November/December 2007

SPOOKS and SPIRIT

Spirit Week! Halloween! Clubs, clubs, and more clubs!

NEWS CABARET NIGHT, PAGE 3 EDITORIAL ARE WE SAFE? PAGE 4 HUMOR VADER VS. VOLDEMORT, PAGE 14

Massapequa High School

NOV. - DEC., 2007

mhsthechief@yahoo.com

Vol. LVI - ISSUE 2

Rumors Run Rampant

Principal gives the straight-up truth about speculated threats at MHS

BY JAMIE DeFILIPPIS ENTERTAINMENT EDITOR

He said, she said—the foundation on which high school is built.

Rumors. Sometimes they can be intriguing, but in certain cases they can have more serious ramifications.

Due to recent talk of a possible bomb or gun threat to Massapequa High School, The Chief decided to get down to the bottom of things and hear the truth from a reliable source.

JD: What was the origin of the rumors?

Dr. G: There was an argument between two students and in the heat of the argument one student said something about coming back and blowing up the school with that person in it. It was fully investigated with the deans and pupil personnel.

About a week later [Thursday of the next week] some kids came to me and asked if I had heard about the argument between the two boys and what had been said. I said I had and that I was very glad that they came to me, that they did the right thing, and that we were aware. By Friday, it kind of became a game of telephone... people changing the story and whatnot. That’s why I got on the P.A. on Tuesday.

JD: Why did you wait so long to inform students and parents of the situation and what was the reaction?

Dr. G: I’m sorry it was a threeday weekend; I wish it had been a two-day weekend. I gave as much information as I could. I’m hoping everyone heard what I had to say.

Then, I sent a letter home, and it went on the web yesterday [Monday, November 12]. We’ve been getting a lot of calls from parents, but they are good calls. We got a lot of calls just informing us of what they had heard, which is good because we want people to tell us what they hear so we can respond to it. We also got a lot of calls asking what happened and what we’re doing about it.

JD: How many people were accused?

Dr. G: To be very honest, this was an incident between two kids.

So it’s really one kid [who was accused]. Some people did say ‘Oh well did you talk to this kid, and did you talk to that kid?’ We talked to a lot of kids. We followed up on any other information that people gave us and followed all the right procedures.

But do you know what a lot of it was?

A lot of it was just people speculating and that’s how it all crumbled.

JD: When did you get notice of the so-called “threat?”

Dr. G: The actual occurrence was about the last week in October.

Like any other disciplinary manner, it was handled. And since there wasn’t deemed to be a credible threat there was no reason to say anything.

This wasn’t a “threat.” So when people started the whole rumor mill we knew we’d have to try to put this to rest.

JD: Was it a bomb or a gun?

Dr. G: The reference was to “blow up” the school.

JD: I heard there was some kind of violence assessment given.

Can you elaborate?

Students vs. “Staph”

BY TARA BRAILEY STAFF WRITER

Schools statewide are taking action to become more sanitary and are placing increased emphasis on the importance of hygiene in wake of the recent cases of the MRSA “staph” infection in the area.

This antibiotic-resistant bacterial strain has appeared in schools in both Nassau and Suffolk counties, influencing many to become more concerned about its spread and its possible effects.

The bacterium responsible for the infection, staphylococcus aureus, lives on the skin and in the nose of millions

of people who unknowingly carry it.

According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, infections involving the skin, blood, bones, and lungs are possible. Rashes, pimples, boils, abscesses, swelling, pus, and pain are all symptoms of MSRA that can worsen into the infection if not recognized and treated immediately.

The strain has also besource: www.elmbridge.gov come more resistant to a range of antibiotics,

Dr. G: There are several things that went into play. We conducted “a violence assessment” and it was determined to be “an excited utterance,” something said in the heat of the moment. Then we did an investigation in conjunction with the police.

Anything like this we take very seri-

Anything could happen anywhere, so we do our best. That’s why we have drills and an emergency team; we also have plans in place to cover all these different scenarios. It’s a sad fact of life that we have to practice for things like this. Did you ever notice that all the classroom doors lock once you shut them? That’s why.

JD: Final quote?

Dr. G: If you hear something say something. I’m very pleased that everyone felt comfortable enough to tell an adult that they had heard something. I think everyone should be assured that we take MAX SPARR // THE CHIEF things like this seriously. There was no plan to back it ously, and we investigate them fully. up or even any thought to actually do Everyone’s safety is our first priority. anything like that. Sometimes people 2,300 people: it’s a big responsibility. say things and then regret it once it’s **************************** been said.

According to attendance JD: What procedures would be office personnel, over 300 students taken if there was a credible threat were absent on Thursday Novemto the building? ber 15, yet on an average school Dr. G: We would evacuate the day approximately 90 students are building, we’d have the police come absent. Obviously fears were high in, and we’d search the building. and students were influenced by JD: Will there be police in the rumors, despite the efforts taken by building tomorrow? (11/15) administration.

Dr. G: We’ve heightened secuHigh school can be rough, rity for tomorrow. I would like to and a lot of times there may be too keep the specifics with us for now. much on our minds to think straight JD: How does it make you feel or handle things in a mature manner. knowing that something like this But it’s important to keep in mind could happen at MHS? that rumors of this nature do need Dr. G: As a principal, it’s nerve to be taken seriously and brought racking every time you hear about to a trusted adult, rather than your something like this happening. “bff.”

though it is still treatable and curable.

Its existence on Long Island has prompted both counties, and numerous school districts, to hold health summits on how to battle and avoid the MRSA infection. Students are constantly reminded to wash their hands and avoid sharing personal belongings, especially in the sports setting, in which many of the cases are believed to have originated. Schools are doing their best to decrease the chances of contracting MRSA through public meetings, memos to parents, and even simple reminders to children in the classroom.

“Thankfully, we do not have any known cases in our schools.

However, for your information, transmission could result from direct skin to skin contact with infected persons and could also result from contact with contaminated items such as towels, clothing, and uniforms,” said Charles Sulc, Acting Superintendent of the Massapequa School District, in a letter to parents, faulty, coaches, and staff.

Despite the absence of MRSA cases in Massapequa, the district still is still doing all it can to ensure sanitary conditions and prevent people from contacting the bacterium. Recently, automatic Purell hand sanitizer dispensers were installed in the high school locker continued on page 2

NEWS

NOV. - DEC. 2007

Around the World in Three Minutes

BY ANGELA ROAMER NEWS EDITOR

SAN DIEGO, CALIFORNIAThis past October, wildfires have caused at least one billion dollars in damage in Southern California.

According to CNN, the fires have destroyed more than 1,000 homes and left tens of thousands of homes without electricity. President Bush declared these areas disaster areas, opening the door for federal dollars to help those businesses, governments and people affected by the fires.

AMSTERDAM, HOLLANDHolland’s cheap, organic, and internationally known mushroom legality could soon be over. According to Newsweek, the Dutch health minister proposed a total ban on the sale of hallucinogenic mushrooms in the Netherlands. Also, a countrywide smoking ban including marijuana will take effect in July 2008, effecting the local coffee shops that sell it.

The ban could end the culture that has been flourising in Holland since the mid-90’s.

CARACAS, VENEZUELAstudents at a local university protested against constitutional reforms that could possibly allow President Hugo Chavez a chance for re-election. MSNBC says Students fear that

civil liberties will be undermined by this. Venezuela’s National Assembly is mostly dominated by Chavez supporters and is on the brink of approving 67 constitutional amendments, including control over the government bank and extending the presidential term from 6 to 7 years with re-election allowed. Before reforms can take place, voters must approve them in December.

PATHARGHATA, BANGLADESH- On Thursday, November 15, cyclone Sidr swept across the southwestern coast of Bangladesh.

As reported by USA Today, the cyclone’s rain and 4-foot storm surge flooded low-lying land and off shore islands. Local government officials and witnesses said the cyclone flattened thousands of straw and mud huts, uprooted trees and telephone poles, and destroyed crops and fish farms in 15 coastal districts. MSNBC states that more than 1,300 people have perished in the cyclone and that number is expected to rise.

THE CHIEF

Campus Safety In recent weeks, there have been four incidents where people were mugged at Stony Brook College, one occurring as recently as November 14. As a result of these assaults, many high school students and their parents are wondering about their safety on college campuses.

“I am unsure that colleges have enough man power in their security to protect our children at school,” said one parent preparing to send two of his children away to school.

Contrary to parents’ feelings, some students feel that they can rely on security to keep them safe on campus.

“This doesn’t scare me as much as it would my parents,” said James Bantel, a college student who is planning on transferring to Stony Brook next year. “I feel that to a certain point, you should be able to

trust security.”

“Giving aid to people that live on campus would be beneficial,” said Elizabeth Dombal, a senior at Massapequa High School. “Giving students warning and information about a school and it’s surroundings can help them and teach them to be more aware of their surroundings; this can help keep students safe and keep the crime rate down.”

The Jeanne Clery Act is a federal law that requires crime and security awareness on school campuses. The law demands that every college campus have a good security system with surveillance and guards protecting the schools, the campuses, and the students. The law also states, “schools must publish an annual report disclosing campus security policies and three years worth of selected crime statistics.”

It’s an unfortunate fact that schools aren’t exempt from violence; however, awareness is key to staying safe no matter where you are.

athlete at Massapequa High School.

“It is important that everyone takes rooms and throughout the halls of precautions to keep themselves safe the middle school. and healthy.”

“Its good that the Purell Most people are trying to be dispensers have been installed,” as sanitary as possible, both in and said Melanie Saitta, a student and out of school. The MRSA infection

can be deadly, so many are taking the extra warnings seriously, by frequently washing their hands and following through with hygienically sound behaviors that the Center for Disease Control and Prevention advises.

