The Patriot, December 2001, Issue 3 vol 37

The PATRIOT John Carr oll School Carroll

Volume 37, Number 3

December 18, 2001

Tech advances enliven school day

by Lou Perseghin News Co-Editor

students and parents can access them from their home computers.

Mr. Russell said that, although the prospect of putting grades online is not a reality quite yet, it is a “pretty cool vision.”

One teacher who is taking matters into her own hands is Spanish teacher Mrs. Michael.

Since December 4 th, 2000, Mrs. Michael has had her grade book online, updating it 2 or 3 times a week. She started it so students could consult their grades from home, and because she was tired of hearing ‘what’s my grade, can I see my grade, have you graded this yet, etc…’. Most of her students like the idea of having their grades placed online, especially the advanced classes. “The advanced students are more competitive, and they like the instant gratification of the online grade book,” said Mrs. Michael.

The website is code sensitive, and every students has their

photo by Lou Perseghin

photo by Lou Perseghin

With e-mail for the morning announcements and new computers in both computer labs, new technology is on the rise in the JC community. There are several new ideas being tossed around, but some of these ideas are quickly solidifying into reality.

One idea that will soon manifest itself throughout JC is a computer program, appropriately named Integrade, which was recently purchased by the school.

Integrade is a program designed to allow teachers to put their grades onto the computers that have recently been installed in every classroom.

Mr. Russell said that the main reason Mrs. Bowen helps a freshmen student with her research during class on the new library computers. for the purchase of the Integrade software over other products was program named Ipswitch to transfer website. She codes it by hand in that it “directly interfaces with her book to the geocities-hosted HTML, without the use of any web current grading and scheduling website. “The only complaint I have page editor programs. “I started it software.” It allows the teachers to received is that kids do not for my Spanish classes last year, so transfer the class lists want their parents to that if a student forgot their from the main scheduling access their grades,” said assignment, or if they were absent, program used by the Mrs. Michael.

The they would know what was expected school to their computer website, which has her e- of them the next day,” said Ms. grade book, saving them mail address placed on the Jones. “I also had a site on the the task of typing every page, does make it easier thinkwave.com website so students name for every class. for parents to in my computer science classes Mr. Russell said communicate directly with could check their grades, but nobody that installing the Mrs. Michael. “Some was using it so I shut it down.” software on every teachers are anxious. teacher’s computer is his Some teachers are wary of They think they’ll get making websites, or of putting their “main priority over the The recently-installed gateway computers sit ready for bombarded with angry e- grades online. The school has next couple weeks,” and student usage in both computer labs. mail,” comments Mrs. expressed interest in having teachers the software should be Michael. However, she make their own websites, but “they in full use by the own individualized number they use said that this has not been the case [JC] have not done anything to help beginning of the second semester.

Another issue that has been to access their grades. Mrs. Michael since her site has been live. people who don’t know anything.

Ms. Jones, computer science We [the teachers] need some help addressed by the school is making uses a shareware program to grades available online so that both calculate the grades, and another and health teacher, also has her own to get started,” said Mrs. Michael.

The P ATRIO T Inde x PA TRIOT Index Editorials

Entertainment

- Patriot-Pacificus rivalry comes to a head............pg. 2

- The Incredible Moses Leroy enchants listeners with his eclectic style......................pg. 9

News

Sports

- Modular schedule comes under question of the academic council.................pg. 3

- All county fall sports honorees.......................pg. 12

SE CTIONS SECTIONS Fe a tur es tures - Heroin usage on the rise, and not just in someone else’s neighborhood.......pg. 7

Editorials...............pg. 2-3 News...................pg. 4-6 Featur es...............pg. 7-10 tures...............pg.

Entertainment......pg.11-13 Sports................. pg 14-16

The P ATRIO T is available on the JC website at PA TRIOT http://techcord.loyola.edu December 18, 2001

Fighting persists in Afganistan

by Gene Etting Staff Writer Prior to September 11, very few Americans were aware of the civil war raging in Afghanistan, and even fewer knew who the different factions were. That has all changed, and Taliban and Northern Alliance have become household words. But, how did a group that only controlled 8% of Afghanistan, and, in the words of one retired special operations soldier, “couldn’t shoot their way out a paper bag,” gain control over two thirds of the country? The answer of course is four little words: “United States Air Force.” The images on Channel 1, of the Northern Alliance relaxing on the hills, watching American fighter-bombers devastate Taliban front lines are very familiar now.

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With the Taliban in retreat, and the Northern Alliance in firm control of over 80% of the country, many students wonder “Who is the Northern Alliance, and how are they different from the Taliban?”

The Northern Alliance is a military federation composed of many of the ethnic groups that make up Afghanistan. The Taliban are a group of religious fanatics composed of the dominant Pashtun tribe. The Northern Alliance was created after the Taliban came to power, and until recently was not a potent fighting force, controlling only 8% of Northern Afghanistan. The Taliban was a students group that managed to seize the reins of power after the Soviet Union was defeated in 1989. The

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Accelerating to Achieve and Driving to Dominate Patriot staff combines skills, becomes strong to overcome tyranny of Pacficius After losing many senior section editors, we were not expected to do well this season.

Instead, we showed everyone that we could successfully combat the evil actions of the The Pacificus.

Everyone on the team works very hard and is a leader in their individual positions.

Each and every day, we play to “Kill ‘Em!”

photo by Lou Perseghin

report has proved that the yearbook around, eat bagels, and decorate their Operation Jungle Juice was ready to is developing a devious plan to room with chili pepper Christmas rock. At approximately 1:45 in the brainwash all John Carroll students, lights, even more than they do now. afternoon, junior News Co-Editor It makes me nauseous just Joel Wienholt took action; wearing a programming them to willingly agree thinking about giant wooden Patriot sign around his to appear in it.

As neck (gotta represent!) and a rubber fabricated stalwarts of monster mask to shield his true pictures, l i t e r a r y identity, Joel infiltrated enemy lines constantly integrity, The and snagged the jug. He ran at top make lists of Patriot staff speed next door to the Patriot room, people’s feels that it is where we celebrated our victory. favorite movies Then we realized something: our duty to do ( a l w a y s in order to ensure that the Pacificus everything in including our power to remained powerless, we would have Dazed and stop this to dispose of this paltry punch. And Confused, of dastardly plan fast. Joel immediately volunteered course) and Ogling over their newly acquired jug of Fruit Juicy Red Hawaiian Punch, Patriot from taking to do the chugging honors, and begin all staffers Andrew Lazor, Joel Wienholt, proceeded to drink a fairly large place. sentences with and Ryan McCavitt celebrate their latest amount. He eventually stopped and H o w p a r t i c i p i a l - Andrew Lazor, Editor-in-Chief act of injustice against The Pacificus. to we plan to collapsed to the ground, clutching his phrases. If the Stealing the yearbook’s jungle juice has The Hatfields and the plan were to been a major factor in the newspaper foil their evil stomach in pain and screaming that staff’s overall success.

McCoys.

Duke and UNC. succeed, it plottings, you it was the most disgusting thing he Superman and Lex Luther. The would mean ask? Simple. had ever done. We were at a loss Patriot and The Pacificus. Though total global (or at least school-wide) By stealing their drinks. It is a for words.

Several questions arose: the last of these epic rivalries may domination for these ungodly succubi, proven scientific fact that evil beings be somewhat unfamiliar to you, the for they would have to do absolutely cannot operate when thirsty. We Was Joel okay? And, more loyal Patriot reader, I feel that it is no work. knew what we had to do. In the past importantly, who was going to my duty as Editor-in-Chief to inform The freshly brainwashed few months, we have bravely carried finish chugging the Jungle Juice? you of this epic battle for literary students, unlawfully transformed into out three well-planned strikes on the Luckily, junior Features Co-Editor domination, being fought each day in mindless yearbook drones, would do yearbook room. The first two times Ryan McCavitt’s little brother Grady the halls of your own school. all the grunt work for the Pacificus, were covert, undercover missions; came into the room and said that he The beginning of the 2001- writing creative alliterative titles such familiarizing ourselves with enemy would be more than happy to help.

2002 school year brought with it as “Dodging to Destroy” and ground was our primary objective. He finished the remainder of the many daunting tasks for the talented “Pyramids to Pep Rallies” for use in Our secondary objective was to get bottle in a matter of seconds, wowing everyone in the room. Grady then students of the Patriot staff: planning the sports sections, as well as taking candy, but that’s not important. new issues, hiring fresh and eager numerous pictures of girls looking into Using the latest espionage spent the rest of the day proclaiming staff writers, and combating the evil microscopes. Yearbook staffers, tactics, we slyly entered into the room the wonders of his “iron gut,” and malevolent advances of the suddenly blessed with an extremely and asked Pacificus Editor-in-Chief appointing himself “newspaper juice Pacificus. A recent investigative large amount of free time, would sit Valerie Beach if we could have some chugging contest MVP.” We all plan M&Ms. She smiled and said that she to pitch in and get him a plump would be happy to give us M&Ms. congratulatory honey-glazed ham.

But we knew that, in her twisted evil- He deserves it. Grady is the man.

John Carroll School W e genius mind, 703 Churchville Road, Bel Air, MD 21014 thought we she was Volume 37, Number 3, December 18, 2001 had won. But plotting we were against us; Editor-in-Chief....................................................Andrew Lazor wrong. The simply trying Managing Editor..................... .........................Colleen O’Brien next school to win our Opinions Editor.....................................................Tara Hofherr day, we saw trust by News Co-Editor................................................Louis Perseghin Pacificus offering News Co-Editor....................................................Joel Wienholt staffers once confectionary Features Co-Editor...........................................Jacki Kosdemba again sipping treats, then Features Co-Editor.............................................Ryan McCavitt upon their planning to Entertainment Co-Editor.......................................Sara Clafferty evil sizurp. stab us in the Entertainment Co-Editor........................................Sara Ruzicka Using strength and determination, senior We had not back when Sports Co-Editor...................................................Owen Jordan News Co-Editor Lou Perseghin snags the ball taken into we least from an opponent. Defense is a crucial part Sports Co-Editor..........................................Mary Kate Sullivan consideration expected it! of the Patriot’s success.

Photography Co-Editor..........................................Miyako Igari the possibility Ha! We are Photography Co-Editor..................................Rose Ellen Walker of them going to the Safeway and not so easily duped, Beach…we Business Co-Manager......................................Chiara Fortunato know your game all too well! Several exchanging their evil money for a Business Co-Manager..................................................CJ Neff days passed, and we worked fresh new batch of Jungle Juice.

