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Inside: News: 1-3, Rock n Roll: 4-5, Features: 6-8, Humor: 9, Spotlight: 10-11, Opinions: 12-15,Wondering Warrior: 16, Entertainment: 17-18, Sports: 19-20
Warrior
Sherwood High School 300 Olney-Sandy Spring Road, Sandy Spring, MD 20860
March 7, 2014
pg. 4-5
Homework completion is, by default, grade inflation, commented social studies teacher Beth Shevitz. Giving students points for simply completing an assignment is automatically boosting their grades. According to MCPS policy, 10 percent of a students overall grade must come from completion assignments where students are awarded points based not on achievement or comprehension of a concept, but on whether they completed the homework assignment. Social studies resource teacher Christine McKeldin agrees that completion assignments are an easy way to raise a grade that is not necessarily justified. I dont like giving grades for completion because I often feel that when I do, I am rewarding students for what theyre supposed to be doing, said McKeldin. Another possible explanation for higher grades is an unintentional lack of awareness in regard to assignments point values. Teachers may not be applying point values that correlate with purpose. For
by Steffani Carerra 14
High school grades, particularly GPAs, have long been an important aspect of the college admissions process; however, as a steady trend of increasingly higher grades among students continues, speculation rises as to whether these grades are truly an accurate indication of a students knowledge. Grade inflation, or receiving higher grades for work that has remained at a constant level of rigor, is an increasingly significant problem in high schools nationwide. While many teachers agree that this trend occurs at Sherwood, there are various explanations as to the cause of the problem.
www.thewarrioronline.com
The WarriorNews
2
March 7, 2014
by Michael Natelli 14 For many newscasters (spe cifically, sportscasters) around the world, covering the Olym pics is considered the pinnacle of their journalistic career. While shes not quite there yet, aspiring newscaster and Sherwood gradu ate Abby Isaacs (12) did have a gold medal-worthy experience at the 2014 Winter Games interning with NBC. Now a sophomore at Syracuse University, Isaacs is studying as a broadcast/digital journalism and political science
S W E N
in brief
Task Force To Address Cybercivility
by Stephen Luckey 15
After Superintendent Joshua Starr released an open letter to the public regarding a social media incident, MCPS has embarked on an effort to form a task force in which parents, students and adults will develop strategies to raise awareness of the need for cybercivility in MCPS online communication. With almost 200 volunteers, the group will have arranged gatherings once every month. The issue of cybercivility was prompted after a bitter cold morning last December when some students took to Twitter and attacked Starr with vulgar and threatening remarks for not canceling school promptly. On December 13, Starr sent out a letter to the community condemning the tweets as offensive and disturbing. He also stated the need for a community-wide dialogue on how to teach students to be safe and civil online. The Cybercivility Task Force will guide the creation of tools that encourage conversations on the use of social media and other technologies. The Cybercivility Task Force will be a critical resource in our ongoing efforts to help our students understand how to use technology and social media appropriately, said Starr in a MCPS press release. This work isnt easy, but it is my hope that we can help school communities and families talk about how to use social media in positive and productive ways.
dual major. Every two years, NBC runs an internship program (largely through Syracuse) that allows college students to intern at either the Summer or Winter Games, and after she was accepted into the program, Isaacs found herself in Sochi, Russia as an NBC Olympic guide at the Sochi Winter Olympics. As a guide, Isaacs assisted tourists with getting on and off buses, in and out of hotels and venues, and answering tourists questions about events and athletes. [I met] so many amazing and talented people, said Isaacs. The former Warrior newspaper staffer and host of the Sherwood morning show Warrior WakeUp said she hopes to host a show like Good Morning America in the future, and had a brush with fame when she met with renowned newscaster Matt Lauer. Isaacs also had the chance to meet several Olympic stars like former figure skater Kristie Yamaguchi, current figure skaters Meryl Davis, Charlie White and Gracie Gold, and Team USA Hockey stars Zach Parise, Patrick Kane and Jonathan Quick.
Sherwood graduate Abby Isaacs (right) poses with snowboarder Jamie Anderson who won a gold medal in Womens Slopestyle Event. Additionally, Isaacs attended the Opening Ceremonies and seven different events. My favorite parts would [have] to be the Opening Ceremonies, getting a tour of Olympic Park and meeting so many people, stated Isaacs. While much was made in the media about questionable hospitality conditions for athletes and reporters, Isaacs wasnt too inconvenienced. The only issue was that the water was undrinkable and you had to let the water in the shower run for a few seconds before using it, Isaacs said. I didnt have any bad experiences as far as housing. I stayed in the Heliopark in Rosa Khutor, by the mountain cluster. The facilities were great, [and had] good food. Now that the Olympics are over, Isaacs will be spending the rest of her semester studying abroad in London, but is making sure to visit sites before classes start in March. NBC takes a lot of applicants from Syracuse University so [Syracuse] made a special study abroad program [in London] for us so that we could intern in Sochi and then take classes, said Isaacs. Starting March 2, Im taking four classes. Until then, Im traveling around Europe.
The WarriorNews
March 7, 2014
Haley Whitt 15
Energy-saving lamps provide ambient lighting in computer lab A109. in conserving energy, they plan to further save energy by looking into cutting-edge technologies like LED lighting. tested out all the new postures they could maneuver in the spacious desks, said language resource teacher John Falls. I like the new desks because they are larger and I can move them around more, said sophomore Nolan Naik, a student in Falls class. The fact that the chair is separate from the desk is nice, because it allows me to move around a bit. Newer schools, like Paint Branch, have had all their desks replaced with the new Zuma desks, according to Hoyle. She additionally said that MCPS is planning on making Zuma desks the new standard. If MCPS central office ultimately decides on making these new Zuma desks standard, all classrooms, except those with tables instead of desks, will have them. Though a time frame for when the replacement will take place has not been announced, it is likely to happen within the next few years. My only concern is that they may not fit into a smaller classroom, said French teacher Amy Gahagen.
- Connor Loughran 15
of high grades can approach 75 percent. Of the 314 students who take AP Language and AP Literature, for example, 23.6 percent received an A for the first semester and 51.3 percent received a B. Such a high percentage of As and Bs stands in stark contrast to the method of grading on a curve, in which assigning grades is designed to yield a pre-determined distribution of grades among the students in a class. This method is based on the belief that a grade of C truly represents the average for the class. Therefore, approximately 70 percent of the students should get a C, with as few as five percent of students receiving an A in the class. The problem is Cs and Bs used to be okay, but now, because we know the way people from the outside will be viewing it were more reluctant to give out Cs We know what kind of work it is but a college is going to look at it as below average, said science teacher Mary Baker. While grade inflation may seem beneficial for students, it actually results in lasting negative consequences. As more students receive higher grades, the grade distribution grows more crowded at the top, leading many school systems, such as MCPS, to refrain from releasing class rank. Withholding this information makes it harder for a college to find meaningful distinctions between applicants, which is detrimental to a students chances of getting in. As grades become less reliable, the emphasis on standardized testing increases as it is a form in which all students are judged by the same criteria. Additionally, any schools without grade inflation are penalizing their students by giving them lower grades in comparison to students at other schools even though the students may be performing at the same level, or an even higher one.
