Академический Документы
Профессиональный Документы
Культура Документы
Diversity Week
By: Maddy Herzog
Walking through the halls of Thailand, and India. Tuesday, Urban The Raider Times
Watertown High School, you are likely
to see an abundance of diversity. Not
Improv, a group of actors from Jamaica
Plain, came and performed several
2008-2009 Staff List
only does Watertown, Massachusetts skits for classes concerning racism and
hold the second largest Armenian other forms of prejudice. Wednesday Editor-in-Chief: Maddy Herzog
population in the United States, it is featured a film festival during sixth Copy Editor: Andrew Grant
also home to many other ethnicities, period. Finally, on Friday, there was
including Greek, Italian, Middle Eastern, multiple displays and activities set up News Opinion
and Asian. Although our citizens of in the cafeteria for all three lunches.
Editor: Keith Singh Editor: Julia Brennan
different backgrounds generally have Students curiously approached at their
amiable relationships within the town, own leisure to participate in activities Kalli Fabrikarakis
at the high school level many students and sample food. Additionally, each Maddy Herzog Sports
are uneducated about other groups. day of the week there was a raffle which Nick Lappen Editor: Kelsey Predergast
Four years ago, the Watertown Youth involved answering trivia questions Taylor Connors
Coalition (WYC) and Peer Leaders about other cultures; for instance, “How
Feature
started Diversity Day to try and fix that many times a day do Shi’ites pray?” The
problem. Expanding on its mission to daily prizes included gift cards to stores Editor: Chloe Anderson Photo Editor: Chloe Anderson
spread diversity and tolerance, Diversity such as Dunkin Donuts, Old Navy, and Shelby Austin-Manning
Day evolved into a Diversity Week for Game Stop, and gift baskets. Liz Russo Freelance
the first time this year. Members of WYC and Peer Clara Gibbons
“[This week] gives students a Leaders and their supervisor, Becket
Arts & Entertainment Andrew Grant
chance to enjoy food from other countries Rhodes, who also works at Wayside
and kind of open their eyes to the fact Multi Service Center in Watertown, Editor: Jenna Gilreath Rachel Pano
that the American life style isn’t the only were generally pleased with the results Mane Harutyunyan Anthony Smart
way of life,” said Boris Osipov, a senior of this year’s Diversity Week. “I was
at WHS and a member of Peer Leaders. honestly surprised by some people’s
The global-themed week started off enthusiasm,” admitted Boris. “People
slow but picked up pace quickly. On were genuinely interested and it was Advisor: Maurin O’Grady
Monday, April 6th, there was a table and refreshing to see.” Other WHS students
display set up in the main lobby, where who took leadership roles in the The newspaper staff welcomes freelance writers. If you
WYC and Peer Leader members served successful week were Eva Guo, Clara would like to work on The Raider Times, see Ms. O’Grady
food from countries such as Italy, China, Gibbons, and Harrison Ford. in Room 345.
Astronomy Students New Inductees
Go Star Gazing
By: Liz Russo
Welcomed to NHS
By:Jenna Gilreath
One Wednesday night April telescope will not be that bright making On Thursday April 30th As students were inducted into their
30th thirty-seven students showed up at it easier to see the moons surface. The Watertown High’s auditorium held respected societies, the officers of the
Moxley field to observe the stars under students observed the moon’s shadow proud family members and classmates NHS explained what each one was and
clear skies. Mr. Petricone in celebration line where the lit part meets the dark of juniors and seniors who were being what the different aspects of NHS and
of Astronomy week decided it was time side on the moon. inducted and were inducted last year Cum Laude stood for. Mrs. Calleja
for his astronomy class to assemble at Mr. P then tells his students into the National Honor Society (NHS). “thought the officers did a wonderful job
Moxley field to look through the school to gather round to have a look at the The ceremony included words from with their responsibility in the society.”
telescope to see the rings of Saturn, constellations featured in the night’s Mr. Noftsker, current superintendent All students inducted last year
along with the crescent moon, and point clear skies. Mr. P uses a green laser Dr. Heirsche and was led by the NHS returned to welcome the new juniors
out some of the major constellations in pointer that goes on for about a mile; officers Gaby D’Amico, Brian Field, and seniors. Overall, the ceremony
the night sky. most of the students gasped when Faye Hisoler and Andrew Grant. was welcoming and was done very
The students gathered around seeing the laser for it looked like it This year, for National Honor professionally in a way that recognized
8pm just after dark to get the best view could reach the stars. The class pointed Society where students have to obtain a the students for all their hard work. A
of the night sky. Mr. Petricone brought out constellations such as Leo the 3.5 GPA, there were 5 seniors inducted big thank you is deserved for all of the
the school’s telescope and placed it Lion, where Saturn was featured that as well as 34 juniors. Cum Laude, a students and faculty that help make this
in the field for his students to gather night. Also pointed out was the Big society where students have a 4.0 GPA event possible. The National Honor
around. He never knows how many of Dipper, following its two front stars to there were 6 seniors and 16 juniors Society and Cum Laude induction
his students will show up but takes the find the North Star sitting in the night inducted. Mrs. Calleja, our school’s ceremony is one that will hopefully
chance anyways to see who is willing to sky. The Gemini Twins, and the Great faculty advisor for this society has continue for many years to come.
