The Patriot June 2006, Issue 7, Vol 41

John Carroll School " Tradition " Pride

The

Patriot " Excellence

703 Churchville Road " Bel Air, MD 21014

INDEX

N E W S

Introduction of Tablet PCs in classrooms incite controversy.

page 2 Fine Arts and Senior Awards nights commend outstanding students and teachers.

page 3 F E A T U R E S

New diving techniques explored to help make summer swimming more enthralling.

page 6

E N Talent Show T E awes audiences, R free of charge.

T A I N M page 7 E N T Freshman tennis S player places P second in MIAA O championships.

R T S

page 8

Da Vinci

Faculty

John Carroll community says Code film goodbye to sev- thrills Leslie Fox eral departing Features co Editor members of its The book, much like the movie beloved faculty.

Shannon Murphy Business Manager Rumors have been running rapidly throughout the school about who will Þll Mr. Piercy’s recently vacated position as Dean of Students. That question was answered on May 31 when Mr. Vierheller was named the new Dean. However, the question of who will Þll the numerous other positions created by the departure of many teachers is still a mystery. Teachers who are leaving at the end of the school year include Mrs. Bair, Mr. Kell, Mrs. Urra, and Mrs. Molina.

Mr. Piercy will be transferring to Archbishop Curley in Northeast Baltimore at the start of next school year. He will be taking over the position of vice-president of academics. Mr. Piercy stated that this career decision was based on a prior search for an opening in the academic department and ability to expand his experience. Curley seems to have met his criteria.

Despite the longer commute to Curley, Mr. Piercy will not be moving his residence. He stated, “Curley really isn’t as far away as many think it is.” Mr. Piercy lives in Abingdon just off of 95, and will only be adding 15 to 20 minutes to his daily drive to work.

Mr. Piercy stated that he was also looking for a new environment. He has attended both public and private co-ed schools all his

photo by Jeff Gunnarsson

E D I T O R I A L S

Volume 41, Issue 7 " June 2006

Continued on page 3

Summer fun around the corner Hillary Livingston Copy co Editor

With the school year coming to a close and summer of ‘06 slowly but surely approaching, students and teachers are already talking about how they plan to spend their much needed break.

Whether they are embarking on an exciting vacation to visit family or to some exotic paradise,

have a list of colleges that they plan to visit, or are going to be lounging by the pool all summer, some are simply looking forward to the bliss of having absolutely nothing to do. Besides the usual school wide summer reading assignment, The Prison Angel, by Mary Jordan and Kevin Sullivan and the usual assignments for English that everyone will probably procrastinate to do until the last week of summer, students can

say goodbye to tests, projects, essays, and tests for almost three glorious and wonderful months.

Most students (and teachers!) have the countdown written in their planners (I take great joy in crossing out a day on the calendar of my planner every morning in homeroom). And thanks to Mother Nature for not blessing us with a hefty sum of snow days this winter, we now get out Continued on page 5

that opened May 19, opens with museum curator Jacques Sauniere (Jean-Pierre Marielle) staggering through the hallways of The Louvre Museum in Paris, trying to escape from a masked assailant.

He meets his untimely death, but not before leaving behind various clues that if followed correctly will ultimately lead to his killer and unmask a secret that has been closely guarded for thousands of years. If you do not have the slightest idea of what I am talking about, then chances are you have been living under a rock for the past year or so and my Þrst piece of advice to you is this: go out and buy The Da Vinci Code right this second because your life will not be complete without it.

As an avid Dan Brown reader (I started reading Dan Brown long before he was the Dan Brown), I can safely say, the New York Times bestseller The Da Vinci Code is Dan Brown’s writing at its best.

The novel is quick-paced, witty, at some times even humorous, and dares the reader to think outside the box—a quality that most contemporary novels lack.

However, even though the novel has become the greatest nonQuidditch related book in recent history, it seems that its readers are separated into two extreme categories: Most either love it or they hate it, and both sides of the spectrum are vocal about their views.

Cited as one of the most controversial books of our time, The Da Vinci Code has sparked a series of counter-pieces, documentaries and television specials discussing the different aspects of history that the novel uses as the backbone of its plot.

Brown’s novel focuses on Robert Langdon’s search for the most sought-after treasure in history: the Holy Grail. Except Langdon’s Holy Grail is not the one we have all come to know; it is the tomb of Mary Magdalene who, in Brown’s Þctional world, was once the wife of Jesus Christ. Those who criticize the book say that it is all just a bunch of blasphemy cleverly disguised as a novel, while others choose to look at it as an entertaining story that does little to insult their intelligence and keeps Continued on page 7

John Carroll School 703 Churchville Road, Bel Air, Maryland 21014 Volume 41, Issue 7, June 2006

co Editors in Chief: Jeff Gunnarsson Neha Prakash Editorials Editor: Kaity Ayuso News co Editors: Joe Christesen Lisa Krysiak Features co Editors: Leslie Fox Emily Lazor Ryan Leeb Mike Marll Entertainment co Editors: Courtney Baltimore Alli Kartachak Sports co Editors: Brady Collins Andy Wancowicz Roving Editor: Caitlin Toner Photography co Editors: Ali Steibe Kate Webb Business Manager: Shannon Murphy Managing Editor: Coleman Zurkowski Copy co Editors: Jillian Hughes Hillary Livingston Kate Martin Jaime Vigliotti Design Editors: Henry Basta Nick Johnson Moderator: Mr. Ionescu Staff: Tony Herman, Chris Wilson The Patriot is a publication of the students of John Carroll School. The views and opinions expressed in The Patriot are not necessarily the views and opinions of the Board or Administration of John Carroll School.

The editorial staff invites and greatly appreciates comments from readers on any issue.

editorials

Students debate new Tablet PCs Tablet PCs will ruin the next three years for students Kaity Ayuso Editorials Editor Each year, JC students welcome a new bunch of shy, slightly terriÞed freshmen into their school with open arms. Next year, however, will be different.

Why? Because the incoming Class of 2010 will be the Þrst class in JC history to receive its education through the high-tech Tablet PC, and current students are not thrilled.

According to Mr. Scholl, this revolution is “the most dramatic transformation of instruction in the history of this school.”

Dramatic as it may be, it’s still not fair to the rest of the students.

