Professional Documents
Culture Documents
Inside: News: 1-4 Politics: 5-6, Features: 7-9, Humor: 10-11, Spotlight: 12-13 Opinions: 14-16, Wondering Warrior: 17, Entertainment: 18-20, Sports: 21-24
Warrior
Sherwood High School 300 Olney-Sandy Spring Road, Sandy Spring, MD 20860
Happy Halloween!
The Warrior asks: What do Sherwood students like most about the spookiest holiday? pg. 17
Homecoming Court
Sydney Morrison 13
Back Row (from left): Cesar Martinez, Anthony Justus, Brandon Loiacono, Mike Zerafa, Steven Palmer, Colin Hambright, Gai Kaufman, Eshan Nanda, Kevin Pham. Front Row (from left): Ariel Mahlmann, Omo Ikheloa, Dahlia Ghafir, Christy Mempin, Maddie Doan, Quinn Pettenati, Hope Gouterman, Hope Fetty, Amanda Duran, Lia Kurihara
How do you feel about homecoming being held in the cafeteria instead of the gym?
I dont really see the difference. It doesnt make any sense because -Sonia Anger 16 last year they were renovating the gym, but this year they have no excuse. Whats the point? -Alex Shoop 13 Its sort of weird to have a dance in the cafeteria. -Carly Boden 16
Alcohol and Marijuana Use School and County Leads to Several Suspensions Reflect and Surpass
Eighteen students caught in the first month for using illegal substances on school grounds. by Diana McDermott 13
Gregory. The minimum consequence From the beginning of the for use of drugs and alcohol on school year through October 10, school property is a 10-day sus18 students have been suspendpension. Any distribution of ed. Not only has this number indrugs or alcohol, including giving creased from previous years, there out these substances, is a 10-day is another anomaly: suspension with all of the suspensions a recommendawere for the use of I have to make a really strong statement that it tion for expuldrugs or alcohol on is unacceptable at Sherwood. I have increased sion. However, school property. the suspension U n f o r t u n a t e - my consequence over the years in terms of is reduced by ly, there were some drug and alcohol use ... If a student does this three days if the students who made student attends poor decisions ... It behavior, the consequences are going to be the an appointment disturbed me and it most severe. with a drug and disturbed other stu~Principal Bill Gregory alcohol counseldents because it is not or. what we want people The increased to know Sherwood as, said Prin- ceptable at Sherwood. I have in- number of suspensions this year cipal Bill Gregory. creased my consequence over the could be in part because of the Among the 18 students, who years in terms of drug and alcohol distribution of drugs. Usually, if range from sophomores to ju- use ... If a student engages in this students are suspended for fightniors, some were recommend- behavior, the consequences are ed for expulsion. The offens- going to be the most severe, said see SUSPENSIONS, pg. 2 es ranged from the selling and consuming of marijuana-baked goods on school property to the drinking of alcoholic beverages at football games. I have to make a really strong statement that it is unac-
by Leah Schroeder 13
www.thewarrioronline.com
On September 24, College Board released data indicating that the average national reading score on the SAT for the graduating class of 2012 decreased to 496, the lowest it has been since 1972, and that the writing score decreased to 488, the lowest it has been since the section was first tested in 2006. The average composite score of all three sections was 1498, indicating that more than fifty percent of test-takers do not achieve a 1550 or higher, the scores that College Board deems as indicating college readiness. MCPS considers the score for college-readiness to be a 1650. Students in MCPS, on the other hand, made improvement in all three sections, while still receiving scores on the reading and writing sections that were about 20 points lower than the scores on the math section. Sherwood
students also reflected this trend. Montgomery County students improved enough to attain an average composite score of 1651, fulfilling MCPS seventh key to college readiness: to score a 1650 or higher on the SAT. The average score achieved by Sherwood students increased 30 points to a total of 1622, which is 124 points higher than the national average but still 28 points shy of meeting the 1650 benchmark. English teacher Gloria Condelli indicates that a low level of reading comprehension may stem from students willingness to accept lower grades on reading-related activities or to try and make do with Sparknotes and other websites, as they know that other assessments, especially essays, can pull them through. As much as [the English Department] can, we have decided
The WarriorNews
October 18, 2012
EWS N
in brief
The Warrior Receives Honors
As a result of the work done in the 2011-2012 school year, The Warrior has received a First-Class Rating, the second-highest rating possible from the National Scholastic Press Association (NSPA). The Warrior also received a Mark of Distinction in Coverage and Content. The NSPA praised The Warrior for its ability to highlight the successes of the school and its students, while also taking on important societal issues that are significant to its readers. The Warrior was also commended for its efforts to use more infographics to make information more easily digested and to shorten the length of its stories. The Warriors reviews, personal columns and sports features were particularly praised for their consistency and variety. Last years photography staff was commended for the strength of their sports photos. The Warrior also submitted its content to Towson Universitys Maryland High School Journalism Awards for review. The winners will be announced in November.
Last fall, a SAT-cheating ring was uncovered in New York where high school students had paid college students to take the test for them. Twenty teenagers were arrested for their involvement in the scheme. As a result of the cheating, College Board, the company that administers the SAT, and ACT Education, the company that administers the ACT, changed their security measures to inhibit cheating by requring students to submit a photo upon registration.
