Issue #9

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the VOLUME #62 ISSUE 9

ANNANDALE HIGH SCHOOL 4700 Medford Dr. Annandale, VA 22003 470

Informiing the Atoms siince 1954 4

WEDNESDAY, MAY 17, 2017

(703) 642-4229

Budget proposal includes fees for athletes

SUICIDE CLAIMS VICTIMS Recent Woodson suicide restarts talk of mental health awareness

BY BINQI CHEN Co-Editor in Chief Over the last two weeks, students and faculty at W.T. Woodson High School have been mourning the death of a valuable member to their community.

The student, a junior at Woodson, took his own life after struggling with overwhelming stress and with burdens that we may never know. (The A-Blast does not generally publish the victim's name and method of suicide).

The student was an active student, involved in numerous clubs and extracurriculars such as: ultimate frisbee, Air Force Junior ROTC, Advanced Men's Choir and Young Republicans.

This recent death struck the Woodson community by surprise, but this scene is all too disturbingly familiar for Woodson.

Including the most recent incident, Woodson has seen six other suicides from 2011 to 2014. These were all students who were heavily involved in extracurricular activities and school life as athletes, club participants and volunteers in the community.

Along with the pain and grief, students at the Woodson have begun asking a singular question: Is this systemic of a larger problem at hand?

First, it is important to recognize that this is not just a "Woodson problem," but an issue that affects and is recognized by the entirety of Fairfax County Public Schools along with the country as a whole. According to the Center of Disease Control, suicide remains the

Trilogy Concert Held Chorus, band, and orchestra perform

BY ASEAL SAED Co-Editor in Chief The audience was mesmorized as the night opened with "How Can I Keep from from Singing," which featured the chorus, orchestra, and band all as one harmonious body.

The music department hosted its first Trilogy Ensemble Concert that featured the band, orchestra, and chorus on Thursday May 4.

The concert had an All-American theme with only American composers.

The concert featured each department's top ensembles for one night.

There were two songs performed total by all three ensembles all together.

Senior Andrew Lauler was the featured performer at the concert as a percussionist.

"I did a Murumba Concerto where I played solo and the band would accompany me," Lauler said.

"I was allowed to take my own tempos and be a little more freelance with what I was doing."

These students have been preparing tirelessly since the return from spring break. This event followed a busy week for the music department. The band and orchestra classes performed in Orlando, Florida and two chorus students

represented our school at All-State Choir at Virginia Tech.

Pat Vaugn and his chorus ensemble worked on the opening number and Witowski's group worked on the closing ensemble.

The students from Women's Choir, Annandale Singers, Wind Ensemble and the Philharmonic Orchestra were excited to showcase their hard work.

Each of the ensembles practiced on their own and only started practicing all together the day before after school, but most of the students spent three or four weeks performing.

"The practices were not very hard or hectic," orchestra teacher Angela Ammerman said. "The hardest thing was selecting the music because there are not a lot of pieces written for all three ensembles."

In terms of selecting a theme, Witkowski was inspired by a specific piece.

"The American theme came out of knowing that I wanted to perform the Ballad on the Republic, so we kind of worked off of that," Witkowski said.

The performing arts department continues to impress with their talents. The three different music classes have won awards and recognitions on both a local and national caliber.

The department hopes to do the concert again next year, because of its success this year.

"The students felt really good they just felt like it was nice to showcase the talents of each ensemble," Ammerman said.

second leading cause of deaths among teens.

In 2013, following three suicides within the same school year, the CDC conducted an investigation into the heightened rate of student suicide in Fairfax County. The CDC found that there have been 13 suicides among girls between 2003 and 2013.

"If a tragedy like that occurs, the administration would usually reach out to a crisis team," school psychologist Anne Brosnan said.

These crisis teams are usually composed of other psychologists and social workers that work with the school team to determine what type of support they need. The team talks to friends, students, and even teachers to help them recompose.

In response to the concerning number of student suicides, FCPS has tried to increase awareness for mental health. In recent years, a large fraction of FCPS middle and high schools have decided to implement a "Stress Less, Laugh More" week, where students learn more about how to reach out for help, or to lend a hand to another person who needs it. This educational week has now extended out to elementary schools as well.

"Every teacher in the building has been trained on what they should do if a student comes to them talking about depression or wanting to hurt themselves," Brosnan said. "Counselors are also trained know what to do if any see 13 REASONS WHY pg. 5

BY ASEAL SAED Co-Editor in Chief The upcoming School Board meeting will discuss whether athletes will have to pay $100 to join a sport for the 2018 school year.

The fee would force families to pay $100 on top of eqipment and uniforms.

This fee comes from the budget given from the county that is not enough for schools to fill their volume. With over 180,000 students enrolled in FCPS schools, the diverse needs of students doubled with enrollment growth over the past few years.

This fee and several others propositions including paying for IB/AP exams, is an attempt for the School Board to make up for the loss in the budget.

Additionally, the new fee will be used by FCPS to balance the school budget rather than support athletic programs as a whole.

If each student paid $100 for every sport they play the county would make over $2 million annually.

AHS Boosters have already voiced their oposition to the fee because "an athlete fee would unfairly and disproportionately burden the familiesof student-athletes."

Several The boosters have sent out emails to the community in an attempt to gather furthur opposition against the fees.

Income for County has not risen enough to math the costs of new students coming into the County. Nearly half of FCPS are over capacity so new revenue will have to come from a new source.

During the meting, the School Board will be discussing other fees including fees for IB/AP Exams, Pupil Placement fees, teacher to student ratios, and class sizes.

Summer Fest approaching Students can Dunk Tank a teacher

BY BINQI CHEN Co- Editor in chief midst the overwhelming testing season that has now come upon students, the Leadership class has planned an event aimed to get students to have fun and spend time together. This unique event is called Summerfest will take place on Friday, May 26th, following the early release for the long Memorial Day weekend.

Summerfest is organized in the same fashion as a local fair or a festival. There will be musical performances by students who have previously auditioned for a spot in the event as well as a variety of food and other activities.

"There will be inflatables and games, we are also going to have three to four food trucks," Leadership senior Karen Lara said.

Lara, an executive board member of the Leadership class, is also the head of the committee in charge of Summerfest.

As of now, the event has curated food from local restaurants such as Muncheez and Angry Burger.

There will also be an ice cream truck

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present.

One of the most highly anticipated events is the dunk tank that will feature faculty members.

Leadership sent its members to all the W4 classes to give students information about the chance to vote for the top three staff members that they would like to see dunked.

All W4 teachers should have a list of instructions posted in their rooms.

The voting is conducted through an online poll.

"As students we thought it be more inviting to have the power to put teachers and administration in the tank rather than having just anyone," Lara said.

On the day of Summerfest, students will have three chances to 'Dunk the Staff' for $1.

"I voted to dunk Mr. Choi because a lot of the IB students have them and they suffer in his class," said junior Benjamin Lee. "I am also pretty close with him so I think it would be really funny."

Although the event officially starts at 1:00 PM following dismissal, there is no formal schedule for Summerfest. Students are welcomed to make their way to different activities at any time they wish to. However, there will also be a schedule for performances and also one for the teachers that have been chosen to participate in the dunk tank.

"We [Leadership] are going to have a schedule posted for the performances," said Lara. "In case you want to see when your friends

Summerfest will feature many different types of food. Muncheez's food truck will be one of the vendors to sell Lebanese food at Summerfest.

perform."

Not only is Summerfest a school wide event, the Leadership class hopes to extend the fun out to the entire community. The organizing team has reached out the local elementary and middle schools to encourage the younger students to participate.

Leadership will be selling tickets starting on May 17th for $10 each.

There will also be t-shirts on sale that are related to the event.

Another way that Summerfest is expanding beyond just our student body is through a promotion called

Exploring Food Local Mediterranean resturants

Weekend 20

"Bring two, get yours free." This is in regards to the purchase of tickets. If a student brings friends or siblings that do not attend AHS, that student is able to get into the event for free just by showing their student identification card.

Typically at this time of the year, there is usually a spring dance such as Project A or Sadie Hawkins from previous years. However, with this brand new idea of a summer fair/ festival, more members from the community can attend and celebrate the end of another school year.

2 EDITORIALS

May 17, 2017

Problems with flaunting

Teachers should talk politics

Faking and oversharing does a lot of harm

BY SUAD MOHAMED Editorials Editor

Most students prefer to post pictures on Instagram over other social media.

things like edit selfies, or use certain angles and lighting to enhance them. Some people even post things that don't belong to them and say it's theirs.

Most of the things you share on social media are only viewed by people who know or at least see you often. They are aware that that is not how you really look like. When you Facetune your flaws away, a majority of the people who are scrolling through your timeline already know it exists, so unless you're doing it for yourself there is no point.

Faking on social media also makes it look like you are unapproachable and arrogant. Nowadays, people, especially teens, use social media to figure out someone's personality. If it's noticed that you are constantly posting pictures of edited pictures or tweeting a picture of your cousin's charm bracelet and trying to pass it off as yours, then people will see you as a liar, arrogant, and conceited.

People don't want to be around others with those characteristics, so you'll be avoided by some. This will put a strain on friendships and your peers' willingness to work with you.

"When people post edited pictures, they're lying because they're not showing their true selves," freshman Tesabih Omer said. "It makes them look fake and no one likes fake people."

Although many people get annoyed when people post fake things or overshare on social media, others are all for it. Some say that it boosts self confidence and wins people popularity points.

"I think that using angles and editing and all that jazz helps people bring out a side of them that is more confident and secure," freshman Kadijah Janneh said.

All in all, it's still important to note that negative things come along with showing off and lying on social media.

If you continue to edit pictures or mislead in other ways on social media, it's important to know how that will characterize you as a person to others.

In order to better protect yourself from occurrences like burglaries, it's important to remember that less is more, as in more guaranteed safety. Always make sure to turn off locations when you post a tweet or picture, so people can't find out where you live. Additionally, don't let everyone know when you're absent from your home, as that helps thieves decide on when to steal from you.

Finally, make your social media accounts private so that only your friends and family can see your posts and you can choose on whether to accept or decline follow requests.

Respect all types of controversial free speech Hate speech is protected under the First Amendment, too

ANNCOULTER.COM

With tensions extremely high nowadays due to the results of the increased political divide in the U.S., groups like neo-nazis are spewing retorts that are offensive to minorities. Both liberal and conservative politicians have participated in this behavior, too.

People are getting harassing messages on social media. Some are being confronted in public places because of their race, religion, sexuality, and gender.

Just this week, a video of a Muslim girl being harassed by a white woman while waiting in line at a Trader Joe's in Reston was posted on Facebook. The white woman threatened to get the Muslim girl deported because of her religion.

Encounters like this are happening a lot at colleges too.

In February, there were clashes between pro-Trump groups and anti-Trump groups at UC Berkeley due to a visit by Milo Yiannopoulos, an alt-right writer.

Just last month, Ann Coulter, conservative political commentator was supposed to visit UC Berkeley, too. The university faced the same problems they did with Yiannopoulos. The visit was cancelled by the university, then it was put in place again. Eventually, the university cancelled it once again, citing security reasons. In reality, many people, including Coulter herself, claimed that it was cancelled because protestors didn't want to hear what she had to say.

Racial, religious, homophobic, and sexist slurs have a lot of hatred behind them. They attack people based on things that they cannot control. These words can incite more hatred, anger, and fear.

The question is: should there be any laws against racial slurs and derogatory terms?

THERESURGENT.COM

BY SUAD MOHAMED Editorials Editor

Both Milo Yiannopoulos (left) and Ann Coulter's (right) visits ignited protests, as people were against their views.

While these hate filled statements are repugnant and hurtful to many people, they are protected under the U.S. Constitution, which is the supreme law of the land.

The first amendment states that the people have a right to practice any religion, assemble and hold protests, petititon the government, report anything in the media, and the right to free speech. The right to free speech means that as Americans, we are allowed to express ourselves in any way we like, through words, literature, clothing, and more.

Of course, there are limitations to free speech. Ranging from falsely shouting that there's a fire in a public place to defamatory statements to making and distributing obscene materials like child pornograpy, there are certain things that you cannot freely express without consequences in the U.S. The amendment protects all other speech, no matter how hateful and detestable they are. Limiting free speech because people don't like it is more harmful than letting people say rude remarks.

As soon as hateful speech is limited because people don't like it, the Constitution is going to be opened up to other possible changes because of dislike.

If certain aspects of free speech are repressed, people might try to restrict other parts of free speech that they don't agree with either. The next possibility could be limiting freedom of religion because a large group of people say they don't like the points of a certain religion.

Banning certain terms also upholds the belief that words are the issue. While they are harmful, they are not the root of problems like racism, sexism, homophobia, and islamophobia.

The real problems are bigotry and ignorance. Stopping people from saying "bad words" will not work to solve the issues. It will not heal the hurt that comes with the words.

Even though it makes us uncomfortable, the use of these terms is still protected and allowed under the Constitution. When people say hateful messages, it reflects poorly on them. We shouldn't go as far as to attack them; we should just call them out and hope that they realize that what they're doing is wrong.

The right to speak the way Yiannopoulos and Coulter is protected under the First Amendment. Their words do not incite violence, so it should be tolerated, regardless of how it makes us feel.

Staff CO-EDITORS IN CHIEF Binqi Chen Aseal Saed MANAGING EDITOR Grace Hogye VIDEO EDITOR IN CHIEF Crew McCarthy NEWS EDITORS Diego Feliciano EDITORIALS EDITORS Ruth Mekkonnen Suad Mohamed COPY EDITORS Julie Nguyen Yvonne White IN-DEPTH EDITORS Casey Nguyen Kim Vaides SPORTS EDITORS Fares Ayoub

Luke Elkins SPORTS XTRA EDITORS Jude Nanaw Ethan Zimmerman PEOPLE EDITORS SoulisaPathammavong Marilyn Rivas WEEKEND EDITORS Cameron Foti Halley Thadeus INTERNATIONAL EDITORS Lina Al-Taii Tooba Siddique ENTERTAINMENT EDITORS Lina Al-Taii Julius Miller Hussein Salem LIFESTYLES EDITORS Yabi Bereket Ivanna Perez

HEALTH EDITORS Rachel Shogren

CIRCULATION MANAGER Ryan Gammom SOCIAL MEDIA MANAGER

ADVISER Alan Weintraut

ART EDITORS Serene Ghul Kavi Shamdin ACADEMICS EDITORS Jessica Salisbury Kavi Shamdin WEB EDITOR/MASTER Victor Nguyen AD MANAGER Ryan Gammon

The Trump administration is the topic of many political talks lately.

stand the issue.

Classrooms are also healthy and safe places to discuss among peers and learn about different perspectives on things like healthcare and immigration, and teachers sharing can open up that forum.

Some high school students are old enough to vote, too. In order to make an educated decision when hitting the voting booths, they need to hear about the pros and cons of the candidates. Discussing why one candidate has a better platform than the other helps when trying to make that choice "I think it would be good for teachers to show political opinions because then we could develop arguments," senior Ramata Sesay asserted. "It would help strengthen student-teacher relationships, and help students see teachers as people."

From the time that people we are born, the opinions of our parents are forced upon us. While there's nothing wrong with our parents telling us what they think, it's not good for that to be the only thing you hear. When friends give their two cents, it's probably heavily influenced by their parents opinion too. It is important for teens to get a variety of stances, such as a teacher's in order to properly form an educated judgement.

In addition, Annandale High School has a Young Democrats and a Young Republicans club, and other high schools have similar factions. In these groups, teachers acting like sponsors already give their beliefs heavily.

If students can access their teachers standpoints in clubs, then it should be just as easy to hear their opinions in class.

On the contrary, teachers stating their opinion can be unpleasant to some. It might make some students uncomfortable if a teacher's opinion clashes with their beliefs.

Some beliefs can make students believe that the teacher is against them. Parents might take it as the teacher forcing their opinion on their impressionable children.

Above all, teachers should be able to express their political stances to older students, as it is beneficial to the students.

Heard in the Twitter-verse...

Lennon Wuhrer STAFF WRITERS Jordan Adams Sheila Agguire Kidus Ayele Mohamed Elhag Nancy Evora Teagan Foti Alaina Garay Kailyn Garay Judy Nanaw Brandon Ho Kayla Holcomb Mahdi Larhmari Lucie Lefbom Arzoo Marzi Crew McCarthy Sadie Modica Mauricio Reyes Sharon Sanchez Conrad Shartel Alex Tran Andrew White

PHOTOGRAPHY EDITORS Serene Ghul Katie Pope

COURTESY OF SUAD MOHAMED

As prom season comes closer, more and more high schoolers will be posting pictures in fancy dresses, suits, jewelry, and shoes. They'll boast fancy cars like Porsches in photos. Most will edit pictures with apps like Facetune to get the perfect prom photo. Some will post photos of expensive summer vacations in the summer.

Everyone does it, but along with the act of showing off comes a lot of issues, such as attracting criminals to steal from you and your home.

A few years ago in New Hampshire, a group of three was arrested for robbing upwards of $200,000 worth of stolen items from nearly 50 houses. When they were caught, they told police that they used Facebook to establish who had valuable items that were worth stealing.

In a study conducted by British firm Credit Sesame, it was determined that 80% of robbers use apps like Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and Google Street View to figure out which houses had expensive and pawnable items, which houses were easy to get into, and when owners were leaving.

Whenever you post a picture of you posing in a fancy house, or wearing designer clothing, or standing by a sports car, or at a resort at an tropical island you are usually posting to show off to your friends and classmates. You are also unwillingly opening yourself up to being robbed, or maybe even harmed.

Every time you click post or tweet, you could possibly letting people with bad intentions know what's inside your house, when you are away from home, and where you live.

One of your Twitter followers may very well use your latest tweet to figure out when you're away from home and if you have expensive jewelry in your home.

What's worse is that some people are buying expensive things that they can't afford solely to take pictures in them and to show them off. They are convinced that looking richer will make them feel better. In reality, they are wasting their money, when they don't have much to begin with.

Another problem with social media is when people do

COURTESY OF SUAD MOHAMED

BY SUAD MOHAMED Editorials Editor

In California, high school history teacher Frank Navarro gave a lesson to his students comparing and contrasting Adolf Hitler and President Donald Trump. In less than a week, the county had placed him on paid leave for influencing students.

Navarro's termination was wrong for a number of reasons. Teachers should be able to express political opinions to older students, especially high schoolers.

Teachers shouldn't devote entire lessons to talking about politics, but they shouldn't be punished for making comments that relate to the topic being taught. It's important to give varying perspectives to political issues.

Most teenagers are very much aware of the political issues that are going on in the US. It'd be healthy to have an educated person give their opinion on the things that they hear so much about in order to fully under-

Look out for the next tweet @theablast on Twitter for a chance to be featured on the next issue!

Annandale High School Vol. 62 No. 7 4700 Medford Dr. Annandale, VA 22003 703.642.4229 May 16th, 2017 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 emailed to theablast2016@gmail.com or 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, 2017.

EDITORIALS 3 Confederate monuments have to go We need to stop showcasing things that represent hate

BY SHARON SANCHEZ Staff Writer Some U.S. monuments are sparking controversy over the country due to their names or representations.

Many Confederate mouments, such as of the late President Jefferson Davis are being removed around the country.

Due to just how controversial and dangerous the debate has become, crews wearing masks and protective helmets removed these monuments late at night without announcing.

Confederate Monuments that were once seen as pride-worthy symbols are now being viewed as racist and could possibly be perpetuating white supremacy.

"I get that it's a part of history, but it's racist so why is it still allowed," junior, Danielle Barrett said.

While these statues might have

been appropriate at the time, they have no place in the present.

It's important to acknowledge our past mistakes so we'll never repeat them.

