The Patriot, April 2002, Issue 5, Vol 37

The PATRIOT John Carroll School

Volume 37, Number 5

April 10, 2002

by Andrew Lazor Editor-in-Chief There’s nothing more special than the first time. The faces of each player on JC’s rugby team bore looks of enthusiasm and readiness as they charged onto the field for their historical inaugural match, held Friday, March 1. A large crowd of boisterous students, parents, and onlookers filled the sidelines of the upper field, infecting the chilly winter air with a sense of anticipation and excitement.

The match marked the culmination of many weeks of intense practice for the Patriots, who looked as ready as ever for the impending battle with a less-experienced but physically bigger Calvert Hall squad.

The match began rather slowly, with both teams struggling to gain suitable yardage and maintain possession of the ball. The Pats seemed in control early in the 1st period. Junior Brent Toland carried

the offense with several solid gains.

Scrums were formed almost constantly early in the game, most likely due to the fact that the teams sized up evenly on the defensive side of the ball. Despite several vicious tackles by senior back Dylan Donahue, the Cardinals managed to score their first try, worth five points by high school rules, ten minutes into the first half. They connected with the point after chance making the score 7-0.

The Patriots, however, were unfazed, sounding ferocious battle cries upon the following kickoff. It took senior scrum half Rob Ford less than five minutes to lead a solid

photo by Rose Walker

Rugby squad creates sports history

charge deep into CHC territory, capitalizing on the speed of teammates such as Donahue, junior fly half TJ French, and sophomore back Trevor McEvoy, all of whom displayed amazing levels of athleticism throughout the game.

Donahue scrapped his way ten yards

despite a large setback caused by tenacious defense from the Cardinals. The Pats, however, were unable to capitalize on their ideal field position and entered halftime trailing by a try.

Continued on pg.16

Audiences crazed for Crazy for You

by Jacki Kosdemba Features Co-Editor

The sounds of tappin’feet, sidesplitting comedy, and classic Gershwin melodies sounded throughout the JC campus the week of February 27 through March 3, 2002. The New Gershwin musical “Crazy For You,” derived from the 1930’s hit, “Girl Crazy” was a feast of song and dance, delighting a weeks worth of sold-out houses.

Taking Broadway by storm at its

1992 New York premiere, and winning nearly every Best Musical award, the JC production brought patrons to their feet nightly, proving it to be one of the school’s best musicals.

Set in the 1930’s, against the backdrops of ritzy New York City and the dull streets of Deadrock, Nevada, city banker Bobby Child (Kevin Korczynski) tries to win the affection of all-American girl Polly Baker (Sara Ruzicka.) and realize his dream of becoming a Broadway star.

Add a feuding fiancée

The P ATRIO T Inde x PA TRIOT Index

(Aimee Karas), a slimy saloon owner (Morgan Lowman), a wacky show producer (Andrew Lazor), two eccentric British tourists (Lauren Faber and Daniel Miller), and a core of dancing beauties (led by Melissa Hmelnicky and Meghan Blume) and the stage is set for romance, disputes, humor, and plenty of song and dance.

The gifted company of performers, musicians, technicians, and directors made sure the audience was enthralled for nearly three hours.

Edit or ials ditor orials Mumia Abu-Jamal case addressed by students....pg. 2

Ne ws New Juniors celebrate Ring Day ceremony.....................pg.5 Mr. Heubeck implements new policies for detention........................pg.7

Features

Continued on pg.14

Students’ campus lingo explained in everyday language......................pg.10 Unique collection compliments unique math teacher.........................pg.11

Entertainment Our latest stop: historic Annapolis...........................pg.13

Sports Orioles hope to fly above season expectations......pg.15

photo by Rose Walker

SE CTIONS SECTIONS

March’s musical Crazy For You ends extravagantly, as Bobby (played by senior Kevin Korczynski) sweeps Polly (junior Sara Ruzicka) off her feet, and the Follies Girls wave their hands in jubilation.

Editorials.......................pg. 2-3 News.............................pg. 4-7 Features........................pg. 8-11 Entertainment.............pg. 12-14 Sports.........................pg. 15-16 The P ATRIO T PA TRIOT is available on the JC website at http://techcord.loyola.edu

Editorials

2

The PATRIOT Classifieds 1997 Saturn SL2. Dark green. Manual transmission, keyless entry, great condition.

Contact Mel Hundley at 410-426-9245 or see her in homeroom 312.

The car is parked on the oval.

New silk wedding gown Size 6 Half Price 410- 879- 0646 Movie Posters for sale. A wide assortment of movies. $5 per poster. Call Junior Joel Wienholt.

410-420-0309

1994 BMW 325I - sport package - loaded - 164,000 miles - service records - black/tan - $7500

(410) 560-2141

FOR SALE: 1999 White VW Jetta VR6. 47K. Great Shape, Like New. Asking 17K, Negotiable.

Serious Inquires Only.

410-494-1102 Fender Stratocaster. Very good condition. Lefthanded. $150 with bag, cables, whammy bar, and Peavey practice amp, or best offer.

(410) 879-5566

Taking A Stand ”The hottest places in hell are reserved for those who in time of great moral crisis maintain their neutrality.”

- Dante

Mumia Abu-Jamal worked as a journalist and author in Philadelphia, PA. He was a member of the Black Panther Party and won an award for radio journalism. He focused his energies on the rights of minorities in the city and the issue of police brutality.

There has been a large, highly publicized movement to free Abu-Jamal since he was convicted of first degree murder and put on Death Row in 1982. His innocence has been an issue of major dispute since his incarceration.

On December 9, 1981, Daniel Faulkner, a Philadelphia policeman, saw a Volkswagen driving down a one way street the wrong way. He pulled the car over and called for backup before leaving his car. A Mr. William Cook was driving the car. When approached, Mr. Cook punched Officer Faulkner. Faulkner retaliated by hitting him with a flashlight.

Sitting in a taxicab across the street was Mumia Abu-Jamal, Mr. Cook’s brother.

At the time, Abu-Jamal was working a job as a latenight taxicab driver. According to disputed reports, he allegedly exited the taxicab, brandished a gun, and ended the scuffle between Faulkner and Cook by shooting Faulkner in the back while he was distracted.

Faulkner was able to return fire and struck Abu Jamal in his upper abdomen. After this exchange, some believe that Daniel Faulkner was lying on his back looking up when Mumia fired the final shot into his head. The case is still a heated topic of debate due to discrepancies in the evidence and testimonies in Abu-Jamal’s case. For more information on the case, visit www.davidfaulkner.com or www.freemumia.org.

Conservative

Liberal

Daniel Faulkner was a man who did his duty and did it well.

Unfortunately this honorable man was attacked and killed by a racial extremist. This person was Mumia Abu Jamal. He shot Daniel Faulkner in the face from inches away and was found guilty in the courtroom but the sentence does not do justice for what he did. This man should be treated with extreme prejudice and killed for this awful murder.

These extreme groups need to be dealt with and put out of existence so no more of these crimes occur.

Mumia Abu Jamal was a respected journalist who had the courage to expose the Philadelphia police force’s brutality and bigotry.

He was beaten, shot, and framed by the police in an attempt to silence him. His “trial” was a farce: crucial evidence was “lost” or disallowed, and witnesses were threatened and coerced. I urge you to do your own research into the injustices he faces and read some of his work before you take the police state’s word.

~Matt Garono

The P ATRIO T PA TRIOT John Carroll School 703 Churchville Road, Bel Air, MD 21014 Volume 37, Number 5, April 10, 2002 Editor-in-Chief....................................................Andrew Lazor Managing Editor..................... .........................Colleen O’Brien Opinions Editor.....................................................Tara Hofherr News Co-Editor................................................Louis Perseghin News Co-Editor....................................................Joel Wienholt Features Co-Editor...........................................Jacki Kosdemba Features Co-Editor.............................................Ryan McCavitt Entertainment Co-Editor.......................................Sara Clafferty Entertainment Co-Editor........................................Sara Ruzicka Sports Co-Editor...................................................Owen Jordan Sports Co-Editor..........................................Mary Kate Sullivan Web Editor...........................................................Katie Chlada Graphic Designer.................................................Ryan Hofherr Photography Co-Editor..........................................Miyako Igari Photography Co-Editor..................................Rose Ellen Walker Business Manager...........................................Chiara Fortunato Moderator..............................................................Mr. Ionescu Staff: Valerie Beach, Adam Bell, Katie Chlada, Mike Critzer, Jenny DeGree, Lauren Dunn, Gene Etting, Rosalie Gant, Matt Garono, Jon Gentri, Mairead Gordon, Amy Graul, Ryan Hofherr, Chris Hoover, Kevin Korczynski, Ryan Kramer, Laurie Krysiak, Emily Lyles, Sam Marell, Grace Matelli, Chris O’Reilly, Craig Parsons, Michele Renaud, Stephanie Rew, Amanda Rok, Julie Ross, Tom Scilipoti, Jennifer Smith, Bobby Spero, Maygan Switalski, John Vigliotti, Megan Whiteleather, Valerie Zimmerer

The Patriot is a publication of the students of John Carroll School.

The views and opinions expressed in The Patriot are not necessarily the views and opinion of the Board or Administration of John Carroll School. The editorial staff invites and greatly appreciates comments from readers on any issue.

The PATRIOT

Mumia Abu-Jamal. This name first entered John Carroll in my freshman year. People had put up “Free Mumia” posters on their lockers. These posters were soon removed because they were deemed inappropriate for school.

Abu-Jamal has been on death row for twenty years. Why? Even though he was convicted in the most airtight murder case in legal history, the system has allowed him appeal after appeal. He was convicted of the murder of Philadelphia Police Officer Daniel Faulkner. Faulkner left behind two children and a wife.

Those who support Mumia claim that his constitutional rights are being violated. Well, I guess they are right. He has been on Death Row for twenty years, and his right to a speedy trial has been violated. He should have been executed twenty years ago.

Many John Carroll students will react negatively to this editorial. I don’t know why they hate the police so much. Maybe it goes along with all of the drugs, but I’m no expert. As George Orwell said, “They sleep well at night because they know that there are men prepared to do violence for their sake.”

Volume 37, Number 4

~Gene Etting

~Rosalie Gant “If Mumia AbuJamal has nothing important to say, why are so many powerful people trying to kill him and shut him up?”- John Edgar Wideman

The fact that Mumia AbuJamal is incarcerated on Death Row to this day is one of the greatest travesties in American history. The case used to place Mumia behind bars was built upon lies and racial biases which the Philadelphia Police Department pressured witnesses into falsely testifying against Mumia.

One star witness, Cynthia White, a former prostitute/ drug addict, confessed to falsely identifying Mumia as the shooter of Officer Faulkner. Court reporter Terri Mawer- Carter swears she overheard Judge Sabo stating, “Yeah, and I’m going to help ‘em fry the nigger.”

