Feb 28 Issue by tjTODAY Online

tjTODAY

THOMAS JEFFERSON HIGH SCHOOL FOR SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY 6560 Braddock Rd., Alexandria, VA 22312

FEBRUARY 28, 2013

Finding romance P 8-9

VOLUME 28, ISSUE 6

Book challenges cover broad range of objections by Tahmina Achekzai News Editor Browsing through the religion section in the library, junior Anwar Omeish was disapIslam, her faith. Finally, she checked out “Legacy of Jihad.” But only a few chapters into the book, she found multiple inaccuracies. After extensive research on both the author and book and a discussion with librarian Margaret Carpenter, Omeish decided to challenge the book. In order for the challenge to go through, however, Omeish would have to

“The author of ‘Legacy of Jihad’ has absolutely no credentials to write on the subject,” she said. “He associates himself with known ‘Islamophobes’ and hate-mongers and is named as one of the top 25 pseudo-experts on Earlier this month, parent Laura Murphy’s ning novel by Toni Morrison, made it to the FCPS School Board. She sought to ban the book from classrooms because her child had experienced distress reading the book.

English teacher Judy Bello taught “Beloved” in her English 11 classes until two years ago. While teaching, she recognized that the violence and sexual material covered in the novel needed to be approached carefully. “I would not have dared teach it at the beginning of the year,” Bello said. “I waited until we had a close sense of community and tolerance in the class.” “Beloved” tells the story of an Africanthree children to save them from a life of slavery. Her daughter, called “Beloved,” does die.

Guns in the crosshairs

Bello explained that she never asked students directly to speak up about the sensitive topics. For Class of 2011 graduate Omar Abed, “Beloved” was the only book in high school he didn’t fully read. “It was weird discussing it in class at times. The topics in the book were a big jump from Bello decided to stop teaching it after one student opted out of reading the book. “Perhaps it was a bit of a challenge even for our sophisticated, earnest students,” she said. continued on p. 2

Cool science projects go to Regionals

another, the boy mesmerized by the process.

Earlier proposals to limit the access to military-style assault weapons and high-capacity ammunition magazines were all rejected in

check has been conducted. No permits or licensing is required, except for purchases of concealed-carry weapons. continued on p. 12

by Tahmina Achekzai and Jenny Chen News Editors Equipped with a microscope and ProScope, junior Sarah Quettawala peered at a zebrafish embryo and carefully counted its heartbeats through its transparent outer layer. Quettawala was studying the effects of cortisol, a stress hormone, on the genome by testing zebrafish embryos and determining how their heart rates responded. “Dealing with such small specimens, concentrations and amounts of chemicals made it difficult to be accurate and precise the majority of the time,” she said. “It was challenging to minimize human error, but my data was consistent.” Though it was her first year participating in the Jefferson science fair, Quettawala achieved a first place finish, one of only 40 students to do so. Many of the winners, including Quettawala, are now preparing for the regional fair, which will take place from March 15 to 17 at Robinson Secondary School. Like Quettawala, this was the first year seniors Arusha Reghu and Yihemba Yikona competed in the science fair. Reghu and Yikona, who used their senior research project, introduced a new specimen into the Oceanography lab with their project: blue mussels. “There was a lot we had to learn about what environment would be best for the mussels. Luckily, mussels do pretty well in the lab, so they handle slight changes in salinity and temperature without much stress,” Reghu said. The seniors tested the effect of iron and manganese on the mussels’ production of byssal threads, a type of fiber that help them attach to various materials, including plastic, glass and metals. “I’m really interested in the bioengineering field and how there are so many applications from the natural world that can enhance our lives,” Reghu said. “The fact that byssal threads can attach themselves to practically any surface underwater and in moist environments could make closing wounds during surgery easier and less invasive.”

P10

P12

P13

graphic by Tahmina Achekzai

by Mallika Patkar Editor-in-Chief

walked into the sporting goods section of the Wal-Mart in Warrenton a week ago, intent on comparing gun purchase

procedures to those I’d seen at the Chantilly Expo gun show I’d visited on Feb. 8. -

check is conducted in the store. If you don’t have a criminal record, you’re good to go. Such a transaction is even quicker at gun shows, where no background checks are required. At the Nation’s Gun Show in Chantilly, I saw someone hand over a voter registration card and driver’s license to a vendor, and leave with a newly purchased handgun. concerned. However, as the 2013 regular session of the Virginia General Assembly came to a close on Feb. 23, many of the proposed gun

sales. I noted a father instructing his young

Winter sports come to a mixed conclusion

Performers display culture at I-Nite

the Va. Senate. A bill providing private sellers at gun shows the option to conduct background checks also failed to pass earlier this month. “Republicans and Democrats are not willing to vote on the issue,” Del. Bob Marshall, of Virginia’s 13th district in Manassas Park, said. Compared to states such as New York, which recently banned assault weapons and placed restrictions on weapon sales to the mentally ill, Virginia has remained unchanged. Current laws allow persons over the