Current students work hard to succeed in school, and the only recognition they get for their achievements is a quick rundown of the Honor Roll at a monotonous assembly.

Mr. Scholl says, “No problems!

It’s going to be wonderful.”

What exactly will be wonderful about it? Will it be the prospect of clueless kids messing around with laptops because they think they are “cool” now, or could it be the teachers pitifully trying to teach a curriculum to a class using separate learning systems?

Mr. Scholl agrees that this innovation will, among other things, “limit the teacher’s ability to use online resources,” because only half of their students will have access to the internet in class.

While this scenario might only hold true for science and foreign language classes of the freshmen curriculum, it will only get worse when the laptop-equipped class surfs its way into sophomore year.

With several electives to choose from, there will be no end to the courses affected by the silly new “phase” system.

Dear Patriot Staff: I read your editorial in the April edition of The Patriot and on behalf of the Board of Trustees I respond to clarify and to correct certain points that you made.

The current Board of Trustees has not been appointed illegally. From 1993 until 2004, Board members were selected in accordance with the Bylaws which were in conßict with the Articles of Incorporation. But the elections held at the end of school years 2004, 2005 and this year, are all in conformity with the provisions of the Charter.

The Board of Trustees is not trying to disenfranchise the parents and teachers.

Cardinal Keeler and the Superintendent of Schools for the Archdiocese of Baltimore have “strongly suggested” that John Carroll should amend its method of selecting trustees because it is in the extended best interest of John Carroll to do so. Only a small group of parents and teachers ever

Volume 41, Number 7

Tablet PCs will prove essential to the future of JC

Although Mr. Scholl doesn’t see that as a signiÞcant problem, most of the student body would probably agree that it is.

This new “phase system” will do nothing but harm the current students of JC. They deserve to have every opportunity that incoming classes in the future will get.

If JC wants to make a positive impact as a school, it needs to focus on the present students.

Laptops could make a drastic difference in the school. However, excuses are made on behalf of the administration as to why this “dramatic transformation” cannot be utilized by everyone.

The administration continues to “phase” various aspects into

Next fall, JC will welcome the Class of 2010 to a brand new way of life with brand new experiences. The new students must adapt to a new dress code and be driven to school by their parents. The only “plus” for their freshman year is the fact will be the Þrst to be sporting a new style at JC. Every generation after them will follow in their footsteps and use tablets.

All the other year levels are envious and they should be. However, the only response I can think

the JC community without taking into consideration the interests of the student body. If laptops were to be distributed to every student, numerous problems would be avoided.

More importantly, the administration would be making changes to improve JC in the present, instead of limiting its aspirations to the future.

Regardless, it seems that this unwanted change will take place despite its popular disapproval, and all that the JC students can do is nod in agreement with Mr. Scholl and the administration and chant, “I’m excited about it…It’s going to be wonderful!”

to that is: suck it up. Freshman year, as adventurous as it may seem, doesn’t have much to look forward to.

Freshmen are too young to drive, they don’t have class rings, they can’t go to prom, and they are constantly separated from the older classes. They need something to separate them from the other classes and unify them as a class.

Seniors are uniÞed by the fact they will attending prom and graduating. Juniors are uniÞed by their class rings. Sophomores are uniÞed by the fact that they aren’t freshmen any more. Don’t freshmen deserve one uniting factor?

Henry Basta and Coleman Zurkowski Patriot Staff

photo by Nick Johnson

2 THE PATRIOT

vote to select new trustees. Especially in times of controversy, the Cardinal and Doctor Valenti are concerned that a small group of parents might be inclined to elect trustees who are committed to Þnancial or academic issues that they think will beneÞt them in the short term, but would not be in the best interests of the school in the long term. So too, a small minority of faculty members voting for new trustees could impact the extended future of the school by supporting trustees who favor a particular candidate for a principal who is not favored by parents or the search committee. A minority of faculty could elect trustees who want large faculty salary and beneÞt increases to the Þnancial detriment of the school’s health.

If the Charter amendment does not pass, the Board will continue to have some difÞculty Þnding new trustees. A few very skilled candidates whom we have interviewed were reluctant to offer their services and time to the board because of the possibility of being rejected by a small group of faculty and parents who didn’t know them well. These candidates have told us that the elections held at the annual

The

meeting make them feel as if they are contestants at a beauty pageant.

Under an amended charter, faculty and parents still will always have a direct and signiÞcant say in board decisions. Parents will always Þll approximately one-third of the seats on the board as they do now. In addition, the President of the Parent Association and the Faculty Representative from the FEC are both permanent trustees.

They are part of board discussions and they present a report at every meeting. It is important that there is honesty and open communication between the board and faculty and parents. I have never known either constituency to shy away from sharing their perspectives on any important matter. The board is very much aware how important the faculty and parents are to policy making.

Your editorial was written before the meeting was held on April 26 in the gym.

At that meeting, and before the vote was taken, an open forum was held for the Board of Trustees to answer every question and to respond to every concern that parents and teachers presented. You were there as well. I hope you felt, as we do,

Patriot

This issue seems to be apparent through the introduction of the new Tablet PCs. Many complain that it is unjust to give only the freshmen laptops instead of the whole student body.

Students always criticize the administration for not thinking of the students. Well, maybe it is the students who are not thinking of the administration.

I guess it is hard for some students to see what is right when they are blindfolded by pride.

The incoming freshmen class is simply a test for the administration; a chance for the administration to work out all the kinks in bringing these laptops into JC. In other words, the students’ actions and reactions will determine the education of future students.

If PC tablets are given to all students at once, the trend in technology would crash down like a wave on the administration.

The “phase system” is the modest approach to the new wave of technology in JC. Phasing in Tablet PCs allows the administration to take on technology one year at a time.

Since JC students are currently inexperienced with learning from laptops, a “phasing” approach is essential.

On the other hand, if the administration takes on four classes with PC tablets, the step in technology would run out of control due to various problems, stress, and confusion.

Although it might appear unfair, it would be best to take on technology slowly at Þrst rather than jump the gun. Keeping the technology integration process contained would allow the administration and student body to keep the process under control.

Unless the students help support the future of JC by becoming a sponge and sucking it up, we will be crushed under a wave of technology into an ocean of failure.

that the discussion was candid and forthright. But only 31 parents and faculty attended the meeting. If this had been an annual meeting to elect Trustees, it would have been possible for 16 votes to affect a lifetime of change - change that they believe would beneÞt them but perhaps would not help everyone else.