Annie Feinroth 15
Music teacher Maddox helps backup vocalists in Rock n Roll prepare for opening night of the annual show.
Rock n Roll is a big deal in the Sherwood community. A really big deal. For six performances over two weekends, audiences will fill the Ertzman Theatre to witness the forty-third year of a Sherwood tradition. More than 200 students auditioned to score a spot on the cast this year. The long process of creating a show requires strong vocalists for the lead roles. The number of underclassmen ready for the slot as a soloist is very limited and selective. I was so shocked [to get a leading singing role] that I started jumping all over the place and people started to look at me, but I did not care. I was so happy that I got a group, especially with two of my best friends, said sophomore Meredith McDonald. Along with McDonald, 11 other underclassmen, two of which are boys, were honored with the great opportunity of being a soloist. Sophomores Sonia Anger and Amelia Agranovich also were both surprised after learning that they were given solo performances in Rock n Roll. I was completely taken by surprise when I found out I did I couldnt believe that I got a solo or a group, said Agranovich. All three girls participate in outside voice lessons; however, that did not stop them from joining music classes in school as well. I am currently in show choir [it] is tons of fun and
Jack Armstrong 15
Sophomores Sara Cassereto, Grace Kennedy, and Amelia Agranovich rehearse I Love You So in preparation for opening night on March 7, 2014. also pretty chill, said McDonald. their cool, whether it is in front Show Choir is one of the various of a friend or thousands of peomusic classes taught by Bill Ev- ple. For first-time Rock n Roll ans, who is the Rock n Roll di- soloists such as Agranovich, this rector. is her first big production, but she It is one thing to be a part of has participated in other singing such a wonderful, exciting pro- shows as a child. Its always duction, but there is also a lot the first time thats the worst. My competition, Anger remarked. mind goes blank except for the During auditions, everyone is on words of the song. But after that, his or her own and the pressure to Im not really scared anymore, do well can be intense. Once the said Agranovich. roles are cast, performers must This is not Angers first prolearn their songs. This is when the duction; she participated in Rock newbies must first prove them- n Roll last year as well as in selves to the other students par- school musicals. Even with exticipating in the show, especially perience, I am terrified to go on those who were eager to obtain a stage. I always worry about messlead role. However, everyone is ing up, doing badly, and disapvery supportive of all performers pointing everyone, she admitted. in order to boost their confidence Whether an underclassmen when singing in front of others. or a senior, each performer solo I definitely do get stage ing in Rock n Roll must overfright; it is actually a little em- come the pressure and nerves barrassing my hand [starts] to of singing in front of thousands. shake uncontrollably, said Mc- The first-time soloists are eagerly Donald. determined to break out of their All singers struggle to keep shell and expose their musical talent.
Front House Speakers- loud speakers placed in the front of the stage and perform ers used to amplify sound to the audienc e.
ced on stage to Stage monitors- speakers pla wing them to amplify sound to performers, allo als. hear other instruments and voc
Subwoofers- a type of speaker used to reproduce low frequency sound, giving more strength to the bass frequencies.
stacking techVertical Line Array- a speaker throughout an nique used to project audio akers pointaudience by stacking several spe that sound ed at different angles to ensure travels in all directions. Reverb- an effect placed on an audio track that creates an random ech o-like effect, slowly decaying over time.
by Marie Moeller 15
One of the most pivotal aspects of any stage production is the set. With the ability to articulate a mood and atmosphere that engages the audience as well as portrays the show as a whole, Courtney Miller Bellairs, the set designer and painting crew director, faced the challenge of making a creative and thoughtful set that revealed this years Rock n Roll theme: Friendship Train. Bellairs, who is a 1987 Sherwood student and former Rock n Roll dancer and vocalist, combined her skills as an architect and artist in her second year of designing Rock n Roll sets. Bellairs sought to adapt the song, Friendship Train by Gladys Night and the Pips, the basis of the theme, into a visual representation through its lyrics. The song is about peace, justice, love, getting along. How do you draw that? Bellairs asked herself in the early stages of generating ideas for the set. For the answer, Bellairs consulted a vintage book of 70s patterns and designs that inspired most of the artwork seen on stage.
Courtney Miller Bellairs works on the vertical panels (top left) with the help of volunteer Theresa Mezebish (bottom right). The set features crazy wallpaper designs (bottom left) and the Friendship Train (top right). Much of the infrastructure of the set has remained the same, once again including vertical flats and the same riser layout. However, an innovative design in addition to a couple special features have helped pull the piece together for an entirely new and unique look. It is as if you are looking out a big window to see a train just outside, explained Bellairs. The middle of the set is a series of over the top 70s living rooms. You are in the living rooms with your friends hangin out or in a night club with this luxurious crazy wallpaper and you look out your window to see the train going by The designs of the wallpaper mimic a tunnel on the left and indicate that the train is traveling into nature on the right. The train, a more abstract version of a retro trolley, rests behind the highest platform where backup vocalists sing. A light
box underneath brings the train to life, presenting the illusion of a train either speeding through the station or merely floating on the platform. The retro, psychedelic color scheme and patterns featured on the vertical flats extend onto the platforms. Two of the vertical flats stand in front of the curtains which depict 70s-inspired faces in black and white with a bold pop of color, juxtaposing with the rest of the set while still providing an inquisitive piece to draw upon before the curtains open to reveal the crazy and fun set. While there were plans to paint the stage with this years Rock n Roll logo of a colorful peace sign, this was not possible due to time constraints. I like giving people something they have to think a little about They may not understand the big window idea but I think they will enjoy the playfulness of the living rooms and color schemes in any case, shared Bellairs. The whole thing needs to work together to inspire and to make an environment right for the performers and the music being represented.