take time to learn more about the stars. Dog Sirius were seen. The class was been running ceremonies and working
“It’s nice of the kids to show up and hoping to see Orion the hunter in the with the students for 2 years now. She
take time out of their schedules,” states sky but it was too low in the horizon along with Gaylene Fantasia from the
Mr. P. and a house was blocking the students Superintendent’s office work very hard
First Mr. Petricone sets up view from the field. The class then to make the ceremony run smoothly.
the telescope so it pointed to the planet pointed out the brightest stars in the sky Mrs. Calleja works with the students
Saturn, known for having the best set of such as, Capella, Arcturus, Castor and to get their applications in, helps get
rings in the Solar System. Each student Pollux, Spica, Betelgeuse, and lastly photographers for the event, music
took a turn to look through the telescope the brightest star in the sky that night, selected, lighting and running the
to see Saturn just as it would look like Sirius. “I go home and think about who rehearsal for the event. Mrs. Fantasia
in magazines and books. Right beside showed up, I give the kids that show up orders the pins for the students, the
Saturn students were able to see one of extra credit, but I don’t tell them that in certificates and she mails out invitations
Saturn’s moons Titan. Titan is a famous class,” he says with a laugh. to the induction ceremony. Without these
moon since it also holds an atmosphere After the students slowly start two, the ceremony would probably be a
much like the Earths. After each student to leave. Some of the students even very difficult task.
has had a chance to look at Saturn and stayed behind to help pack up Mr. P’s Throughout the ceremony,
it’s moon, the telescope is then pointed car. “Arthur Patsios and a couple of students were presented with certificates
to the Earth’s moon. It is the perfect his friends were nice enough to help of membership, pins and a stole which
time to look at the craters on the moons me out with the telescope,” states Mr. they will don at graduation. Senior Gaby A junior NHS member gets in-
surface. The moon is a crescent moon P. Overall the night was a good, fun, D’Amico said that she personally “felt ducted
where only a small part is lit up, this way successful night. Hopefully next years honored to take part in the ceremony.” Photo by: Lifetouch
the light reflecting off the moon into the turn out will be just as enjoyable as this
years.
China stands proud as the from local school districts, 20 seats were day Chinese live,” says
world’s largest country with a rapidly open to Watertown students. Barry.
increasing population of 1.3 billion In a series of 10 days, Watertown Prior to actually
people. With the Great Wall of China students explored and were educated in traveling to China,
being one of the “Seven Wonders of Beijing, Xi’an and Shanghai. Though students were required to
the World,” it’s no surprise that tourism the cost of the trip was expensive, attend classes that gave
is especially high there. The China settling in at about $3,000, sophomore them a brief overview
Pathways Program offers a chance Hannah Barry says “it is completely of Chinese culture
for high school students to immerse worth it. You do so much that the price before actually being
themselves into the fast-paced, exciting you pay for this trip is less than half of in the center of it. Each
lifestyle of China. It unites China’s past, what you would pay if you planned the student was expected to
present and future, offering insight into trip yourself.” The trip involves a lot take at least two classes
its history, art, politics, lifestyle and of sight-seeing, educational benefits with topics ranging from
background. In a crowd of 150 students are also inevitable. Bits and pieces of teenage life, Chinese folk
Chinese history and lore, mandarin, music,
way of life come etc. Although the trip
together through visits features group activities and careful going on the trip are usually motivated
to schools, the Great chaperoning, students also have time by personal interests and aspire to learn
Wall, Olympic Village, go out at night and survey the streets about other countries and the China trip
terra cotta warriors, of China for themselves, benefiting always fulfills. Why China? “Because
pagodas and mosques, from first hand exposure. Even with the it’s a growing world power and their
neighborhoods, additional independence the students culture and history is so ancient and
museums and markets. are given, they are expected to act very interesting,” Barry explains. This
“We did see a lot respectful and follow rules, as usual. To event is run annually during April
of sights, but it was insure safety, check-ins are constant and vacation and from year to year, has been
always explained to us students are required to always carry characterized by words like “awesome,”
why they were relevant their passports on them. “eye-opening” and “memorable.” The
to China’s history. We The trip is another chapter in “best experience of your life” lies
spent a lot of time in the lives of those attending students beneath the layers of ancient history
local areas, learning who always return awed by the and a dominating culture in the heart of
The WPS group in China! about how modern- adventures China has to offer. People China.
Feature
WHS Alum Shares College Experiences
By: Jenna Gilreath
things have changed for graduates of flexible schedule, and more real life Overall, things have changed
Watertown High after graduation I responsibility. Although the economy for Andrew Allegro a lot since his
spoke with Andrew Allegro. Andrew has changed, he says, “Colleges are graduation day in June of 1997. He
was a graduate in 1997 from WHS pretty consistent with enrollment.” The is working full time at the Watertown
and he was also the class president. only thing he thinks has changed is the Boys and Girls Club, where he is known
Through talking with him, I was able to need for SAT scores. When he went to as “Double A” while he is in school for
get a better understanding of just what college, the SAT was heavily weighted his graduate degree. If there was one
life is like for him now. for acceptance. piece of advice that Andrew could give
Andrew went through grades In high school, we have clubs the class of 2009 it would be to “set
K-12 at Watertown Public Schools and and sports to partake in and it is very realistic goals.”