BY SAMANATHA LANGLOIS JOURNALISM STUDENT

Staph continued from page 1

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NEWS

NOV. - DEC. 2007

THE CHIEF

Massapequa’s Got Talent!

It’s Party Time!

with “Song of Purple Summer,” “Hey there Delilah” by Adam Birke, a tribute to Mrs. Greene and Mrs. “You’ve Got a Friend in Me” by On November 10, Massapequa Dempsey performed by a large en- Justin Lieberman, and “Don’t Wanna High School hosted its annual semble of seniors.

Miss a Thing” by Megan Hartman.

“Cabaret Night” in the upper The Rent duet “Take me or gym. Great music, great hosts, Leave me” sung by Samantha baked goods—what more could Langlois and Jenna Briedis reone ask for? ally brought down the house.

The night was filled with The last act of the night many amazing performances by was senior Katie Hoffmann, the usual talent, including Lauren singing “Gimme Gimme” Morlock, John Oliveri, Krisfrom Thoroughly Modern Milten Dacunto, Megan Hartman, lie; this very talented singer Katie Hoffman, and the band ended the night in good spirContrast. There were also some its. new faces—Ryan Coyle, Devon Congratulations to each Stolfi, and Nicole Filosa to name Edwin Maldonado “drifts away.” PHOTO BY DIANA DIGANGI of the performers, and espea few—who equally impressed the After a brief intermission, Act cially to the graduating senior class audience with their talent.

Two started off with Edwin Mal- for really leaving its mark on the high Throughout act one, perfor- donado and band Contrast getting school music scene. Sometimes, it mances ranged from “Blackbird” by the whole crowd going with their seems that the talent at Massapequa the Beatles to “It Takes Two” from rendition of “Drift Away.” Then, the High School is endless.

Hairspray. The first half concluded audience was treated to songs such as

BY ALYSSA NAPOLITANO STAFF WRITER

DWI Laws Revisited

BY BRITTANEE FRIEDMAN JOURNALISM STUDENT

Imagine saying goodbye to a loved one, a friend or family member, every thirty minutes. According to a 2006 MADD (Mothers Against Drunk Driving) statistic, 17,602 people died in alcohol-related traffic crashes that year, an estimated 41 percent of traffic fatalities.

Beginning November 1, new laws of aggravated vehicular assault and aggravated vehicular manslaughter were enacted in an attempt to deter drunken driving and create harsher penalties for those who are arrested.

Probation officer Cheryl Friedman hopes the new legislature put into effect in Nassau will make someone “think twice before driving drunk if they are aware of the harsher punishments,” that will increase certain penalties and create crimes of aggravated DWI (driving while intoxicated).

Officer Friedman explained that of all her cases, approximately 30 percent of them deal with drunk driving and its consequences. These

cases range from DWI crimes, to the deaths caused by it. “Being killed while driving drunk or by drunk drivers really is a senseless loss of life,” Officer Friedman said.

At any given time, a teenager somewhere on Long Island could be guilty of driving recklessly, but how will this new legislation affect Massapequa High School students?

According to one senior at MHS, drunk driving is not even an issue. The student said, “Kids are responsible. Even when we drink, we make sure there is someone who is sober to drive us home. We’re not as dumb as everyone makes us out to be.”

“It’s all about responsibility and choices,” senior Jamie Blum said. “It’s about growing up and putting together the right and wrong enforced by your parents. It starts out as a hangover, as a ‘just this once’ – and then ends up on front page news.”

Until everyone assumes that kind of responsibility, aggravated DWI laws remain as a deterrent to help keep the roads safe.

Gas and Oil Prices Hit All-Time High

BY BRIAN SKUZA

JOURNALISM STUDENT

The pumps are showing no love. Gasoline prices are continuing to rise, and showing no chance of letting up. Along with the increase of gasoline prices, oil prices are cutting close to the $100 per barrel mark.

Gasoline prices are becoming an annoying problem for commuters. The objective for some commuters now is to find the gasoline station with the lowest prices.

This includes morning call-outs of gasoline stations with low prices on

radio stations. If you search “Long Island Gasoline Prices” on www. google.com you can find websites that list and give directions to the gasoline stations with the lowest gasoline prices.

The American Automobile Association took a survey revealing that gasoline averaged $3.152, 14.1 cents less than a week earlier, and 27.3 cents than a month earlier in Nassau and Suffolk County.

It is projected by gasoline stations like Hess and Mobile that

BY ANGELA ROAMER NEWS EDITOR

On October 30, 2007, Massapequa High School students enrolled in the Prep 2 program planned a Halloween party for three classes of autistic children from East Lake Elementary School.

The high school students created invitations and planned fun party stations for the younger kids. They shopped for decorations, baked cookies in bakeshop and created woodcrafts in woodshop for the kids to paint.

Overall, the party was a great learning experience for everyone. The high school students got a lesson in teaching, cooking, woodworking and party planning, all while having fun and doing community service.

Three Teens Die in Car Crash

BY MAX SPARR PHOTO EDITOR

According to the New York State DMV, “A junior driver cannot operate a vehicle that has more than two passengers who are under the age of 21 unless a parent, a guardian, or a driving instructor also rides in the vehicle. There is an exception to this rule if the passengers are immediate family members.” Apparently 17 year old Smithtown High School student Steven Badkedid not know that.

On Wednesday October 31, when three Smithtown students decided to abuse their open campus priveleges by driving illegally, it ended in a tragic way. When driver Steven Badke crossed over into oncoming traffic and smashed his Honda Civic into 48 year old June Aruanno’s white minivan, his two friends, Michael Western, 17 and Daniel DiStefano, 17 were propelled out of the car and pronounced dead at the scene. The crash not only killed the two Smithtown High School students, but also claimed the life of 13 year old John Aruanno, the passenger in his mother’s minivan. Badke was issued a summons prices will most likely hit the $4 mark by the winter holidays.

Oil prices have been nearing the $100 mark, reaching a total of $98.62 per barrel on November 6 according to Newsday.

Local citizens all agree on the fact that this is going to be a difficult winter having to deal with the rise in gasoline and oil prices. MHS English teacher, Mrs. Curiale thinks that the skyrocketing prices change more than the lives of commuting citizens. “It’s not just the price we

for driving illegally with a Junior License. Smithtown High School administration has since revoked its open campus privileges.

Here at MHS, students also enjoy open campus privileges, mainly because the school simply does not have the physical space to house all the students. Principal, Dr. James Grossane feels that if we had the facilities, he would consider taking away the open campus rights for younger grades.

“I feel that closing down the campus for all students, may not be the right idea,” reported Dr. Grossane adding “I am confident with the current policy for the main reason that seniors who park on campus cannot leave,” as they did at Smithtown High School.

Although he addressed the fact that some students park off campus and do leave during the day, he still feels safe knowing that they will be careful. In addition, he hopes that with the renovations to the cafeteria at MHS more students will be encouraged to stay in for lunch, especially on days with inclement weather.

pay at the pump that affects us- the rising gas prices affect everything.

There are hidden gas costs such as shipping involved in most goods and services, so there’s a ripple effect for us, the consumers.”

However, we should not keep a closed mind on the matter.

Senior Fred Bastien takes an optimistic view to the situation: “It’s a good thing. If gas prices go up, we’re helping to conserve the world’s resources. It means less people are going to buy it.”

NOV. - DEC. 2007

EDITORIAL

OP/ED too have little to no protection from violence.

Virtually anyone can walk in charge of overseeing the flow of into MHS in between lunch periods. individuals into and out of the build- With a huge mob of students entering. Under normal circumstances ing through three different doors, it this is fine. However, if a threatening would be easy for a trespasser to pass person were to enter the building, the by unnoticed. Also, students from odds are that she would be unable to other schools can easily enter the prevent his or her entrance. In fact, building in between periods. It’s not during first period on November uncommon for students to see their 15—the day of the bomb threat— friends who attend Catholic school two Chief editors were able to leave roaming the MHS halls on their days the building and re-enter without off. It would be impossible for hall monitors to know the face of every single student at the high school, so a student from another school would fit right in.

In contrast, at Ames, upperclassmen cannot even get past the front door without being heavily quesANGELA ROAMER // THE CHIEF tioned. Using ID cards being questioned; they continued on could come in handy in situations their way after receiving only a brief like these; a system like the subway, glance from a hall monitor. Teachers where everyone has to swipe his or who have hall duty on the first floor her ID card to get into the building, near school entrances are in the same would be perhaps the most effective position as other hall monitors; they way to maintain a secure environ-

“Just how safe are we?”

With the recent spread of rumors regarding impending bomb and gun threats at Massapequa High School, many are asking a very valid question: just how safe are we at school?

High schools all over the world are subject to violence. Luckily, Massapequa High School is a relatively peaceful learning environment, and most students are able to coexist with little difficulty. However, it is still important that we take school security seriously.

Overall, security at Massapequa High School seems to be lacking. Although students have ID cards with barcodes, these currently have little purpose; rarely, if ever, are students asked to show them. In other Long Island schools such as Long Beach High School, students are required to show such ID cards when entering the cafeteria and library for safety.

Also, the lack of security at the entrances of the school is not very reassuring. Near the main lobby, there is typically one woman

A Letter to the Editor - The Future of Halloween Dear Editor, As a concerned group of students, we are writing in hopes that something can be done about the racy costumes worn in school [on Halloween]. Some of the costumes we find particularly offensive are… nurses, maids, policewomen, sailors, and fairy tale characters. All of these costumes have extremely short skirts and bear a lot of skin. Is it right to wear such outfits in a place of learning?