To further the injustices enacted upon Mumia, Arnold Beverly, a former hit man, confessed to shooting Officer Faulkner but his testimony will not be heard. Until the evidence for Mumia’s innocence is heard, he will remain in a cell controlled by a system that is blind to the truth. ~Dylan Martin

April 10, 2002

Editorials

3

JC community responds to drug patrol Once to three times a year, the John Carroll administration arranges searches performed by the Bel Air Police Department’s K-9 drug detection division. Officers work with dogs specially trained to detect the scent of illegal narcotics. They are taught to smell substances such as marijuana, and sit down if the scent is detected, a practice referred to as a “hit on.” If a “hit on” occurs during a search, the students’ locker or vehicle is searched and parents are contacted, regardless of whether or not anything incriminating is found.

On Thursday, March 26, 2002, several officers visited the school.

Two dogs swept the areas of the school building and the student parking lot. Dean of Students Mr. Piercy is aware of a rumor that certain students were targeted by the administration, but he adamantly states, “that is false.” Both the student body and the teaching staff have a variety of opinions regarding this controversial issue.

“It’s a good thing. It is good and necessary.” ~Mr. Huber, religion teacher “If they don’t have enough evidence or reason they shouldn’t just go checking. They need to have enough information.” ~Greg Hatem, Freshmen “I think it’s a good idea for the police to come and check.” ~Ryan Heller, Sophomore “I don’t think it will solve the drug problem in our school because not everyone is dumb enough to bring them into school and leave them in their cars.” ~Brian Turek, Junior “I don’t think they should bring in the dogs. It should be faculty searching the cars so if someone gets caught, they can try and help them out and not ruin their life.” ~Kate Saul, senior Opinions Box by Tara Hofherr and Andrew Lazor

Community service discrepancies baffle, discourage students

Opinions Editor Of all the requirements that JC has, the one that most annoys students, and I am among them, is community service. Back when I was a freshman, service hours were accessible and relatively simple to understand and follow.

Now, I am a junior, and service has not been more complex in the history of the school. Forty hours of any kind of service was the previous requirement: freshman retreat here, cutting out paper hands there, assisting with some girl scouts on Friday, and ushering on Sunday.

It used to be so simple, and people actually felt good about helping the community and proud to hand in a service card, napkin, plate, or hot pink torn sheet of paper bearing their name and number of hours completed. But no longer, my friends, that is no longer the prevalent feeling. That feeling of pride and accomplishment has been replaced with confusion, resentment, and occasionally anger. Apparently there are specific designated activities that qualify as credible for service hours. In fact, it is now in print that “The Outreach Office must approve service hours,” and approval is not so easily received.

If by chance you receive approval, and complete your service, then the next question is “How do I receive credit?” The answer is simple— or maybe not so simple. Only the JC service cards can be handed in with ALL the information properly filled out, signed, dated, etc and they absolutely “must be clean, neat, and unfolded.” On the back of the card, students are now required to write a reflection as to why their service was meaningful and how it affected others.

I think that doing this irritates everyone so much that these reflections mean nothing. For example, “I felt good helping the senior citizens play bingo because they couldn’t see the card.” Seriously, how much does that really mean?

Basically, the point of this whole editorial is that community service should be something students want to do, and all these rules and regulations are turning students away from it.

Disgruntled junior disappointed with Ring Day Powerpoint music choices

Bright Oaks Pediatric Center

Dear Tara, I am writing in response to the music selection for the ring ceremony slide show. First, I need to say that the slide show itself was good, and I applaud your efforts in making it but the music chosen for the slideshow wasn’t so good. These are serious comments and not just my opinions of good music. One of the first things I noticed was your use of the Good Riddance (Time of Your Life) by Greenday. There wouldn’t be a problem with this somewhat appropriate song if Greenday didn’t want it played. You were probably unaware that Billie Joe, Mike Dirnt, and Tre Cool specifically ask for this song to never be played at graduations, formal gatherings, etc. They gave this tidbit of information because “they were never invited to any of this stuff so why should their song be”. Second, you used Summer of ’69 by Bryan Adams, which didn’t seem to fit in other than a couple of lines here and there. If you wanted to use this song, you should have at least used the MXPX cover which is a lot better (and I am not just saying that because they are the best band ever). Finally, if you had cut out one of the two songs, you might have had time to finish all the songs instead of cutting them short.

Thank you for your time and concern.

P.S.- If you published Dave Cole’s letter you should publish mine too ‘cause its not much worse.

P.P.S.- This is an opinion; nobody outside of Texas likes country music.

Alex Polyak Dear Alex, Thanks for writing and letting me know how you feel.

Thank you also for informing me of my misuse of Greenday’s song. I was not aware of that, and if they were here for me to apologize, I would. Since they are not, I will try to explain to you what was going on in my head when I placed that song. It was something like, “This sounds like such an appropriate song to use. Since I am sitting here in this cold room all alone and I am literally bouncing ideas off the walls back to myself, I will use it because no one is here to stop me.” Thus I proceeded to record it, and thus your letter was born. Greenday can come find me and personally reprimand me if it bothers them that much, which I doubt it. If they are honestly disturbed by my use of their song, then that is just sad. Finally, next time if you possess these strong feelings towards music, then when I ask for song requests over the PA system, or have an entire committee assigned to help me, get involved, and give me your opinion BEFORE it’s too late to do anything legitimate.

(410) 569-3300

ATTENTION SENIORS (410) 515-7222 Free Rose With Corsage Purchase

P.S.- I happen to enjoy country music. And I’m in Maryland.

April 10, 2002

Volume 37, Number 4

The PATRIOT

News

4

Ring Day glows with golden memories Day theme and Principal Barker made some opening Golden. It’s a descriptive remarks. Later, some juniors including word to depict the color of the Melissa Hmelnicky, summer sun, someone’s hair, or even Ben Murray, Sherry a piece of jewelry.

But a golden Parker, and Sara Spangler gave some memory? This is a reflections of their phrase to describe the experience so far at junior class. Reams JC. of golden memories were made on March T a r a Hofherr created a 15th, 2002, the junior p o w e r p o i n t classes’ annual Ring presentation, Day. Each year displaying class pictures from the past a new class of juniors to present. receives their rings Accompanied by a and celebrates with a Owen Jordan, junior class president, delivers a wide range of music, dance. Big deal speech to the junior class during the Ring Day the presentation was right? Well, this year assembly. enjoyed by everyone. was different. The Reverend class of 2003 pulled their talents it is a very special event, which Later, together and really took advantage brings the junior class together. This Charles K. Riepe of the opportunities to help out and year it began with an opening prayer blessed the rings and Mr. Barker, Mr. McAdams, and Mr. Scholl presented the rings to the juniors.

Mr. Gaudreau then Alex Brueggemann happily embraces his mother after recieving his ring in the ceremony. explained the meaning behind the ring. Closing remarks The history of the J C were made by the junior class School ring is an interesting tale. officers Owen Jordan and Sam After the school opened in 1964 the Sankovich. Finally, Reverend Riepe current principal of the school at the finished the celebration with a closing time, Father Rae Wanner, designed prayer. it to be like no other. Mr. Ward and The ceremony went very Mr. Gaudreau, who were smoothly. As Ms. Murphy, the junior sophomores at the time, stirred up class moderator put it, “I was some controversy about the ring’s Jessie Pitts, Hillary Depman and Camile Barnes show off their newest delighted with the results. The junior appearance, calling it stupid and ugly. accessory, the ever fashionable JC class ring. class is comprised of so many great This resulted in Father Wanner’s people. They make it easy to work reasoning for the design of the ring. be involved, which made Junior Ring given by Colleen O’Brien. Next, on a project and have it turn out Mr. Gaudreau tells the story much weekend better than ever. Juniors Sara Ruzicka spoke about the Ring well.” better - for any underclassmen, you’ll have to wait until your ring ceremony to hear it.

After the ceremony, many juniors went out to eat or just to hang out with friends. Subsequent to having their rings turned one hundred and three times of course. All of the juniors really enjoyed the ceremony.

“I think it was a very bonding experience for our whole class. A lot of people realized there is only one year left and that is not a long time. We better start getting to know everyone better that we haven’t so far,” said Junior Meghan Marchiano.

The majority of the juniors have a different perception of what they want their last year at JC to be like. Many took into consideration that there are a lot of great people in our class and we need to take the initiative to get to know each other better.

“I think Tara did a very On Monday March 25, 2002, all those who entered or drove by the JC campus good job on the slide show. It made saw 400 blue and pink crosses on the grounds. Each cross represented 10 of the me recognize how fast these three years have gone by. We walked in 4000 babies that die each day from abortion. The JC Respect Life Club sponsored freshman year as a bunch of this memorial, called the “Cemetery for the Unborn.” The purpose of the cemetery, strangers who didn’t know each according to the club, was “to witness to the truth about abortion and the dignity other and we’ll be walking out as best of human life.” friends,” said Jen Denicola.

volunteered to help in every way possible, even to speak in front of their fellow peers and parents at the Ring Day Ceremony.

For anyone who has not attended the junior Ring Ceremony

photo by Kevin Korczynski

photo by Kevin Korczynski

photo by Kevin Korczynski

by Lauren Ciemny Staff Writer

Respec espectt Life honor honorss unborn

The PATRIOT

Volume 37, Number 4

April 10, 2002

News

5

Community service toughens up Community service at JC is a traditional graduation requirement, wherein students must perform 40 hours of community service.

Starting with the incoming freshmen, the class of 2006, that requirement is changing. The new policy will be 60 hours of community service, 30 hours of which must be done outside of school.

Sister Marie Gregory became head of the community s e r v i c e program in The comunity service bulletin board outside of the guidance September of department is a good place for students to gather information 2001. Since on potential service hours. then, she has been visiting classrooms to educate students about many people in need, it is more important than ever to volunteer the community service program.

When speaking to Mr. one’s time. In his State of the Union Huber’s American Religions class, address, President Bush called each she opened with a question: “Why American to devote 4,000 hours do we do service?” After a few (roughly 2 years of a person’s life) moments of silence, one Junior to community service.

JC’s requirement is 40 hours answered, “Because we are called to help others through the Bible by over the space of 4 years. That’s 10

hours a year, less than 1 hour a month; that doesn’t seem like so much now. In fact, that is why the requirement has gone up for future classes.

Sister Marie Gregory gave classes she spoke to statistics from other schools to help put our requirement into perspective.

Some Catholic schools require Sister Marie Gregory discusses service hours with as many a 120 Senior Bridget Prosser. hours, three times as many as JC students are program the most. Working outside required to do, twice as many as of school, doing something outside incoming freshmen. our comfort zone, is what stretches Senior Bridget Prosser us as people. She told students to feels that it is “perfectly question themselves about what kind acceptable to require 60 hours of of Christian they are and asked, service,” and also approves of the “where do you look for God, just in new requirement that half of them the comfortable places?” be done outside of school. “Sitting There are many non-profit at an open house table with your organizations in Harford County that friends is a lot different than building often employ adolescent volunteers, a house,” she said. so if you are in need of hours (or not) Helping others is a way to and you want to “learn more about explore your relationship with God. yourself and God,” go see Sister Sister Marie Gregory emphasizes Marie Gregory in the Outreach this aspect of the community service office. photo by Rose Walker

God.” From there, Sister Marie Gregory explained that it is not only our duty as students of JC to perform community service, but our duty as Christians. She encouraged the students to be “the hands of Christ in our community.”