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Bridget Cook 14
Bridget Cook
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The WarriorFeatures
6
March 7, 2014
Dino Zagami
by Samantha Schwartz 14
Even if you do not know Dino personally, youve heard of him. How could you not? Senior Dino Zagami is known for his many talents and leadership roles. He is SGA president, MC at pep rallies and that voice heard over the PA system with a special announcement as 2:10 nears. He is a driving force behind the school yearbook, making a lot of determinations of what memories of the school year will be recorded for posterity. He even finds the energy to run on the track team on top of his many other responsibilities. The Warrior takes a look into a typical day in the life of Zagami. 7:20-10:53: Morning classes consist of two periods in yearbook, one in AP BC Calculus, and a period of SGA full of planning and prep. A lot of people think SGA is a super chill class where we do nothing but most days we are working really hard to make events like pep rallies and Mr. Sherwood happen. There is a lot of work behind the scenes that most people dont understand, Zagami explained. He spends lunch catching up on homework or following up on SGA responsibilities. Many days he finds himself back in the yearbook office. I, along with [fellow Editors-in-Chief] Melissa Zamora, Colleen ONeill and Kristen Lauda, take the yearbook from ideas in June to a physical book in May. The amount of
graphic by Jack Armstrong 15
Zagamis extracurriculars include being one of the four editor-in-chiefs of the yearbook (top left), a member of the school bocce ball team (bottom left) as well as the SGA president of the school (right). work that goes into the yearbook is enormous, said Zagami. 11:36-2:10: Afternoon classes are a continuation of his demanding workload; AP Psychology, AP English Literature, and AP Environmental Science. 2:30-3:30: Now that school is over, the work still isnt. An hour is now spent coaching the bocce ball team that finished its season with a 2-3 record. I first got involved in bocce ball when Mrs. McKeldin asked me to help out back in sophomore year I absolutely fell in love with the corollary program, made some great friends, and the rest is history, said Zagami. 3:30-5:00: No rest for the weary; Zagami participates in a strenuous workout running track. He runs distance and has participated in track his entire high school career. 5:30-7:30: Zagami concludes the day spending two hours at his paid job of tutoring kindergarteners through twelfth graders. Two days a week I run a program called Drop In and another day I do private tutoring in math. Drop In is homework help on any subject, explained Zagami. 8:00-12:00/1:00: This time is spent getting ready for the next day with homework and studying before eventually passing out. Zagami is a role model for how to squeeze the most out of ones time in high school Im crazy busy, he said. I think my only regret in high school is that I wish I could have spent more time with my friends. Hopefully, as a second semester senior I can do more fun and social things as the year winds down. But at the end of the day, Im really satisfied with the choices Ive made and love everything that I do.
The WarriorFeatures
March 7, 2014
Students Bring Smiles to Community Trendy New App Tracks by Annie Feinroth 15 Student Sleeping Patterns
The Teen Angel Project (TAP), is a non-profit, charitable program that aims to bring joy to the community through music and dance. Consisting of 50 high school and middle school students, eight of whom attend Sherwood, they have performed more than 2,000 service hours in just one year. The group has performed for organizations such as Make A Wish Foundation and Autism Speaks, in addition to venues such as the Walter Reed Army Medical Center and local hospitals and nursing homes. TAP has musical directors, publicists, a board of parents and its own website, www.teenangelproject.com. We do our best [to perform] for people who might not get [to see] performances [of this caliber], said junior Sophie Mezebish, one of the Angels. In addition to Mezebish, the other Sherwood TAP members include juniors Gianna Bartolini, Will Goniprow, Rachel Hahn, Alex Hanson, Caitlin Romeo and senior Chase Frederick. Many of the students have been dancing, singing or performing for years and are involved in school plays and RocknRoll. Recently, a group of singers from TAP was featured on an episode of FOX 5 Morning News. We could see ourselves on the moni-
by Ankur Kayastha 15
Get into bed. Sleep, AKA blackout. Wake up. Go to school. This was my and other high school students sleeping routine every night before school. There is no doubt that high schoolers are on a delayed schedule and are completely sleep deprived, but we never knew how much until a new smartphone app hit the stores entitled Sleep Cycle. This new app was introduced to me and others through an AP Psychology class taught by Christine McKeldin. The psych class was immersed in an altered states of consciousness unit, Sleep cycle data includes sleep where sleep was a major factor, quality and a movement graph. and clearly a relevant topic of discussion. Many students added ity in a percentage, the amount of their two cents about the deprived time spent sleeping (or laying in sleeping patterns that most of bed), and more. Not to mention, them suffer from, indicating that the app comes with some pretty they receive three to four hours of nice and soothing alarms that are sleep each night, and they claim more appealing than the dreaded never hitting deep sleep. McK- default one we all know and hate. eldin concluded by sharing an Genius, right? But is it actuapp that she had recently down- ally practical, and does it actuloaded that ally work? tracked her The first thing I wake up I say yes to sleep progthree. In to is a sleep chart indicating all ress. the informat I down- that I get as much sleep as a ics section loaded and sleep-deprived teenager. Its of the app, checked out it describes the app and not lying. the stages found it in- ~Junior Ali Waseem of the sleep teresting to such as REM see how my sleep patterns dif- (Rapid-Eye Movement) sleep and fered on a nightly basis ... I always non-REM sleep. According to find it fascinating that we spend many critics, the app is legitimate so much time thinking about and as well. Clearly, the app is not chasing sleeping while knowing 100-percent precise and accurate, little about it, said McKeldin. but it is a cornerstone to an actual To utilize the app, you must sleep analysis that would occur at place the phone on the corner of sleep centers. It is as close as you the bed completely flat and lev- can get with just a smartphone. el. The app itself analyzes body The app is used by many, and movement and motion through it is improving with every update. the use of the phones acceler- Get this; it can supposedly even ometer to determine the stage of measure your heart rate. You do sleep that you are in. The less this as soon as you wake up by movement occurring at a certain placing your finger on your campoint of time within the sleep, era and flash (the flash stays on), the deeper sleep you are in. The and it detects the color changes apps main purpose is an alarm within your finger to predict your feature, which allows you to set heartbeat. Legitimate? You be the an interval time of waking up. judge. For right now, many stuWithin this interval, the app will dents are buying in. choose the point at which you are I look forward to going to in your lightest form of sleep, so bed, and turning on Sleep Cycle is that you can wake up without the the last thing I do. The first thing grogginess or the crankiness. It I wake up to is a sleep chart indiprovides you with sleep statistics cating that I get as much sleep as including a time graph of the stag- a sleep-deprived teenager. Its not es of your sleep, your sleep qual- lying, said junior Ali Waseem.
Marie Moeller 15
(From left) Juniors Rachel Hahn, Alex Hanson, Sophie Mezebish and Gianna Bartolini are all Sherwood students who participate in TAP. tor it was really cool to [represent the mission], Hahn said. The group is the work of Francesca Winch, founder of the organization, who was also featured on the FOX 5 show. Winch visualized kids singing for people who wanted to hear them, but did not have the opportunity. The mix of high school, middle school and one elementary school student collectively bring joy and happiness to everyone they can. I believe in its mission to go and perform for people who need to be cheered up, said Hahn. The students in TAP get the opportunity to see first-hand what their performances can do for people who rarely have anything to smile about. We were able to put smiles on peoples faces that were sick and couldnt leave and peoples families were crying it was nice to make people smile, said Romeo. Romeo is excited about TAPs next event on April 5 at the Olney Theatre. We are going to be putting on an entire showcase so other people can go and raise money for Best Buddies, Romeo said. She explained how they have combined parts from past performances for this big performance in April. From what Romeo said, this performance will be huge.