We find it odious that girls are running around school showing parts of their bodies that we neither need nor want to see. Many of the girls in our school have no other choice but to make their own costumes, because the local stores do not carry much variety in their stock. Some still buy the skimpy costumes that are sold and wear leggings under them to stay covered, but is not practical to keep buying new clothing that will only be worn on one occasion. We have found that the costumes retail stores offer are either too short to the point where they become distasteful instead of cute, or they are so long that we can easily trip over them. If stores would just add a few more inches to the bottom of the outfits they sell, they would be perfectly acceptable to wear in a school setting. And, if a customer wanted to shorten the skirt all they would have to do is take out a scissor and cut off the excess material from the bottom.

One of the girls in our group

is on the skinny side of what most not wearing a shirt, and yet he was girls our age are, and she was forced not penalized for his outfit. Another to buy a costume that was a larger kid was only wearing boxers and a size than normal because every year sheet, which he used to drape over the costumes become smaller. What his shoulders and make a toga. At message does this send to young girls one point during the day, he could who look up to older high school not fix his outfit and walked around students? Companies are showing for the remainder of the day with his preteens that in order to look cute whole body exposed. He too was not they have to be skinny to the point approached or asked to change his where it is not healthy. outfit because he was a male. If a girl Also, it had shown up to school seems as if comwearing either of these panies are startoutfits she would have ing to sell sex been forced to change. appeal instead What makes our school of costumes. rules fair if they do not For example, apply to both men and shouldn’t the women? girls’ softball Please keep in costumes feamind that we are not ture a model hitlooking to do away ting or catching with Halloween cosa softball rather tumes or to take the fun than posing with out of this holiday; we source: dpedrosa.blogspot.com her finger in her just want to make sure mouth and with her body in a pro- that every student feels comfortable vocative stance? Something needs to while they are trying to learn. At be done about these problems, and times costumes can be distracting, girls aren’t the only ones guilty of and a day of learning can go to waste these crimes. because of the lack of attention a During Halloween some teacher receives from his/her class. males try to get a laugh out of others With a few simple changes, we are by dressing up as women and giv- sure students can find a way to enjoy ing themselves voluptuous curves, celebrating with costumes that cover makeup, and long hair, but some- while still feeling that they look cute, times these costumes go overboard. funny, or even gory.

One student came to school wearing Sincerely, only a pair of boxers, a see through Conservatively Covered Cuties* grass skirt, and body paint. He was *names withheld by request

THE CHIEF

ment. However, the disadvantages of such a system cannot be overlooked: such technology would be extremely expensive, and it would result long lines to enter the building.

While our security system does have some faults, it also has its strengths. For example, any car that wishes to enter the parking lot during school hours is stopped by security.

Also, Massapequa High School does have hidden cameras, which allow the school to identify anything or anybody out of the ordinary.

People may argue that Massapequa is a relatively safe town and thus does not need tight security.

While the editors of The Chief do agree that MHS is, for the most part, a safe environment, it is still important to make sure our school is prepared for any and all emergency situations.

Despite any threats that may exist to MHS students and faculty, it is necessary to take precautions as a form of prevention. While our security measures have worked thus far, their flaws must be fixed to ensure maximum safety for both today’s and future generations.

The Chief Editorial Staff EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Chris Ryan MANAGING EDITOR Mohit Chhatpar SPORTS EDITOR Matt Frank PHOTO EDITOR Max Sparr HEAD COPY EDITOR Courtney Sullivan BUSINESS MANAGER Megan Cohen OPINION EDITOR Charlotte Burger NEWS EDITOR Angela Roamer ENTERTAINMENT EDITOR Jamie DeFilippis FEATURES EDITOR Marissa Cetin GRAPHICS DESIGNER T.J. Kelly COPY EDITORS Stephanie Post Lisa Totino Caitlin Waldron ADVISER Elyn Coyle

OP/ED

NOV. - DEC. 2007

The Saturday Test

BY CHARLOTTE BURGER OPINION EDITOR

What is the best way to spend a Saturday morning? Taking the SAT, of course! I mean, after all, the name of the test spells out the abbreviated name of the day you are taking it.

What could be more exhilarating than that?

Okay, so I lied. Sitting for close to four hours for an exam is the last thing you want to be doing on a Saturday morning.

According to CollegeBoard, the distributor of the exam, the SAT (Scholastic Aptitude Test) is a “reasoning test.” It consists of math, reading, and writing sections, and its purpose is to test analytical and problem solving skills that were taught in school and are “necessary” for college. There is also one experimental section, which does not count towards students’ scores. CollegeBoard uses this section to help it revise its tests to ensure fairness.

I beg to differ. The last word I would associate with the SAT is “fair”. As documented on www.fairtest.org, studies have proven that the test is biased in regards to gender, race, and wealth. Males are typically better at guessing than females. This is unfair on the SAT as nine out of ten sections are in multiple-choice format and can involve guessing if one or more multiple choice answers can be eliminated.

Further evidence stated by www.fairtest.org is that the SAT is gender biased because females tend to do better in school than males, but worse than males on the SAT. The topics on the test can serve as a disadvantage to different ethnic groups.

People of different ethnic groups might not be familiar with certain topics as a result of different cultural practices and values. Although SAT prep courses can coach students towards the SAT and can raise scores by more than 100 points, students who cannot afford these courses are at a disadvantage.

So how do these disadvan-

THE CHIEF

Should the Internet Be Banned?

BY KATIE FUCCILLO STAFF WRITER

At the sight of this article, you probably thought of your beloved MySpace and exclaimed, “NO! It shouldn’t be regulated!”

However, consider the dangers the Internet contains. Terrorists acquire information about how to make their explosives and other weapons through the Internet. Depressed people use suicidal websites to facilitate the ending of their lives; many would never have been able to take the final step without the influence of “how-to guides” posted on these sites. Countless minors end up emotionally scarred for the rest of their lives after being stalked or abused by predators.

Weight-conscious girls visit sites that promote eating disorders and hold sadistic “contests” to promote skinniness. Though the Internet offers source: www.collegeboard.com the opportunity to chat, play games, tages play out? Most schools accept and e-mail, are these things worth students within a certain range of the threat to humanity?

SAT scores. However, if a student’s scores fall outside of that range it does not necessarily mean the college will not accept him or her. While some schools take SAT scores to eliminate applicants, many others care much more about a student’s high school transcript and extra curricular activities, such as after school clubs, volunteering, and jobs. source: www.myspace.com Where does this leave students? Since we need to take the SAT Some may argue that we for college, it is to our own advan- have the right to say what we want tage to try our best on the test. But to on the Internet. The First Amendfor now, we must accept its inequity ment of the Constitution grants us the and hope for the best. right to freedom of speech and press.

However, freedom of speech cannot exist when it threatens someone’s life. If the Internet were regulated

more, websites promoting negative behaviors such as suicide and anorexia could be shutdown. Furthermore, websites targeted to harass and demean a person—a practice common among teenagers—can be blocked.

Others also agree that the Internet should be regulated to an extent. Carissa Allen, a junior at Massapequa High School, says, “The internet should have regulations because there are a lot of people in our society that have intentions of doing bad things on the Internet. If there are restrictions placed on the accessibility of making or using websites, then the amount of harm done by these people will be limited.”

Even if the government wanted to regulate the Internet, how could it possibly be done? The Internet can be compared to the Wild West, where laws for protection were loosely enforced, and people virtually did as they pleased. The same goes for the Internet; while there are laws protecting us against hacking and cyber-stalking, it is near impossible to prove who the person behind the screen-name is. Laws could easily be passed to regulate websites, but computer fanatics would undoubtedly find a way around them.

Therefore, it is up to us to regulate the Internet for ourselves.

We must try our best to avoid websites that promote eating disorders or suicide; we must avoid giving out extensive information to strangers in chat-rooms. This way, we can protect ourselves from the dangers the Internet possess. However, if we do not regulate our own actions, then the government will have to for us.

Oh, That’s Due Today?

One Senior’s Tale of Applications, Essays, and Long Nights

BY MEAGHAN VEHLIES STAFF WRITER

As I sit at my desk, staring down at what seems to be thousands of essays, I ask myself, “How did I end up here?”

Well, the answer is simple: obviously, my priorities were not straight. But honestly, who wants to waste a summer’s night researching colleges when they could be at the beach? Not me, so that’s exactly what I didn’t do. Instead of going to colleges, I went to the movies.

Instead of having meetings, I met with friends. And instead of making decisions, I decided to sleep my summer away.

So now, with college applications down to the wire, that old familiar sickly-nervous feeling is

back once again. You know, the one you get after pulling an all nighter and your printer breaks 15 minutes before school starts. The one you get when you don’t know if there is enough time in the world to finish all the things you have to do. Plus, on top of all the applications and essays, we still have senior year to deal with, which is enough in itself.

So as I sit at my desk, fighting back tears, I begin to wonder if I am alone in this feeling. However, just by glancing at my peers, I know I am not. I mean, even the surest people have to be nervous.

But what happens to those who aren’t so sure? What happens when the career you wanted your whole life suddenly turns into the farthest thing you could want? What happens when that dream college you wanted seems a little too out of reach? What do people do, when they

don’t know what to do? I mean, how can you decide the rest of your life in a few months?

The answer to this is easy.

Don’t. Who says the major you pick or the career you choose is the rest of your life? Through this whole college process I’ve learned that it’s ok to be unsure. It’s ok to be confused, or doubtful. And it’s ok to change your mind.

Just make sure you do what you want to do. A friend of mine wants to major in the performing arts; meanwhile, everyone around him is telling him he can’t, and that it is too unrealistic a goal. All he needs is someone to tell him that he can. Why should he forgo his dreams because they do not fit someone else’s expectations of a career?

Maybe you want to be an artist, or a veterinarian, or an actress. But, just because your dreams don’t fit into

the rulebook some people live by, it doesn’t mean that you shouldn’t pursue them. It just means that you should work harder to prove them wrong. No one should be able to define your life but you.