In these difficult times everyone is called to do more than what is expected of us. With so

photo by Rose Walker

by Rosalie Gant Staff Writer

Admission Office enrolls Class of 2006

by Chris O’Reilly Staff Writer

not get out of hand.

school for their children to attend next year. As a highly respected school, JC is a first choice for many of these parents, and because of this demand, the number of students in each grade level is slowly increasing.

T h e time when the entire school could fit in the auditorium are gone, and now even the gym is beginning to look stressed when it is filled with all four classes, but admissions officer Mrs. Brueggemann clearly states that the number of students in the school will

But regardless of whether or not admissions will permit overcrowding in JC, the fact still remains that there is an extreme demand for a place in this school.

There were approximately 370 applications for a place in the class of 2006 and of that less than 250 will be accepted. While the promise that the number of students in the school will not increase still stands, more students does mean more money for the school, and if there is ever a financial crisis, then it may be the only option.

But demand for a place in John Carroll School is not limited to the incoming class, but also throughout the other grades as well. Each grade level gained new members at the beginning of the year and also during the school year.

April 10, 2002

photo by Rose Walker

There are eight hundred students currently attending Spring is the time of the year JC, and Mrs. Brueggemann clarified when parents of students in the that there would be, “No more than eighth grade struggle to find a high that. We won’t let that happen.”

While welcoming the Class of 2006, the admission’s board bids farewell to the seniors by displaying their freshman expectations and pictures.

Despite a number of students leaving at the end of sophomore year, the junior class has still seen an increase in numbers of about five students. Jeff Gray joined the junior class in August when he came from Loyola and claims that the reason he joined JC is because, “Both my sisters came here and they enjoyed it, and it is also a school that has a very good reputation.”

So what does it take to be accepted into JC? Whether or not a student is to be allowed into JC is based on a number of factors. First,

Volume 37, Number 4

the admissions office takes into consideration the grade of the student in sixth, seventh, and eight grade. Then an interview with the student is required, or if that is not possible then a letter of recommendation will suffice.

Concern over the amount of students in each grade is relatively small at the moment. Admissions and administration both pledge to keep the size of classrooms at about twenty, and if this is true, then a few extra students would not disrupt the way of life at JC.

The PATRIOT

News

6

Blood Drive surpasses expectations

by Tara Hofherr Opinions Editor

Everyone who donates blood is tested prior to donating to insure that only healthy and safe blood is collected to be used. The Red Cross is a volunteer organization that works to help these organizations.

It requires two mods of the students day to donate blood, and the process is relatively simple and universal to all blood drives. The donor is asked health questions, and their blood is then tested for any genetic diseases or impurities that would prevent their blood from being used. A volunteer then draws the blood, and the donor receives some soda, a sticker, and a cookie to keep their blood sugar high and minimize the number of fainting donors.

JC offers two opportunities for student to donate, once in the fall and again in the spring. For first time donors, as many JC students are, this is an experience that allows them to literally give back to the local area and offer a service that is much

photo by Miyako Igari

photo by Miyako Igari

photo by Miyako Igari

Rubber gloves, a needle, a diet soda, a smiley faced sticker, and a cookie. What do these things all have in common? They can all be found at the semi-annual JC blood drive.

Every year JC sponsors two American Red Cross Blood Drives to collect blood to donate to the Red Cross’ cause. This year the spring drive was held on March 5th in the JC gym.

Here, more than fifty students gave up two mods of their Mr. Shupe waits with a fearful smile in anticipation of the dreaded needle to day, and more importantly, some of be placed in his arm by one of the Red Cross volunteers. their blood for this cause.

The blood drive is sponsored Matt Corbett said. by the Student Affairs Council. This seventeen.

The blood went to the Red Once the blood has been year the goal was to donate thirty pints of blood. This goal was far Cross, an organization that has been collected from the donor sites it is exceeded by the forty-eight pints of collecting and donating blood to taken back to the Red Cross centers blood that juniors, seniors, and national and world-wide causes for where it is processed and purified so teachers donated. Mr. Shupe said, decades. With the recent events of that it can be given to local hospitals, “It was a worthwhile experience, September 11th the national need for shelters, etc… to help blood has increased, and this drive them maintain a painless and positive.” plentiful supply. The T h e chapter that JC requirements to participates with is participate in this drive the American Red were few, but Cross Greater important. Students Chesapeake and must be seventeen Potomac Blood years old and weigh one Services Region. hundred and ten Other uses pounds. Also, all for the blood are in students, even those blood research labs, Seniors Liz Schmidt, Aimee Karras, and Amanda eighteen and older, had and to help match rare Bertram fill out the preliminary paper work before to have a signed blood type donors making their donation. parental permission slip Junior Leas Curran holds gauze to his left arm with those who need because this was a after the needle drawing his blood is removed. that specific type. The Red Cross appreciated in hospitals and to needy school sponsored event. These requirements were met has provided JC another opportunity has a rare blood donor registry on patients. Senior Liz Schmidt said, “ by many seniors and even more to support these efforts. “It felt good their website where people who need I’m glad I gave blood. I felt good juniors who have recently turned helping out the 9/11 victims,” Senior blood can find their donated match. helping people.”

Forensics revives past to present

by Jennifer Smith Staff Writer

Many people hear the term “forensics” and automatically think of police crime labs and autopsies.

However, this is not what the Forensics team at JC is concerned with. Forensics, in this case, means “to prove” or “to use one’s voice to convince.”

Mr. Couchman said that he wished that the activity had a different name because the current one scares people away. They automatically think that the team does mock police work or something similar. Forensic medicine is the activity that involves police work.

JC’s Forensics team is not at all similar to the forensics connotation. The activities in which the students are involved with the forensics team are reciting speeches, either that they have written or that have been written by others, and reading children’s stories. It is similar to a drama production, only without

The PATRIOT

the props. They use their voice as their costume and props as well as to project their character’s mood and personality.

Forensics is not centered on debate as some people mistakenly believe. One of the activities involved in competitions is declamation, which is reciting a speech that another person wrote.

JC is involved with hosting various events for the team. They usually host the opening round of the season, which begins in October.

The season runs from October through March. The team usually meets every two weeks. However, the events are not focused on the team.

Events are more centered on the individual person. Specific people have specific activities in which they compete. They are involved in two different leagues: the Harford County Forensics League and the Baltimore Country Forensics League. Most of the events that they participate in are the Harford County

Mr. Couchman pointed out that this One of the most interesting extracurricular activity looks good on activities is reading children’s resumes and college applications. “I literature. The person reads the book would like more people to join next using their voice to portray different year,” said Mr. Couchman. characters. They read it as if they were reading it to a child. A judge assigns points according to their performance and their presentation.

“President Nate Lipinski consistently brings home ribbons in this event,” Mr. Couchman said.

Despite the many enjoyable facets of this activity and the opportunity for furthering your 7660 Bel Air Road - Fullerton education and public Beltway Exit 32 South 410-882-5911 speaking ability, the Forensics team has only a half dozen ALL seats $2.00 ALL TIMES regular students that **Party Room Available** attend the meetings. ones.

Volume 37, Number 4

Beltway Movies 6

April 10, 2002

7

News

New enviroment inspires liturgy One family, one body in Christ has been the theme for this school year. The successful Ash Wednesday liturgy proved to continue to strengthen this goal.

Liturgy was celebrated in the auditorium, which was a completely different environment than the gym.

There were two liturgies celebrated, one for seniors and juniors and a second for sophomores and freshman. “Four stars and two thumbs up for the Ash Wednesday mass,” said Sr. Paula, apparently summing up staff, faculty, and student feedback about the different liturgical experience.

School wide liturgies in the gym have always concerned many people in the JC community. The Catholic Schools Week mass on January 28th exacerbated this feeling and encouraged many staff and faculty members to evaluate the current liturgy situation. As Mr. Barker said, “It is safe to say many of our students were lifeless for most of the liturgy, only becoming animated at the sign of peace and more inappropriately during communion.”

Within the next few days, Mrs. Murphy was flooded with emails about many suggestions to improve the liturgical experience for

Wednesday mass, which at the time was less then two weeks away. The changes included a special bell schedule to accommodate two liturgies, which would be in the auditorium. As Mr. Barker said, “Our goal is to expect a lot out of people but also to place them in conditions where good things can happen.”

Due to responses following the Ash Wednesday liturgy, many teachers and students enjoyed the mass much Junior Marty Kaufman enjoys the accoustics in more than in the past. the new mass surroundings of the auditorium.

Mrs. Fisher remarked, “ Mass was 100% better, everyone. A majority of teachers it was like having a different group recommended moving the mass from of students.” Also, many teachers the gym to a more spiritual felt they were better able to monitor environment, the auditorium. student behavior because students “When we have liturgy in the were not scattered with other gym there is going to be a homerooms. contingency that may have difficulty Among the student body it making the transition to church. We appears that the cushioned seats may say it is church, but the fact that made mass much more enjoyable. there are basketball hoops up and Juniors Amy Indyke and Sam Heeresitting in the stands, can lend itself to Beyer both agreed that they “liked a non-contemplative experience,” mass in the auditorium because it said Mr. Johnson. was more comfortable.” Freshman In response to all the Greg Hatem said, “Mass was much suggestions, Mrs. Murphy made more organized.” substantive changes for the Ash The sectioned seating photo by Valerie Beach

by Colleen O’Brien Managing Editor

enabled students to receive ashes and communion much more smoothly than from the bleachers. This organization also allowed both masses to be completed with time still remaining. This “delighted” Mrs. Murphy and permitted the special schedule to work fine.

The fact that the community was separated in two did not seem to cause many concerns. Mr. Baker said, “It is desirable that we all gather as one, but we cannot fit everybody.

It is a tradeoff. It is better to have something that is reverential and meaningful with teachers less concerned with keeping order. I think we achieved that.”

Mrs. Murphy said, “The freshman seemed more comfortable taking part in the mass because it was just freshman and sophomores.”

The songs being presented on powerpoint instead of paper programs was another change at mass. This prevented wasting paper and also kept students from bopping one another with the programs. In the future the responses will also appear on the screen.

Mrs. Murphy is happy that they decided to be “pro-active” and not wait until next year to have mass in the auditorium. This mass was the last school wide liturgy for this school year, but for next year Mrs. Murphy said, “the plan is to continue to have mass in the auditorium.”

Heubeck attempts to enrich delinquent minds emptying trashcans, cafeteria cleanup, sweeping the staircases, and homeroom cleanups. Although these jobs are a considerable punishment, students were not properly supervised.