Robot challenge brings labs together

Student adjusts to her gluten-free life

news

february 28, 2013

Kudos & Accomplishments Seniors Shomiron Ghose and David Shin, juniors Abi Gopal and Billy Moses and sophomores Shantanu Gore and

Possible new Boy Scout Evans shares policy may be divisive thoughts on by Tahmina Achekzai News Editor

county focus

pact on the Boy traditional code -

served

them

Scouts provide

“

The removal of the ban could have a decidedly negative impact. - senior Peter Foley

their

”

values, -

Another issue that has caused much concern is pedophilia and the

“Families choose to join troops that are

Other scouts are not as passionate about

photo by Shayna Hume

Mason District representative to the FCPS School Board Sandy Evans discusses her positions with the tjTODAY editorial board on Feb. 1.

compiled by Jenny Chen News Editor Q: What progress has the School Board made in the superintendent search? -

conversation about the superintendent search

White House hosts STEM panel event by Jenny Chen News Editor

Q: Would it be a good idea to have other counties contribute to TJ’s renovation? -

Student will challenge bogus book on her faith

Q: If base schools changed their start

continued from p. 1 -

“Universally

accepted

literature

Q: What is the school board’s opinion on the disciplinary process?

cancer or build an app that’s literally sav-

Q: What are the arguments against bringing parents into the disciplinary process sooner? A: Some principals have said that the par-

Q: How does the school board view ary process?

tjTODAY Online To see more news, visit our website at tjhsst.edu/studentlife/ publications/tjTODAY

news

february 28, 2013

NEWSMAKERS Students lobby for benefits Quiz Bowl defends state title

photo courtesy of Saloni Chaswal

photo by Jennifer Seavey

The News Freshman James Park and senior Saloni

The News Junior Nadege Aoki, seniors Sarah Eltinge and captain Raynor Kuang and junior Sid Verma win the VHSL Scholastic Bowl State Championship at the College of William and Mary on Feb. 23.

to talk to Virginia legislators on Feb. 19. Backstory Asst. Principal Heather Sondel accompanied the group, which included student

Ashe elected to school board

photo by Yena Seo

The News Junior Will Ashe addresses the audience FCPS School Board at Woodson High School on Feb. 19.

Backstory

The week before the trip, participants met with Sondel to prepare for the discussions. as well. The purpose of the trip was to communicate the the importance of science funding and research labs. In Richmond, the students split up into smaller groups. Within each group, the students met with the delegates and senators of each group member. They met with each

able to meet with all of them. In those cases, the students

promise they showed when they joined the club as freshmen,” Gecan said. For Eltinge and Kuang, the triumph was another experiences. most of my strongest memories are from when they were still around: hanging out with them during after school Kuang said.

School and Arjan Peters of McLean High School. “Each of the candidates had leadership experience that made them stand out,” Ashe said. “Some were fellow such as FBLA, and many of their accomplishments were somewhat intimidating.” In his platform, Ashe focused on mental health, online textbooks, technology in the classroom, and increased communication for students in the county. He also start times for high schools.

tournament, which took place in Atlanta. There, he need more funding for science research labs,” Chaswal said. After talking to the legislators, the students watched

wanted to propose to the school board next year,” Fairfax High School senior John Kim said. “I think he will represent tossups, during practices and competitions. “Also, some of the times on bonuses, we all work together to come up with the answer at the last minute. That always feels really great.”

capital after lunch.

- Tahmina Achekzai

SAT Prep Exclusively for High-Achievers

tournaments, a home tournament and area competitions. - Jenny Chen

- Yena Seo

opinion

february 28, 2013

tjTODAY Volume 28 Issue 6

Teachers need to enforce TJ Honor Code Lead Editorial

which the teacher simdents are sometimes also allowed to go to the bathroom during assessments. When the ing the students, a student can easily use

tj TODAYâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s unsigned majority opinion

2012 Pacemaker - NSPA 2012 Trophy Class - VHSL 2012 All-American - NSPA 2012 Gold Medalist - CSPA

This month, students were required to take an academic integrity completion rity Blackboard site. The quiz was meant demic integrity.

Editorial Board

all times during exams. This should be a school-wide policy. Regulations need to be set in relation

Editor in Chief and that the accompanying PowerPoint

Mallika Patkar

Managing/Online Editor

used phones during assessments, but nothing changed in that class either.

away with it because the teacher is seem-

year, physics students were caught stor-

a minute. they be used during the smaller quizzes

Thrisha Potluri

the uncertainties and gray areas sur-

News Editors

erance policy when it comes to cheat-

Tahmina Achekzai Jenny Chen

notes stashed in desks to smartphones. -

Opinion Editors Michael Chao Arya Dahal

biology classes, students are able to use -

reported cheating incidents to go up.

