013

Of people chose Full Throttle,which is 104 million cans of Full Throttle in 2013.

Facts Compiled by Caffeine informer website

Do you think energy drinks should be banned for teens in the US? “No, because they taste good and they -give us energy.”

—Beth Galindo freshman

“Yes because it is not good all the caffeine and sugar that we are getting into our body when we drink them.”

5 hour Energy is made of vitamin B6, B12, Niacin, Folid Acid, Citicoline and Tyrosine.

This drink can caused some side effects such as trouble sleeping, nausea,vomit, rapid heartbeat and high blood pressure.

—Iris Rodas sophomore

“Maybe, it depends on how much you drink.”

—Hanna Ayoub junior

No, because I drink C4 when I work out.

—Sam Palencia senior

Compiled by Nancy Evora

5 meals to try over the summer On your smartphone, scan this code using the application “QR Code” to view the meals at home.

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ADVERTISEMENT

May 27, 2014

ACADEMICS

May 27, 2014

Just read it and don’t weep

BY ALAINA GARAY AND KAILYN GARAY Academics Editors

When students think of summer do they think about reading too. Not only are the Honors, IB, and AP classes reading, but the regular English classes are reading this summer as well. Last year FCPS told the English department that each student had to read a book. The students last year were told to read any book of their choice over the summer but some students did not complete that task.

This year Courtney Dearinger, the literacy specialist at AHS and the rest of the English department worked together to choose one or two books for each grade. The English department chose high interest books that they hope the students would like to read and take the book and the assignment seriously. The English department also chose specific books for each grade so the student can relate to the book depending on their grade and what life decisions they are making at this point of time.

“The senior theme is kind of this idea of stepping out into the world and being a part of your community and being a citizen and realizing your not going to be in high school much longer and you know what kind of adult you want to be, the book In Darkness is really mature its definitely not a book we would

What is your favorite book and why?

have freshman read.” literacy specialist Courtney Dearinger said.

The assignments for each grade are very different.

The English department has decided that the freshmen will not be given credit but will have a discussion in class about the book. The other grades will get credit for their assignments.

The students have to provide themselves with the book that is chosen for their grade. The English department is trying to get a good amount of each book for students that cannot provide a book for

“

I like doing the summer reading assignments because it takes my imagination on a journey – Carson Goettlicher

––Carson Goettlicher freshman

”

Freshman Nicole Mccoy reading a book during W4

themselves. Other FCPS schools have offered to let students borrow books for the summer reading. They are also telling local libraries and bookstores to stock up on the books that the students are requierd to read.

When students think of reading over the summer they assume it means they have to do it alone and all at once, but there are alternatives to that. Instead of reading alone, try reading with a group of friends and

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“[My favorite book is] Perks of Being a Wall Flower [by Stephen Chbosky] because its so relatable to teenagers.”

KAILYN GARAY

Non honors English students prepare for summer reading assignment

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read together then summarize what you read at the end of each chapter. Another alternative is to try audio books and have it read out loud to you if you have a hard time reading and/or pronouncing the words. A last resort is to (plan out how much of the book you are going to read a day, week or month.) These helpful tips will help you conquer the summer reading assignment in a short time and leave you to have fun in the sun.

So hurry up and get this done so you have more time to be in the sun.

11

“[My favorite book is] The Fault in Our Stars by John Green because it’s a good love story and it’s very heart warming.”

–– Minchin Nguyen sophomore “[My favorite book is] The Notebook by Nicholas Sparks [because] it is a love story.”

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––Andrea Molina Junior

Book

Summary

Guidelines

Assignments

The Fault in Our Stars is about two cancer patients that fall in love and even though they are going throuh a lot of obstacles they still find the time to have fun and love eachother.

Whale Talk is about Cutter High, as far as T. J. Jones is concerned.

That’s why T. J. is determined to have the unlikeliest swim team a high school has ever seen earn letter jackets of their own. It won’t be easy. They will fight for their dignity and they will fight with each other. And they will make life long friendships

Read the text by the start of the school year in the fall.

Discussion of book to introduce literary thinking; one paragraph writing sample hopefully based on book.

When Thomas wakes up in the lift, the only thing he can remember is his name. He is surrounded by boys whose memories are also gone.

Read the text by the start of the school year in the fall.

Writing diagnostic in the fall.

High school sophomore Miranda’s disbelief turns to fear in a split second when an asteroid knocks the moon closer to Earth. How can her family prepare for the future when worldwide tsunamis are wiping out the coasts, earthquakes are rocking the continents and volcanic ash is blocking out the sun? How is Miranda and her family going to stay safe?

The Road is about a father and his son who are trying to survive on earth while it is falling apart.

Read the text by the start of the school year in the fall.

Written assessment similar to the assessment given in September 2013. The assessment will involve a few common literary terms (theme,climax, protagonist) as well as a letter to the author.

In the book In Darkness, a stunning tour-de-force set in the aftermath of a devastating earthquake.

“Shorty” is a Haitian boy trapped in the ruins of a hospital when the earth explodes around him. As Shorty waits in darkness, he becomes aware of another presence. It is the presence of slave and revolutionary leader Toussaint L’Ouverture. What unites a child of the slums with the man who would shake a troubled country out of slavery?

Complete a dialogue journal while reading text and complete by start of school year.

“13 Reasons Why

by Jay Asher because I really like the style of writing and got really attached to the book.”

––Beza Yoseph Junior

“[My favorite book is] To Kill A Mockingbird

by Harper Lee because it really influenced the way I think about justice.”

––Amy Graham English Teacher

Dialogue journal due on first day Socratic seminar (or some type of discussion) during first week of classes.

Vocabulary Words ADUMBRATE verb To foreshadow vaguely.

DIAPHANOUS adjective Used to describe cloth that is very thin.

MASTICATE verb To grind or crush (food) with or as with the teeth.

PUSILLANIMOUS adjective Weak and afraid of danger.

Reading Tips on how to read a text “Death packet” On your smartphone, scan this code above using the app “QR Code” to learn how to tackle the HOA “Death Packet.”

If you could go to any country in the world and not pay for your vacation, where would you go?

“I would go to Greece because I’ve wanted to go ever since I saw the movie, Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants.”

— Kimberly Romero freshman

“I would go to the Bahamas because it’s a really nice place, plus I would be at the beach all day. ”

— Ryan Peich freshman

“I would go to the Fuji Islands because I’ve seen pictures and it looks very nice, it would be fun.”

