December 2009

GOT MILK (AND COOKIES)?

An Interview with Santa Claus on pages 8 and 9

SPORTS NFL PLAYOFF PREDICTIONS p 16 EDITORIAL GRADING SYSTEM p 4 OPINION OBAMA YEAR IN REVIEW p 5

Massapequa High School

DECEMBER 2009

mhsthechief@yahoo.com

Vol. LVIII - ISSUE 2

Massapequa Lights up for the Holiday Season

BY TARA GRUBER STAFF WRITER

Dazzling Christmas lights, majestic snowflakes and decorations galore coat the Village of Massapequa Park as the holiday season begins. With hot chocolate in hand, attendees of the Village of Massapequa Park’s annual tree and menorah lighting walked around wearing their colorful winter hats and coats, enjoying the holiday celebration on Saturday, November 28.

Loaded with holiday fun, this spectacular event really brings out the holiday spirit in the residents of Massapequa Park. Close to 2000-3000 people attend the lighting every year, coming together as one to celebrate the holidays.

This event occurs every year to kickoff the holiday season and for the community to come together and acknowledge celebration, according to Peggy Caltabiano, the Village Administrator/Clerk of Massapequa Park. Many families of Massapequa and Massapequa Park love to take part in this holiday affair.

The Tree and Menorah Lighting is held every year on Park Boulevard and Front Street on the Saturday after Thanksgiving at 4:00 pm. The tree lighting is a free event open to all families and all ages and is packed with all sorts of fun. The lighting includes entertainment and lots of holiday music and activities, as well as holiday characters such as Frosty, Rudolph and of course Santa Claus walking around spreading holiday cheer. This year’s line up of activities included holiday music provided by the Village A Cappella caroling along

Park Boulevard, a Massapequa High in town is probably one of my favorite School Chiefette and cheerleader per- parts about cheerleading. Everyone in formance, an American Sign Language town is always in a good mood lighting performance done by students from and excited to see Santa. “My” favorite Massapequa High School (a new addi- part about the routine is when the cheertion to this year’s line up), and of course leaders connect to make the outline of the most exciting part: the count down a tree, and pass the light-up star to the top. Deanna Miro, to the tree and an MHS cheerleader, menorah lightsaid. “This was my ing. third year doing the T h e tree lighting, and I Massapequa love doing it every Chiefettes’ and year.” cheerleaders’ New this year performances was the signing of really brought “The Star Spangled out the holiday Banner,” perforomed spirit in many

by MHS American attendees of Sign Language stuthe lighting. dents. Their perforThere was a mance caught the huge crowd eye of the audience surrounding and added a bit of a the Chiefettes unique twist to the and cheerleadusual lighting. ers during their To decide performances.

ALYSSA YURASITS//THE CHIEF who will light the tree If you did not get in front of Carvel in time for their performance, all and/or the menorah, according to Mrs. you could see from outside the crowd Caltabiano a contest is held among the were the small children sitting upon families of Massapequa Park. They must their fathers’ shoulders, trying to get try to guess what the actual numbers of a better look at the girls’ routine. The lights are on the tree. The two winning cheerleaders and Chiefettes both did families are selected to light the Menoa great job in their Santa Claus and elf rah and Christmas tree.

This year, the tree actually themed costumes, and by the sound of the crowd singing and clapping along, failed to light up, leaving everyone in it is pretty clear that they really enjoyed confusion. After a redo countdown, the tree finally revealed its green, pink, it too.

“The tree lighting ceremony red, and blue gleaming lights, causing

Local Drug Bust Just Steps Away from MHS

BY CHRIS RIOTTA NEWS EDITOR

Just steps away from Massapequa High School, a doctor was arrested for allegedly selling prescription medication to people as young as eighteen, and possibly even younger. Heaps of evidence is rapidly mounting against Dr. Saji Francis who, after a half-year undercover investigation by the Nassau County Police, has been arrested for the MHS can be seen in the illegal distribu- background from the front of tion of highly Dr. Francis’ offfice. addictive medications, such as oxycodone.

Francis was a “backup doctor” for Massapequa Public Schools and, if needed, would have been called to assist any situations regarding a health emergency. His number was provided to the Main Campus, yet according to school officials he never performed any medical procedures on a student or received

any money from the district.

Police Commissioner Lawrence Mulvey said in a press conference, “He [Francis] has disgraced the reputation of the medical profession. He has damaged our community’s greatest asset, our young people, and he will pay for that with the loss of his greatest asset, his freedom.”

With no medical examinations or diagnosis whatsoever, “patients” were handed medications with deadly side effects.

PAIGE SNIDER//THE CHIEF “Heroin users couldn’t get heroin in Massapequa because the heat was too hot and the supply was dry,” Mulvey explained.

“Detectives heard this reference to ‘Dr. Frank’ and ... it was obvious kids were channeling him to get them through hard times.”

The practice is literally the school’s neighbor, both sharing a lake and an overlooking sidewalk. Although it is feared that MHS students have pur-

chased prescription medication from the doctor, no evidence has been presented to police that it was sold to anybody under the age of eighteen.

“Steps were already in place to ensure drugs couldn’t get into the school,” MHS Principal Dr. Grossane said. “I can’t exactly say what we will be doing, but security is going to be upped in light of the events.” Mr. Abrescia, Dean of Students, doesn’t believe any interaction between Francis and the students of MHS occurred.

The investigation of the deat of Natalie Ciappa, Plainedge High School student who lived in Massapequa and overdosed on heroin, might be linked to the doctor’s practice of selling to a younger population. Wiretaps have been recorded with students who were under investigation mentioning the name “Dr. Frank,” Saji Francis’ pseudonym in the drug community.

MHS students who are currently looking into the college world are becoming conscious of their school’s reputation. “Great, just another reason for my application to get denied; that’s just what I need,” one junior said after seeing a local

everyone’s face to shed a warm smile in return.

Among the many festivities that took place at the lighting, there were several changes and new additions to this year’s program. There were several new awesome lights and new MCs from Massapequa High School who had auditioned for the position. The new MCs were Mike Esposito, Kyle Mahoney, and Amanda Kugler, all of whom did a wonderful job informing the massive amount of people attending about where everything would be and where performances would be held, as well as helping them get into a jollier mood.

This annual tradition has been going on since World War II. It was begun by Mrs. Colleran (Colleran Park is named after her son) who thought it would be a pleasant idea to honor those serving their country, and ever since then the lighting has been continued.

Besides the chilly weather, everyone at the tree and menorah lighting seemed to have a great time. This ongoing tradition is a joy-filled experience to share with friends and loved ones.

Make sure you mark your calendar for next year’s lighting!

news station reporting right outside of the main campus.

Erin Geier, Liberal citizen journalist and MHS student, furiously blogged in outrage of the events. “It’s quite fitting, really. Over half the kids in our town agree with all of Rush Limbaugh’s opinions, so they might as well take on his addictions, too.”

“Massapequa’s supposed to be one of the safest towns,” Jake Dunn, junior, remarked. “I’m amazed something like this could happen so close to school.”

Just a few years ago, Massapequa was put in a similar situation when News 12 did a report right in front of MHS suggesting it was the haven for heroin usage. Rob Hoell, WPIX 11 news reporter, faced a more complicated issue of reporting the news in front of the Main Campus right after news of the doctor’s arrest spread.

“Security told me I wasn’t allowed to report right in front of the school, but I knew my rights- sidewalks are public property,” he said at a workshop for student journalists at Hofstra University on Friday, December 11, continued on page 14

NEWS

DECEMBER 2009

Boys Locker-Room Redo

to memorize a new combination, but fortunately now nobody needs his own The boys’ locker room has been lock. Also, if the locker is accidentally redone and it looks great! The lockers closed, you need to put the combinahave more space and the room has new tion in again to reopen it. The way you benches that weren’t there previously. reset the locker is slightly different than They are also painted Massapequa col- the usual lockers (you turn it to the left ors (blue, gold, and white), making the rather than right). Although there are a locker room more efficient and aestheti- few problems with the new locker room, cally pleasing. they are only minor changes that can Now for a tenth grader, these easily be solved with time According to locker rooms are a huge step above senior Mike Morgan, “The new locker the ones we had last year at Ames, but room is certainly an improvement from according to John Piropato, the Direc- the older one. The only flaw is that the tor of Physical Education, Health, and new lock system is a little confusing, Athletics, the new Main Campus locker but you get used to it.”

All in all, the new locker room can be considered a success.

The girls, on the other hand, disagree. “It’s pretty annoying, since we can’t fit anything in [our] tiny lockers…” sophomore Nicole McGrath said. Despite the girls’ disagreement, Mr. Piropato said, “The girls’ locker room does not need to be redone at this time.” Although he also said it might be when necessary.

The new lockers are also far more aesthetically pleasing, as well as TYLER NOVET//THE CHIEF more efficient. Mr. Pirosystem is a big improvement pato said, “The custofrom that of last year. “The lockers were dians painted the locker room school in need of repair. They were antiquated, colors. We have benches that we didn’t rusty, and dangerous,” he said. “It came have previously. It’s safer; we don’t out just the way we planned. The new have book bags lying around.” He said lockers have space, [and] should fit that above all, there have been far fewer book bags…this couldn’t have been reports of missing and stolen property accomplished without the support of because items of value are being locked Central Administration and the Board up. of Education.”

Overall, the project was a sucThe new lockers do present a cess. The room is safer, more efficient, few problems, like a lock already built and nicer looking than it ever has into the locker, which requires the boys been.

BY TYLER NOVET FEATURES EDITOR

THE CHIEF 2

Musical Gets A New Director

BY GRACE RIVERA

and has had the opportunity to work with Music Theater International, The For the past two years Mrs. New York Theater Festival, and even Greene and Mrs. Dempsey, our beloved Disney! Although Mr. Harrington only chorus teachers, have teamed up to di- had the chance to see part of the MHS rect the musicals at Massapequa High performance of The Sound of Music last School. Students, parents, and teachers year, he was impressed by the students’ agreed that they were smash hits, and dedication, and wishes to continue the that the young performers acted like pro- tradition of high quality musicals. fessionals. This year, however, the dyAs the new director, Mr. Harnamic duo chose to take a break from the rington has many hopes and expectastress of directing in order to spend more tions for the upcoming musical. His plan time with their is to involve as families. Mr. “Drama is the art of imitation. Study many students Harrington, everything you can get your hands as possible— the Curricunot just those lum Associate on, and then make it your own.” interested in of the MHS performing, but English Department, has generously also those looking for leadership roles stepped up to the plate and taken on the and behind-the-scenes participation. role of director of this year’s musical, “Theater changed my life as a high The King and I, which begs the ques- school student,” Mr. Harrington said, tions: Who is this guy? Where is he and it is his goal to pass on that love of from? What are his qualifications? That theater to the students. With his extenis exactly what I, investigative reporter sive background in both literature and Grace Rivera, hoped to find out when I music, Mr. Harrington hopes to teach approached him for an interview. students how to understand a show in its First off, I think I deserve claps totality in order to help them better comfor finding his room in the circuitous municate themes and characterization. maze of crowded hallways that we call Now that the mysteries surour school. As Curriculum Associate of rounding the new director have unEnglish Language Arts here at MHS, folded, there is only one question left one would assume to find Mr. Har- to ask: what advice does Mr. Harrington rington near the English department… have for students interested in auditionWRONG! His office is actually located ing? “Drama is the art of imitation,” Mr. at the end of the science wing, towards Harrington said. “Study everything you the back of the school. Who would have can get your hands on, and then make it thought it? your own.” It is important for hopeful Anyway, having heard rumors students to become familiar with the that this man of mysterious location has plot, the songs, and the characters in experience in theater, one of my first order to better understand what they are questions was about his background. auditioning for.

Mr. Harrington has quite the resume, With that wise advice I conlet me tell you! Besides obtaining his clude my investigation. It certainly Masters Degree in educational theater seems that the new director is more than at NYU, Mr. Harrington has directed 13 capable of conducting another stellar musicals during his years in the Baldwin performance, and this year’s musical is School Districts. Over the past 25 years, sure to be a hit! he has participated in over 200 shows STAFF WRITER

Theatre Students Flip for Billy Elliot

BY MATIAS CONSTENLA STAFF WRITER

The theater class went to see the Tony award winning musical Billy Elliot on November 18. Billy Elliot was nominated for 15 Tony awards and won 10, including Best Musical.