Incorrect
Correct
- Leah Schroeder 13
New regulations will take effect January 1 Only JPEG, GIF, and PNG file formats are accepted for photos These photos must: - be passport sized - be properly focused - be not pixelated - be correctly exposed - be taken in full-face view - be without shadows or glare - portray the student alone - match his/her appearance on test day
*Source: www.collegeboard.com
- Robel Wondimu 13
including having counselors and Carroll meet with students to discuss testing and post-secondary goals. If one looks closely at the data about our system, especially as compared to others, you see that MCPS does pretty well with our increasingly diverse population. More students than ever be-
fore are taking the SAT, students who havent traditionally taken it, said Condelli. Having said that, I will concede there is room for improvement but that cant happen exclusively between the hours of 7:25 and 2:10. Students and parents need to ask themselves if reading plays any part in their leisure activities.
- Joy Zhang 14
The WarriorNews
October 18, 2012
The result of a two-year project, the new aquarium, located in the K-wing courtyard, is now up and running.
Steffi Carrera 14
Registered Nurse Jennifer Jones instructs Security Assistant Andy Blasher on how to draw and administer glucagon, a hormone. not potentially dangerous. All security personnel are trained in CPR, Automated External Defibrillator (AED) use and First Aid. Yet, only the nurse may carry and administer an EpiPen. An epinephrine auto-injector, more commonly known as an Epi-Pen, is a medical device that delivers a dose of epinephrine (adrenaline) to a person who is experiencing severe allergic reactions. Also known as anaphylactic shock, this reaction occurs when students come into contact with the substance they are allergic to. Symptoms of this type of shock include swelling or itchiness in the lips and throat, as well as hives covering the skin. Since the symptoms have a rapid onset, it is important for the health room to have a list of students with known allergies. A new Anaphylaxis law, Maryland Senate Bill 621, was enacted this past July. Jones explained, MCPS and the Department of Health came together to decide how to comply with the new education law. MCPS took on purchasing general use Epi-Pens for unknown allergies of students If we determine that were worried a student is having a reaction, we can give them epinephrine and call 911. This piece of legislation requires all the staff in Maryland schools to have awareness training for anaphylaxis; Sherwood teachers must watch a five-minute training video, and then sign off with the school nurse afterward to verify that they have seen it. If a student has a severe allergy, he or she should let the health room know and also provide an Epi-Pen to the school. However, of the 83 students who are listed as having an allergy, only 12 have given the nurse an Epi-Pen prescribed to them. Situations where medical assistance is needed are not uncommon, so it is necessary to be well-prepared to handle every medical emergency a student may experience while inside the building. Were responsible for the safety and security of everybody, no matter what, said Blasher.
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October 18, 2012
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The WarriorPolitics
October 18, 2012
Stir Controversy
by Vicky Florian 14
Numerous states have or are trying to pass laws requiring voters to show a particular form of photo identification at the polls such as a license, passport or military ID. Supporters of the law view it as a tool against voter fraud, allowing only those legally eligible the ability to vote. Opponents view it as a violation of voting rights, unfairly impacting groups such as the poor, minorities and recent immigrants, who often lack IDs. For this reason, some see this law as a way to decrease the number of minority voters, who typically vote Democratic. Developments in a number of states have made who gets to vote nearly as much of an issue as who they vote for.
The Development, Relief and Education for Alien Minors (DREAM) Act allows illegal immigrants to pay in-state or in-county tuition at Maryland colleges. However, in order to qualify, students are required to have attended a Maryland high school for three years, and prove that their parents or themselves filed taxes.
Question 4
Agree
Disagree
Agree
65%
Disagree
35%
Illegal immigrants with an education will have a better chance of obtaining citizenship and lifting themselves out of poverty. -Devin Ganey 13
The Civil Marriage Protection Act would allow gay and lesbian couples to obtain a civil marriage license. The law also protects clergy from having to perform any particular marriage ceremony in violation of their religious beliefs, and affirms that each religious faith has exclusive control over its own theological doctrine regarding who may marry within that faith.
Question 6
Disagree
The Dream Act will only encourage more immigrants to illegally come to the United States, at the expense of taxpayers. -Drew Metrey 14
enact a t state to es the firs held two years m iana beco s up 2005- Ind ID law, which wa hoto strict p e Court. e Suprem later by th 2006- Ge orgia pas se cards at no cost to s a law providing vo registered have a dri ver s lice voters wh ter ID nse or sta o do not te issued ID card. aho by the Id is passed perlaw to sign a voter ID - Idahos ws voters ent, o 2010 e law all orn statem lature. Th n affidavit, or sw Legis ntificatio ID. sonal ide enting an ad of pres inste April 18, 20 (SAFE) A 11- Kansas Secure ct is sign and Fair ed Ele photo ide ntification into law. Voters m ctions ust show when cas ting a vote in person . to ID strict pho sissippis e. The is 2011- M y citizen initiativ tion b ovember ec N is passed -clearance under S endment pre am a be implet requires re it can mendmen g Rights Act befo a otin 5 of the V mented. January 1, 2 Kansas ta 012- Strict photo ID ke ments wil effect. The new re requirements for l begin in g 2013. On istration requirenessees s trict voter the same d ID law ta kes effect. ay, TenID law, trict photo consins s is declared unWis 2, 2012in 2011, March 1 legislature ge. by the passed state jud onal by a constituti October 2, sylvanias 2012- Judge temp orarily ha voter iden lts Pennti ber electi on. Poll w fication law for th e Novem orkers ma they mus y still ask t all for ID, bu conferenc ow those without t ID to vote e will be held on D . A status prepare fo ecember r a trial. 13, 2012, to
Agree
Agree
13% 87%
Agree
I believe that anyone, regardless of religion or sexuality, has the right to both the legal and emotional contract of marriage. -Cameron Graf 13 Love is love. If it is against your beliefs, dont do it, but why should others be able to decide who can spend their lives together? -Lauren Corlett 13
The Gaming Expansion Act would allow one additional casino to be constructed in Prince Georges County and would expand the type of games allowed at existing casinos. The money raised is intended to create jobs and contribute to education funding.