Students took advantage of the situation, finishing their assigned

photo by Tara Hofherr

Detention is supposed to be a punishment in order to teach students lessons in behavior and respect. For the past few years, detention at JC has become an easy and lackadaisical event, a time for students to talk and fool around with friends.

Principal Barker has introduced many new policies in his first year as principal. More importantly, he has Juniors Alyx Moore and Sam Fallon recieve their transformed assignments from Mr. Heubeck during afternoon detention into a detention. punishment as well as a learning experience. jobs quickly and apathetically.

When a student receives a During this time, they would roam the detention slip they are required to get building, fooling around and talking it signed by the next day. In the to friends until 3:30, when they would years past, students were able to be dismissed. schedule their detention around afterDetention was supposed to school events. Now, students are teach students a lesson but instead required to serve their detention the turned into a social hour. This day after it is received. concerned many teachers and In the past, students would faculty members, and so a new form report to detention at 2:45 and were of detention was born. assigned a cleaning job. Some of In the past, detention was these jobs include cleaning and held in different rooms and

April 10, 2002

supervised by different teachers each week. To avoid confusion, Mr. Heubeck now supervises detention daily in room 311. Mr. Heubeck said, “I decided to moderate detention because it introduced me to a population of students that I’m not usually introduced to.”

Students are now required to follow the school day dress code. This means shirts tucked in, buttons buttoned, and ties pulled up. The biggest change from last year is the requirement for men to wear their sport jackets throughout detention.

In the beginning of this year, a few students were selected to perform various cleaning jobs around the school.

The majority of students in detention were forced to sit in the classroom and do nothing. No homework, reading, or sleeping was allowed. Students could only sit and watch time tick away slowly.

Mr. Heubeck, social studies teacher and detention supervisor saw room for improvement, implementing a new system for detention. A few students would still be chosen for cleaning duty, but the rest of the students would be assigned oral reports. News

Volume 37, Number 4

photo by Tara Hofherr

by Joel Wienholt News Co-Editor

Courtney Quinn presents her oral report to the students in detention.

magazines from the JC library are now given to each student in detention.

Students are required to read an article and perform a short oral presentation at the end of the detention. Mr. Heubeck explains, “The oral reports are a contructive way to use time.”Although this year many changes have been made to detention, there are more to come.

Mr. Heubeck said, “I have some big surprises for the future.”

The PATRIOT

Features

8

Ring tradition comes full circle members were very involved with the planning and also decorating.”

From committee members to dance In the weeks leading up to attendees, Ring Dance was a classRing Dance, things were quite bonding event made most memorable chaotic to say the least. Girls were by the participation level of junior busy shopping for that class members. special dress, buying the As the shoes to match, and committees coordinating jewelry. They formed, the also had to make anticipation appointments for nails, hair, grew. After all, and order boutonnieres. this has been a The guys, on the long awaited other hand, could afford to Danielle D’Antona and affair ever since be much more lackadaisical. Hillary Coleman express freshman year.

Their only jobs were to order their excitement at the “I think it was a flowers, buy tickets to the much anticipated Junior lot of fun; dance and perhaps buy a Ring Dance. hopefully it new shirt and tie. brought our class together,” said The dance was a defining Carter Grieninger in anticipation of moment for the class of ’03, showing the dance. not only that it is very spirited, but A “Hollywood” theme, voted also very close-knit and outgoing. on by the class ,added pizzazz and Mrs. Murphy said, “The junior class glamour to the evening. All the plans has great spirit. Many of the were set into motion. The budget Photo courtesy of Hillary Coleman

by Valerie Zimmerer Staff Writer

was tight, so local theatres and video stores were scoured for donations.

Props were rented, flowers ordered, balloons,and stars were bought. The silver limo, red carpet, and the fountain beneath the archway were great, but nothing could quite compare with the student’s personalized “Walk of Fame” which adorned the entryway walls. This was an idea pioneered by Meaghan Smith. Jess Pasko put in many hours cutting out 234 hands and writing the name of every junior class member beneath their own “hand.”

Unity was a direct result of the diligent decorating of committee members and of other classmates who, wanting to be involved. They worked together diligently, timelessly decorating on the eve of the dance.

The night of the big event was freezing and windy, but it didn’t damper the spirit of this class. Many couples enjoyed the photograph sessions in the limo, “autographed”

the walls, admired the decorations and danced the night away.

Everyone looked spectacular, even the teachers who were there to chaperone and spend this magical night with the junior class. The students could not help but feel like stars.

Enjoyment was plentiful afterwards. Ben Murray agreed that the night was a success.“I thought it was a lot of fun. I think most people had a good time, I know I had a great time with my date!”he said.

Class moderators Mrs. Murphy and Mrs. Kraft were both in agreement that the dance was a success. Ms. Murphy remarked: “I thought the junior Ring Dance was a wonderful success and will be a great memory for all the students who attended.” Meanwhile Mrs. Kraft was “really thrilled that everyone had a good time. I know that was our goal.”

Lots thrive due to Outdoor activities lack of hotspots blossom in spring

by Amy Graul Staff Writer

Stereotypically, the average JC student can be found in three places on the weekends: sitting around at someone’s house waiting for something to do, driving around Bel Air waiting for something to do, or parked in a parking lot waiting for something to do. It is the last of these three places that brings about the greatest controversy.

The parking lot hangout serves JC students for multiple purposes. For the majority of the time, kids are just waiting for something to do. The parking lot (specifically the BK parking lot located on 543) is an ideal location for everyone to meet up with one another since it’s a central location for many students. “If there’s no other place to go, it’s an easy place to meet up with people,” said junior Alex Renjel.

Yet another perk of the parking lot is that it’s a great place to socialize. Sophomore Julia Kyle and juniors Sam Fallon and Courtney Quinn simultaneously chuckled, “It’s a great place to pick up boys.”

The PATRIOT

Similar to the elementary school days of young love on the school blacktop, romance lingers out there on these very parking lots JC prides itself on excellence, and the students who attend the school are nothing less than bright. The students have many logical reasons for sitting around in parking lots. Junior Catherine Fortunato put it simply, saying “they don’t kick us out.” If by chance, one would get a sudden attack of the munchies, the parking lot at BK would be a perfect place to satisfy the craving. Junior Abby Chrismer brings up another point of logic: “There’s enough parking spaces for everyone to fit, unlike JC.” The town of Bel Air is not necessarily the most happening place, and on Friday and Saturday nights some students find themselves with little to do. “We hang out in parking lots because the town of Bel Air gives teenagers no place to hang out without age profiling,” said junior Nick VanHorn.

However, for those who lack a driver’s license, hanging out in the parking lots may not their decision. Those who actually are driving the cars normally will determine the license-less’ parking lot fate. If a student is letting their friend drive them, they should automatically realize that at some point during the night, they will end up parked between two yellow lines in a parking lot.

by Lou Perseghin News Co-Editor

As spring blooms in the minds of many Harford county residents, so do the many things that one can do outdoors in the warmer months to come.

For the outdoor enthusiast, there are quite a few different locations around the area where hiking, biking, camping, canoeing, and various other activities can be enjoyed.

Close to home, there is the popular Rocks State Park. Offering 855 acres of forested area in which to hike, tube, fish, swim, or bicycle, Rocks is an ideal place to take a day trip. Hiking up to the King and Queen Seat is one of the more popular activities at Rocks, and it is easy to see why. The view from the top of the 190-foot high cliff is spectacular, overlooking the forested lands for miles around.

Another area for hiking is the Gunpowder State Park area off of Bel Air Road (Route 1), past Kingsville. There are trails on both sides of the river, running for a few miles, and there are good spots to swim. Junior Jonathan Gentri said, “Hiking brings back my peace of mind after a long week of school and lets me work off the stress.” Biking is also allowed on the trails, which can be quite muddy after any period

Volume 37, Number 4

of rain, due to their proximity to the river.

In addition to land activities, there are other activities such as canoeing and fishing for the more aquatic-inclined. “I love going fishing because all that you do is sit around in the middle of nature and relax.

Once in a while a fish bites and that makes it fun,” said junior Tyler Smardzewski.

Although they both require extra equipment, these two waterbound activities are very relaxing and might help the weary student unwind after a week of hard work. Canoeing is very easy around the county, as there are so many places to dock your boat.

Eden Mill is a wonderful area to canoe because the Eden Mill dam insures that there will be enough water to paddle a considerable distance.

Dundee Creek near Joppatowne is a good place to canoe as well. The Joppatowne elite harbor their boats at the marina, and when putting out one must be careful of the speeding boaters.

Once you get into an area that is too shallow for motor boats to travel into, one gets a peaceful feeling of being alone, despite the proximity to the rest of civilization.

Dundee Creek is also an excellent place to go to learn about tidal marshes and a wide variety of aviary life.

April 10, 2002

Features

9

Frazier says pip-pip-cheerio Alumnus expresses himself with British Andy From the humble stage of JC’s auditorium to the limelight of local clubs and venues, Matt Frazier, JC alumnus, has taken his love for music and pursued a dream. With his drumsticks in hand, Frazier and his band, British Andy, hope to change the face of music.

Matt graduated as salutatorian from JC in 1999 where he played golf, was president of the Spanish Honor Society, and was a member of the National Honor Society. JC has been a major influence and a cornerstone for the friendships that guided Matt through his musical experience.

“The friends I met at JC are still some of my best friends today.

It’s nice to still be in touch with some faculty members like Mr. Scholl and Mrs. Michael,” Matt said.

The first edition of his band

began in Matt’s junior year. he met the members of his present Members included other John band, British Andy. The band is Carroll alumni Jay Williams, Eric named after a British student that the Syphard , Taylor Whitehurst on bass, members met in Paris one weekend and Matt.

Students may remember their Variety S h o w performance of “Free Bird,” their first performance and one of their last.

“We played a few parties and the Alumni Matt Frazier’s band, British Andy, is comprised JC Fair,” of Nick Howenstein, Jarrett Creasy, Steven Brooke, Tom Emswiler and Matt Frazier.

F r a z i e r commented, “but the crowning at the conclusion of the JMU Spring moment was playing our show on Semester in London. Since then, the top of the Bel Air parking garage British Andy has taken on and having the cops come break it Harrisonburg, VA in order to “save up on the last night before we left rock and roll.” for college.”

British Andy has played at Matt is currently enrolled at Mainstreet, a bar near JMU where James Madison University. There Vanilla Ice and Blue Oyster Cult photo courtesy of www.britishandy.com

by Katie Chlada Web Editor

have also graced the stage. In April they are opening for Fighting Gravity, and on April 1 st their first CD became available on www.britishandy.com. Pondering about the future, Matt said, “We’d like to do a small club tour around DC, Baltimore, and Northern Virginia in the summer to promote our CD, and we’d love to get a record deal by next year.”

On the band experience, Frazier remarked, “It’s an exciting time for us because no one really knows what’s going to happen, but we’ve been incredibly well-received everywhere we’ve played.”

Matt has achieved many high school students’ dream of being in an emerging band. He said, “If British Andy doesn’t work out and never turns into anything huge, then I’d like to work for a record label or have my own. Either way, I definitely will be in the music business.”