However, it's not just a small reminder. These monuments are still being showcased out there for everyone to see.

They're sending a racist message to the public. We express our knowledge about historical events by teaching them and learning them in school.

Most of us will never really know how much people had to deal with when it came to discrimination and humiliations in the past.

Not only is this a reminder of past discriminations because of color, but in a way, it still encourages racism.

According to the New York Times, New Orleans has taken down four monuments due to threatening demands.

With a significant amount of protests going on in the area, it was the wisest decision they could have made.

The monuments would be best relocated in a historical place to be seen for their historical significance.

The confederate states had a majority of support back in the 1800s,

PHOTO CREDIT: US NATIONAL PARK SERVICE

May 17, 2017

Caddo Parish Confederate Monument in Shreveport Louisiana. This monument is one of the many that is being considered to be taken down.

but as time has passed, we have become more enlightened. .

People want to take down more these prominent statue figures without a sweat or a slightest hint of regret. It wouldn't really be a surprise if people keep threatening to take action to put an end to the confederate monuments still standing.

"I don't see a problem with it because it's a part of American history," junior Blake Wyatt said.

However, there are many others people who think strongly about the importance of confederate monuments and how they should stay being displayed.

There are also others who simply could not care less, or just view the statues as an important part of history.

These people disregard the feelings of others because they think it's no big deal.

However, it is important to show how much of a big change America has undergone. Every day shouldn't be a step backwards, but another step forward and demolishing the Confederate monuments is doing just that.

In 1896, Plessy v. Ferguson was passed, which made it legal for people to be separated based on race.

Around that same time, lynching was seen as appropriate, and a punishment to use unjustly against African Americans.

These were probably the same type of people to think that putting these monuments up was a good idea. They wanted to put confederate figures that stood for all the racist ideals of the South on pedestals for everyone to see.

It is ridiculous that some people have to deal with these unnecessary reminders of old and disgusting ideals represented by some statues until just recently.

It is about time something is done about these tragic symbols of a terrible past.

In an ideal world, things would be done with a much softer approach towards the removal of the figures, but sometimes the best way to change something is by taking

action, even if that goes beyond threats and protests.

People that feel the need for all of the confederate statue removals have every right to support this movement.

The desire to restore and keep the statues is also valid. Whether or not people agree with the significance or insignificance of this controversial argument about the statues, it is right to say that everyone has different opinions, but it's also important to recognize what needs to be changed in order for things to move forward towards a positive outcome.

The infamous statues have no place being kept standing are a society that has overcome many issues, and for the most part, problems involving discrimination towards race are not as much of an issue as they used to be.

That in no way means that we have done everything that needs to be done. The confederate statues are just one more obstacle that must be surpassed in order to move forward as a society.

Man on the street: Should we keep confederate monuments?

"It should be taken down because it stands for racial segregation."

MYA AVE CLYBURN freshman

"No because it is part of the history and it is like a scar that has been left behind and if you forget about the scar you forget about the mistakes of the past. " DOC NGO freshman

"I think they should be kept because they remind us about a point in our history where we were fighting and it shows how we moved on from it."

ARFAT ALIYI sophomore

"They should be kept up because it's important to remember our past, even the bad parts, so we can grow in the future."

PHILIP BARLOW sophomore

"I don't think we should because it offends a lot of people and I think it is just better to take them down and not offend anybody."

"We should to preserve history."

MEGAN LEE junior

LUIS MENDOZA sophmore

"I can see why they're important since it is part of our history but I don't think it's necessary to have since we don't support the Confederate ideals."

"I think we should keep confederate monuments because it is part of our history and even though it is not a good thing, it is still a part of what makes America what it is today."

GEORGIA CHOW senior

RENZO CABRERA senior

Are we lifestreaming or livestreaming?

BY RUTH MEKONNEN Editorials Editor Last month, a 13 year old boy in Georgia accidentally shot himself on Instagram live while his friends were watching.

Facebook released a statement saying that they are going to hire 3,000 more people to review graphic, inappropriate videos to make it easier for it's users to flag and report them.

This announcement came more than two weeks before a man shot a Cleveland retiree and posted it on Facebook live.

This is one of many instances where a killing occurred on screen.

With children accessing social media more, there is a growing concern for these videos.

There have been numerous accounts in which teens committed suicide or videotapes of fights online.

"Obviously any killing is horrific and shouldn't be happening, but furthermore, broadcast murder to the world puts people face to face with it in a way that they shouldn't be," said junior Elizabeth Lauderdale.

"Facebook live and other streaming sites are tools. Like a knife or a rope, they're not inherently violent, but can be used for murder."

While there are some guidelines put in place, there is much to be done.

Society nowadays is more concerned about getting the re-tweets and the likes than the issue at hand.

We have become so accustomed to the shock value that we continue to do things to continue to shock

Facebook live has remained under scrutiny after countless deaths occured on the app

other people. It has come to a point where murders and deaths don't even faze us.

When something bad happens, our first instinct is to videotape it, or take a picture. We all either want to report that something happened rather than calling or doing something about it or not report it at all.

Many people have the mentality of "if it doesn't bother me, then it is not my problem,' but this has got to stop.

Is Prom discriminatory?

Prom falls within the same month as Ramadan

BY RUTH MEKONNEN Editorials Editor Imagine planning and fundraising for an event for years only to find out that you can't go.

This is what happened to senior Bintu Brangura and many other Muslim senior girls.

"When I heard that Ramadan was going to be early this year, I gathered some of my friends and made a petition to change the date of prom before Ramadan," said Brangura.

Although many students signed this petition, the date remained the same.

"I feel like it's so unfair for people that practice Ramadan because some people won't have another year to do it [go to prom]. It's their last year to experience the high school days but they cannot participate," Branguara said.

Prom is a part of the high school experience.

Like graduation and football

games, it is something that everyone should be entitled to do.

Ramadan is the ninth month in the Islamic calendar and is a month of fasting to celebrate the first revelation of the Quran to Muhammad.

The nature of Prom is not a suitable environment for this holy month.

Many Muslims face the dilemma of either going to Prom and feeling as though they are not following their faith, or miss out on this once in a lifetime opportunity. This is unfair.

No one, regardless of faith, race or gender should feel as though they are at a disadvantage.

Even though the month Ramadan falls in is unpredictable due to its reliance on the lunar calendar, it is still important to research and remain sensitive.

When chosing the date, the class was not aware that it would fall within Ramadan. "We were only given the option of the date in early june so it would have been during Ramadan regardless" Mathew Vogus. "We were aware of the petition but there wasn't much we can do."

Prom is a time where senior can let themselves go and celebrate their accomplishments.

"I feel like it's very unfortunate because it is something that the

The Guardian reports that the bystander effect is to blame for why people don't do anything.

Two psychological researchers who published studies beginning in 1969 experimented in many cases on people to see whether or not they would report encounters.

They came to the conclusion that the more people that there are, the less likely anyone with do anything because they rely on the other person to perform the action.

In this case, when a murder or a fight is being livestreamed, people are more likely to just watch without doing anything because they think the other person might call.

That's what happened with the young boy and that's what is continually happening today.

When hearing about all this, people are accustomed to blame the app or the company or the parents when in reality, the people who are watching instances like this occurring and not doing anything are part of the problem.

"Would these people have been killed if their killer hadn't had a weird exhibitionist thing about putting it on the Internet? We can't know for sure. But easier report options and monitoring could help curtail it," Lauderdale said.

We as a society need to evolve and change our mindset.

What if that was you in that situation? Wouldn't you want someone to help you?

The bystander is never the good guy. In fact, the good guy is the person who calls the police or tries in some way to stop the action than just sitting there on the computer watching the event happen.

It is important to use our voices, and social media, for the better and report to keep instances like this from happening.

Can you imagine how many suicides and casualties like the Texas boy playing with his gun could have been prevented if someone told him that what he was doing was dangerous or if they called the police on him?

There is only so much that Facebook live or any other streaming websites can do.

We need to stop waiting for someone else and actually do something.

Cartoonist's corner

school should have dated beforehand. They had around 9 months to plan and date prom and they should have taken religious holidays into consideration when doing that. They ruined a lot of the student's high school experience," senior Keyla Portillo said.

It is not just the fact that these seniors can't go though that is unfair.

It is also the fact that they spent so much time looking forward to this. The class of 2017 sponsor Norm Ash declined to comment.

Movies and TV shows often stigmatize Prom as a once in a lifetime, right of passage. This is an event that these seniors spent, starting from freshman year, fundraising and planning to make sure that they have the time of their lives.

"It's sad to think that this might happen next year," junior Jemela Kanu said.

Although it is too late to do anything about it right now, it is important for the future classes to learn from this and begin to consider religious holidays, such as Ramadan, when choosing the date for their functions.

ILLUSTRATION BY KIMBERLY VAIDES

We need to stop videotaping and actually do something

4 NOTICIAS DESTACADAS Sección a profundo

Especial para El A-Blast

Asesinatos en las redes POR RUTH MEKONEN Editora de In-depth El dia miercoles 3 de mayo, Facebook declaró que ellos contrataran 3,000 o más personas para revisar videos que son inapropiados y hacer más fácil para los usuarios de reportar estos videos. Este anuncio vino 2 semanas antes del disparo de un hombre de Cleveland y publico el video en Facebook. Este es uno de muchos casos donde un asesinato ocurrido en video.

Con el aumento de ninos usando las redes sociales, hay un aumento de preocupación por estos videos.

Hubo numerosos casos en los que adolescentes cometieron suicidio o grabaron peleas en-línea. La estudiante Elizabeth Lauderdale comentó que "Cualquier asesinato es horrible y no debería estar pasando, pero videograbando estos asesinatos pone a las personas en una situación que ellos no deberían estar" ademas ella comentó que "Facebook live y otros servicios de transmisión en vivo son de doble filo".

Aunque hay reglas puestas, hay todavía muchas cosas que se tiene que hacer. El mes pasado, un niño de 13 años en Georgia accidental-

mente se disparó a sí mismo en instagram en vivo mientras sus amigos miraban.

Mientras todo esto pasa, la sociedad esta más concentrada en conseguir "retuits" y los "me gusta" que facilmente entregan.

Nos acostumbramos a estos eventos que quieren llamar la atención que hasta nosotros mismos queremos hacer algo para llamar la atención. Esto llego al punto que ver estas situaciones de asesinatos y muertes no nos influye. Cuando algo malo pasa nuestro primer instinto es grabarlo o tomar una imagen . Nos importa ver en vez de llamar o hacer algo acerca de la situación o al final no hacer nada.

Mucha gente tiene la mentalidad de 'si no me afecta a mi, entonces no me importa' pero esto tiene que parar.

The guardian reportó que se debería culpar es la persona que presencia esto. Dos expertos en psicología que publicaron sus estudios en 1969 experimentaron en muchos casos para ver si la gente responde o no a estos encuentros. Llegaron a la conclusión que cuanta más gente allá, lo menos posible de que hagan algo porque ellos confían de que la otra persona hará la acción. En este

Hoy en dia las redes se utilizan para mostrar malos actos talez como asesinatos.

caso cuando una pelea o asesinato es transmitido en vivo, lo más probable será que la gente solo mire porque ellos piensan que otra persona llamara. Esto fue lo que paso con el niño, y esto seguirá continuando en el presente.

Cuando oímos acerca de esto, la gente está acostumbrada a culpar la aplicación o la compañía o los padres cuando en realidad, la gente que estan mirando estos eventos son los culpables. La estudiante lauderdale se preguntó "Podría haber sucedido que estas personas hubieran sobrevivido si

el asesino no tuviera la manía de mostrarlo en vivo? No sabemos pero monitoreando y fácilmente reportarlo puede ayudar a resolver el problema".

Como sociedad tenemos que evolucionar y cambiar nuestra mentalidad. Qué hubiera pasado si tu estuvieras en esa situación, tu no quisieras que alguien te ayudara?. Es muy importante de usar nuestras voces y las redes sociales para un mejor uso y reportar cualquier contenido extraño que esté ocurriendo.

Sección a profundo

¿Duermes lo suficiente en la noche?

POR KIM VAIDES Editora de In-depth La campana suena a las 8:10 de la mañana y la mayoría de los estudiantes están en sus sillas medio dormidos.

Empezamos el primer periodo tratando de estar despiertos, otros estudiantes se duermen en medio de la clase. Para algunos las ocho de la mañana es una hora razonable para empezar el dia, no es muy tarde ni muy temprano, pero hay muchas cosas que pasan antes de que empiece la escuela. Algunos estudiantes se levantan entre las 6 o 7 de la mañana para alistarse después tomar el bus, ir en carro o ir caminando para llegar a la escuela. La hora que nos levantamos no podemos cambiar. El único factor que los estudiantes pueden controlar es a la hora que duermen pero algunos estudiantes no duermen lo suficiente.

Con todos estos factores a quién podemos culpar por la falta de sueño, A los estudiantes? El horario de la escuela?.

El estudiante Raymond Phang comentó su propia experiencia: "Yo duermo alrededor de las 11:30 porque personalmente soy como un búho" también el comento que "En raras ocasiones no duermo lo suficiente y como consecuencia yo estoy muy cansado durante el dia".

Las horas que uno duerme varía por estudiante. Se puede decir que los estudiantes IB o estudiantes tomando clases Avanzadas son los que no duermen lo suficiente. La cantidad de tarea que reciben es más extensa

Estudiante se quedó dormido en la escuel;a

comparando con los estudiantes en clases regulares. Además, su tiempo disponible para hacer su tarea se limita debido a que están haciendo algunas actividades extracurriculares, especialmente si están en un deporte.

Estudiantes que son atletas tienen un horario más complicado: pasan 6 horas en la escuela, seguido por dos horas de práctica.Luego va a su casa a cambiarse y si quieren tener sus 8 horas para dormir ellos tienen que empezar su tarea lo mas antes posible.

Durante ese horario, cuando ellos pueden descansar? Además muchos estudiantes tienen responsabilidades, tareas en la casa que tienen que lidiar primero.

Durante este año escolar, hay muchos eventos que requieren mucho tiempo y esfuerzo por parte de los estudiantes. Por ejemplo, obras de

teatro, conciertos, excursiones, ser tutores, trabajo y servicio comunitario.

Estas actividades requieren muchas horas que decidimos hacerlo por voluntariado o por un grado. Y otro problema que ellos tienen es que la tarea se tiene que entregar el siguiente dia y estudiantes tienen que hacer eso más en adición a otras actividades.

Estudiantes se privan de dormir lo suficiente debido a que tienen una excesiva cantidad de tarea.

Generalmente cada clase dan alguna tarea que es para la siguiente clase.

También tiene proyectos, ensayos y exámenes que tenemos que estudiar e incluyendo la tarea asignada. Con todas estas actividades, hay que considerar tiempo para nosotros, nuestros amigos y también la familia.

El único tiempo que estamos libres es viernes y sábado por la noche. Como

resultado de dormir tarde no tenemos la energía necesaria para el siguiente dia.

El estudiante Hansol Yoon también comentó que "El año pasado, hubieron varios eventos en la noche por lo cual solo pude dormir 30 minutos.Así que en la mañana siguiente desperté como un zombie". También el comento que "yo estoy arrepentido de eso porque si yo hubiera hecho mi tarea antes yo hubiera tenido más tiempo para dormir".

Aunque le dediquemos más tiempo a la tarea, el tiempo dado puede que no sea suficiente. Nosotros tenemos que sacrificar nuestras horas de sueño para mantener nuestros notas y aliviar el estrés. ¿Como y cuando recuperamos nuestras horas de sueño?

El siguiente dia despues de una noche de desvelo, estamos cansados. ¿Cual es el punto para ir a la escuela cuando tu te quedas dormido en clase y no te puedes concentrar?.

Al final del día, somos estudiantes pero somo humanos. La cantidad de tarea nos puede preparar para la universidad y para nuestro futuro, pero de todos modos necesitamos un descanso. Sie estamos constantemente trabajando y estresandonos, ¿como podemos disfrutar nuestra juventud sin tiempo? Si, nosotros tenemos que desarrolla lentamente nuestros éticas de trabajo y personalidad, pero al mismo tiempo, este es el único tiempo que podemos descubrir nuestros intereses, antes de que rescamos y necesitemos un trabajo.

Sección de Salud

Trump niega los estándares de nutrición POR RACHEL SHOGREN Editora de salud Desde el programa "Myplate" hasta el programa "Let's Move", Michelle Obama defendió la importancia de hacer ejercicio y la salud para los niños cuando ella estaba en la Casa Blanca.

Pero actualmente Donald Trump está quitando todo su esfuerzo y el dinero que se puso para quitar estos programas de nutrición. La administración de Trump recientemente anunció su deseo de remover regulaciones que el gobierno de Obama puso en la comida de las escuelas.

En 2012, La administración de Obama publicó estándares en la comida que las escuelas tienen que lograr para que puedan ayudar a los niños a comer más saludable y tener una vida más sana. Estos cambios fueron los primeros en 15 años.

Michelle Obama quiso limitar la cantidad de comida chatarra que los niños consumían y asegurarse de que tienen una dieta balanceada. Ella no quería que los niños vayan a la escuela y coman alimentos grasosos, azucarados y alto contenido de sodio que generalmente crea malos hábitos alimenticios en el futuro. Con una mejor calidad de comida se espera que pueda ayudar a los niños, no solo a tener una vida saludable pero a tener una vida activa también.

De acuerdo con el USDA, los estándares que se asignaron para el año escolar de 2012-2013, conocidos como el "healthy, Hunger-free Kids act" aseguró que a los estudiantes se les ofrezca dos frutas y vegetales cada

Mayo 17, 2017

día, este cambio aumentó la cantidad de alimentos más saludables, ofrecieron solamente leche con poca grasa o sin grasa, calorías limitadas y aseguró de que sea la cantidad necesaria, y también que se enfoquen en reducir grasas saturadas, grasas trans y sodio.

Desde que esta regla de nutrición se puso en uso en 2012, republicanos y granjeros atacaron esta reforma diciendo que los estándares son muy estrictos y costosos.

El instituto de medicina ayudó a crear nuevas regulaciones designadas para ayudar a los estudiantes a mantener un peso saludable. Estos nuevos estándares costarán aproximadamente $3.2 billones de dólares.

El costo es solo una razón que trump está empezando a cortar los programas de nutrición. El afirma que la comida no tienen mucha nutrición porque estudiantes están tirando la comida.

Su nuevo secretario de Agricultura, Sonny perdue citó que los "niños son muy abiertos acerca que es lo que quieren comer y lo que no quieren" y él cree que los estudiantes están malgastando la comida porque no les gusta y generalmente el no ve el punto de darles comida saludable si al final solo costará más dinero al gobierno.

El departamento de agricultura impuso una regla que reduce los requerimientos de nutrición para la comida de la escuela. Esta regla removerá los requerimientos de reducción de sodio y dejará que la leche de sabor y 1% vuelvan a la escuela.

Purdue afirmó que hoy muchos niños se quejaron acerca de la leche sin grasa o con grasa reducida que es ofre-

Michelle Obama hablando sobre su plan alimenticio para los estudiantes.

cida en la escuelas, es por eso que él está a favor de traer de vuelta leches sabor a fresa y leches con más grasa que 1%.

Estas reglas impactaron al "Healthy, Hunger-Free Kids Act" que estaba dirigido por Michelle Obama. Ella trabajó por años para obtener estos requerimientos de nutrición como parte de su campaña en contra de la obesidad en los niños.

Con la nueva regulación de Trump, los niños van a empezar a comer como si fuera cinco años atrás. Ellos comerán comida chatarra que fue eliminada por la administración de Obama.

Este cambio fue una sorpresa para todos, especialmente para los padres de familia que se ven afectados y tambien para la antigua administracion de Obama.