As for these applications, congrats to those who have finished them, because I haven’t even started.

Not that I don’t want to do them, because believe me, I love writing papers which determine my future.

It’s just that my procrastinating self tends to take over when anything important is involved (i.e. homework, scholarship essays, essays in general). However, they will get done.

So, to all you unsure, nervous and procrastinating seniors out there: relax. Remember- “We’re all in this together”. I just quoted High School Musical. Obviously a sign to end this article, which I think I’ll do right now.

NOV. - DEC. 2007

Dance is a Sport

OP/ED

sport is an activity that is governed by a set of rules or customs and Students that attend Mass- often engaged in competitively. apequa High School aren’t shy to Sports commonly refer to activities the term “sport” and what a sport where the physical capabilities of the is. Students may have their own competitor are the sole or primary definition of what a sport is or determiner of the outcome (winning what qualifies something to or losing). be a sport, but over all Dance is and always has been they are all very a sport. Being a dancer for the majorsimilar. A ity of my life, has more than qualified me to write an argumentitive article proving what I have argued many times before. I have been dancing since the age of two, competitively since the age of eight. I have spent more time at my studio then I have at school, and probably just as much time as I do home. Between rehearsals and classes, it’s a huge commitment. You have to be in top physical shape in order to progress. This means working your butt off every minute you’re there.

BY DAVID TROMPETER T h e r e STAFF WRITER are no “rules” Wikipedia defines sport as in dance, but a “a physical activity that is govthey are unerned by a set of rules or customs derstood. and often engaged in competitively.”

T h e y One of the first records of sports was come in the empire of Ancient Greece.

Different events such as sprints, marathons, wrestling, javelin, and injuries. discus were first used in the ancient ParticiOlympics, on which the present is p a n t s o f professional based.

Where does dance lie? Right and even high off the bat, dance contradicts the s c h o o l l e v e l definition of a sport. Dance has sports have enno rules or regulations, leaving its dured every type of participants to do whatever they injury known to man please. With no set regulations there and even discovered is no even playing field, and even in some new ones in the circumstances where there is a set of process. From a torn ACL, rules, say a dance competition, there to a fractured fibula, and even is no clear winner or loser. The out- a ruptured spleen, the injuries come is decided by judges, making experienced by athletes in the duration of a sport are much more the process arbitrational.

People who oppose my opin- severe than the injuries of dance.

How would I know what ion may argue that dance takes training, ability, and strength. That is true, injuries dancers have had? Well, I but similar characteristics can be don’t see many of the female stuattributed to a sculptor who spends dents of Massapequa High School years building his masterpiece out of on crutches, wearing a sling, or even a slab of rock. Dance, like sculpting in a wheelchair from dance injuries. is an art, not a sport. Calling a dance I have a torn labrum, an injury that a sport would mean other arts, such will never heal on its own and I will as painting, drawing, and music, never regain full strength without would have to be considered sports surgery. This injury occurred in the true sport of football, and I doubt it as well.

Those who oppose me may would occur in the so-called “sport” say that I should not judge; that I of dance.

A final difference know of dance or any of the arts. To that I would respond that there is no between the art of dance and proof that dance takes athletic ability the sports world is the fact and hard work, and since I have wit- of winning and losing. If you nessed, firsthand, the toil of members put an Irish step dancer and a of real sports, such as basketball and professional ballet dancer in football, as well as people who are a room together who wins? artists, or dancers, or musicians, I can They are both dancing, but say there are many different charac- is there a clear winner and teristics. One example would be loser? In a sport there is

BY TEDDY FATSCHER STAFF WRITER

art, or is it more than that?

Is dance a sport? This question has gone through every dancers mind at some time or another, but I bet they all say the same thing: yes.

And they don’t say ‘yes’ because they’re biased. They say ‘yes’ because it is true.

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T IN PO ER NT OU T/C IN PO

in the form of technique, and are stricter then any rules you can think of. Technique is everything in dance; with lousy technique comes a lousy dancer. This makes one strive for perfection. Just like a basketball player who finds a net and just shoots for an hour or two, dancers find a mirror or a bar and work on their turnout or their turns. And, unlike other sports, dance is a year-long comittment. No matter how inclimate the weather, dancers are always in that dance studio!

Injuries in dance may not be as severe as those you may see in football or lacrosse, but injuries should not be the basis on which to judge whether something is a sport or not. Broken backs and herniated discs are not prevelant in dance because it’s not customary for dancers to line up on either side of the stage and run into each other as hard as they can. I don’t see fractured vertebrae in golf—better yet, I don’t see any injuries in golf. Injuries can and do happen in dance, but a main goal of dance is flexibility. This comes from stretching all the time. So, the fact that serious injuries don’t occur all the time in dance doesn’t necessarily make it any less of a sport; it just makes it a less of a dangerous sport.

Dance is an art, and yes, it does require artistic creativity.

However, that doesn’t make it just an art. To all you soccer players out there: when you’re playing and you need to get past an opposing player with the ball, do you dribble right into them or use some sort of move to fake them out? See, all sports we know require some level of artistic creativity.

Think about it: is dance just an

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Dance is Not a Sport

one clear winner and one disheartened loser. There are no in betweens or disputed grounds.

Because dance does not have a set of rules that apply to the whole, does not have a clear winner or loser, and does not require the risk of life threatening injury, dance is not a sport.

BY MARISSA CETIN FEATURES EDITOR

The Webster’s New World College Dictionary defines the word sport as “any activity or experience that gives enjoyment or recreation,” and “an activity, [usually] competitive, requiring more vigorous bodily exertion, and carried on, sometimes as a profession, according to some traditional form or set of rules.” Well, my friends, that is exactly what the sport of dance is.

Let’s start off with the first part of this definition: “any activity or experience that gives enjoyment or recreation.” I think we can all agree that people take dance classes to have fun, and keep their bodies healthy and active.

Now, the next part of the definition: “an activity, [usually] competitive, requiring more vigorous bodily exertion, and carried on, sometimes as a profession, according to some traditional form or set of rules.” I’ll hold off on the competitive aspect for now, but as for the “vigorous bodily exertion,” as a dancer, I can definitely vouch for that. Dance requires leg strength to successfully execute powerful leaps and other various jumps; also, abdominal, back and arm strength is essential for balance.

Even simply standing in proper form for ballet is no easy feat.

The concentration necessary for even the most basic of moves borders on the extreme. My Romanian ballet teacher (accent and all!) especially likes to use the image of pulling a string from the top of the head in order to keep the chin up and create the illusion of a lengthened body.

And don’t forget: you have to look graceful!

To dance at a more advanced level, incredible athleticism is required. A dancer must be very strong to have powerful leaps and jumps, and it is especially important that a dancer also be flexible in order to make the motions of dance look fluid and effortless.

In its September 2007 issue, Dance Spirit magazine conducted an experiment in which they took a group of professional level dancers and athletes and placed them against continued on page 7

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NOV. - DEC. 2007

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Another View continued from page 6 each other in five challenges to test lung capacity, coordination, balance, and agility of the participants. Using hurdles and an obstacle course, both the creativity and physical ability of the people was put to the test. The dancers came out on top, doubling the athlete’s score and proving that dancers are more adaptable to different situations, stresses and conditions. Dancers are as, if not more, athletic than athletes.

As for injuries, there is opportunity to hurt oneself anywhere, while walking, sprinting, or leaping. I have experienced numerous sprained ankles, the most serious restricting me from walking for a couple days. I have fallen infinite times, where I could have just as easily injured myself. While I seem to be lucky; several dancers at my dance studio have broken ankles, causing great pain and preventing them from dancing for the majority of the year.

I am not saying that dancers are the only ones who get injuries, because anyone can acquire one, but it does happen. Frequently and sadly, dancers’ careers have ended because they have snapped their Achilles tendon, worn out the joints in their hips, or have blown out their knees.

Now for the last part of the definition: “… carried on, sometimes as a profession, according to some traditional form or set of rules.” Well, of course there are professional dancers out there, just like professional athletes. They can be a member of a professional performance company and put on shows, appear in music videos as back up dancers, tour with musical acts, and perform at parties, among other things.

Finally, one of the most argued parts of dance is the competitiveness. Many question the rules and regulations of dance, and some question whether they even exist. The answer is yes. First of all, not all dancers choose to compete.

Competition teams are composed of dancers at a studio who are very dedicated and willing to put in tremendous effort to reach a new level of skill. Dances are taught to the dancers by the choreographers, rehearsed to the point of perfection, and then taken to a competition and performed on the stage in front of judges. The process is meticulous, long, and highly organized—similar to any lacrosse or soccer tournament found in the country.

And just as sports have na-

tional championships, dancers have nationals too. Here, the best dances from the regional competitions battle it out to see who is number one in dance.

However, if dancers choose not to be on these competition teams, which are reminiscent of travel or tournament sports teams because of the competition and commitment, many choose to dance recreationally, taking a couple of classes every week (much like intramurals sports). Some recreational classes are also offered at the more advanced levels. This allows a dancer, who may also like to play soccer, to have time to challenge him or herself in both arenas.

The age range is also broader for recreational dance than that of the competition leagues. I will be in a jazz technique class and across the hall many of my fellow dancer’s mothers will be taking a tap class.

So if you are still denying the fact that dance is a sport, I suggest tagging along with a friend that takes dance to her— or his (it’s far from uncommon to see male dancers) —class and trying it out. Hopefully you’ll change your mind. Perhaps you’ll remain stubborn. But, maybe you’ll discover a new sport you like—yes, the sport of dance.

Fashion Advice

BY KELLIE VEHLIES STAFF WRITER

Well, the seasons have changed, and along with the cold weather has come the need for a new fall and winter wardrobe. This year it’s all about color, according to Seventeen; bright pants, tops, accessories… everything! We all love jeans, but try mixing it up a bit with new colors and different shades.