Question 7
Agree
70% 30%
Disagree
Agree
Flowing money is good for the economy. If people waste their money there, thats their own fault. Jobs and education are good. -Nick Cameron 14
Disagree
They are already sending other ancillary taxes to Baltimore. There is no point in the public spending their money on gambling. -Dani Cohen 14
The WarriorPolitics
October 18, 2012
Environmental Change
Climate change is a hazard to the world as a whole, threatening to destabilize environments and what is left of natural habitats. It is an issue that is endangering entire species of animals such as polar bears and fish populations, but Obama and Romney have neglected not to speak on this issue. Through its apathy, the general public of the United States has made it clear that this is not a major issue that needs to be talked over and debated. It is the lack of interest about the environment by many Americans that has removed it as one of the hot-button issues.
Violence in Syria
There has been a great deal of conflict in the Middle Eastern country of Syria. Civil war, unstable government and thousands of refugees rest on the violent governments shoulders. This is a global issue that the presidential candidates conveniently left out of their platforms. Obama and Romney are reluctant to make promises that they may be unable to keep regarding military intervention or other actions. Adding Syria to the platform may just make it political fodder in future elections.
Americas Poor
As the presidential candidates strive to enlarge the amount of money that middle class families have at their disposal, they have left out a large demographic of people: the lower class. The current economic plans of Obama and Romney focus on the middle class because they do not want to anger a powerful segment of the voting American population. Poverty has been a growing issue in the world and in the United States ever since the beginning of the 2008 global recession. Unfortunately for those in grim economic situations, neither candidate will likely win or lose the election on the votes of poor Americans.
The WarriorFeatures
October 18, 2012
Jamie Langbein 13
Jamie Langbein 13
Jamie Langbein 13
CARA LAPIDARIO 13
I have no idea what I want to major in. I am just applying and seeing where I get in, and then eventually where I end up. And I want to have fun.
NIKKI STEINER 13
Ive always loved biology and math and [creating prosthetic robots is] a career that kind of perfectly blends the two subjects. And itd let me work with people, which I really want to be able to do.
SYDNEY SUNDELL 13
Being in yearbook has taught me a lot about the different aspects of media and working with other people to create a product. I feel like Ive gotten a lot of real world experience that will help me in college. investigated their major typically seem to be students with above average GPA and SAT/ ACT scores, observed Hock. If you go to college with a major in mind, just make sure it is the one youre truly comfortable with, advised Dibler. If you dont have a major in mind, dont panic. Things will fall into place. Start by identifying what you dont want to major in [and] take a variety of classes that interest you. I took an astronomy class and will never forget seeing the red spot of a marble-sized Jupiter at the universitys observatory.
have twice as many openings as we have workers who can do the job openings at a time when millions of Americans are looking for work. Its inexcusable. And we know how to fix it. Several studies conducted by the Georgetown Center on Education and the Workforce have shown that jobs are going unfilled because students arent aligning post-secondary education choices with careers that need workers. However, this does not mean that every student looking to apply to college this year needs to become an engineer or study a less
populated major. It just means that high school students might want to carefully consider available jobs and practicality before deciding on an official major. For most colleges, choosing a major is not an application requirement. Many colleges are flexible, and if a student wants to change his or her major it is an option, but the switch may have consequences, like extra courses or semesters. English teacher Beth Dibler was originally a chemistry major, but added another major halfway through college. At the start of
my junior year [of college], I really started missing the type of schedule I had in high school. I missed English and history classes, Dibler explained. I looked into adding English as a second degree and found that it was possible to complete in two years. College and Career Advisor Joe Hock says that, generally, not knowing what major one is interested in will not affect ones ability to get into a college or to be successful in the future. However, students who know what they want to study [and] have researched and
SOPHIE SWEENEY 12
I didnt know what I wanted to do as a job when I did my applications. Everyone told me not to apply undecided, so I didnt. I just applied under Environmental Studies or Psychology. At most schools you dont run into problems switching majors once youre accepted unless youre interested in a competitive or special program.
Make a chart of all the things you have to get done and by when, and actually do them. College applications are way too important to procrastinate and end up making things up on the spot.
Play to your strengths on your college essays. Write it in a way that makes you feel comfortable. If your teacher wants you to write abstractly but that doesnt work for you, dont follow the teachers advice. Write it how you want and ultimately, go where you want to go. Your parents arent going to college, youre going to college. Go somewhere thats in a good location and can help you get the best opportunities.
The WarriorFeatures
October 18, 2012
R BEFO
AFTE
Social studies resource teacher Joe Sangillo lost a total of 130 pounds over about a year and a half. After his amazing weight loss transformation, Sangillo plans to participate in the Marine Corps Marathon on October 28. its uncomfortable sometimes. Sangillo has inspired various groups of people, from his family to his colleagues, and his relationships with his students have been positively influenced by his new outlook. Being able to connect with his students with a new perspective enables him to become an even better role model. During his journey, he began using a motto to inspire and motivate his classes: If theres something you dont like about yourself, change it. In his life, he says there is no particular person he would call his hero. If you are looking for heroes, be your own hero, he said. No ones going to climb Mount Everest for you.
The WarriorFeatures
October 18, 2012
Four out of five students bring bag lunches to avoid lines and to have more food choices.
Pictured from left are Italian teacher Ilenia Di Cesare, art teacher Allison Shafer and French teacher Amy Gahagen. All three are part-time teachers.