Billy Elliot is an inspiring story that takes place in County Durham during the UK miner’s strike in the 1980s. It is about an eleven year old boy named Billy Elliot who quits boxing and begins to dance.

Billy’s father isn’t very happy when he finds out that his son Billy is practicing ballet instead of boxing. Throughout the musical, Billy struggles to find a way he can keep his passion for dancing alive.

The theater class went to the matinee showing of the play. They got the privilege to see 15 year old David Alvarez perform as Billy Elliot. He was

one of the three Billys that won a Tony for Best Performance by a Leading Actor in a Musical. The other two Billys that won the Tony were Trent Kowalik and Kiril Kulish.

Photo provided by Mrs.Curiale

Traditionally the theater class waits by the back stage door in order to see the actors to ask them questions and get their autographs. Unfortunately, the play ended later than expected due to technical difficulties and the stars of the show rushed out of the theater so

the class wasn’t able to see any of the leads. However, child wrangler, John V. Fahey, stopped to chat with students for a while.

Fahey was able to share a lot of information with the class of aspiring actors. He said that every kid on the show has a child wrangler, also known as a guardian. He told the class about the young actor’s education: every child actor gets tutored, and at every show there are two individuals who can play Billy and two who can play Michael, just in case one of them gets injured during the show and needs to be replaced. The actor that is not performing is tutored while the performance is underway.

Another interesting fact that Fahey shared is how important the location of the theater is. Billy Elliot is shown in the Imperial Theatre. They picked this theater because there isn’t a subway underneath it, unlike in most theatres. They dug a hole in the stage that goes 18 feet underground so they could bring up a staircase leading up to

Billy’s room. Fahey called it the “million dollar hole.”

Source:applause-tickets.com

Overall, this wasn’t just a wonderful trip, it was also an educational experience for the theater class. The theater course is offered to any student in MHS, so sign up for it next semester or next year and you can enjoy going into the city and seeing a Broadway play.

DECEMBER 2009

NEWS

THE CHIEF 3

News12 Honors Mr. Schmitt Health Care Reform

BY SARA PICKLES HEAD COPY EDITOR

Massapequa High School’s very own English teacher, Mr. Schmitt, was named the 2009-2010 Dowling College/News 12 Long Island Educator of the Month this November. In order to choose the winner of this prestigious award, a committee of acclaimed educators reviewed various nominations that were accepted from schools throughout Nassau and Suffolk County. According to Mr. Schmitt, there were between 50-60 nominees, all of which were studentnominated.

Just by speaking to Mr.Schmitt, it becomes clear how very deserving of this award he is—as I’m sure any past or current student of his could agree.

Although a modest man, even he must be aware of the effect he has on fellow literary-enthusiasts (or learners of any kind,) as it is easy to see in the overwhelming support and love he receives from his students. In fact, the hordes of past-students who filled his classroom after ninth period the day before Thanksgiving break when I interviewed him epitomized this support.

Mr. Schmitt said he knew he wanted to teach English since he was a junior in high school. “I thought it would be fun,” he said, “and it was my best subject.” Mr. Schmitt’s goal for students who leave his class at the end of the year, similar to many other teachers who truly appreciate their job

can agree, is for them to “depart with an appreciation for the subject and its possibilities.” According to Schmitt, his favorite part about class is reading, writing, and thinking with his students.

“I like to propose them with questions that I don’t know the answer to, and converse with them all the possibilities,” Mr. Schmitt said. “I also like to have conversations about literature. I just love talking about it.”

BY CHRIS VALENTI STAFF WRITER

President Barack Obama pleaded with congress to enact his healthcare reform plan on Wednesday September 9. The plan would totally overhaul our current healthcare system and provide insurance for the presently uninsured.

Under Obama’s new plan, people who are already ill could not be denied coverage. In addition, the varying charges for healthcare based on a person’s gender or age would also be stopped. In the bill, Medicare would be improved and guaranteed to senior citizens.

Most importantly, this new plan would prevent insurance companies from dropping people from coverage when they are sick and need it most. The plan has inspired a lot of controversy between lawmakers. Many Republicans believe that the plan would create complete government run control of healthcare, while most Democrats believe that

PAIGE SNIDER//THECHIEF

In recognition of this honorable award, Mr. Schmitt received a plaque declaring his achievement as well as a spot on News 12, which featured him for a period of two weeks. In addition, Schmitt, along with the fellow winners of this award, are to be honored again at a dinner in June.

With some final thoughts, Schmitt said, “I appreciate this award, and it’s nice to know there are so many ways to achieve success in this profession. I’m also happy to see that there’s still an appreciation for the power of the written word.”

Facebook Groups Causing Fights

BY TOM STRONG-GRINSELL ENTERTAINMENT EDITOR

We’ve all seen them; we all stop to laugh, think about how they’re true, and join them—for the most part, never looking at them again. They’re Facebook groups and fan-pages, and there’s one for everything and anything.

Recently, it seems that there has been

the plan is much needed and would help the American people.

After debating over the proposal, on November 7, The House of Representatives voted 220 for the healthcare plan to 215 against the healthcare plan.

Subsequent to hearing this news, President Obama addressed the House of Representatives and thanked them for passing the bill for healthcare reform.

Next, the plan reached the Senate.

On November 21, the senate agreed to debate over the proposal following Thanksgiving recess.

The Senate would like to revise the bill by offering Medicare for 55-64 year old people at a cost. In addition to taking out the public option, the senate is also considering creating two national health insurance companies for the people who are uninsured by the private health insurance companies. This would allow for subscribers to have a choice in which medical plan they prefer.

a spike in the number of groups that promote the hatred of another person; most regularly a celebrity or a particular group, whether it be because of sex, race or even hair color.

Groups like, “new phone/need numbers,” which we have all seen the invites to on a weekly basis, and “The Six Degrees of Separation,” may be a

little more on the normal side of what you would expect on this social network conglomerate. Some groups are a little more out there like, “ If 1m people join, my girlfriend will let me turn my house into a pirate ship,” and others which include petitions to pass the impossible goals of having no homework, or the dislike button that still has not appeared on the Facebook homepage.

Now, these groups are certainly harmless, however there are many other harmless groups that have sparked major controversy. These groups are hate groups, and they seem to be populating everyone’s entire Facebook feeds. For instance, the group “We Hate the New Facebook, so STOP CHANGING IT!!!” and “Team Jacob, Team Edward?

How about team ST*U?” are two rather large ones.

Seemingly innocent, these groups don’t really impact the average person on a day to day basis, but a group or event like “Kick a Ginger Day,” could. You may wonder who would actually follow through with these actions, but considering there are approximately 350 Million facebook-ers, it

Source:Facebook.com

Source: Goddard Institue for Space Studies

wouldn’t be unlikely to find someone who is gullible enough to do something because a Facebook group said so.

Facebook is now also creating controversial issues through groups, events and posts. Upsetting a wide demographic of Facebook-ers. Several weeks ago in Calabasas, California, a group of classmates at a middle school took this the aforementioned group literally and actually assaulted fellow student at A.E. Wright Middle School. According to the police report, the assault was inspired over a Facebook group that may have been inspired by an episode in the South Park series. The report, however, also stated that the student was beaten on two separate incidents. Though the injuries he received weren’t serious and no one has been arrested yet, there still was a police report.

Facebook is also causing controversy in local areas. As reported in Newsday on October 9, a Massapequa Ames Campus student placed a threatening post on Facebook, causing the school district to take appropriate actions to end the situation. When spokesman at the Ames Campus was asked to comment on the event, he declined, stating that it is a confidential matter.

This just proves that nothing you do on Facebook is private, and there will always be consequences to any violent or threatening actions.

OP/ED

DECEMBER 2009

THE CHIEF 4

EDITORIAL

A,B,C, easier than 1,2,3

The symbol of the Chief is possibly the last thing uniting all MHS parents and students regarding the controversial grading debate. Draped across the Board of Education’s table at each meeting, it reminds parents not to get too flustered with their neighbors and co-workers who temporarily are also their opponents.

The topic at the December 3 Board meeting was the grading system at MHS: how grades should be calculated, represented on transcripts, and sent to colleges. Currently, class grades at MHS are averaged into a GPA as the lowest possible number in that category under the alpha system (a B, for example, would be averaged in as an 80 even if a student received an 84.)

After Superintendent of Schools Mr. Sulc spoke at the meeting and presented his recommendation for a modified alpha system, under which the midpoint of a letter grade’s range would be used for GPA calculation, all attending members voted in favor of his suggestions. Few questions were asked by the Board members and they seemed to have reached a general consensus on the future of the district’s grading policies.

This alpha system was identified by Mr. Sulc as helpful and fair, for it would ultimately improve students’ GPAs while continuing the grading system’s flexibility and familiarity for all individuals involved.

Many parents who attended the meeting were strongly against this, however, for they argued that their children were being slighted by the proposed system – they questioned how calculating a lower average into a GPA could be beneficial.

Mr. Sulc identified this problem at an earlier board meeting as the fact that, “Some youngsters who have scored much higher than other youngsters are

The Chief Editorial Staff EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Noelle Witt MANAGING EDITOR Anthony Cassero HEAD COPY EDITOR Sara Pickles BUSINESS MANAGER Lynn Horowitz NEWS EDITOR Chris Riotta OPINION EDITOR Jenna Fratello FEATURE EDITOR Tyler Novet ENTERTAINMENT EDITOR Tom Strong-Grinsell SPORTS EDITOR Nick Barbieri LAYOUT EDITOR Lauren Reisig PHOTO EDITOR Paige Snider EDITORIAL ASSISTANTS Bridget Bergin Eileen Liebler ADVISER Elyn Coyle

getting the same grade,” to which many administrators also support this sysparents agreed. It is at this point that the tem. “In my world of teaching, a letter numerical system is placed on the draw- provides a more appropriate grade for ing board: under this system, grades a student’s love of learning,” said Mr. would be submitted purely as numbers, Piotrowski, Vice Principal of MHS. Despite this clear support of and exact student averages would be the alpha syscalculated into GPAs. tem, however, a This system, faculty meeting though described by Mr. held on Tuesday, Sulc as clear, direct, and December 8 outconsistent with regional lined the plans for schools, is part of a tranthe changes in the sition that will take years grading system. in the making. The switch While the current to a numerical system senior class will requires tremendous and careful work according Results of Poll taken on December 2 remain under the traditional alpha to Sulc, who said that policies and course content books would system, the junior and sophomore have to be changed, the GPA would have classes will have averages calculated acto be reworked, and a modification in cording to the modified-midpoint alpha system as of September 2010. Students course weighting would be required.

Mr. Sulc believes that “our kids who are currently enrolled in the seventh have to be on the same playing field,” as and eighth grades will enter the school students enrolled in schools across the year under strictly the numeric system, country who are ultimately competing based on a 4.0 GPA (as opposed to the with MHS students, and he believes that 4.5 GPA that the district utilizes now.)

The question that is raised, of the utmost concern of the educational body is to ensure that the grading system course, is the level of justice that is inis advantageous to all students (as most volved in this decision. If most students individuals involved in MHS would are in favor of an alpha system and agree). But he also thinks that this can various educational figures are as well, most successfully be achieved through the fairness of the switch to a numeric system is debatable. the modified alpha system.

The support for an alpha system Mr. Sulc is not the only supporter of this method, demonstrated in is very understandable; it provides a sort a Board of Education’s poll of district of subjectivity to the grading policies of teachers whose results leaned towards the district. The majority in favor for the the alpha system instead of the numeric Alpha system was not surprising, and system. Similarly, when The Chief Mr. Sulc knows a possible reason for its administered a random-sampling sur- preference. “If a student receives some vey representing solely letters against bad grades, and the teacher realizes he numbers to over 250 students at the worked hard throughout the year, the main campus, the results showed that a youngster might be bumped up to the majority, albeit a small majority, favored higher letter grade for his work,” he said at the December 3 meeting. some sort of alpha system.