As you know, there were insufÞcient votes cast to approve the Charter amendment. There were 425 votes in favor of the amendment. Only 21 voted against it. Cardinal Keeler and Superintendent Dr. Valenti have requested that we hold another meeting to see if the amendment can be approved. We simply don’t have enough time before graduation this year to comply with the law and hold a timely meeting. We expect that such a meeting will be scheduled for the early fall.

Thank you for participating in the discussion of this issue. You end your editorial with the statement, “I ask that you make the choice that you feel is right for yourself and for our school community.” I cannot say it better myself.

Sincerely, Augustus F. Brown

June 2006

news

3

Lisa Krysiak News co Editor The students, faculty, and parents of JC have to be prepared for some changes for next year.

Some of our most famous faces are leaving, and throughout the school some structural changes will be made in the library, the canopy, and the school store.

With all incoming freshmen now required to have tablet computers, half of the storage room in the library will be equipped with technology to teach the students the ropes of tablet using. According to Mrs. Dearing, “Half of the work room is becoming a ‘help desk’ for the tablets.”

Also as an aid for the class of 2010, a “computer camp” will be held over the summer to show the students how to use the tablets.

There will be two sessions, one in mid-July and one from the end of July to the beginning of August.

NHS students have been given the opportunity to work at this camp to gain 25 service hours, 12 going towards their yearly NHS requirement and 13 towards the school requirement.

The library is not the only place undergoing a visual change in the school. The space in front of the building that includes the canopy and the fountain will also be altered. The fountain is being completely removed. Mr. Barker commented, “It never worked properly.” He also added, “The school wants the big tree out front to be the “focal point” outside as visitors walk in.”

Mr. Barker also said that the renovation to the canopy “needs to be done.” A portion of the canopy was built and the fountain

was renovated when the Brown Room was built, but adjustments still need to be made, as it still leaks every time it rains and is not a welcoming sight to anyone walking into the building.

Along with the library and outside, the school store will be undergoing some modiÞcations.

The Booster’s Club will be taking over its management, its hours of operation will change, and new merchandise will be sold. A ßyer was mailed to parents and posted on the JC website in hopes of gaining feedback as to what would be most beneÞcial to the new store.

According to Mr. Barker, the school wants to the store to be “more merchandising.” “We want to see the students wearing John Carroll stuff,” he said.

However, the biggest change with the store is that it will no longer be selling school books or buying books back. Beginning next year, these processes will be going through Varsitybooks.com.

More information on the site and detailing the book sale and buy back procedures will be given to students and parents at a later date.

Other signiÞcant renovations that will be made deserve to be mentioned as well. The auditorium roof will be resealed and one original boiler will be removed, to be replaced by two smaller ones.

Mr. Barker said that this will be “vastly more energy efÞcient.”

There is also a chance that the student parking lot will be repaved. Core samples have been taken to analyze the condition of the lot itself.

From the fountain to the school store, changes are being made everywhere at JC.

photo by Neha Prakash

Administration plans changes for 06-07 school year

Seniors Caitlin Keilty (left) and senior Chris Susio (right) pose for a picture with their Black and Gold Awards. The Black and Gold Award is the most prestigious award given to a senior.

Seniors, Fine Arts honored Tony Herman Contributing Writer

On Wednesday, May 10 and Thursday, May 11, some JC students received their chance to be recognized and commended for their accomplishments and particular skills.

And for once, this isn’t about an athletic banquet.

The auditorium played host on May 10 to the annual Fine Arts Awards Night. Students received awards in a variety of different areas, from still-life paintings to dramatics, and from the yearbook to the band.

This night was different from all previous others though, in that it would be the last awards night for Mrs. Bair, the band director amongst a host of other jobs around school. She is retiring after 25 years of dedication to JC. At the end of the night, the Barbershop Quartet from the spring play “The Music Man” sang a farewell tribute. Chris Guzman, one of the tenors, said that the

Students say goodbye to teachers “Teachers,” from page 1 life, and is anxious to have the experience of working at an all boy school. “I’m looking forward to a single sex setting; I’m pretty excited,” stated Mr. Piercy.

Although Mr. Piercy is anticipating his new job at Curley, he will miss many things here at JC. He said one thing that he will miss the most are his colleagues. He’ll miss his day to day visits with his co-workers, and the friendships that he has gained with those that helped to “keep him sane” during his long, hard days in JC. Ultimately, Mr. Piercy is looking to broaden his experience, have a change of setting, and take a step further in accomplishing his goal of being a principal in the Baltimore Archdiocese.

“Mr. Piercy has done a great job here. He took his job seriously, and I hope that they can

June 2006

Þnd someone just as good to take over,” stated junior Regina DiPaula.

JC administration will have to hire other teachers as well. Mr. Kell will be leaving at the end of this year, but when approached Mr. Kell stated that he wished to remain anonymous and appear invisible. The quirkiness of Mr. Kell’s teaching will be unforgettable, and he will be missed by many of his students.

Mrs. Urra will be leaving us as well when this year is completed.

She will be getting married this summer and moving in with her Þancé, Patrick, in Washington D.C. Mrs. Urra will begin work with a local D.C. high school, Gonzaga, on a service project.

When asked what she’ll miss most about JC, Mrs. Urra responded in two words, “the students.”

The band teacher, Mrs. Bair, is responsible for bringing a real

band to JC. She stated, “When I Þrst arrived here there was only a small band whose uniform was a gold blazer, and there was no drum major. I helped create a real music program, and I’m really proud of what I’ve accomplished.”

Although she has had many accomplishments within JC, Mrs. Bair will also be leaving us. Mrs. Bair’s worried about what the upcoming year has to bring, because she doesn’t have a plan of what she wants to do, but she’s thinking about making a career in elementary education.

Along with Mrs. Bair, Mrs. Molina, the orchestra teacher is leaving as well. Some students are not happy with this, reßected in a petition made as an attempt to keep her here. Losing her is just one of the unfortunate changes being made to the JC faculty for the upcoming year. Clearly, she

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four “wanted to do something really special for her … something that she would always remember, and something that meant a lot to the four of us who sang goodbye to her.”