— Katie Pacak sophomore

May 27, 2014

Brazil: To go or not to go Students decide whether to go to Brazil or visit another country.

BY SUMMER AYOUB International Editor Brazil has been a center for media attention recently due to the increased coverage of the upcoming 2016 Olympics and World Cup. “I decided to go to Brazil because I knew it would be an awesome experience and because of the World Cup,” senior Ayah Oweis said.

Although, many people enjoy travelling to Brazil, there are also some that are terrified by the drug cartels and gang violence.

“I was planning on going to Brazil with my mom, sister, and family friends who all play soccer. We all decided not to go,” senior Anu Mandefro said, “because our close friends informed us about the drug cartels, and all the bad things that are going on in Brazil.”

Brazil’s crime rate may have decreased, but there is still high crime rate in Rio de Janeiro. In 2012, there were about 4,041 homicides in Rio de Janeiro.

The United States Department of State, Bureau of Diplomatic Security has filed the Brazil 2013 Crime and Safety Report on Rio de Janeiro. “In order of our safety, we are not going to go to Brazil this Summer,” Mandefro said.

There may not be terrorist groups in Brazil, but there is a significant amount of criminal activity.

Through the months of November and March there have been torrential rains in which cause flooding and landslides. Brazil has a very high rate of vehicle accidents and death rates.

Some people may want to visit Brazil because of the beautiful sight seeing such as Corcovado Mountain, Christ Redeemer Statue, Tijuca Rain Forest, Sugar Loaf Mountain, Iguassu Falls, and

PHOTO COURTESY OF MAIL ONLINE

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INTERNATIONAL

This picture shows the World Cup venue in Brazil for 2014.

many soccer matches that occur in the summertime.

There are many tourist attractions that take place in Brazil.

Brazil is the biggest country in South America and not only do the tourist attractions catch people’s attention, but the people are also very friendly and enjoy seeing others come and enjoy their country as well.

This summer the main reason many will be traveling to Brazil is to watch the World Cup matches, despite the dangerous enviornment. “I am aware of the dangerous environment, but I think that as long as you stay in safe tourist places, I’ll be okay,” Oweis said.

Drug cartels are very high in Brazil due to all of the drug production in some Brazilian cities. This problem may scare people away from the country but there is a reason that Brazil was chosen to hold the World Cup and the Summer Olympics of 2016.

The country of Brazil had to undergo many tests and critics to make sure that their country is capable of having people from all over the country visiting and attending the special events happening.

Although the Summer Olympics of 2016 does not happen for another two years many people are still visiting the city of Rio, “I’m planning on exploring Rio and going to the beach and watching all of the World cup matches,” Oweis said.

Porto Seguro is one of the many populated places in Brazil that is populated with tourists. Maceio, Brazil is known to have the beautiful beaches.

Fortaleza is famous for its infrastructure. Natal is for the people that are traveling in the winter, since the temperature is hot all year round.

Gramado is a one of few vacation sites that has an environment which is soothing and calm.

Florianopolis is the capital of Santa Catarina, and it is populated all year round. Balneario Camboriu does not only have beaches and tourists but has a very strong trade and is active all year round. Foz Do Iguacu is famous for its waterfalls. There are 275 waterfalls falling from a height of 83 meters.

Caldas Novas is known as the hot waters city which receives an amount of 1.5 millions tourists per year. Pantanal contains the world’s largest wet lands., where people can go horseback riding, or a memorable boat ride. While on that boat ride people will see crocodiles, red-bellied piranhas, birds, and jaguars.

The Amazon Rainforest is known for being one the largest rainforest’s in the world. The rainforest contains monkeys, snakes, and many more creatures.

Although the drug cartelis a major issue in Brazil.

It continues to be a major tourist attraction with the events it is holding this year. Even with the struggles that are being thrown at them, they continue to keep their country strong and clean for the tourists that are going to be arriving soon.

Summer’s Vacation Destinations Junior Brianna Carcano is moving to Naples,

“I would go to the Bermuda Triangle because it seems scary and creepy. It also seems risky, I like risks.”

“I would go to Paris, France because it’s so beautiful and historic.”

— Brianna Carcano junior

“I would go to Dubai because it has everything I like there. Like cars, money, gold and sight seeing.”

Sophomore Brittany Berry is going to Lake Clear, Canada to

Sophomore Amanda Adenan is going to San Pueblo, Honduras with her church.

Senior Ayah Oweis is going to Brazil to attend the World Cup.

— Fahmi Mohammed senior

“I would go to Antarctica because the only people there are scientists and animals.

There’s a zero population.”

— Hassan Mims SAM Program Coordinator Compiled by Summer Ayoub

Top 10 International Places to Travel On your smartphone, scan the above code using the application “QR Code” to read about the Top 10 International Places to travel to.

Sophomore Maddie Little is going to France to visit her grandfather.

Junior Daniela Salinas is going to the Dominican Republic on vacation.

Sophomore Ahmed Mohamed is going to Cairo, Egypt to visit family.

Freshman Lucy Lefbom is going to Kenya on vacation.

Sophomore Brooke Thadeaus is going to Denmark on vacation.

PHOTO COURTESY OF CEPROOF

— Leif Jomuad sophomore

PHOTO

May 27, 2014

13

COURTESY OF LULU FAISAL

Senior have been getting their creative juices flowing for promposals.

Prom is on June 6, at the Alexandria Hilton.

Tickets can be purchased in the cafeteria during all lunches for $40.

COURTESY OF ROCHELLE KENNY

COURTESY OF BLAINE EPHREM

Senior Greg Jackson asks junior Rochelle Kenny to Prom with a poster that says “Backseat Shawd,” an inside joke between the two of them, and flowers.

Senior Tyler Pacak asks his girlfriend, alumni Rebecca Nguyen, with an easter egg hunt with puzzle pieces in every egg that she assesembled and asked her to Prom.

COURTESY OF BROOKE THADEUS

Senior Francisco Lam asks sophomore Brooke Thadeus to Prom with flowers and cakepops after her soccer game.

COURTESY OF CHELSEA FLORES

Senior Melanie Bennett gets asked by sophomore Beau Hatch to Prom with a cake and flowers.

COURTESY OF TYLER PACAK

Senior Josie Cuellar gets asked by junior Kyle Goettlicher to Prom with a song, flowers, and a poster.