Seniors plagued by annual illness

photo by Kevin Korczynski

April 10, 2002

and therefore believe themselves to later on in the school year.

This does not give a concrete be better than anyone else.

Maybe three complete solution to how some students years of high school is just too much develop senioritis at the beginning of for the human body to handle, and it the senior year, but it is definitely a has to shut down all brain functions valid reason why students would in order to restore itself. Or maybe start to become lazy as spring rolls just the thought of college ahead around, and are accepted into the of their choice. sends students into a state of mental college Unfortunately, as time goes by more shock.

However, the recent boom and more seniors will discover in the number of students with whether or not they too have been senioritis suggests another theory. accepted to college, and then they As one senior, who wishes to remain may also be affected by the epidemic.

While the idea of not anonymous, commented, “I’ve stopped doing all assignments in my working and slacking your way religion class, and I have stopped through your senior year may appeal paying attention to the teachers in to some, it is not without its English and Math because I’ve repercussions. Not doing homework already been accepted to my first or being late for school can mean detentions, and continued idleness choice college.”

One of the main forms of impetus behind a senior’s desire to do well academically is that they want to get into the college of their choice. However, by this stage in the school year, many seniors have already been accepted into their first choice college, and therefore have no Eric Temple exhibits a common symptom of the desire to work in their dreaded illness senioritis, staring off into space. classes because they do not believe that they are achieving could lead to more serious punishments that could make any anything.

This attitude towards college think twice about enrolling a schoolwork can certainly be student. It seems that in the end, classified as senioritis, and would senioritis only ends up hurting the account for why students catch it students who catch it.

Volume 37, Number 4

photo by Kevin Korczynski

year, some students seem to shed all these admirable qualities that they have built up over the years, and adopt a far more lackluster approach Throughout high school, to life. It is this strange phenomenon students develop many skills required that has come to be known as of them to survive in the dog-eat-dog senioritis. world we live in. Responsibility, Senioritis affects a number punctuality, respect, and job of students in the senior class, and can be caught at any time during the graduating year. Some students may exhibit signs of senioritis from the very start of the first semester, while many others develop the condition as the year goes by. However, it is about this time of the year, as seniors await college acceptances, that the condition seems to Jim Goble takes a nap in the senior bench area, a dangerous place to be for students hoping not to catch become commonplace throughout the senior senioritis. class. responsibility are all virtuous traits that Symptoms of senioritis vary, are necessary for careers. although they often include lateness, This is why what happens to failure to complete homework, and students in their senior year remains treating the other students in the a mystery. As soon as they hit senior school like slaves. Anyone who can claim that they have “quit doing all homework” could certainly be diagnosed as being a victim of senioritis.

There are many theories as to the cause of this ailment. Perhaps it is because seniors have reached the pinnacle of their high school careers,

by Chris O’Reilly Staff Writer

The PATRIOT

Features

10

by Tom Scilipoti Staff Writer

Let’s peace roll to BK and bust a fog. In almost every other place in the world, that sentence is jibberish. At JC, however, it’s a cliché. Unusual verbiage consisting of phrases like wig out and straight chill, have become part of the vernacular language to many JC students over the past few years.

The origin of recent vernacular, or everyday language of the people, that is used by much of the student body, is a mystery to many. “I don’t think anybody really knows exactly where they [JC slang words] came from,” said junior Brian “The Sketch Artist” Turek.

While their exact origin is unknown, recent slang terms have their roots knee deep in the class of ’01. “A lot of last years seniors had their own slang,” said junior Alex Renjel.

Alex went on to describe the first time he heard this slang. “I was at the OAR Concert at Recher, in December of 2000. The seniors at the concert seemed to be speaking in a language of their own. They were saying things like bust a fog and peace roll. Their slang was foreign to me at the time but pretty soon, everyone around the school was talking like them.”

Slang used by a small group

of last year’s upperclassmen has with fogs is the popular phrase, bust grown into everyday language at JC. a fog, which means to smoke a Nowadays it’s not uncommon to see cigarette. Someone who smokes a JC slang terms like chill and fog in lot of cigarettes is said to, “bust mad headlines of the Patriot. Still, if you fogs.” are like many students and teachers Peace Roll- is a verb that reading this article, you’re probably has replaced “go to” in the confused about what’s considered JC slang: here’s a grammar lesson: Chill-this is the “and” of JC slang.

It’s used so often that many students are tired of hearing it. “[Some] people need to stop saying chill, they say it too much,” A group of unsuspecting freshman peacefully munch on said junior Adam their lunches, unaware of the slang that will soon wheedle Trionfo. its way into their vernacular.

Chill can be used as a verb meaning to settle vocabulary of many a JC student. down, but it’s most commonly used Peace Roll comes from a ubiquitous in adjective form. Basically, it means slang term, roll (to leave/go), and cool, and it is used to describe basically means the same thing. anything from a Dave Matthews Instead of saying, “Let’s go Concert to a new pair of Wallabees. to Buentempo’s,” a JC student might Someone who’s really cool could be say, “Let’s peace roll to described as straight chill.

Buentempo’s.” Variations of this verb Fog-no it’s not a also exist. “Done’ Peace Rolled” is circumstratus cloud, but rather a the past tense of peace roll meaning cigarette. Word on the streets is that “left.” “Peacin’ “ is sometimes used Erich Arnold ’00 coined the phrase. in place of peace roll.

Erich often heard city folk refer to Sketch-is an adjective cigarettes as fugs. He thought they meaning uncertain, troubling or were calling them fogs. So, he worrisome. It comes from the slang started calling cigarettes fogs, and term sketchy (originating from the the name stuck. Often connected English word skeptical). Skeptical

photo by Kevin Korczynski

Vernacular infects hallways is the same thing as sketchy but with one less syllable.

Sketch is often used in situations where there could possibly be trouble. Someone who is often skeptical is referred to as a sketch artist. “Kyle Christ, class of 2001, is the ultimate sketch artist,” said junior Andrew Kachur.

Wig Out-a verb meaning “to burst out in a boisterous manner” is a rather recent addition to the JC vernacular.

When someone spontaneously becomes angry and flips out, he/she is said to have “wigged out.” Often phrases like “pull a wig job” and “kirk out” are used in place of “wig out.”

Many think recently introduced slang terms are rapidly becoming part of everyday language throughout the student body. “Two years ago, nobody used them, now I can’t go through a school day without hearing somebody say something like slammin’ or peace roll,” said junior Adam Trionfo.

If this trend continues, don’t be surprised if someone says to you “Bum me a fog. Is it chill to bust a fog on the oval?”

Be educated.

Tell them that it’s not okay to smoke a cigarette on school grounds by saying “No it’s sketch.

The Pierce Man will wig out if he sees us. Let’s peace roll to BK instead.”

by Bobby Spero Staff Writer Skateboarding: many things may come to peoples’ minds when this word is uttered. One might think of Tony Hawk or Bam Margera or the extensive lines of skateboard clothing available today. The summer X-games may also come to mind.

However, there is more to skateboarding then most people think.

Skateboarding is one of the coolest things ever to disembark on the face of the planet.

There are so many things that skateboarding has to offer. There are videos, clothing, skateboards of course, and the assurance of the 5-0 on your back for skating at the 7-11.

Skateboarding originated around the turn of the century. It wasn’t like it is now; the skateboards were usually made out of a 2x4 and roller skate wheels. Skateboards began to become more modernized in the 1950’s. Trucks (the metal things that hold the wheels) were

The PATRIOT

modified, and instead of roller skate wheels, clay wheels were used and “sidewalk surfing” was born.

In 1959, the first skateboard was mass-produced and was called the Roller Derby Skateboard. In the 60’s, skateboarding’s popularity began to roll.

In the 70’s, a surfer named Frank Nasworthy developed urethane wheels for skateboards.

Urethane wheels rode a lot better

then clay wheels because they were smooth like butter. Throughout the rest of the 70’s, skateboard parts became more advanced – especially trucks.

Road Rider came up with precision bearings that were much better than bearings they had currently. Skateboard parks started to spring up all over the country.

Thousands of skaters hopped on to the fad of freestyle skateboarding, the all-time best freestyle skater being Rodney Mullen.

When vert and street skating became more popular, freestyle riding became less popular. A man by the name of Alan Gelfand invented the “ollie” in 1978. So many tricks were developed out of the ollie.

If it weren’t for the ollie, skateboarding would stink, like porkchops without applesauce. For those who aren’t down with the skating lingo, the “ollie” is when the skateboard is projected in the air without the help of your hands, only your feet.

The 80’s is when a lot of skate magazines started coming alive. Skaters like Rodney Mullen, freestyle skateboard artist, entered the scene, along with Tony Hawk. The 80’s were most triumphant for the sport.

Many companies started getting a piece of the skateboarding pie.

Today, after a brief hibernation, the innovative sport is

Volume 37, Number 4

photo by Rose Walker

Skateboarding popularity ollies back

Senior Fred Rolfhing shows off his skateboarding skills.

gaining back the popularity it had years ago.

April 10, 2002

Features

11

Students lament over manual labor

by Tara Hofherr

Opinions Editor It is 2:35 on a Friday afternoon, and the last bell of the day rings, signaling the beginning of another weekend. Students frantically rush to their lockers, grab their keys, and race to their cars, eager to get as far away from JC as fast as they possibly can.

Those students who happen to wander the halls at 2:40, however, may find that within each classroom there remain at least two or three JC students. The question often asked by unfamiliar guests is “why?”

The answer lies in two words that spark a rush of emotion in the entire JC community—homeroom cleanup.

Homeroom cleanup is an after school requirement that has been in place since the school opened

in 1964. It varies from homeroom to homeroom, but the general idea is all the same. Students within each homeroom take turns staying after school to clean the classroom and prepare it for the next day’s classes.

The most common jobs that have to be done on a day-to-day basis are erasing the boards, sweeping the floor, cleaning the erasers, and straightening the desks, however, exact policies differ with each teacher.

Mr. Chrismer’s policy can be summed up with the statement of equality: “Three students and I clean up the whole room.” Written on the left side of his board are the precise jobs that must be done each day.

Where much of the deliberation over homeroom cleanup comes in, is the punishment for failure to complete it when assigned.

Mr. Chrismer has four things that occur if a student misses a day of homeroom cleanup. First, the student is spoken to about his/her absence.

Second, the student is advised not to miss another day. Third, the student must apologize to the other two people who had to do their share of the work, and fourth, the student will

most likely have to do it by himself one day. Even if a student is leaving school for a game, substitutes are expected and a student must physically complete homeroom cleanup three times a week, even during absences.

Junior Jason Hardesty, of Mr. Chrismer’s 11D homeroom, has his own opinion on homeroom cleanup. “I’m not paying $8000 to be a janitor. I’d rather go to public school for free and not clean,” he said while waiting in Mr. Chrismer’s room for his ride who had cleanup that week.