The whole idea for an awards night was Mrs. Bair’s idea. She believed that students who choose to participate in activities other than athletics should be rewarded for all they have accomplished.

Many JC students agree wholeheartedly with the Fine Arts Night and look forward to it every year.

Christian Zurkowski, who won “Best in Show” for painting and drawing, said, “Even if it is your Þrst year taking an art class, your work can still win prizes, which is really cool.”

The night after was a bit more of a formal affair, as everybody in attendance was dressed to impress for the Annual Senior Awards Night.

Though attendance is not required by anybody except for faculty, many seniors routinely come to the night, as a plethora of

awards and scholarships are given out for many different reasons to many different students.

However, the Senior Awards are always the site of the two major acclamations: The Teacher of the Year Award, and the Black and Gold Awards. Both are similar in that the recipients do not know that they won ahead of time, so all who could be considered have to write speeches every year.

Mr. Jake Hollin, who is head of the history department along with being a well-liked teacher and wrestling coach, won the Teacher of the Year Award.

The Black and Gold Awards are given every year to the two seniors who best exempliÞed the qualities of the ideal JC student They were given to Chris Susio and Caitlin Keilty.

Chris said of the honor, “I was actually really surprised I won, and I’m glad Caitlin won too.”

Keilty, though, should not have been surprised, as she was the biggest winner among the seniors that night.

Fine Arts Award Winners Photography Best in Show- Christian Zurkowski 1st Place- Brianna McNamarra 2nd Place- Bret Lubertine 3rd Place- Savanna Scroggins

Ceramics 1st Place- Amanda Johnson 2nd Place Dan Getz 3rd Place Catherine Subrizi

Volume 41, Number 7

news

4

News Briefs World Briefs Local Briefs

Joe Christesen News co Editor During the weeks leading up to graduation, the National Honor Society lived up to the ideal of bettering the community by ßexing its manual labor muscles and clearing up the courtyard area.

By cleaning up the courtyard, the NHS members hope to make the courtyard aesthetically pleasing for graduation.

The beautiÞcation project was in operation from May 15 up until graduation. The plans to make the courtyard better included clearing leaf litter, weeding, cutting down trees, and planting new ßowers.

For weeks, members of the NHS came on multiple days to help make sure that the courtyard is all ready for graduation.

“I’m glad I can make the seniors’ graduation better,” said junior Meaghan Moxley. She

helped weed the outer areas of the courtyard to make it possible to plant ßowers.

Even seniors like Kevin Turek, Richard Trujillo, and Jen Sacks came back to JC after their year was complete to help out in the gardening going on in the courtyard.

When they came back, they were met with the task of chopping down the medium-sized trees and replanting the saplings.

“I’m glad we’re cleaning it up so it looks beautiful for our graduation,” says senior Jen Sacks.

Some students have come back more than once to help out, such as next year’s Student Activity Council president Kyle Hanratty.

On the Þrst day he came to work, the weather was rainy, but it did not dampen their efforts.

“We still had fun in the rain,” said Kyle “Though the rain hampered work, it helped moral among

workers.”

Kyle wanted to help out some more when he passed by the courtyard and saw all the hard workers. “I just saw people working, and I wanted to help out.”

Some of the students come just for the fun of it. Meghan Moxley said she just “enjoys gardening.”

The beautiÞcation project, however, may also have another purpose. The administration has been talking about allowing students back into the courtyard for next year.

“It’s a possibility for next year,” said Mrs. J.K. as she weeded the garden. The main goal of the NHS, though, is to make sure it is ready for graduation.

“This may also be a group service project for the NHS every spring,” said Mrs. J.K. So just like the ducks in the courtyard, the NHS will try to come back every spring.

Charter amendment debated A meeting to amend the school charter, open to faculty, parents, and one interested journalist, was held on April 26. The issue at stake was whether the school charter should be remanded to agree with the school by-laws instituted in 1993. SpeciÞcally, the method for appointing new members to the board was being addressed.

The purpose of the meeting on April 26th was to address questions and disagreements with the proposed change and then hold a vote for all eligible members of the school community present at the meeting.

The meeting began at 7 PM, with a question and answer session with Chairman of the Board Gus Brown. To the right are some of the quotes by those present.

Volume 41, Number 7

“The Archdiocese informed me that this is not a democracy.”

- Augustus Brown “We (the teachers ) are the h of the sc eart hool. For us to giv the vote is e up a lmost una “It is wholl merican.” y unorthod ox to cond a vote with - Frau Pott uct the entire er c ommunity - Orsia You ...” ng, Head o f Committe e on Trustee “I have concluded s that, in the long run, the charter amendment is in the best interest of the school.” m o c e eption of th ir.”

- Augustus Brown “...the perc fa n at this is u y b le p munity is th p - Mr. A “Would the Board consider the possibility of a voting member on the board from parents, teachers, and students?”

- Mrs. Russell

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Photo by harfordcountymd,gov

NHS cleans up courtyard

On Friday, May 26, 2006, a 23 year old man was killed in downtown Bel Air in a case of teenage rage. The man’s name was not released to the public. Two teens, ages 16 and 19, slit the man’s throat in the parking lot outside of the Harford County Health Department building. It is believed the teens and the man did not know each other. According to Police Chief Leo Matrangola the two suspects were arrested within minutes of the incident itself. The murder occurred in mid-afternoon, around 2 p.m., and was the Þrst murder in the town of Bel Air in two decades.

www. georgeblowfish.com/hoffa.gif

NHS used their group service project to rejuvenate the courtyard for graduation. This work may also help to open up the courtyard for students to use during the 2006-2007 school year.

The search for Jimmy Hoffa was called off May 29 after digging in a suburban Detroit horse farm. The search lasted for two week and called upon the aid of anthropologists, archaeologists, cadaver-snifÞng dogs, and a demolition crew. Hoffa went missing on July 30, 1975 when he was scheduled to have dinner 20 miles away from the Detroit Farm house. He is believed to have been killed by two mobsters to prevent Hoffa from reclaiming his position as head of the Teamsters. However, no evidence has been found and no one has been tried. Over the years many have speculated to where Hoffa is located. Some of the theories propose that he was buried in Giants Stadium or obliterated in a mobowned fat rendering plant.