Tomó 15 años para personas como Michelle obama para ayudar a los estudiante a ser saludables, también para pasar el "Hunger-Free Kids Act" que ayudó a prevenir obesidad y tener vidas saludables.

Trump se deshizo de estos después de cinco meses y sin tomar inportancia a las consequencias que esto puede traer a muchos estudiantes, especialmente en su salud y su bienestar.

De Etiopia a los U.S. POR HEMEN BESUFEKAD Yo tenía ocho años cuando vine en 2009 desde Etiopia a los Estados Unidos con mi mama y mi hermana.

Yo tuve un gran cambio significativo de cuando vine de Etiopía para los Estados Unidos.

Antes de que viniera a los Estados unidos, fui a Inglaterra por dos meses. No me acuerdo tanto como fue que me adapte ahí o cómo fue ese cambio.

Yo fui a una escuela donde enseñaban Ingles, gracias a eso el idioma no fue un problema cuando vine aquí.

La manera que la escuela funciona es muy diferente a la manera que es en Ethiopia. Por ejemplo, aquí nosotros recibimos la comida gratis y tambien aqui te sirven ellos la comida pero allá en Ethiopia nosotros teníamos que traer nuestra propia comida.

Igualmente el medio de transporte era diferente, yo estaba muy sorprendido al saber que la escuela provee buses para traerte a la escuela.

Alla en mi país, tu podías caminar o manejar tu mismo sin importar que tan lejos vivías.

También yo estaba sorprendido al ver que la

escuela no requiere que lleves un uniforme a la escuela pero sí en escuelas privadas;Alla en Ethiopia todos teníamos que usar uniformes para ir a la escuela.

Aparte de esas situaciones yo no tuve dificultad en aspectos como hacer amigos, yo estaba un poco asustado al inicio pero yo me adapte a ellos y empecé a hacer más amigos.

Fue más fácil para mi porque yo conoci bastante gente que era también de Etiopia y nos llevamos muy bien con ellos.

La educacion aqui en general no es tan similar a lo que es en Etiopia pero la escuela que atendí allá era una de las únicas que enseñaba un estilo similar a lo que se enseña aquí.

En general, la educación aquí es mucho mejor, y más organizada en la manera de cómo aprendemos y cómo las actividades están organizadas.

Otra gran diferencia que vi cuando llegue es la manera de limpieza.

Ethiopia es contaminada y la economía no es la mejor.

A diferencia, aquí en los Estados Unidos todo está organizado de una manera más correcta.

Controversia acerca de los monumentos POR SHARON SANCHEZ Escritora

Probablemente mucha gente ya ha escuchado que algunos monumentos de los Estados Unidos están causando controversia debido a sus nombres o representaciones a la guerra civil. Los monumentos confederados que antes eran vistos como símbolos dignos de orgullo ahora son vistos como racistas y podrían estar perpetuando la supremacía blanca.

"Comprendo que es una parte de la historia, pero es racista, así que ¿por qué todavía se permite?" estudiante de tercer año Danielle Barrett dijo. En el pasado eran apropiados pero hoy en dia no tienen lugar en el presente.

Es importante reconocer nuestros errores para que no se vuelvan a repetir."

Sin embargo, no es sólo un pequeño recordatorio. Estos monumentos todavía se exhiben afuera en lo público y para muchos está enviando un mensaje racista a la comunidad.

La mayoría de nosotros nunca sabremos realmente cuánto la gente tuvo que sufrir a causa de la discriminación y las humillaciones de aquel tiempo.

No sólo es un recordatorio de las discriminaciones basadas por el color de piel, pero de alguna manera, todavía contribuye racismo. Según el New York Times, New Orleans derribó cuatro monumentos debido a demandas amenazantes por parte de la gente. Con una cantidad significativa de protestas en la zona, fue la decisión más sabia que pudieron haber tomado. Los monumentos serían mejor reubicados en un lugar histórico para ser visto por su significado histórico.

Los estados confederados tuvieron una mayoría de apoyo en los años 1800, pero con el paso del tiempo, se vuelven más problemáticos.

Realmente no sería una sorpresa si la gente sigue amenazando con tomar medidas para poner fin a los monumentos confederados que todavía siguen en pie.

"No veo un problema con las estatuas porque es una parte de la historia americana", estudiante de tercer año Blake Wyatt dijo.

Sin embargo, hay muchas otras personas que piensan fuertemente sobre la importancia de los monumentos confederados y el porqué deben de permanecer en el público.

También hay otros que simplemente no les importa y ven las estátuas como una parte importante de la historia de Los Estados Unidos.

Estas personas ignoran los sentimientos de los demás porque piensan que no es gran cosa. Sin embargo, es importante mostrar el cambio en los Estados Unidos. Cada día debe ser un paso adelante, y la demolición de los monumentos confederados es sólo eso, un paso hacia adelante.

Why is this page translated to Spanish?

This section was created with the aim of broadening our reach as a publication towards the large population of Spanish-speaking students. AHS is the most diverse school in Virginia, with an extensive ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages) program, and Spanish is the second most spoken language at our school.

As a newspaper, our goal is to inform and entertain the largest possible group of viewers. Las Noticias Destacadas is a selected translation of a variety of the most pertinent articles in The A-Blast.

We hope that through this new section, we can be a more inclusive and diverse publication.

NEWS 5 Are shows encouraging suicide?

May 17, 2017

CONT. 13 REASONS WHY kid comes to them and needs help," Brosnan said.

According to Brosnan, to ensure that no student will ever come to the stage where they feel that they need to harm themselves, FCPS conducts a wellness screening every year to watch for students who may need additional support for their mental health.

There is a video about suicide and it also encourages students to reach out if they feel like their friends are in a critical situation. FCPS has also added hotlines and websites where students can go if they need immediate support.

Based on the 2015 FCPS Youth Survey given to 8th, 10th and 12th graders, there has been a 6 percent decrease in reporting of depressive symptoms.

However, the same report concluded that 36 percent of students reported high stress, 14 percent of students considered suicide, and 6 percent of students considered attempting suicide.

FCPS has strongly promoted the concept of a 'Resiliency Wheel,' a model for fostering and building resiliency in the youth. The wheel is divided into six portions: Increase

pro-social bonding, set clear, consistent boundaries, teach life skills, providing care and support, set and communicate high expectations and provide opportunities for meaningful participation.

These external protective factors can be provided by schools, families, and communities that decrease the risks factors for their children.

Parents have also displayed concern over mental health. This has led to many changes in grading policies that we see today.

Even though the school system has brought more attention to the subject of mental health, the cloud of stigma surrounding the topic persists. For most students, talking about something so deep and personal can feel uncomfortable. Often times, friends do not want to come off as intrusive or overbearing on another's privacy.

Although respect for a friend's space is important, being able to detect alarming signs and reaching out to them is also extremely crucial.

One should never wait to give support to someone they think is in an unhealthy state of mind.

No longer can we shy away from talking about mental health when so many of our

peers of our own age are experiencing something so painful and difficult.

However, it is important that attention on the subject matter should be treated with care and consideration. Mental health should never be romanticized or glamorized. FCPS has also displayed its worries over this very topic. The school board sent out letters to parents expressing their concern on the now popular Netflix series "13 Reasons Why." The series, based on Jay Asher's novel of the same name, has shown the negative impacts that silence and bullying can have on a teen.

However, the detailed plan of retribution that Hannah Baker, the protagonist, after her death is also shown.

The tapes and the reactions of those mentioned on the records have caused the show to come under fire for the idealization of suicide.

FCPS, along with numerous other school districts across the nation are afraid that the scenarios highlighted in the show may cause teens who are already under stress and instability, to follow in Hannah Baker's footsteps.

In a letter addressing families, the district warned parents about the repercussions

New Netflix series 13 Reasons Why romanticizes suicide and takes away from the fact that

the show might bring and that they should be diligent in making the choice on whether their children should watch the show or stay away.

The choice ultimately falls on each guardian, but they should nonetheless be aware and alert of the situation.

"The concern with the show is that it might encourage already vulnerable kids to kill themselves, that is the main concern," Brosnan said. "I am worried that this may

make kids think that suicide is the answer."

Suicide is never an easy subject to talk about (and it should never be easy or casual) due to the many sensitive factors involved.

But it is time that we, as active members of our community, start taking care of eachother and making sure that our loved ones and ourselves are in a safe and healthy environment, both mentally and physically.

Green Atoms given $1,000 grant to renovate courtyard $1,000 to complete courtyard project

BY BINQI CHEN Co- Editor in Chief The Green Atoms, a club dedicated to spreading awareness of environmental protection, has been awarded a $1,000 grant.

The club applied for the grant through the Department of Facilities and Transportation.

Green Atoms application was selected among a large volume of high quality of other applicants.

The committee from the Department of Facilities and Transportation only decides to partially fund selected groups, Green Atoms

President and Vice President of Green Atoms MyKim Le and Michelle Hoang applied for the grant.

among them.

The Schoolyard Stewardship Mini Grant

(SSMG) will be used to complete a project in the courtyard outside of the library. The

Green Atoms will be purchasing native plants to fill up the area in the garden. The club will also be planting vegetables and other edible greens.

"We're going to try to attract some pollinators and more wildlife," Green Atoms sponsor Anne Brosnan said.

The Green Atoms will also be working alongside the special education department in rebuilding the courtyard while also connecting the students through this team building event.

The Department of Facilities and Transportation Service aims to ensure that all students are provided with instructional spaces that encourage an effective and rewarding education. This extends to the outside environment, not just inside the classroom.

In recent school years, Green Atoms has been a club on the rise. The organization

regularly conducts the recycling from classroom to classroom and also helps with the Ossian Hall Park cleanups with the local police force.

Another event that has been added this year is the 'Wild Annandale' speaker series.

Throughout the school year, the club, along with the Science National Honor Society, have invited Interested students to come and listen to guest speakers.

These speakers share their experiences in their science fields and provide both an interesting and educational experience.

The series aims to encourage students to get involved with helping the environment.

"The events are suppose to make students more aware of nature around them," Brosnan said. "If they [students] become more concerned of what is going on around then, they're more invested."

NEWS BRIEFS SPORTS PHYSICAL NIGHT

STUDENTS 2 HOUR EARLY RELEASE AND MEMORAL DAY HOLIDAY

The AHS Bosters sponsor Sports Physical NIght on Tuesday May 23 for students to get physicals from 5:30 p.m. to There will be no school Monday May 29 7:30pm. It would cost $50. because of Memorial Day holiday. Students will be released early on May 26 at 1 p.m.

ORCHESTRA SPRING CONCERT

GRADUATION

On Thursday May 26 at 7:00 p.m. there Seniors will graduate on June 15 at 7 PM will be the Orchestra Spring Concert. in the Constitutional Hall. Tickets are not being sold yet.

SUMMERFEST At 1 p.m. , following the early release on Friday, Leadership will hold SummerFest.

The event includes food, music and other activities.

PLAY IN A DAY Students sign up and are asigned teams to direc, act, and produce in this day-long play compeition on Saturday May 20 from 8 a.m. until 10 p.m..

KEY CLUB INDUCTIONS

PHYSICS EXPO

The physics classes will hold annual On May 25, Key Club will hold its annual competition between students during class inductions in the Clausen Hall at 3:30 p.m.. in the Clausen hall from May 22 to May 24.

Seniors will be celebrated.

SCHOOL BOARD MEETING School board to discuss budget for the next school years. The meeting will be held on May 17 at 7 p.m. at Luther Jackson Middle School.

PROM Senior prom will be held on Friday June 9 on the boat 'The Sprit of Washington' from 7 p.m. to 12 a.m.. Tickets are $105 during Red day lunches.

6 ACADEMICS

May 17, 2017

New SOL policy impacts final exams

BY JESSICA SALISBURY Academics Editor As SOLs approach, a new policy has been released. Students taking non-honors courses that require an SOL now have that option to sit out for their final exam and take the grade that corresponds with their SOL score, if they pass. However, honors and IB students are still required to take both the SOL and the final exam because the grade they get on the final exam will impact their GPA. With the new policy, non-honors students can use their SOL scores as their final exam grade if they think that the score represents their best ability. Once the student receives their SOL score they can choose whether or not they want to keep the grade that corresponds with the score they earned or take the final exam to try to earn a higher grade. If the student fails their SOL it will not penalize their grade at all.

If a student decides to take the final exam, their teacher must then use the higher of the two scores as the final exam grade.

"I like this new policy because final exams are the exact same thing as SOLs, with this new policy it will definitely save me some stress and tears," sophomore Hanghyl Chang said.

This new policy will only apply to students who take and pass the SOL in the same examining year.

"I feel like this is a great idea

With passing SOL score, some students can opt out of end-of-year tests

The table on the left shows the SOL scores and the corresponding grade "regular" students can get on their final exam. Students taking regular classes can sit out the final exam and take the grade that aligns with their SOL score.

The table on the right shows how students taking honors and IB classes can get extra credit points on their final exam. They are required to take the final exam because they already get a boost in GPA from enrolling in the courses.

because it will motivate me to push myself further to try to get a better score," junior Hao Quach said.

As for Honors students, they will have the opportunity to receive extra credit on their final exam depending on the SOL score they earn.

Teachers hope that the new policy will encourage students to take the SOL exam more seriously and put in the most effort that they can to get a better score, on both the

SOL and the final exam.

Even with the new Incentive Policy others still question the value of SOLs and wonder if all of the hard work that goes into them is still worth it. Teachers and students both agree that there are both pros and cons that come along with SOLs. "One positive is SOLs provide an objective baseline to compare to other test as of the same type to measure the student's progress or

lack thereof in memorizing facts," history teacher Stratton Shartel said.

"Another favorable thing about SOLs is they paint a clear, black and white picture of what students should know when they leave the class. If a student can pass an SOL in my class for example, theoretically they have mastered World History II," history teacher Ashley Senior said.

Others find SOLs to be a great

way to provide a standard for all schools to ensure all students in the county get the same basic education.

"This is a benefit to our society overall," biology teacher Richard Ford said.

For students who are planning on going to college the standardized testing can be seen as a great way to practice and prepare for future college entrance examinations.

Even for those not planning on college, it ensures a minimum level of education that will greatly benefit that person later in life.

On the flip side there are some negatives that come along with taking SOLs. SOLs are not as good at measuring students higher-order thinking or skills such as writing, presentation skills, and creative thinking to solve problems. Students are only focused on filling in a circle rather than writing down thoughtful answers.

"Kids need different ways to express what they have learned," Shartel said.

Another con to taking SOLs is they cause so much stress and provide so much pressure for both students and teachers to show improvement in the SOL scores.

"We are able to do less creative teaching for fear of not covering everything on the SOL and our students not passing," Senior said.

SOLs can also be seen as a disadvantage for students that learn better from different teaching styles.

For example some students know the information, but have low literacy, or weak test taking skills, these students have a severe disadvantage especially if their credit for the class rides on passing a pencil and paper standardized test.

Teaching the standardized testing material can also be very boring and less engaging for many students. Forcing teachers to stick to the required SOL material can potentially cause teachers to neglect other important aspects of learning.

"In my non-SOL class I am able to do more projects, and spend more time on subjects my students find interesting because there is no timeline on when I need to finish my material for a state run test," Senior said.

Students also find SOLs to be an unnecessary extra work load added to the end of the year.

"I think finals are enough, with SOLs we don't fully concentrate on the finals and end up being a lot more stressed," sophomore Johanna Huarachi said.

Whether teachers believe that SOLs are unneeded and take a lot of fun out of the classroom, or find them to be a very good way to provide a basic education for students all over the county, students are required to and will continue to take them this year and most likely in the following years.

Do you study for your SOL tests?

"Yes, I study for SOLs because if I don't I'll probably fail."

Rudy Sarat freshman

"I guess I study but it's more like looking over notes, I don't spend too much time on it though."

Duc Ngo freshman

"I do study, but not as much as I do for fianls because I find SOLs to be easy."

Jiafu Li sophomore

"No, I don't because it doesn't impact my grade, therefore it doesn't seem necessary to study."

"It depends on the subject. If I feel confident enough then I won't study as much as I usually would."

Justin Perez sophomore

Nury Rodriguez junior

IB Spotlight: Sadie Modica

"No, I don't study for SOLs because I think they are too hard to study for and I don't know what material to review."

"I study for SOLs by reviewing notes because I don't want to retake them."

Jessica Roop junior

Caitlin Schwartz junior

"I make flash cards and review with my dad because I want to be the best Atom I can be."

Jack McCrossin junior

Sudoku

Q: How do you keep up with your academics and social life?

A: To keep up with both academics and my social life, I try to budget time for hanging out with friends and studying. Since most of my friends do a lot of IB classes or are IB candidates, academics and my social life are often times mixed.

Q: What are your studying habits?

A: When it comes to studying, I always procrastinate as much as possible while leaving enough time to genuinely get assignments done. I always cram studying for tests and quizzes because that works for me. If I don't understand something, I use outside sources or ask for help.

Q: What is your favorite IB subject?

A: My favorite class would be IB Theory of Knowledge because that's where the diploma candidates really became a community and it's an interesting class that teaches you how to think.

Q: What are your plans after high school?

Senior IB Diploma candidate Sadie Modica A: After high school I'm going to UVA and studying cognitive science, and then I intend to go to grad school for a degree in neuroscience. I'm not exactly sure what ca- Q: What skills do you think the IB program has taught reer path I want to go down, but I definitely want to be a you that can help you later in life?

A: The IB program has taught me perseversance, teamwork, writer of some sort. and leadership skills, and those are all things I believe will benefit me in the future. I have also learned to manage my Q: How are you going to prepare for the IB exams?

A: To prepare for exams I alternate between studying ma- time, I also find it easier to set a schedule so that I can get a terials with teachers, online resources, and study groups great amount of assignments done on time. with friends. I do this by rewriting my notes and making Q: Who has helped you on your IB journey? study guides based off each topic.

A: My parents and teachers have definitly helped me a great deal in IB program, but ultimately I couldn't have gotten Q: What is your extended essay topic?

A: My extended essay topic was: Was the US's use of the through the program without the support of my fellow IB candidates. atomic bomb in the WWII justified?

Q: Is your only focus academics?

A: No, my focuses are not entirely on academics. I spend a lot of time with friends and doing things I enjoy. I try to create a balance with my schedule because I think that's the key to happiness while doing the dibloma.

Q: What advice would you give future IB diploma candidates?

A: I would advice future IB diploma candidates to manage their time and to enjoy it. I would also tell them to not get too caught up in anything specific and to simply try your best. Don't stress too much because in the end things will fall into placeno matter how difficult the situation seems.

Q: Who is your favorite IB teacher?

A: My favorite IB teacher is Ms. Mast. She is one of my favorites because she is a kind and passionate person and you can really see that when she teaches. The bond she forms with her students is unique and amazing.

Q: Where do you see yourself in 10 years?

A: In 10 years, I see myself either working my way up at a newspaper or techincal writing job, or I could also see myself beginning a career in scientific research.

Q: Do you recommend students should try this program?

A: I recommend students try this program if it aligns with their goals. I have plenty of friends who chose not to do the diploma, and it makes perfect sense for them. Personally, I wanted the boost to my college applications that the diploma provides. I think that if you want to challenge yourself and do the most they you can do, go for it. The diploma candidates are an amazing community and you will definitely learn a lot from the experience.

Directions:

1. Place numbers where they do not already exist.

2. The game only contains numbers 1-9.

3. The goal of sudoku is to place 1-9 in the empty spaces so that each row, column, and each 3x3 box contains the same number only once.

Get the Answers!

On your smartphone, scan this code using the application QR Code get the answer to the Sudoku.