Bridget Cook 14
A group of sophomores enjoy their lunch period in the B Hall. Every student in the picture brought their lunch. students thought they sometimes did and only one percent of students thought they never bring enough lunch. In addition to students not going hungry, nearly 60 percent said they always eat healthy lunches. I always bring some sort of fruit, and instead of mayonnaise I use mustard on my sandwich, noted junior Andi Hopkins. Furthermore, 75 percent of the students that pack lunch mostly carry sandwiches, 15 percent bring salad and 10 percent put together leftovers for lunch. I like bringing a sandwich because its pretty easy to make and its filling, explained senior Simran Gupta.
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The WarriorHumor
October 18, 2012
Just a Friend
by Robel Wondimu 13
I never understood why people say high school is going to be the best experience of your life or the most fun youll ever have. Maybe, if you plan on being homeless when youre older. Oh wait, most of the people who think high school is the most fun theyll ever have will be homeless when theyre older. Everyone knows who Im talking about. Its always the frat boy types that frequent every party, drink, smoke and get with every girl. I also never understood why girls are so into these idiots who dont seem to have too bright of a future ahead. Ive always tried so hard to not be that guy: the guy who gets the girl, but for all the wrong reasons. Ive always tried to be a decent gentleman, and this often gets misunderstood as a sign of weakness, homosexuality or mistaken religion (conservative orthodox boy in this case). On Twitter and Facebook you always see girls complain about how all guys are jerks or dont understand anything, when half the time they put themselves into a bad situation. I dont know if girls are actually into the dumb, rebel kid who is an idiot in school, but if they are they need to set their sights and standards a lot higher. Ladies, he is no good. In my case I think Ive done all the right things and still get sidelined as just a friend. And I know Im not just some misunderstood loner because its a common occurrence among the group of friends I associate with. I usually find the idea of karma to be psychosomatic, but in
Cal Wilson 14
Above are the six hall passes given to Rosa Parks students every quarter. Coveted like Willy Wonkas golden tickets, Rosa Parks student Chase Wilson has already filled them all out in pen so they cannot be stolen.
Bridget Cook 14
this case I find it to be relieving. This is because I know some guys may have their time to shine now by playing every sport and being in, but in the future, when things matter, is my domain. I plan on doing something meaningful with my life beyond superficial high school partying and chasing tail. For all you other hopeless romantics out there, dont even sweat it. High school is not a defining time for the rest of your life or even an indicator of how youll fare in future relationships. I like to remind myself that high school relationships are only a quick fling and rarely last. It would be easier to avoid the drama that comes with it than get involved in the first place.
The Senior
by Diana McDermott 13
The WarriorHumor
October 18, 2012
11
Obama told Sasha and Malia that Santa was not real ... they were 2 and 5 years old.
Romney orders a free water cup at Chipotle ... fills it with Coke.
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The WarriorOpinions
October 18, 2012
Staff Editorial:
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In Our Opinion
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ublished six times a year, The Warrior serves as Sherwood High Schools premier news source. Over the decades, it has collected numerous state and national honors in recognition of the publications superior content and design. With a staff of 31 students and one advisor, The Warrior works to keep the Sherwood community apprised of local and national events. All opinions articles represent the viewpoint of the writer. The unsigned staff editorials solely represent the opinions of the newspaper staff. These articles do not necessarily represent the views of Sherwood High School. The Warrior welcomes Letters to the editor of 250 words or less. They may be submitted to room C268 or emailed to thewarrioronline.shs@gmail.com. Letters must be signed, and all content received by the newspaper is subject to editing. The Warrior staff invites feedback and corrections to printed inaccuracies. The Warrior reserves the right to refuse advertisements.
When homecoming season comes around each year, critics of Sherwoods school spirit propose various explanations for why this year isnt as spirited as last year and what may cause some students to become more apathetic about their school climate. You are likely to see plenty of people attending football games and a few over-the-top Spirit Week fanatics, but we want to know: does true spirit still exist at Sherwood like it used to? The week of homecoming certainly is the peak of school spirit, yet, ironically, it also reveals the aspects of this years Spirit Week that fail to live up to the Sherwood legacy. School spirit, as a tradition, only weakens from this point in the year onward, so if the bar isnt set high enough now, it can make for a somewhat mediocre year. Who is to blame for this fading school spirit? School spirit will always reflect back on the students themselves; they are the faces of the school and are responsible for representing it suitably. Some years its simply the lack of enthusiastic people that undermines school spirit. The attitudes of todays youth are constantly changing, and perhaps being as spirited isnt in style right now. One must not overlook the school itself for
limiting Sherwoods potential for school spirit. Prohibiting students from painting their chests at football games is just one example of how administration is keeping spirit from reaching its full potential. A sense of over-concern, even paranoia, seems to guide Sherwoods rules about permissible behavior at athletic events. Let teens be teens at the appropriate time and place. Crazily enthusiastic fans should be celebrated, not forbidden. For example, Quince Orchard fans arrived in the hundreds for their away game against Sherwood back on August 31. This large, established group of fans call themselves The Red Army because they go to every game, both home and away, wear their red school color and bring their signature cheers and chants. Since the school alters the instructional schedule to incorporate a pep rally, it should take the next step of finding new ways to build momentum during the event and avoid using the same material as years past. Revitalize school spirit by not giving students what they expect. Get a Warrior mascot to run around during football games, shoot t-shirt guns and treat the most spirited students with free or discounted tickets to future games. These are the little touches that make homecoming week memorable and appealing to students who dont normally participate.