Gruesome murder rocks downtown Bel Air

New 10 hour direct service Beltway sniper requirement this year found guilty for starts Starting this year, there is a

six shootings

Beltway sniper, John Allen Muhammad, was found guilty in Maryland on May 30 for six murders after four hours of deliberation by the jury. He was already convicted in Virginia and received the death penalty. The most he can receive in Maryland is life in prison without parole for the six killings. During the four week trial, Muhammad acted as his own lawyer and called his accomplice, Lee Boyd Malvo, as his star witness. After the verdict Muhammad asked the judge if he could speak, and the judge denied him as Muhammad was escorted away. Malvo testiÞed that Muhammad was planning bombings of schools and children’s hospitals after the six shootings.

new addition to JC’s community service requirement. Included in the mandatory 60 hours must be a minimum of 10 hours of “direct service.” This is performed by having a direct relationship with the person you are working. This can be acquired by working with the sick and elderly at a nursing home, or tutoring at a special needs school. All service must be approved by Sister Maryanne before it is performed. The other 50 hours may be normal service to the community, such as volunteering at the American Red Cross, soup kitchens, or working at a school function.

www. baltimoresun.com/media/photo/2002

photo by Ali Steibe

FBI search for Jimmy Hoffa at Detroit farm house called off

June 2006

features

5

Let’s face it, most of the restaurants in Bel Air are chain restaurants. They are always loud and a little bit chaotic. Well there seems to be a tiny, little place in the heart of Bel Air that is trying to change all of that called the “Open Door Café,” It takes the place of the old bagel shop across from Record and Tape Traders. The opening of this new restaurant gives more choice between choosing Chili’s or Taco Bell.

I decided to try out this new restaurant with my friend Sarah.

She and I had dinner to test out the food, even though we were tempted to ditch the whole idea upon seeing the huge coffee bar, which is located in front, just to try out the delicious and differentßavored coffees.

But we Þgured that passing out on the ßoor from a caffeine overdose wouldn’t look too good.

Walking further in, the store completely transforms into a cute little Parisian café. The walls are hand painted like French shops, with vines sweeping along the room in order to complete the feel.

There was even a cat painted on the wall, peering out a shop window, which my friend Sarah spotted halfway through dinner.

She was then forced to declare her love of kittens a little too loudly, receiving odd stares from other customers.

Overall the place has quite a cozy and homey feel. The atmosphere is very light; you’re instantly greeted by a smiling hostess who is more than happy to show you your seat.

Once seated, we looked over the menu, and I was quite sur-

prised by the relatively cheap prices. I was deÞnitely expecting to drop some major bills on this meal.

Entrees on the menu ranged in price from ten to eighteen dollars, which makes it easy on high school students’ wallets. Everything looked so scrumptious!

Sarah and I ordered hummus (a spread made out of chickpeas with chili pepper powder on top served with pita bread) and a cheese and fruit plate as our appetizers.

For our entrees I ordered spinach and sun dried tomato ravioli (which was absolutely delicious), and Sarah got an herb-encrusted chicken which looked like it was cut in the shape of a heart with veggies.

From what we had, the food was excellent and Sarah was impressed that the chicken came in such a wondrous shape; whether that was intentional or not we may never know.

By the end of our meal, we were stuffed more than your grandmother’s turkey at thanksgiving. It didn’t help that they had seated us near the dessert display case, with the Mile High cheesecake screaming my name.

Fearing that my poor little stomach would not be able to take any more yummy food, I passed on dessert.

Our server, Giuliana, handed us our bill and thanked us for coming. She was one of the nicest waitresses they had.

If you’re looking for a nice experience this is deÞnitely the place to go. The Open Door Café has spiritual roots, too. It draws its message which is written on the back on the menu to inspire yourself and others.

Their message, “We hope that you will Þnd The Open Door Café

(Above) The Bel Air surroundings of the Open Door Cafe do not do justice to the dining area.

It is tastefully decorated with classy, comphy furniture and wall adornments.

(Right) The Open Door Cafe is located off of Route 1, situated between Hallmark, Taco Bell, and Chili’s. The restaurant celebrated its grand opening on Mothers’ Day weekend. to be one of your favorite communities. It is our desire to offer a common gathering ground that is refreshingly different,” proves true after you experience a Þlling meal there.

The Open Door Café even sells tickets to events with 95 One WRBS, a local Christian radio station, and on their website (www.open-door-cafe.com) you can check for possible upcoming music events taking place.

The Open Door Café obvi-

photo by Emily Lazor

Caitlin Toner Roving Editor

photo by Emily Lazor

Open Door Café opens new Harford dining style

ously wants to leave you with a good impression and inspire you to come back for more. It brings positive energy into the community by targeting what people love: food.

Besides dinner, they also serve breakfast, brunch (Sundays only), and lunch. And, of course, dessert, coffee, and various mixed drinks (try the Mexican hot chocolate!).

It opens at 6:30 am regularly and stays open till 10 pm at night.

Whether you’re on the run or just need a strong caffeine Þx, their full-service coffee is more than willing to provide you with a refreshing treat.

With its positive message and attractive coffee bar it will probably become one of the hottest places in town.

Students plan summer activities, consider possibilities “Summer,” from page 1

two days earlier than originally planned. Harford County Public Schools, on the other hand, have to actually make up the measly amount of snow days missed during the winter and do not get out until June 13.

Be sure to thank JC administrators for granting us two extra, blessed days of summer.

So just what are some JC students up to this summer?

Sophomore Brock Brookes stated, “I’m going to drive around, party, and not read any summer reading books.”

Freshman Hannah Schoppert said that she will be going to Ocean City, to hang out on the beach.

Mr. Hollin would like to spend his vacation time with his four daughters and wife.

Other students are going out of town, like junior Kate Halbruner, who is going on a Southern Caribbean Cruise and to South Carolina. Junior Laura Perry says she is going to Quebec, Canada,

Volume 41, Number 7

and to Niagara Falls as well as to the beach.

Many students, however, are going to be busy with summer jobs. Perry says she is going to be working as a hostess at Bill Bateman’s and junior Susie Horne will be working as a receptionist at the Ramada Hotel.

Juniors Matt Ebner and Amanda Adams will be working at snowball stands in Forest Hill and in Bel Air, and both agree they look forward to the good tips and experimenting with new ßavors when it’s not busy.