HEALTH 7

May 17, 2017

Administration retracts school lunch standards set

by Obama

BY RACHEL SHOGREN Health Editor From the Myplate program to the Let's Move campaign, Michelle Obama rallied for the importance of fitness and health among children during her tenure in the White House. However, Donald Trump is taking all of her effort and government money spent on nutrition away. The Trump administration recently announced its desire to remove regulations imposed by the Obama administration on food policy.

The Department of Agriculture imposed an interim rule that will reduce nutrition regulations for school lunches. It will remove standards on sodium reduction requirements, whole-grain quotas and it will allow for one-percent fat, flavored milk back in school cafeterias.

These new rules will take effect during the 2017-2018 school year.

In 2012, the Obama administration released lunch standards that needed to be reached by schools in order to help children eat healthier and have a more fit lifestyle. The meal requirements were the first changes to the standards in 15 years.

Since the nutrition standards went into pace in 2012, republicans and farmers argued for lunch reform saying

that the new requirements were too strict and too costly.

The institute of medicine helped develop the new regulations designed to help students maintain a healthy weight. The new standards were set to cost $3.2 billion.

The money was only part of the reason that Trump is beginning to cut nutrition programs. He claims that the meals aren't actually nutritious because students are throwing too much of them away. "Kids are pretty outspoken about what they want to eat and what they don't," Trump's new Agriculture Secretary, Sonny Perdue said. He believes students are wasting the food because they don't like it so he doesn't see the point in trying to feed them healthy food if in the end it is just going to cost the government more money.

According to the USDA, the standards put in place for the 2012-2013 school year, known as the Healthy, HungerFree Kids Act, "ensured students were offered both fruits and vegetables every day, substantially increased whole grain-rich foods, offered only fat-free or low-fat milk, limited calories and ensured proper proportion sizes, and increased the focus on reducing saturated fat, trans fats, and sodium."

Michelle Obama wanted to limit the amount of junk food that children consumed and ensure that they had a reasonably balanced diet. She didn't want kids coming to school and eating the sugary, fatty, and salty foods that would form bad eating habits in their future. Better quality food was requested in order to help kids live not only a healthier lifestyle, but a more active one as well.

These new rules will impact the Healthy, Hunger-Free Kids Act that was run by Michelle Obama. She worked for years to get these nutritional requirements as a part of her campaign against childhood obesity.

Purdue heard several kids complaining about the fat free and reduced fat milk that was offered in schools, which is why he is bringing back flavored milks like strawberry and milks with more fat like one percent.

With Trump's new relaxed regulations, kids are going to eat more like they did five years ago. They will

OBAMAWHITEHOUSE.GOV

Trump revises nutrition standards

Michelle Obama made health in school children a priority as a part of her goals as First Lady.

consume the unhealthy junk food that was eliminated from schools by the Obama administration.

Although school lunch is the most significant change in Trump's nutrition policy, he is starting to breach into adult malnutrition issues.

The United States spends $51.3 billion per year seeking to better nutrition in adults. According to The Hill, a malnourished adults health care costs increase by 300 percent. In order to prevent malnutrition, programs need to be in place to educate people about good eating habits.

Instead of finding programs to help the one-third of all hospital patients that present as malnourished,

Trump is proposing major cuts to programs meant to help older adults. He has begun cuts to the Older Americans Act nutrition programs, the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), and the Commodity Supplemental Food Program (CSFP).

The Older Americans Act provided home-delivered meals to more than 2.4 million older adults each year through the Department of Health and Human Services.

It took 15 years for people like Michelle Obama to get the Healthy, Hunger-Free Kids Act passed so that kids could prevent obesity and live healthier lives, although Trump got rid of it after five months.

What do you think of school lunch?

"I like it, it's not bad"

"We should have more "The meat is fake, it's "The meat is terrible, "I don't eat school "It's disgusting, I'd options." not good, I don't eat but the fresh foods are lunch, it's repetitive rather starve."

ANTONELLA VERschool lunch." good." and I don't like it."

NAZZA CORTEZ ABDIAS FUNES MARTOMMY NGUYEN freshman junior ROQUIN MARYAM ATIQUE ARVINDER SINGH AMY HAN freshman

sophomore

sophomore

junior

"I love school lunch, I miss it when we're on break."

"It's really disgusting because it's all whole grain food, and it's all SABRINA HUYNH fake." senior BRAHIM BANGURA senior

What to carry in your beach bag this summer Keep these essentials close at hand Jacket/Windbreaker

Advil

It tends to rain spurratically in the summer. Carry around a rain jacket or windbreaker to keep from getting sick. It also tends to get a little windy and chilly during summer nights. The wind can cause muscle tightness and fatigue, wearing a light jacket/windbreaker will prevent that.

You never know when you are going to get a headache, allergies or start feeling sick, Advil will help relieve pain, headaches, and fevers.

Be sure to not take too much as that might make your symptoms work. You can also carry Tylenol, Aleve, or Ibuprofen. It's important to have Advil if you are doing anything active like hiking or swimming in case you get hurt.

Flip Flops Flip Flops or sandals are easy to slip on quickly and will prevent burning, infections, and athletes foot. Make sure to wear these when walking around in public bathrooms and locker rooms.

Aloe Vera Gel Not only will Aloe Vera Gel relieve sunburn, but it can be used to treat for other purposes including: reducing rashes, moistrizing hair and scalp, providing antioxidents and boosting the immune system.

Healthy Snacks Be sure to carry healthy snacks like fruit, trail mix, or vegetables in case you start to get hungry while you are out. This will prevent you from buying the boardwalk fries which are doused in grease and oil, or the ice cream thats covered in sugar and fat. Prevent bringing anything with chocolate because it may melt and ruin your bag.

Sunglasses Wearing sunglasses on sunny days will protect your eyes from the strong UV rays. They also help prevent against cataracs, which are caused by UV rays 20% of the time.

Hat Wearing a hat will shield and protect your hair, eyes and skin from the sun's harmful UV rays. Examples of sun damage to your hair include: discoloration, dry/brittle strands, split ends, and thinning/frizziness.

Sugar Free Gum Although gum helps people focus, helps bad breath, and helps pass time, it tends to have a lot of unneeded sugar. Brands like Orbit, Trident, Extra, Stride and Five sell sugar free gum. If you have dental problems, then you should go a step further and get Dentist Reccomended' gum.

Chapstick Sun Lotion Be sure to bring sun lotion everywhere, it will help prevent against sunburn, sun poisoning, and skin damage. Also, remember to use lotion instead of spray because spray will not cover you as well.

Water Keep hydrated during those hot summer days. Drink water instead of sports drinks because it will keep your sugar levels down. It will also keep your skin healthy and prevent dehydration. You should drink 64oz. of water a day.

Sun and wind exposure cause your lips to become really dry. Chapstick will keep your lips hydrated. Be sure to buy chapstick with SPF to prevent sunburned lips.

8 PHOTO

May 17, 2017

PROMPOSA S

Senior Sabrina Huynh asked alumni Ahmed Mohamed with Wizards tickets and a poster that referenced the game.

"Honestly, I was more nervous about whether or not the Wizards were going to win game four than asking him," Huynh said.

PHOTO COURTESY OF MEGAN LEE

PHOTO COURTESY OF SABRINA HUYNH

Students find clever ways to ask each other to the senior dance

Senior Yuki Zheng asked senior David Chamul with Chipotle at the jock lobby. "I felt awkward when she asked me but happy because I knew she actually took the time to ask me to Prom," Chamul said.

PHOTO COURTESY OF CARSON GOETTLICHER

PHOTO COURTESY OF ARIANNA WARD

Senior Carson Goettlicher asked alumni Paul Getsey at her house with with song titles by the Electric Light Orchestra. "I was anxious to ask him because I had this whole elaborate idea and nothing went as planned but it didn't matter in the end," Goettlicher said.

Junior Weslely Vaugh asked senior Jessica Smith in between two shows of Cinderella on Saturday. "I was very busy with the show and I had never asked anyone to anything before," Vaughn said. "Amber Tran and Ryan Peich helped me make the posters. We caught Jessica by surprise."

PHOTO COURTESY OFSEBASTIAN SALDANA

PHOTO COURTESY OF MCKENZIE YI

Senior asked senior Arianna Ward during the Mr. Annandale show. He lip-synced to the song "Mark My Words" by Justin Bieber. Afterwards, Janice Milian and Tara El-Achi came out on stage with a poster that said, "Would you Sharii to prom with me?" "I felt really charming with I asked her to Prom," Brown said.

Senior Diego Loving asked senior Michelle Hoang on the tennis court. "I was really excited and happy to ask her," Loving said.

PHOTO COURTESY OF JESSICA SMITH

Senior CJ Nunez asked sophomore Makayla Lopez at her track meet. "Asking the most beautiful girl on the track team to go to Prom was the best feeling ever," Nunez said. "Even though it was a rainy day, her smile lit up my world that day."

PHOTO COURTESY OF DIEGO LOVING

PHOTO COURTESY OF CJ NUNEZ

PHOTO COURTESY OF DANIEL CHAMUL

Senior Michael Nguyen asked junior Megan Lee with a poster carried by the varsity lacrosse team. "Half of me was excited to ask her and the other half of me was nervous, but I definitely made the perfect choice," Nguyen said.

Senior Ryan Peich asked senior Amber Tran with her friends and posters.

"All my friends planned it with Ryan for a month without me knowing and I think it was super sweet," Tran said.

PHOTO COURTESY OF THUY TRAN

PHOTO COURTESY OF AMBER TRAN

Senior Abu Kargbo asked junior McKenzie Yi with flowers, candy, and a poster. "When I got there I saw the poster and people with their phones," Yi said. "I was so surprised and excited when it happened."

Senior Thuy Tran was asked by junior Devon Nguyen from Robert E. Lee at Mosaic District. "I was pretty surprised because I had no idea that my promposal was that day and the entire promposal was extremely cute and eventful," Tran said.

Senior Sebastian Saldana asked sophmore Leila Alajmi after school in the jock lobby. "When I walked down the jock lobby and saw all those people, I immediately started to panic because I've never seen so many phones in my face," Alajmi said. "I'm not usually the center of attention. I got so happy when I saw him, I couldn't stop smiling, it was the most perfect moment ever."

ARTS 9

May 17, 2017

Art students take trip to NYC

Retraction: Student accepted into Juilliard article is false

Students spend two days in the city visiting art museums

BY SERENE GHUL Arts Editor Senior Chaz Poindexter's acceptance into Juilliard is false. Juilliard is a school only for the performing arts and Poindexter's talent is in the visual arts. as he is skilled in painting. This is something that we should have regarded when writing this article.

There is no record of him getting accepted or receiving a scholarship from the school.

Unfortunately, he was not honest regarding his acceptance into Juilliard and told both myself and my co-editor that he had received a scholarship and his still deciding whether or not he will live on the campus in New York.

He had wrote that he has applied to art schools since his freshman year and that he received his acceptance over e-mail after receiving a phone call from the school telling him to check his inbox.

This interview was done over text message, which was a mistake from both my co-editor and I, as we could not meet up with him due to conflicting times in his schedule.

When I had asked him for a photo of him on the campus, as he had told me he had visited the school, he responded very politely saying that he would send a picture as soon as possible.

However, he never sent a photo and when I asked him for a picture of himself he said he would get someone to take it, but it never came.

The two majors Poindexter stated he hoped to obtain during his time at Juilliard are not courses offered at the school.

We sincerely apologize to everyone and anyone who was offended after the publication of this article.

BY SERENE GHUL May was a month filled with an adventurous learning experience for art students at Annandale.

The art students were given the opportunity to go to New York city for two days on April 29th to April 30th.

On the first day of the trip, the students went to the Metropolitan Museum of Art. They got to observe lots of pieces of art.

The students also walked through Central Park and Times Square, these are must-see places when visiting the city of New York.

While in Central Park, the students got to see the many different fountains as well as performing street artists.

After touring the city, the students went to Broadway where they got to see the famous musical Anastasia.

"My favorite part was the Broadway show because the actors were so good, the props, the backgrounds, lighting they used were amazing! It made it seem like we were actually there!" senior Viviana Sanoval said.

PHOTO COURTESY OF VIVIANA SANOVAL

Arts Editor

Senior Viviana Sanoval takes a landscape photo of the Metropolitan Museum of Art which is filled with many sculptures and stone made statues.

On the second day, the students went on the high line.

This is a 1.45-mile-long New York City linear park built in Manhattan on an elevated section of a disused New York Central Railroad spur called the West Side Line.

"Before the museum, we got to go to the Hyline trail. It was pretty cool because it used to be an old subway track but they made it into a trail with art pieces

and nature" Sanoval said.

The students visited Little Italy where they got to experience the shopping areas and go out to eat. spent a few hours in SoHo. This is a neighborhood in Lower After trailing the high line, the students explored the inside of the Whitney Museum of American Art. "The museum contained lots more of modern art which was really cool and different than what I have previously

seen." Sanoval said. Art students then Manhattan, New York City, which in recent history came to the public's attention for being the location of many artists' lofts and art galleries.

Students from different levels of art were allowed to come on this trip and many took up the offer.

"The purpose was to explore the various types of artwork around the big beautiful city and in general just to enjoy New York!" Sanoval said.

Band Students head to Florida and Universal Band travels to listen and learn from professionals PHOTO COURTESY OF KARLA MEJIA

BY SERENE GHUL Arts Editor Band experienced the opportunity of a lifetime after heading to Florida.

The students spent a total of four days there from April 26th to April 30th.

The main purpose of the trip was to learn how to become better musicians from professionals at Virginia Commonwealth University.

They went to hear what a professional orchestra sounds like and also to have fun at Universal Studios.

The band had its first stop at the Department of Music at VCU in Virgnia.

"We learned some cool ways to use technology from the staff to help us improve as musicians, whether it be recording ourselves or playing a game to help us improve reading music" senior Karla Mejia said.

At VCU, the students learned many music techniques in the form of games and fun lessons.

Senior Karla Mejia jumps for joy with friends at Universal Studios after spending the day riding rollercoasters and touring the park.

Students also improved their sight reading of music, in order to do it quickly and efficiently, getting the best sound and tempo possible.

After spending time at VCU, the students took a bus where they drove 13 hours to Orlando where they spent almost two full days enjoying Universal Studios.

On April 28th, the students were given the opportunity to go to the Florida Orchestra Concert event.

Poetry Spotlight: Khanh Nguyen

Featured Artist: Zea Bonanno

Choose Her

Q: What's your favorite part about art?

A:. My favorite part about art is that I'm free to do what I choose without any type of restraint or rubric.

BY KHANH NGUYEN

Choose her.

PHOTO COURTESY OF ZEA BONANNO

Q: What gave you the idea to create these pieces?

A: I write stories and these are some of the more prominent characters within those stories, kind of like my personal muses.

Q: What advice do you have for aspiring artists?

A: For any aspiring artists out there, go for it. Don't be frightened or intimidated by other artists, just do it.

On that same day, the students went to the Kennedy Space Center.

"I guess my favorite part was spending my time at Universal Studios and the Islands of Adventure because I have never gone to such a huge amusement park." Mejia said.

Even if you are not the type of person to go on big rollercoasters, there are many things to do there, such

as watching a 4-D movie, going on simulators or dancing and interacting with the many characters that walk around the park Band ended the day and their trip at Disney Springs.

"From this trip, I didn't really learn much, but I did learn that you're able to use a broom as an instrument.

I learned this from having the opportunity to hear the Florida Orchestra concert! I definitely hope to attend many of these concerts on my own time" senior Dyanna Rodriguez said.

For many seniors, this would be their last trip together with their band and their teachers.

"I personally decided to go to the Band Trip because it's my senior year. I've also never been to Florida, so it would be a great experience to visit," Rodriguez said.

Not only did the students gain a learning experience from the trip, but it was also an opportunity for students to get closer to their band mates.

Being able to get closer to their peers allows the band to improve their harmonies and teamwork.

Many students who went on this trip had never been to Florida and so aside from a learning experience it was also a cool opportunity for the students to travel somewhere they had never been before.

"My favorite part of the trip would have to be spending time with my friends and shopping for my siblings," Rodriguez said.

With a mix of roller coasters, music and friends, the trip was an amazing opportunity for the band students to learn, travel and grow as musicians.

"This trip was one of my favorites of all time" Mejia said.

Junior Zea Bonano has been interested in art for many years now.

Choose the girl whose mindset is out of this world, who has the power to start endless forest fires with the passion her eyes hold, who's unlike the rest.

She'll talk about the world in ways you never thought were able to possibly exist in such a close-minded world.

Every other girl you had and will ever have will never measure up to her.

Q: What style of painting do you enjoy best?

A: I don't truly have a favorite but the human form is most entertaining for me to draw/paint.

She's a force of nature

Q: What inspired you to do art?

A: I just found that I liked art a lot and I was reasonably good at it which motivated me to do it from an early age.

Q: How long have you been practicing art?

A: I've been drawing since as long as I can remember, I ve never taken an art class before IB Art though, so I m almost completely self taught.

Bonanno used a combination of stencils and colors in order to create this piece inspired by anime and herself.

PHOTO COURTESY OF ZEA BONANNO

You can't control her.

You won't want to as you stumble into her chaotic world.

She's not the typical idea of perfection, but typical is overrated, any way.

You'll want to hold her down, but she's not one to be held on to.

She isn't one to stay, but the way she scares the life out of you, will. It's breathtaking, her mind.

She knows what she brings to the table, so take a seat and let her serve you what the universe has granted you.

For as long as you have her, she'll be your sweetest dream and your deadliest nightmare, both a blessing and a curse, an angel and the devil, the memory you won't ever let go of.

Q: What do you enjoy about art in general?

A: I enjoy the ability to just be able to sit and pour my unspoken ideas onto paper or whatever medium is available.

PHOTO COURTESY OF ZEA BONANNO

It will terrify you to have someone so powerful, knowing in any moment, you

Bonano skecthed this piece of a girl blowing bubble gum using pencil.

could lose her.

Let it frighten you.

She's a once in a lifetime kind of love.

She won't happen again and you'll spend the rest of eternity, searching for her in every girl you lay your eyes on.

You'll know loss for as long as you walk this earth, but choose her, anyway.

10 IN-DEPTH

HIT SNO

9% of our students get 8+ hours of sleep per night

Humans spent 1/3 of their lives sleeping.

IN-DEPTH 11

May 17, 2017

May 17 2017

ZE AND REPEAT

How many times does your alarm go off every morning before you wake up?

- Sleep Education for School

Humans are the only mammals that willingly delay sleep.

In 2015, FCPS schools pushed back start times to 8:10am and dismissal to 2:55 pm to benefit student’s sleep

- Sleep Education for School

I never do

Sleep deprived, we need more time

BY KIMBERLY VAIDES In-Depth Editor The bell rings at 8:10 a.m. everyday and by that time most of us are in our seats half asleep. We begin first period trying to stay awake, and some students sleep in their classes throughout the day.

To others this may seem like a reasonable time to start the schools day, 8 a.m. is not too early or late.

However, so much happens before that. Some students wake up at 6 a.m. or 7 a.m. to get ready and catch a bus, walk or get in a car.

The time we wake up can't be changed. The only controllable factor students have is the time they fall asleep. Some students don't sleep at all. Who is to blame for our lack of sleep? The students? The start time?

"I sleep around 11:30 because I'm personally a night owl," junior Raymond Phan said. "In rare occasions where I don't get enough sleep, I'm immensely tired for the rest of the day."

The amount of sleep varies for each student. It could be argued that IB students or students with honors classes would be the ones lacking of sleep. The amount of assignments they receive is greater than non-honor students.

Additionally, the amount of time students have decreases if they are involved in extracurricular activities, especially sports.

Student athletes have to worry about spending six hours at school, followed by about two hours of practice immediately after school. Then they go home, shower and if they want to get the required eight hours of sleep, they should start their

homework as soon as they get home.