Moderator..............................................................Mr. Ionescu feverishly to come up with a plan of Blast! Although the events of Staff: Valerie Beach, Adam Bell, Katie Chlada, Mike Critzer, Jenny attack. If we were to win this war, November 11 were a major victory DeGree, Lauren Dunn, Gene Etting, Rosalie Gant, Matt Garono, Jon we had to take out their power in the battle against literary tyranny, Gentri, Mairead Gordon, Amy Graul, Emmanuel Hapsis, Sarah Herman, source: a giant jug of Fruit Juicy Red the war is far from over. The future Ryan Hofherr, Kate Keegan, Kevin Korczynski, Ryan Kramer, Laurie Hawaiian Punch inside the yearbook of the John Carroll community is in Krysiak, Emily Lyles, Sam Marell, Grace Matelli, Chris O’Reilly, Craig minifridge. But how? Patriot editors jeopardy. Although many things are Parsons, Michele Renaud, Stephanie Rew, Amanda Rok, Julie Ross, Tom quickly became military tacticians, uncertain at this time, I can promise Scilipoti, Jennifer Smith, Bobby Spero, Maygan Switalski, John throwing out crazy and often you one thing: I speak for the entire Vigliotti, Megan Whiteleather harebrained strategies. We finally Patriot staff when I say we will fight The Patriot is a publication of the students of John Carroll School. decided on a plan of action: go into this battle to the bitter end. Or at The views and opinions expressed in The Patriot are not necesleast until I graduate...then it’s the yearbook room and take it. sarily the views and opinion of the Board or Administration of John November 11, 2001, John someone else’s problem.

Carroll School. The editorial staff invites and greatly appreciates Carroll’s Open House: D-DAY. comments from readers on any issue. photo by Andrew Lazor

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Volume 37, Number 3

December 18, 2001

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Your Idea Here I am Tara Hofherr, a junior at John Carroll. This is my new column. You have most likely seen me around. I am starting something brand new for The Patriot...I hope it will be successful. That success is based on your participation. This is your column: a way for you to voice your opinions on problems you have with the school, your family, you friends, or anything else of concern. You all have so many ideas and opinions, and I want to help you publicly express them. I welcome all comments, concerns, and criticisms. You can either write your thoughts for me to elaborate upon, or just submit a piece as is. Address everything to me, Tara. I am setting up a box in the guidance hallway for all your submissions. Please write me! All I ask is that you submit your name with your letter, even if you are requesting anonymity.

There is only problem with my column so far. It has no name. So I am holding a contest, open to all students, to give it one. Submit your suggestions into my box. Please include your name, grade level, and homeroom. The winner will receive a $25 gift certificate to Chili’s and the amazing joy of knowing you named a column in The Patriot, a classy distinction indeed. I encourage you to start writing me letters as soon as possible. Until next issue!

The PATRIOT Classifieds Billy Blanks- Complete Set of TaeBo Total Body Videos - $25 Call 410-836-3899 Playstation, two controllers, gun, thirteen games. Very good condition. $250. Call Matt Garono if interested.

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Ice hockey gear for boys ages 10-12. Pants, gloves, helmet, AB WORKS and shoulder

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Movie Posters Call 410-836-3899 for sale. A wide Easton C-Core Baseassortment of movies. $5 per ball bat. Barely used. poster. Call Jun- Very good condition. ior Joel $60 or best offer.

Wienholt.

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Concerned student points out kink in morning lateness policy Are all latenesses really the same? No. There is a definite difference between a person waking up late and a person having to take a twenty minute driving detour because of an accident or road work. There should be some way to determine when it is physically outside of a student’s power to get to school on time. And what is there for us to do for proof? I have never seen any cops of construction workers giving out signed passes for the attendance office. This tricky situation leaves students with only two options: race to school, risking an accident or ticket, and possibly being late, or driving legally and definitely being late. The lateness policy should be designed to accomodate these uncontrollable factors.

Kyle Leppert, Class of 2003

Sister John gives thanks to school community Dear JC Family, My eternal gratitude for 13 years of service to the John Carroll community is only surpassed by the joy of being among you. We have bonded through great love, deep friendships, fabulous cooperation, incredible trust and delightful laughter. We have shared sorrows and heartbreaks, too.

The members of the administration, faculty, secretarial, clerical, kitchen and maintenance staffs filled my life with kindnesses, gracious compassion and patient listening. The students through the years have brightened my life in so many ways.

Thank you for your love, prayers and many notes, words and gifts through the years. Be assured of my prayers and those of the entire community of Sisters of Saint Joseph always. May each of you come to know your heart’s desire.

‘Til merrily we meet again, Sister John Bernadine

Military surplus, clothing, boots, urban gear...want to sell it? Contact Junior Gene Etting. Make sure you have an idea of the price for which you will be selling it.

Bright Oaks Pediatric Center 2111 Laurel Bush Road Bel Air, MD 21015 (410) 569-3300

P.S. The autographed baseball from Mr. Ward and his team and the football from of team of ’02 and Coach Perry are cherished mementos.

December 18, 2001

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Modular schedule put into question Some of John Carroll’s students may have heard about the possibility of change in the modular schedule. While it is true that the academic council has discussed the idea of revising the mod system, nothing concrete is in place. When approached with the subject, Principal Mr. Barker was surprised and commented that, “the John Carroll rumor mill is not to be underestimated.”

The modular schedule used at John Carroll has been in place since the school’s founding in 1964.

The academic council is examining the validity of the 37 year-old system to determine if the modular schedule allows for the best and most efficient use of time. The question being asked is: does the mod schedule meet the needs of the students, and is the school administrations’ desire for the time spent in school to be beneficial to students being realized? Also there has been a concern about student’s free time; do they have too

photo by Joel Wienholt

by Rosalie Gant Staff Writer

Mod 1

Mod 7

Junior Brian Vierheller has the first seven mods off on Fridays. During his first mod off he enjoys eating breakfast, but on his last mod off he is so tired and bored he puts his head down.

little or too much? Another point for consideration is: does the mod schedule provide adequate time for college classes? This is a concern for students who are taking AP classes that meet 5 days a week. These classes significantly cut into free time, making it harder for AP students to meet their needs while

still striving to better themselves academically in challenging classes and possibly earning college credits.

Some of the options the academic council has discussed are making mods longer or shorter, and the possibility of starting the school day earlier or ending the school day later. Mr. Barker stated that the

academic council is simply throwing out some ideas on how to make the mod schedule more efficient to make sure that students are getting the “best use of [their] time.” Mr. Barker wanted to assure students that any changes that may be made are being carefully considered and will only be instated after everyone concerned is certain that the new schedule would be beneficial to JC students. Mr. Barker stressed how careful the academic council would be in making any changes and said that after the plan is solidified, the new mod schedule would take about a year and a half to implement. This is so that any problems with the schedule itself or in the adjusting of it could be averted.

John Carroll’s mod system may be confusing at first, but for the students who have mastered it, change in this intricate system may be frightening, but students have nothing to fear for the moment. The changes being discussed are not definite, but only ideas being brought up for discussion.

Open House attracts prospective students and brochures, update all our information and buy all the materials,” explains Mrs. Bruggemann. The annual event is an

photo by Hillary Coleman

Every year our school has an Open House, an opportunity for prospective students to get a look at the school.

Most students consider it as a chance to get a few service hours and a Monday off of school.

But in fact it is actually an important event for the school and is a process that begins back in September, and involves a lot of preparation and organization.

Mrs. Mountain and Mrs. Bruggemann organize the Open House along with the faculty, the guidance department, intern Kellen Jendrek, and Alumni/Past Parent Junior Geoffrey Lawhorne teaches a prospective Mary Terziu. “Open student a lab in the chemistry room.

House is a process that begins in September. It involves much preparation and opportunity to show our school, and organization; we have to order folders each department at its best. Each

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classroom is full of displays, bulletins, and student work.

Each sport has a table in the gym, and club tables are l o c a t e d everywhere from the main hallway into the academic wing.

Teachers, students, and Senior Katie Whelehan shows a prospective student the faculty must be benefit of the computers in the language lab when present for all studying a foreign language. this to run smoothly.

Students serve s tour guides, while years, partly because of the larger teachers provide a knowledge and number of people who have attended understanding to visitors about their the open house and decided to apply. classes and departments. Amy With the hard work and preparation Rosario, who worked at the Religion for this year’s Open House, it was table, thinks that prospective students, bound to have a large turnout. Mrs. “learned a lot about the school and Brueggemann said, “More then 400 got a chance to see all aspects of prospective students attended.” This only includes the people who filled it.”

Every year, a growing out information cards. With a planned number of interested middle school freshman class of just over 200 students attend the JC Open House. students, there is a large amount of Getting accepted into JC has become competition to become a part of the increasingly more difficult in recent class of 2006.

Volume 37, Number 3

photo by Hillary Coleman

by Amanda Rok Staff Writer

December 18, 2001

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Lateness policy due for renovation launch themselves towards the closing classroom doors.

The lateness policy is the concern of many students.

A typical day in the life of a John Carroll student starts with the “Currently, the lateness policy is if uniform and breakfast. Then, the you are late four times in a semester, gears in the mind shift to the next you receive a major detention. If you topic at hand: lateness. The hustle are late eight times in a semester, you and bustle of the morning starts receive two additional detentions and before a student even gets in the car. a call is placed to your parents. They Parents and students alike are put discuss the situation and try to under a lot of pressure to arrive on resolve it. For every additional lateness after the time and phone call is made, ready for the he traffic to get you receive an day. additional detention.

Upon into school is riThis policy stands arriving at diculous. Half of the until the last day of s c h o o l , time I’m at school on the first semester,” students meet time but can’t get into Mr. Piercy explains. their friends “The first day of the on the way to the parking lot. It’s second semester, their lockers, crazy to get a detenstudents start with a in the tion under these conclean slate. cafeteria, or in However, the days ditions.” the main -Brian Vierheller are still recorded on hallway. your permanent Books are record and on your gathered and report card.” classrooms are Junior Brian Vierheller entered. The three-minute bell sounds, sending panic through the complains,” The traffic to get into numerous students still lingering in the school is ridiculous. Half of the time hallways or on the grounds. A myriad I’m at the school on time but can’t of students question their peers if that get into the parking lot. It’s absurd was the 8:00 bell, worried that they to get a detention for being late under are late. As people filter into the these circumstances.”

There are certain occasions classrooms and get settled, the clock ticks closer to the top of the hour. where a student is not marked late.