Senior Medhane Berihun asks senior Sureyya Gokturk to Prom with Chick-Fil-A and flowers after her lacrosse game.

COURTESY OF MELANIE BENNETT

COURTESY OF KYLE GEOTTLICHER

Senior Kidus Yared made a poster and got a cake and flowers to ask junior Blaine Ephrem to Prom.

COURTESY OF SUREYYA GOKTURK

Senior Bryan Abedi made a huge banner to ask his lacrosse playing girlfriend, senior Lulu Faisal, to prom after one of her games. Faisal’s lacrosse team helped out with the promposal.

Senior Zac Mahboob, with the help of friends, asks senior Chelsea Flores to Prom with posters that spell out prom, starbucks and flowers.

14 What’s on your summer LIFESTYLES

What’s your goal for this summer?

May 27, 2014

bucket list?

Go to a World Cup Game

“My goal for this summer is to go to the pool and get a nice tan.”

PHOTO COURTESY BY GOOGLE

—Mauricio Reyes freshman

Summer Bucket Lists of 2014 “Basically my goal is to get more active and to not lay on the couch and watch Netflix all summer.”

As summer comes around, students of AHS start to make their bucket lists.

Manuel Aleman freshman “Since I really like soccer, This summer I want to go to a World Cup game.”

The World Cup games are being held in the Maracana stadium in Brazil.

Go to Disneyland

—Karla Mejia freshman

Aly Cotrina freshman

Go to Coachella

“I want to go to Disneyland!

But I also want to go to Kings Dominion and have a beach weekend in Florida.”

“I really want to go to Coachella, I love the theme of it and the line up.”

— Danyom Beyene freshman

PHOTO COURTESY BY COACHELLA.COM

PHOTO COURTESY BY DISNEYLAND.COM

“To go kayaking with my cousins because I’ve never got the gut to go.”

Urmia Awan junior

Disney characters at Disneyland in Anaheim, California.

Annual Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival held in Indo, California.

Go Cliff Diving Go Skydiving Noah Woodward sophomore

“The number one thing on my bucket list is cliff diving.

I see pictures on Pinterest and it seems fun.”

“Some things on my bucket list are to go sky diving, get a tattoo and go to concerts.”

PHOTO COURTESY BY KAMARI BEACH

—Thida Pathammavong sophomore

Marem Atef sophomore

“I’m planning on learning how to become a better driver.”

— Nicole Orozco junior

PHOTO COURTESY BY DC SKYDIVING

“I want to go to the beach and to music festivals with friends.”

Two people skydiving off a plane onto land in the summer.

Travel to different states

A girl diving off a cliff into the ocean in the summer.

Go camping in Shenadoah

Fahmi Mohammed senior

PHOTO COURTESY BY NPS.GOV

“I want to travel to different places and drive around to explore different areas.”

PHOTO COURTESY BY TRAVEL MANAGER

Hayat Yusuf senior

—Nema Atef senior

A plane taking off from the airport going to different states in America.

Couple hiking in Shenadoah Valley Campground in Virginia.

“This summer I’m going to get a job, go swimming and sleep. But I really want to travel to different states.”

“My bucket list is to go camping in the Shenadoah, to go white water rafting, go to an EDM concert, pick up quidditch and explore places in D.C.” – Compiled by Marilyn Rivas and Soulisa Pathammavong

Summer fashion for music festivals

“This summer I want to get a job and meet girls.”

New summer fashion trends’ as music festivals approach

— Gabriel Lajnef senior

– Compiled by Soulisa Pathammavong High waisted denim shorts are a go-to clothing item for a vintage and classic vibe.

They are easy to pair with and are available in many designs.

Available at Garage

Halter crop tops give a chic and fun look. You can pair them with high waisted shorts or skirts.

A skirt is the perfect summer bottom.

Bright pastel colors are a good choice because they add a pop of color to a dull look.

Available at American Apparel

Available at Topshop

Summer Fashion On your smart phone, scan this code using the application “QR code” to read and see a slideshow about summer fashion for music festivals.

To add a summery look to any outfit, add a pair of strappy sandals. They’re comfortable to walk around in and very fashionable.

Available at Forever 21

– Compiled by Marilyn Rivas and Soulisa Pathammavong

Headbands and turbans are very popular to wear at music festivals.

They come in a variety of colors and designs.

Available at PacSun

Don’t know what to wear? Put on a pair of overalls with a plain crop top. Overalls give an edgy look to a simple outfit.

Available at Urban Outfitters

May 27, 2014

Farewell, seniors!

15

SPORTS X-TRA

Seniors Jordan Fox, Tyler Pacak and Michelle Burnett look back on their high school sports careers

What is your favorite high school sports memory?

“Winning my wrestling match and going to states.”

— Anouar Sakta Senior

“Beating my personal record in my mile time. I got a 4:49.”

PHOTO COURTESY OF TYLER PACAK

PHOTO COURTESY OF JORDAN FOX

Jordan Fox

Boys Varsity Soccer ATTENDING: James Madison University FAVORITE HIGH SCHOOL SPORTS MEMORY: Beating Lake Braddock in double overtime when Grant Gittins hit the game winning shot with .01 seconds on the clock. I’ve never seen anything like what happened in the last 10 minutes of that game WILL MISS: All of my teammates and the comradery at practices. Annandale has a lot of good players and coaches who are also good people to be around LOOKING FORWARD TO: Playing every day with committed, good players, and not having school sports conflict with club sports.

PHOTO COURTESY OF MICHELLE BURNETT

— Kidus Yared Senior

Tyler Pacak

“All the pep talks and prayers we had before games became a little tradition.”

— Hayat Yusuf Senior

Michelle Burnett

Boys Varsity Baseball

Girls Varsity Soccer

ATTENDING: RandolphMacon College FAVORITE HIGH SCHOOL SPORTS MEMORY: Freestyle rapping in the McCann van on our drives to the baseball fields during our Myrtle Beach spring break tournament.

WILL MISS: I will miss playing with guys that I’ve had friendships with since I was little.

LOOKING FORWARD TO: I’m looking forward to competing at a higher level and making new memories with my new teammates.

“I’m going to miss my teammates and all the memories I made with them”

ATTENDING: University of Delaware FAVORITE HIGH SCHOOL SPORTS MEMORY: Beating Lake Braddock during my sophomore year 2-1, in overtime on their senior night.

WILL MISS: I am going to miss all the bonds I made with all my teammates and getting to watch the team grow and get better throughout the season.