Where in that time do they have time to relax? Also, they may have personal manners and responsibilities to deal with.

Throughout the year, there are major events that take place that require a large amount of effort and

time from students.

For example, fall and spring plays, music concerts, field trips, tutoring hours, jobs and community service. These activities require a lot of hours that we either choose to voluntarily or as part of a grade. In addition to homework due next class period, students have to fit in longterm projects into their schedule.

Students are sleep deprived due to the massive amount of homework for the most part. Typically, each class gives out some sort of homework or assignment due the next class period. There are also the

projects, essays and tests we have to study for on top of that homework.

Sometimes life can get in the way and we need time for ourselves, family and friends. The only time we feel free to sleep late are Friday and Saturday nights. Sleeping late on a school night results in us drained of energy the next day.

"Last year because of current events I had 30 of minutes of sleep one night because I waited last minute. The next day, I felt like a zombie," sophomore Hansol Yoon said. "I regret doing that because if I did it before hand I could have put more effort into the assignment and I would have gotten more time to sleep."

Even if we do spend our time wisely on our homework, the time we are given still may not be enough.

We have to sacrifice hours of sleep to maintain our grades and relieve stress.

How and when do we retrieve the hours of sleep lost? The next day after an all nighter, we are sleepy and droopy. Is there a point in going to school the next day when you sleep in class and can't focus?

At the end of a school day, we are students but we are human. Having a massive quantity of homework may prepare us for college and our future, nevertheless we need a break.

If we are constantly working and stressing, how can we enjoy our youth ? Yes, we have to slowly develop strong work ethics and personality, but at the same time, this is the only time we can be a little reckless before we are become adults with a demanding job.

53%

18%

52%

Student's parents DO NOT enforce a bedtime.

Strongly agree that sleep is vital for my well-being.

76%

Of students find it harder to stay focused or awake when not receiving a sufficient amount of sleep

34%

Of students have used an overthe-counter or prescription sleep aid

Less than 3 times

39% Less than 5 times

3%

KEY = 10%

15%

More than 7 times

15%

200 surveys were sent out during pride time on May 5, 2017. 150 surveys were returned

24% 58%

Quiz: Do you need more rest?

START HERE

You just watched an episode of Grey's Anatomy.

What is your emotional state?

I straight up cried my body weight.

No.

The midnight munchies just struck you and you are...

Eating a whole cake.

Yes.

"Procrastination is the disease eating away at our productivity." lete Sam Phan said.

The Webster dictionary defines procrastination as the act "to put off intentionally the doing of something that should be done."

Instead of diving into our work right after it is assigned, we put it off to the side to complete at a later time period.

In doing so, creating more work for ourselves for the next following days.

This would then later cause us to pull all-nighters on a daily to catch up and to not fall behind.

"I rarely get any sleep in when I procrastinate," Phan said.

Time management is the key to success. Get rid of temptation and don't mix work with play. The same principle applies to your laptop.

Concentration must be maintained. Watching Netflix while completing assignments or checking Snapchat or Instagram, are all

examples of a long list that can take you from the "work" state of mind.

Because once it's broken, it will be broken for the next hour or two.

In addition to procrastination, our decisions can also play a role in our sleeping habits.

The day your counselors come into your English classroom to choose the next school year's schedule is the day you make a mental contract with yourself.

You chose the classes, you have to do the work.

If you chose to take an extra Honors or IB course, already knowing you have a full plate of extracurriculars, it is your responsibility to keep up with the workload.

If teens naturally need more sleep, one solution oftentimes mentioned is to have school later. However, this would only cause the students to push their bedtimes later as well.

A teenager's natural sleep cycle is always going to be a conflict because we choose to let it be. We always need an alarm clock or our parents to wake us up on school days. We are like zombies in the morning, barely functioning from being sleep deprived.

Sleeping in class? It is all your fault. It is time to take responsibility for our actions that put us in these circumstances in the first place.

Stressing over school is normal, but stressing about not getting enough rest is a problem.

As long as you have the right time management skills and make the right decisions, eight to tenhours every night should be nothing to fuss over.

"I personally don't because I stay up doing homework."

CHRISTIAN NGUYEN

5 Healthy Ways to Fall Asleep

freshman

"No, because I go to sleep yet and have a lot of homework some days."

SADAF KHAN freshman

"No because the teachers are not balancing everything. They give too much homework."

TIYO KEBEDE

"No, I don't think I get enough sleep because of homework and practice."

ROHAN MIAH sophomore

sophomore

A bit sick.

Bad.

Yes.

No.

Never been better.

1. Use Bedtime You don't take any Zs so you probably take Ls. Get more shut eye!

document for the essay due next week, yet not exactly hitting the 1,000-word count just yet. Saying to yourself, "I have more time, I'll do it tomorrow."

Then before you know it, the due date is around the corner and the word count remains at zero.

"I always end up doing my work at the last minute right before it's due," sophomore and student-ath-

Photograph of sophomore Mohammed Obadi. Taken by Casey Nguyen.

Have you been feeling well?

I remember everything!

Whether you're an early bird, a night owl, or a permanently-exhausted pigeon, sleep is vital to your health and overall well-being.

When you're scrambling to meet the demands of a busy schedule, either because you're an IB candidate, student-athlete or a high school student, cutting back on sleep may seem like the only answer.

In your time of need, sacrificing an hour or two of much-needed rest in order to get more done can sound like a reasonable trade-off. But this is anything but correct.

According to the National Sleep Foundation, it is recommended for a normal teenager to receive at least eight to ten hours of sleep every night to function the next day.

It has been engraved in our brains since elementary school: sleep is important. However, very few of us make it a priority to get a minimum of eight hours daily.

According to the National Sleep Foundation, teens tend to have irregular sleep patterns across the week, typically staying up late and sleeping in late on the weekends.

It is important to assess the reasons or rather the causes of why you fall in the "sleep deprived group".

Most would blame it on their heavy course load, sports, or other extracurricular activities.

Nevertheless, they are not the only factors that play into the quantity and quality of your sleep. Your lifestyle and your commitment to be successful in school play an important role in your sleeping schedule as well.

Procrastination can be a student's worst enemy. We all know the feeling.

Staring at the blank Word

Asleep in bed.

Have you gained weight?

How's your focus?

In-Depth Editor

Do you get enough sleep?

Why or why not?

Okay.

Would you say that you have been overly emotional as of late?

Procrastination and bad scheduling choices are the real causes behind sleep deprivation

BY CASEY NGUYEN

How many hours do you need to function the next day?

28%

10 Hours, No Problem

Start to fix the hours of sleep you get! You are staring to become sleep deprived.

You take lots of Zs! Keep up your healthy sleep schedule!

A recent feature for iphones is bedtime.

Go to 'Clock' and select bedtime. Put in what time you'd like to wake up and when. Then select the number of hours you desire to sleep each night. It will give you a reminder of when your bedtime is approaching

2. Turn that phone off Limiting your screen time before bed makes a difference. According to the Huffington Post, the light your brain sees makes you stay away and alert.

3. Limit water at night Typically, it seems like a good idea to drink water before bed. However, drinking water could wake you up in the middle of the night to use the bathroom.

Once you're awake, you're awake.

4. Don't take that nap Some of us, when we get home, we crash on the couch after a long school day. If you need to take naps, limit it less than hour. Otherwise, you'll mess your sleep schedule up, therefore, making it harder to sleep at night.

5. Noise to Snooze For some people, music or soft sounds can help them sleep. However, silence your notifications and makes sure only music is playing. It could also relax you from the dead silence in your room.

"No because I'm probably up doing homework."

GALLA MERCADO junior

"No I don't believe I have enough sleep because I have too much homework to do."

WESLEY VAUGHN junior

"Yes because I go to sleep pretty early, around 10, and wake up pretty early."

MARAKIE MEKURIA ANDRES TORRES

"No because of homework and life and responsibilities."

senior

senior

12 INTERNATIONAL

May 17, 2017

Exchange student spends year at AHS

History teacher Holly Miller describes hosting experience

Left: Exchange student, Daryna Hoch, with her school friends back home in Ukraine on the last day of school after sophomore year.

country."

Before coming to the U.S., Hoch went through what they call pre-departure orientation, where they explain and show how to overcome culture shock.

This orientation is held for every student that has been accepted to go study abroad, and covers important health, safety and cultural adjustment issues which is mandatory. Because of this, Hoch had a fairly easy experience adapting to the U.S. "It took me about a week to really get used to everything here, and understand how school works here, it was pretty fast," Hoch said.

One thing in the U.S. that was not very different from Ukraine was the weather.

"I would compare the weather in Ukraine to the weather in Ohio, maybe just a little warmer," Hoch said.

Hoch visited Ohio to visit her host family relatives and for Christmas.

Hoch came to the U.S. on August 18, 2016 and she will be leaving on Tuesday, May 16, 2017.

Hoch has enjoyed her time in the U.S. and expressed how she would come back again to visit or even to study again.

"I would love to come back to study in the U.S. because I think the education system is more comfortable and better quality than back at home," Hoch said. "My host family is quite chill and I love it here."

Daryna Hoch is a junior exchange student from Ukraine. Through the Future Leaders Exchange Program (FLEX), Hoch was able to transfer to the United States with all expenses fully paid by the U.S. Department of State.

Hoch's stay here in the U.S. is an entire school year long.

"The Future Leader Exchange Program is in every Ukrainian city, and all we have to do is go into the centers the organization is located and take tests which have three rounds," Hoch said.

Hoch explained that the process of coming to the U.S. was fairly simple. The first round tested grammar, the second had students write three essays, and the third round was an interview with a member of the American council and a game with other students, along with an essay.

"Once I passed all the tests I was able to come to the U.S." Hoch said. "There were a total of 10,000 students that applied to go study abroad from Ukraine, however only 200 got through."

While being in the U.S. as an exchange student, Hoch stayed with what is called a host family, a family who volunteers to take in the exchange student to live with them.

When arriving to the U.S., Hoch was pleasantly surprised by the drastic difference from her hometown in Ukraine.

"Everything here is different from back home: the food, the culture, the schools and the people," Hoch said.

There is a huge difference between

PHOTO COURTESY OF DARYNA HOCH.

BY KAYLA HOLCOMB Staff Writer

Daryna Hoch with the other students who were chosen to go study abroad.

the schooling here in the U.S. and in Ukraine. Rather than having three different schools to go through: Elementary, middle and high School, however in Ukraine they are all combined into one school.

Here in the U.S., there are a lot of students in one grade; however, in the Ukraine, the amount of students in each grade is very small.

"At home there are about 60 people in my grade, unlike here in the U.S. where there are like 500 in each grade," Hoch said.

In Ukraine, unlike the U.S., students are not allowed to pick their classes.

Students have a set schedule of classes that they have to complete that are made by their counselors. In Ukraine students have a different schedule each school day but here in the U.S., Hoch takes around 13 to 14 classes.

Back in Ukraine, electives such as

marketing, theatre and film study are not offered to students which is why Hoch has been taking them here. Hoch aspires to become a journalist or further her career in cinematography.

"Back in Ukraine, the education system tries to make kids more competitive in studying and that's why we don't have that much of extracurriculars, activities, sports and stuff," Hoch said.

Unlike the U.S., where you get to pick your classes, in Ukraine schools don't allow that.

"I love my IB film study class the most because I don't get to take it back home," Hoch said.

Hoch was also surprised to see how America was such a diverse country.

"I never thought of America as a diverse country, when I got here it was a lot different," Hoch said. "The culture and food are all mixed up and I really liked how I get to experience it all in one

Q. How did you decide to house Daryna?

A. My brother had done this a couple of years ago.

He hosted an exchange student, so I wanted to do it myself and just looked up the organization.

Q. How long does this last?

A. This program is basically for one whole school year. The student came in August of 2016, and is leaving mid May of this year, right before the school year ends.

Q. How did the paperwork, work?

A. Actually it wasn't that long of a process. I filled out the paperwork and gave an interview. That was basically all I really had to do from my side to host the student.

Q. What do you think about going abroad to study in general?

A. I am a big advocate of taking on the opportunity to going abroad to study. Also, as a history teacher I think that it is the best way to learn about history and other cultures and it also helps broaden your global perspectives.

Q. Is this experience rewarding?

A. Yes. definitely!

Q. Would you do it again?

A. Yes, certainly. I think it is a great experience.

Q. Would you encourage other people to do this?

A. Definitely! I think students should take on any opportunity they get to travel and explore new places. I really encourage it. Whether you decide to study abroad, work abroad, visit family and friends or in general just visit a new place.

Would you take on the opportunity to study abroad?

JOSE GARCIA freshman

"Yes, definitely! I've always wanted to travel across the world to explore different cultures and how people live and study."

ANNIKA YUNGNER

"Yes I'd love to go abroad just to study other cultures and see how different their education system is from ours."

TRAE ALLEN

'I think it would be quite fun to go to another country to study and meet new people."

ALISON SCOTT sophomore

sophomore

"Of course I would take on the opportunity to go abroad because it would be great to get to know a new environment."

JASON HA junior

freshman

American stories

BY HEMEN BESUFEKAD Special to The A-Blast I was eight years old when I came to the U.S. from Ethiopia in 2009, with my mom and sister. I experienced a huge change from how I lived back home in Ethiopia.

Before I came to the U.S., I lived in London for about two months. My memory is still foggy about how things went and how I got used to things from that point on.

I went to a school where they taught English, so the language wasn't that different for me or much difficult to understand.

The way they ran things here in school

Besufekad grew up in Ethiopia's capital, Addis Ababa

was very different than how it was in Ethiopia.

For example, they have free lunches or they even serve lunches here, but back in Ethiopia you had to bring your own lunch.

Transportation was different there as

"Yes, definitely because I've only gone to another English speaking country and it would be nice to learn new languages."

"No, I wouldn't go to another country to study because I like America and the education system here."

ZEA BONANNO

TOMMY NGUYEN senior

junior

"Yes, I would love to go abroad to study because I want to see different cultures and experience something new."

KASEY RICHITT senior

First person accounts of coming to America

well. I was very surprised to find out that there are school buses that take you to school.

Back home, you had to either walk to school or drive yourself, no matter how far you lived.

Also, I was surprised when I saw that here in the U.S. uniforms aren't required for public schools but only for private unlike in Ethiopia where everyone was required to wear uniforms to school.

It wasn't that hard to make friends here, I was kind of scared to at first but I got used to everyone and started to make more friends.

It was easier because I met a lot of people that were also from Ethiopia and

we bonded pretty decently.

The education system here in the U.S. isn't at all similar to how it is in Ethiopia.

However, the school I went to was one of the few that taught like students are taught here.

Overall, education here is still much better, and it's way more organized when it comes to the way we learn or even how activities and extracurriculars are arranged.

Another major difference I saw when I first arrived was the cleanliness.

Ethiopia is quite polluted and the economy isn't at its best either. However, here in the U.S. everything is organized in a great manner.

PHOTO COURTESY OF HEBEN BESUFEKAD

"No, because I'm not comfortable in new places, but it's good because you see many other cultures."

Sophomore Hemen Besufekad, who moved to the U.S. in 2009 from Ethiopia.

LIFESTYLES 13

May 17, 2017

Thrift until you can't lift Go thrifting with me

BY IVANNA PEREZ Lifestyle Editor Just like Macklemore "popped some tags" in his famous hit song Thrift Shop, last Saturday, I spent the day driving down to Mosaic District with my mom and brothers to a well known thrift store called Unique to do my own thrift shopping.

Unique is a thrift store that gets its business from people donating any unused or good conditioned clothes, shoes, accessories, home goods, children's toys, furniture, and much more. Many people enjoy it for its wide selection of just about everything.

Although Unique has a large variety of different types of items, I knew from the beginning I was focusing on searching for clothes and things to wear. I walked right in and first made a beeline to one of my favorite areas: the accessories rack.

I looked around and there were many different things to choose from such as bracelets, rings, earrings, necklaces and so on. After searching for a while and browsing the many unique items, I found loads of things I liked, but I ended up limiting it down to purchasing a pair of bracelets that I thought were the right fit for what I wanted.

The first bracelet had small and different sized marbles with evil eye designs all over them and dangling dophin charms, and the other one was a black and cream colored wooden bracelet with hints of marble patterns, both of which I

Bracelets from Unique purchased for the low price of 99 cents.

After that, I continued walking to the shoe and hat section, but there weren't any items that caught my attention at first glance, besides a black and blue beanie.

Next, I went to the shirt section.

I looked around for 15 or so minutes and found a t-shirt with the superhero Batman on the front of it. I bought it for $4.99 which I thought was reasonable.

After that section, I walked into the dress section. I looked through the many aisles of the dresses for a while and finally found two really cute dresses. I tried on both of them and they were just the right size.

One of them was a navy blue and white aztec print dress that reached

Second hand stores nearby

my knees and had slits at the bottom, and the other was a red and white knitted mandala print dress that reached my ankles.

It was a type of variation of a maxi dress. A mandala print is a design mostly associated with hinduism, that incorporates a type of intricate design, usually of flowers, that is decorated with lots of lines, curves, and simple shapes that create a beautiful finish.

I bought them both for $12.99.

Both dresses were both very nice quality, beautiful and were worth the money.

I spent more than an hour and a half looking through a large quantity of the store, and spent about $32.00 on clothing and accessories. I got approval from my friends when they saw what I purchased, so I knew they were the perfect items.

In the end, I learned that going thrifting is not such a bad thing. I had a great time browsing through the many options of clothing and accessories they had to offer, and it was all at a well rounded price.

I bought four things in total for $32.00 whereas other, more common stores such Forever 21, may sell lower quality clothes at an unappealing price.

I prefer shopping at thrift stores rather than going to the mall because I think of my style more as retro and every time I go to a thirft store, I will always find what I am looking for.

Overall, it was a successful trip and was worth every penny.

DIY with Katie Pope:

UNIQUE 2956 Gallows Rd, Falls Church, VA 22042

TREASURE TROVE CONSIGNMENTS 7010 Columbia Pike, Annandale, VA 22003

Unique is a thrift store located down in Mosaic which is a bit of longer drive, but is worth it because of the vintage-y retro style clothing that they sell there.

Treasure Trove is a small thrift store located on Columbia pike that sells more than just clothes; they have books, glassware, and more.

GOODWILL 7031 Columbia Pike, Annandale, VA 22003

SALVATION ARMY 6528 Little River Turnpike Alexandria, VA 22312

Goodwill is a well known thrift store located here in Annandale. They have clothes for all ages and they sell books and knick knacks all is within a good price.

The Salvation Army is a charitable organization located on Little River Turnpike; they sell just about everything ranging from clothes for all ages, furniture, art work, books, music, and much more.

Materials Needed: - scissors - shirt - pen - ruler 15 minutes

Homemade tank top

1.

Straighten out the shirt.

5.

Cut out the neck line from the shirt.

2.

6.

Measure how much you want to cut off the shirt.

Cut a complete striaght line off of the bottom of the shirt, then cut fringes off of the shirt from where the srtraight line at the bottom was cut.

3.

7.

With a pen, mark where you are planning to cut.

4.

Cut both the sleeves off of the shirt.

Once the fringes are cut off, start braiding the cut pieces together.

8.

The final product.

FASHION SPOTLIGHT

Ramirez dresses in layered clothes and ripped black jeans posing for a photoshoot.