Junior David Dukes will be working as a lifeguard at the Aberdeen Swim Club where he says he will be sitting around the pool and cleaning.

Junior Matt Falter says, “I’ll be working at Coldstone, which is, like, the best job ever.”

When asked what goals students want to achieve this summer, most students answered with

absolutely nothing. “Summer is a time to be lazy and recover from a year of school,” remarked junior Amanda Adams.

Mr. McAdams would like to start a vegetable garden with tomatoes and red peppers.

Perhaps you’re one of the many students who are going to take part in the summer sports camps held every year at JC. Boys camps for this year include basketball, baseball, lacrosse, soccer, wrestling, and football.

Girls camps include softball, Þeld hockey, lacrosse, soccer, and cheerleading. Tennis and volleyball are also offered camps as well and are both co-ed. For more information, you can check out the JC website, www.johncarroll.org/.

Freshmen and sophomores have their class trips to look forward to being held on Monday, June 12. Freshmen will be going to Hershey Park and sophomores will be going to Kings

The

Patriot

Dominion in Virginia.

Incoming sophomores also have the opportunity to bypass the required computer science course.

Unlike past years, this year the students who signed up will be able to use the Tom & Sam online tutorial from their homes to prepare for the test.

Testing will be held from July 10-24 for one two-hour test per day. All tests must be passed in order for students to bypass the course.

Most upcoming seniors plan on making numerous college visits this summer to give them some

direction for Þguring out where they want to go after their school days at JC are over.

Dukes says he will be visiting the University of Tampa in Florida as well as possibly visiting the University of San Diego in California. Junior Kyle Hanratty, on the other hand, will be spending the week after we get out of school at West Point in New York for a college preview.

When asked what he will do when the last day of school Þnally rolls around, freshman Jon Hartman says, “I want to buy a big bag of caramels because they make me feel better.”

... your child’s medical home Generosa C. Lazor, MD, FAAP Board CertiÞed in Pediatrics 2103 Laurel Bush Road, Suite A Bel Air, MD 21015 410-569-9533 June 2006

features

6

The

nde e t t A t s Mo llege #

College

Count

Up: Class of

%

d

y Co ommunit Harford C ing ts Attend - 27 Studen

Closest

Fa r t hest

# Goucher College % Morgan State

# University of Tampa % Embry-Riddle

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rsity son Unive ing & Tow ts Attend - 12 Studen Institute olytechnic Virginia P ing $ ts Attend - 11 Studen Park d: College of Marylan University ' Attending 8 Students

-

Aeronautical Univer

& Flagler College $ Georgia Institute of

sity

' College of Notre Dame ( Loyola College ) University of Delaware * Villa Julie College + University of Maryland:

Technology

' University of Notre Dame

( Savannah College of Art and Design

Fact: Most seniors are ) College of Charleston Baltimore Cou nty choosing to attend a college * Coastal Carolina University , York College on the east coast, as the + High Point University most western college beFact: These statistics were University of North ing attended by a JC grad of , Caro lina: Greensboro created based on the college 2006 is University of Notre choices of the 199 members Dame in Notre Dame, IN. of the class of 2006.

photo by Ryan Leeb

2006

University & Robert Paul School of Cosmetolog y $ Towson University

Test your pool diving personality Ryan Leeb Features co Editor There is a stark difference between watching and seeing.

When you watch something, you view it at face-value, getting no deep meaning out of the acts you observe. Seeing, however, is an art-- getting a clear understanding of the reasons and implications of The Regular Dive: You’re a classic. Reserved, but at times self-conscious. You are a follower.

The Jackknife: You are a natural-born leader. You deserve all of the blessings you have, but you are a workaholic.

The Front Flip: You aim to please others, and often jump headÞrst into problems fearlessly.

Volume 41, Number 7

an act just by knowing why one would be compelled to do such a thing.

In the upcoming summer months, you will deÞnitely be faced with the opportunity to go swimming at a pool, and therefore have the opportunity to approach a diving board, and therefore have the opportunity to watch other people dive off it.

The Belly Flop: You are by far the most underachieving member of you clique of friends.

Nobody really likes you. You generally have bad pit stains.

The “Run”: (Think Jack Black in Orange County) County) You’re obnoxious, and you should probably think about ways to change that.

According to a well-documented and important study performed by many high-ranking sociologists at Yale University (that I dare not list, due to the project’s top-secret nature), a person’s choice in dives and tricks off of the diving board reßects much about their personality. What’s your dive, and what does it reveal about you?

The Back Flip: You often disregard the implications of your actions, but you are rambunctious and fun to be around.

The Melon Drop: You like to be the center of attention, but you are unsure to what extent you are willing to go to get noticed.

The Cannonball: You’re not conÞdent in yourself, but you know and accept that. Or, you’re just kindof lumpy.

The

Patriot

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November 2005

7 entertainment The Da Vinci Code: Rated PG 13 “Da Vinci,” from page 1

www.brc.dcs.gla.ac.uk/~actan/galery.html

them on the edge of their seats.

Very rarely are there movies that do justice to the novels on which they are based. I was dreading the day I would see the theatrical version of my favorite book because I knew the disappointment I would feel leaving the theatre would be heartbreaking.

Starring Tom Hanks as Robert Langdon and directed by Academy Award winning director Ron Howard, the screen version of “The Da Vinci Code” hit theaters on May 19, 2006, sparking the second biggest worldwide weekend opening of all time.

“While the movie was good,” junior Alyson Jacques explains, “it doesn’t begin to compare to

the novel.”

Alyson’s reaction seems to mirror those who ßed to the movies this past weekend to see the movie only after reading the book.In fact, it is almost shocking how many aspects (like Langdon’s claustrophobia and Teabing’s test of honor) actually make it into the movie.

Ron Howard does an impressive job of staying true to Brown’s novel by adding the little things that die-hard fans are looking for. Yet, sometimes it appears as if Howard is playing it just a little too safe. Hanks’ acting is good enough, but his version of Robert Langdon, the unlikely hero portrayed in the novel, is not nearly as geeky (besides the long hair) and, well, Robert enough.

“It was slow,” said junior Matt Ebner. “It took forever to pick up, but it was still good.”

While some did complain that the movie was not nearly as fast-paced as the novel, others also felt that it was a little too rushed.