is now going for his graduate degree routine. Although groups of friends It’s had to believe that in 12
at UMASS Boston. Looking back at may split up in college, Andrew still years, we the class of 2009, will be able
graduation, three words that come to finds himself talking with some of to respond to an interview like his about
mind include included “overwhelming,” his best friends he had in high school, our high school careers and the changes
For the seniors of 2009, our “fast,” and “fun”! His favorite class was today. If there was one thing he wishes we will face. Andrew also wanted to
life as we know it is about to change. A Calculus with Ms. Manning and he also he could have done differently when it relay the message that now we are going
new unknown world is headed our way, had a few things to say when it came to came to the college process, he said it into college, and getting ready to turn 18
full of classes, loans, jobs and decisions. the college process along with growing would be trying to get more time with if we are not already, it is time to grow
At this time 12 years ago, the members up after graduation. his guidance counselor. There are so up and work hard.
of the class of 1997 were feeling the According to Andrew, with many colleges out there, he wish he had
same way. In order to find out how college comes freedom, a more looked more.
A Graduation Comic by
Gabe Navarro
Summer Jobs
art. Financially, the HOB in Cambridge include the Dropkick Murphys, New
was taken care of by Paul Schaffer, Found Glory, Lady Gaga, The B-52s,
Aerosmith and Jim Belushi to name a Lilly Allen and Katy Perry to name a
few. few. The widespread genres of music
By: Kelsey Prendergast Now where Avalon used to be, listed above are only a few of the acts
From the upcoming freshmen equipment, such as art supplies, gimp, the HOB opened its doors early 2009. that management is hoping to bring
to graduating seniors, summer is on the beads, basketballs, soccer balls and kick Offering a restaurant with a “southern- more people into the House of Blues.
mind once nice weather rolls around. balls in order to keep the kids having style cuisine”, a store to buy official From what I can tell, this is probably
With the beach, vacations, flip-flops, fun. Working for the town can also merchandise and a music hall to house going to be one of the busiest places on
pools and ice cream that all come with involve driving around in those yellow many different groups the HOB seems Lansdowne Street for a long time.
the joy of summer, there is also that trucks, painting fire hydrants, putting up
summer job in the back of everyone’s street signs or painting the lines on the
mind. Everyone needs a way to have fields in town.
money all summer to do what he or she However, working for the
wants. Some choose to work at camps recreation usually lands you at Camp
in town so they can have the nights and Pequossette as a counselor, junior
weekends off, while others work at a counselor, or CIT. “I look forward
local bakery, supermarket, restaurant or to going to work everyday. I enjoy
ice cream shop. it so much. There is such a good
“It’s convenient and it’s group of people that work there and
money,” says junior Chloe Anderson we are able to have a lot of fun while
about her job at Ohlins’ Bakery in working. Sometimes the kids can be
Belmont. When asking senior Ryan a pain but I’ve never gone a day of
LaVache about his job at Boston Boxing, work without a smile on my face,” says
he said, “I enjoy it. I don’t mind working sophomore Bianca Jones about her job
3-6 P.M. and I get to sleep late and go out at CampPequossette. Overall, summer
after.” Many high school students work comes with a lot of freedom and a
for the town or recreation, where they relaxing life style. Yet, everyone needs
can work at parks such as Victory Field a little summer job on the side to make Pop star Jesse McCartney performed at the new House of Blues location in
or Arsenal Park. They have all kinds of some money. early 2009 Photo by: Jenna Gilreath
A “Sure To Please” Italian Restaurant
By: Kalli Fabrikarakis, Mane Harutyunyan and Keith Singh
Walking through the seeming too gimmicky, or getting in pasta, bread and butter, selected desserts guarantee satisfaction.
veranda style back entrance, and going the way. It becomes the perfect thing to and tea or coffee. This affordable dinner As if this fine Italian cuisine
through the dimly lit passageway, the look at while waiting for your food. choice proves “big things come in small is not enough to attract its loving
aroma of various seafood and sauces The talented owner/chef of packages.” In fact, the dishes are so customers, all employees at Verona’s
begin to engulf your senses, giving you this fantastic Italian restaurant is Tino entirely filled that finishing your plate is are comforting and dedicated to making
the feeling that you’re close to dining at Farese. Tino’s dedication to the restaurant almost a challenge. each dining experience a memorable
a small Italian seaside villa. This is the and the love for his work shows in the Personal selections one for all. Nothing is better than being
sensation you get when you first enter quality his delicious Italian cuisine. included fried calamari, Caesar salad, greeted and seated by a smiling waitress,
The Verona restaurant, aptly named after Three types of menus (take-out catering, garlic bread, shrimp and mushrooms who is gladly willing to make you feel at
the northern Italian city, this restaurant, function and dinner) exist to provide sautéed in garlic butter over linguine, home, and is ready to take your order. To
near the end of Mount Auburn Street, is customers with a diverse set of options boneless breast of chicken parmigiana all newcomers, the waitresses are very
sure to please. at top convenience. With categories of and homemade fettuccine with marinara informed as to what’s the specialty of the
The first thing you notice as “appetizers and salads,” “ imported and sauce, all of which were nothing day, or what may be a delicious choice
you reach the dining area of Verona’s homemade pasta,” “specialties of the short of perfect. Although everything for a meal. One of the most important
is the fine craftsmanship that embodies house,” “Italian favorites,” “American on the menu exceeds expectations, factors to a successful restaurant is the
the restaurant. From the sky blue ceiling favorites” and “fresh seafood,” dinner recommendations include linguine service, in which Verona’s has most
that gives you the feeling of an open at Verona’s is sure to be a crowd- carbonara, broiled scrod, fisherman’s definitely mastered.