Popular colors this year are grey, black, and indigo.

Along with the new colors have come some new cuts. We all have our favorite boot cut and lowrise jeans, but think about trying skinny jeans with heels or sneakers for an edgy look. Also, for a more sophisticated look, try wide-leg jeans with ballet flats.

All of our favorite celebs have also been spotted wearing high-waisted jeans.

The look this year is all about covering up—not showing more skin—so, pair jeans with a long

top and layers.

David Beckham or Jake Gllyenhaal; Lately, the vintage look has these guys know how to look combeen popular—the sixties and eight- fortable, but not as if they just rolled ies are back out of bed. with a venThink about geance! Teen what you put on in Vogue sugthe morning and try to gests wearmake your style your ing layered own. Mix it up a little; tops, vests, change up the band ballet flats, tees and wear differwide-leg ent jerseys. Oh, and to pants and all you guys who think long beaded you look “cool” with necklaces popped collars—think for a sixties again. hippie look. And don’t forget about Stay lovely everybody! your hair! A sleek and straight style paired with a skinny headband will complete your flower child look. In order to have a chic eighties look, try wearing a chunky knit sweater or dress for a comfy and cute outfit. Pair chunky knits with leggings and some slouchy suede boots, and you can go from the runway to the hallways in an instant.

A n d n o w, for the gentlemen, a source: www.fashion.about.com sleeker, more sophisticated look is Tight fitting pants. They’re cool and you popular. Think along the lines of know it!

Fashionably Yours

BY ALEX SCHILLACE STAFF WRITER

Clothing styles change from year to year, but the balance between being fashionable and adhering to the school dress code can be a bit tricky.

The forbidden styles seem to outweigh the permitted, thus expressing your own sense of style and individuality can be quite a challenge.

The Code of Conduct is not meant to stop people from being individuals; it just gives students a guideline for appropriate school attire. It has been proven in studies that there are behavioral changes associated with both dressing casually and dressing conservative.

Girls may feel more restricted with the school clothing codes. There is, however, always a way to have your own personal style while still following the rules. Short skirts, for instance, seem to be back in style. Considering skirts that are shorter than fingertip length are against the rules, girls should wear leggings. This is a win, win situation. It is conservative enough to follow the rules, but stylish enough to be appealing.

Leggings are comfortable, cost efficient, and designed for whatever style you are looking for.

Typically, guys dress more for comfort than fashion.

Baggy pants with visible boxers is still in style; while this poses a problem for a majority of the male population of the school, a nice compromise would be to invest in a few belts and longer shirts. This way, the style is preserved and teachers don’t have to waste time being the fashion police. Underwear, as stated in the word itself, should be worn under clothing, and should not be see while you are on school grounds.

We will still get an opportunity to see the array of boxers while driving down Merrick Road, or the skirt that could double as a head band, but when school is in session… it’s just better to wear the belts and leggings.

Underwear is meant to be worn UNDER clothes!

FEATURES

NOV. - DEC. 2007

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Clubs, Clubs, and More Clubs!

Peer AIDS

The club’s goal this year

BY MICHELLE LaMANTIA is to not only educate high school JOURNALISM STUDENT students, but the sixth graders as It’s another year at Mass- well. When asked if sixth graders apequa High School and another are mature enough to obtain informachance to join a club, but what is it tion on such a serious topic, Givenabout Peer AIDS that drew in over ter strongly agreed with educating 65 students this year? students at such a young age. “The Ethan Giventer, two-year age of sexual activity is getting lower president of Peer AIDS, said previ- and lower” Giventer explained. Acous assemblies conductcording to him, sexual ed by Peer AIDS quickly activity is by far the caught his attention and most common way encouraged him to be a part of transmitting the of the ambitious club. The disease. skits and activities done by Peer AIDS will this club preach the knowlcontinue to spread the edge of HIV and AIDS in knowledge of HIV and fun ways that are able to AIDS. It is a club that grab the attention of stuhopes to benefit the dents. “The Jerry Springer future and protect our skit was my favorite activlives today. With the source: rubberstamps.net ity. Almost everyone knows help of Ethan Giventer of him and his show,” said Giventer. and all the students who joined, Peer He performed this skit last year in the AIDS will be sure to have another MHS auditorium. successful year.

It’s Academic!

BY LIZ LEONE

JOURNALISM STUDENT

Ever think it was possible to learn interesting tidbits of information and simultaneously have fun?

Well, according to “It’s Academic” Quiz Bowl president Alec Slatky, it is.

“It’s Academic” is a group of students who prepares for and competes in academic competitions against other regional high schools. The type of trivia included is a little bit of everything, ranging from math and science, to politics and languages.

The club currently has about ten students as members. Many of them are seniors and will be leaving next year, so they are really looking for new members. Club advisor Mrs. Price says, “It could be so much fun.

You don’t need to be a brainiac to join the club. You can really have a good time and get to meet new people.”

Besides the usual competitions against other schools, it is also possible for the “Its Academic” Quiz Bowl team to be selected for

the Long Island Challenge. Some readers may be familiar with this competition that is aired on News Channel 12. Twenty schools are randomly drawn from a hat, but it just so happens that Massapequa has not been drawn to compete for its second year in a row. They are hoping to get the chance to compete in the Long Island Challenge next year.

To figure out who will participate in the actual competitions, all group members take part in an intrasquad competition. It consists of a written test (10 random questions) and a buzzer session. The four highest scoring students are named to the varsity team. Since there are four rounds in each game, the JV team rotates in and out so everyone who wants to play gets a chance.

“It’s Academic” really encourages new members to join. Club President Alec Slatky would like to see some new faces and says, “Having fun and learning at the same time always happens. Well, usually more of the having fun.” They meet Wednesdays after school in Room 313.

Chief’s Challenge

apequa High School has seen in the last few years. This club was influenced by Rachel’s Challenge, which High school is full of chal- was first presented at the high school lenges, but not all high school stu- a couple of years ago. After seeing dents are ready to take the Chiefs the family and videos of Rachel’s Challenge. The club, which was Challenge, Mrs. Domingo and Mrs. created last year by Mrs. Domingo Ahearn decided to make a club for and Mrs. Ahearn, has been one of students who believe in making a the most influential clubs that Mass- difference. The club recently ran a

BY SEAN KERWIN

JOURNALISM STUDENT

Forensic Club

BY JAMES CAMPISI JOURNALISM STUDENT

They say that “dead men tell no tales,” but to this school club, they blurt out a novel.

The Forensic club at MHS is gearing up for the forensic competition in April at the C.W. Post gymnasium. The competition consists of the club reconstructing a crime scene and being judged on their performance.

According to club advisor Mrs. Lopez, this club will be getting more and more hectic as the competition draws near, while attendance and commitment will become all the more vital. Another factor that grows hectic as the competition rolls by is the club’s expenses. Some expenses include fingerprinting materials, fuming chambers, and the cost of competition. The Forensic club recently promoted a movie night on Friday, October 19, in order to pay for their expenses.

Mathletes

BY MICHAEL DORIA JOURNALISM STUDENT

Math A, Math B, Pre-Calculus, College Level Math… For most of us, just thinking about these courses makes our heads spin. MHS has a club dedicated completely to math for people who enjoy the subject. The club is called Mathletes!

The club advisor, Ms. Valcenbach, has been in charge for two years since the retirement of former advisor, Mr. Schmitt. She encourages all students to join the club, stating that, “The club helps in figuring out all types of problems using problem solving skills.” The club is a great place for social gathering and for sharpening math skills. Club president, Felicia Korenstein, has been a member since 10th grade, and said, “The club has great competition and is a great way to meet up with friends. This club has even improved my math skills.”

Mathletes is just like a sport team. The club competes in a county tournament with other schools from Nassau that all bring teams striving to show off their skills. Massapequa

canned food drive to assist St. Rose’s pantry for the poor.

“St. Rose does this can drive every year so people who are less fortunate can go in and help themselves when they need it,” said Mrs. Domingo about the pantry. It’s really a great way to give back to people who need it most around your neighborhood.

At the movie night, they played National Treasure in the auditorium, as senior club member Frank Myles said in a recent interview. The expenses for the competition seem to be the greatest hurdle for them to jump.

Besides expenses, the main skill needed for success is teamwork.

Senior Frank Myles says that the competition tests the entire club for their experimentation, knowledge, and leadership. It is very fast paced at times so everyone must stay alert.

Although it seems that the club is becoming tense, Mrs. Lopez ensures that their activities are enjoyable for the students. “Yes, we are getting more focused, but the club is still all about fun and I ask anyone who has an interest in the subject to join.”

The club members did very well in the competition last year with an impressive score; let’s see if they can beat it when April comes by.

has six math tournaments with MacArthur High School and all the scores are added up before they go on to the counties. The six tournaments with the same school just serve as a way to obtain a ranking.

The county tournament is by far the club’s most important event.

Over the years, the club has had success. For the past two years, Massapequa has finished third at the counties and last year, Alex Novak achieved Nassau County All-Star status. This status is achieved by students who are ranked in the top fifty from their scores in the competition in all of Nassau County.

The team meets every Wednesday in room 318 after school.

Go down and give this great academic club a try. Who knows? Maybe you will become a genius. It could help on Regents exams. The club can also make you a better math student.

Interested? Try this Mathlete sample question!

----- The number shown, with the hundreds digit is missing.

62894_52, is divisible by 48. Determine the missing digit----Answer: 3---

The club has a number of events throughout the year dedicated to helping out one another. It is a club influencing people to stop from their every day routines and do something to help someone, even if it does involve going out of your way.

Additionally, It is a great way to get to know your classmates.