Sports Editors

needs to make sure students adhere to it. Many teachers allow students to use pre-

which they are born.

Spread Editor

tiple cheating incidents in which nothing

there is a policy in place, the teacher is re-

our editors reported the same students ther teacher took any action.

noticed this problem in biology and geo-

rity, teachers cannot turn a blind eye.

Sandy Cho Yena Seo

consistently, and the emphasis should

Sunny Kim more communication is necessary because there are no crossdiscipline curricular

Entertainment Editors Jennifer Walter Lindsay Williams

Tara Gupta

not talk to teachers about their workload,

Features Editors Amy Ahn Shayna Hume Alexis Williams

For many, the decision to cheat is not premeditated.

Staff Reporters

dents to cheat, what should be done? Teachers need to step in and play a more

Tara Gupta Ellen Kan Anjali Khanna

Adviser Jennifer Seavey, MJE

Printer

First,

Silver Communications

teachers

exam with the same

TjTODAY High School for Science and Technology published monthly as a vehicle for student expression and is an open forum of issues of interest and concern to the school A full-year subscription can be purchased through the Thomas

noticed that students tend to cheat more zes because teachers generally pay less attention. sessments during

by sending a check or money order for $20 to tjTODAY

The

mo-

realized our education system was in trouble

science standards are declining, and that

tjTODAY, but not necessarily the

six years ago in math class. The teacher a problem on the board, and when

test scores. Politicians use these words liberally. But what do they mean? What entists, doctors and engineers?

to a code of journalistic ethics that demands the exercise of accuracy, The

content

tjTODAY

based on standardized tests and exams.

HARIANK MUTHAKANA

TjTODAY solicits advertising but reserves the right to reject any material deemed libelous, disruptive, obscene or otherwise inappropriate 6560 Braddock Road Alexandria, VA 22312 Phone: (703)-750-8375 Fax: (703)-750-5010

to its highest potential when creating tests and exams. This can also be applied -

always consistent across teachers. Furthermore, a well-constructed test, with proper instruction to students should

strict methods. -

rization were all that was required. The question that must be asked is

ers will aim at creating real situations so students will learn how to think.

educators should be? Forcing students rization methods?

derstand or to deal with new or trying -

throughout my elementary and middle material not tested was simply ignored.

Hariank Muthakana is a sophomore.

opinion

february 28, 2013

How do you deal with gun violence?

Parents expose their children to the wrong media

MICHAEL CHAO

W h i l e the country struggles to recuperate from recent mass shootings, many politicians and lobbying groups have been racing to place the blame on dif-

ferent scapegoats. the video game and movie industry. percent of children under the age of 17 are playing video games rated for mature and adult-only audiences, oftentimes with the consent of their parents. How often do parents utilize parent controls on

for their trademark bloodiness. However, the rating system has now become a

The amount of bloodiness and violence on TV is simply too high to ignore and let naïve children foolishly watch. I recognize keeping children from watching the most popular shows on TV

After every shooting, the buzz is always the same. “Should we arm school

highest-rated shows on both broadcast and cable channels show unmitigated However, I believe that LaPierre and the NRA got one thing wrong. The entertainment industry is not the only culprit. It is simply not their fault that their products are being exposed to the wrong audiences. exposure to violence in video games, TV and movies because of the lack of control that parents exert. parental lock on violent TV shows or to refuse a child’s plea for that latest new video game. This is the easiest possible way to avoid desensitization. We can no longer just blame the gun dealers, the mentally ill and the divided legislators. habits, we will be eliminating one potential trigger for violent behavior.

school student playing these games as it is a college student. As an avid fan of these series, it saddens me that heinous acts of violence are being blamed on what I turn to during my spare time. Unfortunately, we have to be realistic here. A nine-year-old boy playing as a super-soldier blasting away at hordes of bad guys will most likely be unable to distinguish between fantasy and reality. Once they become engrossed with violent video games, the unreal will become the real. The same holds for movies. Remember ing this movie in a theater right next to a family of four with two kids, who both looked no older than 11. The parents didn’t even bother to cover their kids’ eyes when the screen showed an explicit scene of a man being eaten alive by three dogs. But what were they doing there in the

ANJALI KHANNA

“What about banning the sale of semiautomatic Yes, it’s prog-

Hidden under piles of political argument, surviving victims and families of the deceased mourn for the loss of a loved one. rial services and invitations to a State of the Union address. When asked whether having stricter gun control laws or armed guards in schools would be more progressive to solving the gun control issue, 43 percent of Washington Post readers pushed for stricter gun control laws as opposed to the 41 percent who chose armed guards in schools. Our nation is strongly opinionated. However, I could