countryside skyline, to the various art pleaser. The anniversary promotional platter and shrimp scampi. To add the Overall a trip to The Verona
pieces on the walls designed to look value is a gift on a silver platter offering icing on the cake, a delicious, hot cup Restaurant is sure to please. With a
like your dining alongside the beaches a complete dinner for two for $15 a of Indian pudding topped with French great atmosphere, amazing food, and
of Italy. One can truly lose their mind person. The dinner includes a soup or vanilla ice cream earned the title of “best friendly service, Verona’s is something
in their settings. Overall the atmosphere salad as an appetizer, any entrée from dessert.” Runner-up desserts strawberry any Watertown local needs to check out
Opinion
really gets your attention, without the entire menu, potato & vegetable or Jell-O and chocolate tapioca will also if they haven’t already.
Lack of Choices
By: Maddy Herzog
Where are the Trees?
By: Nick Lappen
Speech, Debate Team, Model I was proud to display on my transcript Most every student who “traumatizing”.
U.N., Asian Cultural Club, Student was Journalism, a class in its infant attended the JR Lowell School has But what about the notion that
Political Magazine, Student Art years and the only English department fond memories of the three large trees, these trees were rotting and unsafe?
Magazine, Russian Club. These were elective. What’s more, attaining this which stood out front of the school. The “Garbage,” claims Tyler Romanelli.
just several of the rich and diverse one basic and useful class caused trees marked the boundary for students When asked about the possibility of
extracurriculars and electives that another wonderful English elective, playing at recess. “Don’t go past the these trees being dangerous to students
students listed on the Northwestern Creative Writing, to disappear. Most trees,” the lunch ladies used to say. Dillon O’Reilly had only one response:
Class of 2013 online discussion thread. other academic departments have no But now that the trees have “preposterous”. The destruction of the
I can’t even imagine how long their electives at all. What’s more, we are been removed what will students use as trees has done more harm than it has
resumes must’ve been on their college rapidly losing funding for electives. a boundary? The destruction of the trees done good. Leaving students like RJ
application. In comparison, I pictured Some classes like electronic music have has left many Lowell school alumni Sheehan feeling “distraught,” while
my meager, one-page list. Aside from already disappeared and rumors have upset. Taylor Connors described the act others like Mike D’Amico have turned
sports, most of my extracurriculars had been spreading that the entire Drama as “despicable.” While fellow Lowell to anger, describing his feelings as
been scrounged up from various out of program may vanish soon. school alumni Chris McDermott was “outraged.”
school communities. Another high school aspect “flabbergasted.” Students have long Overall, the community seems
In a time when the college that we miss out on at Watertown High held the tradition of painting the trees mildly upset over the removal of the
application process is more cut throat than School is a diverse club scene. Again, when they graduate, and now that trees. It is this writer’s opinion that
ever, Watertown High School students we have several successful clubs, tradition will die. the least they could do is maybe plant
are at a disadvantage. After grades and including a renowned Robotics Club, The death of the trees has some bushes or something. Possibly
test scores, admission officers carefully but due to our small size and lack of been a major source of outcry from a shrubbery or two. Nothing big, just
scan lists of extracurriculars and look at funding, after school selection is very the Lowell school community. Julia something to sort of say, “Hey guys, our
class choices. How are our course loads limited. Friends from a nearby high Tolman sees it as a “disgrace”, while bad, we screwed up on this one.” Sort
supposed to stand out among millions school, Buckingham, Browne and Colin Geagan could only describe of like an apology for chopping down
when our electives barely exceed art, Nichols, tell me about the vast array of the horrific destruction of the trees as our childhood.
Is Turf Better?
photography, and foods class. clubs, ranging from Gardening Club to
Francis Parker High School Xtreme Club. Even aside from these
in San Diego, CA, for example, offers humorous, slightly ridiculous clubs,
Shakespeare Seminar, Theater, Theatre we are missing important clubs such as
By: Kelsey Prendergast
Production, Musical Theatre, Directing, Speech or Debate Team or Model U.N.
Stonecarving, Pottery, Motion Media Clubs like these are viewed very highly Does a WHS athlete traveling it comes to the season, you are unable
Art, Java Programming, Global Issues by colleges and provide vital experience to Woburn, Bentley and Lexington in to even use the tricks or skills you were
& Social Justice, Genghis to Godzilla- for students who are interested in certain order to be ready for the next tournament taught because they do not work on
Modern Asian Culture, Speech majors in college or careers in life. game seem fair? Squeezing into two grass!