Class participation is considSome Massapequa High School

Farmville Epidemic

BY NOELLE WITT EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Admit it; farming is one of your greatest aspirations. You love the feeling of waking up to a new day with the knowledge that your eggplants are waiting for you in their little plots of land.

You treasure the rare moments when your benevolence as a farmer is recognized and a friend adopts an animal you so thoughtfully posted as lost. And what could possibly be more exciting than counting down the fateful minutes until your strawberries are ready to be harvested after four hours?

Experiencing this passion for agriculture may be difficult for city and suburb dwellers, but fortunately Facebook has an application— Farmville—that allows users to fulfill farming dreams that probably can’t be carried out to their full potential when you reside on Long Island, a flat marshland occupied by residential towns and two boroughs.

The application was designed in 2007 by Zynga, a videogame developer in San Francisco known for its production of MafiaWars and YoVille. Since its release in June 2009, the amount of

active Farmville users has grown to over 63.7 million as of November 9 according to Time magazine.

And of course, as any virtual farming game would be imagined to do, Farmville provides hours of entertainment. You start off selecting your gender, which helps the application to create an avatar that you can customize to look similar to yourself. Who wouldn’t want a mini-me dressed in overalls and a plaid shirt to help you experience the true meaning of farm life?

You’re soon introduced to your own special farm. No really, it’s all yours. A beautiful plot of land sits in one corner. This, to your pleasure, is filled with eggplants that are already fully grown and ready to be harvested!

And because the creators of Farmville are clearly philanthropists, a nice strawberry plant is in the same condition as the eggplants.

You’d never know these same creators are raking in finance as a result of users’ desire to become more experienced farmers. Coins and Farm Cash can be purchased on Farmville by simply entering credit card or PayPal information; pay-

ered a saving grace among students being that it can make or break report card grades. Many readers must be able to recall a time when they raised their hand three times a day, commented their opinions in class, and took decent enough notes to mask that failing test grade they received on a bad day.

It is for this reason that the alpha system is fairer for a more diverse group of students. Many have experienced the day when they’re swamped with five or six tests and quizzes, have an extensive amount of homework, and have studying to do the night before. Sometimes tests won’t reflect a student’s intellect on the topic due to these days. Teachers don’t expect their tests and quizzes to be the sole representation of a student’s performance in a given year, hence why most were in favor of the alpha system.

Students don’t expect their results on tests taken throughout the year to be the only representation of their academic achievement either, hence why most were in favor of letters as well.

While it is true that the majority of schools on Long Island have moved to a numeric system, it is also true that the hold-out schools like Jericho and Syosset are considered the best schools on Long Island. Should not Massapequa be listed among these rather than the masses?

While a majority are in favor the alpha system, the transition that will leave this system behind will still occur in the future. It may not affect current MHS students, but forgetting those who will come after us is a visible lack of character. The Board of Education’s decision to ignore the majority’s opinion is a lack of consideration and character that is too often promoted in the Massapequa community.

ments range from 5 to 40 dollars for 7,500 to 70,600 Farm Coins and 25 to 40 dollars in Farm Cash. With this gain, users can buy more impressive crops, tools, animals, and decorations for their farms. Decorations range from pink outhouses to pink flamingos, and from groovy scarecrows to llama topiary.

And they have caused controversy. In October, Farmville users in India sent a petition to Zynga asking the company to offer the Indian flag as a decoration along with those already available at the time. And yes, if you’d like, you can now purchase an Indian flag for your property.

Despite this incident, Farmville is highly popular among Facebook-ers.

Besides many people wishing to take up farming but lacking the resources to do so, the application’s addicting nature has caused it to become the most-used application on Facebook according to Telegraph.co.uk.

“It’s pointless entertainment, but you just can’t stop playing it!” said MHS junior Sean Scarisbrick, who says he ends up harvesting crops when there is a lack of activity on his Facebook continued on page 7

DECEMBER 2009

OP/ED

THE CHIEF 5

Point

BY LAUREN REISIG LAYOUT EDITOR

Barack Obama is coming up to the end of his first year in office. There is much debate on what he has or has not accomplished. People are being ridiculous, criticizing that he has not done anything and how he is nowhere near where he promised to be.

Our President has begun to turn the economy around, but still has a long way to go. When he took office last January, this country was in the midst of the worst economic crisis since the great depression. All at once, there was a whirlwind of bank failures, and many companies were trying to get government bailout money. All around the nation businesses were going out of business, yet at the same time, prices were constantly increasing, and the average American had to really tighten his or her belt. So, when Barack Obama came into office, there was a $1.3 trillion deficit. A month after the inauguration, Obama signed the American Recovery Reinvestment Act, which created new jobs, and gave 95% of the population tax cuts. Our president has also been trying to stabilize the real estate market, while at the same time; he is trying to compete in the global marketplace.Through the health care bill, the president is trying to lower the costs of prescription drugs, and to make generic drugs more avail-

able to the general public. The presi- will not only affect this great country, dent’s plan does not disband Medicare, but the entire world. We need to begin but instead provides more coverage to to take small steps towards saving the the younger generation. If this younger environment, which depends on everygeneration is healthier, they can help one. As we high school students prepare America become even better. Obama is for college, one begins to realize its working with employers and insurance ridiculous cost. Barack Obama is trying companies to make this happen. to make this more affordable by expandAlso on Tuesday, December 1, ing grants and giving tax breaks. He President Obama addressed the nation also is reforming No Child Left Behind, about so every student can his plan One cannot just slap a band-aid reach his or her full for the on the country and move on. potential. war in Now, I admit Afghanistan. He plans to remove troops giving him a Nobel Peace Prize was after nineteen months, which is not that not right. Obama was only in office for bad. We have been in this war for about a few months, so how could he possibly eight years, so nineteen months is not a do so much to get a Nobel Peace Prize? great deal of time. Obama believes that However, this mistake, which is not sending more troops in will make it easi- his fault, does not mean that his whole er for the Americans to eventually leave. administration is a sham, and it should Why should we just leave Afghanistan if not minimize his accomplishments. we are not finished, leaving the people It is unreasonable for the people of there hostile towards America? This America to expect the world to be fixed would leave us more susceptible to ter- and made completely better. One cannot rorist attacks; America cannot afford to just slap a Band-Aid on the country and have another 9/11. move on. This country needs massive America is in desperate need surgery and recovery to get back to to cut its dependence on foreign oil. where it was. At this time the country President Obama is pushing for a new is facing wars against terror, a failing energy system that is more eco-friendly. economy. Also he must deal with doIn order to fight the climatic change, mestic issues such as ridiculously priced Obama is investing in new clean and re- health care So, while Obama is trying to newable resources, including bio-fuels, fix any and all of these crises, the Amerisolar, wind and geothermal power. This can people should just continue to be

critical of everything he is trying to do.

No, this will just slow the process. Does it really matter what party one is a part of? We are all Americans, and should be nonpartisan in order to develop what really needs to be done.

We will not see the results of most of the issues the President is trying to fix for years. The American people must be patient and allow for the changes to set in. Consider the President’s plans and remember, it took eight years to break the world; at least give Obama his term to fix another man’s mistakes before we criticize him.

Barack Obama: The First Year Counterpoint

BY JENNA FRATELLO OPINION EDITOR

You flip the thin pages of your 2009 calendar only to find that the handful that was once rather thick is now significantly smaller. Yet, as more blunt red X’s begin to consume the little date boxes on your calendar, and you feverishly count down the days until the new year, there is another thing that is slowly but surely sneaking its way up to us. Can you guess what I’m etching at?

For all of you political enthusiasts out there who just can’t seem to get enough of programs like Fox News or CNN, I’m sure your ears have been ringing lately with debates about President Obama’s success or failure, triumph or disappointment, eminence or inessentiality.

However, does it really matter what Bill O’Reilly or Brian Williams thinks about his presidency so far? To a certain extent, yes, but we, as the new generation, think of this first year, hold such a stronger importance. That’s because in three short years, if he decides to run for a second term, we will be among the many who decide his fate.

A lot can happen in a year, and sometimes, not enough happens in a year. President Obama stepped into his presidency focused, and pointed in the direction of a change in America, a change that seemed to overly excite his supporters across the country to the point where they felt it necessary to make pointless propaganda over it. Have you seen any of those crazed Obama “fans” run around in their “change” tee-shirts recently? If you haven’t, that’s because according to some recent polls taken from this past spring, President Obama’s “fan club” has surprisingly,

been declining from its once overflowing numbers…I guess that means they should stop ordering all of those “change” tee-shirts. A poll taken on July 13, showed that Obama’s support has decreased by 6 points due to wide skepticism concerning his ability to get a grasp on the continuously drowning economy; leaving him with an approval rate of 57 percent which is really not that terrible. President Obama still has at an approval rate that is more than 50 percent for his first year in office, but he does by the skin of his teeth.

On December 1, President Obama made a speech announcing that in the coming months, 30,000 U.S troops will be deployed to Afghanistan, making those who voted for him feel hugely disappointed, because he stated that he would avoid the deployment of troops. According to a poll taken before his speech President Obama held a mere 35% of approval ratings from Americans regarding his grasp on affairs overseas. Previously, that approval rate stood a little more comfortably at 49% in September, and at 56% in July. Yet in the midst of this arising feedback, Obama has refrained from leaving any sort of insinuation as to what date U.S troops will be withdrawn from the war hinting to many Americans that he is trying to discover a political balance or common ground on such a controversial issue. As nice as playing the beloved role of peacemaker is, sooner

or later President Obama will come face to face with the day where he can only make one side of the argument at ease.

A peacemaker or an instigator? 2010 will uncover the answer.

While some supporters stand strong for President Obama, others have begun to let go of their hope. We all know that being a president is most certainly not an “easy” job in the least. A year can fly by in the blink of an eye, and in all honesty, it is not always enough of time to place a permanent seal of approval or disapproval upon a president.

Yet, as the days flew by this past year I could not help but think that sometimes President Obama was not the best man for the job; and this year, as I continue to sit in my room, eagerly watching my guilty pleasure, Bill O’Reilly’s No Spin Zone, waiting for him to lash out his opinions left and right about the president as if my life depended on it, I will hope that some of you out there will be doing the same.

EDITORIAL CARTOON

Source:Ipsos/McClatchy polls Cartoon by Tara Gruber

FEATURES

DECEMBER 2009

College and Economy

BY MORGAN MAXWELL STAFF WRITER

It’s safe to assume that when applying to college, students feel a great deal of stress. However, due to the recession the students’ stress increases when it comes to financial situations.

In these economically challenging times, fewer students are able to afford private colleges such as Yale, Northeastern, Boston College, Adelphi, and Georgetown. Now, more students are attending SUNY schools and community colleges. As a result of the increase in the number of students attending SUNY and community colleges, these schools are now more competitive, and as a result, harder to get into.

MHS guidance counselor Matthew McCauley said, “More students are attending Nassau Community College and there is talk about setting higher requirements for the students who would want to attend.” He also said that the SAT scores for SUNY School have increased because SUNY schools are getting increasingly competitive are therefore setting higher standards for the students.

On the contrary, due to the private schools unfilled capacity, they are giving students more money then a SUNY school would. Kenny St. John, a senior at Lindenhurst High school, said, “I am applying to a private school. They give much more money than public schools in terms of financial aid. Elite privates such as Georgetown, Boston

College, and the Ivys will even pay 100% of your demonstrated financial need.”

Michael Schiano, a Massapequa High school graduate of 2009, believes that every school should be willing to help students with finiancial issues. “College is about providing a quality education and not about making a profit,” he said.

Students have also said that they are less likely to go away to school and more likely to commute back and forth due to the recession. More students are willing to stay home and commute rather than pay room and board on top on their tutition. However, there has not been a decrease in the number of students attending college. Similarly, students say that they are taking AP classes and applying for scholarships in order to get as much money as they can for college according to Mr. McCauley.

The recession is causing a great deal of stress on students applying to colleges. A greater amount of students are taking more AP classes, which drastically increases their high school work load. Also, students are now taking up part time jobs in order to pay for college. In these economically hard times, students’ stress only increases as they try to figure out how they are going to pay for college.