Tara Gupta

government-funded therapy for shooting victims. A story by Kelly Kearsley on NBC Vitals Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) on surviving victims of the Chardon High School shooting that left three students dead in February of 2012. Even though a small number were injured or killed in this Ohio school compared to the more major shootings like the Virginia Tech massacre of 2007, the effects on the students remained the same. PTSD can last for months after the terrifying event, and involve fear and anxiety, along with nightmares with guilt and grief. Students having experienced the shooting will be at higher risk, and will need extra support, according to Melissa Brymer of the National Center for Child Traumatic Stress in an interview with Kearsley. the news, which mainly covers bills passed by Congress or a proposed gun control plan from President Obama. I believe that we owe can only imagine how they feel. What for us is just a scary story is a continuing reality for other victimized teens out there. When my father, an alumnus of Virginia Tech, told me about the shooting back in 2007, I was in elementary school. Even at that point, I knew that much damage had been done to the young minds of the Tech students who survived. I knew that after something so traumatic, no one could ever fully recover. And according to Tech massacre survivor Colin Goddard in an interview with Amy Goodman of Democracy Now News, I was right. “I was just conjugating French verbs, and now someone’s shooting me. It really came full circle… I remember looking at the SWAT team member’s eyes, and they were… Honestly, I don’t blame him for being afraid. How could anyone be OK after experiencing someone murder all of their friends After the Aurora movie theater shooting, survivors commented on their feelings saying they did not feel safe in public anymore. According to the movie goers, a soldier at war expects to be shot at, but not a teen seeing a movie with friends. Nobody should have to be afraid to go the movies, to school or to church because of gun violence. Can we really say that people come

Violence isn’t only found in theaters. Many popular TV shows are also rife A recent study done by the Holly-

need to be taking action to aid the survivors, as well as focus on a goal of prevention of acts like the Newtown Massacre and any other shooting. We need to make our nation safe again.

shows and found a total of 132 dead bodshowed an average of 25 bodies per episode alone.

Jordan Goodson My Voice TJ Drama is my outlet for expression ‘I love my fellow actors, the techies, the stage - they’re my family’ Jefferson is not known for its theatre, which is why when I tell people I’m a drama kid, their typical reacrelative obscurity, TJ Drama is alive just a closely knit community of kids who love to perform more than almost anything. TJ Drama is a family, and I’m glad to say I’m a part of it. When I deliberated over whether to attend TJ, drama was a big concern of mine. I loved math and science in middle school, but I lived and breathed drama. In the end, drama was actually the deciding factor. My sister, who does drama at my base school, told me her theatre department was incredibly catty, everyone competitive and out for themselves. I’d heard from drama kids at TJ that it was more of a family there, and that’s what I wanted. Since I’ve been here, I’ve been in-

volved in every single drama production. Drama has been a lifeline, a source of frustration and tears, an escape, and my single greatest source of happiness. TJ Drama has had a tumultuous year so far. We lost our director, and the job fell to Mrs. Khatcheressian, who was already in charge of the chorus department. Mrs. K has done an incredible job with a difficult task, getting us two excellent directors at such short notice. But, that doesn’t mean the transition has been easy. I’m not going to sugarcoat it—some of the changes have been incredibly frustrating. I did, however, get to direct, with my fellow drama kid Liesl Jaeger, a one-act I wrote. After we lost the chance to have our works performed at the annual Knight of One Acts, Mrs. K giving us chance put up our shows. It was incredibly rewarding to see my play performed on stage. The play is based off of my own family, all of

whom were in the audience, laughing at themselves and each other. I don’t want to make it sound like this year has been entirely negative. Our new directors have shown me different ways to approach performing that I never would have encountered on my own. Personally, I’ve always hated change, so I began this year with an apprehensive attitude, and I still haven’t quite lost it. Currently, I’m a jumbled mix of excitement, fear, nostalgia and exhaustion. I love TJ Drama. I love my fellow actors, the techies, the stage; they’re my family. Things will

go back to normal, or we’ll create our own normal. Whatever way it goes, as we say in TJ Drama, “We just have to keep the faith and take care of each

photo by Arya Dahal

sports

february 28, 2013

photo by Sandy Cho

by Kayleigh Vance not the excitement of a new prospect, a great

Committed to play

photos by Sandy Cho and Ellen Kan

have the experience, the pitching, and the

Seniors factor athletics into college decisions

by Ellen Kan

As second semester begins, many seniors dents have achieved their academic dreams,