Communications, Student Government, It is an increased struggle cars in order to be able to use the hour Placing turf at Victory Field
Martial Arts, and Sports Medicine, for us to beat out students from these and a half to two hours alloted on a field would, of course, involve a lot of money,
among many other courses. other, more endowed high schools belonging to another school, just doesn’t time and work from Watertown. Also,
Watertown High School does for precious university acceptances. seem fair. You better hope your coach the teams would have to share the field
offer several great programs such as Although my bitterness is minimal has some great connections in order to amongst themselves. They would have
Childhood Development, Foods and since I was accepted into the college of get you on the turf in these other towns. to schedule games and practices at all
Nutrition, and Media courses in a my choice, I was significantly shocked Yet, your opponent is out there practicing different times so every team would be
beautiful and professional studio, but when I saw the resumes of other future on their own home turf for the three plus able to use to available turf. Yet, there
it certainly does not have something Northwestern students compared to hours they have to work on anything would be lights so some teams would
for everybody. There are hardly any mine. Looking back, it seems like a needed. For Watertown, those measures have night practices. The question is
academic electives. The only elective miracle that admissions officers noticed are taken once tournament rolls around how does Watertown High School get
me at all. in order to come out with the win. a brand new gym? Is money a problem
Having all grass fields is a great with the addition of turf to Watertown’s
disadvantage while playing these turf Victory Field? If Watertown High
teams. In every sport, there are certain School is able to get a new gym, which
skills only used on turf and when you does not affect the basketball team’s
The opinions on this page do not neces- play the teams on their home turf the performance on the court, then why
sarily reflect those of the Raider Times skills are easily used against you. When shouldn’t their teams that have been
staff or its advisor. attending summer camps or playing on playing on grass in a turf-born league
club teams, you will always be playing get the chance to have turf get put in?
on turf so you learn certain tricks and
skills to use on that surface. Yet, when
Tanning Can Cost You More Than Just Money
By: Mane Harutyunyan
Once upon a time, women desire causes women to go to great wasn’t enough, people are beginning to In some cases, tanning
were independent thinkers. Welcome lengths to make themselves feel more get frustrated with the time it takes to becomes an obsession so that women lie
to present day reality where the image confident and the media is silently tan naturally and turning over to tanning in tanning booths as often as their own
of an “ideal” woman peeks through the motivating them. Beauty is tan. Tan indoors. Women dive into tanning beds beds at night. Thousands of people all
tan, heavily-made-up face of another is beauty. Women all over the world unknowingly thinking it is safer than over the United States are routinely going
month’s celebrity adorning the cover are cooking like steaks on a grill to the tan you get from being outdoors. to tanning salons to maintain that “glow”
of Seventeen magazine. Somewhere achieve that seemingly “beautiful, deep, But in fact, the Ultra Violet (UV) lights year round. Some have even taken it a
in history, priorities were cast aside to golden skin tone.” Every day, the world from tanning beds are 2-8 times more step further and installed tanning beds
make room for time spent on beauty and advertises and displays that “perfect” powerful than the rays given off from in their own homes, a process costing
physical appearance. The motto “true girl. The faces change but the message the sun and far more menacing to the around $2-3,000. After a certain point,
beauty is on the inside” has virtually behind it remains the same. Struggling skin. At that close range and with that tanning becomes second nature to
disappeared and Vogue magazine is the to keep up with the latest fads, women much concentrated power, tanning beds women who refuse to believe any harm
new Bible. Among Maybelline’s “Lash are now lining up like mindless penetrate deep into the skin and cause can come to them until it’s already too
Stiletto” mascara, Covergirl’s “Wetslick robots at the doors of tanning salons. damage. Skin burns, rashes, irritation, late to turn back. The term “tanorexia”
Fruit Spritzers” lip gloss and Revlon’s The biggest motivation is personal eye injuries, premature aging and in was coined to characterize those people
“Colorstay” foundation lies a new craze. satisfaction. People want to feel good severe but not uncommon cases, cancer, addicted to tanning salons. Although an
More than 2 million Americans are about themselves. People want to fit are among the effects of tanning. obsession to this extent is rare, it is still
baking in tanning salons every single in. Ironically, a tan signifies a healthy Even with this knowledge, people present and classified alongside eating
day in the United States. body, a promise a lot of people refuse are unwilling to believe they can be disorders and depression as a disease.
As time progresses, women to ignore. But since when did it become affected. To the contrary, not only is the Women nowadays are riding
find themselves conforming to the acceptable to sacrifice well-being for influence of Melanoma (a severe type of in a carriage pulled by the unbearable
pressures of society. There is that little, body image? Looks over health? Matter skin cancer) quickly rising for women standards of society. Every tan Barbie
but inevitable, amount of jealousy and over mind? Your skin is just a vessel for under the age of 40 but skin cancer is and celebrity is a tug towards the wrong
desire in every single woman to be who you are. Since when did that vessel also the most common form of cancer path. Take control of the reins. There’s
physically more attractive than the girl have to be beautiful? with 90% of all these diagnoses being nothing wrong with being the odd one
standing next to her. Amplifying this As if neglecting sun tan lotion traced back to excessive UV exposure. out.
No Dances?
American culture. We are proudly argument to be resolved. However, this
representing Watertown and its history. is simply a matter that has recently been
The Red Raiders mascot has blown way out of proportion.