LOOKING FORWARD TO: I’m looking forward to being able to play at an elite level and being able to challenge myself and grow as a player. I am also looking forward to all the friends I’m going to make by being on the team.

— Lemine Cheikh Senior

“Beating Woodson my senior year in field hockey. It was a big deal because they’re one of our biggest rivals ”

— Bayley Brill Senior

How do you stay fit for your sport over the summer?

“I run and I work out by myself.”

---Bernard Andoh junior

“I go running through the forest or I just practice tennis with my dad and do tennis drills.”

—Luca Fernandez freshman

“I work out by myself and I also go to the gym to work out.”

—Abdulahi Abdella sophomore

“I go biking because bike is life and if I don’t have my bike then I go running.”

—Tes Lamin sophomore

“I try to hit the gym as often as I can. I also keep myself fit by doing 20 pushups a day.”

—Kevin Fuentes freshman

“I am going to stay fit by doing some conditioning, lifting, and offseason practices.”

— Danny Nguyen sophomore

Q&A with Matthew Behne

“I stay fit by running on the weekends and doing conditioning workouts.”

Q: What is the purpose of Summer League?

A: The purpose of the Summer League is to create opportunities for current Annadale boys basketball players to gain game time experience and work on their in-game skills

— Jordan Hermann sophomore

Q: How does Summer League help condition players?

A: The Summer League is not meant to be a conditioning forum, that’s why we hold weight training, conditioning and green days in the off season.

Athletes plan on staying active Student athletes already preparing for next season The school year hasn’t ended yet, but many AHS athletes are already thinking about the fall and winter seasons next year. Varsity spring athletes are still focused on this season due to the postseason games, but student athletes that play fall and winter sports, which have ended months ago, look forward to training during the summer in preparation for next year.

“I’m doing AHS Summer League and playing on my AAU basketball team,” sophomore Dini Mohamud said.

“I’m doing lacrosse, rugby, swim and tennis over the summer,” sophomore Anya Montes de Oca said. “I do them because they are fun and all my friends do them. Summer sports help me improve my skills and stay in shape.”

Student athletes are especially looking forward to having much more free time to work out and train, and not have to worry about the balancing act of athletic responsibilities and schoolwork.

“During the school year I can’t enjoy sports as much because I know when I get home I will have homework and tests to study for,” Mohamud said. “I do summer sports because they are a great way to stay in shape during the summer.”

Summer sports also help athletes get better at

PHOTO COURTESY OF DINI MOHAMUD

BY DANIEL YENEGETA Sports X-tra Editor

Many athletes join AAU, a popular summer league for young basketball players.

their sport, in addition to helping them stay fit.

“I play volleyball during the summer to stay fit for the upcoming school year,” sophomore Ruth Tiguh said. “Playing volleyball during the summer really makes a positive impact on how I play during the fall season. It helps me get better on the basics of volleyball such as serving.”

Among other reasons, some athletes choose to do summer sports activities for the love of the game.

“I play AAU basketball during the summer,” junior and boys varsity basketball player Ron Alston said. “I play basketball during the summer because I love it. It conditions you and prepares you for the regular season in winter.”

Some students choose to train by themselves rather than with a group such as AAU. There are also summer activities going at

school that AHS athletes can participate in, such as the Summer League. Summer League is being hosted by Fairfax High School, but it is open to AHS students and many basketball players are participating in it.

“In summer league it is a chance for me to impress the varsity coach in hopes of making varsity next year. I use AAU as a chance to increase my basketball knowledge and skill,” Mohamud said.

AHS also has green days, offseason workouts and conditioning opportunities that are available for many athletes over the summer.

“The season for my volleyball team ends in mid-June, but green days have already started and we have more throughout the summer to prepare for the season,” Tiguh said.

Q: What do you hope players take away from Summer League?

A: Coaches are looking for players to learn from in game situations and how to execute Annandale expectations in all games.

Q: Who is eligible to participate in Summer League?

A: All interested basketball that are attending AHS are eligible to participate. Roster spots are limited.

Q: Are there tryouts?

A: No, roster spots are a first come first serve with payment basis.

Only during the season are roster spots determined by tryouts

Seniors reflect on high school sports On your smartphone, scan the code using the application “QR Code” to read about what the seniors will miss about high school sports.

16

Summer camps for the artistic

ARTS

May 27, 2014

3, 2, 1... Action!

IB Film students discuss the ins-andouts of filmmaking

Vocal Arts Camp

Where: James Madison University When: July 20-26

Acting For Young People

The scene is set, the actors are in place and the camera’s light starts blinking. “Action!” And the film begins rolling.

The role of a director is not an easy task, but that doesn’t stop students in IB Film Studies. The class tasks students to write, direct and edit their own films throughout the year. The class’s final exam comes in the form of the IB Film Festival. The festival is held each year in the auditorium at the end of the year, open to anyone to attend. Each student is required to submit their own film that is critiqued by a panel of judges. After the festival follows an award show, with categories such as best editing, best story, best documentary and best overall film. In addition, the audience is encouraged to vote in their own separate category for audience-favorite film. Here is what some student-directors had to say about the filmmaking process and their personal experiences.

PHOTO COURTESY OF JAMES BARKER

PHOTO COURTESY OF JMU.EDU

BY BAILEY OLIVER Arts Editor

PHOTO COURTESY OF AFYP.ORG

LEAH TURNER, junior

PHOTO COURTESY OF LEAH TURNER

Where: George Mason University When: Various sessions from June 30- Aug. 1

Camp Shakespeare

PHOTO COURTESY OF HARMONIASCHOOL.ORG

Summer at Harmonia

Q: What got you into films and filmmaking? Why? A: “I’ve just always enjoyed stories and I love the way that films tell stories.”

Q: What do you enjoy most about films and filmmaking?

A: “What I most enjoy about film is how you can feel many different emotions while watching one. A movie can make you feel happy, sad, angry or scared, but in reality you’re just staring at a screen for two hours.”

Q: What is the most challenging aspect of filmmaking and why?

A: “The most challenging aspect of filmmaking is definitely keeping your ideas simple. As student filmmakers we do not possess the resources that big Hollywood projects do. So the more extravagant the idea, the more difficult it is to realize.”

Q: How would you define your style as a filmmaker? Who are your major influences?

A: “I try to throw comedic elements in my films without making them into comedies. Two of my favorite directors are Steven Spielberg and J.J Abrams.”