Staff
Executive Editor .................................................. Leah Schroeder 13 Print Managing Editors ............................................ Diana McDermott 13 Robel Wondimu 13 News Editors ......................................................... Jessica Carrera 13 Mandy Stussman 14 Politics Editor ...........................................................Vicky Florian 14 Features Editors ...................................................... Mary Macrae 14 Connor Martin 13 Humor Editors ...................................................... Andrew Wasik 13 Cal Wilson 14 Spotlight Editor ................................................ Sydney Morrison 13 Opinions Editors ................................................. Melissa Fajardo 13 Whitney Marie Halaby 14 Wondering Warrior Editor....................................... Jenni Kenel 14 Entertainment Editors ................................ Michaela ODonnell 13 Maria Claudia Garcia-Rada 13 Sports Editors ...................................................... Jamie Langbein 13 Joey Lavoie 14 Online Managing Content Editor .................................. Michael Natelli 14 Managing Technical Editor .................................... Shaan Verma 13 Page Editors ........................................................... Brendan Cudd 14 Joy Zhang 14 Content and Copy Managing Content Director ...................................... Alex Porter 13 Content and Copy Editors ............................. Briana Applewhite 13 Steffi Carrera 14 Alyssa Miller 13 Nick Mourtoupalas 13 Evan Schwartz 13 Managing Photographers ....................................... Bridget Cook 14 Taylor Fernandes 14 Pollster ............................................................. Katie Mercogliano 14 Business Director ...................................... Whitney Marie Halaby 14
by Emma Hierholzer 15
The WarriorOpinions
October 18, 2012
One Mans Olney Is Another Mans Treasure
by Nick Mourtoupalas 13
We are born onto this planet, our home, yet we are limited to its few continents. Individuals just like yourself share identical feelings, but are fated to another side of the same world. Those who witness what is beyond their home return with something more than photos; they bring with them an irreplaceable collection of mental records of the different ways people talk, think and act. For many of us, that home is Olney, Maryland: a town many people my age whine about for its lack of excitement and excess of places to get fat. All the newest attractions, when they actually arrive, fester with prepubescent giggles, leaving no room for insatiable high school students itching to get their Friday night fix. I ask of you, get out of here, not just out of Olney, but out of the state. Although I find Olney a great place to spend most of my teen years, no adolescent should have to stay in a single place for that long. Even if the only way out of the state is staying with your vexing relatives for a week in Texas, take the opportunity. One mans Olney is another mans treasure. So many teenagers fail to see all the intangible incentives of traveling, even to the most uneventful locales. Just as knowing a second language helps you to more deeply understand another culture, seeing first-hand the way different people act widens ones understanding of the human universal language, or simply the behaviors people exhibit regardless of their background. Over time, a backlog of information gathered from around the world forms and you become that much closer to social nirvana, enabling you to adapt to new cultures and make better relationships with ease. You may end up getting a job on the other side of the country one day, and knowing beforehand the personality of the city and its people could determine what job you get, and ultimately, if you are happy. Traveling the world at the age of 17 is not all that attainable; however available methods of seeing the world beyond Olney certainly exist, including registering for Sherwoods spring break trip, participating in exchange programs or planning to study abroad in college. These options are pricey, but they allow you to travel with your friends and make sure you actually learn something along the way. Discovering the world develops a very special appreciation for the stories people have to tell and a new sense of sympathy for others peoples problems. Mental treasures such as these are quickly reflected in ones behavior and speech. There is an ocean of opportunities out there just waiting to be explored, so dive in.
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TO THE POINT
The Unlucky 2013
by Alyssa Miller 13
It all started with the academies, in which the Class of 2013 was required to sign up for courses based on a particular academic concentration. When the school realized the academies were unpopular and inconvenient, they were quickly made optional. Although that idea failed, the introduction of the academies began a pattern in which the same class remained the chosen test subjects for all of Sherwoods and MCPS latest and greatest ideas. The next significant change occurred with a sudden reduction in available courses. Past students had a variety of classes available to take for their tech credit, whereas the Class of 2013 had only two. Having only Foundations of Technology and Engineering may have been a bummer, but at least the Class of 2013 had prom to look forward to, right? Wrong. Junior prom kicked the bucket just when our class finally became eligible to attend the event. Just a year later, we are now the first class required to apply for college online. A paperless application may sound convenient, but the idea has a few minor drawbacks in that nobody actually knows how to apply, the school is still learning, and already clueless parents and students are even more lost than before. Yes, change is a necessity in the ever-growing community of MCPS, but is it really necessary to try out every idea on the poor guinea pigs of 2013?
My Take
accepted into college and this daunting process is over. Trust me, Im already counting down the days.
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The WarriorOpinions
October 18, 2012
pro
On August 5, 2012, congregants at a Sikh temple in Wisconsin were interrupted from their worship by a terrifying burst of gunfire, and within moments, seven lay dead. Just a month earlier, viewers at a midnight premiere of The Dark Knight Rises in Colorado fled for their lives amidst a chaotic, gruesome scene, at the end of which 142 lay dead and nearly 60 were injured due to a gunman. A year before that, U.S. Representative Gabrielle Giffords stood upon a podium in a supermarket parking lot, when, moments later, a stream of gunshots fired through the air, injuring Giffords along with 13 others and killing six. The list does not stop there. Tragedy winds through our history from border to border. Virginia Tech in 2007, Columbine in 1999, University of Texas in 1966. Though the date, situation and victims vary, all these events are connected through guns, and their counterpart, death. Something must change. The solution? Gun control. With an increase in regulations, state governments could make it more difficult for non-law abiding citizens, like those with criminal backgrounds or mental illness, to obtain firearms. The United Kingdom has one of the strictest set of gun laws in the world and its system works. The proof lies in the statistics. In 2009, there were 0.073 recorded intentional homicides committed with a firearm per 100,000 inhabitants; compared to 3.0 in the United States, which is about 40 times higher. The right to own a gun should not be taken away, just restricted. Right now, laws provide for an irrational leniency. There were four weapons used in the massacre at the Colorado theater, including an AR-15 rifle, the semi-automatic civilian version of the U.S. militarys M-16, which can fire up to 60 shots in one minute. Additionally, in the 60 days leading up to the massacre, the shooter bought more than 6,000 rounds of ammunition at gun shops and over the Internet, and no one questioned him. Military style weapons should not be available to the public. Citizens should not be able to carry concealed weapons on their person. Thorough background checks should be issued before purchase. How many people must die before we realize this? The government needs to protect citizens from the danger of weapons of modern warfare. It needs to keep guns off the streets and out of the hands of murderers. It needs to restrict gun usage, and as a result, save lives.