NOV. - DEC. 2007

Knitting Club

BY BRENNA STRYPE JOURNALISM STUDENT

Ever feel like grabbing two needles and a ball of yarn, and sitting down for a nice quiet evening of knitting? Yeah, well, neither did most of the students here at MHS. Then Meaghan Vehlies started the Knitting Club.

It began, strangely enough, when she lost her job and decided to knit scarves and hats as Christmas gifts for her family and friends.

Meaghan had so much to knit in so little time; therefore, she began bringing her knitting to physics class, taught by the current knitting club advisor, Ms. Reynolds.

Through encouragement from her classmates, Meaghan decided to start the knitting club, asking everyone’s favorite teacher to be the necessary teacher advisor: Ms. Reynolds. When asked about her part in the Knitting Club, Ms. Reyn-

Surfriders

BY KYLE FEE STAFF WRITER

One of the newest clubs to MHS is the Surfriders Club. They are an environmental organization that wishes to help save the local environment, as well as to do their part to help improve the global world environment. Club adviser, Mr. Kennedy talked about plans for the club in the future, as well as significant things that students could to help save energy and preserve their environment.

The Surfriders Club is going strong. It boasts over 40 members who are all equally committed to the mission statement, “of improving the quality of the environment and spreading awareness in the high school and beyond.” This makes it one of the newest and most popular clubs in MHS. They also have big goals to match their size.

The club’s major goal this year is to make the school “carbon neutral.” This is when the carbon dioxide (the gas most responsible for global warming) emitted from a certain place (through the use of electricity, oil, natural gas, driving, etc.) are offset by programs that reduce CO2 levels, like reforestation.

According to Mr. K, the Surfriders Club calculated MHS’s energy usage, and transportation for all of last year, and submitted the results to Carbonfund.org. This organization then calculated that MHS produced over 1,300 metric tons of CO2 last year. While finding ways to reduce MHS’s “carbon footprint,” the Sur-

FEATURES olds quickly turned the spotlight to the club president, explaining, “This is all Meaghan. She deserves all the credit for this.”

Now, a year later, students gather in room 222 every Wednesday in, as Ms. Reynolds puts it, “a casual atmosphere where people can hang out.” She explained that the goal for the club is two-fold: learning how to knit for themselves and then, once skilled enough, being able to knit items for the community.

No experience is required, so new students are coming every week and being taught how to knit. Said Meaghan, “most boys in the club know how to knit – in fact, there are more boys in the club than girls.”

You read it correctly ladies – if you’re looking for a selection of boys that can knit – your search is over. Head on down to the Knitting Club!

C.A.R.E. Club

BY TARA BRAILEY JOURNALISM STUDENT

C.A.R.E. Club, a popular club at MHS, is planning another year full of fundraisers and fun activities to promote cancer awareness under its two new advisors Mrs. McCarthy and Mrs. Pulick.

Recently, the club hosted a bake sale, sold pink “CARE” bracelets, and promoted a “Wear Pink Day” in the month of October to help raise money for breast cancer charities. C.A.R.E. Club members also attended the annual Breast Cancer Walk at Jones Beach and are planning to hold a toy drive during the holiday season.

When asked if popular events from past years would be continued, such as the square dance, penny wars, and bingo, both advisors agreed that they would definitely continue these events.

“We want to keep up the traditions of Ms. Hartzell (the club’s former advisor who retired last June),” replied advisor Mrs. Pulick.

Though past events are popular, new

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ideas are also being considered. “We are always open to new suggestions from members,” stated both advisors.

There are approximately sixty members, all of whom are interested in furthering the club’s goal: raising awareness of cancer in the Massapequa community. “We basically hold fundraising activities and events to help fund cancer prevention and research,” said Vicepresident Lisa Totino, a club member since the tenth grade.

The club plans to raise awareness and involve MHS and the community through its various fundraisers. Teddy bears and C.A.R.E. club sweatshirts will be sold in addition to the bracelets and organization of events.

Meetings are usually held on Mondays in the Little Theater after school at 2:30. C.A.R.E. club always welcomes new members, especially those looking to participate as the club plans another busy year raising money for cancer organizations and increasing awareness throughout

friders will also be raising money that will be donated to reforestation projects in an effort to reduce MHS’s carbon pollution down to zero. If properly done, the carbon gets offset The club is always looking for

BY CHRIS NEWMAN and pollution reduces to zero. This JOURNALISM STUDENT new ways to make the experience betrevolutionary step would make MHS ter for non-club members. “ We are one of the first carbon neutral high This is [DJ of the day] coming thinking of adding a news segment, schools in the United States. to you live on WMHS. Here’s [artist as well as commercials and PSA’s.

Another important task that of song] with [song title].

There are so many possibilities to These are the words that echo explore,” Kyle said. The club also through halls of MHS every mornhas request days, where non- club ing thanks to the broadcasting club. members can request a song to be The broadcasting club is made up of played if it fits the requirements set twenty or so students who have or by the school. There are also special are currently taking a broadcasting days where, depending on the day or class. The club started back in the theme of the day, certain songs that 1980’s when the class started up, fit the theme will be played. back when radio technology was dif“All students who are interested ferent than today in an aspect. in broadcasting or simply like music “The club has its own radio should join this club.” Ms. Coyle station,” club advisor Ms. Coyle said. “I know a few people who they do is recycling. Many of you said. “[WMHS] produces and plays have gone on to take broadcasting see them during the afternoons col- songs before first period and somein college after being a part of this lecting the papers from the recycling times during the day. The club had club.” The club may be tough, but is baskets and disposing of it properly. to refurbish the studio when it was rewarding for those who join it.

According to Mr. Kennedy, the pro- struggling to stay up and active.”

For all those people who are cess is going strong and will contin- Luckily it survived. thinking of becoming the next big ue. Also they will be doing numerous Many different members of radio host, get your training now and fundraisers to help raise money and the club get a chance to be the DJ join the broadcasting club. It’s your in turn help through programs like of the day. Over the years, on-air turn on the mic. reforestation. The popular Green personas are born. They are familiar Festival is returning this year, so Mr. with every student in the Kennedy says to be on the lookout school. “It’s a great feelfor that in the springtime. ing being on the air. I like The Surfriders Club is bat- playing all the different tling one of the most important types of music since I issues of the world, global warm- am a music lover,” Chief ing, the preservation of the Earth. Engineer and junior Kyle Whether it be through the nuances Fee, also known as Freelike recycling in the school, or going style Kyle said. “This directly to the source with planting could encourage people dune grass at Tobay, they are proving to join and create their MAX SPARR // THE CHIEF themselves to be the keepers of this own persona.”

Freestyle Kyle mixes some sweet jams.

Earth of ours.

Broadcasting Club

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SPIRIT WE

halls at the sight of classmates and friends accessorized with random Although the gray clouds headgear and oh-so-attractive enwere rolling in above MHS during sembles. the week of October 22 through 27, “Oh, you look so good!” inside, the halls were bursting with as well as other such compliments spirit. From poodle skirts to an ex- were distributed from one wardrobe plosion of blue and gold, the student malfunction to the next throughout body was radiating school spirit the the day. So much for questioning entire week. friendships!

To kick off the week, everyAlthough Mother Nature did one went through a blast from the not hold off the rain, she couldn’t past for Generation Day. Aside from prevent MHS from dressing to attire from the past half-century, stu- impress and looking extremely dents were also sporting extravagant fancy for the introduction of Fancy outfits from the early years of history Schmancy day. The ladies modeled and even into the future. Students an assortment of colorful dresses and and teachers came decked out as Vi- skirts while the men sported spiffy kings, shepherds, hippies, ‘80s and ‘90s junkies, and even a prediction of future generations.

The following day, sequins, shocking patterns, and extreme clashes were all mixed together in hopes of concocting outfits that no one tuxedoes and suits to their classes. would ever even dream of wearing. Even the occasional monocle and On “Would you still be my friend if I top hat were spotted in the halls wore this?” day, it seemed as though to emphasize sophistication in the that the more outrageous people students’ attire. Students and faculty looked, the more friends they gained! members were dressed for success Laughter and comments filled the and looked absolutely stunning, givBY TRACI PREVOST STAFF WRITER

PHOTOS BY MAX SPARR // THE CHIEF

FEATURES

NOV. - DEC. 2007

EEK 2007 ing the high school a new shine.

Everyone went from high heels to slippers for the much anticipated pajama day. “I love pajama day,” says senior Sara Chatalbash,

“I look forward to it in spirit week.”

Students traveled from class to class in their flannels, bathrobes, and slippers; some even brought blankets for a chance to nap!

The week came to a close with the annual blue and gold day.

Nearly everyone showed off their Pequa pride with body paint, hair coloring, and ensembles heavily decorated with the school colors.

The football team (and even senior Ashley DeMarco) sported Mohawks to show their intense school spirit and excitement for the upcoming homecoming game. Students in all aspects of school activity, whether it be sports, music, art, or just general

attendance, wearing the chief headdress and attire to support the day.

Seniors Alex Marz, Alex Harris, and Mike Vigilante did a fantastic job of pumping up the student body by leading the pep rally Friday afternoon. Students showed their immense support for all the fall teams at the high school and were rallied up by the band, kickline and cheerleaders, who all offered exhilarating performances. Although the homecoming parade was rained out, it did not prevent a great number of students from coming to watch the game and support their school.

Participation during spirit week was definitely at an all time high this year. Students took things to the extreme and had a great time.

“It was epic,” comments senior Frank Myles, “I wish there were more weeks like this during the year. It gives you an opportunity to dress like complete freaks and be complimented on it. What could be better?”

THE CHIEF 11

FEATURES

NOV. - DEC. 2007

THE CHIEF 12

CLUBS (cont.)