Senior Ryan Madani, who rows, decided -

provide me with the perfect combination of -

to Princeton University’s crew team, at-

brecht’s drew interest from varsity coaches

senior Chris Vrabased nis

his Association

“

Playing a varsity sport in college helps students manage their time better as well as create a strong base of friends. -senior Zach Ho

”

On the other row for the UnitAcademy, was not

“Recordings of races were important, tion regarding my experience,” senior Sarah -

menchie’s pinecrest plaza

6550 little river turnpike alexandria, va 22312 valid only on frozen yogurt purchase. cannot be combined with any other offer. valid thru 3/31/13. TJFEB

sports

february 28, 2013

Winter sports athletes learn from season’s lessons

photo courtesy of Jane Burhoe Anderson

Junior Grace Zeng runs the 1600-meter event at the Northern Region Championships on Feb. 16.

photo by Sandy Cho

Senior Patrick O’Connor wrestles in a home match against Falls Church High School on Dec. 5.

photo by Sandy Cho

Senior Marcus Prater dribbles down the court at the game against McLean High School on Jan. 8.

photo courtesy of Will Ashe

Senior Bohe Hosking swims breaststroke at the Northern Region Championships on Feb. 2.

reporting by Sandy Cho

Athletes of the Season

Andrew Seliskar photo by Sandy Cho

by Yena Seo Sports Editor

photo by Yena Seo

by Yena Seo Sports Editor

by Yena Seo Sports Editor -

spread

february 28, 2013

Heart

spread

february 28, 2013

Relationship

He said He said

She said

Courtship Romance Finding Romance

Q: What do you see as romantic? A:

Q: What do you think Ben will say when he is asked about his most romantic moment in your relationship? A:

Q: What is your ideal place to go for romance? A:

Q: What do you see as romantic? A:

Q: What do you think Liesl will say when she is asked about her most romantic moment in your relationship? A:

Juniors Liesl Jaeger and Ben André

Q: What do you see as romantic? A:

Q: What do you think Alexis will say when she is asked about her most romantic moment in your relationship? A:

Q: What is your ideal place to go for romance? A:

Q: Where do you usually go on dates? A:

Q: Does Liesl like you more in a

Q: Does Ben like you more in a particular

Q: What do you think Daniel will say when he is asked about his most romantic moment in your relationship? A:

Sophomores Daniel McKinney and Alexis Gillmore

Q: Where do you usually go on dates? A:

Q: What is your ideal place to go for romance? A:

Q: Was there any time during your relationship when you felt uncomfortable? A:

Q: Was there any time during your relationship when you felt uncomfortable? Why? A:

Q: What is your ideal place to go for romance? A:

Q: Does Alexis like you more in a particular A:

Q: Does Daniel like you more in a particular

Q: How does Ben compare to your ex’s? A:

Q: How does A:

Liesl compare to your ex’s?

Q: Was there any time during your relationship when you felt uncomfortable? A:

Amour Love Q: What did Ben do for Valentine’s Day? Did that satisfy you? A:

mans

She said

Q: What do you see as romantic? A: Q: What do you think Andrew will say when he is asked about his most romantic moment in your relationship? A: Q: What is your ideal place to go for romance? A: Q: Was there any time during your relationship when you felt uncomfortable? A: Q: How does Andrew compare to your ex’s? A:

Q: What did Andrew do for Valentine’s Day? Did that satisfy you? A:

Q: What do you see as romantic? A:

Seniors Andrew Eu and Anna Hwang

photos, graphics and reporting by Sunny Kim

she is asked about her most romantic moment in your relationship? A:

Q: How does Anna compare to your ex’s? A:

Q: What did Anna do for Valentine’s Day? Did that satisfy you? A:

She said

Q: What do you see as romantic? A:

Q: What do you think Douglas will say when he is asked about his most romantic moment in your relationship? A:

Feelings He said Q: What do you see as romantic? A:

Freshmen Caroline Esmaili and Douglas André

Q: What do you think Caroline will say when she is asked about her most romantic moment in your relationship? A:

Passion

Spark Q: What do you see as romantic? A:

Q: What is your ideal place to go for romance? A: Q: Was there any time during your relationship when you felt uncomfortable? A:

He said

Q: Where do you usually go on dates? A:

He said

Q: What do you think Anna will say when she is asked about her most romantic moment in your relationship? A:

Q: What did Liesl do for Valentine’s Day? Did that satisfy you? A:

Seniors Hannah Rudin and Howard Small

Q: What is your ideal place to go for romance? A:

Q: Does Douglas like you more

during dates? A:

Q: What do you think Hannah will say when

Q: What do you see as romantic? A:

She said

go on dates? A:

Q: What is your ideal place to go for romance? A:

Q: What do you think Howard will say when he is asked about his most romantic moment in your relationship? A:

Q: Where do you usually

Q: Was there any time during your relationship when you felt uncomfortable? A:

Q: What is your ideal place to go for romance? A:

Q: Does Caroline like you more A:

Q: Was there any time during your relationship when you felt uncomfortable? A:

Q: How does Caroline compare to your ex’s? A:

Q: How does Douglas compare to your ex’s? A:

Q: What did Douglas do for Valentine’s Day? Did that satisfy you? A:

Q: What did Caroline do for Valentine’s Day? Did that satisfy you? A:

entertainment

Frankenstein’s monster gets new historical take

february 28, 2013

I-Nite by Lindsay Williams Entertainment Editor As the Masters of Culture (MCs) intro-

students into their Friday act. “It was a great opportunity for me to get anyone myself,” senior Jenny Peng said.

citing, mysterious atmosphere. The Namaste Boys did not disappoint, with a spectacular photo courtesy of amazon.com

by Julia Casazza Special to tjTODAY In “The Lady and Her Monsters,” Roseanne Montillo forays into 19th century Europe, telling of the many forces,

came and put together an act that closely

Korea actually is. The whole nation doesn’t always listen to pop music,” sophomore

takes a lot of hard work and talent, and it’s -

rise to Mary Shelley’s “Frankenstein.” “There was a lot of intense practicing and

Clockwise from top: senior Hyae In Seo dances in a classical display of Korean culture; junior Christine Tsou dances with Japanese Honor Society; junior Monica Grover and Ravali Goda perform as part of Namaste underclassmen girls; seniors Schyler Pa and Justin Hwang dance the salsa with Hispanic Alliance.

the night. “I really liked how their dancing, costuming, music and props worked all together. Their dancing was in sync, and it was amazing how all of the girls opened and closed their fans simultaneously. It was colorful and maste is considering hosting the show at the

Montillo commences with an account which he skewered dead frogs using met-

cal Korean culture, after complaints that their

changes as well. German Honor Society stepped away from their traditional slap man techno-pop scene.

president of German Honor Society, said.

ees.

see this amazing show,” sophomore Mona Bugaighis said.

to reanimate a corpse. to Shelley’s life. Just as her protagonist norms, so did Shelley (née Godwin). Much to her father and stepmother’s dismay, Godwin pursued a romantic relationship with the married poet Percy Bysshe Shelley . It was during one of her trips, to the German town of Burg Frankenstein, where Godwin most likely heard of the Due to his carelessness and ignothe transmutation of lead. Such a narto presage that of “Frankenstein,” and makes the origin of Victor’s surname during a stay at Lord Byron’s Villa Diodati, located on the shores of Lake Ge-

photos by Sandy Cho, Lindsay Williams and Thrisha Potluri

‘Metamorphoses’ mesmerizes audience by Arya Dahal Opinion editor

his wish.

a lonely chair stands in one corner of a large

ther, Cinyras (Chris Kipiniak), and tricks him into sleeping with her. After the deception is

Arena Stage’s latest production “Metamorphoses.” twined stories more interesting to a student of ancient Greek mythology and Roman epic -

morous and emotional scenes. The light and other dimension to the play. Viewer discretion lurking towards the end. phoses” a spectacular work of art.

Percy and John Polidori, Byron’s personal doctor. Polidori, a recent graduate

the course of the performance.

and can do so if he doesn’t look

Zimmerman, “Metamorphoses,” which opened on Broadway for a year-long run in

A modern and humorous take on Phaeton’s (Doug Hara) chariot ride follows. Phaeton

and Her Monsters.” Her Monsters” lie in Montillo’s going as her description of “resurrection-

poem consisting of classical mythological tales

ing with his father, the sun god.

of seemingly unconnected myths selected ride and the destruction of the Earth that follows. The play comes a full circle -

all of the tales. world and leads into the life of Midas (Rayhis wish of a golden touch, his daughter unfortunately hugs him and is turned into gold.

take away his golden touch and restore his daughter to life.

nings or frightening tales in general.

Coming Attractions infographic by Lindsay Williams

‘Jack the Giant Slayer’

March 1: Theaters everywhere

‘#willpower’

March 1: iTunes

photo courtesy of arenastage.org

Ashleigh Lathrop and Chris Kipiniak perform in “Metamorphoses.”

‘Awake’

March 1: NBC

March 4: Bookstores

‘Oz: The Great and Powerful’ March 8: Theaters everywhere

entertainment

february 28, 2013

The OSCAR goes to...