-Mandy Stussman 14
In light of terrible shootings, such as the Batman massacre in a Colorado movie theater, the call for restrictions on guns became louder. New York Mayor Michael Bloomberg, co-founder of Mayors Against Illegal Guns, is one of many who support gun control; he has proposed that background checks be done at gun shows so that no one with a criminal record or history of mental health issues is able to purchase firearms. Others have introduced similar ideas, like the United Nations which recommended a Programme of Action this past July that aims to combat the illicit trade and use of small arms by developing an internationally accepted set of standards for dealing with the issue. However, gun control is not a sure fire way to decrease homicide rates. Placing restrictions on guns through legislation is not directly correlated to lower crime rates. In fact, the National Center for Policy Analysis reported that among the fifteen states with the highest homicide rates, ten have restrictive or very restrictive gun laws. Though the purpose of restrictions on arms may be to prevent guns from falling in the hands of felons and the mentally ill, its effectiveness is not ensured and comes at a steep price. Criminals can always find ways of obtaining weapons, especially guns, and restrictions would leave law-abiding citizens defenseless. James Holmes, the gunman who killed 12 people in the Colorado theater last summer, was seeing a psychiatrist and seeking help from the school where he studied before the shooting. This evidence of his insanity is a testimony to the fact that even mentally deranged people can obtain firearms if they are determined to do so, making the efforts of the restrictions seem futile. Since it is absolutely impossible for guns not to fall in the hands of the wrong people, the concealed weapons laws in states across the country have permitted law abiding citizens access to some sort of individual protection instead of relying fully on authorities. The right to carry a concealed weapon is decided at the state level, and 49 states have passed laws allowing citizens to carry certain concealed firearms in public (only Illinois has completely banned it). If a person had a concealed gun in that movie theater last summer, things couldve ended very differently for the deceased and their loved ones. Gun control isnt going to stop people from killing each other, it will only limit the individual protection people have.
con
-Steffi Carrera 14
by Alex Porter 13
A background in business is the new vogue accessory for American candidates running for elected office. Republican presidential nominee Mitt Romney has largely based his campaign on his experience in private industry, asserting that it is essential to his task of being President of the United States. While Romney and many other politicians have had illustrious business careers, their conflation of it with political ability and good governance is misguided. Focusing on reducing yearly costs instead of running the best government for the people harms the common good of the American citizenry.
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Happy Halloween!
scariest at is the e ever Wh v e you ha movi seen?
The haunt ing in Conn ecticut. -Matta San noh 13
A documentary o
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t pa r ite reams? sc
Glow i nt vampir he dark et didnt t eeth. They aste ve ry good. -Andi Ho pkins 1 4
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The WarriorEntertainment
October 18, 2012
Movie Reviews
The New Breakfast Club
by Mary Macrae 14
Every generation of teens has had its defining movie, that film which captures how teens are feeling and thinking at that time. The quirky coming-of-age film The Perks of Being a Wallflower, based on the 1999 critically acclaimed novel, might just be that movie for this generation. Readers of the novel would probably be a bit skeptical before walking into the theater. They probably could not imagine a movie capturing the novels essence and translating well on screen, but under the guidance of director Stephen Chbosky, who is also the writer of the novel, the movie successfully incorporates and eliminates certain elements of the novel, which should leave readers satisfied. The film follows a very shy and troubled young boy named Charlie, who encounters a group of misfits and an English teacher who help him find himself during his freshmen year. Logan Lerman plays Charlie phenomenally, capturing Charlies essence so that viewers cant help but root for him. He walks the line between weird and quirky, which is reflective of the novel. Actress Emma Watson plays the wild yet sensitive Sam through deeply emotional moments. In the film, every single character portrays authenticity and genuineness that keeps the audience interested and invested. Viewers will actually care and wonder what happens to them because of their uninhibitedness and compassion. The Perks of Being a Wallflower has a good balance of darkness and lightheartedness that has the viewer laughing at some points while crying at others. The film deals with some serious issues in a very humorous, yet intense way: for instance, when Charlie reveals the death of a friend to someone, he does so when he is high on drugs and making a smoothie. This movie is about real teenagers, not like the brain-dead teenagers in American Pie, Project X or Road Trip. Students will actually see the characters in The Perks of Being a Wallflower in their very own high schools, and even in themselves.