National Honor Society

BY MEGAN FRANCIS JOURNALISM STUDENT

The National Honor Society is alive and growing. In addition to holding the annual blood drives, conducting peer tutoring, and saying the morning announcements, NHS officers and advisor Ms. Moran organized a New Student Breakfast recently for the first time at MHS. Vice President Tara Brailey said the breakfast was a chance for new students to meet and talk with other new students, as well as have the opportunity to ask questions to current MHS students.

The club’s main goal is to help the community through different projects. Conducting the blood drive and peer tutoring are currently

their main concerns.

NHS admitted forty more members last year than the year before, which is a great achievement for the class of 2008. “Each grade brings a different group of students,” says Ms. Moran. “The number of inductees depends on the student body, but membership seems to be growing each year.”

Providing that members fulfill the club’s ten-hour community service requirement, they will be recognized with blue and gold medals to be worn at the graduation ceremony in June. Given the club’s noble ambitions, these medals will certainly be well deserved.

Sean Buttigieg (left) and Phil Cheng (above) contribute to the cause.

Far right, other donators Jaclyn Fabri, Kaitlyn Albert, and Matt Fink.

PHOTOS PROVIDED BY LORS PHOTOGRAPHY

Tech Talk With Nipun

BY NIPUN MARWAHA STAFF WRITER

Halo 3: Aliens, Guns, Swords, and BOOM! This game is unbeatably addictive. More weapons, more blood, more multiplayer features, and did I mention more fun? Halo 3 puts both its predecessors to bed with its new maps and vehicles. I believe I speak on behalf of anyone that has played Halo when I say that once you pick up the controller, putting it down is out of the question.

On its first day of sales, Halo 3 made $170 million in the U.S. alone. The game grossed a total of $300 million in the first week of sales.

When one enters the Xbox Live portion of the Halo 3 game, he or she can see a world map that illuminates the areas where people are playing. When I saw it for the first time at 12 o’clock one day, the map looked like one giant blob of light; from the US to Japan was completely illuminated. And don’t forget that if it is noon here in New York, it is midnight in Tokyo.

What do other people had

to say?

“I love Halo 3. It’s beautiful. Absolutely beautiful.” –Chris Petrik “This game is so intense I’m schfitzing over here!” –Gabe Dash “Guns, Robots, Aliens, and Zombies, how bad could it be?” –Steve Guglielmoni Apple won’t give up! iPods are proof that evolution truly exists. Since their creation early in the decade, iPods have gotten smaller in size, bigger on storage, and more hi-tech on everything else.

Lets start with the baby of the bunch: the iPod shuffle. This 2 x .4 inch flash drive clip is capable of storing a GB of data. This mini monster, with a 240-song capacity, is perfect for athletes who want to run with rhythm or people who just drop everything—although I don’t suggest testing its drop resistance.

This pocket powerhouse goes for $79, but is only worth it if you don’t want to be weighed down by the full size iPod. The iPod Nano is next on the list. In all honesty, it is a waste of

The Gift of Life

BY VALENTINA BORDA JOURNALISM STUDENT

On Thursday, November 14, Massapequa students helped save lives by donating 75 pints of blood at the NHS Blood Drive.

It its unfortunate but true that Long Island has a major blood shortage.

“Only four people out of one hundred are donating blood. That’s about 2 percent when the average is supposed to be 5 percent,” explained nurse, Elaine Wheeler.

To encourage students here at MHS, the New York Blood Center supplied brochures that gave great reasons to sign up for the blood drive.

Miss Allison Moran, guidance counselor and blood drive organizer was amazed at how many students had the strength to over come thier fears and donate blood.

“At first I wasn’t going to do it, because I’m not a fan of needles,” senior, Daniella Lanzillota said, “But after I read the brochure I realized I can save up to three people’s lives with just on pint of blood. It will be worth it.”

U n f o r t u n a t e l y, t h e r e are certain restrictions that restrict some students from participating in the blood drive.

“There were 97 pledges this year. 75 pints of blood were donated, the difference was the amount of people who did not qualify to donate

money. It’s bigger than the shuffle and and holds 4 times less data than the Classic. With such a small screen, the only thing the Nano is capable of is burning out your eyes.

I would only recommend this iPod to people who are so indecisive about what they want that they could quote Goldie Locks, “This one is too big, this one is too small, the Nano is just trash.”

The next-gen iPod Classic pulls all the goods together into one non-smudging package. Available in 80 and 160-gigabyte sizes, the new classic can store more data than the average PC. At $250 and $350 respectively, the classic is expensive but is worth every penny. The classic has a new album flow scroll method, which allows you to look at all your album covers and choose your songs in that manner. The final ability that takes the cake is the iPod’s dual use as a portable hard drive. At 80 GBs, you can back up your computer and your parents’ computer on your iPod and still have room for your music.

Nip’s Rating iPod Shuffle 8/10 iPod Nano 2/10

iPod Classic 9.4/10

due to low iron or other problems,” explained Miss Moran. She encourages any student seventeen and over, weighing at least 110 pounds, to donate.

“I was definite I wanted to donate, but after I read the brochure I realized I couldn’t because I was too young and just got my ear pierced,” explained 16 year old senior, Anthony Kolnberger.

Compared to last year, this year’s blood drive showed a light increase. Luckily, the high number of pledges has been steady throughout the years and has not decreased according to Miss Moran.

“I’d like to say thank your to everyone who had to overcome their fears to donate,” Miss Moran commented. “You really never know when those three people will need your blood.”

I know what you’re thinking now… “He didn’t say anything about the iPhone or iTouch.” Well the thing is, I am expecting some product in the near future, so stay tuned and you’ll get the update in the next issue.

Nip’s Tips

-When trying to cram for a test, the best thing to do the night before is look up info on the internet (on sites with verified information).

Trust me, it is not a good idea to cram…but if you must here are some sites that can help APnotes.net, regentsprep.org, sparknotes.com, wikipedia.org. I just want to make it clear, I am not telling you to cheat. That’s what we call plagiarism, boys and girls!

Plagiarism can get you kicked out of any institution in the world. But if you need fast info to study with the night before the test, go for it.

-You can switch your iPod into a portable hard drive, often one that has more space than your computer!

You can just back up all your files on your iPod and keep your wire in your bag so that your homework is always a plug and a click away.

NOV. - DEC. 2007

FEATURES

THE CHIEF 13

HALLOWEEN 2007 Another Spook-tacular Safe Halloween Students of the SADD club raised over $2,000 in donations from On Sunday October 28, ap- parents passing through. proximately 650 MHS students in Since it was Safe Halloween, the SADD club created an early Hal- there of course had to be candy. loween celebration for the young- Thus, each club member was mansters in the community throughout dated to bring in at least four bags. the halls of MHS. Despite the huge volume of candy About 1500 toddlers, el- collected, there was still just barely ementary-aged kids, and parents enough to feed the huge turnout of attended the event, which ran from young kids in costume.

2:00 p.m. until 5:30 p.m.

“Safe Halloween was a huge “I was not sure what to ex- success,” said MHS senior Lisa pect from the students,” said Dr. Totino. “Meeting with our group, Arale, the new advisor of SADD, decorating the halls, and handing out “but I was extremely happy in the candy was exciting. I hope the kids end.” had as much fun as the students.”

There was a wide variety of themes present; participating groups ranged from Guitar Hero to Harry Potter. This year, the New York City theme was awarded first-place by SADD club members; this marked the second consecutive win for seniors Jackie Fede, Chris Ryan, John Cantalupo, Diana

BY MEGAN FRANCIS JOURNALISM STUDENT

The winning group poses for a photo.

PHOTOS BY SARAH PICKLES // THE CHIEF

DiGangi, Michael Wiederecht and Robert Cremmins, who won last year for their “Survivor” theme.

“This event was a really great example of how students can come together to do something nice for someone else,” said Dr. Arale. Congratulations to all who took part!

“Dress-Up” Ain’t Just for Kids!

As per tradition, Massapequa High School students and teachers filled the halls with character by dressing up for Halloween.

Pictured below are just some highlights of the memorable day.

PHOTOS BY MAX SPARR // THE CHIEF

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS CONTRIBUTED BY DIANA DIGANGI, AMANDA BRAVO and MEAGHAN VEHLIES

HUMOR

NOV. - DEC. 2007

Two Students. Two Views. A Battle of Epic Proportions......

BY MIKE PITOCCHI STAFF WRITER

As we all know, Vader’s got the force with him, which is the most powerful strength in the entire universe. But not only does Vader have the force with him; he is on the dark side. As said by the wise Yoda, “Beware of the dark side… if once you start down the dark path, forever will it dominate your destiny; consume you it will.”

Now, with the force, you can pretty much do whatever the h-edouble hockey sticks you want. You can choke people from far away; you can make stuff fly into your hands from far away; you can move stuff from far away—basically, you can do a lot of things with your hands… from far away.

Vader could easily take Voldemort and snap him and his wand in half with the point of a finger—not to mention the fact that he’s got his light saber. Even if Voldemort tried to shout “accio lightsaber,” Vader would simply kill him before Voldemort could even begin to utter the words.

This also applies to any spell, even “avada kedavra.” Voldemort couldn’t even kill a fly.

What kind of villain is that? “Vader will be damned if he doesn’t kill a fly everyday” proclaimed Nick Vaiano, local fan.

Furthermore, when the

STAFF WRITER

A sudden empty feeling has waved over good ol’ Massapequa High School.

There is something missing.

Something big. Something curly.

Yes, ladies and gentleman, Kyle Fee has shaved his head.

As you strolled down the hallway, you may have found yourself thinking, “Where did that kid with the hair go?” Whether you know him as Kyle Fee, “that kid with the hair”, Freestyle Kyle, or even if you don’t know him at all, source: www.facebook.com

Vader vs. Voldemort

have skills, but what real challenges rebels blew up the Death Star in A

BY KEVIN McCARTHY did he face? The unimportant Jedis New Hope, Vader basically said, “…

STAFF WRITER and a bunch of little kids in Revenge build a new one!” And do you know what they did? They built a new one.