Q: What is your favorite film and why?

A: “Back to the Future. I just love everything about that movie.

The story, the characters, the music, etc.”

PHOTO COURTESY OF STEVEN ADERTON

PHOTO COURTESY OF POYOMACACADEMY.GMU.EDU

Summer Art Camps at Mason

IB film student Interviews On your smartphone, scan the above code using the application “QR Code” to read about what the IB film students had to say

Barlow’s first assignment of the year, Why you need a bike lock.

STEVEN ADERTON, junior

Where: Harmonia School Of Music And Art When: Various times, depending on the camp

Where: George Mason University When: July 14- 25

PHOTO COURTESY OF SEAN BARLOW

Where: Mclean Community Center and various other locations When: Two-week sessions June 16- Aug. 9, three-week sessions June 30- July 19

SEAN BARLOW, junior

Aderton in his upcoming dark comedy, The Ghost.

Q: What got you into films and filmmaking? Why? A: “A friend asked me to act in her short film. I had a great time on set and working with the other people. That was really my introduction to making films. ” Q: What do you enjoy most about films and filmmaking?

A: “Film is such a creative outlet for me. I love how it all joins music, photography, acting and all other kinds of art into one product.”

Q: What is the most challenging aspect of filmmaking and why?

A: “For me, the most challenging aspect of filmmaking is limiting myself. As a student filmmaker, I have to remind myself that my resources are limited. That’s not bad though. It forces me to execute simple ideas well.”

Q: How would you define your style as a filmmaker? Who are your major influences?

A: “I’m definitely a comedic filmmaker. I try to have variation in my films, but all of them thus far have been comedies. I am also collaborative and couldn’t have gotten where I am in film without the help of my friends Andy and Jess. Together we run a production group called RMT film productions.”

Q: What is your favorite film and why?

A: “My favorite film is The Dark Knight. From a film perspective, everything was done right; the cinematography was beautiful, but not distracting. The plot was intense, but allowed for deep characterization; the acting was absolutely superb. The music was perfect for the film. Essentially everything was done right.”

JAMES BARKER, senior

Q: What got you into films and filmmaking? Why? A: “My brother Alex made movies when he was younger. I loved watching him make them so I began making stop motion Star Wars Lego movies with Noah Wolfenstein and a few other friends. I have loved making movies ever since.”

Q: What do you enjoy most about films and filmmaking?

A: “I enjoy making movies because it allows me to enter a world where I can fix a problem. Our world is imperfect, but movies can be filled with perfection.”

Q: What is the most challenging aspect of filmmaking and why?

A: “The most challenging aspect of filmmaking is the story. The reason so many movies made in the past 10-20 years are not very good is because CGI and hiring a big name actor is more emphasized than the storyline. My goal in making movies is to have a complete story that makes sense and can emotionally connect with the viewer.”

Q: How would you define your style as a filmmaker? Who are your major influences?

A: “My style of filmmaking is to let the actors to their job. I like to have long shots that let the actors breathe and not be constantly cut off by the director to set up a new shot.”

Q: What is your favorite film and why?

A: “My favorite film is Terrence Malick’s The Tree of Life. It is a beautiful take on the world and emotion. I have never seen a film that encompasses such a broad topic into a movie and have it make sense.”

PHOTO COURTESY OF JAMES BARKER

PHOTO COURTESY OF CSUB.EDU

One of Turner’s previous films about fandoms.

Q: What got you into films and filmmaking? Why? A: “I wasn’t introduced to film by anyone, I was picking classes last year and one of my friends told me it was a really easy class. So I chose it and realized it’s not an easy class; you have to be creative and imaginative, but it’s definitely my favorite class.”

Q: What do you enjoy most about films and filmmaking?

A: “What I enjoy most about filmmaking is that I’m in charge of it. Nobody is there telling me exactly what needs to be done and what the final product should look like. I get to do exactly what I want.”

Q: What is the most challenging aspect of filmmaking and why?

A: “I think the most difficult aspect of film is when you need to make a script. I’m not really a writer and I have everything I want to happen in my mind, but putting it on paper is really challenging.”

Q: How would you define your style as a filmmaker? Who are your major influences?

A: “My style is a lot darker than when I first started. I like making films about dark or sad topics because that’s easier for me to write. Some of my influences are Stanley Kubrick, Tim Burton and Wes Anderson.”

Q: What is your favorite film and why?

A: “My favorite film is Stanley Kubrick’s A Clockwork Orange. Kubrick is my favorite director and he’s so inspirational.”

Barker spoofs many of Quentin Tarantino’s movies in his new film, Chill, Bill.

SPORTS Atoms advance to regional play May 27, 2014

Girls lacrosse falls to West Potomac

BY MARIFE BARAGANO Sports Editor In a back and forth battle on against West Potomac in the first round of the conference tournament, the lacrosse girls fell by one goal in the last The girls were up for most of the game, though West Potomac came back in the second half of the game and ended up winning 18-17.

“We played our hardest but I was disappointed in the outcome because I was hoping we would have a chance at getting to conference this year,” senior Kaitlin Martindale said.

Most of the girls on the team began to cry after the game because it would be their last time together as a team.

It was a somber scene on the stadium field, as the girls huddled together for a team hug, almost everyone sniffling and tearing up.

The girls gathered together in

The Atoms’ have a lot of players who have received awards this season.

Senior Steven Schwartz won Conference Pitcher of the Year, junior Shawn Courtney was elected to First Team All-Conference, senior Tyler Pacak and sophomore Colin Corey were elected to second Team All-Conference, while seniors Noah Wolfenstein and Travis Swann along with sophomore Jacob Roop got honorable mentions.

“I am honored to receive an honorable mention,” Roop said, “I am also very proud of my teammates who have also received awards, it’s great to see our hard work get noticed.”

On Friday, May 30, the Annandale Atoms Varsity Baseball team will be playing in the first round of the regional tournament. As of press time, the opponent, time and location had yet to be determined.

MELANIE BENNETT MELANIE BENNETT

Sophomore Coln Corey steps into the batters box at a recent away game for the Atoms.

Atoms soccer player at practice.

Girls tennis looks back on successful season

prayer and to console each other, after battling a team they had formerly defeated this season.

“I loved playing this season, and I will miss all the seniors a lot,” sophomore Janan Gokturk said.

It was a bittersweet ending to a wonderful season. All the girls agree that they played as best as they could, and the outcome was just unlucky.