As the final seconds tick off the These instances include trips to the clock, the bell rings. Quickly doctor, dentist, or court office following, the pounding of feet echoes appearances. These are excused through the hallways as students latenesses and do not count against

by Jennifer Smith Staff Writer

photo by Joel Wienholt

T

Junior Jake Barrett waits in line after the morning rush for his turn to get a late slip from Mrs. Gauthier.

your permanent record.

There was a rumor going around that the policy was changing.

However, that is not the case. The only thing that was discussed was if there was any distinction between coming in at 8:30 and 10:30, of which, there is none.

Some people may not consider this fair, but it is better than

some Harford County schools.

“Havre de Grace does not accept any excuses and gives you a detention for one lateness,” explains Sophomore Virgilia Garland. “If you are late several times at Harford Tech, you won’t be able to graduate.

If you don’t punish the students that are late, then no one will show up on time for anything.”

The enemy of our enemies is our friend Cont. from front page Taliban also is closely associated with Osama bin Laden’s terrorist group Al-Qaeda. Bin Laden is now known to be hiding in Afghanistan, and a unit of US Marines is hunting for him currently.

This is the reason that America is supporting the Northern Alliance over the Taliban. If the Taliban had given bin Laden to the US, there would probably be no war in Afghanistan right now. The media and government have claimed that the Northern Alliance is the answer to the problems that have plagued Afghanistan constantly for the past twenty years: hunger, oppression, and war.

There is only one problem: the Northern Alliance is no different from the Taliban. They are very religious, though differing from the Taliban in some respects. They demand that women must remain veiled, but they are not required to wear the heavy and oppressive burka, as under the Taliban rule. Music is also allowed, as are electronics and televisions.

December 18, 2001

While the Taliban may or may not grow heroin, (they publicly denounce its growth, but there are many doubts), the Northern Alliance publicly grows and sells heroin, which is where it receives much of its funding.

The opposition forces in Afghanistan are very similar to the opposition forces in Kosovo, the Kosovo Liberation Army (KLA).

Both groups are Muslim guerrillas.

Both groups were also touted by the media and government as being a noble army struggling against repressive governments. The media and government also conveniently overlook the facts about both groups’ roles in drug trafficking, and that in both instances, neither group is much better than the group they are replacing.

This does not mean that the Northern Alliance is the Taliban, as there have been many promising developments. Currently underway in Bonn, Germany, are talks laying the groundwork for a broad based democratic government, under which no one faction would have more power than the others.

The groups are still debating whether or not to allow current Taliban leadership to participate in the post – Taliban government.

Also, to stop support of the Northern Alliance now would be an insult to our soldiers. It is pointless and wasteful to send our troops into battle into a country where there are already soldiers ready, willing, and able to fight. Rather than withdraw support for the Northern Alliance, America should continue to help them to win the ground war with air support. This was shown to be very effective during the Mazar e-Sharif prison revolt, where captured Taliban fighters rose up and attacked the Northern Alliance troops stationed there. The Air Force pounded it from the air, while the Northern Alliance hit it from the ground. This strategy was very effective, resulting in the death of only one American, CIA agent and former Marine, Mike Spann.

Now, however, Marines from the 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit may be used in conjunction with Northern Alliance troops to take the final Taliban stronghold of Kandahar.

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This would be significant, as the battle would involve vicious house-to house fighting, most likely resulting in high casualties for the Marines. This does not seem to affect the gung–ho spirit of the US military’s elite fighting force. They say that they are fully prepared to do whatever it takes to take Kandahar and avenge the victim’s of September 11.

When the war in Afghanistan is completed, the State Department may “Marshall Plan” Afghanistan. This refers to the plan of then – Secretary of State Marshall’s plan to rebuild Germany after World War Two. This placed the West German people in our gratitude, and made them some of our greatest allies during the Cold War. If we instituted the same type of plan in Afghanistan, it would prevent the growth of any more cancerous organizations similar to AlQaeda, and thus make it a battle won in the War On Terrorism. After America helped the Afghan mujihadeen defeat the Soviets, we just left. This contributed much support to the Al - Qaeda terror network.

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N e w s * B r i e f s

Gr ading S ystem a ver ages lo w “B” Grading Sy av erages low The JC administration is analyzing the grading system of the school. They are reviewing student report cards, as well as overall averages to determine whether or not the grading system is valid. The grade average of all the students at JC is about a low “B,” and the administration is questioning if the school is too easy and if it is living up to its reputation as a college preparatory school. Also, the administration bought surveys from an organization to submit to students and faculty to try to discover the “climate” of the school.

JC clubs rre each out tto o nur sing home nursing Outreach and the Respect Life club visited the Mariner Health Nursing Home on Macphail Road on December 14th.

Students and teachers sang Christmas Carols and delivered Christmas cards to the residents. Students received service hours for the visit, and all the residents were grateful for the club’s participation. Outreach and the Respect Life club are considering visiting the Mariner Health Nursing Home monthly.

Building camp aign c on tinues tto o gr ow campaign con ontinues gro The Building on Excellence-Phase II is continuing to grow.

Money is flowing in, and the architectural drawings have been completed. The school is expected to raise a majority of the funding for the project from the “Evening with Lou Holtz.” Soon people will be able to donate money online, which will help the project grow, hopefully propelling the groundbreaking to begin building the future.

Grinch steals Christmas Dance Only nine tickets were sold throughout the entire school for the since-canceled Christmas dance. One senior commented that the dance planning was “poorly and inconsistently executed.”

Wir eless in onnec tion se Wireless intterne ernett c connec onnection sett aside The wireless internet connection, reported in the previous issue of The Patriot, will not become a reality, at least this year. The connection was going to be funded by the town of Bel Air, but the town has not taken any steps to help, so the project will remain idle until such time that the town will provide funding.

Meteors illuminate sky: Leonid shower best in decades

by Joel Wienholt News Co-Editor It’s not every night that luminous balls of fire and trailing smoke can be seen easily in the sky.

Early Sunday morning, on November 16th, a radiant and dazzling meteor shower transpired.

Critics have called this Leonid meteor shower the best in decades and the best for years to come.

Although the meteorites ranged in size from dust grains to small pebbles, they created brilliant explosions to light up the sky.

Since most of the meteorites burned up completely before reaching earth, they created no threat to people or objects on earth. However, some satellites and space stations were in danger. Even though there was a small chance these space objects were in danger of being hit and slightly damaged, thankfully none suffered any damage.

This incredible shower was visible everywhere in North America, but most visible in the northwest. At its peak hour of 5am, the shooting stars were streaming

down at a rate of 70 per minute, or 4,200 an hour.

Meteor showers occur when the earth passes close to a comet’s orbit, colliding with the comet’s old dust trails. This process creates magnificent shooting stars, as the clumps strike the Earth’s upper atmosphere and send flashing streaks of light across the sky amazing everyone.

Much like weathermen predict the weather, scientists predict the quality of the meteor showers.

Each prediction is different and varies by the location of the scientists. Although most scientists predicted this year’s Leonid shower to be magnificent, some disagreed. Robert Crooke, of NASA Ames’ Research Center predicted that the meteor shower would provide an average of one meteorite per second.

Still many have said that this shower will be the best decades because of its high level of visibility and its amazingly high average of 4,200 meteors per hour. Donald Yeomans, head of NASA’s Near Earth Object program said, “This could be the last opportunity to watch an impressive meteor shower in the dark for decades to come.”

This light pole was recently knocked over by a delivery truck in front of the school. The truck proceeded to drive away, leaving the cost for the damages in JC’s lap.

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December 18, 2001

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Heroin creeps into suburban culture the drug. Recently there has been a shift in the pattern of heroin abuse from injecting to snorting or smoking In 1998, over 4,000 it. In many areas, including Chicago Americans were killed by heroin, and and New York, snorting heroin has since 1991 the number of emergency become the most common way of situations in hospitals involving heroin receiving the drug. This method is just has doubled. It is both a social and as lethal as injecting, but the onset of economic problem, costing the euphoria is more delayed, sometimes government billions of dollars each taking up to fifteen minutes to begin. year in anti-drug and rehab Smoking and snorting has also programs. increased the popularity of heroin Heroin is a highly addictive abuse. These are painless ways of illegal drug, and is often lethal. Once in taking the drug, whilst still getting in the human body, it stimulates the the “rush”. nervous system, releasing feelings of Perhaps the scariest factor euphoria, followed by drowsiness and to consider when dealing with heroin nausea. Heroin slows down the is the spread of disease. By using an cardiac and breathing functions, and unclean needle, many diseases can be passed from one person to the next, including HIV and hepatitis A,B or C strain. In fact, one third of all HIV positive Americans and more than half of the hepatitis C strain cases in the nation are due to drug injection. These diseases can be fatal to the person who has contracted them, and the diseases can be both hereditarily and sexually transmitted. Abusing heroin when pregnant can also lead to miscarriages, birth defects, and premature delivery.

The sooner a person is treated for heroin abuse, the more chance they have of recovery.

Different drugs can be administered to control the heroin cravings, and often psychological Heroin in brown powder form (top) and or behavioral therapy is used to in pure white powder form (bottom). help the subject shy away from abusing heroin again in the future. this is what often leads to death. In Today heroin is glamorized the long run, continued use of heroin in movies, or in the deaths of can cause collapsed veins, bacterial musicians such as Hillel Slovak or or infectious diseases, infection of the Brad Nowell. It is becoming more heart’s lining, and arthritis. If pure on the streets and can be found somebody becomes addicted to for less money than in the past. Its heroin, they need frequent intakes of the drug, or they get withdrawal symptoms which can include restlessness, depression and violence.

Heroin is the most common of the opiate drugs, and is derived from morphine, which is a natural substance found in the seed pods of many varieties of the poppy plant. It can be found primarily in two forms: as a white or brown powder, or as a thick sticky black substance known as “black tar heroin”. While it can be found in its pure state, most of the time heroin is “cut” with various other drugs, or is mixed with sugar, starch, or powdered milk before it Heroin is a product of the opium poppy plant’s pod, shown above. is sold. Frequently, however, there are poisons mixed with the heroin which drastically increase the risk of an overdose or death. rise in popularity among teenagers In the past, the most has been greater in recent years than common way of getting the heroin ever before, so it is necessary that into the body was to inject it into a people learn and understand the vein. This method brings on the scientific facts surrounding the euphoric feeling within seconds, and subject. the user instantly feels the effect of www.streetdrugs.com

www.streetdrugs.com

by Chris O’Reilly Staff Writer

December 18, 2001

Heroin touches close to home Student speaks vividly of drug experimentation The following is an interview conducted by The Patriot staff with a JC student. The student wishes to remain anonymous. He describes his experiences with heroin in detail, including a harrowing overdose incident Q: What motivated you to try it?