Q. How did you learn how to dress?

A. I just learned by watching what other people wore and put my own twist on it.

Q. How long does it take you to get ready?

A. I usually take about 15-25 minutes to get ready.

Q. Where do you like to shop?

A. Thrift stores because it's cheap and cool, H&M is actually the plug, or places like Marshalls.

Q. How much do you usually invest in clothing?

A. Usually I spend $40-50 on myself each time I go shopping.

Q. What are your favorite clothing pieces?

A. Some of my favorite pieces are either one of my shoes or my basic hoodies.

Q. What are your favorite pair of shoes?

A. My favorite pairs of shoes are my bred 11s. I don't wear them often but definitely my favorite.

Q. What is your outfit for school or a date?

A. For a date I would wear a white shirt with a flannel, distressed black jeans, and NMDS cause they're comfy.

Q. Do you dress to impress or dress for yourself?

A. I dress for myself, but it's nice to get a compliment, I don't care much though.

Q. On your lazy days what do you prefer to wear?

A. I prefer to wear sweats, a t-shirt and a cap.

Q. Who is your fashion inspiration?

A. Honestly I get most of it off of social media but if I had to choose it would be a Youtuber named Richie Lee.

Q. What is your favorite season to dress for?

A. My favorite season is Autumn because it is not too cold and I can still layer my clothes or wear shorts.

Q. What's your favorite accessory to add to your outfit?

Ramirez poses for another photoA. My favorite accessory is a hat; I love to wear my shoot picture. dad's hat, it looks good and brings a more casual style.

Photo courtesy: Angel Crespo

Photo courtey: Angel Crespo

Raymond Ramirez, 10

14 PEOPLE

May 17, 2017

BY SOULISA PATHAMMAVONG People Editor After graduating from University of Notre Dame in 2014 with a Psych degree, class of 2010 alumna Marye Colleen Larme made the decision to take a gap year working as a legal advocate for survivors of sexual assault.

Larme did her year of post-graduate service in San Jose, California through the Jesuit Volunteer Corps (JVC). JVC is an organization that places volunteers in full-time work positions at non-profits around the United States.

They work in inner city neighborhoods and rural communities to help the homeless, abused women and children, immigrants and refugees, and more.

When making this decision, she knew that it would be a good opportunity for her to do something related to social justice and to directly work with people.

"I applied to the position because I wanted to support people in need through a counseling-type role," Larme said.

As a legal advocate for surviors of sexual assault, she was able to connect them with wraparound care and support during criminal investigation proceedings.

The experience was both incredibly rewarding and incredibly challenging for her. She loved getting to work with her clients and seeing the strength that they possessed through the hardest time of their life.

"It sounds cliche, but I was

inspired by my clients every day."

"It sounds cliche, but I was inspired by my clients every day," Larme said.

In addition to that, Larme also gained a lot more than she expected from her experience.

"I learned how to be more supportive of people in a way that's right for them, versus trying to be helpful in a controlling way that's not actually helpful for them," Larme said. "I also learned that direct service, at least in

that capacity, actually wasn't right for me. I had a lot of trouble separating my work and life during that year."

For any student planning on taking a gap year, Larme's advice is to just do it! She believes that you grow so much, learn so much about yourself, and are richer bringing that experience wherever you go next. Larme has three tips you should follow if you plan on travelling during your gap year.

Firstly, figure out what you want to get out of it to the extent you can and make sure you're "running to something, not from something." Secondly, it is important to be financially realistic.

"I know AmeriCorps programs provide assistance with student loans, but there are programs out there that will be financially break-even, and some might even cost money," Larme said. She advises that you have to do what is right for you, given that you're losing a year of income.

Lastly, don't worry how it will look on the outside, in the view of your friends, or even college admissions.

"Don't be afraid of being a year behind your peers education-wise, things even out over time. If you plan to go to college, it will be there waiting when you're done and they will be lucky to have you!" Larme said.

Larme has heard of students doing it after high school rather than college and believes that that's amazing and takes so much boldness to break out of the mold, but she truly enjoyed her high school experience.

Larme took pleasure in her time at AHS, even though she only attended it during her junior and senior year.

"Everyone in my classes were so welcoming, down to earth and friendly," Larme said. "I loved Annandale! I loved how it was a giant high school with so many different types of people that there weren't really any cliques."

From her experience at AHS, what stuck with Larme was the encouragement of her teachers in the IB program, learning alongside students from other cultures and languages, and the friendships that she developed.

As of right now, Larme does research at a firm that serves university and community college leaders. Although it is something different than what she was doing in California, she does not regret making the choice to take a gap year because of the unique experience she received.

PHOTO COURTESY OF MARYE COLLEEN LARME

Alumna discusses a year of mission work

Larme working at her organization's annual fundraiser called "Walka-Mile," at which community members join a walk where participantseven the men- do a walk in high heels to raise awareness and support for sexual assault and domestic violence prevention and support.

WHO AM I? I attended: Bridgewater College in Virginia.

I majored in Communciation Studies. I was on the football team, but spent my four years on 2nd-6th string. However, in one of the better moments of my life, I caught my first and only career touchdown on senior night. It was extra special because my parents, sisters, grandparesnts, aunt, uncle and cousins were at the game too. I continued my education at George Mason University, where I finished my Master in Special Education.

Before teaching at AHS: I had dreams of becoming a sports talk radio host or producer. A talk my junior year of college with Coach Adams put teaching as an idea in my head. During high school, college, and right after college I worked at my friendly Neighborhood Safeway. I actually continued to work at Safeway. I started as substitute teacher and coaching football and baseball. I loved the job. With Coach Scott teaching me the ropes, I was hired on a provisional license and have never left.

I was born in: Alexandria, Virginia. I spend most of my childhood in Springfield,9-* Virginia and attended North Springfield Elementary, Holmes Middle, and Annandale High School. At Annandale I had Mr. Weintraut all four years, had history with Mr. York, Mr. Valentino, and Mr. Jepson (as a student teacher). I was also coached by Coach Scott and Coach Maglisceau.

I teach at AHS because: I feel I can make a difference and help students have a great experience just like I did. I have no desire to teach at any other school. For me, there is Pride in being an Atom. I made life-long friends while a student here. I was taught by great teachers. I was coached by great coaches who cared about me and the team.

I want to make sure that future Atoms feel the same way. I also really like my job, why would I want anything different?

TITUS' DRIVING SCHOOL 1. The school is bonded and insured 2. Students do not need 45 hours driving time prior to the program 3. Parents and students can Google the Titus driving school for school reviews 4. Students don't have to pay until they get their driver's license 5. If you bring your friend along, you get $25 off your payment.

6. If you're 18 years old, you don't have to hold your learner's permit for 9 months.

Phone: (571)-217-1441

Email: titusdrivingschool@gmail.com

VA State LIC # 1503-00634

In my free time: I love attending live sporting events. I have season tickets to the Georgetown Hoyas and Washington Redskins.

I love going to O's games and Nats games. I also enjoy playing sports. I am a member of the Arlington Shockers, a premier men's league team playing the Federal Baseball League. I like playing sports with Mr. Aldenderfer. I hoop everyone Tuesday and Friday before school.

I am the proud founder of the Dude's Tennis League. Outside of sports, I enjoy traveling, grilling, and being around people that make my life better.

On your smartphone, scan this code using the application QR Code to find the answer to the Who Am I.

SPORTS X-TRA 15 School to hold summer sports camp May 17, 2017

AHS to host interactive sports camp for future student-athletes JUDE NANAW AHS will hold a sports camp consisting of games, competitions and drills for multiple sports such as football, basketball, baseball, volleyball and soccer.

The summer camp, taking place from June 26 to June 30, is designed for the skill development of future AHS students and is intended for rising third through ninth graders.

With the hardships faced by many sports this school year and with many student athletes participating in sports with limited prior experience, the camp looks to groom future athletes and improve their skill sets for sports they look to participate and compete in the future at AHS. Coach Christopher Bagot, who is running the camp in its first year described his many different reasons for wanting to have it.

"One of the main purposes for the camp is that I want to expose kids to sports that they haven't played before," Bagot said.

The camp will also include current varsity players that will help in the competitions, games and expanding of the skill sets of campers in the number of different spots.

They will be expected to contribute to the various activites during the summer camp.

With the competitions and drills set to take place

COURTESY OF BRIAN ZIMMERMAN

Sports X-tra Editor

Senior Liam Conroy working with future student-athletes at a session of the winter baseball camp on January 22.

during the camp, this will provide an opportunity to increase the experience and competitiveness of the future student athletes.

Similarly last winter, Atoms baseball held a winter baseball camp for younger grade levels to help prepare the future student athletes for playing high school baseball by working on fielding, pitching and hitting skills.

"The baseball camp was great for us players because we got to help with bettering the skills of younger players," junior Ryan Gammon said.

One of the hopes for the summer sports camp is to familiarize younger students with sports and to have them sign up earlier to participate in sports. Hopefully, this would increase participation in school sports in the

future.

"As the baseball coach, I had about eight kids on the team this year that have never played baseball before," Bagot said. "Now I can say maybe that kid that I find in third grade at this camp, I can get him signed up earlier so that he'll be more familiar."

Another purpose for the camp is to build a connection between different schools in the area.

"One thing that I want to do is build a relationship between the elementary schools, middle schools, feeder schools and Annandale High School," Bagot said. "I want parents to be comfortable sending their kids to Annandale and the kids to be comfortable as well."

The camp will also provide an opportunity to identify future students that could be potential athletes on different teams upon their arrival to AHS which will be beneficial in the long run.

"I want to start a system where there will be a seventh grade team and an eighth grade team," Bagot said.

"That way I can identify the kids a little bit earlier before they get to Annandale."

Another factor in having the summer camp is provide a competitive and sports-oriented environment at an affordable price.

"We want to give a wholesome environment at a lower price and have a blast," Bagot said.

The cost for the five day camp will be $125 for grades three through nine.

The summer camp will provide a great opportunity for lower grade levels to attend AHS in the future not only for the enjoyment aspect but for an opportunity to be exposed different sports, improve skills and engage in competitions.

Which team will win the NBA Finals?

BY JUDE NANAW Sports X-tra Editor With the Western Conference Finals series underway and the Eastern Conference Finals picture just a game away from being determined, the NBA is getting closer and closer to crowning a new championship team.

From the very beginning of the season, the heavy favorites to make the finals have been the Cleveland Cavaliers and Golden State Warriors and it appears that the teams have been on a collision course to meet for the third straight year.

In the East, the Cavaliers have been dominant walking through both the Indiana Pacers and Toronto Raptors, sweeping both teams four games to none in the first two playoff series.

"The Cavs are playing some of their best basketball of the year," freshman Syed Ali said. "From what it looks like, there's no other team in the Eastern Conference that can stop them."

The Cavs have been led by four-time MVP and 3-time champion LeBron James who averaged 36 points, five assists and eight rebounds in the team's series against the Raptors.

Cleveland's second top scorer currently is point guard Kyrie Irving who has averaged 23 points in the team's last five games.

"They (Cleveland) are just too good when James, Irving and (Kevin) Love are all healthy," Ali said.

Kevin Love, the final member in the Cavalier's "big three" has had decreased production in the playoffs as the power forward averaged only 12 points against Toronto.

The Cavs are set to face the winner of game seven in the Celtics-Wizards series in the Eastern Conference Finals (Results to the Celtics-Wizards game seven matchup were not available by the publication date).

"I really hope to see the Wizards make the Eastern Conference Finals as they are the hometown team," sophomore Kyle Dalsimer said.

In the West, the Warriors have also been dominant sweeping their first two opponents, the Portland Trail Blazers and Utah Jazz in their opening two playoff series.

The Warriors have been led by backto-back MVP Stephen Curry who has averaged 27 points throughout the team's last five games.

The biggest acquisition last offseason which belonged to the Warriors in the signing of superstar Kevin Durant has added to the buzz around the team resulting in being called "unfair" and "overpowered".

While it is true that the Warriors have

four All-Stars in their starting line-up in Klay Thompson, Draymond Green, Curry and Durant, the team did finish at 67-15 this regular season, six games worse than last year.

Durant's impact has been somewhat limited as well, being second in points per game on the team and averaging 21.6 points in the last five games despite being plagued with injuries throughout the season.

The team faced a San Antonio Spurs team fresh off of a 4-2 series win against the Houston Rockets on May 14 in game one.

The Warriors narrowly defeated the Spurs 113-111 in a game that came down to the wire.

"I think the Warriors will easily make it to the finals and then win the championship," sophomore Amir Aburish said.

"They have too many weapons and no matter who they end up facing, it's just going to be too hard to defend them."

With this year heading towards what will most likely be another Cavs-Warriors rematch in the finals, the NBA could be facing much more serious backlash if this same match-up repeats itself over and over again in years to come.

The argument has been made that despite any team that LeBron James is on having a chance to make the finals, the Cavs' path through the east lacks any real

How do you stay fit over the summer?

Player Profile: Robert Figley Grade: 12 Sport: Rugby

Q: When did you start playing rugby?

A: I started playing tackle rugby in the sixth grade.

Q: What made you want to start playing rugby?

A: My dad has been playing rugby since he was in high school and still plays today. He is the reason why I started playing.

PHOTO COURTESY OF ROBERT FIGLEY

Q: How long have you been playing rugby?

A: I have been playing rugby for around seven years, but I have been around the sport my whole life.

Q: What team and league do you currently play rugby in?

A: I play for the Fort Hunt Warriors. We play in the Mid-Atlantic Premier League and the Rugby Virginia League.

competition.

And despite the Warriors having a slightly more rigorous opponents, the team still does have a load of stars on the that make thewell overpowered.

If viewers get more of the same in coming seasons, the NBA may see a loss in interest from fans.

Figley sprints downfield in a game for Fort Hunt.

Q: What is the most challenging aspect of rugby? and basketball happens in the off-season so it isn't A: The most challenging thing about rugby is having to tackle guys that are a lot bigger and older hard. than you.

Q: Have you committed to play rugby in college and where?

Q: What other sports do you play and which one A: I have committed to play rugby at the University is your favorite? of Arizona this fall.

A: I play basketball, golf and also swim in the summer. Basketball is probably my favorite sport.

Q: What are your future goals for your rugby career?

Q: How do you prepare for rugby in the A: I hope and will work hard to start and to be offseason? selected for their sevens team at Arizona. I also will A: The only off-season for rugby I have is in the work to be selected for a men's junior All-American winter. I play basketball during that time and also tour next year. lift weights to stay in shape and keep my strength up.

Q: What do you usually do to prepare for a game?

Q: Is it difficult to balance school, rugby and A: I usually prepare for games by listening to music other sports you play? and watching some game film. When I get to the A: It isn't too hard to balance school and rugby for field, I usually go through a thorough warm-up and most of the year but in the spring it gets a little prepare myself for the game mentally. hard because I'll usually have conflicts with major tests and tournaments that I have to miss school for. Golf is easy to balance with my fall practice

"I go on a lot of jogs through my neighborhood over the summer and also go swimming."

"All of the cross country team has organized practices over the summer to train for the season."

"I stay fit over the summer by going to the gym, running on the treadmill and eating healthy always."

JAYLA IRVIN

"Coach Scott has got us waking up early in the morning to work out and stay fit to get ready for football season."

JENNIFER SANCHEZ

NATE PETERS

sophomore

ANTHONY CARTER

freshman

freshman

"To stay fit, I usually just go on runs and I also hit around with a field hockey sitck since I play field hockey in the fall."

MEGAN LEE junior

"I stay fit over the summer by going to the gym and also going on runs."

sophomore

"I like to do long runs with my friends and do other running workouts to stay fit."

LEVI GOMEZ

DYANNA RODRIGUEZ

junior

senior

"This summer I plan on joining a gym and lift weights and do pull-ups to gain muscle."

MARQUZ SUMMERS senior

16 SPORTS

May 17, 2017

Track brings home hardware Runners win multiple events and improve times at opening meet

BY RYAN GAMMON AND FARES AYOUB

COURTESY OF JOSEPH MCCOY

Circulation Editor and Sports Editor With conference right around the corner, boys track hit it home with a good start to the season placing second at the first meet (Chantilly High School) of the season. Having prepared in the off-season, the boys have been ready to show talent, proving that they are not the underdogs for this spring track season.

With a good and enthusiastic mindset going into the next race, the boys are confident that a first place trophy for the Atoms is not far away. Having a strong running core for the 4X400 and the 4X100, already qualifying for regionals and trying to get a bid for states.

A big factor to a good team would be injuries, but no injuries have been present making the fifth man the most important and may have to step up at any time during the season. While a team effort has been the key to success this year, the Atoms hope to place at least third in the conference, but with the attitude of the runners, first place is still doable for the boys. "I listen to music and try to get into a zone and then go off and stretch", Mckiver said. "This season so far has been a blast,"said Mckiver.

ssTRACK UPCOMING EVENTS

AND REGIONAL QUALIFIERS

The next meet is May 15 at South County and the boys have a chance,with some concentration and a motivating teammates, to bring home the gold for the Patriot Conference.

"The new coach is probably the best I've had since my freshman year and he's the 4th coach I've trained with and he's by far the best one and I owe my accomplishments too", Senior Dagim Tigabu said. "I prepare by eating a lot of carbs and listening to my pre-race playlist and stretching a lot,"Dagim Tigabu said. "This year I think over the three seasons I've gotten about 11 medals," Dagim Tigabu said.

"I prepare for meets everyday by taking a bath in epsom and putting together my track bag the night before the race", freshman Jay Pendarvis said. "Before every meet I take my cross necklace in my hand and pray to God to be with me through the race", Pendarvis said. "I'm most proud of my medals from conference regionals and States," Pendarvis said.

"It feels great knowing that other schools are scared to lose to you," Senior Mahtime Tigabu said.

"I prepare for meet my eating right and getting meals ready to race."

"I have gotten 10 or more I think but the one I'm most proud of is the regard relays. We broke the school's 4x1600 record.

"It feels amazing to know that we have a strong team in the conference because last year was not the greatest and this was a totally different outcome", junior Mathew Mckiver said.

Patriot Conference Tuesday May 16 @ South County Wednesday May 17 @ South County Regionals Thursday May 25 @ Robinson Secondary Qualifers(at this time): Mathew Mckiver: 4x400- meter, high jump and long Jump Jacob Weber: 110 and 300-meter hurdles and 4x100-meter relay; Joseph McCoy: 110 and 300-meter hurdles; Franco Kitila: 100-meter dash and 4x100-meter relay; Merwyn Lazard: 4x100-meter relay; Jay Pendarvis: 100, 200, 400meter dashes; 4x100 and 4x400- meter relay; Jeremiah Bethea: pole vault; Ayman Elhag: 4x400- meter relay; Ahmed Ibrahim: 4x400- meter relay; Kadance Garrish: shot put

Junior Joseph Mccoy running a hurdle event at Lake Braddock.

What sport will be the most successful post regular season?

"Track because a lot "Varsity track because of kids have gone to they got Jay, and Jay is fast." regionals already and probably make it HAKIM IDRIS to nationals." freshman

ABBY KITILA

"Boys soccer because our coaches are trying new things and we are all trying to win."

"Baseball because I know they have good players."

EDDY REYES

sophomore

sophomore

TIYO KEBEDE

"Track and field because this year I feel like they can make it to regionals." `

"Boys Soccer because they have the most potential and the coaches work them NATNAL very hard."

AFOMIA ASSEFA ENDALKACHEW junior

"Soccer because I have faith in my boys."

"Track and field because they have such amazing athletes."

SHADI HAMADEH

RAMATA SESAY

senior

senior

junior

freshman

BY MAHDI LARHMARI

Staff Writer

Staff Writer

The Atoms Baseball team heads into their next game on May 15th. The team has been practicing hard in the past week to ready themselves for their game.

They will be playing W.T. Woodson Cavaliers away, at W.T. Woodson High School (results to this game were not available by the publication date). This will be the Atom's first district game. The Atoms played the Cavaliers twice in the regular season, losing to them both times. The first time with score of 9-6 and the second time with a score of 15-0.

The Atoms look to give Woodson a challenging game. The Cavaliers finished fifth in the conference with the Atoms finishing eigth.