Philosophy: Fate or Free Will?

BY MATTHEW GOLDENBERG STAFF WRITER

Philosophy, derived from the Greek words Philein (love) and Sophia (wisdom), is the study of what we should do and why we should do it. It’s about making sense of the arcane world we live in. As human beings, we all have to deal with questions lingering in the back of our minds. Is there a God? How can I be moral? Is there universal truth?

Why are we here? What happens when we die? What happened on Gossip Girl last week? The sobering fact is that we have to face these doubts at some point in our lives, and that’s what philosophy is all about. As Kierkegaard, a renowned Danish philosopher put it, “How should I live? What life or ideal should I live or die for?”

A philosopher is any person who seeks answers to these questions.

Nietzsche, Socrates, Plato, Aristotle, Locke, Hume. These people have embarked on a quest of sorts to discover their purpose in life, assuming that life has a purpose in the first place. Philosophers have the unique problem of determining not only what they know, but what they don’t know. That’s where epistemology comes in.

Epistemology is a long, frightening word for the study of knowledge.

It’s about what knowledge is and how we can be sure that what we know, or rather what we think we know, is true. The most famous epistemological thought experiment is René Descartes’ problem of the malevolent daemon, also known as the evil genius hypothesis. It

has experienced a bit of a revival lately thanks to The Matrix. The paradox put forward by Descartes in The Meditations is as follows: how can we be sure that there is an outside world, and that our sensory information isn’t being fed to us by a computer? Are we mere brains in vats? It’s an interesting question to say the least.

All of our knowledge comes with the presupposition that our own faculties are allencompassing, that everything at work in our universe is observable, quantifiable and logical. The only way to determine whether or not our senses are reliable is by using our senses, so how can we tell if they’re reliable in the first place? If we can’t even trust ourselves, what can we trust?

Ethics is the study of right and wrong: what we should do with our lives. Friedrich Nietzsche fought an even more fearsome enemy than Descartes’ demon: nihilism. In layman’s terms, nihilism is the ethical idea that there is no universal truth and consequently that life is meaningless. It is the rejection of reason itself. To quote an old aphorism, “Life’s a b---- and then you die.” Now that I’ve irrevocably ruined your day, let me get back on topic. Ni-

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Family is Family

BY KAITLIN GORDON STAFF WRITER

The holidays can be very emotional for certain teenagers, especially teenagers that have been adopted at birth. For teens growing up, it can be difficult to be cheerful when one knows that they aren’t with their birth families.

For other teens that are adopted, however, they feel thankful that they are with a family that loves and cares about them. “For me,” Lauren Speckmann, a junior at Massapequa High, explained, “being adopted is just words. It doesn’t bother me knowing that I don’t know the parents who share my DNA.” Not all teens have the same optimistic view on adoption as Lauren Speckmann. Some feel depressed and abandoned. It can be comforting to know, however, that when babies are placed for adoption at birth, there is usually a good reason for it. “My mother was young. She was eighteen, so her decision to put me up for adoption seems to have been what was best for both of us in the long run,” Speckmann said.

Adoption, at times, can be difficult to talk about between the members of the adopted family. Some teenagers don’t even know they are adopted. Fortunately, for many teens who are adopted, they are informed about their birth parents and their adoption.

“Ever since I was little, from day one, my parents made it clear that I was adopted,” Speckmann said.

Adoption can affect teenagers in different ways. Whether it is a positive effect or negative effect, it is still an effect. Over this holiday, many adopted teens like Lauren Speckmann will be thankful for the family they have now and that they are surrounded by people that love them.

“My parents are my parents as far as I’m concerned,” Lauren said, “and I wouldn’t want it any other way.”

For me, being adopted is just words.”

etzsche was desperate to prove nihilism incorrect; if there really was no point to life, why should he even continue living it? What implications would it have on society? Is God truly dead? He faced this very dilemma in Beyond Good and Evil and The Gay Science, though disappointingly the latter is not about Richard Dawkins making an appearance on Project R u n w a y.

Nietzsche defined nihilism as “the radical rejection of source: collegecrunch.org value, meaning, and desirability.” He proposed that nihilism itself is self-refuting. If there are no universal truths, then nihilism itself—the claim that there are no universal truths—cannot be true. He thought that nihilism was the result of valuing supernatural, unearthly things over human ones.

Another major part of philosophy is metaphysics, a precocious little word which is beyond the scope of this article to define. Suffice it to say that metaphysics—literally “beyond physics”—is about the nature of reality

source: Adoption_Discovery.com

itself. The most disconcerting metaphysical problem is that of whether or not we have free will.

Technically speaking, there is an entire spectrum of determinism versus indeterminism and compatibilism versus incompatibilism, but I’m going to take some liberties and simplify matters in the interest of time. People who think that we have no free will and that the future is unchangeable and predetermined are called determinists. On the other hand, people who think that humans have free will and the future is subject to change are called indeterminists.

Basically, the question is whether we are consciously able to choose our own actions or not. Did you just decide to read this article, or was it the result of a long string of actions going back as far as time itself? If everything is predetermined, the result of some causal chain, can people even be held responsible for their own actions? Determinism, if true, has some very disturbing ramifications.

It would mean that our own lives are out of our control. In fact, the debate between determinist philosophers and indeterminist philosophers still rages on today.

Philosophy is a lot of things: confusing, romantic, entertaining, strange, fun, and downright frightening at times. Still, what’s a nobler goal than the pursuit of universal truth? I’m not asking you to go buy a copy of Groundwork of the Metaphysic of Morals; just start asking questions. It’ll pay off in the end.

ENTERTAINMENT

DECEMBER 2009

Marjorie Post Icewoman Rink

BY EILEEN BETZ who dedicated 50 years of her STAFF WRITER

Marjorie Post’s career in public service began in 1921 doing public service as Massapequa’s first post master.

She was also involved in the Zoning Board of Appeals and was a member of the Board of Red Cross for Nassau County, a secretary for School District #23, a historian for the Town of Oyster Bay, and a member of the Women’s Confederation of Nassau County. Marjorie Post was the Town of Oyster Bay’s first council woman. After her nine years of service, she retired in 1965. One of her last accomplishments as a member of the board was working hard to avoid the Thorn Estate from turning into a shopping mall, and during the same year the Board decided to make the landmark a town park. It was dedicated to her and named Marjorie R. Post in honor of the

life to the community.

Though Massapequa has a series of beautiful parks run by the Town of Oyster Bay, one of the nicest features of any of the parks is the ice rink located at Marjorie Post, on Merrick and Unqua Road.

Chris Betz, Public Safety for the Town of Oyster Bay who coached the youth hockey program for 23 years, filled us in. “There is a youth hockey

Sickness Prevention

BY RUBI PASSEN STAFF WRITER

It’s cold season again, and no one is completely safe from getting sick.

Everyone has gotten sick at least once in his or her life, and just about everyone hates it. Sneezing and coughing continuously is so irritating that some people take extra steps to avoid getting sick. Washing your hands is a great way to stay healthy, but will it help when someone sneezes in your face?

One of the biggest ways colds spread is through other people, and when people next to you cough and don’t cover their mouths, there is a good chance you’re going to get sick. “People need to cover up their mouths when they cough or sneeze because a lot of germs are transmitted this way,” Mrs. Thornton, an art teacher at MHS, said.

So if individuals cover their mouths all the time when they’re about to cough or sneeze, we’re all safe from getting sick, right? Not necessarily.

Even if someone uses his hand to cover his mouth, germs can still be spread.

What if you don’t know the person who

just walked up and asked you to borrow a pen sneezed? What if you don’t know the person who had the bathroom pass before you was coughing in the hallway? And what if you opened a door that someone who was sick had just opened, or sat down at a desk that a sick person was just sitting at?

Instead of using your hand to cough into, it’s better to use your sleeve because if you use your hand you’re probably going to use that hand later to touch surfaces that other people are going to touch, like a doorknob, and those people may get sick from the germs.

This is why it’s a good idea to wash your hands or use hand sanitizer often. There are also other ways to avoid getting sick, like avoiding rubbing your eyes or touching your face. “I drink plenty of orange juice, eat healthy, and exercise,” Mike Morgan, a senior, said.

So while there is no guarantee that you’ll be able to avoid getting sick for the rest of your life, there are steps that can be taken that make it much harder to catch colds and to spread them as well.

Sourrce: www.harrybliss.com

program, which is held on Monday through Thursday, 6:30-9:30 PM. There is also skating which is open to the public on Wednesdays 3:30-5:30, Friday 4-6 PM, 7-9 PM, Saturday 10 AM-12 PM, 1-3 PM, 4-6 PM, 7-9 PM, and Sunday 10 AM-12 P.M, 1-3 PM, and 4-6 PM.” Daniel Betz, a rink guard at Majorie Post, said, “The park has additional programs to offer, which include the youth ice hockey project, ice skating lessons, and public skating sessions. The rink is also open to rentals for a fee of $150 per hour.

TYLER NOVET//THE CHIEF You can also rent a pair of skates for $3.” Additionally, there is a good discount that you can get at the rink. “You can purchase discount

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books for groups of 10 for adults and children. These are $25 each.”

Sandra McCarthy, Public Safety for the Town of Oyster Bay, said, “There are additional amenities that patrons can use, which include a fire place, concession stand, vending machines, bathrooms, skating rink available for rental, ice hockey and birthday parties.”

There are many students at MHS who are skaters at Marjorie Post.

“I come to the rink a good amount,” sophomore Tina DiTommaso said.

“It’s a fun place to hang out with your friends.”

“The rink is a lot of fun! I used to go every Friday night when I wasn’t so busy,” said junior Laura Gager.

Enjoy your winter at the rink and make sure to grab yourself a cup of hot cocoa when you are there from the concession stand!

Why Teens Begin to Smoke

BY ANTHONY CASSERO MANAGING EDITOR

You see them all the time—some of them are our mothers, fathers, relatives and friends. It is impossible to walk past The Buttered Bagel next to the high school and not experience them.

They are smokers, and they are dying.

In a certain way, we are all dying. However, in a metaphorical sense, while non-smokers are slowly inching towards their eventual death everyday, smokers are jogging towards it. Cigarette smoking is the cause of one out of every three cancers according to DrugAbuse.gov.

So why do so many teens decide to ignore these health risks and light up?

Is it really as simple as peer pressure?

Obviously there are a number of reasons why a person smokes, but one major reason could involve a parent or a role model who smokes.

According to quitsmoking.com, children who are raised by smokers are twice as likely to start smoking compared to children raised by non-smokers.

“I tried my first cigarette when I was in the third grade,” MHS senior Mike Marshall said, “me and my sister smoked…

I don’t know why we did it.”

Another main cause of smoking is stress relief. Many teens turn to cigarettes for an artificial, temporary happiness. “When I took that first drag it calmed me down and brought me back down to earth,” MHS student Tom Conway said.

Stress relief also played a role in getting Mike Marshall to begin smoking the summer before ninth grade, as he claimed. “I was just dealing with a lot of stress and my sister was like, ‘Here, [smoke] this.’”

Once a person begins to smoke, the nicotine of cigarettes makes it very difficult to stop. Tom Conway has attempted to quit smoking four different times. “At first, I felt like I was missing something like a hungry feeling, but then it would get worse like I was starting to starve, and I would get angry,” said Conway regarding his feelings of

nicotine withdrawal.

Although teens must be aware of the dangers of smoking, many teens still smoke and ignore the health risks.

“Do you worry about the health risks of everything you do?” Marshall said.

On the bright side, according to drugabuse.gov, teen smoking as a whole is on a downward trend. Smoking rates amongst high school students reached an all time low in 2008. However, there still are many teens who risk their health everyday.

Farmville continued from page 4 News Feed.

Possibly the most interesting aspect of Farmville (even more interesting than the fact that you can purchase a pagoda—yes, you read me correctly, a pagoda—for your land) is that the application is based on a real-time system.

The crops planted must be harvested in a set amount of time if you wish to avoid them withering away and losing valuable coins in the process. Just imagine how disappointing it would be to buy a yellow melon for 205 coins and then forget to return to harvest it after its fourday-growth period. Now that would be devastating.