Students pick their favorites from the Academy Award Nominees Best Picture Skyfall 46% Life of Pi 27% Lincoln 14%

Les Misérables 31% Argo 16% Life of Pi 12%

OSCAR winner: Life of Pi

OSCAR winner: Argo

Actor in a

Animated Jennifer Lawrence 55% Jessica Chastain 34% Quvenzhané Wallis 17%

photo courtesy of silverliningsplay-

Hugh Jackman 41% Daniel Day-Lewis 36% Bradley Cooper 11%

OSCAR winner: Jennifer Lawrence

Anne Hathaway 78% Sally Field 11% Amy Adams 4%

OSCAR winner: Daniel Day-Lewis

OSCAR winner: Anne Hathaway

Brave 49% Wreck-It Ralph 35% Paranorman 7%

OSCAR winner: Brave

Actor in a

Tommy Lee Jones 46% Alan Arkin 23% Christoph Waltz 19%

OSCAR winner: Christoph Waltz

Chris Terreo (Argo) 26% Tony Kushne (Lincoln) 25% David Magee (Life of Pi) 23%

OSCAR winner: Chris Terreo (Argo)

photo courtesy of zerodarkthirtyMark Beol 39% Quentin Tarantino 23% Wes Anderson and Roman Coppola 29%

OSCAR winner: Quentin Tarantino (Django Unchained)

TJ Awards Results based on an Intranet poll of 146 students graphic by Jennifer Walter

features

february 28, 2013

Gun legislation faces formidable odds continued from p. 1 Opinion on gun control varies here at

more restrictions to keep guns in

senior Pierce Eggan was given the checks are at the regulations on sophomore Paris

also have a role in

graphic by Mallika Patkar

help is to not open

photos by Mallika Patkar

From top: A man looks at ammunition in a Wal-Mart in Warrenton; Wal-Mart houses a gun aisle and counter in the sporting out of the display case for a customer; and a woman looks at guns in the aisle.

Seniors work across tech labs for research projects by Alexis Williams Features Editor

photo by Alexis Williams

Seniors Vaughn Varma and Bobby Fontana and junior Alex WoodThomas work on their robot for FIRST Robotics competition.

13 How I learned to like a gluten-free diet health

february 28, 2013

by Caroline Heilburn Special to tjTODAY

gluten – not just in the form of food. It could be in a toothpaste, medication, lip gloss or even on the glue of an enve-

to provide food for me that would not make me sick. I real-

wo years ago, eating was a chore. Looking

for a snack in the pantry brought me to tears. Foods I had eaten with gusto throughout my childhood now taunted and teased me from their shelves. Miserably, I would reach past the packages of cookies, snacks, housed on a separate shelf from the other food items. The unappealing packaging - gray, heavily insulated pouches labeled “GF” – indicated the “safety” of these foods. I recall opening a bag, releasing a putrid odor simi-

That visit changed my entire perspective about my dis-

Therefore, the villi are unable to do their crucial job – absorb nutrients from food. from cramps, fatigue, bruising, depression, hair loss, delayed growth, defects in tooth enamel to itchy skin and is a blood test which can detect several special antibodies, called antitissue transglutaminase antibodies (tTGA). I had been told that my test revealed elevated tTGA levels, and a biopsy of a small piece of tissue from my small intestine conthose from a healthy small intestine. Mine were completely hairbrush, standing alert and lined up in rows and columns. Acceptance was slowly creeping into my brain, and I then continued my quest for information about celiac. This

could eat rather than what I couldn’t. Now when I open the pantry door, I am excited by my options. I have combed area supermarkets and found foods I cannot tell apart from the non-gluten-free food I used to eat. I have helped my grandpa to alter his recipes so he noodles without gluten. I can now devour his scrumptious meals like I did when I was younger. I am campaigning for restaurants to adopt gluten-free menus, which are safe for celiacs to eat. I have joined celiac support groups so I can gain tips from experts about living this challenging life and also comfort the newly diagnosed who are feeling as vexed and hopeless as I did when I was in their position. Of course, our family regularly donates only GF items to any food drive, and I can proudly say I am now

brown, slimy liquid in my mouth, I gagged, dropping the At that moment, I seriously questioned why anyone thought my being diagnosed with celiac disease was “good news.” The path to diagnosis started with my increasing leththrough the day. Swim practices and classes, which I previously looked forward to, became chores. My goal each day ued to decline, and I was becoming dangerously malnourished. I was dragged to the pediatrician and then to specialme!” I had snapped numerous times. My cantankerous attitude was an indicator of extreme fatigue, the doctor later told me. agnosis was determined. The doctors told me with relieved faces, “You’re lucky. It’s only celiac disease.” I had no idea what the condition was. I had never heard of it, and no one in my family or any of my friends had ever been diagnosed with it. The doctor explained, as if it were as easy as simple arithmetic, that all I had to do to ameliorate my symptoms was to avoid gluten in my diet...for the rest of my life. My parents were ecstatic- they were so glad that it wasn’t anything “serious.” Finally home, I sat anxiously in front of the computer Google search engine box. With much apprehension, my I had never heard of it so I remained hopeful that it was not an ingredient in many of my favorite foods. But what I found was horrifying news to me. My eyes raked across the words, not really comprehending: Gluten is a protein found in wheat and other grains. Gluten is present in cookseemed endless. My mind reeled as images of the staple foods of my life played out like a slideshow. Before I was monumental role food had played in my life. dered why I would be more susceptible than the next person. The results of studies vary, but approximately 2 million Americans have this genetic, autoimmune disorder with nosis. The exact cause of celiac disease is unknown, and, curiously, it can develop at any age if the genetic makeup for it is present. People with active celiac cannot tolerate any intake of