While Brown could go on

for pages about cracking a code in the novel, it seemed like writers of the movie tried to cram everything into two and a half hours, losing some of the signiÞcance in the process.

One of the best aspects of the novel was Þguring out the clues. It made the audience feel cheated when one minute Robert was just sort of standing around and the next minute he just had all the answers.

“Reading the book was like being right there in the thick of everything,” explained junior Greg Lomonico. “You didn’t get that with the movie. It was kind of disappointing.”

Despite the bleak reviews that critics gave it, audiences ßocked to theaters on the Þlm’s opening weekend, making “The Da Vinci Code” the Þrst major blockbuster of the season.

While the movie was good, it was almost destined to pale in comparison to Dan Brown’s masterpiece. So, if you saw it and you liked it, I suggest you read the book.

It is even better.

By Leslie Fox

The TV ‘Real World’ Talent almost gone to waste vs. the real world Jillian Hughes Copy co Editor

Courtney Baltimore Entertainment co Editor The reality television show epidemic has swept through every young teenager’s household and continues to enthrall minds of our younger generation at an unhealthy pace. “American Idol,” “Survivor,” “The Real World,” “The Simple Life,” and “My Super Sweet Sixteen,” just a few hit shows, never cease to create a buzz of excitement within the hallways of JC. Junior John Hussar admits, “‘Real World’ is deÞnitely my favorite show because it’s so provocative.”

Others prefer more competitive and concentrated shows to the frivolous MTV ones.

JC student Brittany Furst prefers “The Apprentice” because, “the board room is really intense.”

Money, lies, sex, and drama always seem to be the principle concepts that are considered when producing a reality show. These are the issues that sell intrigue and fascination to the audience.

Junior Alyson Jacques would argue, “Some people can’t help but feed off of the drama of other peoples lives!”

Nevertheless, there are still those who are annoyed by the stupid and meaningless concepts of

June 2006

some reality shows.

“I don’t really care for reality television because it gives me a headache,” says freshman Travis Crevecoeur.

The argument that is potentially developed when it comes to reality shows, is where to draw the line. It seems as though every possible scenario has been created as to what a single human being would endure for a million dollars.

Junior, Matt Mahaffey confesses, “If I were a contestant on “Fear Factor,” I would be willing to shave off all of my body hair, bake it into a quiche, and eat it for a million dollars.”

TLC’s “What Not To Wear,” though, takes a random individual with an awkward fashion sense and turns them into a fashion icon in the matter of three days and $5,000. On the other side of the spectrum, ABC created “Extreme Makeover,” which gives someone the opportunity to change every selfconscious ßaw from their looks, to their homes in an effort to boost their self esteem.

Kyle Hanratty sums it up well: “They started out as good entertainment, but more recently when you’re taking things like ‘American Idol”, and turning it into ‘Dance Idol’, it’s getting pretty ridiculous.”

It was deÞnitely worth Þve dollars. Maybe even ten. The almost-cancelled JC talent show deserved more attention than it received.

At 7:45 a.m. on May 25, 2006 the decision to cancel the Þrstever JC talent show was made.

By Wednesday afternoon, only nineteen tickets were sold. No one would be “busting a move like Usher, or singing like Kelly Clarkson” anytime soon.

According to Mr. V, the JC student body only supports school functions like homecoming and prom because “they are about girls getting dressed up and guys wanting to be around girls that are dressed up.” He jokingly added that, “next year we’re going to have a formal talent show so everyone can get dressed up and people can go look at them.”

However, the low ticket sales and poor support did not stop talented JC students. Being the creative masterminds they are, the cast of the show formed their own plan.

“Even if there was 20 people coming, we still wanted to play,” said junior Allie Landry.

And they did so. The show went on. And much to the surprise of the cast, about 60 people showed up.

The show offered a variety of different acts from stand-up comedy to instrumental music.

Freshmen Nick Temple and Evan Conley put on Abbott and Costello’s skit “Who’s On First” with amazing delivery. Mr. Johnson also entertained the crowd with his comic skills as he talked about his childhood years and his days teaching at JC. Sophomore Coleman Zurkowski participated in two of the show’s acts, an original composition on keyboard, and also collaborated

with Sophomore Jay Karolenko, as the two played another original, this time with Jay on keyboard and Coleman on drums.

Senior Anna Hagan also participated in two acts, one a ßute solo and the other a duet with junior Katie Johnson of “Don’t Go Breaking My Heart.” A dance act was thrown in as well, by juniors Stephanie Ward and Alyson Jacques, who performed to their own choreography.

Solo guitar acts were popular, including performances from senior Julian Maliszewski and sophomore Vince Salamone. The guitarists, drummers, vocalists, and keyboarders all came together for one collaborative act as well.

Julie Powers, Allie Landry, Anna Gallen, and Mike Marll put together a band and sang Semisonic’s “Closing Time” and Hot Hot Heat’s “Middle of Nowhere.”

Altogether, it was certainly an afternoon that should not have been missed, and never have been cancelled.

Top 3 Summer Activities

Travel:

Whether it’s a grand tour of Europe, or simply a weekend in OC, the undisputed best way to spend your time is traveling. Its been said that the best way to learn life lessons is through travel. So go! Learn! Live!

Bond with friends: No, not just “hang out.” Learn about each other, but

more importantly, learn to love each other. In the end, all we have is determined by relationships with people.

EAT: It’s a JC talent, and we all need to embrace our destiny and become fully enthralled in gluttony.

The

Patriot

Volume 41, Number 7

sports

8 UVA shoots past UMass to win 2006 NCAA lax title

Spring Athletic Banquet Results High School, contributed two goals

When one thinks of sports that can be played throughout life, usually golf, tennis, and bowling, if bowling is considered a true “sport,” are the Þrst to come to mind. Then, there are a few others such as softball and soccer where parents are allowed to jump in on their children’s games at the recreational and sometimes at the high school level.

However, I would venture to say that lacrosse probably is not a sport that is usually thought of as spanning the test of time. I mean seriously, how many people can claim that their grandfather and grandmother pick up sticks and go to toss a lacrosse ball back and forth on warm summer afternoons?

Well, apparently that percentage will soon be rising because, as evidenced by the Old Timers Lacrosse Game held yearly at JC, lacrosse is becoming a socalled “lifetime sport.” Each year, more and more men in their forties and Þfties are joining ageless wonder Mr. Ed Miller on the Þeld for this contest, held traditionally on the Sunday morning of JC Country Fair Weekend.