The problem with Farmville naturally occurs due to this time limit, for users are pressured into remaining loyal to their crops even when life’s most important duties are calling.

Facebook-ers will find themselves questioning their morals as they participate in real life while their 65 coin Pattypan squash is left to turn brown and dull on their virtual farms.

I can’t pinpoint exactly when simulated farming replaced the desire to live freely, but I can say that Farmville has left its mark on the future agricultural producers of the world. Who knows – it might have even inspired fellow MHS students to dispose of their prior dreams and instead try to harvest a farm with six plots of land and a pagoda.

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DECEMBER 2009

An Interview With the Man from the North

By Zachary Urban

Most celebrities are exploited to no end. We know every single aspect their lives. Isn’t it ironic that possibly the most publicized celebrity in the entire world also happens to be the center of the largest mystery known to man?

Who is

this man? What is he like? You all know him…or do you? He’s the real Mr. December and he brings us gifts every year, but how much do you really know about Santa Claus?

As you may remember

from t h e children’s claymation Santa Claus is Comin’ to Town, Santa comes from humble beginnings. He was orphaned as an infant and deserted by the sinister Burgermeister Meisterburger

when left on the cruel man’s steps. Before the babe could be transported from the Burgermeister’s door to the local orphanage, a wind picked him up and whisked him off to the care of an elf family, the

Top Ten Tips for the Holida

By Bridgid Bergin

Top Gifts of 2009 Kindle Wireless Reading Device Programmable Gaming Robot Nintendo Wii Console and Balance Board 8 GB iPod touch (3rd Generation) LEGO Mindstorms Flip Ultra HD Camcorder Star Wars Science - Force Trainer 55-Inch LED TV

In the words of Andy Williams, “It’s the most wonderful time of the year… time! With the jingle tunes, the poser “Santa” getting demands from little children tions and the gifts. What’s not to love about this special season? And don’t forget ab for gifts that seem to make even old grandmas potential killers for that sale or that precious gift like…Hann maybe? Well either way the holidays can get pretty hectic so here are some tips for you to survive and enjoy the Save money. Considering we are in a pretty tight economic situation right now, instead of spending yo presents for friends and family why not just bake some cookies or make something? Get in touch with your creat Secret Santa. If you are worried about what to get for all of your friends just do Secret Santa. It makes exc only have to worry about getting a present for one person.

Get in the spirit. Watch the traditional movies like The Grinch Who Stole Christmas, Charlie Brown, music.

Don’t get too materialistic. The season is not solely about receiving gifts, but also giving to others. A pretentious gifts— just take time to enjoy the season with your friends and family.

Family drama. Let’s face it: almost every family has some drama going on at the dinner table. However, th from it and just enjoy!

Don’t forget about yourself. With worrying about getting everyone else presents there is little time f something and relax. Just buy yourself a gift for once. (Don’t worry—God will not smite you.)

Go Caroling. It might sound really cheesy but if you’re with all of your friends, caroling can be fun! Plus t it gets you in that holiday spirit, and it brings joy to others.

The list. Don’t get too crazy this year with the desire for gifts since we are in a rough economic situation at try to have just one or two big gifts that you want or ask for something that you really need.

Give back. While you enjoy a great holiday with your family there are still some who are less fortunate. contribute to a toy drive or volunteer at a soup kitchen.

Just have fun! Seriously enjoy yourself! It’s not a time to sulk around the house and dread seeing your f Happy Holidays!

DECEMBER 2009

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Kringles.

Now although the film shakily describes how Santa got his start, there has hardly been any follow up. We don’t know what the North Pole is like or how much Santa has changed sinc e he was a young man with a fluffy amber beard…u ntil now. I recently sat down with the busy man after searching malls all across the Island. Santa is pretty booked this time of year, but I was lucky enough to learn a little bit about his mysterious life.

“Supervise toy making,” Santa said when asked about his daily activities, “all day every day.” Mr. Claus is a hard working man. He employs countless elves and runs a tight ship up in the North Pole. After all, he only has three hundred and sixty four days to prepare toy deliveries for billions of children.

How does he do it? “Twelve hour days and no coffee breaks, only hot chocolate breaks…the elve s tend to nap on the job,” he said with a sly smil e.

Working in the North Pole is no cake walk, sometimes a cookie walk, but no cake walk.

ays

…” Yes, it is finally holiday at malls, the food, decorabout the bustling shopping nah Montana memorabilia, e holiday season. our money on extravagant tive side. changing gifts fun and you etc. and listen to holiday

And that doesn’t mean big

his year try to move away

for you. Treat yourself to

the elderly really enjoy it,

t the moment. If anything, Maybe this year you can

family. Have a good time.

R A D I O C I T Y

ic Musll Ha

What seems to be the ideal profession to many is in actuality a difficult task. Think about it, the average temperature in the North Pole is −30 °F. For many, this would seem like an unbearable working condition, but Santa doesn’t mind it. He thinks the heat is much worse. What does bother Santa is the time he spends away from home this time of year. Mrs. Clau s misses him when he’s off making mall appearances and driving parade floats. It seems this season Santa has so much to do its like he’s in a million places at once . So exactly how does Santa manage all of his inhuman ly feats?

“It’s all about the space-time continuum,” the jolly man said, “I’m moving too fast; that’ s why you can’t see me.” That explains how he’s able to deliver gifts all over the world in such a short amo unt of time without anyone seeing him. But how did an elderly man with the help of mere elves come to use such a powerful force only theorized by most. “Well I have n’t quite figured it out myself,” Santa said humbly. But quickness doesn’t help you squeeze down fireplaces, so how does he manage that one? “I’m not that fat,” Mr. Claus said with a smile.

Bein g that he’s an icon for Christmas spirit, Santa absolutely loves the holiday season, which also explains why his personality is defined by Christmas cheer.

For example, his favorite song is White Christmas by Bing Crosby.

He says it’s impossible to have a favorite toy because he loves them all so much, but he does have a favorite reindeer—Rudolph. He doesn’t like to favo r his antlered companions, but Rudolph save d Christmas after all. And when asked his favo rite type of cookie, it was no contest: the class ic chocolate chip.

This should put to rest many question s about Santa Claus and should prove to all of you non-believers out there that Santa does inde ed exist, so spruce up and be good little boys and girls like six year old Stephen. “Last year I wok e up when I heard Santa’s footsteps. I ran dow nstairs and he left presents and I saw cookie crum bs!” he said with a twinkle in his eye.

It’s important for everyone to believe in Santa however, even adults. “Santa brings about a certain magical feeling that’s impossible to ignore,” Massapequa mother, Barbara, said. “Santa must be real.”

Santa Claus is a diligent yet jolly man. He works hard all year round and still finds a way to be the merriest person on the planet— it’s amazing. And from the old man himself, “Me rry Christmas! Ho Ho Ho!”

Fill Your Heart With Christmas

By Stephanie Rollens

“To see the Radio City Christmas Show,” is what usually follows in the world-famous jingle that helps advertise the ever-popular Radio City Christmas Spectacular. I had the great privilege to see this timeless classic at the legendary music hall nestled comfortably in its rightful place on 6th Avenue between 50th and 51st St, where the annual event has been shown for over seventy-five years.

Over the years, it’s become a tradition for my family and I to attend the show because we’ve always enjoyed it and find that it changes slightly from year to year, which makes it an even more anticipated spectacle. From the minute people walk in the doors of Radio City Music Hall, jaws drop at the sight that waits inside. An intricate crystal chandelier is adorned with Swarovski crystal snowflakes, and several elaborately decorated wreaths hang on the wall. One can imagine, just by looking at the detailed architecture and opulent design, that thousands of business moguls, famous socialites, and only the most qualified members of high society attended the very first Christmas Spectacular in 1933. However, upon entering the building, the glamorous red-carpeted walls and gold banisters are only the beginning to what is about to come in this truly spectacular Christmas Show.

As attendees patiently wait in their seats for the show to start, two organists serenade the masses with a medley of classic Christmas tunes. It starts off when the lights dim, then with a warm welcome to the stars of the show, the Radio City Rockettes, as they perform a number to the song “Twelve Days of Christmas”.

I won’t give away everything for people who haven’t seen this show yet, but a few of the highlights are the wonderful new 3D show, the famous story of the Nutcracker, and my personal favorite, the Nativity Scene at the very end—which features live animals such as donkeys, camels, and sheep. Although I try my best not to sound cheesy and cliché, if ever there was a truly heartwarming show, this would be it. It has a way of leaving each and every viewer with a warm, blissful feeling, similar to that which one would have as a child on Christmas morning.

So, if it is possible, I would, without a doubt, recommend this to anyone interested in lifting his or her spirits a little this holiday season. Leave behind the hustle and bustle of the city outside the doors of the hall for the show that sincerely captures comfort and warmth that comes with the holidays, the Radio City Christmas Show.

DECEMBER 2009

ENTERTAINMENT

THE CHIEF 10

V and FlashFoward: ABC’s Response to Lost Ending?

BY NICK BARBIERI SPORTS EDITOR

As many of you already know, come May 2010, ABC’s hit series Lost will be coming to an end. This means that the network will be in need of a new sci-fi show to keep Lost’s fan base watching the network. So what was their solution to this predicament? To issue two brand new sci-fi shows in the fall of 2009, in hopes that at least one will take off and branch into a new hit show that can emulate the success of Lost.

The first of these two shows is FlashForward, which premiered on Thursday, September 24 to stellar ratings and decent reviews. However, since that point, the ratings have been steadily sliding. As of November 19, the show had received its lowest rating in the 18-49 demographic, a 2.4, and has now commonly been slipping below seven million viewers each week. These numbers unfortunately do not call for a major success story, and are absolutely nothing for ABC to be bragging about, so perhaps the network must look for a another show too fill Lost’s shoes, as this show may just be a one-season event.

The show itself is not half bad.

However, the worst part about it is that it has a huge ensemble cast, making it easy to forget which actor plays which character. Some of the actors include former Lost cast members such as Dominic Monaghan and Sonya Walger, as well as the familiar face John Cho of the Harold and Kumar.

The show’s best performer is undoubtedly Walger, whose storyline

of seeing a future in which she is with a man other than the husband and father of her child is absolutely captivating. You can tell that she was one of the best performers from the fact that she had one of the only storylines that was truly memorable.

Another memorable character is Cho, who must deal with the prospect of inevitable death as he did not see a vision of his future.

As for the rest of the ensemble cast, they simply float beneath the radar. A show cannot be successful on two storylines alone, and the writer’s must work on creating captivating storylines for the other characters as well, so that the show will have a improve and have a better flow.

Additionally, ABC launched the epic series V, which finished airing its four-episode arc to start off the series on November 24. These four episodes were nothing short of perfect. Elizabeth Mitchell, famous for her portrayal of Juliet Burke on Lost as well as for portraying Mrs. Claus in both The Santa

Two’s Company 3D’s a Crowd

BY KYLE MAHONEY STAFF WRITER

Think back about five years ago. How many movies in 3-D did you see at that time? Chances are, the only movie in this category was Spy Kids 3-D: Game Over, for which you received those glasses with the red and blue lenses. But 3-D isn’t even like that anymore; you now pay at least three dollars extra for a pair of sunglasses that they want you to give back. The worst part is that more movies are coming out in Digital 3-D or “RealD.” 3-D is no longer a big deal because it’s becoming mainstream.

Digital 3-D first reared its head when Disney decided to re-release Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas in 3-D back in 2006. I personally considered it a big deal for two reasons: getting to see one of my favorite movies in theaters, and getting to see one of my favorite movies in 3-D. The overall experience was great, the only problem was that The Nightmare Before Christmas wasn’t able to use 3-D to its advantage since it was originally released 16 years ago, before technology was developed to the point

it is today.

Since then, more movies have been in Digital 3-D due to its grab on children and sadly some adults as well.

Source: image.examiner.com

I guess the idea of debris almost hitting you every time you go to the movies is popular. Don’t get me wrong, 3-D

Clause 2 and The Santa Clause 3: The Escape Clause, plays the protagonist of the show, FBI Agent Erica Evans. From the moment the show begins, Mitchell is captivating as the world that she knows begins to crumble before her very eyes

when a group of aliens known as the Visitors come to Earth.