Steffani Carrera 14
Students attend presentation about cyber-safety and security that includes representatives and students from other countries. of this generation. Though there were some slight technical difficulties in the beginning, the event ran smoothly and students were able to ask their own questions to experts in the field. Its really interesting to learn more about cyber security because its a big part of our future, commented senior Hannah Engle. There is information not every students knows, like the different types of security threats and the differences between them. Due to the success of this teleconference, club sponsor Nicole Glover hopes to host more of these events in the future.
The WarriorFeatures
8
by Ryan Deal 16
The future of how people watch television as we know it is quickly approaching an impasse. Broadcast television and its original programming has been a mainstay in the common American household for decades, but an opponent is coming which could rattle programming for the future. Netflix, a revolutionary website which streams around 2,000 different TV series, along with nearly 10,000 movies, has taken the television-watching world by the lack of commercials and the storm since its streaming services short length of time it takes to emergence in 2011. watch the next episode. The number of Netflix sub- Part of what makes Netflix scribers has grown considerably so enjoyable is the short times bein the past three years. Audiences tween episodes, said senior Sara used to have to wait every week for Zarny. their new favorite show to come This feature results in impreson. Now, with a simple click of the sive spurts of binge-watching in a mouse or tap of an iPad, an entire short period of time. I have seen series can be watched in a matter an entire season of 24 in just over of days. This constant watching of a day, said sophomore Tyler Bera show in a short period of time is nstein. commonly called binge-watch- Why should network TV ing. be afraid of this binge-watching The number of binge-watch- trend? Well, for starters, Netflix ers is expanding at a rapid rate costs only $8 a month, a reasonand Netflix is the primary source ably low price considering the of it. The Instant Queue on Netflix popularity of the product. Secis home to a vast array of shows. ondly, Netflix has been skyrockThe most attractive part for view- eting in value over the past year. ers, however, is the viewing expe- Stock share prices have grown rience. Viewers are attracted to more than 300 percent from the
March 7, 2014
The WarriorHumor
March 7, 2014
Techniques for Catching the Students Appearance Allusive Lucky Leprechaun Deemed a Disruption
by Cal Wilson 14
Everyone knows that St. Patricks Day is a leprechauns favorite time of year. Its their time to run around, throw four leaf-clover seeds and pinch people who are not wearing green. Playful and fun as they are, they refuse to let anyone get close to them. Dont let that deter you from trying; there still are a few ways to catch a leprechaun. Leprechauns will not just let you walk right up and talk to them. The best way to get them is to lure them into a wellplanned leprechaun trap, but first, one must learn the pleasures and hatreds of leprechauns. Start with a common-known fact: leprechauns love green. Leprechauns cannot fight their urge to look at anything colored green. However, one fact many are unaware of is that leprechauns hate orange. They despise the fruit, color, and juice-with or without pulp. In fact, leprechauns hate orange so much that in their society oranges are outlawed as the fruit of the devil. When planning a leprechaun trap, color it green and make sure there is no orange around. The organization Finding Leprechauns for Orphaned People (FLOP) discovered last Tuesday in ground-breaking research that Leprechauns love Irish rock and roll. Specifically, they love Dropkick Murphys. Something about the dirty, gritty vocals and fast paced fiddles reminds them of their home country. Leaving out a large pint of ale with Dropkick Murphys heavy accordion bass music in the background will surely attract all the local leprechauns. It is said that female leprechauns do not exist, but they are just the most elusive of all. Because they are left alone at home while their male companions go out and cause mischief, lonely leprechaun girls are often left feeling unsatisfied. Buying a box of Lucky Charms and cutting Lucky the Leprechaun out for use as a lure is very effective because leprechaunettes find the Lucky Charms Leprechaun to be very attractive (just make sure er was suspended recently for disrupting class constantly. In Lancasters fourth period, teacher Nancy Plywood told him repeatedly to stop his face from being so annoying. After the third warning, she sent him to the principals office where he continued, in an anonymous administrators words, to be ugly. The Lancaster family, and more specifically attorney Douglas Lancaster, tried to sue orthodontist Phillip Zagoni after Zagoni installed a new experimental apparatus on Lancasters teeth. The contraption is designed to improve the structure of the upper and lower front teeth by constant movement and UV light. Unlike the traditional practice of a bar connected to the teeth through brackets glued to the front of each tooth, the new device includes a special type of silly band. The bands hold one micro-UV light and two motors that spin counter-weights. The bands are
used to correct Lancasters jaw by Chase Wilson 17 while the UV light causes a chem Sophomore Will Lancast- ical reaction in the gums. The two
motors constant motion supposedly decreases the time which is needed to correct ones teeth. Zagoni has a patent pending on the so-called Thooth apparatus. The new system is supposed to closely resemble the traditional braces, said Susan Lancaster. Thats what Dr. Zagoni told me at the first consultation. Zagoni vaguely described the design and failed to mention the bands, lights or motors. The case is supposed to go to trial April 13. The Lancaster family is suing for $2,000 for emotional pain and suffering and are requesting a more attractive version installed at no cost to them. Lancaster is extremely beautiful on the inside, thats all that matters, but for-real he was ugly, said senior Jacky Horian. Lancasters removal from classes is to continue until a more attractive version of the device is invented. Until then, Lancaster will be home-schooled.
jaggedsmile.wordpress.com
No leprechaun has been photograohed, but shown above is one of the few sketches by someone lucky enough to have seen one. to throw out the Lucky Charms cereal because leprechauns find it too commercialized and insulting). Another way to attract the green gremlins is to lure them into a trap which they despise. Leprechauns have a true rivalry against the Easter Bunny (something to do with him crushing a four-leaf clover with one of his Easter eggs back in the 60s). Leaving a brightly colored egg or two out for the local leprechaun to smash is a great way to catch him in a rage. To further antagonize him, leaving a few marshmallow Peeps around the Easter eggs is a sure bait. But lastly, if you do not want to go through all this trouble of studying leprechauns, you can always just do the old follow the rainbow to a leprechauns pot of gold. This is easier than making the leprechaun come to you, but once you get to the pot of gold it is pretty rare to catch the leprechaun. They tend to enjoy hiding and surprising the lonely adventurer before running off with the gold. Those that successfully capture leprechauns usually experience a short period of luck before the leprechaun manages to escape, usually leaving the captor with a series of bite marks in sensitive places.
Forever Alone?
Find your purfect match
CatPeopleMeet.com
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The animals have run out of space and need a new home. To accommodate an ever growing stray animal population, Montgomery County has built a new state of the art facility in Derwood to house the
animals and replace an almost 40-year-old aging animal shelter in Rockville. The ribbon-cutting ceremony took place March 1.