By: Chloe Anderson been representing our athletic program Watertown Red Raiders
for over fifty years. That is something to athletic teams are courageous fighters,
The biggest dance at the high other things at lower prices holding be proud of, not something to be taken that’s all there is to it. There is no
school has always been the Halloween dances and having a lot of people attend away from us. Watertown High School need for an argument or a change in a
dance. But, why can’t other dances be could help lower these prices. is full of respectable students and tradition that has lasted nearly a half of
just as popular? The winter formal and Other schools are always staff, which is known throughout the a century without any issues. We are
the Spring Fling are always infamous having formal dances and almost all the Middlesex League. We don’t stereotype a very diverse school, understanding
for being cancelled or having a total students attend. Some schools do not or segregate, in fact we are one of that many cultures have sensitivities.
of twenty people there. The Halloween have them in their cafeterias,they rent the more diverse schools; especially Being called the Red Raiders is not
dance is so talked up by upperclassmen function halls. Some of these formal considering our size. There has never something that needs to be changed or
that underclassman also believe it is the dances schools are just as big as prom, been any negative connotation as to altered in any way. The students here
only good dance the high school hosts. they even take limos. Maybe a turn off our mascot here at W.H.S. As long as it at Watertown High need to speak out
If one dance can be good, can’t they to students is the fact that the dance is stays that way, there is no reason why for our traditional mascot, to keep our
all? held in the cafeteria but the school does we shouldn’t be allowed to celebrate school proudly representing what we
There has always been talk not have enough money to rent out a our winnings as the Red Raiders. stand for.
about changing the themes of the winter place especially with the fact that they The color red historically
formal and the spring fling. There had never know how many students will
been talk of a Sadie Hawkins Dance, a actually attend.
Mardi Gras themed dance and any other If people got rid of the
theme. But these themed dances never stereotype that the Halloween dance is
seem to happen. Each grade is supposed the only good dance more people would
to host a dance and the proceeds go to attend. If everyone just decides to attend
the grade. If there is only one dance a the other dances it would be just like
year the money will only go to the senior the Halloween dance only with out the The opinions on this page do not necessarily reflect those
class, leaving the other classes to find costumes. If there was a theme it would of the Raider Times staff or its advisor.
other ways to make money. If students also make it a better time!
want to have activities, class dues and
Who Will Bail Out What Comes Next for
School Systems? a Graduating Senior?
By: Keith Singh By: Jill Brennan
Suppose the government was have a mix of decent desks, and then a As we grow up, our goals Next year, we are going to be
supplying your company with the funds handful of World War era desks that can become more important and our in completely new situations than the
required to run your company, you barely hold up a notebook? It’s because decisions become more crucial for us ones we are in today. Some of us are
would make sure you use that money the school has a sick sense of humor. because they affect our futures more moving away to college, some of us are
to its full use wouldn’t you? Well with They’re trying to go for that “retro” directly. A soccer game that once meant commuting to college and some of us
the current economy a lot of companies appeal, which is going pretty well for everything to you in the third grade are moving on to other opportunities.
actually are in that situation. Those them. We have the books from the 70’s, might not seem so important to you now In order to get the most out of the next
companies though, are under close the chalkboards from the 60’s, and hey, because your priorities have changed. few years, I think it is important that we
scrutiny of the public, media, and close perhaps even the asbestos from the 50’s. However, by now, many seniors have take as many lessons, both the good and
watch from their investors (Uncle Sam). How lucky are we that our school has a decided which college they are going to, the bad, from high school as we can.
So why aren’t public schools more theme? a decision will leave an impact that lasts Sometimes, our opinions were not given
closely watched? Most people don’t Lets go back to recent bad longer than the third grade soccer game the credit that they deserved. Many of
think of their local school system as a spending. Remember how last year did. us have been unhappy with the decisions
company, but with the economy in the all the teachers had those white Each of us gets something that have been made in the last couple
dumps, isn’t regulating education across Macbooks? You notice how gray Dells different out of high school. We meet of years. Learning from them is the best
the nation as important as regulating a have replaced them? Do you know why, new people and learn something we can do.
failing car company? By the looks of because I surely don’t. You know who while we are there, but we also get In the future, our actions will
our school, it becomes rather apparent else doesn’t know, the teachers who a little glimpse of working through stay with us longer than they do now.
that the government really couldn’t use them. Could this possibly be the authoritative systems in order to get Next year, we get to start over with
care less how towns use their investor’s school’s sick sense of humor kicking what we want. Sometimes, it took a people who have not known us as long.
money. Let’s just say if Watertown in again? It must be, because last week little more than a peaceful comment to A bad day in your senior year of high
Public Schools was a car company, we the school let out an email about how make everyone aware of our discontent, school can be easily disregarded because
would be packing our bags and moving we’re dangerously low on paper. The but our opinions were heard through our people know us so well, especially
out of Detroit, or trying to come up school has money to buy completely actions. We all have opinions but it is being in such a small school. But rash
with a future failure plan of partnering new laptops, to replace perfectly fine important for us not to act rashly. We actions in our first semester of college
up with some European car company laptops, but can’t drive down to Staples are becoming more unwilling to change will reflect directly on us because people
(sorry Chrysler but you know it’s going to buy paper. Who could have seen this our opinions, and that is all a part of do not know us as well. Students, like
to happen). coming though? Who would know a becoming adults. Junior Stephanie Barker, agree that there
The school system has been public school would need paper? The There are a lot of things that has been a recent increase in disciplinary
rather tactical with the metaphorical administration certainly didn’t, but then we can take away from school. Some problems and that people should work to
demise of our car company. It has not again why blame them, they were far are good and some are bad. We have the stop them.