Throughout the first four episodes, an innumerous amount of plot twists took place and there was suspense at every moment. This is the epitome of a true sci-fi series; it combines alien action with relatable human storylines, such as the traditional mother-son, husband-wife, boyfriend-girlfriend, and mother-daughter relationships. When all of this combines, V is created, and once you start watching, I promise that you will be addicted.

Unfortunately, the ratings for

movies every once in a while are fine with me as long as they make use of the technology properly. Movies such as Hannah Montana & Miley Cyrus: Best of Both Worlds Concert had no need to be 3-D, but certain movies like Coraline, Cloudy With a Chance of Meatballs, and most recently Disney’s A Christmas Carol have all used their 3-D in a way that does not overwhelm the viewer, unlike The Final Destination and My Bloody Valentine, which overused the 3-D with everything being thrown or blown up in your face.

My point is that 3-D movies are good in moderation; I believe that a cinema such as Seaford Cinemas should be content with one Digital 3-D projector. Some upcoming 3-D movies are Tim Burton’s Alice in Wonderland (2010), Kung Fu Panda: The Kaboom of Doom (2011), and Toy Story 3 (2010).

Personally, I plan to see these three movies in 3-D, but there are upcoming movies I wouldn’t recommend seeing in 3-D, including Shrek Forever After (2010), The Smurfs (2011), and Cats

V appear to be dipping as well. Luckily however, this is common in new shows, and the ratings aren’t dropping as severely as FlashForward. The November 17 episode averaged a 3.1 rating in the 18-19 demographic, which is far better than FF, and received about 9.26 million viewers, but managed to build its viewership throughout its airtime—something that FF does not manage to do.

ABC seems to be marketing V more heavily than FlashForward at this point in the TV season. To emphasize their preference of V, they have created a unique episode commentary feature on their website, www.abc.com, on which viewers can read what experts have to say about the show while watching the episodes. In the future, viewers will be able to create their own commentaries and share them over the popular social networking site, Facebook. They have not done anything even remotely similar to the FlashForward video player, and though they say they plan on expanding it to more shows, I do not foresee it being one of them.

In closing, V is a far superior show than FlashForward, and for that reason, I certainly hope that it goes far.

Perhaps they will consider pairing it with Lost when V returns in March after the Winter Olympics (Lost returns on February 2, 2010.) These decisions have yet to be made, and only time will tell what the future of these two shows will hold. photo source: cache.gawker.com.com

and Dogs: The Revenge of Kitty Galore (2010). Shrek was good, but his last adventure was lackluster; why should his next one be any better in 3-D? And who wants to see a bunch of little blue men (and one girl) – referring to the infamous Smurfs, clearly – coming right into your face? And does anyone even remember the first Cats and Dogs?

Source: underground3dmovies.com.com

DECEMBER 2009

ENTERTAINMENT

Band Spotlight: The Academy Is...

THE CHIEF 11

Their first full CD, entitled “Almost Here,” marked not only the band’s presence on the Billboard Charts (the album peaked at #185 on the Billboard 200, and achieved the #7 spot on the Top Heatseekers chart), but was also the starting point for the band’s excellent performing history. The summer after the album was released, they embarked on their first headlining tour alongside the now overly-popular band, the Plain White T’s.

Additionally, prior to the album’s release, “the Butcher” became the drummer and to this day is a fan favorite, and in 2006 Michael Guy Chislett was added to the band as a guitarist. The current band had taken shape and could focus on evolving its sound and pleasing its audience.

In 2006, the band was a main act on the Vans Warped Tour, one of the most popular concert events of the year for fans of punk, indie, and alternative rock. During this time, they wrote songs for their next album, “Santi,” which was released in 2007, and saw a major increase in the band’s popularity as it peaked at number 32 on the Billboard 200. As a result of this success, they

supported Fall Out Boy on the 2007 Honda Civic Tour, thus gaining national recognition as an act that could now be placed in Fall Out Boy’s rankings, popularizing the band further.

Their most recent studio album debuted in 2008, entitled Fast Times a t B a rrington High.

Without a doubt, this is the most meaningful of all the albums, as Source: last.fm the band truly poured their hearts and souls into writing each of the songs. Primarily, it must be noted that Barrington High is the Chicago High School that Beckett and Siska attended, and is referenced in their video for the hit song, “About a Girl.” Additionally, the band recognized that they would be returning to their roots, seen in its song, “After the Last Midtown Show.” The lyrics, “We’re almost here again…” reference their first album, “Almost Here,” and the band is stating that they are returning to their original sound, which is something that many of the fans were hoping for.

In addition to pleasing fans, this album also pleased critics, as it was racked number 46 on Rolling Stone Magazine’s list of the 50 Best Albums of 2008, further showing that the band would have lasting power and would maintain its popularity.

It is now 2009. Where is the band now? This fall, they co-headlined, along with Mayday Parade, The AP Tour’s Fall Ball, which is an extremely popular tour that once again would allow the band to receive national recognition as a performing act. To accompany this tour, they released a new EP entitled “Lost in Pacific Time.” This EP was to be sold exclusively on the tour, but fans that wanted the disc and could not attend the tour were also able to order a copy online.

Though nothing official has been said yet, there are rumors swirling that they will be releasing yet another EP in mid-2010. Hopefully there is some truth to these rumors, because based on its latest music the band is on track to becoming one of the best indie acts of all time. If you didn’t know The Academy Is… before this article, you certainly do now, and I strongly suggest that you head to YouTube or iTunes and immediately start listening to their music.

life. Then again let’s face it—anything is better then the movie Twilight with The crazy fans screaming for director Catherine Hardwicke.

Robert Pattinson and Taylor Lautner, But let’s focus on New Moon now. fighting over Team Edward and Team In this adventurous, heart wrenching seJacob in a crowded movie theatre can quel, Bella’s (Kristen Stewart) beloved Edward Cullen (Robert Pattinson) leaves her to apparently protect her from himself…what a shocker. So poor, heartbroken Bella is now left to fend for herself in the real world without her vampire boyfriend. She even goes into a depression phase that is marked by the camera spinning around a couple of times to express the months passing. She even screams in her bed, longing for Edward Cullen as if he just took her heart away. Meanwhile, Kristen Stewart shows this pain through screams that sound like she is giving birth and can probably almost make the audience deaf.

Oh wait, we can’t forget about Jacob Black (Taylor Lautner)! He helps Bella through her withdrawal and they even develop a relationship… love source: atcinema.wordpress.com triangle—yes! However, Bella just wants to use him to get over mean only one thing…the Twilight Edward, but she eventually forms a lovSaga: New Moon is here. ing relationship with him. Plus, when That’s right ladies (and gentle- Jacob takes Bella motorcycle riding and men), the swooning Cullens grace the Bella falls off the bike, Taylor’s “35 abs” screen once again followed by the wolf have their breakthrough performance! tribe. Oh, and I can’t forget about Taylor And of course this was followed by Lautner’s “35 abs” (it’s inevitable to girl’s screaming and moaning in the themiss them considering they basically ater (which was really awkward), along have their own role in the movie.) Also, with guys hating their self image. a new member joins the franchise with The movie then goes on about this Christ Weitz being the director, who love triangle’s development and Jacob did a great job bringing the sequel to and Bella’s relationship evolution into

something more than friendship—love.

Oh, how sweet!

Anyway, the presentation of the movie was quite impressive and I must give props to the director Chris Weitz.

The CGI work for the wolves was excellent and the fight sequences were actually impressive. (Guys might even like it…a sin for men, I know.)

The presentation at the beginning was very unique and correlated with the book. Bella thinks she sees her grandma; however she is really looking through a mirror at herself and Edward in a dream sequence. Creepy? Very, considering it shows Bella’s true fear of aging.

However, it seems that they still can not master the complexity of Edward’s pale, vampire skin. In Twilight, he looked like white makeup was caked onto him, but now he just looks sick. And when he took off his shirt in Italy, I believe some died, and not in a good way. It looked like he had brushedon-abs and he resembled Chewbacca.

(Unless you’re into that… then I guess you would like him shirtless, but I’d rather see Jacob Black.) Thankfully all the other vampires actually looked as the characters are portrayed in the book.

Their complexions were great and the wardrobe and hair were so much better.

Additionally, the Volturi, the royal family of vampires, was amazing. It was as if they had jumped off the pages of the book. It seems that this movie even has a comedic side to it with the humans of the series bringing a comic relief. One scene that made viewers cringe when watching, yet was pretty funny, was when Mike Newton (Michael Welch), Jacob Black, and Bella go to the movies together and Mike gets sick.

I believe fans will be really impressed and satisfied with this movie since it actually relates to the book this time and does not add ridiculous lines like, “Hold on tight spider monkey,” (which never happened in the book, mind you). While there is added dialogue and additional scenes with Edward Cullen (God forbid they left him out) along with awkward dialogue (as made even more apparent by Stewart’s odd acting), Twilight Saga: New Moon proved to be a success in my eyes.

At times the movie seemed to go by quite slowly, but the viewer was able to get the whole mood of the story and actually understand what was going on.

Each scene followed another and everything pulled together in the end. The end is absolutely genius, by the way. While some may be angered by it, I think it’s a great way to end the movie and segue to the third installment, Eclipse. However, you must go see the movie to understand what I’m talking about!

Overall, Twilight Saga: New Moon was a great movie to watch. Even the people who are not fans have the opportunity to enjoy a well put together movie. It would be hard for me to say that it was not success considering it roped in $140.7 million in its opening weekend.

So just go and watch it! Even if you’re one of those, “Oh my god I hate Twilight, I will never ever read the books nor watch the movies; it’s stupid!” claimers, at least see it to make fun of it, because believe me, there are still many things to make fun of. Then again, the movie was actually good! I give a “thumbs up” for this romantic-fantasyaction-comedic-drama-filled movie and the ending will leave you hanging.

BY NICK BARBERI SPORTS EDITOR

Are you familiar with the band The Academy Is…? If so, then I am certain that you will appreciate this article. If not, then keep reading because you are about to discover my personal favorite band. Since 2003, William Beckett, Mike Carden, and Adam T. Siska have been rocking the world with their band, The Academy Is…. Though current members Andy “The Butcher” Mrotek and Michael Guy Chislett were not members of the band yet, the band was still a frontrunner for the best indie band of the time. Throughout the band’s history, excellent music has been created and shows that are superior to many have been played, all culminating in this past fall’s release of its new EP, “Lost in Pacific Time,” and their co-headlining of The AP Tour’s Fall Ball.

Following the release of their EP “The Academy” on LLR Recordings in 2004, the famed bassist of Fall Out Boy, Pete Wentz, listened to their music and was able to initiate a contract between the band and Fall Out Boy’s then-label, Fueled By Ramen Records.

This label, which is primarily known for indie rock acts, was the best thing to happen to this small Chicago band, for they were instantly skyrocketed to fame in the world of indie rock.

A New Moon Rises and Takes the Box Office by Storm

BY BRIDGID BERGIN STAFF WRITER

DECEMBER 2009

FEATURES

THE CHIEF 12

Student Spotlight: Jess Zaret All Aboard SMART Boards

BY AMANDA STAATS STAFF WRITER

Although she only stayed in chorus for a few years of elementary school, Jess Zaret, a senior at MHS and a local musician, still has a passion for singing. In the sixth grade she was chosen for a solo, and ever since then has been inspired to sing. She began writing songs in elementary school and has recently learned to play guitar, by teaching herself in the ninth grade. “I felt like playing guitar would really help me as a songwriter,” Jess said.

Now she takes guitar lessons once a week.

Jess performs often at open mic nights at local coffee houses, her favorite being The Cup in Wantagh.

During her first performance at The Cup, Jess immediately fell in love with performing. She loves sharing her music with other people. “It was nerve-racking at first, being up on stage with all those people staring at you, waiting for you to sing—but once you start playing, you sort of get into it. You forget that there’s a bunch of people staring at you and focus on your music.”