The new Montgomery animal shelter was built in part, because of the previous lack of adequate space to quarantine sick animals separately from stray animals. The Montgomery County Police Department Animal Services
Division will oversee operations at the Derwood facility, and, according to recent article in the Washington Post, the change in management is viewed as a way to improve practices and services. The new Muncaster Mill Road shelter at 49,160 square feet will be three times the size of the old building and will not only house animals but also serve as a public adoption center and community education resource for animal-care issues. The new facility will provide increasing opportunities for teens to volunteer. Students who volunteer at the new animal shelter will get student service learning hours. They will have to generally work for eight hours for six months, but for students the schedule is more flexible, said Taleah Parker, the Volunteer Coordinator. Teenagers between 13-17 will be able to help out in groups. A teenager under 18 will need a written permission slip from parents and will have to be supervised. Minors wont handle animals. Younger groups will have limitations on what they can do to help out. But there are still plenty of opportunities to volunteer including some enrichment with the animals like chew toys, and for cats a sock-full of catnip, to help relieve the stress of the animals to make them feel more at home until they are adopted, explained Community Outreach Coordinator Katherine Venzono. Animals accepted at the new facility range from house pets to reptiles, and even exotic animals. The animal shelter will respond to any call. We have a barn that we are quite proud of, said Venzono. According to the website of the Montgomery County Division of Building Design and Construction, Environmental design features of the facility include use of a vegetated roof over the adoption areas, water efficient plumbing fixtures, energy efficient building envelope and HVAC design, and use of recycled and locally manufactured materials.
Blackfish is a controversial documentary that was broadcasted in October on CNN. Since then, the film has reignited debate over animal captivity and the morality of SeaWorlds treatment of orcas. Blackfish focuses on the story of Tilikum, a performing orca at SeaWorld that killed several trainers while in captivity. The documentary is mostly composed of interviews with former SeaWorld trainers and footage of killer whale interactions to explore the ways in which SeaWorlds mistreatment of the whales may negatively impact their well-being and cause their aggression in captivity. Immediately following the summer release of Blackfish in theaters, SeaWorld described the documentary as shamefully dishonest, deliberately misleading and scientifically inaccurate. The company then seemingly fell silent in hopes that the controversy would fade. However, as popularity of the film grew, SeaWorld could not avoid acknowledging the response it provoked. Responding to online petitions from fans, several entertainers scheduled to perform at SeaWorld theme parks, including the Barenaked Ladies, Willie Nelson and the Beach Boys, canceled their shows. Southwest Airlines, a longtime partner of SeaWorld, also responded to online customer petitions. Although they decided to continue the partnership, representatives of the airline stated that they are engaged with SeaWorld related to the recent concerns being raised. Protests against SeaWorld have taken place at the Macys Thanksgiving Day Parade in November and the Tournament of Roses Parade on New Years Day, where 19 people were arrested. The company has purchased full-page ads in newspapers to refute the claims made by the film, promoted ads on Twitter and created a webpage dedicated to demonstrating that the information presented in Blackfish is false. Beginning in early February, SeaWorld began individually tweeting users who mentioned the documentary, directing them to the new webpage. In addition, it is believed that SeaWorld employees intentionally skewed the results of a poll posted by Orlando Business Journal that asked, Has CNNs Blackfish documentary changed your perception of SeaWorld? The poll reported that over 90 percent of the respondents said no. Suspicious of the results, they looked into it and found that over half of the votes came from a SeaWorld IP address. The directors of Blackfish have repeatedly invited SeaWorld to debate issues on animal captivity in a public forum; however, SeaWorld has refused to directly engage with the film in any public way.
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March 7, 2014
Staff Editorial:
In Our Opinion
n which parents ca to t n te ex n a e Is ther child? cial support to a n a n fi ch u m o to give
outside of college and to find a job that pays well enough that he or she can support themselves. This adjustment period generally should last no longer than a year, considering the weekly salary of a college graduate is double that of someone with only a high school diploma. As for graduate school, since it is a choice and not a prerequisite for most to land a good job, students should acquire more responsibility and pay it through student loans. But to lower the interest rates considerable, the parents should co-sign the loan because that student has proven their seriousness to get into graduate school and has willingness to continue his/her education. Parents responsibility to support their children financially does not include an obligation to pay for luxury items like cars, apartments (that are more costly than dorms), semesters abroad, etc. Since the parents have lifted the load of college tuition, the non-essentials should be paid for by the student. Occasional help should be permitted to keep kids on their feet, but if it becomes a habit, its only enabling reliance on parents. If one expects parents to financially contribute to their future in such a great amount, the child should take advantage of their sacrifice and put in as much effort in their education to make their parents investment worth it. This effort doesnt just begin in college either; it should be consistent throughout high school. And to ease the financial strain on parents, the students should actively search for financial aid, like scholarships, and work a part-time job in high school and college. Its impossible to function in the real world if one never learns how to become independent and self-sufficient.
the
ublished seven times a year, The Warrior serves as Sherwood High Schools premier news source. Over the years, it has received numerous state and national honors. With a staff of 55 students and one advisor, The Warrior keeps the Sherwood community apprised of local and national events. All opinion 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.