The girls are looking foward to next years season and hoping for the best.

All in all, the girls ended 2-4 in conference, and were mostly successful out of conference.

Varsty tennis players reflect on this years’ season at AHS

BY SABRINA HAWA Sports Editor

SABRINA HAWA

Team falls to West Potomac in first roundof conference

Sophomore Sarah Deible drives the ball.

As the season progressed, the team agrees that they have improved drastically since the beginning of the season.

The team can also agree that they are looking forward to playing together next season and looking for even more improvment.

As the girls tennis season comes to as end some of the players reflect on the season.

“We’ve definitely improved as a team a lot” Senior captain Chloe Loving said. “We definitely have new techniques and new strategies that we didn’t have before.”

The girls team ends the season with a score of two wins and ten losses.

“All the players have developed their own personal game” Loving said.

“Also the chemistry throughout the team has gone up exponentially, so it is really positive for next season.”

This week, the girls team went head to head aganst South County High School. The girls fought hard.

MELANIE BENNETT

The Annandale Atoms Varsity Baseball team beat conference rivals Lake Braddock in the first round of the conference tournament.

The Atoms were victorious, overcoming Lake Braddock with a score of 3-2. The game was tied after the standard seven innings, so the game went into extra innngs.

Players on the Atoms varsity squad were very pleased with the team’s performance and are excited to advance on to regionals.

“The game was awesome,” sophomore Aaron Boyd said. “It was an intense game, but we were able to come through and get a win.” “[The game] was a real nailbiter,” sophomore Jacob Roop said, “Our team played well overall.” and that helped lead us to a victory.”

It was a close ballgame and the

A look back at the season

PHOTO COURTESY OF COLIN COREY

BY HEZEKIEL YONAS Staff Writer

Atoms had to pull through with a strong pitching performance in order to win the match.

“We played pretty well but we hurt ourselves with costly mistakes,” Boyd said, “Our pitching was great. It really saved us.”

“We didn’t play a perfect game, but it was a hard-fought win,” Roop said, “I am glad we are advancing.”

One of the great things about the win is that it was against conference rivals Lake Braddock.

“It felt amazing to beat Lake Braddock,” Boyd said, “We hate them, plus they beat us in the regular season.”

After their win against Lake Braddock, the Atoms faced off against West Springfield in the second round of conference play.

Unfortunately, the Atoms left the field with a tough loss that night as they fell to West Springfield with a score of 2-6.

The players aren’t happy with the loss, but their season is still very much alive.

“The game sucked because we didn’t play that well,” Boyd said.

To bounce back from this loss, the team has to improve their play in hopes of winning the next game in the first round of the regonal tournamenr.

“We’re lookng to improve on our hitting as well as base running,” Boyd said.

An Atoms tennis player serves the ball at one of their recent matches.

Congradulations Atoms Athletes Girls Soccer 1st team all-conference: Rachael Allshouse Michelle Burnett SABRINA HAWA

Team beats Lake Braddock, fails to manufacture runs vs.

West Springfield

17

Tennis players warm up before their

Emily Villatoro

2nd Team All-Conference: Jenny McCann

Sophomore Janan Gokturk wins the draw.

Brooke Thadeus

How successful do you think your season was?

Honorable Mention: Daniela Salnas

Boys Soccer 1st team all-conference: Jordan Fox (Def) Charlie Montano (Mid) Kyle Prch (Def)

Savannah Ross Soccer “Our season was very successful. This is the best season in 15 years that the girls varsity soccer has had.”

Cody Reagan Track

Tabitha Barnes Lacrosse

Myles Carpenter Lacrosse

“It could of gone much better because at our conference meet I tore the muscle in my back. I couldn’t even compete in my two of my best events.”

“Our season went well over all but we had bumps along way. We pulled together as a team and I thnk we will do really well next season.”

“I think for me I accomplished all of my season goals. I really wanted to focus on sharing the ball and getting others involved.”

Cynthia Weiner Track “My season was successful because I pushed myself and dropped time on my mile for track.”

Track athletes perform well in conference Many qualify for Regional Tournament from AHS track team

PHOTO COURTESY OF AVIAD GEBREHIWOT

BY JAROD GOLUB AND MARIFE BARAGNO Sports Editor Many of the Atoms track team had many placed in top spots at the conference tournament. Ths year, the tournament was held at Lake Braddock SS on May 19 and 21.

Among these athletes was junior Bernard Andoh placing 2nd in the 100m dash with a new personal record of 10.87s. Other achievements include junior Astrid Ligonde auto-qualifying for the state tournament with a Triple Jump of 36 ft 5in.

The team has been anxious for the tournament despite preparing for it all season.

“I wasn’t really nervous to compete this week but more excited than anything. I wanted to do the best I could and beat my own record which I did,” sophomore Gabriel Martino said. “I feel like we all accomplished a lot this season and that we came together. I had a lot of fun and can’t wait till next year.”

The team came out ready to compete and make a lasting impression on everyone who was there watching. After a long day of running and field events the team was happy with how they ended things.

“I’ve had a stressful week and it showed in my race and I tanked. But as for the team, I feel like there were a lot of people who stepped up especially in the relays and jumps,” junior Aviad Gebrehiwot said.

The success for the Atoms did not just come in individual events. Many athletes running in relays for the team placed or set records as well.

For example, the girls 4x100m relay time of 49.15s is now the new school record and also enabled them to become conference champions in that event. The girls in that race for the Atoms were senior Isatu Koroma, senior Elexis Evans, D. Evans and sophomore Shannyea Whitchard.

With their successes from the Conference Tournament behind them, the Atoms must now look ahead to the regional competition which is set to be held on May 29 and 30 at Robinson SS. With their successes from the Conference Tournament behind them, the Atoms must now look ahead to the regional competition which is set to be held on May 29 and 30 at Robinson SS.

2nd team all-conference: Diego Cabrera (Mid) Erick Callao (For) Robert Lamb (Mid)

Honorable Mention: Luis Perez (For) Samuel Palencia (Def) Foday Mansaray (For)

Baseball Pitcher of the year: Steven Schwartz

1st team all conference: Shawn Courtney

2nd team all conference: Tyler Pacak Collin Corey

Honorable Mention: Noah Wolfenstein Travis Swann Jacob Roop

18

ENTERTAINMENT

Summer Sensations Sensations CONCERTS

ALBUMS ALTERNATIVE POP-Lana Del

Rey has recently swept through the Billboard charts with her cinematic voice and classic style.