The Cup is a very popular coffee house with many visitors, including many current and former MHS students as performers. “There are a large variety of performers at The Cup, as well as large crowds coming to see their friends perform,” Kelly Burke, senior and friend of Jess, said. Kelly has been to The Cup three times, all of which to see Jess perform. Jess plays a variety of songs at The Cup, including covers

of some of her favorite artists such as the Jonas Brothers, Taylor Swift, and Maroon 5, as well as her own songs.

Jess’ biggest inspiration is Taylor Swift. She believes that her songwriting style is similar to Taylor Swift’s in that she writes about everyday life and the people and places that are familiar to her. Jess looks up to Taylor Swift because, like Jess, she started out as a regular teenage girl. “I am where she was years ago,” Jess said, “Just singing and playing and hoping one day

AMANDA STAATS//THE CHIEF

to share my music with the world.”

Jess does not play any other instruments, but would like to learn piano in the future. “I want to be able to add more variety into my music and I think that by learning to play the piano, I can do that,” Jess said.

She will continue performing and writing, and hopes to one day perform on stage in front of thousands of people. Until then, Jess will stick to her schoolwork and spend some of her Saturday nights sharing her music with the locals at The Cup.

BY TIMMY ROOT STAFF WRITER

SMART boards are a controversial topic within Massapequa High School. They used to have “This is not a whiteboard” signs above them in every classroom; now the school is making sure that teachers and students have the opportunity to use these advanced learning devices.

S M A RT boards were first introduced to the Massapequa School District in the 2002-2003 school year according to Jennifer Steigerwald, the Executive Assistant for Digital Curriculum Development and Support for the Massapequa School District.

“They were installed in every computer lab as part of the Intel Teach for the Future program,” said Steigerwald. Since their inauguration, SMART boards have been added few by few each year until this school year when. “We were able to deploy almost 200 SMART boards across the district of our nine schools,” Steigerwald said.

SMART boards, which can cost $1500 to $3000 each according to touchboards.com, classrooms by allowing a more hands-on and active learning style.

However, one problem that the district

knew it would face when installing this new technology was giving teachers the proper training so they are able to use SMART boards regularly with ease.

The school district gives teachers with SMART boards in their rooms three full days of training during the course of this school year and some are taking this training after school hours according to Steigerwald. Not all teachers have the

TYLER NOVET//THE CHIEF

ability to take the courses after school and some have to miss classes to attend these training seminars.

Nevertheless, with the amount of money put into them, SMART boards are here to stay.“I can envision a SMART board in every room where it is instructionally appropriate,” Steigerwald said, “ It would be our goal to insure that all students have the opportunity to access this learning tool.”

So take advantage students!

Massapequa Perk: The Coffee House in ‘the Park’

BY MARIA CASSANO STAFF WRITER

Since 8/8/08 – the “luckiest date ever,” as owner Lisa DiBenedetto calls it – a small coffee house has been providing clued-up Massapequans with the freshest brewed coffee available.

Nestled into the line of shops and stores right outside the Massapequa Park train station, this tiny caffeine-haven is often overlooked by commuters, shoppers, and students. But it’s finally starting to get so me recognition—and for a good reason.

Opened by Lisa DiBenedetto more than a year ago, Massapequa Perk is the only true espresso bar on Long Island. It’s operated just like the espresso bars one would see if he or she visited Europe, complete with a counter that overlooks the machinery so the costumers can watch while the barista makes the coffee. “Everything is done right in front of you,” Lisa says. “You can see the cleanliness and the ingredients and the whole process, rather then most coffee places, where all of a sudden your drink is at the end of the counter.”

Massapequa Perk prides itself on quality; the coffee beans are microroasted, meaning that they are handled and chosen very carefully. Unlike most coffee houses, the beans are stored and roasted here in America, rather than importing stale beans that were stockpiled in the countries they were harvested in. If that’s not enough to guarantee

freshness, Perk grinds the coffee right in front of you, just seconds before it’s brewed.

What most avid-coffee-drinkers

hand, uses only the richest and healthiest of coffee beans. Thankfully for the staff of Massapequa Perk, (all eight of whom are residents from Massapequa, by the way) customers are starting to catch on; regardless of the three Starbucks and five Dunkin Donuts locations in the area, Perk has been nominated for the best cup of coffee on Long Island—as Elf said, “It’s good to be you.”

Quality isn’t the only thing that makes Massapequa Perk stand out, though.

It’s also the quaint feel and the comfortable atmosphere. “The difference between a coffee shop and a coffee house is TYLER NOVET//THECHIEF the furniture,” Lisa don’t know is that places like Starpointed out, motioning to the cushioned bucks and Dunkin Donuts buy their cof- brown sofas and towering bookcases. fee beans in bulk for low prices without “It’s a coffee house if it looks like a even bothering to sort out the damaged living room.” And it just so happens to sections of the harvest. “They just slap be as cozy as one, too. the money down on the table and say, On Saturday nights starting at ‘I’ll take the whole crop,’” the owner 8:00, Perk hosts live music sets, featursays. Massapequa Perk, on the other ing original singers and songwriters.

“It’s great, and since all the material is original, it’s free,” Lisa said, “There’s no cover charge or drink purchase required for the customers, and we get to promote local music culture at the same time.”

Another unique service Perk provides for its patrons: the exotic and foreign coffee that changes with the day.

If you’re looking for flavored coffee, you won’t find it here; Perk supplies “just what the earth bore,” as the owner puts it. But every day, a different type of coffee bean from a different part of the world is put into the grinder. That way, people get to drink coffee from all kinds of places. As one Perk-regular wittily stated, “It’s like traveling around the world in a coffee cup.”

Perhaps micro-roasted coffee from somewhere else isn’t your cup of tea, though. So why not try… a cup of tea? They’ve got twenty-four different types, not to mention a glass display case of imported pastries and an extensive list of delicious smoothies, both dairy and nondairy, for those of you who are lactose intolerant.

Whatever you’re into, it would seem as though Massapequa Perk has something for everyone who comes in.

Next time you’re in need of a caffeine fix, a relaxed study-session, or some “music culture,” stop by the coffee house that’s slowly but surely changing the way that Massapequans view their coffee houses.

FEATURES

DECEMBER 2009

THE CHIEF 13

MHS Support Group

BY TARA GRUBER STAFF WRITER

Most people think of the holidays as happy and memorable times, spent with Mom, Dad, brothers, sisters, and other loved ones. Others who have lost their parents and/or sibling do not think of the holidays this way. Those selected few feel alone, secluded, and surrounded with unhappiness. There is now an empty spot at the dinner table, a piece of their heart has gone missing.

After losing a loved one, many changes, problems, and emotions that have never been felt before have now emerged and dealing with them can be difficult.

Having lost a parent and/or sibling is possibly the most painful experience one can endure. Living everyday feeling like something is missing, something isn’t right. Many people feel uncomfortable discussing their thoughts and feelings with anyone at all. You are not alone; there are quite a few students who have lost a parent or sibling who are feeling just as you are.

There is a solution to lessen the pain you are feeling, and help you grieve in a healthier way. Some of the students here at Massapequa High School take part in the school’s support group. Although many students may not be aware of this, Massapequa High School offers a special group for students who have lost either a parent or sibling.

Mrs. Sabatini, the Director of Guidance, is the head of the group who is present at every meeting as well as social worker, Mrs. Waters and guidance counselor, Mrs. Parkes.

The support group is not great in size, but this year’s group is fairly large, consisting of twelve students in comparison to last year’s group, which only consisted of about six or seven students.

The group usually begins after Thanksgiving when the holidays start approaching. “Around the holidays kids tend to get upset and sad when they think about that person,” Mr. Sabatini said. This is absolutely true, for after losing a loved one, holidays are never the same. It usually does get very hard to remain emotionally stable during these times when all you can think about is your mother, father, brother or sister who isn’t with you any longer but should

be spending the holidays with you. During meetings, students talk about how to handle these tough times during the year and compare often-mutual thoughts relating to their lost ones.

I took part in this group last year and it helped me talk about subjects that I would feel uncomfortable talking about with my friends or even my family. The support group helps you to open up to what you’ve been holding in and to talk about anything at all.

“Sometimes kids feel isolated; they feel like they are the only ones who have lost loved ones,” Mr. Sabatini said. Knowing that you are not the only one makes you feel less lonely and lets you know that this did only happen to you, but has happened to several of your peers as well. For me, it is a bit different because I have lost a brother, but most of the students in the group have lost a parent and they all can relate to each other very well. We compare how holidays are, how we feel, and what has changed at home since the loss of our loved one.

Lots of tears are shed during these meetings, and it becomes hard to talk about certain subjects at times, but everyone knows that everything said is strictly confidential. Nothing leaves the room. In order to have this group exist, there needs to be trust between the students, and in this group there certainly is a massive amount of trust. No one is judged and everyone is there to listen and talk about what’s going on at home/ school and how to cope with his or her loss.

“Being in this group doesn’t mean anything is wrong with you. It’s a way of reaching out for help,” Mr. Sabatini said. You aren’t weird or different; it’s just a way of helping yourself to be a happier person. If you are interested in joining or have any questions about the group at all, just stop by the guidance office and ask Mr. Sabatini, Mrs. Waters, Mrs. Parkes or even me about it. New members are always welcome.

Honestly, it is a really great way to discuss with your own peers how it feels to have lost one of the closest people to you, and I very much recommend this group to the students here who have lost a parent or sibling.

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SHAYNA GOLDMAN//THE CHIEF This quilt was hung in the auditorium during HIV/AIDS Awareness Week. It is part of a much larger quilt displayed in Washington D.C. that goes on for miles. Each piece is made by family or friends of someone who passed away due to HIV or AIDS.

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Potsdam, New York

DECEMBER 2009

NEWS

“Look Homeward, Angel’’ at MHS This year’s drama club production, “Look Homeward, Angel” was performed on Friday November 20 and Saturday the 21 in the Baldwin Auditorium. The cast was phenomenal and

Jenna Briedis as the controlling mother Eliza Gant, Zachary Urban as Eugene‘s brother who wants Eugene to have a better life than he did, Ben Gant, and Mariel Horn as Laura James, the beauty from Richmond that catches Eugene‘s eye with a secret of her own.

director Mr. Rian Romeo thought the cast really pulled it together. “Without a doubt, everyone has made incredible strides and will continue to do so tomorrow night,” Mr. Romeo said at the Friday night performance.

“Look Homeward, Angel” is a play about growing up that students can connect to, according to Mr. Romeo.

Andrew Dacunto starred as Eugene Gant, a seventeen year old boy who tries to ignore life’s ways and desires a better life for himself.

Other leads included Jagger Kugler as W.O. Gant, a drunk father,

The whole cast seemed to project their voices well and the lighting was focused and on center so you could see the person speaking well.

Sarah Beckerman (Doctor Maguire) thought the hardest part of the play was memorizing the lines in time.

“Connecting the character to yourself, as an actress and bringing yourself to the character,” Mariel Horn said was the biggest challenge for her.

The acting was very believable and seemed to come naturally to everyone. Senior Katie Boland said, “The play is really good

BY CHRIS RIOTTA

and it seems to be the same M.O,” said Suffolk Co. Det. Sgt. Tony LaVista.

According to ABC News, Suffolk County police also reported a home-invasion in Smithtown, where the father of the house awoke to a gun pointed at his face. With four children and a wife asleep in the same house, the man was in a total state of shock.

Investigators have linked this burglary with three other Suffolk county breakins together, saying the Smithtown home invasion is similar to recent crimes in Islip and Lindenhurst, where residents also awakened to find burglars, who robbed them of their cash and valuables.

Police are also investigating any links to two home invasion burglaries in Melville. The killings of Jennifer Hawke-Petit and her daughters Hayley and Michaela in yet another local homeinvasion inspired Assemblyman Joseph R. Lentol of Brooklyn to introduce a bill in New York’s current legislative session that would establish three degrees of felony in home invasion.

Convicts would be punishable by up to 7, 15 and 25 years in prison, depending on the level of violence. The bill is pending.