A: Mainly curiosity. The fact that I want to try everything once.

Q: How easy was it to find?

A: Incredibly easy. I could have it delivered to my house in minutes. If you have five dollars, you can get high.

Q: Describe your first experience with the drug.

A: The greatest bodily feeling I’ve ever had. Immediately, within minutes, I knew. It hit me like a freight train. My limbs felt like they were dead.

It felt great though. It made my whole body feel so good. It felt like I was melting.

Q: Have you ever overdosed? If so, describe your experience.

A: [Once] I blew -snorted- three huge lines. At first I didn’t know, I just felt comatose. Then, I knew there was something wrong with the stuff.

It felt like it was eating the inside of my face. I went to lie down. I felt restless but at the same time wonderful, and I started losing consciousness.

My head hurt. I felt like I wanted to sleep. In my head, I knew I wasn’t breathing, but I didn’t care.

Q: Do you feel as though it’s a problem of the rise amongst high school kids?

A: Every time I run into one of my old friends from middle school, all the “outcast” kids, they’ve all become dopers. It’s becoming the drug of outcasts.

The student also revealed that he had snorted/smoked pure heroin on several occasions, even past his overdose. He expressed that snorting pure heroin provided him with a “comfort of mind,” because no one really knows what “those guys in the city” put in their stuff.

The student’s overdose experience lasted 20 to 30 minutes. After the overdose, the student said a friend of his shook him, trying to wake him up and get him to start breathing again. “I went for a walk outside and tried to smoke a cigarette to calm myself.” he recalled.

“Then I just threw up green vomit. I felt like I had gone through hell.

It opened my eyes to just how dangerous it can be.”

Heroin Street Slang

Heroin brand names around the nation: Columbia,SC

Playboy, skull-to-skull, Mercedes, crossbones

New York, NY

Aries, HBO, payday, iceburg, blackout, Desert Storm, double jeopardy, red bag, faceoff, highenergy,attraction, slammin, gladiator, the power, side affects, millennium 2000, white angel, limit, hot shot, Pokemon, king of New York, Viagra, cobra, final notice, psycho, TommyHilfiger, cocheese, mankind, the heap, embryo, beyond 2000, DVD, straight to the head, smack down, Power Ranger, Goya, top choice, west side, hit me off, Genesis, heat, warning, one way, passion, rough rider, top of the ninth, K9, excellent, spider, eternity, Gatorade, flying high, tyson,

sniper, iceberg, Lexus, drama, 24 hours

Philadelphia,PA Poison, pure hell, suicide, dead calm, murder, homicide, hell, diabolle, VZ, spice girl, turbo, one+done, black demon, hate monger,ex-con, death row, demolition, murder one, hard to kill, died in peace, lethal injection, Old Navy Portland, ME

Red eagle, dolphin, black eagle, batman

Washington, DC Jerry Springer, orange line, brown tape, 747, bluebag, yellow bag, 2000

Volume 37, Number 3

The PATRIOT

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Customs give reverence to Christmas

By Craig Parsons Staff Writer Christians are a remarkably diverse group of people, comprising thousands of cultural groups, from the desert Syriacs, and the wealthy elite of Europe’s richest nations, to the villagers of Eastern Europe and the islanders of the Pacific. Among people so diverse, even common religious observances are expressed very differently. United only by the Mass in various forms and a belief in the divinity of Christ, many of the world’s Christians have developed idiosyncratic ways of expressing their faith at Christmas.

In Christianity’s ancient heartland, around Antioch, the Syriacs of Turkey and Syria maintain traditions over a millennium old. The Syriac Rite places unusual importance on the Magi; Christmas Mass is structured around not only the Eucharist, but a unique ceremony in which vine stems are burned on the altar to warm the Magi, believed to visit every year.

According to a legend documented as far back as the fifth century, the youngest of the three camels bearing the Magi fell in exhaustion as it reached Bethlehem. It seemed on the verge of death, but the Christ child blessed the animal for its devotion, granting it immortality. Even today, Syriac children set out wheat and water on the eve of the New Year for the mythical camel – often a formidable challenge in the agriculturally poor, drought-ridden region along the Turkish-Syrian border.

France celebrates Christmas in keeping with its position as a country further from Christianity’s ancient roots but closer to its medieval zenith. Celebrations in Paris and Lyons can be fantastically elaborate, while festivities in rural areas tend to be more modest. Throughout France, the focal point of the Christmas season is the midnight mass, varying in structure but always including the burning of candles, the singing of carols, the ringing of bells, and the prominent display of the crèche, or nativity scene. Most homes also display crèches of their own; in the south, santons, or village figures, are added alongside the traditional arrangement of Holy Family and Magi.

Despite the significance of these symbols, many of the French consider the réveillon, or extended family Christmas dinner, to be considerably more important. The meal often stretches from the end of the mass to well after dawn and includes blood sausage – consumption measured in kilometers by newspapers – and roast goose, a throwback to the Occitan legend that a cackling goose greeted the Magi’s arrival in Bethlehem. Many rural areas add local traditions to these universal celebrations. In Averngne, in central France, December 24 is designated the fête des bergers, or “feast of the shepherds.” Farmers dressed in Auvergnat costume place a lamb in a two-wheeled wagon generously decorated with garlands, flowers, and candles, which a

festooned ram draws through village streets and into the church. Once inside, the cart is paraded three times around the nave before a shepherd presents the lamb to the priest, who raises it above the altar in a powerful visual symbol of sacrifice.

Countries with richer preChristian traditions continue to hold onto vestiges of paganism in their Christmas celebrations. In the mountains of Thrace, on the GrecoBulgarian border, masqueraders parade through the streets wearing antlers, animal skins, and noisy bells.

These figures are known as kallikantzaroi in Greece and kukeri in Bulgaria, and are thought to have originated in winter solstice rites among the ancient Thracians to ward off evil spirits at the unluckiest time of the year. Likewise, pagan traditions continue in Romania, most notably in the baffling ceremony of the turte. On December 23, Romanian housewives prepare turte, a phyllo pastry cake drenched in honey and walnuts. After having removed it from the oven, the housewife is chased out of the house by her axe-wielding husband. He goes around the property threatening to cut down each tree in turn, claiming each is useless because it is past the point of bearing fruit. The wife offers token resistance and the husband, pretending to be convinced, lays down his axe for another year.

Far from European civilization, the Christians in the Marshall Islands celebrate Christians

in a highly unconventional manner.

The Stewardship Council of the archipelago’s United Church of Christ conceals a large decorated tree inside a massive, hollow wooden cross. As the congregation gathers, singing carols and hymns, the cross opens and the tree moves forward. Islanders set off firecrackers, but their voices die down as the tree reenters the cross. When the congregation has finished singing, the sides of the cross split and the tree remains standing in a symbol suggesting the birth, death, and resurrection of Christ. The tree ceremony is followed by wild celebrations and the distinctly Marshallese jebta, in which bands of musicians sing and dance in competition with one another long into the night.

From the camel-feeding of the Syriacs to the réveillons of the French, from the unsuspecting housewives of Romania to the jebta of the Marshall Islands, Christmas celebrations are as diverse as the cultures from which they come.

However, regardless of the outward natures of these celebrations, they all serve a crucial purpose: in a world increasingly slipping into materialism and ennui, a reinforcement of identity, stability, and community through faith.

Chr hriistma mass CCrrossword

Across 2. Green; you put presents under it 6. Round green ornament often on doors 7. Starred in “It’s a Wonderful Life” 9. Hung by chimney with care 11. Grandma got run over by one of these 12. Heart three sizes too small 13. Santa’s helpers 14. movie with Clark Griswold Down 1. Snowman who melted 3. Milky looking alcoholic beverage 4. Found under Christmas tree 5. Color of Santa’s suit 8. Had a red nose 9. Often put on top of Christmas tree 10. Broad face and a little round belly

The PATRIOT

Volume 37, Number 3

December 18, 2001

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Hughes, students romp around swamp scared when we would drift with the person, all the supernatural glitter is the water, the quietness, the wildlife, current towards them.” The group gone. That is what is so great about and the way we meandered through saw numerous large, medium, and a wilderness trip and you either see the water and did not know what was even baby alligators throughout the if the person has substance or they on the other side.” There were areas After taking just one bite out canoe trip, but unfortunately many of don’t. In this group there was a lot of quicksand around the area. “It was of his triple-decker hamburger, them were suffering from water of substance.” very interesting because we would sophomore Steve Van Shura knew stress due to the lack of rain. have missed it if Cathy did not point something was terribly wrong. Like The largest gator the everyone else on the trip to group saw was 10 to 11 feet long.

Okefenokee Swamp, Steve was a After taking numerous pictures, victim of Wendy’s poor customer the group headed on its trip. Cathy service. Every order was miss- Sakas complimented the group combobulated, including Steve’s 2- saying, “It displayed wilderness patty triple-decker sandwich. savvy for each one of us to go past Thankfully, the remainder of the trip that 10 foot alligator without it was devoid of such crises. going in. I thought that was The trip, November 16th to wonderful.”

November 24 th, was run by Mr. Canoeing all day for 7 to Hughes and was an amazing 10 miles proved to be quite experience for all its participants: adventurous and challenging for juniors Megan Farrell, Meaghan the group. Since the water level Smith, Colleen O’Brien, Brant Ross, had decreased, the canoeists had and Brendan Fowler, sophomores to push themselves over logs, Steve Van Shura and Jeff Pilarski, through sand, and sometimes pick freshman Emily Andon, Class of up the canoe and walk in order to 1999 graduate Brandon Lawler, and reach their destination. At the Social Studies teacher Mr. Heubeck. River Narrows, both the bough and The group’s guide was Ms. Cathy stern partners had to work hard in Mr. Hughes guides his motley crew of swamp adventurers through the untamed wetlands of Georgia.

Sakas, a Savannah, Georgia resident order to make it through the narrow as well as an aquanaut and friend of and windy river. For most the On the campsite the group it out. It was fun to go up to your Mr. Hughes. canoeing was enjoyable due to the proved to be able to operate well waist in sand knowing that you would After dinner at the Georgia great conversation and ability to together. Cathy remarked, “I was pop back out,” said Mr.Heubeck.