She releases her third studio album, “Ultaviolence”, on June 13.

ROCK- Since 1996, Linkin Park has grossed numerous #1’s and were named top 10 best rock groups of the music video era. Their sixth studio album, “The Hunting Place”, comes out on June 17.

“I saw some previews of the movie and it looks hilarious.”

“I like Luke Bryan.

I’ve never been to his concert but I think his songs are really catchy and I’m excited.”

— Ayobami Fakulujo Junior

— Amanda Adenan Sophomore

R&BPower couple R&B singer Beyonce and rapper Jay-Z are ranked Hollywood’s topearning couple. Jay-Z and Beyonce have 14 Grammys and over 170 million copies sold together. Their tour “On the Run Tour” is their first co-headlining stadium tour and sold out in a matter of minutes. They come to Baltimore, MD on July 7.

ALTERNATIVE-

AWARD WINNING“The Rover” was the most talked about and awarded movie at the Cannes Festival this year.

The protagonist, Robert Patterson, was said to have his best performance yet.

It will be released on June 13.

ROMANTIC“Think Like A Man Too” is the sequel to the romantic comedy hit “Think Like A Man”. Returning cast like Meagan Good and Michael Ealy set the movie to be more funnier. The movie comes out on June 20.

POPJustin Timberlake has been performing for over 20 years and is considered the Prince of Pop. His tour “the 20/20 Experience” has been the most talked about concert this year. He comes to Baltimore on July 14.

“I’ve heard of the album and I’ve listen to some previews.

Obviously it sounds amazing because Adam Levine is life.”

“I watched the first movie and loved it. I think the second will be a success as well and guys should be taking notes!”

“I’ve heard numerous songs from the album and they’re all great. I bet his concert would be amazing.”

— Gelila Reta Sophomore

— Lydia Kyeremeh Junior

— Katie Pacak Sophomore

HIP HOP-

TRUE STORY-

Kendrick Lamar gained world recognition in 2010 and is known for his classic and controversial rap songs. He received over seven Grammy nominations this year and was named the “Hottest MC in the Game”. His latest album is to release in September. The date and album name are to be determined.

“Jersey Boys” is the latest movie directed by renowned actor and director Clint Eastwood. The true story takes a look back at the classic New Jersey rock group, The Four Seasons. The movie comes out on June 20.

ALTERNATIVE“Vans Warped Tour” is a annual tour that travels across the US all summer long. Over 100 bands perform at each show and act like MAYDAY Parade show up each year.

They’re coming down to Virginia Beach on July 23.

DRAMA-“Dawn HIP HOP“Under the Influence of Music Tour” is an annual hip hop tour ran by Wiz Khalifa that travels across the US during the summer. This year acts like Tyga and Young Jeezy are appearing to show up.

They’re coming to Jiffy Lube on July 27.

“I’m a fan of Kendrick Lamar and I think this album will be great.”

— Aviad Gebrehiwot Junior

COUNTRY- Taylor Swift is one of the most famous country singers today. Her last album “Red” sold over 1.2 million copies on opening week.

She is the only artist that has sold over 2 million copies on album release weeks. Her fifth studio album comes out in September. Date to be determined.

— Molly Gormley Sophomore

COMEDY-“A Million Ways to Die to in the West” is the newest movie directed by Seth Macfarlane. It’s expect to be the funniest movie this year and features stars like Amanda Seyfried and Neil Patrick Harris. The movie comes out on May 30.

Luke Bryan is recently acclaimed ACM Entertainer of the Year and his 2013 tour “Dirty Road Tour” had sold out each show, grossing over 1.3 million fans. His tour “That’s My Kind of Night Tour” started January 2014. His show is in Bristow, VA on May 30 and 31.

became prominent in the US in 2012. He has done multiple duets from Lupe Fiasco to Elton John and was awarded “Song of the Year” and “Best New Artist” at the 56th Grammys. His second studio album, “X”, comes out June 23.

“I listen to Taylor Swift but wasn’t aware that she had an album coming out. I’ve been to her concert before so I’m excited.”

MOVIES

COUNTRY-

POP- Ed Sheeran

Maroon 5 has sold over 27 million albums since coming out in 2002. They were named third most played artist in 2013 and one of the most successful acts from Interscope Records. Their fifth studio album, “V”, is released on September 2nd.

May 27, 2014

“I went last year and I had so much fun. I love all the artist that go and I’m definitely going next year.”

of the Planet of the Apes” is the sequel to the classic dramatic action movie “Planet of the Apes.” With excellent reviews from the last movie, this upcoming one is expected to be just as great. The movie comes out on July 11.

“I’m planning to watch the movie because I love monkeys.”

— Danney Davalos Senior

— Hiwot Dagnachew Junior

ROCKWith their sixth studio album, “The Hunting Place”, coming out on June 17th, Linkin Park plans to come to Jiffy Lube on August 13 to promote the “Carnivores Tour”.

INDIE-“I, Origins” was the most talked about indie film at the Cannes Festival this year.

The deep questions and emotions on science and life from the movie left the audience in awe. It is released on July 18.

19

ENTERTAINMENT

May 27, 2014

WMZQ Fest was a big hit

Students having fun at WMZQ Fest PHOTO COURTESY: KELLY PRATT

Annual WMZQ Fest hits Jiffy Lube Live with performances by Chris Young and Dierks Bentley

BY CONRAD SHARTEL Entertainment Editor

PHOTO COURTESY: MEG HUA

Seniors (from left to right) Melissa Pratt, Cynthia Weiner, Allie Vogus and Kelly Pratt posing for a picture.

Juniors (left to right) Nina Fairman, Kaytlin Hopkins, Meg Hua and Kaitlyn Cook posing at night for a picture.

PHOTO COURTESY: ERIKA ALWES

PHOTO COURTESY: KELLY PRATT

Country music star Dierks Bentley performing in front of his large crowd in the pit at WMZQ Fest in Jiffy Lube Live stadium.

were still some downsides to the event. “It was hard to hear the artist singing, but we knew all of the songs anyway. We weren’t able to talk to any of our friends or make new friends, like you do on the lawn, but we had cool people around us,” Pratt said.

“The worst part was probably the amount of fights in the pit. One girl got punched in the nose so hard that there was blood all over the ground,” Vogus said.

Altogether, it seemed like a very fun experience for

everyone.