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Staff
Print Layout and Production Directors .......................... Marie Moeller 15 Michael Natelli 14 News Editors ......................................................... Steffani Carrera 14 Betselot Wondimu 15 Rock N Roll Editor ................................... Whitney Marie Halaby 14 Victoria Florian 14 Features Editors .................................................... Mary Macrae 14 Humor Editor .......................................................... Hunter Moore 15 Spotlight Editor .................................................. Mandy Stussman 14 Opinions Editors ................................................ Emma Hierholzer 15 Cal Wilson 14 Wondering Warrior Editor............................. Samantha Schwartz 16 Kenel 14 Entertainment Editors ................................................ Jenni Katie Mercogliano 14 Sports Editors ............................................................. Joey Lavoie 14 Kyle Melnick 14 Online Online Managing Editor ............................................. Ashley Yen 14 Online Content Editor ............................................. Brian Hughes 15 Online Page Editors....................................................... Ryan Deal 16 Catherine Jou 15 Alec Perez 14 Will Van Gelder 16 Content and Copy Managing Content and Copy Director ....................... Joy Zhang 14 Content and Copy Editors ................................... Meagan Barrett 15 Michael Crooks 14 Tom Lee 14 Managing Photo Editors ......................................... Bridget Cook 14 Taylor Fernandes 14 Photographer ......................................................... Jack Armstrong 15 Haley Whitt 15 Kelsey Morrison 14 Cartoonist ............................................................ Pollster ................................................................ Sammie Spillman 16 Morning Announcements Script Editor .................. Stacey Wells 15 Business and Publicity Directors ............................ Lucy Hurlbut 14 Sean Kang 14 Staff Writers Ketki Chauhan 16 Leo Corman 15 Lauren Cosca 15 Madison Dymond 16 Dean Emerson 14 Becky Ewing 14 Julia Gajewski-Nemes 15 Emily Gilburt 16 Kaleigh Homer 15 Emma Izzo 15 Ankur Kayastha 15 Joolyun Kim 14 Connor Loughran 15 Stephen Luckey 15 Ashley Nnabue 16 Allie Pino 15 Dalton Sanchez 15 Olivia Shoftdand 14 Zach Stubblefield 15 Chase Wilson 17 Kira Yates 16
The WarriorOpinions
March 7, 2014
13
PRO
Rule Helps Students To Keep Trying
by Hunter Moore 15
In 2006, MCPS made the wise decision of implementing the 50-percent rule. The rule prohibits teachers from giving low, failing grades. Although some contend that the rule allows students to slack off, the 50-percent rule actually encourages students to keep trying and not give up on a course in which they struggle. Student athletes benefit the most, because the rule makes it easier for them to balance school and sport while remaining eligible. Assuming student-athletes do their homework for a completion grade worth 10 percent of the overall grade, the 50-percent rule nearly guarantees a passing grade for the students who give an effort. The 50-percent rule not only can help keep students eligible, but also helps those talented athletes to have a better GPA as college coaches consider them for their teams. Without the 50-percent rule, students could not study (as most occasionally do), fail a test and receive such a low grade that it brings them down an entire letter grade in a class. Tanking on a 100-point summative grade could be detrimental to a grade, but the 50-percent rule takes away some of the sting to the overall grade. The 50-percent rule is not just for those students struggling to pass a class. Students who consistently earn As and Bs on assignments should not see all their hard work ruined by one terrible grade. Emergencies and illnesses do occur. There are also times when students have so much to do that they cannot give their usual effort to everything. Students overall grade should reflect the totality of their effort in a class, and the 50-percent rule helps ensure this is the case. Those against the 50-percent rule may argue that students will abuse the rule and use it as a free pass to slack off. While some students may take advantage of the rule, these same students likely arent even bothering to complete their homework or turn in assignments. In other words, they are going to fail the course whether there is a 50-percent rule or not. Instead of the 50-percent rule being a way to slack off, it gives students more incentive to do well. Due to the fact that students may get away with a few poor grades here and there, they will study for their tests knowing that if they did not understand the material, it is not the end of the world in their high school lives.
CON
Rule Rewards Students for Slacking
by Whitney-Marie Halaby 14
In 2001, President George W. Bush established the No Child Left Behind (NCLB) Act, which aimed to make it possible for every child to graduate high school. States and districts were expected to make adjustments to reflect the goals of the federal law. In response to NCLB requirements, MCPS established the 50-percent rule, in which students automatically receive at least a 50 percent if they show any effort to pass an assignment. Therefore, a student who actually earned 20/100 on a test, for example, would be bumped up to a 50/100. The rationale for the 50-percent rule is to ensure that one or more awful grades do not ruin a students overall grade in class and lead the student to quit the class. However, in reality, the rule permits students to pick and choose when they want to try on assignments, quizzes and tests. There have been many times over a students high school career where he/she has a mentality of, I dont care, Ill just get my 50 percent because I really dont feel like studying. The MCPS policy provides a means for students to work the system rather than actually obtain knowledge. Granted, getting a 50 percent on the majority of assignments still will result in a horrible grade in a class, but there is still a hugely important distinction between passing and not passing a class. The 50-percent rule permits students to pass classesand eventually graduatewhen they did not earn it. It also sends the wrong message about how the real world works. College professors will not give half-credit just for trying. Bosses certainly will not give credit to an employee for doing very poorly. Just the opposite; the person will be fired. As I reflect back on my high school career, I have to admit that it is hard to imagine making it without the 50-percent rule. But I now realize something else: the rule has taught me how to manipulate the system to get something I didnt really earn. Too often, I have tried to work out the minimum grade that I can receive while doing the least amount of work possible rather than actually studying for the class. This mentality is something that I cannot take with me into the real world. MCPS cannot be blamed for my slacking off, but the 50-percent rule contributed to it by making it easier to work the system and pass by doing the very minimum in my high school courses.
Cal Wilson 14
taining emotional health, counselors at the high school level primarily focus on students academic achievements and goals for the future. Furthermore, students do not always feel comfortable reaching out to their school counselors or do not always realize that they are suffering from depression. There needs to be more involvement in the classroom to recognize depression and respond appropriately to students who
may be struggling with it. As of today, there is very minimal training for teachers on identifying depression in students. Many teachers may not realize that depression affects as much as a quarter of their students and could be the reason behind a fluctuation in grades in some of them. The lack of motivation and focus that depression causes usually leads to lower test scores and the inability
The WarriorOpinions
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March 7, 2014
by Zach Stubblefield 15
on the use of the N-word would affect black players more than any other group of players in the NFL. After all they are the ones who use the word the most. Isnt it ironic that a penalty that is intended to stop racism against a group of players is going to end up only hurting the group of players it is trying to protect? I am not advocating the use of the word in every situation. I am just saying we as a society must acknowledge that the N-word does not just have negative connotations anymore. Through hip-hop and popular culture, many young people have grown up hearing the N-word used as a synonym for friend rather than hearing it as a symbol of hate. A penalty in the NFL on the use of the word would not work for this very reason; it would be impossible to know with what purpose the players are saying the word. If anything, penalizing the use of the word is a step back. It gives the N-word more legitimacy as a racist term. The NFL should not prohibit players use of the N-word, because banning the use of the word will slow society from moving on from the past.
Morbid Minutes
by Bridget Cook 14
This year, the cancellation of the biennial Every 15 Minutes program has disappointed many. But when considered, what is it that people wish they could experience? Viewing a horrific car accident outside of their school? Seeing the mangled, bloody faces of their peers who are victims in the accident? Watching someone in a Halloween costume proudly stroll the halls, claiming certain people for death? Every 15 minutes felt much more like a theatrical horror production than an event made to raise awareness for such a grave issue. While its beneficial to warn students of the consequences of drunk driving, how will crudely painting their faces with white makeup and forbidding them to talk for the rest of the day accomplish that? When I experienced the program, I saw far too much stifled laughter as kids were removed from class and given a zombie makeover. Far too many people were eager to see the gory re-enactment of the accident in the parking lot. Drunk driving awareness is definitely critical for high-schoolers, but bloody dramatizations of tragic deaths should by no means be something that students excitedly anticipate.
The WarriorOpinions
March 7, 2014
15
- Immigration Most politicians agree that the United States has a broken immigration system, but have failed to come together to improve it hopefully until now. To begin the New Year, Congress unveiled a list of principles on the topic of immigration reform, which supports tighter border security and a new process of granting legal status for undocumented immigrants and Dreamers (undocumented immigrants brought here by their parents at a very young age).