only destroyed itself through recent bad too busy trying to improve the budget, happy memories from the last four years When the administration made
spending, but also through the atrophy apparently there are more useless things of our friends. We also have all of the a decision that we did not like, we went
of previous spending habits. We’ll start the school can buy. work that we have done over the years. on strike to get our point across. In the
with the recent bad spending. If you’ve So what can get the school out In the end, we realize that where we future, going on strike could lose you
been in a gym class at the WHS this of this mess? They could try and stop are going in life depends greatly on the your job or get you in trouble with your
year, you’ll notice the shiny new floor rampant spending, and put that money work that we do today. Fortunately, we school because there are other people
the school has put under your feet. How to better use. The school though will have spent four years with our favorite out there willing to put up with things.
amazing is that? You can almost see the probably not do that, and instead try teachers and our favorite classes that we The future is unknown so
reflection of your pathetic attempts to to cut back on more things we already look forward to going to each day. we cannot predict exactly what will
fight over the seven deflated basketballs lack. They have already started with “The teachers at WHS have happen. We cannot know how we
that are supposed to hold over your ever- mailing notifications, which isn’t that really prepared us for college,” Faye would act in a situation until we are in
growing gym class. It’s no secret that the bad. What’s next though? Cutting Hisoler, a member of the Class of ’09, that circumstance. But we can take what
school doesn’t have the most up to date teachers, and making classes bigger said. In addition to their subject they we know from high school and prevent
sports equipment, but why does it insist than they already are? The economy have also taught us “techniques to ourselves from making any mistakes
on shoving horrible fitness equipment will eventually get better, as history succeed”. again.
down your throat? Many of the Fitness shows, but will our school system be
Centers cardio machines don’t work, able to bounce back? Or will it continue
yet the school keeps buying random to make bad business decisions, ending
junk to put down in that basement room. up like the banks and car companies
Apparently quantity does mean more of today? Only time will tell, but if the The opinions on this page do not necessarily re-
than quality to our school. school does see darker days, there might
flect those of the Raider Times staff or its advisor.
Let’s jump to the other not be a bailout.
spectrum now for a moment. Have
you ever wondered why some rooms
Sports
By: Maddy Herzog
Will Coach Mastro Leave Girls Track?
If you attend Watertown High sweat, and tears on the track and field
School, you are bound to interact with each meet, each season, each year. “I
David Mastro at some point. Whether wear my emotions on my sleeve during
it’s sitting, slightly intimidated in his track meets,” he said. He has even
freshman U.S. history class, or being earned renown at many other Middlesex
screamed at as you sprint around a track, League schools as the not-so-tall coach
the lovable, 5’2 character has left his who jumps up and down screaming
mark. However, Mastro may soon be during meets. “Everyone definitely
absent from his most common habitat, knows when to move their arms more,”
Victory Field. He’s currently debating Senior Nick Lappen said, alluding to
whether or not to leave his position of one of Mastro’s more frequent cries.
girl’s track coach. “I’m not your typical track coach who
For the past nine years, Mastro just sits there quietly,” Mastro states.
has coached girl’s track and during the “I have emotion and passion, and
first six of those years he also coached that helps energize the runners, in my
boy’s and girl’s soccer. “It’s a lot,” opinion.” As a result though, Mastro
Mastro said. For the entire time he has goes home physically and emotionally
been teaching he has also been a coach; drained after a meet.
he’s never had a break. From November The 2009 Girls Track Team. Coach Mastro is front and center. Mastro hopes to have a final
to June his schedule is virtually booked decision by the spring track banquet.
Photo by: Lifetouch
and by Sunday, his one day off, he’s The track department will lose much
exhausted. “I feel like I run and run and of its character without Mastro, that’s
run…” he said, no pun intended. One of back on the talented bunch of runners he to my coaching.” He also admitted that for sure. “Will it lower my overall
his main concerns is having more time has been working with and that he could many in the community have told him stress? Yes, probably,” said Mastro
to spend with his wife, who has been work with in the future. “I love all these he’d be a “fool to leave” his coaching about leaving his coaching position. It
putting up with his hectic scholastic and kids tremendously,” Mastro expressed. job. will probably also give his voice some
athletic schedule for thirteen years now. “They are the hardest working people It is possible, though, that rest and relaxation it hasn’t had for 13
Don’t get him wrong though, it I know and they’re busy with other Mastro is worn out. There is no one years.
will not be an easy decision to turn his obligations, too. They really respond who can deny that he leaves his blood,
Feature Male and Female Athletes
Taylor Connors Faye Hisoler
All-Around Athlete A Champion on the Court
By: Jenna Gilreath
By: Kelsey Prendergast
season. All the playing paid off, with For some people, balancing
the field hockey team bringing back two extracurricular activities and school
banners: Middlesex League Champs can be a difficult task. Faye Hisoler,
and North Champs falling one game however, is able to balance playing
short of the State Championship. tennis, staying involved in clubs, and
“She’s not only a hard worker keeping her high rank in the senior class,
but also a very good asset to our team all at the same time. This is why Faye
and is one of the many reasons for has been selected as one of the Feature
our success,” says sophomore Jessica Athletes of the issue.