Pig, home of the nation’s best observe a new environment and very impressed. You are all very Besides these activities, Megan barbeque (according to Mr. Hughes), wildlife. “Canoeing was very nice good campers.” The substance of Farrell said, “I enjoyed watching the the travelers arrived in Okefenokee because it gave me a new the group provided great group wrestling matches at Juniper Springs Swamp and discovered that its perspective of what things are like dynamics throughout the week. “We between Mr.Heubeck, Steve, and amazing beauty contradicted the in the swamp and it was very had a younger less experienced group Brandon.” stereotypical image Hollywood often beautiful,” said Brendan Fowler.

On Friday, November 23, the and it was fun to see them build in depicts. “Before Okefenokee, my group anxiously awaited being able Interesting events always confidence, bond together as an unit impression of the swamp was a occurred throughout the day, such as become a community and that does to snorkel with the magnificent sea murky, scary place, but now, after playing football, taking hikes, jumping not always happen with every group cow, the manatee, at Crystal River. experiencing it, my perspective has on peat blowups (this swamp land but this group seemed to mesh After renting wetsuits and gathering changed. It was really beautiful in shakes), and possibly even sinking together.” Also, Mr.Heubeck snorkeling gear, they boarded the its own way and had a lot of wildlife,” through the peat and losing your commented “Because you have to platoon board driven by Mr.Hughes. remarked Megan Farrell. live with each other and cooperate it After floating around the river and sandals.

On Monday, November 19th, After a fun day at the is like one big family for a week. trying to avoid the group tested their canoeing swamp the group returned to Griffis They were a fabulous group to work h i t t i n g abilities at Billy’s Lake. On the banks Fish Camp, which is a primitive with and there are nine other students m a n a t e e s of the water, tall, bald Cyprus trees campsite of tents with a shelter for I now know.” swimming, housed many types of wildlife. preparing meals. “Camping was a the group Sharing his vast knowledge of birds, great experience to the outdoors and Part II: The Florida Mr. Hughes taught the students to experience how some people lived,” Springs Trip identify these creatures. The water, said Emily Andon. Mr. Hughes said On Wednesday the group traveled to Florida Springs for the second part of the trip. While purchasing a turkey for Thanksgiving the group had some fun at Checkers and Baskin Robbins.

That night the cooks- Steve, snorkeled twice with a manatee.

Meaghan, Brendan, and Emily- The experience was amazing for all prepared an outdoor Thanksgiving the students. At a first look, Brant Massive reptilian monsters similar to this 11-foot alligator were often feast on Coleman stoves, and despite thought, “the manatees looked like big spotted while exploring the Okefenokee Swamp. fears about watery potatoes and Idaho potatoes.” Megan said, “When stuffing, the meal turned out to be I first saw the manatee I was sometimes brown due to the tanum that he chooses this type of campsite very tasty. “Thanksgiving dinner was bedazzled. Being with it was an from tree needles, was home to fish, because “I wanted people to have good, especially Emily’s potatoes and amazing experience. I will never turtles, and river otters. The an experience unlike being at home. Brendan’s stuffing. It was a feast, forget the docile and peaceful notorious alligator was sighted Camping at a state park is too much and we all proved we could enjoy it,” animals.” several times, including in the water like being at home. The places we said Mr.Hughes.

The entire Crystal River trip on the banks. “I got very close to the went were pretty primitive so Canoeing in Juniper Springs was different than others because as alligators with my good friend everybody had to get to the basics. on Thanksgiving Day was the observed by Mr. Heubeck, “you got Brandon Lawler,” said Steve Van When you get to that level you find it favorite for many people. “I liked to see wildlife in its natural Shura, “It was not as scary as I doesn’t matter what clothes the the clarity of the water and how it environment. The unfortunate thing thought it would be. Some of the person is wearing, that their hair is went to a close canopy to an open was there were to many people alligators were very large and I got perfectly clean, you get to see the marshy area, the twist and turns of there. It seemed like we were almost encroaching upon them.” photo by Colleen O’Brien

photo by Colleen O’Brien

By Colleen O’Brien Managing Editor

December 18, 2001

Volume 37, Number 3

The PATRIOT

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Gadgets grace Xmas wish lists Do you remember being a little kid, and visiting Santa Claus at the Mall? Sitting on his lap and telling him what you wanted for Christmas?

[Well, this year there are numerous choices for children making their wish lists.]

In the past, stuffed animals, dolls, and toy cars dominated the wish lists of children. Today the new electronic innovations are most popular, among children as well as adults. Kids may be more interested in educational toys this year, with the availability of the Talk’N Learn Laptop, which teaches kids numbers, shapes, and colors. Another toy similar to this is the Leap Pad Learning Center from Leap Frog.

This educational toy identifies letters and words to help children read, phonetically sounds out words, and plays guided games and fun activities. It also has settings to allow kids to read at their own pace and skill level.

One of the most popular electronic products this year is the digital camera, which employs reusable memory cards instead of

film, and gives you far more creative control than film cameras. With a digital camera, you can transfer shots to your computer, then crop, adjust color and contrast, and add textures and other special effects. Final

Other popular items include several new gaming consoles, such as the Microsoft Xbox and Nintendo Gamecube. Xbox is Microsoft’s next-generation video game system that delivers the most powerful game

photo by Miyako Igari

by Stephanie Rew Staff Writer

The holiday choo-choo makes its appearance once again at Harford Mall, chugging into Santa’s Station, eagerly awaiting the arrival of exuberant kiddies.

results can be made into prints, cards, even T-shirts, or sent via e-mail, all using the software that usually comes with the camera. The leading brands are Kodak, Nikon, Olympus, and Sony. Prices range from $100 to $1,000.

experiences ever. Xbox empowers game artists by giving them the technology to fulfill their creative visions as never before, creating games that blur the lines between fantasy and reality. The Xbox console and controller are designed

to capture the power and performance that Xbox will deliver and are based on the input of more than 5,000 gamers and games creators from around the world.

Sleek and powerful in its look, in a rich shade of black, the Xbox console is emblazoned with a large “X” and a signature green Xbox “jewel” positioned in its center.

Nintendo Gamecube is probably the more popular of the two systems.

Since its release, Gamecube has surpassed Xbox in sales, probably because it costs about $199, about $100 less than the cost of an Xbox. Nintendo Gamecube is an audio-visual game machine. It focuses on gameplay and is, according to Nintendo, “the ultimate TV game machine.” It is also the first of its kind. The object of the Gamecube is to create a world in which the player can enjoy the feeling of actually touching the “world” created by the software. In addition, the player can benefit by building a bond with the game and characters in it. The Nintendo Gamecube will carry on the tradition of Nintendo games and give birth to a new kind of entertainment that surpasses existing technological benchmarks.

Pet lovers chill with exotic chinchillas

by Jacki Kosdemba Features Co-Editor

When it comes to cleanliness, there’s nothing quite like good pumice bath. Romping around in pumice would presumably encourage un-cleanliness for most.

However, for chinchillas, it is a bathing necessity. Chinchillas require daily bathing in pumice to prevent their fur from becoming too oily. This is one among many quirky features of these animals.

The chinchilla is basically a small rodent with rabbit and squirrellike features. It has large intelligent eyes, long whiskers, bunny ears, and a soft, bushy tail. Cumbersome feet, resembling that of a kangaroo, enable the chubby rodent to bounce around.

An adult chinchilla usually weighs between 1 and 2 pounds and grows to be about a foot-long. Their fur, most commonly a standard gray, can

The PATRIOT

also be jet black, beige, brown and white, as well as a mixture of these colors. The newest, most rare and most unusual color is African violet, a shade of pink or mauve.

Their light-weight, soft, silky textured fur has been prized for hundreds of years. In the 15 th century, Incan rulers began wearing chinchilla robes, and ever since, the demand for chinchilla fur has increased. This popularity led to the chinchilla’s near extinction by the turn of the 20th century. This is not surprising; over one hundred chinchillas are required to produce one medium length coat.

Since the Chinchilla’s mass exploitation began, organizations have been established to preserve their population. Today these natives of the Andes Mountains are raised on ranches in the United States for their fur and can be found at your local pet store.

Chinchillas make great pets.

Unlike guinea pigs, hamsters and rabbits, Chinchillas have absolutely no odor, make very little noise, are parasite free, and will never scratch, because they do not have any claws.

They also outlive most rodents, having a life span of 15 plus years.

Their diet consists mainly of chinchilla pellets, supplemented with

timothy, Bermuda grass, alfalfa and oats. Once in awhile, you can treat your chinchilla to some tasty fresh fruit, dried fruit, carrots, organic oats, whole grain bread, cereal, raw peanuts, or sunflower seeds. They also require chewing materials to trim their teeth. Never feed your chinchilla human food; doing this could kill them.

If you are planning on buying a chinchilla, your animal will require a cage that is about 26 inches wide by 28 inches high, and should be lined with pine shavings. CAUTION:

Chinchillas Do Not Use Cedar Shavings! It can cause respiratory distress. Use Kiln Dried Pine Shavings. (However, even some chinchillas are unable to handle the pine aroma.) If you are putting the litter in the pull-out tray beneath the cage, and the chinchillas will never touch it, you might consider using plain, non-scented cat-litter. A pet store chinchilla will usually cost between $60-$80, although purebred and rare colored chinchillas could sell for over $100.

Teachers share cherished seasonal recipes Mrs. Michael’s Holiday Russian Tea Balls Ingredients: 1 cup butter (not margarine) at room temperature 4 tbsp. Granulated sugar 1 tsp. Vanilla 2 cups all-purpose flour 1 ½ cups chopped pecans (fine) 10x sugar - Preheat oven to 325 degrees. Mix butter and granulated sugar. Add remaining ingredients. Roll into small balls (walnut size) and bake for about 20 minutes/ Roll in 10x sugar while hot (as soon as removed from oven) and again when completely cool.

Mrs. Julie Baker’s Holiday Mashed Potato Rolls Ingredients: 1 cup of cooked mashed potatoes ½ cup of sugar 2 eggs 1 teaspoon of salt 2/3 cup of vegetable oil 1 cup of milk, scalded 1 package of yeast dissolved in ½ cup of lukewarm water 5-6 cups of flour - Combine first seven ingredients in a large bowl and mix well. Add the flour, one cup at a time, until the dough is firm, but not stiff. (it will still be somewhat sticky) Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight. The next day, remove dough from the refrigerator when ready to use and shape (can cut out with a biscuit cutter and bake on a cookie sheet or roll into balls, putting 2-3 dough balls into each muffin cup in a muffin pan). Allow to rise 1.5 hours. Bake at 400 degrees for about 8-10 minutes.