YES
NO
cartoon by Emma Hierholzer 15
POSITIVE
A Story of Affluenza
by Stacey Wells 15
This past December, a teenage boy in Texas drove drunk and murdered four people. Instead of serving the recommended 20 years in prison, he got off easy with only 10 years of probation. The defense argued that the boy suffered from affluenza, which is a psychological problem that can affect privileged children. In other words, this teenager received barely any punishment for his irresponsible behavior due to the fact that he was raised by a rich family. First off, the disease afflueneza isnt even recognized by the American Psychiatric Association. This affliction is based off the belief that children who grow up in a privileged environment have delusional ideas about what is allowed. However, wealthy parents are not the only factors that influence a childs development. Both media and friends affect individuals, meaning that privileged children should still be able to decipher right from wrong even if their parents spoil them rotten. Teachers also influence and discipline students, which means that even the most privileged individuals would receive punishment and understand the effects of their actions. If affluenza was an actual psychological disorder, does that mean that there should there be a disease invented for under-privileged children as well? If a child grows up in an under-privileged environment and never received any guidance from his parents, does he also get to skirt jail time for not knowing whats right? Or would only wealthy teens get to avoid jail? If a rich teenager can skirt 20 years of jail time because of a made-up disease, then others may use similar excuses to avoid prison. Someone could easily claim that their glasses led them to be bullied, which led them to kill someone. The only factor that should make a difference in court is the crime in question, not an individuals wealth, race, gender or past experiences. The teenager in Texas committed a horrendous crime and he should face the full sentence, no matter what richchild disease he may have. Furthermore, America has a wonderful thing called rule of law. This means that all citizens must follow the same set of rules regardless of who they are. Way back when rule of law did not exist, members of royalty, religious leaders and rich citizens were able to avoid the law while the poor would get heavily punished for minor crimes. Citizens were not seen as equals; if one individual had an abundance of money then he was able to avoid punishment. Nowadays, in the United States, everyone is supposed to be punished equally, but that is not the reality. Wealthier citizens are able to buy better lawyers, while the very poor can only accept whoever is assigned to them. Even if rule of law is not always perfect, it is still the basis of equality in America and should be an ideal that America tries to achieve. The judges sentencing of the teen to probation suggests that some people have the right to get away with murder. Being privileged should not grant an individual the right to skirt jail time. If this psychological problem is eventually accepted as truth by the courts, then our court system will only become more unequal in its application of justice.
NEGATIVE
Which should be the more important priority: enacting stricter border security or a pathway to citizenship?
SECURITY
*132 students surveyed
39% 61%
PATHWAY
Would you support or oppose a program giving undocumented immigrants amnesty (a pardon for wrongdoing) or a pathway to citizenship if they meet certain requirements such as paying a fine, working, joining the military, pursuing an education, supporting themselves independently, etc.?
Absolutely not. Thats like giving a convicted robber bonus cash. They broke our laws. Why should we reward them for it? If they seek citizenship properly, then I would not mind. - Jessica Fishbein 15
I would support this idea, mostly because it feels like we are trying too hard to push immigrants away. They may not be legal, but they are here for a better life, so the U.S. needs to be willing to create better programs, in terms of helping immigrants out more than they do now. - Ben Cooper 16
D O O RW E H S D E K S A R I R E O H I T R R T A U O W B E A S TH T N E S D E U N T O S H P T R SMA
How much would you have to be paid to go one month without using your cellphone at all?
29% 0-100$
21% 500-1000$
27% 100-500$
What do you think about parents using smart phones to track their kids?
Good for parents knowing where their children are but bad for kids because they cant lie. - Rachel Seney 16 Kids have no privacy but they are safer. -Erica Wragg 17
Its not really cool to not trust your children. -Matthew Kim 17
The WarriorEntertainment
March 7, 2014
Shows + Shindigs
17
March 28 Nas
Kennedy Center, DC
9:30 Club, DC
graphic by Katie Mercogliano 14
eldoradobar.com
With hits like Crank and Hit Me, popular duo, Zeds Dead, has risen to fame with EDMs surgence. have a nice beat that makes me want to jump up from my seat and dance, said sophomore Duy-An Trieu. Not only students who listen to dubstep, but even those that dont have strong opinions about it. Sophomore Tom Baker describes dubstep as an avant-garde EDM genre that combines elements from 2-step, British garage and dub. He does not like dubstep because it does not have large emphasis on highly proficient guitar work. He does, however, believe it can still be considered music If such abstract and experimental genres such as drone, noise, dark ambient and grind-core are considered music, then dubstep is no different. Baker also believes that dubstep will always have a following, though it may not last in the
mainstream. Just as grunge and nu-metal had their time in the spotlight among teens but slowly lost popularity, but still a lot of teens enjoy said genres, Baker said. People of all different ages and personalities like dubstep, which is why it just might last in the mainstream. An attraction of dubstep is that it emits energy and power that makes listeners feel like they can do and be anything. Dubstep is not symmetrical; it is not properly in order. It gives you this release that all of us desire, and is fun, full of energy, and is a music genre like no other, said sophomore Krissy Hernandez. The term dubstep is often misused. Pop songs that have been remixed and have had abstract sounds added to them are sometimes called dubstep. People often mix up dubstep with the other types of electronic music, such as house, techno, trap or trance. The sounds in dubstep are quite unique and easily distinguishable to avid listeners, but not to an eletronic music newbie. For mostly all music genres that become mainstream there is a backlash. When rock became mainstream, there was a backlash. Even now that pop, rap and country are mainstream, there is a backlash. With dubstep becoming mainstream, theres already signs of negative reaction to the controversial style of music. It is difficult to predict dubsteps lasting power with such mixed reviews, but for now its popularity is still hanging on.
The WarriorEntertainment
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Avett Brothers Take Coffee House Feel to Big Stadium
by Michael Natelli 14
Scott Galupos concert review in the Washington Post this week argued that the Avett Brothers are trying to straddle two very different worlds. He suggests that they employed labor-saving techniques of a duo working on the cheap, and that their lack of using their large video board backdrop and pizazz was a disappointment. Perhaps Galupo thought he was supposed to be seeing Savoy or Avicii that night? Last Friday at the Patriot Center in Fairfax, Virginia, the Avett Brothers accomplished what only a few musical acts seem capable of in modern-day performing: a combination of humility, genuine talent, and entertainment that was drawn more from the music than it was from any fancy dancers, lights or video backdrops. One might relate the show to a coffeehouse performance with 12,000 of your closest friends. There were no obscure outfits, twerking or untalented lip-syncers, and if thats what Galupo was expecting, then I can see why hed be disappointed. But what the crowd was actually in for was a remarkable display of musical ability, wheth-
March 7, 2014
er it was Scott Avett simultaneously singing, playing banjo and beating a bass drum or cellist Joe Kwon moving across the stage while, at the same time, playing some of the fastest cello riffs Ive ever encountered. But Galupo goes on, and suggests that after giving a hint of what theyre becoming capable of with two up-tempo rock songs, the band, essentially, disappointed by turning back to sleepy ballads. Sleepy? Looks like the Posts reviewer was up past his bed time. Galupo mustve been the only one at Patriot Center last weekend that didnt seem to quite get (or quite appreciate) what the Avett Brothers are all about. While many, from Madonna to Lady Gaga to Bruno Mars and so forth, have made their names on being stylistic and lavish performers, its not about that with the Avett Brothers; for them, its about taking the personal stories of hardship and triumph that their die-hard fans know so well and putting them to music. The way the audience sang along like a church choir as Scott Avett stood alone under a spotlight and sang Murder in the City is proof that their simplistic methods are a success.