Most recently, a man was shot in the abdomen while trying to defend his home in Bohemia on December 14. The New York Times reports that, after two men barged into a home on Sycamore Avenue demanding valuables, the victim was rushed to Southside Hospital in Bayshore where he was pronounced

BY EILEEN LIEBLER STAFF WRITER

and the actors seem professional.”

This play has meant so much to the cast members who have come a long way. Many friendships were made by the cast during preparation for the play that will last, according to Chloe Durkin (Helen Gant Barton).

KELLY CORCORAN AND GRACE RIVERA//THE CHIEF

There were seniors in the play who performed their last drama in their high school career on these two nights. “It is a bitter sweet moment since this is the last time that I will be doing one,” said senior James Vigilante (Hugh Barton) about his final high school drama performance.

Overall, the cast appeared to put an enormous amount of effort in making this play turn out as well as it did.

Congratulations to all the cast members for making the play enjoyable and entertaining.

Local Home Invasions Causing a Stir NEWS EDITOR

Is your home safe? Most people living in the reputably safe neighborhoods on Long Island would, without hesitation, answer yes to this question. However, with local crime percentage soaring and strands of linked home invasions continuing to spring upon these working-class communities, people are beginning to question their homes’ safety in these times.

From 2000 to 2006 (the last year available in reports provided by the Uniform Crime Reports), the home invasion percentage in the U.S. has risen 37 percent, and is predicted to have at least doubled by now. Most invasions on Long Island have happened to normal “everyday” people, including the nearmurder of Roger Monteforte, 68, who had been stabbed multiple times by an unknown suspect with no motive.

Another violent invasion occurred at 5 AM in Suffolk County, when three burglars broke into the home of Anna Graziano, tying her down and gagging her with her own telephone cord as they began ransacking the house for jewelry, cash, and expensive electronics according to CBS. “I can’t believe that such a thing can happen,” she said. After this experience, she plans on purchasing an alarm system for the house. Just ninety minutes earlier, a similar break-in was reported that included men carrying weapons.

“The similarities are there were three black males involved with guns

dead. Homicide Squad detectives identified the man as 53 year-old Steven Privitera, and noted that at 12:28 AM the two men, both armed and wearing masks, forced their way into the house.

Just days before, three men shot 30 yearold Miguel Bisono after breaking into his home on December 10. No arrests have been made to either murder.

While violent home-invasions continue to threaten Long Island communities, more quick and silent break-ins have begun popping up even more local to the high school than ever before. Long Island Press reported recently that a teenager in North Massapequa answered the door to three unrecognizable faces which restrained him in a room as they quickly and non-violently collected valuables.

No injuries were reported, along with no names to match the burglars.

Taylor D’amico, junior at MHS, spoke of a recent run in with what possibly could have been these homeinvaders as she babysat for a neighbor.

“They knocked on the door and told me they were electricians. When I told them nobody was home and nothing was scheduled by the owners of the house, they wouldn’t go away. I locked the door and called the parents. They just stood outside and kept knocking. It was so…eerie.”

Police ask anybody with any knowledge about the recent home invasions to call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-244-TIPS.

THE CHIEF 14

Bowling

BY BRENDAN KEOGH STAFF WRITER

Start greasing those lanes; it’s bowling season.

The Massapequa Chiefs Bowling team embarked on another season on November 18, looking forward to clinching another spot in the County Championship game.

Every team gets a shot to bowl in the County Championship, and it was there that the Chiefs ended their 2008-09 season in disappointment; the Chiefs battled their way through the regular season, but came up short in the County Championships.

The Chiefs are bringing back five seniors: Kyle Desmond, Steve Stashin, Joe Corette, Nick Manino and Jason Kammerer. The team believes that this strong senior class can bring them back to the glory land.

“We have an experienced team,” said senior Kyle Desmond, who started last year on the County team. “Hopefully that will carry us through the regular season and in the Counties.”

The Chiefs play their home games at Farmingdale Lanes. As ironic as that sounds, you can come down and watch the Massapequa Chiefs Bowling team as they try to “strike” out their competition.

Drug Bust continued from page 1 “I can do my stories on them as long as I don’t go further.”

While it may appear that the drug problem in Massapequa is worsening, some active community members are seeing this situation with a glass half filled. Nassau County District Attorney Kathleen Rice said the arrest represents an important victory in the area’s fight against drugs. “Dangerous painkillers like these are often the gateway to more lethal opiates like heroin, and this community right now is ground zero in our battle against the Island’s heroin epidemic.”

It is believed that Francis’ was selling prescription medication to young adults for over five years, dating back before the current interest in tackling heroin usage in Long Island communities began.

While some are celebrating, others are growing concerned with the lack of police in the area controlling the trafficking and obtaining of these medicines. Parents are outraged that a man who worked so close to a school was able to perform such illegal activity. While laws are in effect to make sure no person with a large criminal record may live near a school, there are no legislations regarding businesses or their workers.

The Police Commissioner, along with many community and school members, are hoping that Francis receives the maximum amount of time possible if convicted for his crimes. Rumors of new local legislation are spreading and after the number of drug busts, deaths from overdose, and increasing crime rates that are infectiously growing— the community feels something must be done.

DECEMBER 2009

THE CHIEF 15 ADVERTISEMENT

THE CHIEF 16

DECEMBER 2009

NFL Playoff Preview: A First Look a playoff spot, with home field advantage. The Jaguars easy schedule and the Cedric Benson is a league lead- inconsistant play of the Steelers could ing rusher. Brett Favre actually has push them into the playoffs as the secsomething left. The Lions have won ond Wild Card team.

AFC North two games. It is not a stretch to say this My Playoff Pick: Bengals season has been nothing short of excitThe Cincinnati Bengals have been ing, and here is my take on how the rest a huge surprise this season, of the season will play out with the emergence of Cein each division. dric Benson, and the chemAFC East istry between Carson Palmer My Playoff Pick: and Chad Ochocinco. After Patriots missing the playoffs for The Patriots have a three straight seasons, the future Hall of Famer beBengals have the look of a hind center in Tom Brady playoff team. After a brief and look poised to make stint on the injury report, the playoffs after missing Cedric Benson looks ready it last year. Although the to carry the Bengals into the Patriots have had a few playoffs. bumps in the road, espeSource: wordpress.com AFC West cially losing to the Colts at My Playoff Pick: Chargers (DiviIndianapolis in Week 10, their offense looks locked in, with the return of wide sion) Broncos (Wild Card) After a slow receiver Wes Welker. Bill Belichick will not let the New England faithful go two start, the San Die g o C h a rg e r s years without a playoff team. have been hot, AFC South My Playoff Pick: Colts (Division) winning eight straight games Jaguars (Wild Card) Despite having a rookie head since losing to coach, Jim Caldwell, the Colts have not the Broncos in missed a beat since Tony Dungy retired Week 6. Phillip in January. The high powered Colts Rivers is playoffense is led by Peyton Manning, and ing at a Pro-Bowl head into Week 15 13-0. At this point, caliber level, and the Colts still have two road games at LaDanian Tomlinson and Darren SproBaltimore and Houston and are home les have become a nice combination against the Broncos. Despite the tough in the back field. The Chargers end road ahead, the Colts look primed for the season with tough games against

the Bengals and Titans, but a playoff berth looks definite.

The Broncos have come back down to Earth after their torrid start, and Kyle Orton is starting to look like the old Orton that Bears fans knew and loved, but a recent surge looks like they could grab a wild card spot.

NFC East My Playoff Pick: Eagles (Division), Giants (Wild Card) The Cowboys parted ways with Terrell Owens, who left to “North America’s Team,” the Buffalo Bills, but Roy Williams has filled in nicely as a distraction to the team, complaining that he does not get the ball enough.

The Cowboys still need to face the Saints, Chargers, and Eagles. It seems like the Cowboys toughest opponent is the Cowboys themselves, due to a roster filled with egocentric players. The Giants started the season with five straight wins and dropped their next four in a row until they mustered a win against the Falcons in Week 11.

The Giants lost to the Eagles in Week 14, Source: ugo.com and it will be a difficult road to the playoffs. The only thing keeping the Giants alive is the dreadful

Boys Swim Toward Victory

One Man Standing

BY BRENDAN KEOGH STAFF WRITER

BY ALYSSA YURASITS STAFF WRITER

There isn’t a swimming pool on the “fourth floor” at Massapequa High School, but there is a swim team: one ready to take on rivals, to show off its swimming and diving skills, and to race to a winning finish. With its leading captains Conor Dowd and Wayne Wu, this year’s team is in the hands of returning experts. Since only four seniors graduated last year, Coach Mims has the pleasure of having “the bulk of our team back.”

Coach Mims said that he “noticed a trend in the last few years that we’ve had an amazing number of ninth graders.” These are the dedicated high school students that add excitement and newness to the group, bringing their individual strengths along with them. This season’s young and upcoming ninth graders, specifically bring with them the talent in “specialty stroke,” according to Mims, which is a prospective strong point for the team as a whole according to Mims.

Here in Massapequa, we know a thing or two about rivals; every team

has their own. For this team, the meets to look forward to are always the competitive ones: “Plainview, JFK, Farm-

ALYSSA YURASITS// THE CHIEF

ingdale – who’s a huge rival – and our last meet, [against] Wantagh,” Coach Mims said. These may be the most challenging meets for the swim team, but they are also undeniably the ones that truly showcase the thrill of competition in rivalry.

Uncertainty in whether or not the team will defeat a competitor always brings excitement to Massapequa High School athletics, so it is no wonder Mr. Mims is “excited to see how the season goes.” After all, these are the meets that truthfully illustrate the power in our colors, the power behind the Massapequa blue and gold.

BY LAUREN MESSEMER STAFF WRITER

Cheerleading for High Schools has always consisted of no more than 20 girls on a squad. The cheerleading squad at Massapequa High School has always been a squad full of girls in grades 10 12. However, this school year three males attempted to earn a spot on the cheerleading squad.

Steve Curry did not make the team, and Arturo Montero eventually decided to leave the squad, but Joshua Rosen a senior at MHS, made and stayed on the squad.

“It can get very awkward at times, especially right when Arturo left, but I must say it really isn’t that bad at all,” Joshua Rosen said, “Everyone is very nice and I like the team a lot.”

Cheerleading has always consisted of a bunch of females lifting each other in the air, doing combinations of dances, shouting out cheers for their basketball or football school teams during games. However, Massapequa is now taking part in a trend that many other schools across the nation and colleges as well, have already begun.

play of the Cowboys in December.

NFC South M y P l a y o ff Pick: Saints The Saints have been the clearcut favorite for this division after they Source: als-ny.org mopped the floor with the Giants and their top rated defense in Week 6.

Drew Brees and Marques Colston have become a lethal duo and Pierre Thomas has become a top rusher.

NFC North My Playoff Pick: Vikings (Division) Packers (Wild Card) Brett Favre has silenced the critics.

With the interceptions under control, Brett Favre has proven he has some game left in him. Adrian Peterson has also put up impressive numbers and looks to lead the Vikings to a playoff spot. Aaron Rodgers seems to have filled the shoes of Brett Favre quite well.

The Packers have a tough road ahead of them with games against the Steelers, and Cardinals.

NFC West My Playoff Pick: Cardinals The defending NFC Champion Cardinals have picked up where they left off last year with a dangerous passing attack led by the timeless Kurt Warner.

Tim Hightower and Chris “Beanie” Wells have created a dynamic backfield for the Cardinals.

Various competitive teams have already implemented the idea of having guys on their squads.

“I think that they [boys] are a big help to the team and it shows that cheerleading isn’t just a girl sport. Guys can also get involved. Cheerleading takes a lot of strength and having the guys is a big help,” said cheerleader Brittany Caiafa.

In other words, the cheerleading team with the addition of a guy has vastly improved, and Rosen has been a big addition to the squad.

“Mostly, it’s really difSource: facebook.com ferent to have a male voice – on the sidelines. He brings a whole other side of the student body to our team,” said Lynn Horowitz. Therefore, it’s clear that the male presence on the team has caused great change, and this change is for the better.

“I must say that being the first male cheerleader at MHS is pretty awesome,” Rosen said. Male students at Massapequa High School will now be able to try out for the Cheerleading squad in all upcoming years at MHS.