Volume 37, Number 3

December 18, 2001

En Enttertainmen ertainmentt

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“It’s the most wonderful time of the year” for fans of traditional Christmas flicks

by Megan Switalski staff writer The month of December, a month filled with the familiar sights, sounds, and feelings of Christmas.

But, what is any holiday without its movies? The holiday season that is upon us certainly has an abundance of them. Since this is the case, it is to be assumed people have many different opinions on Christmas movies.

Many people said that their favorite Christmas movie was The Grinch. But, the largest response was for, A Christmas Story. Most people thought that the movie had a very realistic feel to it, which made it something that they could relate to.

Lacie Barlow said, “It shows a family that has problems and it’s funny with a good, not corny message.”

The fact that the movie has a message also seems to increase its appeal with other people. Amanda Morrison likes the movie for this reason as she said, “it has a good message; it says always think of your actions’ consequences.”

Many people said that tradition has a lot to do with choosing a favorite Christmas movie. It was a common thing for people to say that they watched a movie all of the

time when they were little and that that was a reason why they loved it so much. Derek, a senior, said, “My favorite Christmas movie is Mickey’s Christmas Carol because I grew up watching it. It’s a good story and everybody loves Mickey and Goofy as Jacob Marly...that’s classic.”

It seems that most of the students were drawn to movies that were realistic or comedic. Besides A Christmas Story, Christmas Vacation and The Santa Clause were also mentioned numerous times. Sophomore Seth Beck said, although not truly related, “My favorite Christmas movie of all time is Shrek because he’s green.”

Not as frequently mentioned, but still going along with the idea of a Christmas nature was, The Nightmare Before Christmas since most people saw it as a welcomed change from the usual Christmas movies.

Speaking of usual Christmas films, the holiday season and its movies tend to get a bit repetitious, boring, and over-commercialized.

Chris Cowell, a junior at South River, points out, “I think that most [Christmas movies] are boring and stupid after you’ve seen them a thousand times.” While Clark Calabrese said, “I tend to have some trouble getting into the spirit of

Frosty the Snowman 4% Rudolph the Red-nosed Reindeer 7% Miracle on 34th Street 5%

Other 3%

Christmas, our society’s most commercial, most oversold, most advertised holiday of them all, and the vapid, meaningless movies of the season do nothing to assuage my disgust.” Now, who wouldn’t agree with that?

Some love Christmas movies and others agree with Clark. Still others fall somewhere in the middle, agreeing with the statement made by Eddie Brown who said, “Christmas movies are only known for stupid little quotes.” Christmas movies have long been a part of the season, and now that it is here, they are something with which we will have to deal throughout December.

The Grinch 10%

The Santa Clause 3% A Christmas Story 30%

Christmas Vacation 38%

Students vote their favorite Christmas films. Top choices include Christmas Vacation and A Christmas Story.

Reality shows voted off TV island However, the basic idea of the show remains the same: to put unmarried couples Imagine being on an exotic island trapped.

Trapped, where their longsurrounded by half naked s t a n d i n g strangers, declining relationship is put to ratings, demoralizing plot the test. They are lines and, oh yes, Jeff forced on dates Probst. By the looks of with seductive things you much have singles to see if found your way to they give in to Reality TV Sequel temptation. The Island. show has drawn Sequels of criticism and A survivor looks on, popular Reality TV determined to win the perhaps lost ratings shows, Temptation latest competition. because many Island and Survivor think the show is have emerged this fall bearing just too hot for primetime television! ratings far lower than their originals.

“There must be something in Temptation Island II has done the Temptation Island soil because relatively chill in the ratings, but not it’s fertile in trashy entertainment. as well as the original averaging Breaking couples apart is a dumb about four million viewers per idea for a show. All they do is get episode. drunk and try to hook up. Hey, kind

VS. December 18, 2001

Many speculate that this is of reminds me of high school, ahhhh!!!!” said junior Adam Trionfo. because of the flood of reality shows Indeed this might be true but that followed Survivor. “Survivor these same things that draw some was sweet because there was people away from reality shows nothing on TV like it that appealed to people. Then all these other attract auspicious others.

“I mean, your knockoffs like Temptation Island, watching Family Matters and then Boot Camp, Who Wants to Marry you flip the channel and there’s a Their Cousin, etc, etc, came out. scantily clad man People are tired of this bragging about his stuff now, backside to an it’s just not unsuspecting hoochie mama. That’s what chill,” said junior JP we call shock value.

Jendrek.

Obviously, it’s hard to flip back to Urkel Jeff Probst extinguishes the when something like Survivor torch on a survivor competitor.

III has that is on,” says d o n e junior Brian Turek. relatively Rivaling TI2 in ratings is Survivor III. Survivor well in the ratings, However, the idea III like all other reality TV shows has is the same; settings in Africa, and been unable to match Survivor in Jeff “The Tribe Has Spoken” Probst ratings. Survivor consistently drew are still there. ratings in One must wonder what will the tens of happen if TV producers decide to m i l l i o n s make even another sequence to the w h i l e two reality TV flicks. TV ratings Survivor III may just continue to sizzle out, a v e r a g e s eventually snuffing out their torch almost half completely. Only time will tell if of that. these reality shows can out rate and outlast each other.

Volume 37, Number 3

photo courtesy of fox.com

by Tom Scilipoti staff writer

The PATRIOT

En Enttertainmen ertainmentt

12

Seniors give audience a taste of talent Entertainment Co-Editor

Hardcore jammin’ on the drums, a Mary Catherine Gallagher impersonator, and a skit poking fun of our principal from the “land down under” all added to the excitement of the 2001 Senior Variety Show.

On November 20th and 21st many of the seniors showed off their talents to the crowd of students, families, faculty, and last years graduates, all who participated with energetic spirits.

The performances went from one extreme to the other, allowing the audience to laugh hysterically and listen attentively.

The musical stylings of Craig Parsons, along with the vocal talents of Aimee Karas, Matt Muir, and

Kevin Korczynski, contributed to the artistic part of the show.

In sharp contrast to these often serious acts, comedy skits such as Whitney Kent perfectly imitating Saturday Night Live character Mary Catherine Gallagher, Nick Rich playing the hunk at the all-girl dance, and Matt Nicodemus selling the useful “whipper snapper” sent the audience into roaring laughter.

Along with these, Andrew Lazor showed off his flair by rapping, acting, and tactfully singing Sublime’s “What I Got,” which held a few original lines that ended the entire show with a bang.

In addition, Andrew joined with Brendan Smith on the drums, Gerard Nagle on bass, and Greg Chrest and Sean MacAvoy on the guitar to perform “Smooth Criminal” better than Alien Ant Farm.

M r s .

Michael had claimed that the show was extremely well worth going to see. She was right, considering most of the acts demonstrated pure talent and energy. Tuesday night’s audience was large, but it did not even Joe Kauffman and Nate Lipinski perform their compare to “Who’s On First?” skit.

We d n e s d a y ’s crowd that could not even fit in all of every year. It distinguishes many the seats. students who in the past have not The Variety Show gives the been recognized for their talents. audience a fantastic show and also Who knows what the class of 2003 doubles as a fundraiser for the Senior will bring to the Variety Show.

Prom. The establishment of class unity makes the show a success photo by Michele Renaud

by Sara Clafferty

Fans take Road Less Traveled to Strait country

by Matt Garono Classified Manager George Strait emerged in the ’80s as one of country music’s “new traditionalists,” determined to save the genre from pop excess. Over the years, he’s remained true to this principles, maintaining a consistently straightforward style.

On The Road Less Traveled he continues to make pure,

uncomplicated music full of earnest emotions and powerful writing.

Strait’s choice of material alone is a demonstration to the authenticity of his artistic ability.

He digs deep for an ’80s Merle Haggard composition (“My Life’s Been Good”), taps fellow new traditionalist Rodney Crowell for the roadhouse-rocking, New Orleansthemed “Stars on the Water,” and offers a convincing take on “The

Real Thing,” a honky-tonker by “Wild Thing” author Chip Taylor that sings the praises of Elvis Presley and Johnny Cash.

“Good Time Charley’s” sounds like the younger George Strait with the honky-tonk southern sound.

The new album has a very good mix of ballads and rockincountry songs. His big hit now, “Run”, is on the top ten country chart. It is a strong ballad telling his

love that he needs her and for her to hurry back to him, which is a classic Strait theme.

His new music is now more on the pop side compared to his back hills style. Although his most loyal fans would argue that his new style is still strait country, his music has definitely evolved from the pure honky-tonk sound of his earlier years.

Happy New Year

The PATRIOT

Volume 37, Number 3

December 18, 2001

En Enttertainmen ertainmentt

13

Moses Leroy defies convention, creates unique sound

by Andrew Lazor Editor-in-Chief I discovered The Incredible Moses Leroy in a Mr. Tire waiting room. It was a Monday, one of those Mondays that we had off…where you plan to wake up at 7:30 in the morning, go on a twomile jog, disinfect your bathtub, read several chapters of a book, finish your term paper, write an exhaustive history of Marxism, and be in bed by 9:00 pm, but always end up rolling out of bed at noon and driving around aimlessly with your friends. Somewhere along the line, I ended up running over a nail and blowing out my tire.

So I had to make the trek to the Mr. Tire on one of those pathetic doughnut contraptions that make you feel like you’re driving on a silver dollar. As I waited in the lobby, I started leafing through a magazine to pass the time. I casually perused the pages until a small article caught my attention.

It was a blurb on a distinctive looking man. Pictured clad in boho chic and holding a polished Gibson, he sat on a stool with an innumerable amount of sneakers strewn about his feet. Immediately drawn to the sheer quirkiness of the piece, I read on only to discover that

charming, experimental, afterschool-on-a-rainy-day rock.

Leroy’s undeniable talent of weaving simple, clever lyrics with an incredibly v a r i e d soundtrack creates his distinctive style: a not-so-pop c u l t u r e hodgepodge of everything kitsch.

F i n d i n g inspiration by digging through his mother’s old record collection, Leroy uses Moses Leroy’s individuality extends past his music and extremely into his personality and clothing choice. obscure and innovative and Pumas rank amongst his sampling techniques throughout favorites). A man with a taste for Electric Pocket Radio, his debut collecting comic books, vinyl, acoustic effort.