No students, however, can fully appreciate the complete extent of homeroom cleanup unless they have the alphabetical privilege to be in Mr. Brennen’s homeroom. Known to be the strictest homeroom cleanup enforcer in all of JC, Mr. Brennen has his homeroom cleanup rules typed and printed for easy access.

The tasks to be completed are not excessively different from other teachers, but his policy for substitution and absence is clearly not to be tested. Students in homeroom 9H are expected to arrive

for homeroom cleanup by 2:45, under the risk of receiving a major detention.

Absence from homeroom cleanup without arranging a substitute results in a major detention. Failure to inform Mr. Brennen of an established substitution results in a major detention.

For chemistry teacher Mrs. Julie Baker’s room , it takes two absences in one week for a student to receive a major detention. Such punishment and policies have aroused various feelings in students.

Freshman Brittany Peters said, “With all the tuition that they charge us, they should have janitors.”

In contrast, Junior Camille Barnes said, “People who complain about homeroom cleanup are just lazy and apathetic.”

However conflicting and controversial homeroom cleanup is, students will just have to continue starting their weekends fifteen minutes late, and leaving their homerooms swept, erased, and straightened.

Appleby hangs with his best spuddies

by Ryan McCavitt Features Co-Editor

JC is the Potato Head fetish that has developed around the plants and on the walls of room 106.

The origins of this peculiar ritual of giving potato heads to the math teacher dates back circa 1980.

The first in the line of the “interchangeable” faced potatoes

consumer would place on a regular, edible potato. It was the first toy ever advertised on network television. These original Heads were first made in 1952, and this year the Spud is celebrating his 50 th birthday.

Some of Mr. Appleby’s

photos by Miyako Igari

It may be tempting to some to commence playing with Mr. Potato Head almost spontaneously, but Mr. Appleby has held his own for all these years. When asked if he had An average student, not too ever played with them when no one different from yourself, is sitting in a is watching, Mr. Appleby adamantly classroom, much like the very one denied it. you may be seated in right But then he came to his now. A covert guest, unseen senses and admitted, “In the even by the trained eye, is summer, when [the janitors] leering at him from all sides. clean the room, I have to put The student peers them in a box and take them over his shoulder. Something home. catches his eye: an elliptical While in the box the parts figure that stands a height of become dislodged from the body, around half a foot. It’s so at the begin of school I have peering back. All of a sudden to put them back on and I usually the student awakens to the try to match them.” fact that the object he has Sometimes the Potatoes get caught sight of is the classic stolen, misplaced, or hidden, but Hasbro toy, Mr. Potato one event sticks out in Mr. Head.

Appleby’s mind: “One day a The student might be student with a mask on came one who frequents the into my classroom in the middle classes of Algebra 3, Preof a class and stole a Potato Calculus, or Calculus. The Head from off the top of my TV. classroom is room 106. And Then I began to receive ransom the instructor is none other notes with different body parts than Mr. Potato Head’s long attached saying that the Potato lost cousin, Mr. George Head would be killed. They also This is the story of a man named George... Clearly, Mr. Appleby and his spuddy children are Appleby. demanded things like green one happy Hasbro bunch.

This moniker was dragon spit, so I made them a developed for the senior leader of was given to Mr. Appleby as a thank students do not accept the Heads as bottle of colored water, had one of JC’s math corps a while back. “A you for moderating the Senior Variety readily as others. Junior Adrian the biology teachers sign a label on it good number of years back, maybe Show. The original one was the Feijoo, a classmate of the Potatoes and placed it out on the football field.

20, one of my students referred to standard Potato Head that has been during Algebra 3 class, said, “It’s At the end of the year, at graduation, me as Mr. Potato Head. And then made since 1964. distracting and it feels like you are the valedictorian had the Potato The true original Potato being watched.” While pre-Calculus Head and said it had been on vacation some started giving me the Potato Heads made by Hasbro did not have student junior Adam Bauer said, “It’s in Idaho.”

Heads as gifts,” Mr. Appleby said.

One of the unique traits of bodies, they were just pieces that the a weird obsession.”

April 10, 2002

Volume 37, Number 4

The PATRIOT

12

Entertainment

Restless tourists sail to Annapolis hardly enough room to park your car, but this creates a homey feeling, with visitors and residents walking If Mother Nature does not around everywhere. throw a twist into the usual calendar Historic downtown climate, winter has gone away for Annapolis is where most find another year. On these days, take themselves when they visit advantage of the cheerful weather Annapolis. It is a National Historic and get of the house. There is one Landmark that has significant problem, though: What do you do? buildings color-coded by the Bel Air, as everyone says, Historic Annapolis Foundation to tell does not offer much for teenagers, their architectural period. unless the highlight of every weekend History buffs will find the is seeing a flick in one of the four or tours of the historic sector five movie theaters in the vicinity. very interesting.

If none of these seem City Dock, the enticing, you could always stay at most popular and most home and watch The Antique Road visited location in Historic Show on HGTV with your mom. But Annapolis, is the resting for the go-getters, fill up the tank place for enormous with some gas and take a little road yachts, fishing boats, trip. sailing vessels, and the tiny Baltimore is about a half rubber boats that every hour away. There is no doubt that it boater uses to cruise into is a fun tourist attraction to visit, but shore. you have done it before. Ocean City Many tourists is three hours away. For some, it is come to see the evertoo long of a journey for a few hours present activity happening around of fun. When these common the port. Junior Lyndsie Barlow suggestions still leave you stumped, said, “It’s like Martha’s Vineyard there is an alternative. Visit with its upscale nautical atmosphere, Annapolis. classy restaurants, great music, Our state’s capital is less sailing regattas, and fabulous than an hour and a half away and shopping. City Dock is the place to offers just as much as the other be.” weekend excursions. The small Around the dock there are waterfront city has thin streets and restaurants and unique coffee and

by Sara Clafferty Entertainment Co-Editor

antique shops. The old, rugged building in the center of it all is the famous Market House where fresh shellfish, poultry, fruit, and desserts are sold.

A two-minute walk around the traffic circle of City Dock leads to Main Street, an antique, cobblestone street that offers the best shopping in all of Annapolis. Each store has a different personality and creative decorations. The items sold range from CD’s to NAVY apparel.

Historic Annapolis. The 338-acre campus boards about 4,000 midshipmen, who can frequently be seen walking around the roads in their fancy Navy uniforms, mingling around the many pubs and bagel shops. The intercollegiate football at the college always draws a crowd. Visitors are welcomed, although security has gotten stricter since the terrorist attacks.

After going into every shop and taking a quick look at the Naval Academy, why not do what Annapolis is most famous for: sail!

After all Annapolis is “the sailing capital of the world.” There are dozens of self-owned businesses that take visitors out on the bay to get a taste for what it is all about.

No trip to Annapolis is complete without some type of adventure on the water.

There are some quaint, family-owned stores that sell homemade knick-knacks or pottery.

And no trip up and down Main Street is complete without a scoop of Ben & Jerry’s gourmet ice cream.

Annapolis is also the home of the U.S. Naval Academy, adorning the shore of the Chesapeake Bay and connecting to

Annapolis is a cute little town with much to offer for any person. Marc Bolden said, “It’s a beautiful place to visit, great for a day with the family.” Shopping, eating, and site-seeing is what most tourists like to do when visiting an area for a day, but in Annapolis, one can do all of this, and simultaneously brush up on some Maryland history.

Recher Theater rocks Baltimore area

by Owen Jordan Sports Co-Editor

first time I saw a concert there [Recher], I will jump at the chance

crazy is bound to happen. Sophomore Julia Kyle said, “It’s so much fun

Recher has an interesting history that starts back in 1959. The Recher family purchased the theater, which was previously known as the Towson Theater, and ran it as a single theater until 1992. The Recher brothers reopened the place in 1996 as Rech-room Billiards.

Due to its great acoustic qualities, it began to showcase a variety of bands. In 1999, the Rechroom Billiards became The Recher Theater. The venue has never looked back. It showcases new bands almost every night and actually has groupies that go to concerts just to be there.

The atmosphere at these concerts is amazing. “Ever since the

The PATRIOT

photo by Miyako Igari

.

The Recher Theater is located on York Road in the heart of Towson. The small venue can host a concert with vibe that could fill a stadium. The “Rech” room is a hot spot for local school students to catch a slew of up-and-coming and some famous bands. John Carroll’s favorite, OAR, frequents Recher and consistently sends students running for tickets.

The sign displaying upcoming shows and almost daily bands attracts Recher patrons. The theater is located just a few blocks from the mall.

to go back,” said junior Alex Renjel.

Anytime there are eight hundred screaming college and high school students in a tiny venue something

when all your friends go to see your favorite band (OAR): it’s like one big party.”

The bands that Recher

showcases are from all over the spectrum. They range from the psychedelic George Clinton and the P-funk All-stars, to the upbeat rock of Linkin Park. It’s a good guarantee that at least one of JC’s favorites will visit Recher: Kelly Bell Band, Tripping Billies, Stained, String Cheese Incident, Guster, Dispatch, and Fuel.

Local bands drop in at the sight, which makes it such a great place. Famous bands can play right after bands that are up and coming or are straight out of the garage. “It’s a great place where friends can just go crazy, sing, and dance with their favorite local bands,” says junior Sam Sankovitch. When it comes to checking out the latest bands or if you’re looking for an exciting weekend destination, Recher is the place.

2 Newport Drive Forest Hill, MD 21050 (410) 836-0200 (410) 836-0213 fax Volume 37, Number 4

April 10, 2002

13

Entertainment

Musical crazes audience

by Joel Wienholt News Co-Editor

Continued from the front page

Korczynski and Ruzicka led the cast with an abundance of spirited personality and high energy.

Whether playing cat-and-mouse in “Shall We Dance?” or dancing elegant ballroom style in the grand “Finale,” the chemistry between these two was unmistakable.

The glamorous Karas and the seemingly dimwitted Lowman worked well, quarreling, and adding a hint of sexual tension in the torch song “Naughty Baby.” Comic relief was provided best by Lazor, nailing every one of his lines with wit and charisma; as well as Faber and Miller who made the most of their small roles with their perfectly zany characterizations.

DVDs put VHS out of picture

Aimee Karas seduces Morgan Lowman in “Naughty Baby.”

grand chorus that dominated the stage with vocal power and stage presence.

Staged fluidly and memorably by Mrs. Laura Lang, the action moved swiftly, thanks also to the direction of choreographers Mrs. K i m b e r l y Brueggemann and Mr. Larry Hensley, the vocal guidance of Mrs. Barbara Bair, the smooth baton of Ms. Kate Haeberle, Korczynski and Lazor lean back to back singing and the artistic their duet song “What Causes That.” expertise of Mr. Sara Spangler and Joseph Michael Gaudreau and Mr. Bob Kauffman vividly captured the Schick.

The cast created an audience’s attention, as they successfully portrayed two doting exceptional production, with talent above and beyond that of recent and eventually loveable parents.

Hmelnicky and Blume years. “It was great to have vastly brought class to the production different people come together and numbers by leading the featured make something incredible,” said dancers in prominent songs like “I senior Amanda Yohe.