"I think we stand a chance against Woodson because we had a good game when playing them the first time," sophmore Alex Brennan said.

In the past week, the Atoms have had a full week of practice to help prepare.

They have been working on their fielding and trying to work on eliminating their errors. The Atoms have also been working on improving their batting, since in previous games they have struggled with getting on base.

Senior Ryan Peich Winds up a pitch in a game against West "We have been working hard at practice sticking Springfield Spartans. with focusing on the basics and fundamentals," Bredistrict round one game. nan said.

A big focus is to never give up. In previous games Despite their record of 1-19, the Atoms are hopeful and optimistic that they will be able to come together giving up when falling behind has been a big problem and has hurt the team morality. Understandably when and fight for the win against the Cavs.

Some of the struggles the Atoms have had in the behind by numerous runs it is hard to keep positive which allows the moral to drop quickly. Although expast few games are miscommunication and errors.

"I think everyone is ready to play and compete and cited for the game the Atoms have a big focus on keepjust have fun, which helps with communication on and ing their heads in the game and not giving up early in the game or at all. off the field because everyone hyped," Brennan siaid.

If the Atoms overcome the Woodson Cavaliers they The Atoms have struglled to maintain a lead throught many games throught their season. The team go on the the District quarter finals against the West had many deficit early in their games. The Atoms have Potomac Wolverines. The Wolverines are sitting at 3rd had a rough season but remain positive going into this seed with a record of 13-7. The game would be held on Tuesday, the 16th away at West Potomac High School.

COURTESY OF BRIAN ZIMMERMAN

BY KAYLA HOLCOMB

As the regular season games are coming to an end, the varsity girls softball team looks to make a statement in their last game.

The team will be playing their last game against T.C. Williams High School on May 17. The game will be away and the girls will be playing after a diffucult loss to the Mount Vernon Majors by a score of 8-0.

So far, the softball team has been having a disappointing season.

After just winning two games and losing 18 last year, the girls this year are looking for an improved season.

Also the girls softball team is still looking for their first win of the season.

If everyone gives it their all against the Titans, the team might achieve their first win.

After the away game against T.C. Williams, the Atoms will prepare for the Patriot Conference playoffs and the girls hope to go far after an unsuccessful season.

To be successful throughout the playoffs, it is important for the team to give its all it will require a lot of effort. The Patriot Conference playoffs will be pitched off on May 15, 2017. Hopefully, the girls will have enough time to swing for the fences.

With a bumpy season so far, junior, Elizabeth Corcoran had few things to say about how the softball team grew and improved. "This season has hit a few rough patches but, we've definitely improved from tryouts," Corcoran said.

Being a great player means you need to know what you need to improve on and what you have done well throughout the season.

"I think I need to improve on hitting, specially on outside pitches, Corcoran said. "When come cons, there are also pros. In the season, I think I did well on helping my teammates learn the sport better and to give all their effort when when times are tough", Corcoran said.

Freshman Allauna Harrison talks about her softball

COURTESY OF ELIZABETH CORCRA

Baseball competes in playoff game Softball prepares for Titans

Junior Elizabeth Corcoran is getting ready for a play in their game angainst West Potomac.

season and how it went. "The team is a lot better of then when we started, and I look forward to more," Harrison said. Harrison also said, "I improved in the outfield, and my pitching".Allauna is playing Varsity Softball as a freshman right now and is looking for more years.

As the regular season is closing and coming to an end, the Varsity Softball team will be trying to produce more energy as they enter the Patriot Conference playoffs and make every minute and sweat of practice worth the effort.

Meet the new Boys Varsity basketball coach Former Wakefield Highschool coach Deidrich Gilreath to coach Atoms

Q: What are you bringing to the table for Annandale?

A: In my first year at Annandale I'm looking to get the kids to buy into the style of play that I am looking to bring which is a fast-paced and physical style of basketball. We will be the more conditioned team will not be pushed around. Off of the court I'm looking to get into the Annandale community and work on getting them all excited about Annandale basketball!

Q: How many years have you coached basketball?

A: I'm bringing youth, energy, and a lot of experience to Annandale basketball. I want to make Annandale basketball fun to watch and bring a winning mentality to the program. A lot of running, pressing and physicality is something the Annandale community can look forward to from the basketball program.

Q: What type of player are you looking for during tryouts?

A: In tryouts I'm looking for committed, good character kids who all have the number one goal of winning. I'm looking for kids who work hard in the classroom as weell as the basketball court. Last, I'm looking for kids who are confident and coachable. If all 36-45 kids in the program have those qualities, nothing but great things will happen for Annandale Basketball!

Q: What made you want to coach and is there a story behind why you coach?

A: I always had a high basketball IQ as a player and as soon as so as I graduated from highschool I started to think about being a coach. Builiding relationships with kids and teaching them life lessons as well as the game of basketball is why I want to coach and it's what makes coaching fun.

Q: What has been your biggest accomplishment in coaching?

A: My biggest accomplishment in coaching so far is my 75-19 overall record in my 6 years as a head coach and becoming a head varsity coach at the age of 31.

Q: What advice do you have for underclassman who are interested in participating in basketball this year?

A: My advice to any underclassman looking to come out is to make sure you're in good academic standing and be ready to work hard every single. I'm looking for kids who do the right thing in class and play the game of basketball the right way.

Q: Did you participate in basketball in high school or college?

A: I played four years of high school basketball at Wakefield. First team all District for two years as well as all defensive team for two years. Went to Norfolk State University but didn't play college basketball.

Q: What makes you want to continue coaching basketball?

A: Building the basketball program on all three levels, freshmen, JV and varsity, so that we are as respected as other schools.

PHOTO COURTSEYGRACE HATCH

Q: What's your prior basketball experience?

A: I've been around basketball since I played on a ten and under recreation team called Carver Center Cougars in Arlington at the age of 7.

SPORTS 17 Girls lacrosse lose big in first round

May 17, 2017

Staff Writer

With an amazing season for Girls Varsity lacrosse last year, the girls were always going to have pressure to perform well again. Unfortunately for the team, they were not able to live up to the hype.

On Thursday, May 4, the girls were knocked out in the first stage of districts. The Varsity lacrosse team was blown out by West Potomac High School, by a deficit of 19 points. The final score when the game ended was 24-5.

The girls lacrosse team came off a Patriot conference championship from last year and a season filled with stunning games and beautiful play of lacrosse. But sadly, the girls were not able to perform and cooperate as well as they did last year.

With a record of 11-9 last year, the girls were showing promising build up coming into the 2017 spring season.

However, they would not be able to meet the standards of last year.

Junior Caitlyn Schwartz runs with the ball against Mt. Lebanon (PA) on March 25. The Atoms lost 11-5.

Girls tennis finishes strong Atoms getting hot at the "Wherever they lack in right time skill, we will capitalize on."

Ashleen Lee Sophomore

BY KIDUS AYELE Staff Writer The Girls Varsity tennis team has been breaking records that had not been broken in decades with their outstanding performances in matches this year. The team has finished the season with 8 wins and 6 losses, which is the team's best record in the last decade.

Districts began on May 10, and girls singles got past the first round. Girls doubles begins on May 15 and girls singles resumes on May 16 (results of districts were not available by pub date).

With an outstanding list of players stacked up, the sky appears to be the limit for the Atoms. Sophomore Ashleen Lee, who is number one on the tennis team and was the recipient of the first team all districts award for singles, gets ready for districts by practicing on her own and also practicing with the boys on doubles.

Words of encouragement and praise were heaped upon Lee who had finished undefeated which is a record that had not been reached in the last two decades.

Lee is the number one seed in districts and will be looking forward to play singles against T.C. and Woodson.

Woodson have gone undefeated for the whole

season and will need extra effort to defeat them.

"Wherever they lack in skill, we will capitalize on," about Lee, on how they plan on defeating Woodson.

For doubles, Lee and senior Lucie Lefbom are the number two seed in the conference doubles in districts, and they also received the honor of second team all district doubles.

"There will be 5 players from the top 8 graduating this season," said Girls Head Varsity tennis coach Hassan Mims, so replacements will be needed to secure the future of the team. Coach Mims also won an award, as he received the Patriot Conference coach of the year award.

Girls tennis can be proud with the excellent season they've had.

Last year, the Atoms struggled to a 3-12 record, challenging only some of the teams the played. This year, the Atoms were competitive in every meet they were at, finishing with a record of 8-6.

Athlete of the month: Anissa Cheikh Varsity athlete excited for the postseason

BY LUKE ELKINS Sports Editor

Sophomore Anissa Cheikh has played two years of varsity soccer for the Atoms. This year, she is working harder than ever to get wins for the team. Cheikh is excited to finish the season and is optimistic about the team's future for the remainder of this season and next.

Q: How do you celebrate a win?

A: I don't really celebrate wins, I'm just happy if I played well.

BY LUKE ELKINS Sports Editor Boys varsity lacrosse had a disappointing end to a disappointing season, as they fell 17-3 to South County in the first round of districts. They ended the season with a record of 2-10, a slight improvement from last year's 1-11 record.

Many on the team were disappointed with their season, but they still had fun playing lacrosse.

"It's tough when you don't compete in games, but the players got better as the season went on.

Hopefully, being the eighth seed will motivate those who come back next year to climb the ladder," Head varsity coach Bill Maglisceau said.

The players believed their season didn't meet expectations too.

"I think the season went well. At first it was kind of rough, but at the end we were playing as a team.

I thought we were gonna have at least five wins looking at the game schedule in the beginning of the season, but sadly we only won two. But I gave it my all and that's all I could do," senior Michael Nguyen said.

"The season was a little disappointing, but overall it was pretty exciting. We expected to win more games than we originally did but things just didn't go our way," sophomore Sam Phan said.

Senior Brent Escueta noted that their record of 2-10 was an improvement from last year's record of 1-11, but he was not satisfied with the end result of the season.

"Though, I did have a good time playing lacrosse at Annandale for my last time," Escueta said.

"My expectation for the season was to give the guys an extraordinary experience, and the guys on JV and varsity got that. We had a good group of kids

Sophomore Alex Bellem running against Falls Church.

competitive," Maglisceau said.

The players realize they will need to put in work during the offseason as well.

"It's going to take a lot of work [in the offseason].

I think mentally, and physically, many of the underclassmen just aren't there yet. They're gonna need to work out, train, go to camps, and play together as much as they can," Escueta said.

"We can improve by working hard in the offseason and improve our team chemistry on and off the field," Phan said.

Phan and other underclassmen plan to push themselves this offseason. They have this season ingrained in their minds, and will be looking to use this season as motivation for next year.

ss

POSTSEASON AWARDS

Sophomore

COURTESY OF ANISSA CHEIKH

Q: Who is your favorite professional soccer player?

A: My favorite player is Lionel Messi.

Q: What has been your favorite moment in your soccer career?

A: My favorite moment in my soccer career is when I scored to tying goal in pks and advancing to the finals in a tournament with my club soccer team.

Atoms blown out in the first round of districts

Sam Phan

Q: When did you first realize your love for soccer?

A: I always had a passion for soccer, but I realized I really loved it when I broke my foot and couldn't play.

Q: What is your pregame routine?

A: My pre-game routine is to jm out to music, visualize what I'm going to do in the game, and use the bathroom.

Boys lacrosse suffers a disappointing end to season

"We can improve by working hard in the offseason."

Q: When did you start playing soccer?

A: I started playing soccer when I was 3.

Q: What is your favorite position to play?

A: My favorite position to play is outside back because I like making runs from the back and playing defense.

COURTESY OF REBECCA TECLE

BY MAHDI LARHMARI

The Varsity Girls lacrosse team ended with a disappointing record of 4-11, needing stronger individual performances.

Not only did the record show the girls performance, but also how the girls played in each second of the game. The performance by each player on the team was not enough to push them past the first game of districts.

Many players had comments about the game.

"I wanted to beat them so badly and this was our chance, sadly they beat us," junior Mckenzie Yi said.

"Next year, we will be in a new district and I am confident enough in improving as a team and getting to states next year."

Junior Grace Hatch reflected on how the season went. "The season didn't go as planned but I think we learned an incredible amount of knowledge and things to help us in the future," Hatch said.

Grace also thought that she and the team can improve. "I think we had pretty good chemistry, but we can improve on our game strategy and we can try to use each other more often in game," Hatch said.

They will be looking to come back next year and reverse the momentum, and try and restore some of the greatness from the 2016 season.

Working towards a better record will be their goal, and perseverance will be needed to achieve that.

OURTESY OF RICH FINK

Atoms can't meet expectations of past teams

Sophomore Annisa Cheikh strikes the ball for her club team, SCAA.

Q: What's the hardest thing about playing soccer?

A: Playing competitive soccer takes lots of commitment, so trying to balance that with school, and social life is hard.

Q: What do you do in the offseason to prepare for soccer?

A: I don't really have an offseason. I play soccer all year round.

Q: What is your favorite pregame meal?

A: My favorite pre-game meal is chicken and rice.

Q: Is it difficult for you to balance school, sports, and other activities that you have?

A: It's difficult, but staying

organized really helps.

Q: What is your favorite part of your team?

A: My favorite part of my team is getting to travel with my teammates and making long lasting friendships.

Q: How do you think your team can improve?

A: I think our team can improve in many ways. We need to improve our chemistry by team bonding and having the right mentality.

who enjoyed practicing and playing in the games. We also experienced some success, winning two games in a row against Falls Church and Jeb Stuart, which was fun for the guys and we're looking forward to trying to get more wins for next season," Maglisceau said.

Maglisceau hopes his players work hard in the offseason to ensure that they are in prime shape come lacrosse season next year.

"We're hoping to get everyone to a team camp in William and Mary, and getting the guys to do more sports in the offseason so that we will become more

Patriot Conference 1st team: Matthew Vogus, Senior Patriot Conference 2nd team: Alex Bellem, Sophomore Patriot Conference Honorable Mention: Michael Nguyen, Senior; Cameron Foti, Sophomore

Girls soccer fighting in districts Atoms begin the first round of districts

BY LUKE ELKINS Sports Editor Girls varsity soccer finished the regular season with a record of 1-12, and will be facing off against WT Woodson in the first round of districts. After winning their first game, the Atoms dropped their next 12 games in a row.

The Atoms will be squaring off against Woodson on Monday, May 15, and will be looking to catch them by surprise (results of this game were not available by publication date).

"Our season showed a lot of growth for each team and saw players step up as leaders. We were fortunate to have three coaches who

helped our teams improve and to allow players to enjoy playing soccer," varsity coach Dan Thorp said.

He also believes the girls gained valueable info over the season.

"We saw a lot of improvement not only in the player's skills, but in their dedication to the team. Allowing the players to be accountable for their work and to understand how they influence their teammates helped our teams grow," Thorp said.

"We always want to look to improve each week and learn from our experiences on the practice field and in games."

The players also reflected upon their season.

"Our season wasn't the best, we faced a couple of challenges, but we adjusted as best as we could. It was my first year playing varsity, so I didn't know what exactly to expect," sophomore Neyda Villatoro said.

Girls varsity soccer will be looking for revenge against Woodson in districts, after being defeated 8-0 in the

regular season.

"We're expecting a tough challenge and that is expected in districts.

The players have stepped up while preparing for the game by pushing each other and working hard. We are looking to make a statement for our program by playing tough and doing our best," Thorp said.

"Our coach has been working with us to improve our skills and we plan to try our best and give it our all," Villatoro said.

For next year, Coach Thorp believes his team needs to prepare all year round.

"My expectations for next year are to bring in new players to allow the squad to grow in numbers and allow returning players to pick up where our seniors left off. Working hard in the offseason and analyzing our strengths will help determine our expectations for next year," said Thorp.

They will face a tough test against Woodson

18 ENTERTAINMENT

May 17, 2017

Review: Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2 Vol. 2 of director Gunn's trilogy is met with high praise on opening weekend

BY MATEO GALVES Special to the A-Blast James Gunn is back to direct the second installment of this new trilogy in the Marvel Cinematic Universe.

Guardians of The Galaxy Volume 2 is the film audiences are excited to see, its opening box office numbers proves that this movie has a large following.

The first Guardians of The Galaxy is very similar yet a different approach to telling a Star Wars story. This formula of storytelling is repeated in Volume 2, this time being very reminiscent of The Empire Strikes Back in it that our heroes face their inner struggles and go on voyages of their own trying to cope with the past.

While the first movie caught everyone's attention by having a distant universe with likable characters and variety of scenery, the second installment takes its time in dedicating character development making a very emotional journey along the way.

Guardians of The Galaxy Volume 2 is much more slow in terms of pacing. The movie really wants the audience to care for the group of misfits in their ongoing journeys of having a good time.

The first movie shows the group surviving the impossible in order to prevent the planet Xandar from dying.

The sequel has to handle its conflict properly because the first movie established that they have prevented something that was once thought inevitable by touching the gem that destroys worlds.

Just like Star Trek Into Darkness, when death can be prevented there is no point establishing a conflict if the audience knows that the character will be alright.

This is why it worried me when I heard that there will be a young Han Solo movie because it tries to establish

Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2 made $145 million opening weekend in the U.S. and nearly $430 million worldwide.

something that was already there to begin with.

Without any tension a movie is left with no conflict that we could hope our characters can overcome, the Matrix trilogy is a good example of this problem because after the first movie agent Smith was no more than a minor menace never being able to break Neo like in the first movie.

James Gunn must have noticed this as well. While the Guardians did save a planet from being destroyed, they were not broken internally, they shrugged it off and dealt with their issues as being outcasts externally in the first movie.

This movie allows us to go further into the Guardians inner conflicts and especially Peters issue with an absent father in his Earthly childhood.

The only exception to this is Drax and Groot, they have nothing new to offer and they simply just become

side characters and are used as comedic relief.

Toddler Groot is at times fun but his presence had hardly any impact in the story besides the moment like when he was in jail.

The plot is similar to the first movie in it that the Guardians are in a situation and that a certain group wants them dead, and the same steps are being taken but in a different order.

The first movie featured a prison escape, large convoy of ships, and a crazy idea to blow up or exterminate life.

The interesting side of this movie, however, is not really the action, but really the characters and their struggles, the past that always haunted them throughout most of their lives.

This movie compares itself with Empire Strikes Back with plot points such as the group splitting up,

everything going bad, exploring one's true purpose in the galaxy, and conflicting decisions to either abandon something they once hold or to hold on to something that filled the void of absence.

The gold people do nothing significant other than to constantly follow and pretty much bully the Guardians throughout the movies runtime.

The only moment where the gold people at least were given something interesting that we should care about is in the end credits. Kurt Russell plays as Peter Quill's father, he was looking for his son for so many years and now Peter has to know why his father was absent on Earth.

A new character is in the group and Mantis, played

by Pom Klementieff, is the one who tells us what we should feel in moments where she can read others emotions. Mantis was the companion of Ego simply by serving him just like the servant of the collector in the first movie.

Yondu is back and in the first movie he is simply a minor character but his role becomes much more important in this movie by practically being a father figure to Peter Quill.

Yondu is impressive with his use of arrow whistling but there was no tension felt when he happens to kill dozens of people left and right. His power just makes him look cool rather than having any challenges with it.

A prime example is the prison escape sequence.

Yondu happens to go through everyone with just a simple whistle and it just does not feel the same as the amazingly fun prison escape in the first movie.

Guardians of The Galaxy Volume 2 delivers in being a sequel by focusing characters inner conflicts and helping build and strengthen this connection with the audience.

There is similar retreads and some sequences are deemed unnecessary, but the explosive fun and the diverse characters give us a unique world we want more out of. James Gunn will go to direct Guardians of The Galaxy 3, so hopefully we can have a new mix tape once the movie is released.

Meet Aspiring Musician Nicky Sheppard Q: What instrument(s) do you play and how long have you been playing?