On the title track, he guitars, and tennis shoes, Moses Leroy is also known as Ron combines cuts from a “How to Learn Fountenberry, a former substitute French” instructional record with a teacher from San Diego, California. beat strangely reminiscent of the To place The Incredible Super Mario Brothers theme. “Beep Moses Leroy in a single musical genre Beep Love” pays homage to Dutch would be a definite insult to his new wave rockers Gruppo Sportivo appealing eclecticism. Drawing from (don’t worry, I’ve never heard of a seemingly bottomless bag of tricks, them either).The song “Fuzzy” Leroy succeeds in his goal of creating contains a subtle sample from folk the man, “The Incredible Moses Leroy,” was an up and coming musician as well as a fervent purveyor of fine footwear (vintage Converse

revivalists The Sandpipers. Leroy’s diverse musical tastes make for a truly unique listening experience.

Not one song on Electric Pocket Radio runs into the next.

Leroy bravely skirts homogeny by fiddling with a plethora of fresh and engrossing sounds. The record’s 15 tracks take you on 15 different journeys, providing listeners with 15 totally unique experiences.

“Anthem” sees Leroy dabbling in subdued power-pop, with pacing guitars and synthesized backbeats. “Christmas in the Summertime” features a lilting, calming melody, a combination of soft jazz piano and Latin percussion.

“Tomato Soup” combines bluesy trumpet solos with a jazzy, syncopated rhythm. With “Our One Millionth Customer,” Leroy’s daringly melds drum-‘n-bass with Beach Boys-esque harmonies.

Leroy’s sugary voice swoons with sweet, almost apologetic sincerity. A simple but thought-provoking storyteller, he sings of childhood, lost love, and his favorite sweater, often letting the guitar or piano contribute to the tale.

With his refreshing, open-minded musical approach, The Incredible Moses Leroy more than lives up to his name.

Harry Potter transmutes movie records

by Joel Wienholt News Co-Editor The much-anticipated Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone has finally flown into theaters, conjuring up magnificent ticket sales.

Showing on 8,200 screens in 3,672 theaters, it has become the most widely distributed film ever.

Based on J.K. Rowling’s hit children book, Harry Potter has changed the way we think about wizardry and witchcraft.

Harry Potter, played by newcomer Daniel Radcliffe, is a poor eleven-year-old boy, who was

The novel Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone began the magical movie series of Harry Potter’s adventures.

December 18, 2001

orphaned as an infant. He is brought up and raised by his horrid aunt and uncle

Harry Potter learns to command his broomstick at Hogwarts.

treat him harshly, locking him up in his room. Harry eventually realizes that he is not like other boys, and is soon after invited to enroll at the Hogswarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry.

Although his wicked parents rejected the school invite, a giant named Hagrid, played by Roccie Coltrane, takes off Harry to the Hogwarts. When he arrives at the magical school he instantly becomes a celebrity. There, he is tutored in the arts of potions, spells, and riding a broomstick.

At the school, Headmaster Dumbledore, a bearded, white haired man, played by Richard Harris, closely watches Harry from the very start.

Hagrid reveals to Harry that a wicked wizard, who was surprisingly unable to kill baby Harry,

in fact killed his real parents. This wicked wizard discovers that he can obtain unlimited power by locating a magic stone that is located in Hogswarts.

As the violent sorcerer searches for his stone, it becomes Harry’s responsibility, with the help of his friends to stop him and save the people.

Director Chris Columbus, whose credits include “Home Alone” and “Mrs. Doubtfire,” combines amazing scenes with a great story line to create a recordbreaking film.

It has obliterated numerous box office records, becoming an appealing adaptation of J.K. Rowling’s hit children’s book.

On it’s opening day it grossed an estimated $29.45 million at the box office, surpassing the record set by Star Wars: Episode 1The Phantom Menace when it took in $28.5 million on its first day in 1999.

Volume 37, Number 3

It grossed just under $100 million in its first weekend and over $200 million in two weeks. The numbers are staggering, and this trend of moviegoers surely will not vanish anytime soon.

1005 Beards Hill Road Aberdeen, MD 21001 The PATRIOT

Sports

14

Terps tear through NCAA competition Experienced seniors bring stability to solid Maryland squad

There are several famous basketball clichés: you can’t shoot without the ball, you can’t have a pick without the roll, and you can’t have a winter in Maryland without Terrapin hoops.

Since Marylanders east of College Park have been deprived of the fruits of an NBA franchise, they must either betray their Maryland heritage and follow the Sixers, or choose to opt for the NCAA game.

Many choose the latter.

No one can argue that the decision to follow the Terps has not reaped sweet rewards, especially in the 90’s and continuing into this decade. Last year’s Final Four appearance was the first ever for the university. In the last five years, the Terps have won at least 20 games, including three consecutive 25-win seasons. And there’s no reason to doubt that Maryland will again reach the 25-win plateau.

High rankings, tough ACC conference games, and the NCAA tournament have all been mainstays the last decade for the Terps. But in the last few years, experience has made Maryland an annual contender.

Senior experience makes any team a contender and the Terps have three senior stars. Juan Dixon is arguably one of the best players in the country and in Maryland history.

The 6’3", 164-pound swingman out of Calvert Hall, was awarded with All-American honors last year. This year he is averaging 18.5 points per game, along with 3.2 steals per game. Maryland’s other top player, Lonny Baxter, was an All-American honorable mention last year. He is pacing the team with 8.8 rebounds per game, and is second on the team behind Dixon with 16.1 ppg. Senior Byron Mouton transferred from Tulane last year and has not stopped hustling ever since.

One of the best backcourts in the nation has also made a home at Cole Field House. Junior Steve Blake and Dixon form an excellent assist-shot combination, arguably the best one in the nation. Blake is the best “dimer” in the ACC, averaging 7.0 assists per game. That is pretty amazing considering that the ACC is riddled with great point men like Jason Williams of Duke, Edward Scott of Clemson, Tony Akins of Georgia Tech, and Roger Mason of Virginia.

The emergence of secondyear “diaper dandy” Chris Wilcox has cause mass hysteria amongst the Maryland faithful. Weighing in at 220 pounds with a height of 6’10", Wilcox is perhaps the most athletic player on the team; amazing Cole crowds with his notorious one-handed alleyops. Wilcox has a blindingly bright future in the coming years at the just unwrapped, hi-tech Comcast Center,

One man might as well have the new Maryland basketball facility a bed and bath setup in the House: opening in 2002.

The new digs for the team Gary Williams. The proud inspiration contains 17,100 seats (2,600 more for the term “Garyland” has roamed than Cole) and 20 suites (20 more the floor of Cole since 1964, when than Cole). The new Center will cost $76 million after Comcast “donates” its $25 million in naming “gifts.” These socalled “gifts” are the largest amount any corporate sponsor has ever paid for the naming rights of a collegiate sports facility.

But none of the true Maryland faithful will ever forget the Field House. Built in 1955, the “Roman Coliseum of college basketball” cost the University the hefty amount of $3.3 Junior point guard Steve Blake brings maturity to the Maryland transition game. He is one of the million. It is one of the top returners from last year’s Final Four squad. last “barn” arenas ever built, which may be why Cole has a extremely he was a guard for the Terps’ romanticized aura attached to it. basketball team. He came back to Only one Final Four has graced the UM after a 32-year hiatus to coach floor of Cole, the 1970 Final the the team, and he has been here ever included UCLA, New Mexico, since. Last year was his first Final Jacksonville, and St. Bonaventure, Four appearance ever. And it can with UCLA and the Wizard of be assured that he wants to close Westwood’s (John Wooden) fourth down the Big Barn with a national title. championship. http://umterps.fansonly.com/

by Ryan McCavitt Features Co-Editor

Teams involved in major league change

by Lou Perseghin News Co-Editor After this year, four JC sports currently competing in public school leagues will be moving to either the MIAA or IAAM. Volleyball, swimming, cross-country and track will all be playing their last season with the MPSSAA in either ’01 or ’02.

The decision to change leagues was not one that was made

by JC. In fact, these four teams are the last to make the move to the MIAA or IAAM. Many other JC teams, including soccer, baseball, softball, basketball and football all used to be members of the public school league until they decided at one point or another to transfer leagues.

The PATRIOT

To further understand the league shift, one has to understand the way the MPSSAA is currently arranged. The state is separated into 9 districts, with district 5 being comprised of Harford, Carroll, and Howard counties. After next year, Harford County will be leaving district 5 and making a new district with Cecil County called the Susquehanna League.

It was voted, by the high school principals of the future league, that JC would not be allowed to continue participation in both public and private leagues. If the school wanted to continue to participate as it had done in the past, then every JC team would have to join the public league. Forest Wiest, supervisor of athletics and physical education for Harford County Public Schools said,

“it would be impossible for a team to come in and only play certain sports.”

JC had no say in the matter, but did receive 2 years notification about the changes.

In a way, the league change will open up new opportunities for JC. For the teams competing in the public league, even if they won the county championship, under the rules of the public school league, they were not eligible to go on to states, making their county level win somewhat hollow.

Maryland is one of 4 states out of all 50 in which private schools cannot play for state championships in the nationally regulated public leagues. When these JC teams join the MIAA for the guys, and the IAAM for the girls, they will be eligible to compete for state-level championships through league

Volume 37, Number 3

competition.

Although the league changes will be beneficial to both the public schools and JC, it will have some emotional effects, namely rivalries that go back many years. The swimming teams traditionally go head-to-head against CMW for dominance in the league, and in men’s volleyball, JC and Fallston seesaw back and forth in the fight for the county crown.

Although the changes will not pit these teams against each other, Mr. O’Brien said, “we [JC] hope to continue scheduling scrimmages between these teams.

We have done the same thing in the past, with the football team playing Joppatowne annually, even though the game does not affect league standings.

December 18, 2001

Sports

15

B-ball dribbles around area’s best teams

by Jon Gentri Staff Writer With an overwhelming victory of 83 to 27 against Lutheran, the Men’s Varsity Basketball team kicked off what promises to be a successful season. Headed by Coach Larry Burton, Assistant Coach Pat Mullen, and led by captains Matt Corbett, Corey Turner, and Chris Colbert, the team plans to focus on defense, out-running their opponents in a quick transition game. “Defense is going to be the key to our season,” said junior Alex Brueggemann who, along with senior Chris Moderacki, was one of the top scorers in the opening game against Lutheran.

In his second year as Varsity Head Coach, Larry Burton thinks that last year’s preparation will pay off this season. He feels that the players know what his expectations of them are, and that this will help the team to work smoothly throughout the upcoming season. He also says that the hard work and dedication that the team showed in the off- season, by weight training and playing in a summer league, will help give them a leg up.