Whether enjoying exciting Can’t Be Bothered Now” and “Entrance to Nevada.” Also solos and scenes or watching the notable: the comical trio of singin’ entire stage come to life in “I Got cowboys (Evan Pitts, Jimmy Rhythm,” Crazy For You had Biernatowski, Joseph Murphy), the audiences walking away asking, always-dancin’ Follies Girls, and the “who could ask for anything more?”

The introduction of DVD (Digital Video Disk), has transformed the way people now watch movies.

In a few short years since its introduction, DVD has achieved market acceptance and sales far beyond any earlier technologies in such a small period of time.

Many people have bought DVD players to use at home in place of the outdated VHS player. VHS sales have greatly decreased with the introduction of this new industry. Joe Condon explains, “DVD’s are more deep than VHS.” In 1975, Sony Corporation introduced the first successful consumer video tape recorder, the Betamax system. About a year later VHS (Video Home System) was introduced by JVC, creating a new industry.

VHS provided a home theater in the comfort of peoples’ home. Although VHS players were not very affordable in the beginning stages, they made their way into many homes. As years went by the size and price of VCR’s decreased dramatically.

Movies began to be sold on VHS. This had a great impact on the movie theater business. Although ticket sales decreased slightly, a new department was born. Selling movies on VHS tape became a huge industry.

However, since the introduction of DVD’s, the VHS industry has greatly diminished. This digital system has outstanding picture and sound quality. Each DVD is compatible with stereo, Dolby surround, 5.1 surround sound, and Dolby Digital sound systems. Junior Alyx Moore said, “DVD’s are more enhanced; the picture is a sharper, and it sounds more realistic.”

Along with a much higher quality picture and sound, DVD offers an interactive menu that includes extra footage, scene selection, cast profiles, language selection and commentary by various crew involved in the movies.

Each movie has a unique feature of its own. Other DVD’s have uncut versions of film, featuring extra scenes and outtakes.

One of the most acclaimed benefits of DVD is the scene selection option. Each movie is split up into a certain number of chapters.

On the menu bar each chapter is named and illustrated so one can access any part of the movie they

April 10, 2002

Volume 37, Number 4

want at any time. A chapter button is also found on the selector.

Much like the VHS system, DVD includes a fast-forward or rewind button on the selector. The advantage of DVD is the option to fast forward or rewind two, four, six, or eight frames at a time, which cuts back on time used to find a certain scene.

Different languages and subtitles are featured on each movie.

Most DVD’s can be viewed in English, Spanish, and French.

Even though the benefits of DVD’s are high, the elevated prices may keep hungry consumers from diving into purchasing new DVD’s to add to their home theater collection.

The costs of DVD players are significantly higher than VHS players. DVD players start around $150.00, but players with advanced sound and picture can cost much more than the average price. The actual DVD disks alone cost around $20.00.

Many argue that the DVD system will in the future be used in every movie theater around the world. The systems for movie theaters are being developed, but now they are used very seldomly. These systems start at $5,000 and can cost up to $50,000.

In the future, these systems will become more economical and will be used in a wide range of theaters.

Since it is much cheaper to create a DVD disk than the film used in the theaters, the many expenses for movie companies will be cut back.

The price of shipping the movies to theaters will also dramatically decrease because of the size differential.

Movie reels would no longer have to be put together, saving time and labor costs. DVD’s (Digital Video Disks) are a look into the future and will eventually transform the movie industry.

The PATRIOT

Entertainment

14

Cassidy should earn posthumous fame Editor-in-Chief It is a sad but increasingly prevalent trend in the music business: a promising artist, edging incredibly close to fame and recognition, is unapologetically snatched from the world by the hands of death. Such was the case for brilliant musicians such as Jeff Buckley, Brad Nowell, and Nick Drake.

Although many of these musical martyrs enjoy posthumous appreciation, many slip through the cracks into obscurity, hidden from listeners eager to hear something new. These artists lie in suspended repose, waiting to be stumbled upon and ultimately celebrated. It seems that time and fate are able to dictate when late, great artists will emerge into the mainstream to gain welldeserved respect. Despite these harsh facts, it is safe to say that space should be reserved for under appreciated folk/blues songstress Eva Cassidy.

Eva Cassidy was born into an extremely musical and artistic family in 1963, growing up outside Washington, DC. Her father played bass and the cello in addition to being a sculptor. Her mother descended from a clan of talented artisans. Art and music played dually important roles in Cassidy’s life; she learned to draw in classic technique and play guitar before her tenth birthday.

As a child, Cassidy she possessed but was always performed with her family, singing reluctant to share. Although Cassidy complex harmonies and playing the managed to release several studio guitar in accompaniment with her albums, including two featuring her father’s bass and brother’s violin. original work entitled Eva by Heart Such creative roots produced a truly remarkable human being. Although Cassidy learned to perform early in life, she remained an incredibly shy recluse throughout her life. She always had to be encouraged to share her gifts with the world, even in the days leading up to her death of cancer in 1996.

Simply hearing her voice is enough to draw listeners to Eva Cassidy’s Cassidy’s fans still love her music even truly beautiful contributions after her tragic death at a young age. to numerous musical genres. Her voice is nearly and Time After Time, she gained the indescribable; a simultaneously silky most attention for her flawless and and smoky soprano, Cassidy’s innovative renditions of blues unforced intonations are strongly classics. Her unique interpretations reminiscent of legendary blues of standards such as “Blue Skies,” songbirds Sarah Vaughn and Bessie “Cheek to Cheek,” and “Fine & Smith.

Mellow” showcased her mastery of Many found it amazing that the effortless, improvisational style such a powerful and soulful voice personified by blues pioneers of could come from a petite, blonde- yesteryear. She also reinvented haired woman who felt more songs such as the Etta James classic comfortable sitting at home eating “At Last” to a homegrown acoustic Cheetos than belting out tunes guitar format, giving them a fresh onstage. Eva Cassidy was an new sound. enigma, a question whose answer lies Cassidy often performed at deep within the painstakingly crafted DC’s Blues Alley, an early 90’s songs of her brief life and career. breeding ground for the best talent Cassidy’s versatility as both in the metropolitan area. Cassidy a singer and a songwriter was a shed her usually reserved manner product of the innumerable talents when performing sassy roadhouse photo by: www.crosstownarts.com

by Andrew Lazor

classics such as “Take Me To The River” and “Stormy Monday.” Her true passion for performing outshined her introverted demeanor.

Often taking place in duets with notable blues man Chuck Brown, Cassidy truly made the genre her own.

Cassidy’s musical influence extended past the realms of rhythm and blues. She recorded jazz-infused versions of Negro spirituals such as “Wade In The Water” and “Way Beyond The Blue.” Her catalog of songs includes many covers, some of the most prominent being acoustic versions of Cyndi Lauper’s “Time After Time” and Sting’s “Fields of Gold.”

1995’s The Other Side was a compilation album Cassidy released with her friend and longtime musical partner Brown. The 1998 album Live At Blues Alley catches Cassidy in her element, live onstage at the club that embraced her as a true artist. It features Cassidy’s most famous work, a cover of “What a Wonderful World.” The song served as a sentimental sendoff to Cassidy; visibly succumbing to the grips of her disease, she performed it onstage for the last time at her own tribute concert, held two months before her death in November of 1996.

It is tragic that death would take such a promising talent at such an incredibly young age. Although Eva Cassidy is gone, her music serves as an eternal epitaph to her successes as both a performer and a person.

New television shows “Mac” it up

by John Vigilloti

Staff Writer

leaves them to Bernie and his wife Wanda. The “little devils,” Vanessa, Jordan, and Bryana, teach the comedian a thing or two about parenting. While Vanessa and Jordan may create some chaos, it is “baby girl” Bryana who generates

photo from www.fox.com

Rachel and Joey this, Chandler and Monica that. Will and Grace did this, and ER just did that.

No offense Phoebe, Will, or Anthony Edwards, but it’s time to progress forward. Viewers these days need something new.

Enter The Bernie Mac Show and That 80’s Show.

Fox gave Fox airs That 80’s Show, bringing hip hairstyles, The Original frilly athletic apparel, and comical cast members.

Kings of Comedy star Bernie Mac his own show airing the gray hairs on Uncle Bernie’s the first episode on November 14, head.

Mac, who also produces the 2001. Mac, who just finished working on Ocean’s 11, is the highest rossing show, splits his half-hour segment into two parts. A comical narrative comedian today.

The show’s plot is quite by Mac sometimes interrupts the unique. After his sister is no longer main part, or actual screenplay. Mac able to care for her children, she takes this time with the audience to

The PATRIOT

share his ideas and inconspicuously advertise appliances like the “George Foreman Grill.”

The show, which is “based on the comedy of Bernie Mac,” occasionally uses captions to point out things that the audience may not be educated enough to identify.

These captions, according to sophomore Justin Hamilton, “are quite useless actually.”

The other new airing brings back some perks from the 80’s.

After seeing the success that That 70’s Show brought Fox, creators Terry Turner, Mark Brazill, and Linda Wallem arranged to portray another decade in That 80’s Show. The show is set in a time where Ronald Reagan ruled America and ET was preparing to “phone home.”

Meanwhile, music visionary Corey attempts to deal with his father, sister, and a punk girl named Tuesday.

Since the series premiere on January 23, 2002, the show has seen much success. The show, like its predecessor, simply mocks its time period - everything from their cars to their slang to the hairstyles. The

Volume 37, Number 4

key element, however, is the music.

“They brought back classic 80’s tunes. It makes the show,” said sophomore Chris Ports. Everything from Michael Jackson to The GoGo’s will be featured during the show’s half-hour segments.

April 10, 2002

15

Sports

Baby O’s need to learn how to fly, soon It was once said that the sun never set on the British Empire. The same was once true for Cal Ripken and the Orioles. But now, nighttime has fallen on the Orioles’ Empire.

With the memorable and historic past season still fresh in the minds of Orioles’ fanatics, nothing will be able to surpass it. And with the O’s struggling to compete in the American League East, let alone for a world title, the fans should not expect much out of this fledgling team.

Over the past four seasons, the Orioles have been on a steady decline. After completing the 1997 season 98-64 and winning the AL East Championship, the ’98 season was a 180-degree turnaround to 7983. Mired at the mid-70’s level in wins for the next two years, the O’s hit an all-time low in 2001 with their third worst season ever of 63-98.

Cal Ripken and Brady Anderson, two staples of the Orioles for the past decade and beyond, will no longer be patrolling Camden Yards. Ripken batted .239 with 14 home runs and 68 RBI in 2001, but his presence was never great at the plate. Where his presence counted was on the field and in the clubhouse.

The much-publicized departure of Ripken last season led to a nationwide farewell tour. This year it will lead to a major decline in attendance at Oriole Park.