This year, a total of forty men swarmed Gerry Gray Field for the contest. Of these competitors, who “clearly enjoy each others company” according to Mr. Miller, nearly half were over the age of forty.

The games are always “spirited” and “show [their] true feelings for the game and the school.” This year’s contest was no exception as the game ended in a 4-4 tie.

In fact, JC alumnus and parent Mr. McGuirk, 52, was the leading scorer in the contest putting three balls in the back of the net for the “Odd Year” team (the teams are divided based on graduating year).

Meanwhile, for the “Even Team,” alumnus Pete Carroll, in his forties, scored two goals and added an assist.

In the 2005 contest, alumnus Jim Ward of the Class of 1970 came back to man the pipes and posted a solid effort.

Looking back on the contests over the years, Mr. Miller fondly notes the dedication of these players to keep coming back to compete.

By far the most memorable moment of these contest occurs when Mr. Miller “makes an appearance” for about Þve minutes at the end of each game sporting his equipment from his glory days in the 1950’s.

Brady Collins Sports co Editor The goal of any high school athlete is to make a name for themselves inside their conference. Most plan to do accomplish this by their senior, or at best their junior year. Tim Lozinak has done that his freshman year, by Þnishing second in the MIAA “A” Conference individual championships. Many regard Lozinak as the top tennis player in the conference, which is a major accomplishment for any athlete, let alone

a freshman. Tim dominated all competitors in the “A” conference, which the boys tennis team moved up to this year. He helped lead the team to a 6-4 record, which led to a Þfth place Þnish in the season among a tough MIAA “A” Conference. He lost in a close match to Gilman senior Ted Kelly in back-toback sets 6-1, 6-4 in the championship match. Up to the Þnal match, Lozinak had not lost a set in the playoffs. Overall, it was a very successful season for freshman tennis star Tim Lozinak, who will surely be the favorite in the MIAA “A” Conference in the 2007 season.

Boys Lacrosse:

Matt Rayburn, Senior

Girls Lacrosse:

Chelsea Ford, Senior

Boys Track:

Kevin Turek, Senior

Girls Track:

Jess O’Brien, Senior

Baseball: Jeremy Finck, Senior

Softball: Angela DiBennedito, Junior

Golf: Brett Heller, Senior

Rugby: Adam Devine, Senior

Boys Tennis: Tim Lozinak, Freshman

Badminton: Aurora Szoka, Junior

photo by Ali Steibe

Andy Wancowicz Sports co Editor

and two assists.

Freshmen played a key role for the “Kip Turner is God’s gift to the Cavs all season and the title game was goal,” remarks sophomore Jaime Vi- no exception as Danny Glading scored gliotti. a goal and added three assists and GarTurner’s dominance along with an rett Billings contributed an assist. ever potent offensive attack powered In the net, Turner was credited the Virginia Cavaliers to their sixth with six stops, but played far bigger NCAA Division I Men’s Lacrosse Na- than that between the pipes. Each of tional Championship and third since his saves seemed to come during the 1998 (1999, 2003, and now 2006). game’s deÞning moments.

Surprise Þnalist UMass was no Matt Ward was named the tournamatch losing 15-7 and becoming the ment’s Most Outstanding Player after seventeenth team to fall to the Cavs setting a tournament record by scoring sixteen goals in the four games. this season.

Seniors Matt Ward and Matt Poskay Ward is also expected to be named the led the Virginia attack with Þve goals Tewaaraton Trophy winner, awarded each. Fellow senior Kyle Dixon added to the best player in Division I Men’s two goals and an assist. In addition, Lacrosse.

Ward, Dixon, Poskay, Glading, and sophomore Ben Rubeor, from Loyola senior Michael Culver were named to the all-tournament team.

After experiencing the agony of last year’s loss in the title game to Johns Hopkins University, Kip Turner’s ability was being quesVirginia senior attackman Matt Ward leads the potent tioned; now, offensive attack against UMass in the NCAA Title he’s a hero in Game. Ward had five goals on his way to MVP honors. Charlottesville. photo from www.uva.edu

photo by Ryan Leeb

Andy Wancowicz Sports co Editor

Name: Tim Lozinak Grade: Freshman Sport: Tennis

Boys varsity lacrosse falls in MIAA “B” Conference semis Chris Wilson Staff Writer

photo byJen DiBiaggio

After last year’s loss in the MIAA “B” Conference lacrosse championship, JC hoped to take a young team back to a game it has very much been accustomed to.

The boys lacrosse team, led by captains Matt Rayburn, Billy Boniface, Phil Pons, and Julian Maliszeski, unfortunately fell short of this “all-important” game with a tough loss to an undefeated Pallotti in the semiÞnal.

These four starters, along with the outstanding new star goalie, junior JC senior Matt Rayburn attacks the net against Andrew Pipitone, brought much sucAnnapolis Area Christian School in the quarcess to the lacrosse team this year. terfinal playoff game, which JC won 9-5.

“Pipitone stepped up tremendously,

Volume 41, Number 7

The

and proved he has outstanding potential,” said junior Patrick Little.

This was Andrew Pipitone’s Þrst year ever playing lacrosse and he stepped up big as the varsity starter this season.

Little mentioned that three players stood out as crucial players for JC, but received little recognition this year. Seniors Marc Scanlon, Matt Hinder, and T.J. Reynolds stepped up and helped the Patriots Þnish this season strong.

“If we would have won the semiÞnal, I guarantee we would have won the championship,” said Little after the disappointing second half breakdown.

The game against Pallotti started out great as JC played well and “took it to” Pallotti. But in the end Pallotti remained tough and remained undefeated.

Patriot

The outlook for the future of JC lacrosse looks bright, thanks to the number of players who are returning with varsity experience, along with a strong underclass.

“There is no doubt we are winning the whole thing next year,” exclaimed Little with extreme conÞdence. “We all have relentless tenacity and the experience to win this thing.”

It is up to a large group of the returning squad to step up and surpass the Þnishes of the last two seasons’ teams and take home the MIAA “B” Conference championship. And according to the members of the team, they feel like this is an obtainable goal for next year’s team despite the numerous players lost to graduation.

JUne 2006