cured. Instead, I can manage it by living gluten-free, avoiding anything with wheat, barley, rye and some oats. The challenge seemed overwhelming. My family treated me to my favorite meal, a last supper of sorts, at my favorite pasta restaurant. And then they all jumped into support mode, and the dietary change began. Gone were those days where I could mindlessly inhale delicious food. Now, every bite had to be thoroughly researched, inspected, and double-checked before it travelled to my mouth - and most of the time, I found the gluten-free food unpalatable. The pasta was mushy, the crackers tasteless, and the breads so crumbly they would survive the transfer to a Ziploc bag in my lunchbox. There were a lot of expensive gluten-free purchases that ended up in the trash after one bite. Motivated mostly by fear of not

s e i k o o C p i Ch e t a l o c o h C e e r F n e t Glu y w e h C & s u o i c i l e D

diet of fresh fruits, vegetables, plain up meats, baked potatoes without top/2 c 1 pings and white rice. We purchased all gs new pots, pans, plates, glasses and uten2 eg sils for my use, and designated kitchen space “GF” as well. As the rest of my family continued to eat normally, crosscontamination was a big concern. Travel swim meets, after school clubs with snacks, and dinner celebrations with friends were no longer easy and relaxing. I would feign I wasn’t hungry so others wouldn’t know I couldn’t eat “regular” foods. At this time, one of the lowest points in my life, an unexpected opportunity arose. While doing some community service at a food bank, I dropped my uneaten GF packet into one of the boxes I’d prepared. The next time I was volunteering, a delighted man and woman approached me. They had a young daughter who was intolerant of gluten, and it was my GF packet that had made its way to their

r suga

otluri isha P y Thr kes.com b s ic la raph ndo and g e from la photo recip

substitute, they were grateful for my donation.

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features

february 28, 2013

Defining Moments

on pivotal experiences in their lives and the nation

“As a senior applying to college, people keep saying I ting in because I’m black. It gets really irritating when

me, ‘Class is going to start in

again to the point where you almost start to think you are not as worthy to get in — as vantage over people.”

It wasn’t like they were -

parents thought there weren’t any black -

graphics, photos and reporting by Shayna Hume

february 28, 2013

culture

february 28, 2013

WHAT’S YOUR TYPE? The Myers-Briggs Type Indicator tool continues to provide insight into mastering personal understanding and group dynamics

“

INTJs are supposed to be independent, reserved, skeptical, driven and creative. Basically, the typical those adjectives, the ‘skeptical’ one in particular.

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What Doing one ISTJ: D e B Should Pho

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KEY: Energy Orientation

Do you get your energy from outer or inner sources?

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I always do what my heart wants before thinking about it. This sounds extremely cheesy, but I guess that’s why I’m more Feeling instead of the Thinking.

fre

senior Sean Watert

- Minh Bui

trovert, but I was surprised by the S part because that stands for Sensing, and I thought I would be more Intuitive. Basically I was surprised by half of my results. - Sonia Gupta

”

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- John Pentakalos

ENFP: Giving Life an Extra Squeeze

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- Jenna Pollock

as g H nt e thin very provem J: E INT for Im uranen P m Roo ior Emma

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ESFP: You Only Go Around On ce in Life

- Angela Goyal

- Emma Puranen

The portrait of my personality hit on a lot of things that I strive for on a day-today basis. For example, the MyersBriggs says that an ISTP ‘does not respect the rules of the system.’ That is so true.

I found the Myers-Briggs to be cool because the description described who I was according to how I saw myself and my needs and what other people thought of me.

“

”

I’m very extroverted, and after looking at my results and what characteristics are under Thinking and Perceiving, I’m not surprised that it’s my personality type. - Rini Sarkhel

Gather Information

Do you prefer tangible data or abstract concepts?

Decision-Making

Do you make decisions in an analytical manner or based off feelings?

”

Action Orientation

Do you prefer to have an organized plan or take things as they come?

Extrovert

Sensing

Thinking

Judging

Introvert

Intuitive

Feeling

Perceiving

by Amy Ahn Features Editor Every year while sophomores and juniors are busy taking the PSAT and seniors are home