Anderson, who was erupt. Melvin Mora, who can also He has good speed but does released by the club in November, play shortstop, is looking to bust not get on base often enough to steal played most of his 14-year career in through for his third straight season. the 30-plus bases everyone Baltimore (he played 41 games for Luis Matos is coming off an injury- expected. Singleton’s defense is not Boston in 1988). His play at the plate riddled season in which he only at all questionable; he possesses the and in the outfield has declined due participated in 31 games. His ability to run down balls that appear to numerous strains and sprains exceptional speed is something that to be well over his head. during his last season in Baltimore. the Orioles have been lacking in the The pitching staff has some Brady, like crafty veterans like starters Cal, never put up Jason Johnson, Sidney huge numbers Ponson, Scott Erickson, and (aside from his 50 middle-reliever Buddy home run season in Groom. But this staff is 1996), but always barren in many muchprovided leadership needed positions. The lack for a sometimesof a quality fifth-starter mismanaged could be the direct result of clubhouse. For the a dismal off-season signing 2002 season, he period or the club’s turn will be roaming the towards youth.

Last outfield for the season’s September call-up Cleveland Indians.

Sean Douglass is the man W h i l e required to fill that role. leadership and The bullpen is also attendance may be overflowing with youth. on a downswing, Jorge Julio, B.J. Ryan, and excitement will not Middle reliever Buddy Groom winds up for delivery during a Calvin Maduro will all play be lost. Several spring training exhibition game. This year will mark his third key late-inning roles, and all young players are season with the Orioles pitching staff. are budding in the early looking fill up some stages of the careers. Willis seats and beef up Roberts will be asked to on experience. Outfielder and past few years. Tim Raines, Jr. may hurdle the obstacle that has plagued designated hitter Jay Gibbons will try also see some time in center. the O’s over the past few years: the to rebound from a season-ended But the O’s hopes in closer role. Roberts was the primary hand injury last year, while trying to centerfield lie in their newest prodigy: closer last season after Ryan avoid a second year slump. Although Chris Singleton. Acquired in an off- Kohlmeier fizzled out last year.

Gibbons only hit a measly .236, he season trade with the White Sox, The sun may have set for the paced the team with 15 home runs Singleton is likely to be the starter in Orioles of the 1980s and ‘90s, but in only 225 at-bats. center for the duration of the year. the alarm clock is buzzing, and dawn Centerfield is stockpiled with He batted .298 with 7 home runs and is breaking for the Orioles of the next undeveloped talent just waiting to 46 RBI and stole 12 bases. century. http://baltimore.orioles.mlb.com

by Ryan McCavitt Features Co-Editor

Lack of seniors may confound boy’s lax hopes

by Sam Marll Staff Writer At first glance, it looks as if Guy’s Lacrosse faces a bleak future.

Last year many experienced players and top scorers graduated. Now the team has only four seniors and the majority of the team consisting of freshmen and sophomores. However, the team is shaping up to be a wellrounded group of players who just might have a shot at the MIAA-B Conference Championship.

Last year, the team’s record was a respectable 12-6 overall accompanied by 7-4 in the conference. The team’s two new coaches, Mr. Keith Hinder and Mr. Matthew Blair, hope to improve upon some of the team’s faults and expand on its strengths.

Last season, the team had depended on a few key players to do most of the scoring, such as former senior Brad Haller.

Unfortunately, most of last year’s leading scorers have s i n c e graduated.

Now, seniors A n d r e w Thompson and Greg Dawson, along with juniors Drew Westervelt and Emmanuel Giannakis have stepped up to fill the gap, which will be important in “giving the offense more balance,” said Assistant Coach Matt Blair.

Defense had also shared a similar fate, with the team depending on a few individual players. After losing several starting defensemen, and sporting no senior defensemen, it looked as if there was going to be a lack of strong defense on the team as well. However, the juniors and sophomores of the team, led by senior goalie Brendan Smith, have fulfilled that role admirably.

Coach Blair also said, “We have a lot of returning juniors who are making significant contributions.”

Handling face-offs and

groundballs were serious problems last year, but the new team captains, Brendan Smith, Greg Dawson, Andrew Thompson, and Kevin Hook (all seniors), expect these skills to be improved over time with practice.

Last year, the team tied with Spalding for first place in the regular season but lost to Annapolis Christian in the semi-finals. Spalding is expected to be the team’s main rival, having won two championships in a row. They have several all-around excellent seniors which will provide quite a challenge for the JC team.

Across from the firehouse in the Bagel Works plaza

20% off any nail service

Nails Care Inc. (410) 420-8919 Walk-Ins Welcome

**$19.99 t anning special** tanning

Super bed-36 light bulbs one month unlimited (Must present coupon at time of service)

April 10, 2002

Volume 37, Number 4

The PATRIOT

Sports

16

Inaugural game produces fierce turnout “Klutzmaster” and “Buttertoes.”

The team capitalized on the height advantages of junior Jason Botzler and senior Kevin Lindemann, both of whom were hoisted high into the

photo courtesy of ChrisTrionfo

The second half of the contest began rather uneventfully, the only highlight being a minor injury to sophomore bruiser Zach Tscheulin. The CHC squad switched from the club jerseys they had worn in the first half to ostentatious cardinal red shirts, probably because their moms didn’t want them getting too dirty and catching a cold.

Quite possibly the Mr. Barker attempts to instruct junior Tom funniest mishap of the Scilipoti on the finer points of rugby. match took place two minutes into the period, when a completely air by teammates to intercept the ball uncontested CHC player tripped during throw-ins. However, CHC over himself and landed flat on his was able to connect on the second face, relinquishing the ball to an eager try of the afternoon late in the half, Donahue, who snatched up the rock putting a win just out of reach for with outstretched hands for a solid the Pats. Toland countered with a gain. The crowd did not hesitate to speedy sweep across the right side let the clumsy Cardinal hear about of the field, but it was not enough, as his screw-up, screaming demeaning Calvert Hall went on to win 14-0. catcalls and labeling him with The mood after the match creative nicknames such as was somber but accepting. Although

many players were disappointed with first effort.” He added that he and the outcome, they felt that the game his teammates “gave [their] all out was a good experience, win or lose. on the field.” Rob also expressed his “You learn by losing,” expressed gratitude to the many fans that bitter senior forward Dan Seeberger. showed up to support the team.

The squad displayed excellent levels Although the rugby team’s first game of maturity, identifying improvements ended up a loss, the heart and they needed to make for upcoming games.

“They just passed the ball better than we did. A lot of times, we had the ball, and we just went down instead of passing it off before we got tackled,” said senior team member Morgan L o w m a n .

Captain Rob Ford, who played with the tenacity Mike Hinder, a member of Calvert Hall’s rugby team, and emotion that gets absolutely rocked by 4 JC players. has gained him fame and respect on the fields and courts of JC, resilience the team displayed out on commented that “our first effort was the field all but ensures future excellent, considering that it was our successes. photo by Rose Walker

Continued from front page

Lead change, new blood proffer championship season

by Tom Scilipoti Staff Writer There is a new sheriff in town and his name is Bud. Mr. Bud Brueggemann has taken over of the men’s golf team with much approval from the JC golf community. Bud and his JC golfers look to clentch the MIAA “A” conference golf championship again this season.

Last year, the varsity golf team lost in the semi-finals of the MIAA playoffs to Mt. St. Joe, unsuccessfully defending their title.

This year, Coach Brueggemann will play a lead role in helping the team claim a league title. A task easier said than done.

Long time coach Mr. Henry Mountain, who guided the team to

2000’s MIAA “A” Conference Championship, is unable to coach this year due to health problems, and three key players from last year’s squad, BJ Muth, Ryan Grymes, and Dan Lynch, have graduated.

Though winning the title will be a tough task, the team remains optimistic. “We lost a lot of seniors from last year, but so did everybody around the league. We have a solid group of returning players and newcomers, and Coach Bud appears to be a real good coach.” said junior Matt Garono.

First year coach Bud Brueggemann, who is a scratch golfer (he shoots below par on average), has taken over and players have seemed to enjoy the change.

“Coach Bud is an excellent golfer and

really knows the game of golf. He’s doing a good job as coach and is a good guy,” said Garono.

Bud’s junior son Alex, the team’s top golfer, has a slightly different perspective. “I yell at him a lot on the course and sometimes call him names other than Dad/ Coach/Bud,” said Alex.

However, Alex admits that his dad is a good coach. “I yell at him a lot but that’s because I’m used to doing that at home. He does a good job teaching me and the other players golf because he knows what he’s talking about,” he said.

While Bud is the biggest change to the golf team, he’s not the only one. Senior Kaitlyn Johnson, junior JP Jendrek, and sophomores Matt Murphy and Derek Lynch are

all quality newcomers to the team.

“JP has a ferocious drive and gets a lot of deuce-deuce’s (birdies on par-3 holes).” said Alex. While the newcomers should play a big role in the team’s success, the returning players should make the difference.

Upperclassmen Alex Brueggemann, Brian Thomas, and Tom Watson, the team’s strongest players, will try to lead the team to victory.

Coach Bud is optimistic but not over-confident about the team’s prospects for success. “We should be real competitive,” said Bud. Hopefully the team’s new coach combined with experience from last year will produce another championship season.

Lady laxers looking to light up IAAM league

by Jen Degree Staff Writer With three seniors already committed to play at highly competitive colleges, the Girl’s Lacrosse team looks to have a promising season.

Led by senior captains Morgan Russell, Kerry Van Shura, and Allyson Sarigianis, the Girl’s Lacrosse team seems to be meshing well. These team captains have all been recruited and already signed letters of intent to play for respected college programs. This should help keep the seniors motivated throughout the season rather than falling into the trap of senioritis.

Their only drawbacks are

The PATRIOT

the addition of a new head coach and then loss of key senior players, such as Lindsey Syphard, Melissa Sands and Emily Grey.

A m y Carnaggio-Krukiel, last year’s head coach for JV, has assumed the role of Varsity head coach. She played lacrosse at Penn State, and she still plays for the Heroes lacrosse league.

The team seems to have a lot of confidence in their new coach. “A lot of juniors have played under Amy, so they are comfortable with her,” said assistant coach Fred Bradley.

In agreement, captain Allyson Sargianis said, “Since she’s an active player, she knows how the game is evolving.”

With tough competition from teams such as NDP, Maryvale, and Roland Park, the team is in for a competitive season.

However, their uncontested rival is Fallston. “Fallston is our rival in the county, but there is no way they will win,” said sophomore Emily Haller firmly.

In a recently published magazine, the team’s league, which is the IAAM division “A” league, was rated one of the most

Volume 37, Number 4

competitive lacrosse conferences in the country. However, Assistant Coach Fred Bradley is feeling optimistic about the season. “I think that several players are really stepping up to the plate this year,” said Bradley. “With the maturity, flexibility, and experience of the upperclassmen, as well as the amount of conditioning we are doing, I think we will really do well.”

Coach Bradley added, “Overall, we hope to improve our win-loss record from last year. It all depends though on how quickly and how well the team meshes.” If the team meshes and can win a few key games they may have a shot at the title.

April 10, 2002