A: I play the drum-set, and I've played for a total of 13 years.

Q: What is your favorite part of being a musician?

A: My favorite part of being a musician is being able to go in front of a large crowd and within just an hour of performing, change the entire room's mood, leaving everyone in a relaxed and happy mood. I enjoy being able to put a smile on someone's face through music.

Q: How has your experience in school electives such as band helped you in your personal life with music?

A: With band at Annandale, I've been exposed to so many different styles of music, and different ensembles, and because of these opportunities experiences that I've had in my three years at this school, I've been able to meet some of the most talented musicians that I've now played over one hundred shows with all over the area, as well as tours to countries such as Mexico and Guatemala.

I can now proudly call these same musicians my best friends.

Q: What are your plans for the future regarding music?

A: After high school, I plan to apply for music schools across the country to pursue a Musical Performance degree in Percussion. After school, I hope to be able to continue on with my dream and work as a performer.

Q: Considering any stage appearances you've made outside of school, which one was the most memorable?

A: Around April of last year, I played a gig in Leesburg with a jazz combo of mine at an outdoor lounge. We had a crowd of around 100 people that night, which at the time was the biggest crowd we had ever performed for since we came together

last January. We all were a little nervous, and frightened, but excited to see what we could pull off as this was our first time being out and exposed to this great of an extent. Within 10 minutes of starting our set, nervous and sweaty, we began grooving and meshing together almost perfectly, not only as a group, or as musicians, but as great friends through music. That's the night where I realized how powerful music could be in bringing people together.

Q: What advice would you give to beginners who would like to play music professionally?

A: If it is your dream, then follow it. Don't let anyone hold you back from what you love. This doesn't just apply to music, but any art or passion you may have. I've heard for years from many people, even good friends and family, that deciding to major in and pursue music would be a waste of time, a waste of money, and a dream that couldn't be achieved. These people have tried to break myself and my dream down, discouraging me from pursuing something that I love. But the truth is, you really only do live life once, and what's the fun in spending it doing something you don't enjoy? If you really love your passion enough, you may face struggle, but you'll find a way to make a living off of it, and in the end, you'll have lived the greatest life. Do not let anyone discourage you, ever. It's all about you.

junior Nicky Sheppard, center, plays drums for his group the Sway Jazz Cats.

Q: What is the hardest part of being a musician while also being a full time student?

A: It's very difficult managing school, work, and all of the ensembles I perform in. I have many days where I'm out and about doing things from seven AM until twelve AM the next morning, and many other days I'm not able to get more than two to three hours of sleep. After having done all of this for so long, I've been able to put myself into a daily routine and managing this tight schedule has become natural and much easier.

Sheppard in rehearsal prior to his tour in Guatemala, Jan. 2017.

Read the book before watching the movie Review: YA novel Everything Everything, by Nicola Yoon

BY ASEAL SAED Co-Editor in Chief "Just because you can't experience everything doesn't mean you shouldn't experience anything." That is one of the main messages from the highly appraised young-adult novel Everything Everything by Nicola Yoon.

Eighteen-year old Madeline Whittier understands what it feels to be trapped and inexperienced in the world around her because of her Severe Combined Immunodeficiency (SCID). The disease makes her immune system so fragile that Madeline's mother had to confine Madeline to their house for the past 17 years of her life to reduce the risk of a severe reaction from the contaminated outside world.

Despite a relatively monotonous life, new changes come when a new family moves next door with their teenage son, Olly, who Madeline begins to watch through her bedroom window. She is fascinated with his imperfect and secretive family-life.

Soon after he moves in, Olly and Madeline begin Instant Messaging all night, and expectedly begin their romance. As Madeline falls for Olly, she becomes more encouraged to leave her bubble and find escape outside, which she eventually does.

In terms of writing, the book was very plain and simple, which is why it seems more suitable for a 12-13 year old (tween) audience rather than the young adults it is aimed for. Despite its faults, if I had to describe the novel in one word it would be: adorable.

Everything Everything, directed by Stella Meghie, will be released on May 19.

Usually I am not a big fan of typical teenage Young Adult novels, but I enjoyed the graphics of the messaging screens between Olly and Madeline because it revealed the awkwardness of a budding teenage relationship.

Furthermore, Yoon did a great job of creating complex characters who were not bound to a certain identity or typical character that we usually see in YA novels.

Madeline is extremely immature, probably stemming from her isolation from the world, she remains grounded and unsure of herself, but she still finds security in her books.

Even Olly, the love interest, portrayed as the typical brooding teenage boy, can behave just as nerdily as Madeline. We learn that even Madeline's protective

mother's fears can be too much and (in the end we learn) potentially dangerous.

The novel's plot was well-thought out and developed fluidly, however, the ending was too predictable.

Despite the ending's shortcomings, the storylines throughout the novel were captivating and kept me from putting the book down.

The messages from the novel should be read by all: life should be experienced to the fullest, life is a gift and we mustn't forget to live it, there are necessary limits as to what you can experience in life, and several others.

Although the plot was interesting to follow, it was slightly mediocre and the language could have been more well-developed to take the interesting plot and make it fit the audience it was intended for.

There are also clear parallels between this book and other popular YA novels including John Green's The Fault in our Stars and Jojo Moyes' Me Before You which is the resiliency of love through terminal illness.

The difference between those novels and Everything Everything is the ability to use more expressive and meaningful language to capture the essence of the fears when faced with the illness while tempted with the opportunity to love.

The only reason I read the book was to gain an understanding of the original story before I watch the movie. The new movie being adapted from the novel, Everything Everything, will be released on May 19 and star young actors Amandla Stenberg as Madeline, and Nick Robinson as Olly. I'm looking forward to see how the director adapts the story into a film while keeping the integrity of Yoon's message prominent.

Watch the movie trailer for Everything Everything at this link!

ENTERTAINMENT 19 Summer '17 is coming in hot

May 17, 2017

Look out for these projects coming soon Album: Teenage Emotion

Movie: Dunkirk Christopher Nolan makes his daring return to cinemas with his adaptation of the classic 1958 World War 2 film, Dunkirk, starring Cillian Murphy, Tom Hardy, and Harry Styles, among others. The film centers around the Dunkirk evacuation in 1940, in which British soldiers were given a time frame by Nazi forces to evacuate the island before bombing runs ensued. Nolan has stated that the adaptation is not a war film, and dwells the line of a suspense or survival film more appropriately. The film will release on the 21st of July, 2017.

Furthermore, everybody's favorite soft-spoken "flora collossi," Groot, makes an appearance on Rocket the Raccoon's shoulder as a much smaller version of himself, regenerating as a result of the events in the first movie.

Grammy-nominated artist Lil Yachty announced his debut studio album, Teenage Emotion. In an interview with Genius, Lil Yachty said, "It caters to a teenager's everyday lifestyle, heartbreak, happiness, that vibe when you waking up in the morning getting dressed and you just wanna dance."

The Atlanta rapper tweeted out the album art with the tracklist March. Yachty already has released two singles for the upcoming project on April 14. The first, "Peek a Boo" featuring Migos, and the other titled "Harely." The album cover has received considerable praise from critics and fans alike for its daring approach to encapsulate modern culture and teenagers of all creeds.

Movie: Wonder Woman

Album: Melodrama

DC's third entry in their cinematic universe following Man of Steel and Batman versus Superman explores the origins of Wonder Woman (Gal Gadot), delving into the first World War and her experience making first contact with humanity as well as developing affection for a human male and American soldier. Steve Trevor (Chris Pine).

The film boasts an impressive addition of veteran actress and Netflix's House of Cards star, Robin Wright.

The film will continue the cinematic universe and tie the story of Wonder Woman into the overall DC narrative.

Wonder Woman premiers June 2.

Famous for her hit single "Royals," New Zealand singer-songwriter and record producer Lorde announced her second studio album, Melodrama. The first single to the album, "Green Light," was released on March 2 and announced the title to the album.

Lorde performed "Green Light" along side with a new single from the album, "Liability" on an episode of Saturday Night Live.

Her last album, Pure Heroine, was released back in 2013. It included hits like "Tennis Court," "Royals," and "Buzzcut Season." This album went on to be the number one album in several countries.

Pure Heroine went triple platinum, selling 1,660,000 copies in the U.S. The tape is expected to release on June 16.

Album: Funk Wav Bounces

Movie: Despicable Me 3 In the third film of the series, Gru meets his long-lost twin brother, Dru. The comedy will feature the voices of of Steve Carell in a dual role, Kristen Wiig, and Trey Parker.

Throughout the film, Gru has a grudging sibling rivalry with his twin brother, who has the opposite personality.

Dru wants to team up with Gru for one last criminal heist to steal the diamond that Bratt stole. Trey Parker, co-creator of South Park, was casted for the film as Balthazar Bratt.

It will be released in the United States theaters on June 30.

Scottish DJ/songwriter Adam Richard Wiles, otherwise known as Calvin Harris, has announced his new studio album via twitter.

Harris has released several singles for this album and its expected to be the hit of the summer. On Feb. 21, Harris released "Slide" featuring Frank Ocean and Migos.

The following month, he dropped a collaboration with Young Thug, Ariana Grande, and Pharrell Williams titled "Heatstroke." On May 11, "Rollin" featuring Future and 19 year old singer, Khalid. The album will release on June 30 and will feature the biggest names in the music industry including; Snoop Dogg, Travis Scott, John Legend, Katy Perry, PARTYNEXTDOOR and many more.

Future: Nobody Safe concert review

Four years ago today...

BY JULIUS MILLER Entertainment Editor In the midst of the numerous stresses provided by high school, I took time to escape those stresses through attending the Nobody Safe Tour at Jiffy Lube Live on May 11. This tour featured three artists and one group, those being A$AP Ferg, Tory Lanez, Migos, and Future. Migos and Future took the year 2017 by storm, both releasing number one albums and topping the charts following their respective release dates.

Tory Lanez released his fourth mixtape titled Chixtape 4 which took classic hip hop songs and remixed them. A$AP Ferg's last release was Always Strive and Prosper, a rather disappointing project that dropped in early 2016. All of these artists came together to form what was expected to be possibly the greatest performance to be featured at Jiffy Lube Live.

Upon arrival, our initial thoughts were that the concert would instead be a mud bath due to the rains that hit the area earlier.

After checking in and going ahead to the lawn area, we were greeted by a surprising green field of grass. This was, of course, a better alternative to the expected giant mud puddle.

On the way up we also checked out the available merchandise but found disappointment in the rather plain and boring designs the artists provided. Soon enough, we were greeted by our first performer, Tory Lanez. He had undeniably the worst set of them all, performing very few songs. His best song was his hit single Say It, which blew up in early 2016. The rest of the set was highlighted by knock off reggae and knock off Drake.

Next we were treated with a 15 minute

#1 movie

The Wolf of Wall Stree t

#1 song "Thrift Shop"

&

by Macklemore Lewis

break between sets, which helped us ease from the pain Tory Lanez had caused us earlier.

While standing in the light drizzle that was coming down, the sun began to fall and the crowd began to scream as the stage blasted an electrifying "Migo!" It was finally time for fans to get what they came for.

Migos started their performance with "Get Right Witcha," a song after their latest album Culture.

The crowd started jumping up and down, hands in the air, as Quavo, Takeoff and Offset lit up the stage. Throughout their whole set not one fan had a bored look on their faces. Migos were by far some of the best performers I had ever seen. Their visuals were amazing, backgrounding their song "What The Price" with clips of Al Capone and the stock Market.

This quality was also shown through their visuals for "Fight Night," which featured Mike Tyson boxing.

After Migos, we had another 15 minute break. The anticipation grew for the one and only Future Hendrix to make his appearance.

He bursted out, speakers blasting, to a crowd screaming. His highlight songs were "Thought It Was A Drought" and "Mask Off." He of course closed with "Mask Off," due to the fact that it is the number one song in the country at the moment.

Overall, the concert was amazing. In comparison to that of Drake, Migos and Future blew him away. This is simply because they are better performers.

Concert rating: 10/10

#1 album

Midnight Memories

by One Direction

#1 book The Fault in Our Stars

by John Green

Ryan

20 WEEKEND

May 17, 2017

Outdoor Adventures in the DMV Take hike at Great Falls

Take a shot at Top Golf

Explore one of the nation's first canals, see the Great Falls of the Potomac, or enjoy a hike along dramatic clifftops. You can do all of these things and more at Great Falls Park. Park hours are 7 a.m. until dark, every day. The three falls that are located within a five to ten minute walk from the visitor center and parking lots. Trail maps are available at the visitor center and entrance station. To park it will cost $10, but if you are walking in it is only $5. The park is known for it's fast moving rapids and steep cliff drops into the water. Great Falls is a great place to take photos and exercise.

9200 Old Dominion Drive McLean, VA 22102

Top Golf is a fun, casual place to hang out with friends and golf. You can either mini golf or golf from a driving range. While you golf, you can order fresh and unique food and drinks. A playing card cost $40; if you want to just hang out with friends, a guest pass will cost $5. Each game consists of 20 golf balls.

Top Golf supplies free rental clubs or players can bring their own clubs. At the driving range, it will tell you how far and where you hit the golf ball and you can earn points depending on how far you hit it.

Top Golf is opened from 8:00am or 9:00am to 11:00pm or 12:00pm depending on the day.

6625 S. VAN DORN ST. ALEXANDRIA, VA 22315

Explore the National Zoo

Enjoy nature at Lake Accotink

Washington's National Zoo is one of the oldest zoos in the United States and is a fun place to go with your family or friends on the weekend. The most popular exhibits at the zoo include, the giant panda, elephant, tiger, lemur, and great ape exhibits. The zoo is most recognised for The Great Ape House and Giant Panda Habitat. A great part about the National Zoo is it's cost, free! Parking at the zoo tends to be a struggle. You may have to pay up to $30 to park in the zoo or walk a few blocks and get free parking. The National Zoo is open everyday of the year except on Dec. 25. The ground of the zoo are open from 8:00am to 7:00pm everyday. The exhibit buildings open from 9:00am to 6:00pm.

3001 Connecticut Ave. NW Washington, DC 20008

Lake Accotink is a fun place to spend the day with your friends or family. There is kayak, bike and paddle boat rentals, a carousel, mini golf, picnic areas, a playground and a beach. Parking should not be a problem at Lake Accotink, they have an adequate parking lot. Bike rentals are $10 an hour, Accotink's tour boat ride is $4 a person and runs every hour, but is often reserved. You may bring your own boat or kayak and pay a small launch fee of $5.

The Lake is also a fun place to walk or ride your own bike on the trails. Fishing is allowed at the park and is free.

Overall, Lake Accotink is a nice place to be outdoors if you have some money to spend on it.

Accotink Park Road Springfield, VA 22150

Middle Eastern Restaurant Reviews Food Corner Kabob delights

Dunya Banquet serves culture

BY HALLEY THADEUS

BY KAVI SHAMDIN

Weekend Editor Food Corner Kabob is an Afghan restaurant owned by Najib Sidiqi and Abdulfatah Abbasi. The first restaurant of this branch was established in Annandale, VA. Other close locations are Springfield and Tysons Corner. This restaurant is not only popular to local Afghans, but to all types of people of all ages who enjoy a great flavored and very well portioned meal at great price.

I started to go to Food Corner Kabob when my dad introduced it to me in 2nd grade. Whenever we go, my dad orders chicken kabobs with brown rice and lamb on top with a side salad.

Naan bread is an essential part of the meal it brings the flavors together. It is topped with cilantro yogurt sauce, it is slightly spicy. Baklava is a sugary delightful dessert, it has layers of phyllo dough and nuts.

I have been to Dunya Banquet and the kabobs are very similar, the meat and spices have more of a sweet flavor.

I prefer Food Corner Kabob because there is more variety with sides that are more pleasing to me.

Food Corner Kabob is a walk in restaurant, you can Food Item: Spicy Chicken Kabob paired order your food and carry out or sit and eat the meal there. with sweet salad and rice In the restaurant there's money of the walls from different Price: $12.25 7031-A Little River Turnpike, countries in the middle east which brings customers an Annandale, VA ethnic feel.

Moby Dick House of Kabob

Academics Editor Dunya Banquet is an Afghan restaurant established in 1989 by the Abassi family. It offers traditional authentic Afghan food. Dunya Banquet is a family run business operation. The Abassi family began the business overseas before they came to America.

The restaurant offers reservations to host big events, including catering. There is a wide variety of options like the veggie platter, soup, and salads, different kinds of kabobs, and vegetarian delights.

You are also able to experience different types of spices and flavors that are not common in most American foods.

Group specials are offered in forms of packages, to make it more affordable. The group offer specials are available for two, four and eight people.

It is open seven days a week from 11 a.m. to 10:30 p.m.

For dinner they had a buffet styled dining which consisted of lots of different dishes. I had Mantu which is a homemade pastry shells filled with onions and beef, served on yogurt and topped with carrots, yellow split peas and beef sauce. I also had an Afghan Gyro served open-faced on pita bread or on Afghan bread with lettuce, tomatoes, onions, and tzatziki Food Item: Savory Beef Kabob topped sauce. I would definitely recommend going here if you want with pepper, lemon, and onions Price: $7.99 authentic Afghan food.

5951 Stevenson Avenue Alexandria, VA 22304

Raouche Cafe lounge

BY SABRINA HAWA

BY CAMERON FOTI

Copy Editor

Weekend Editor Moby Dick is a Middle Eastern restaurant that serves authentic persian food with a Mediterranean Flair.

They will serve you food with character, that you will love and crave. Their staff serves slow-braised stews and flame-grilled meats, with house-made signature seasonings and marinades. Their authentic whole pita bread is made in a traditional clay oven. The quality of food and customer service at Moby Dick House of Kabob is unmatched.

Moby Dick's beef kabobs are a crowd favorite that will melt in your mouth. Another popular is dish is the Moby Dick's combo I, which comes with beef, chicken, and your choice of rice.

The restaurant first opened it's doors in 1989 and has continued to please hungry customers with their traditional foods. All of their entrees are served with their creamy yogurt cucumber sauce and their fresh baked pita bread. Moby Dick is a sit-in restaurant, but you also Food Item: Moby Dick's Combo I comes with have the option to carry-out. This restaurant is a chain beef, chicken and rice Price: $14.95 and has locations all over Virginia. The kabob house's three closest location are in Arlington, Fairfax Towne 7116 Old Keene Mill Rd, Center, and Springfield mall.

Springfield, VA 22150

Raouche Cafe is a family owned Lebanese restaurant located on 2839 Gallows Rd, Falls Church, VA 22042, just opposite to the Mosaic shopping center.

For my Mom's birthday last week, we came and ate here before heading out for the day.

We sat ourselves down and looked at the large array of options on the menu. Being accustomed to Mediterranean food, I had a pretty clear idea of what to order. For those who are not too familiar, most of the food items had pictures on the menu to help.

I ordered the kufta kabob platter, which is a mix of beef and lamb on a bed of rice. I also got a salad on the side.

The plate I received was two long skewers of the kabob on plateful of rice, with a side of grilled onions and tomatoes.

Overall, the food was delicious and compensated for the rather lackluster appearance of the store in general.

The cooking reminded me of something I would eat at my uncle or aunts house during family events.

Food Item: The Sampler comes with top five My mom ordered the lamb kabob platter and was poplar dishes equally as satisfied with her meal.

Price: $17.50 2839 Gallows Rd Falls Church, VA 22042

Class of 2017 Bulletin To-do list: May Edition Start finding a roomate for college Prom is 23 days away!

Senior Matthew Vogus is attacking to help the Atoms to score in his final high school season.

Senior Award Ceremony on June 13 @ 9:30 a.m. in the auditorium

29 days until graduation 10 Red Days 10 White Days