The team is young, with only three seniors (Matt Corbett, Chris Moderacki, and Joe Zolenas), but there are seven returning Varsity players and a very strong bench.

Coach Burton feels that the key to the season will be the ability of his seven returning lettermen to mesh with the first-year varsity players.

The team is also much bigger and quicker than last year, which should make the games very exciting. They hope to win the Championship, or at least place in the top three. With a schedule including Oilman, St. Paul’s, and Curly, the team is facing a difficult schedule in he MIAA “B” Conference, but they are optimistic.

“We have some tough games coming up,” said junior captain Chris Colbert, “but we are hoping to place well in the conference.”

The 2001-2002 JC Men’s Varsity Basketball team has a very strong team this season, and is looking forward to winning games in front of large crowds. Coach Burton urges the students to “Come check us out.” The team this season is talented, energetic, and quick, which will make the games fastpaced and fun to watch.

by Megan Whiteleather Staff Writer After last year’s record of 13-9 and the loss of two starting players, Kristin Jasper and Maggie Pyzik, the Girl’s Varstiy Basketball team hopes to continue their history of success in the coming season.

Coached by Mrs. Kathleen Shannon, the team has a unique combination of experience and rookie enthusiasm.

Led by the five seniors on the team, Kim Kane, Mary Kate Sullivan, Elizabeth Oktavec, Cassie Nelson, and Katie Stotler, the team will not have trouble searching for leadership. The team’s main strategy is to out play the teams on the defensive end and let most of the points come from fast breaks. “We have good defensive tactics that will help us in the close games,” said senior Cassie Nelson. She added, “I think if we work hard on defense and play as a team, we will have a great season.” The biggest rivals are Seton Keough and St. Francis.

Teamwork plays a strong role as well in the team’s strategy.

The girls are very close friends, both on and off the court. The seven returning players will work together

with the four rookies, two of who are freshman. “Our strong team unity on the court allows for the team to ‘connect’ on the court,” said Katie Stotler.

The season took off to a rocky start, when sophomore starter Ali Levendusky dove for a loose ball and suffered a slight knee sprain.

However, the injury did not diminish the team’s spirit, and Levendusky bounced back onto the court a few days later. The team members agree, that combined with their natural talent, hard work will be an integral part of the season. Close games will be determined by the team who works harder and wants it more.

Senior Elizabeth Oktavec said, “Our team plays with a lot of heart, and we are extremely aggressive.”

Although the team lost their firstand second league by a total of seven to IND and Roland Park, they contnuied to work hard and come out optimistic against McDonogh and C. Milton Wright.

Overall the team will be successful if the inside players can stay out of foul trouble and at the same time, the perimeter players make their foul shots throughout the game.

Creatine creates problems for athletes parents and coaches aware of this problem. 80% of the teenagers surveyed stated that they had not had Competition is the heart of a conversation with their parents high school athletics. Athletes often about performance enhancing drugs. spend many hours a week training in It seems likely that teenagers order to perform their best. Besides are influenced by advertising to use hard work and skill, some athletes performance-enhancing drugs to feel they need to use performanceachieve better athletic ability. Those enhancing drugs to improve natural students that thought high school athletic ability. students Some prescriptions should take Survey of JC students on perfromance enhancing drugs drugs are abused PEDs said, and used for “If they want 1. Do you think that high school athletes should take PEDs? Yes- 15% No- 85% creating more to do it they 2. Do you or have you ever taken PEDs? Yes- 5% No- 95% muscle and increase will do it 3. Do you know someone else who takes PEDs? Yes- 31% No- 69% endurance. anyway even 4. Are you aware of the effects, physical and mental, They are if it is not of PED’s on the body?

Yes- 60% No- 40% stimulants- which OK,” and “It 5. Do you believe that athletic ability is increased by PEDs? Yes- 55% No- 45% cause the body to makes the 6. Do you think that PEDs should be prescription only?

Yes- 44% No- 28% run in overdrive. a t h l e t e 7. Do you think it is okay for professional Blood doping perform at his athletes to use PEDs? Yes- 24% No- 76% increases the or her best.” amount of blood and Those who therefore increasing thought they the number of red blood cells. This supplements that are over the maybe due to ignorance or an should not said “It makes the teams creates an increased level of oxygen counter products, such as andro, obsession with winning. unfair, the game shouldn’t be about allowing athletes to run or jump creatine, and ephedra.

A national survey stated that who has the better drugs to make farther and faster without cramps.

While appearing to be less one million teenagers, ages 12 to 17, them pumped up, it should be about Also, anabolic steroids are used to harmful than a drug, these have taken performance-enhancing their self achieved skill for the game,” create more muscles. supplements are not approved by the drugs and supplements, and only and “They hurt your mental ability Even if these effects seem FDA and their effects are not known 96% of those were aware of the and they can cause permanent advantageous and beneficial, the precisely. Reports have discovered potential health damage. One in five physical damage.” physical and metal effects are that cramps, headaches, acne, and teenagers knew someone who took In answering question 3 of destructive. These effects are not kidney problems have all occurred. supplements or drugs to enhance the survey, of the people who attractive for any high school student. participated in the survey, 62% take Some of the marketed performance or appearance.

There is an increase in body hair, supplements are the following: Those people working to end creatine, 33% take steriods, and 5% baldness, and oily skin and acne. Andros- Andro-Gen, Andro-Stack, performance enhancing drug and take ephedra.

Also, cholestorol and blood pressure Androstat, Nor-te,Creatine-ATP supplement use hope to make

by Colleen O’Brien Managing Editor

December 18, 2001

problems arise. Many other uncomfortable effects are urinary and bowel problems, nausea and vomiting, sleep problems, and an increase in tendon and ligament injuries. Mental problems include aggressive behavior, mood swings, hallucinations, paranoia, anxiety, panic attacks, and depression.

Some athletes also use sport

Advantage, Crea-Tek, Creatine Booster, Action, Power Creatine, Diet Boost, Energel, Herbalife, Metabolife 356,Xtra Creatine Serum, Ripped Fuel, Thermadrene, Thermo Speed, and Yellow Jacket.

Despite these horrific effects, many high school athletes choose to use performance enhancing drugs and supplements,

Volume 37, Number 3

The PATRIOT

16

Sports

JC well represented on All-Harford County teams Athletes win spots in all sports, receive numerous honors for Fall 2001 Season

Boy’s Varsity Soccer Women’s Varsity Soccer First Team

Second Team

Dave Ivy ‘03 Matt Cooper ‘02 Chris Roberts ‘03 T.J. French ‘03 Drew Westervelt ‘03 Nick VanHorn ‘03

Honorable Mention Kyle Leppert ‘03 Sean Travers ‘02 Steven Hipley ‘02 Alex Pyzik ‘03 Jimmy Richards ‘03

First Team Honorable Mention Amy Graul ’03 Kerry VanShura ’02 Mary Kate Sullivan ’02 Andrea Geata ’05 Ashley Meyers ’05 Mairead Gordon ’03 Rachael Layer ’05 Katie Whelehan ’02 Lauren Ward ’04

Second Team

Jamie Zimmerman ’05, Kate Saul ’02, Shannon Seipp ’03

Varsity Football First Team T.D. Callahan ’02 Matt Nicodemus ’02 Jeff Vornadore ’02 Brendan Ireton ’03

Second Team

Honorable Mention Derek Hardesty ’02 Kevin Weaver ’03 Owen Jordan ’03 Jonathan Gentri ’03 Andrew Thompson ’02

Field Hockey Second Team Megan Farrell ’03

Honorable Mention Alora Honiball ’02 Anna Ayuso ’03 Kaitlyn Johnston ’02

Cross Country First Team Kyle Hodebecke ’02, Valerie Beach ’02, Colleen O’Brien ‘03

Varsity Men’s Volleyball Women’s Volleyball First Team

Honorable Mention

Brendan Smith ’02 Tim Beck ’02 Matt Muir ’02 Corey Turner ’03

Doug Adams ’02 Seth Beck ’04 Tyler Tilghman ’04

Second Team

Greg Adamski ’02 Chris Inmon ’04

Kevin Lindeman ’02 Jason Botzler ’03

First Team Jen Lowman ’02 Kayani Turner ’04

Second Team Katie Stotler ’02 Brianna Williams ’04

Honorable Mention Colleen Egan ’04 Christina Bowden ’02 Cassie Nelson ’02

Growing program pins county The wrestlers have adopted a new name for themselves this year, they now call themselves “warriors.”

Coach “Chief” Gary Scholl has adopted that name for the wrestlers because a wrestling match is like a battle and the people who fight in battles are warriors. The Hoedebecke grapples with Perryville opponent. team is looking to

successful individual season.

Captains Kyle “The West Point Cadet” Hoedebecke and Brendon “Mr. Saturday Night” Ireton looked very strong in the scrimmage against Harford Tech, Perryville, and Elkton.

The team had their first match against Perryville last Friday.

They fought hard but came up short.

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Everybody on the team had a good “Mr. Saturday Night Jr.” Ireton and match, but there were too many pins. Dean “The Machine” Roberts. Both Wins by Josh “Baby Face” Kapnek, are starting varsity. The team is Dean “The Machine” Roberts, Joe strong in all areas of the weight “The Fish” Hudson, Ryan “Mr. classes.

The lightweights, led by Saturday Night Jr.” and Gus “The Liberator” Saliaris gave the team Dean “The Machine” Roberts and confidence, but they were not enough Joe “The Fish” Hudson and to pull out a victory. The Perryville middleweights led by Gus “The team was made up of strong country Liberator” Saliaris and Greg boys that overpowered our JC “Shakira” Chrest. Captain Kyle “The West Point Cadet” wrestlers.

Practices this year is being Hoedebecke and Josh “Baby Face” run quite different than last year. This Kapnek lead the upper weights. The season heavy sweatshirts or sweatpants are not allowed to be worn because “the point of practice is not to lose weight, but to learn new moves,” said Coach Scholl. The team is concentrating Brendon Ireton’s skillful manuvers allow him to this year on its attitude dominate his oppnent from Perryville. towards winning. As in most sports, 90% of the game is warriors are putting their face paint on and sharpening their spears, mental.

The new freshman this year getting ready to do battle against the are looking strong, especially Ryan entire MIAA division.

Volume 37, Number 3

photo by Miyako Igari

have a great season.

There are many new faces on the wrestling squad including one new sophomore and seven new freshmen. The returning juniors and seniors are better prepared than last year and are looking to have a

photo by Miyako Igari

by Matt Garono Staff Writer

December 18, 2001