Doggett. Without Connors in net, the Faye started playing tennis
team could not have gotten as far as five years ago. One of her friends
they did. Connors herself has been played and she decided to try it out. She
named Middlesex League all-star, Best realized she loved the sport and ended
of 60, and 2008 Tribune Player of the up trying out at the high school level.
Year. “I love playing sports with Taylor, With a busy schedule that includes
she’s so dedicated and dependable. Not meetings for Invisible Children and
only that, it is so fun to be on a team National Honor Society and rehearsing
Faye at one of her tennis
with her. When I would play defense, for musicals, Faye thinks that tennis is
matches.
I loved hearing her crack jokes in the a “stress reliever.” “I don’t feel that it
background. She always puts a smile takes time away from my studies”, says Photo by: Lifetouch
Taylor Connors with the
jave at a track meet. on my face,” states sophomore Bianca Faye whose favorite class is Chemistry
Jones. with Ms. Kraemer. She also adds, “the with her. “I love having someone I
Photo by: Lifetouch
She is a leader on the court skills I learn from tennis help me do can share wins with and learn through
as well, where she has led the girls’ well in school.” experiencing tough losses.”
basketball team to the tournament. Faye’s favorite memory during We at the Raider Times wish
Senior Taylor Connors is During spring track, she’s known as tennis was her first win. Along with Faye luck with her tennis season this
a powerhouse on the track, field, the top thrower of the girls’ outdoor winning, Faye also loves interacting year!
and court. Her amazing goalie skills track team. On the track team she is the with her teammates. As a tennis player
helped carry the field hockey team to one to beat at the javelin. She throws a she usually sticks to doubles; she loves
the Division 2 state semi-final game. remarkable 112 feet, even though she having another person on the court
Facing a triple overtime game, she only needs 87 feet to qualify for states.
stayed strong in the net to come out Connors has previously placed in the
with a breathtaking win in a game early
on in the tournament. Connors defeated
state meet and moved on to All-States.
At track practice, you can often see
Herling Romero
the odds in the tournament, with almost
every game coming down to overtime
Connors out-throwing the guys on the
boys’ track team and sometimes taking a
Keeping the Tennis Team Alive
and playing with injuries, as well. That break from throwing and picking up the
kind of skill doesn’t come without a lot baton to run the anchor in the girls’ 4 by By: Kelsey Prendergast
of hard work and dedication. Connors 1 relay. She is a true, year-round athlete
has participated in a New England with incredible athletic ability in every enjoys being involved in as many sports
premier showcase where she was named sport. Connors hopes to participate in as possible.
an all-star and practiced alongside the either track or field hockey next year in Herling is attending Boston
field hockey team throughout the off- college. College in the fall, which proves his
outstanding ability to balance his school
Jeff Gonzalez
load and participate in varsity sports.
Herling is looking forward to playing
sports in college whether it be golf
Backbone for the Baseball Team or tennis; he uses sports as a way to
release how competitive he is. Herling
describes his favorite memory from
Watertown High tennis being, “At one
By: Maddy Herzog of our matches Gerry Mee got stung by
You would never guess that a bee and fell to the ground screaming,
senior, varsity baseball tri-captain Jeff “I’m Hit!” in the middle of a point.”
Gonzalez didn’t even knew the rules Tennis can be an enjoyable sport but
of baseball until he was 11. He played can also involve some hard work along
his first game with his cousins and after Herling during a tennis match at with time management skills. Herling
sending the ball out of sight, Jeff knew Victory Field. describes his experience of managing a
he liked baseball. “It’s my kind of sport, competitive school load and sports by
Photo by: Lifetouch saying, “ I am pretty laid back and don’t
you don’t have to run that much and you
can be lazy sometimes even,” Jeff joked. stress that much so it is pretty easy for
Since that day, baseball has been his me.” Herling explains that the tennis
life and “just being in the presence of a team looks pretty good this year with
Senior Herling Romero has the help of a new teammate, Pablo who,
baseball diamond makes [his] day.” He Jeff Gonzalez as catcher during his been playing tennis since his freshmen “makes our singles more consistent.”.
values time spent with his teammates, baseball game.
including his co-captains, senior Justin year at Watertown High. His father’s Also, he noted that they only lost one
Photo by: Lifetouch friend got him interested during the senior so they are looking like a strong
Forman and junior Tim Barbra, and
summer entering high school. He team.
loves shouting things at them when
also plays golf for the high school and
they’re up at bat. Jeff’s passion for and team. Aside from sports, Jeff enjoys
the game especially shined through his attending church and participating in
Congratulations
freshman and sophomore years when he activities with his congregation. One of
was named Team MVP twice in a row. his favorite quotes is, “There are three
Jeff also plays soccer, his first things in my life which I really love
sport, in the fall. “I have played soccer God, my family, and baseball. The only
since I could walk because my dad
Graduates!
problem- once baseball season starts
taught me how to play, but it never sunk I change the order around a bit.” His
in as my favorite sport like baseball did,” dedication to Raider athletics and his
he explained. Nevertheless, he still activities out of school is what earned
enjoys it and brings much to the field Jeff the title of Feature Athlete.