“We had pit tickets which meant we were standing right next to the stage which was awesome because I was able to touch Chris Young and Dierks Bentley,” Vogus said.

“The closeness is what I liked best, I got to touch his hand.” Pratt said.

Tickets for WMZQ Fest 2015 have already gone on sale.

Seniors Erika Alwes and Sureyya Gokturk posing on the lawn while tailgating with their friends.

PHOTO COURTESY: GABY CAMILLI

Students had a fun time at the outdoor WMZQ Fest country music festival held on May 17.

The outdoor country music festival was held in the pit. The pit is a large area much like a real pit.

It is where performers perform on a stage to give the audience a better view as if they are lower than them. Many well-known country artists performed on the main stage, such as Dierks Bentley, Chris Young, Chase Rice and Jon Pardi. On the side stage some lesser known artists such as Maggie Rose, The Swon Brothers, Sam Grow, Lindsay Ell and Kalleigh Bannen performed. Many students also like to tailgate before the concert for more fun activities.

“We tailgated for maybe an hour and met up with some friends there,” senior Allie Vogus said.

“We sat in the pit, so it was a little crowded, but the energy up there was great! I loved being that close, it definitely made a difference,” senior Kelly Pratt said.

The performers at the music festival each performed their songs, just like any other music festival.

“My favorite performer was Dierks Bentley, because I knew basically every song,” Pratt said.

Since it is an outdoor concert, lots of people sit around with their friends outside the pit, until the show starts. This provides a good opportunity to make friends and see people you already know.

“I really like seeing everyone, it seemed like all of NOVA was there,” senior Erika Alwes said.

“We kind of walked around beforehand and said hi to some friends, but then we headed inside so we could get a good spot in the pit,” Pratt said.

Students thought the concert was fun, but there

Hot movies this summer Senior Gaby Camilli posing with multiple friends.

What do you think of all the Godzilla movies?

Maleficent

22 Jump Street

Edge of Tomorrow

The Fault in Our Stars

Release date: May 30

Release date: June 13

Release date: June 6

Release date: June 6

Maleficent is about the untold story of the Disney villainess named Maleficent (Angelina Jolie). It tells how she was very pure at heart until humans came into her forest and defiled it. While staying pure and good during this time, she is then betrayed and becomes the evil Maleficent.

22 Jump Street, the sequel to 21 Jump street, hits theaters this June. The film once again features Jonah Hill and Channing Tatum. The co-stars act as college students, up from their previous high school students, to find and turn in a large college drug dealer.

Edge of Tomorrow stars Tom Cruise as Bill Cag who is a soldier fighting in what seems to be an endless war between humans and aliens. During the fighting, he is killed and sent into a time loop. The loop makes it so that every time he dies, he comes back to the start of that same day.

The Fault in Our Stars, the film adaptation of the book by John Green, is about a couple that falls in love during their teen years. The boy, Gus, has a prosthetic leg, and the girl, Hazel, needs an oxygen tank at all times. They meet at a cancer support group, and fall in love at first sight.

“They were really violent and awesome. My favorite is Godzilla vs. Mechagodzilla.”

–Daniel Interiano freshman

“They were pretty terrible, but the one versus Mothra was my favorite.”

Too many Godzillas

–Peter White sophomore

Over 30 remakes seems like a bit too much for the Godzilla franchise, yet it still has a strong fan base supporting it

“I think it is weird that there have been so many remakes of the movie.”

BY CONRAD SHARTEL Entertainment Editor The new Godzilla film, which premiered on May 16, proved to be very good but it did not live up to what everyone said it would be. It included some cheesy lines, but all Godzilla movies have that and it wouldn’t be the same without them.

The beginning of the film is centered around the character Joe Brody (Bryan Cranston) who works at a nuclear power plant in Japan. In about the first 15 minutes, he is forced to let his wife die due to an earthquake and a radiation leak at the plant.

He is determined to find out what caused the leak, and eventually, along with his son, he discovers the monster the government has been holding that caused it. Joe Brody also dies when the monster breaks free, which leaves him out of the last twothirds of the film. Very disappointing.

Surprisingly, that monster is not Godzilla. It is a very large parasitic monster that breaks out of the prison it is held in, killing many soldiers and manages to fly away with its very large wings.

The monster, called a MUTO (Massive Unidentified Terrestrial Organism), goes to find its mate on the other side of the world. While the two MUTOs are

SOURCES: GOOGLE.COM

“I really like the one from the 2000’s, but the other ones have had much different plots.”

The original Godzilla (left) from the first 1954 movie and the newer Godzillea(right) from the 2014 movie.

SOURCE: PASTEMAGAZINE.COM

The 1954 Godzilla after tearing a piece out of a building.

–Thia Carayiannis junior

looking for each other, the beast Godzilla is awoken and tries to stop them from reproducing and causing further damage to Earth.

While all of this is happening, the American military is devising a plan to nuke all three monsters without harming any civilians. Seems a bit far fetched if you ask me. Throughout the whole movie, the military has a scientist that knew about Godzilla beforehand consulting them on what to do. The scientist, named Ichiro Serizawa (Ken Watanabe), keeps insisting on letting the monsters fight and have nature take its course.

The “bad guys,” or MUTOs, feed off of radiation.

They seek out nuclear sites and weapons, and end up in Nevada because it’s where America dumps their nuclear waste. They travel from Nevada to California to battle it out. After many long fights, Godzilla comes

out victorious. The people look at him as the savior of the city, and he then leaves to go back into the water.

This puzzled me a little, because ten minutes before that the people hated Godzilla.

The Godzilla movies have been around since the 1950’s, with the first one premiering in 1954. The films were all Japanese and the first 28 were all produced by Japanese studios. The original film, Godzilla, was adapted into an American film called “Godzilla, King of the Monsters!” the same year it premiered in Japan.

There have been tons of remakes, and all of them have added more classic enemies to the Godzilla franchise. The most famous villains have been Mothra, Rhodan and Mechagodzilla. All of them have been featured in films, in which they attack Tokyo and Godzilla has to defend the city.

–Lizzie Manthos senior

–Compiled by Conrad Shartel

Too many Godzillas On your smartphone, scan the above code using the application “QR Code” to read a review of the new Godzilla movie.

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The A-Blast says good-bye to its senior staff members as the 2013-2014 school year comes to a close

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! s ad

o o G

Gr

e y b d-

May 27, 2014

Omnia Saed

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20

WEEKEND

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