allchristiannews.com
most part visually represent the biblical figures most people are familiar with. More than that, though, Son of God ponders many of Christs teachings and pure way of life. Viewers get Jesus (Portuguese model Diogo Morgado) reciting some of his more famous sayings, usually within a brief, recognizable biblical scene. Since the Nativity portion of his life was skipped in this version, Jesus appears on screen fully formed. The disciples move as a clear unit in Son of God, speaking when biblical text requires them to. Viewers still get a sense of these historical figures, such as St. John (Sebastian Knapp), who gives brief pieces of narration to string
the story together. Like many Christ stories, this one clearly prefers to focus on Jesus torture and crucifixion over his teachings and ideas. Christs sacrifice is central to many Christian churches, so it tends to be the root of most filmed version of the life of Jesus. Son of God ultimately is more about depicting the source of peoples faith than about the filmmaking. And while some additional footage was shot by other directors to turn the original miniseries chapters into a whole feature film, the primary objective of the film is to provide a representation of the life of Jesus for those who believe him to be the savior of mankind.
After the tragic end of Freaks and Geeks, Judd Apatow (The 40 Year Old Virgin, Knocked Up, Pineapple Express) lost another nearly perfect show after the first season as well. Undeclared stars Jay Baruchel as a lost young adult desperately trying to become self-aware in college. The show also stars Seth Rogen, and creates that balance of humor and substance Apatow has in his shows and films. Whether its due to poor time slots or just realizing its brilliance a little too late, this show was also canceled after the first season. While not quite as amazing as Freaks and Geeks, Undeclared is definitely worth watching. No, not the Jonah Hill and Channing Tatum movie, but the classic 80s TV series. This was Johnny Depps big break, and its a must-watch. Depp plays an undercover cop in high school like the premise of the movie, but unlike the film, the series covers issues like alcoholism, homophobia, AIDS, hate crimes, child abuse, drug abuse and sexual promiscuity. This show could have easily been a campy-after school special if not for Depps commanding presence.
Undeclared (Netflix)
This quirky, family-centered comedy follows the Moone Family, focusing in on the youngest in the family, 12-year-old Martin, and his imaginary friend, Sen Murphy, played by hilarious actor, Chris ODowd. Set in rural Ireland in the late eighties/early nineties, it combines surrealism, comedy and family. It has six episodes per season and its third season is being written currently.
The WarriorSports
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March 7, 2014
including Sams own father, do not. Sams father said he didnt want his grandkids to grow up in that environment. While most aspiring NFL players are drafted based on their playing skills and NFL readiness, NFL owners and coaches will have to consider much more when drafting Sam, including how well he will fit in the locker room and if his being gay could be a distraction to players. Sam will also be facing much more media attention and scrutiny than other potential draftees, which he will have to learn how to ignore. Sam surely knows that he will not be accepted by every player and fan, but he has already shown the courage to overcome these obstacles by coming out to the general public before Mays NFL Draft. While hes already said he doesnt want to get too involved in gay rights debates, Sam will certainly become an inspiration to aspiring gay athletes everywhere.
Softball
-Next Games: Northern; March 15 at 12 pm at Northern Wootton; March 21 at 3:30 pm at Sherwood -Key News: The Warriors are ranked 37th nationally coming into the season, after winning back-to-back 4A State Championships. The team hopes to continue its 42-game win streak behind AllMet players senior Meggie Dejter and junior Nicole Stockinger.
The WarriorSports
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March 7, 2014
In the 2011 yearbook, five freshman athletes were profiled for their athletic excellence when they all made varsity softball in the spring.
ow N
I cant wait to go to states, if we make it! I played outside school [before]. -Rae Harrison Its exciting. [Before this year] I played with the Olney Cougars for five or six years. -Addie Armbruster
Im kind of excited to play with all the upperclassmen and learn from them. I wasnt expecting to make varisty, but it was a suprise. Im happy about it. -Lisa Intoccia Its a good experience to work with the upperclassmen. They work you harder and you have to impress them. They push you to do your best. -Kasey Rosen Its an honor, but its intimidating knowing that youre supposed to be the really good freshman, and everyone has expectations that you cant always fill. -Meggie Dejter
Jack Armstrong 15
From left: Seniors Addie Armbruster, Lisa Intoccia, Rae Harrison, Meggie Dejter and Kasey Rosen were a part of the 2012 softball state championship team after going undefeated during the regular season. year which made the decision to leave the team a little easier. The injury also forced her to end her volleyball career after discovering the sport the same way Rosen did after entering Sherwood. Armbruster looks to continue to control the outfield after three years of playing under long time coach Pat Flanagan. Last season she started in left field, but will look to move around more this season with new coach Ashley Barber-Strunk at the helm. Armbruster was a part of an Olney Cougars travel softball team with several current players including seniors Dejter, Marybeth Bidwick, Rachel Ames and juniors Julie Swarr and Nicole Stockinger. Since weve played together for so long were extremely comfortable around each other and we really mesh well as a team, said Armbruster. In more of a game sense we know everyones habits and strengths so we know how to motivate each other and know their abilities. Harrison has a very different view of the field, playing catcher and having the role as field captain from behind the plate. After playing behind the plate with Class of 2012 graduate Kristen Holonich her freshman year, Harrison took over the starting role and never looked back. In her two years behind the plate, she has primarily caught for two players, Kailyn Cohen (13) and Dejter. This experience has allowed for her to grow very familiar with her pitchers, both as fellow teammates and friends. Catching for Meggie and Kailyn over the years since we started softball has helped, said Harrison. Theyre both talented pitchers and batters have trouble catching up to them. Meg and I like to go through every pitch and talk about where we want it to go and when to throw it which we say helps us get in sync for games. Dejter is going to continue to play a key role on the mound after committing to play Division I college softball at Towson University. Dejter will have a lot pressure on her shoulders to perform for the now two-time undefeated Warriors, after having one of the most incredible seasons in Sherwood history. Playing all four years with Rae as my catcher has been great; these first three years weve really gotten comfortable together because weve been through all the big games and even the bad games, said Dejter. We have that experience thats been building up these past four years which is good because now we know kind of what to expect.
Jack Armstrong 15
Seniors Ty Reeves, Giovanni Smith and junior Hunter Moore battle for a rebound with a Paint Branch player during the Warriors 53-47 win.