The WarriorEntertainment
October 18, 2012
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Music Reviews
Mirage Rock Rises From Mediocrity
by Mandy Stussman 14
Passion is a difficult emotion to pinpoint. The exhilaration of living and the deep swoops of aching that being alive can bring all the emotions of subsisting can be found within Band of Horses celestial new album Mirage Rock, a reviving breath of fresh air after the bands gaudy previous album Infinite Arms, which seemed to be the beginning of the end for the band. Mirage Rock manages to rekindle their distinct sound that was hidden on their previous album. The band constructed a graceful album with a hopeful tone always lingering in the background. Producer Glyn Johns got it just right. The band found their voice again, and even managed to create a street-corner-simple sort of sound. The blatant honesty of the album seeps into the listener. The band incorporates an amplitude of emotions; anger and frustration in Dumpster World, agony in Slow, Cruel Hands of Time, and the dreaminess of romance in Long Vows. No one instrument dominates and the vocals find a nice balance. The familiar, harmonic dominance of Ramseys lead vocals allows the album to swirl through songs and gives it a temperate, stringy feel, especially dominant in Everythings Gonna Be Undone, a country ballad with Bridwell providing the harmonies to Ramseys lead vocals. The new album manages to take the listener on a fervid journey. It refuses to pause for even a moment, with flawless transitions and an off-beat rhythm that stays stuck in ones head for hours after listening. Even the slower songs, like Heartbreak On the 101, keep moving in a syrupy, nostalgic kind of way. The albums only flaw lies in the fact that it never has the listener sitting on the edge of ones chair. It lacked the itchy disturbance aspect, or ghoulish sound. Every song had a warm, earnest feel to it, which faithfully followed the theme of honesty, though an edge to a few songs could have given the album an even more dramatic, lasting effect. Still, the album is one to keep in a collection. Johns did a nearly flawless job and rid the band of their undistinguished Infinite Arms. Mirage Rock, has the potential to lead the band to new heights and deserved fame. Theres no holding these horses.
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The WarriorEntertainment
October 18, 2012
graphic by Michaela ODonnell 13
The WarriorSports
October 18, 2012
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by Cal Wilson 14
For 13 years, the Arrows ice hockey team has played without the support or recognition of Sherwood, its only source of players since its formation. However, this season, they will step on the ice in brand new jerseys with Warriors printed in blue across their chests for the first time. The team will be starting their upcoming season as the Sherwood Ice Hockey Club, sponsored by Christine McKeldin, marking a victory in obtaining recognition from the school. The team has been fighting to earn this privilege for years. People would stop me in the hallway and ask me why I am wearing a red jacket for the hockey team and I had to take 20 minutes to explain to them we werent school recognized, commented senior Dalton Thomas, an Arrow from freshman to junior year and finally a Warrior his senior year. The team, however, is not school-sponsored and is not considered a school sport. This comes with some drawbacks, like how they cannot use the name Sherwood alongside the name Warriors or show up on the list
Cal Wilson 14
Before the team was a Sherwood club, they had red jerseys with an Arrows logo on the front, as shown on the left. The new jerseys, as shown on the right, sport Sherwoods blue and white colors and the Warriors logo on the front, marking the teams official status as a Sherwood club. of school sports. The Warriors [name] and using the blue means [it] all to the guys, said Coach Chris Leonard. These are kids that show up for the first time as freshmen and get handed a red, white and black jersey and are wondering whats going on when the schools colors are blue and white, so its really nice to be able to finally have the kids suit up in blue and white. Leonard has been coaching the team for 15 years and is finally seeing the team become more a part of Sherwood. Although players must meet the same standards as other Sherwood athletes, they are still viewed as a sports team equivalent to that of the Olney Boys and Girls Club. This decision stems from the liability and cost associated with sponsoring a hockey team, and also the fact that the athletic director of Montgomery County, William Beatty, has yet to make a unified decision on what a school can or cannot do with its hockey team. The team is not pushing for a school sponsorship and is perfectly content with being a school club at the moment. Its been exciting because its been a long time coming, said Leonard.
Michael Natelli 14
Senior Donte Thomas sacks Magruders quarterback in Sherwoods 41-0 defeat of Magruder on October 5. The Warriors look to continue success against Paint Branch at home tomorrow night. es, the Panthers only two wins of the year have come against 1-6 Rockville and 1-6 Magruder, who have been shut out in four out of their seven games this season and have yet to score double-digit points in a single contest. This is not to say that statistics are the beall, end-all, because anything can happen in any given week, but stats certainly help when dealing with rosters of high school teams that change yearly. One thing that can serve as a great comparison is last weeks 47-3 win the Warriors constructed against Springbrook. As Coach Mike Bonavia noted, Springbrook and Paint Branch are just as athletic, so if thats the case, all odds point to Sherwood walking out with a W on Friday. The key to the game will be the Warriors sticking to their balanced playbook, and that starts with the running game. Senior running back Moses Vines and
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The WarriorSports
October 18, 2012 Seniors Williams and DeMoya Set Goals Playing at Chelsea FC Soccer Academy
by Andrew Wasik 13
Playing at the next level is a dream held by many student-athletes at Sherwood but few have a chance to actually pursue the dream. Seniors Ernest Williams and Jonny DeMoya have been given the opportunity to make their dreams come true by playing for The Baltimore Bays Chelsea U18 academy. Williams, primarily a right midfielder, is being recruited for soccer by schools like The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and Georgetown. This [academy] is the next step from high school, and then after this my goal is to play for a Division I college, said Williams. DeMoya, who is catching the attention of coaches at schools such as Temple and University of Maryland Baltimore College, has the more difficult task of being a goalkeeper. I think its harder trying to make a team as a goalie. DeMoya explained, We dont have the opportunities position players have; they can come in and play 15 minutes off the bench while if I dont start in goal I dont play. Through playing for the club team in Baltimore, Williams and DeMoya have the unique opportunity to move up through the academy system of Chelsea, a professional football club in the English Premier League. The team travels around the country, going as far as Texas and California, playing other teams academies. The teams season coincides with Sherwoods season, although the Academy practices year round. After completing a grueling tryout to make the team, Chelsea has the rights to both players. Neither DeMoya or Williams could play for another team unless Chelsea gave away the rights of the players. Although playing at an academy is the next step on the way to college and possibly the pros, it comes with a cost. All academies countrywide have adopted new rules that dont allow academy players to also play for high school teams in order to try to cut down on injuries. I think it feels pretty good playing at the next level, but its disappointing not being able to play for Sherwood, said DeMoya I know its for the best in the long run, though. Williams agrees, adding, I like playing at the next level because there is more skill and its harder, but I definitely miss playing with all the guys on the team. While they have to sacrifice playing for their school team and give up most of their weekends for traveling and practice, Demoya and Williams made the commitment to their teams in the hope to someday play on a professional soccer pitch.
Jamie Langbein 13
Senior Vik Siberry leads Sherwood to a boys split, losing to Wootton and beating Whitman on October 9.
Dino Zagami 14
Junior Gabrielle Yore leads the Warriors in a charge down the field against Paint Branch. The Warriors went on to win 6-0. A Good Counsel transfer, Yore has lead the team with 14 goals so far this season. playoffs, they already have developed strong bonds between members of the team, which help them to keep their cool during high pressure situations. I can sense when teammates are stressed or frustrated during a game and Ive learned that helps no one if everyone feels like that, said Sannoh. The girls look up to Sannoh, the captain of the team, for encouragement before games and during practices. Even as they become a force in Montgomery County, the Lady Warriors make sure that it does not get to their heads. Typically, they work hard at practice or games six days a week, usually lasting for three hours each day. The team puts in 101-percent effort. We push each other to work hard and always focus on what needs to be improved on, said junior Haroula Tzamaras, who has scored twice this season. Because of the complexity of their attacks, the girls and Morse are seeing more coaches come out to their games to figure out their strategies when playing games. We think in terms of supporting the forward momentum of the ball by ensuring there is support behind the person with the ball, said Morse. The Lady Warriors have high hopes and expectations for the rest of the season. Last year, the Lady Warriors called themselves the Dream Team. This year, the girls not only have a dream team, but are a real force to be reckoned with.
The WarriorSports
October 18, 2012
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Jamie Langbein 13
Junior Makayla Roy spikes the ball on one of her 10 kills against Gaithersburg on October 10. The Warriors went on to win 3-0 addition, Geller is averaging 1.4 digs per set, in limited appearances from both players. On Monday, the Lady Warriors defeated 13-3 Richard Montgomery 3-0 (25-19, 25-14, 25-10), who the Lady Warriors defeated last season in the state semifinals. The Rockets jumped on the Warriors quickly and took a lead in the first set. The Lady Warriors stormed back with a fury of kills by Holston and Roy. In the semifinal last season, the Rockets took a set from the Warriors, though, one of the few they lost the entire season. The Lady Warriors, ranked number 1 by the Washington Post in the metropolitan area, will not have an easy road to Ritchie Coliseum. They will face the Washington Posts seventh-ranked Damascus squad next Wednesday on senior night, when captains Holston, Parker and Moyer will play their last regular season game in Sherwoods gym. Also, the Lady Warriors may have to face a consistently strong eighthranked Arundel squad from Anne Arundel County, who they beat in last years state championship. Our final games of the season are against some really tough competition, which I love, said McCarty. It will really push us to reach our highest levels of play and see if we are ready to be mentally tough come playoff time.
would be stupid not to make immediate use of every ounce of Griffins talent. They argue that injury is a possibility at all times on the football field. This is true. But one cannot deny that when Griffin runs there is a greater chance he will get injured. As a passer in the pocket, he has 300plus pound offensive linemen blocking for him. When he runs, it is often just him against multiple defenders. The football world saw how the Redskins would handle the situation, as Griffin was cleared to play and named week six starter against the Minnesota Vikings. In this Sundays game, the Redskins showed that they would continue to run designed quarterback running plays, as Griffin carried the ball thirteen times for two touchdowns, at least half of which were designed. One of those designed rushing plays was an explosive 76 yard quarterback draw that ended with Griffin running into the end zone and doing his own version of the Lambeau leap. When he ran the ball throughout the game, Griffin played smarter than he did before. On multiple occasions, he ran out of bounds or slid to protect himself from big hits. His wise decisions running reflected maturity and also coaching. But wise running wont cut it in many cases. Redskins fans cannot let themselves get seduced by Griffins 76-yard touchdown run. The necessity to cut back on designed quarterback runs is still apparent. Hopefully it doesnt take another concussion for the Redskins to realize that they need to make a change. Griffin cant lead the Redskins to the playoffs if hes standing on the sidelines. Crooks is currently enrolled in Journalism.
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The WarriorSports
October 18, 2012
Boys Soccer
Football
Record: 5-2 Next Game: 10/19 vs PB
Golf
Record: 16-1-1 Next Match: Season Over
Cross Country
R E C A P S
compiled by Jamie Langbein 13 and Joey Lavoie 14; photos by Jamie Langbein 13 Michael Natelli 14 and Gary Peters
a s o f o c t o b e r 1 6
Girls Soccer
Record: 8-1 Next Game: 10/18 vs PB
Volleyball
Record:11-0 Next Game: 10/18 vs Blake
Field Hockey
Record: 12-0 Next Game: Playoffs
Girls T ennis
Record: 7-5 Next Match: Playoffs