Well Mike, let me start by of the Sith? A Death Star full of weak Also, as mentioned by junior Andrew saying that you haven’t read all the little British humans? Luke’s hand?

Having “the force” does not Gavin, “He can Harry Potter books, nor blow up planhave you seen all the make you a god, it does not give ets—including Star Wars films, there- you unlimited superpowers, and it is Harry Potterfore your credentials no match to magic, thank you very land—from the are questionable. I for much.

Death Star.” In one have other words, seen and Vader can kill read them Voldemort even all, and as from lightyears much as I away. am a fan And, of the origsource: dumbledoresarmy1986.blogspot.com although he i n a l S t a r may be quite evil, Vader does have Wars films, I have to a good side. At the end of Return conclude that Voldeof the Jedi, he defeats the Sith lord, mort is the winner. saving his son Luke and thus becomFirst of all, any ing good. first-year Hufflepuff They say that Voldemort is could easily produce a pure evil, yet does not good rise charm defending himabove evil? self from a lightsaber attack, such as expelliarmus or perhaps accio lightsaber.

Secondly, forcechoke would have no effect on Voldemort because his magical powers exceed the human need for breath.

Thirdly: you claim that using “the force,” Darth Vader source: uk.gizmoto.com could “snap someone in half.” If Vader had this power, then why, after being a prominent character in six major this monumental event—the fall motion pictures, did of the ‘fro—is hard for all of us to he never show off this cope with. ability?

Up until about a month ago, Va d e r m i g h t Kyle had brightened the hallways with that mass of curly fuzz that lay atop his head. With this hair of SKETCHY TIMES BY T.J. KELLY epic proportions, I kid you not, Kyle could literally be spotted coming from a mile away. Towering over everyone else—what is that? Is it a bird’s nest? Is it a large circular dome of brilliance? No, it is not. It was Kyle Fee’s head.

When asked why on earth Kyle would shave his miraculous ‘fro (I heard it cured cancer), he replied, “The hair, sadly, had to go. It was getting to the point where it was troublesome. It got mixed up in the wrong things. I would wake up next to wild girls and think, ‘Darn hair bringin’ home girls again...” It had its own fan club, and it was at this point I decided enough is enough. I had to let it go.”

You make us sad, Kyle Fee. Nonetheless, what’s done is done. So long, Kyle’s ‘fro of awesomeness.

You will be missed.

Where Did the ‘Fro Go?

BY SARAH PICKLES

THE CHIEF 14

ENTERTAINMENT

NOV. - DEC. 2007

Kid Nation, Have We Gone Too Far?

BY JOSEPH GELFAND STAFF WRITER

Kid Nation is a reality television show that premiered on CBS network on September 19, 2007, and has continued airing every Wednesday since.

The show is about 40 kids, ages 8 to 15, who are left alone in a privately owned town on the ruins of Bonanza City. In the show, the kids try to create a functioning society by working together to keep peace and order with minimal supervision from

adults. The children were carefully chosen, and each was given $5,000 dollars to participate. Also, the children were given the option of leaving whenever they wanted.

But is it really worth it?

During an interview with MSNBC, director Rupert Thompson and host Jonathan Karsh explained that the show was formulated to test the responsibility of the children and show the difficulty it takes to create a habitable society.

“It’s not right to leave kids

“Hardcore” Music

BY KYLE FEE STAFF WRITER

I was listening to some Minor Threat yesterday, and I could only think of one thing. I thought of the idea that some people consider My Chemical Romance “hardcore.”

This simple little notion upset my stomach and gave me a headache for a couple of minutes. To serve the general public, let’s clear up a couple of things about hardcore.

Hardcore used to be the complete opposite of popular. The bands participating and the kids within the scene were very aggressive. They supported their bands by going to their shows, no matter what the venue, and by performing “tribal rituals” such as “slam dancing” and “circle pitting.” These kids hated the cops, considering the cops were the classic “bad guy.” They were the ones who “busted” kids and shut down the shows. The music was raw and most songs were lucky to be two minutes long. The bands played with an unparalleled ferocity only preceded by Jerry Lee Lewis. It was never about merchandise or money, considering these bands had neither at the time.

The lyrics screamed teen angst, dissension against Reagan, or “I have better things to do than drugs.” Al-

though many say that hardcore died in the mid eighties, the true fans kept it close to their hearts, hoping for a new wave to appear someday.

That new wave has unfortunately appeared today. The “new” hardcore is much different then the original. Songs are much longer.

Instead of valuing the ferocity, the fans admire what shoes the band wears and the ideals they spew. They all are similar sounding, and, let’s be honest: they don’t have that much talent. Their lyrics consist of empty metaphors on the ideals they promote, yet do not necessarily believe.

Instead of enjoying the band on the stage, or even watching them, they wish to beat each other up in the ore violent pits.

However, some things still remain. The anti-drug movement known as “Straight Edge” still prevails. Many bands still talk about it in their lyrics, which is a positive.

Short of this idea, nothing is left of the abrasive yet pungent genre in the eighties.

Many of the hardcore bands are still alive. Some still play shows.

But I know that when they eventually do pass, they will be rolling in their graves.

alone. They are not responsible enough to take care of themselves like they are demanded to in the show,” says MHS junior Samantha Gastman. “Perhaps these kids are not ready to take on these responsibilities just yet.”

Are these kids being exploited for entertainment purposes?

Has CBS really made a Lord Of The Flies reality show?

The premises of the show may indeed put the kids in danger.

According to Newsday, a twelve

STAFF WRITER AND FEATURES EDITOR

Dancers rejoice! Finally, a quality dance reality show that doesn’t feature washed out celebrities, but real dancers. From “paso doble” to “krumping,” this show has it all. So You Think You Can Dance has made dance so popular that the FOX network decided to put the show on tour.

On October 9, the top ten dancers (along with surprise appearances from those in the bottom ten) stopped at Nassau Coliseum to perform some of the fans’ favorite dances from the third season of the wildly successful summer series.

The night was packed with

high-energy dances and frustrating fillers, usually in the form of video packages and painfully scripted banter between the dancers. Breakdancers Dominic Sandoval and Sara Von Gillern, had a five-minute skit about old musicals that showcased Sandoval’s obvious thirst for attention, while allowing time for the other dancers to change costumes for their next dances. Many of the video segments shown were already played on the show, which was irksome since the fans had already seen these clips.

The great thing about the show is how it brings together danc-

year-old girl received burns to her face from a failed attempt to use a stove. Similarly, several kids accidentally drank a liquid that had bleach in it, calling into question the lack of supervision present.

Maybe entertainment has gone a little too far on this one. Is it really necessary to subject children to these kinds of conditions just so viewers can be entertained on Wednesday night? You be the judge.

Writers on Strike!

BY LIZ LEONE

JOURNALISM STUDENT

“I’m not doing it until you give me what I want.” That’s what she said.

And that is what Hollywood writers and producers are saying as well. We may be hearing a lot less, “that’s what she said,” as the writers and producers go on strike demanding profits from TV shows and movies that get streamed online.

This nation-wide strike is the first in almost twenty years.

The first casualties of the strike were late night comedies like “The Colbert Report” and “The Daily Show with Jon Stewart,” since their skits and monologues depend on current events and are written new each week. On the other hand, most scripted shows will not be affected right away since they have many scripts stored away that can last until early next year. However, if negotiations take too long, some shows still may be forced into reruns.

The strike also affects other groups and unions that are involved in Hollywood productions. Actors and actresses like Steve Carell from “The Office”, Eva Longoria from “Desperate Housewives”, and Tina Fey from “Saturday Night Live”

So You Think You Can Dance Tour Review

BY KELSEY LUDWIG AND MARISSA CETIN

THE CHIEF 15

ers with so many different styles, and challenges them to perform outside their element. For example, ballroom dancers performing hip hop can be very interesting to watch. The majority of styles featured on the show were performed on the tour, and ballroom seemed to be the style of the night with Viennese waltz, samba, and West Coast swing.

Despite winning the competition, Sabra Johnson was strangely not showcased as “America’s Favorite Dancer.” Danny Tidwell, the runner up and the adoptive brother of last season’s amazing runner up, Travis Wall, stole the night with his incredible signature pirouettes and leaps. Sadly, Sara Von Gillern and

have refused to cross picket lines and stopped the taping of their shows.

Members of production crews are also out of work until the strike comes to an end and taping begins again.

Another group the strike affects is the fans. Many people are at a loss without new episodes of their favorite shows, and are forced to watch reruns. There are also mixed views of whether or not the writers and producers are being rational with their demands.

Senior Casey Egan said, “I

source: www.newyorktimes.com

think it’s good that the writers are standing up for what they believe in, but the effect it has on the rest of the industry makes it not worth it.”

Senior Brenna Strype also expressed her views. She said, “It makes me mad because my favorite TV shows like the “Colbert Report” and “The Daily Show” are running repeats and I really miss seeing new shows every week.” ballroom dancer Pasha Kovalev ‘s ‘80s jazz routine to Queen’s “Body Language,” and Contemporary dancers Neil Haskell and Lauren Gottlieb’s dance to Citizen Cope’s “Let the Drummer Kick” were left out of the show. Bottom ten dancers Shauna Nolan, Jesus Solorio, Hok and Anya Garnis were also in attendance, although, regrettably, they were only in one or two dances.

Overall, dances like Danny Tidwell and Neil Haskell’s contemporary battle royale “Are You the One” were more spectacular when performed live as compared to on the television show because of the intensity felt in the coliseum.

ENTERTAINMENT

NOV. - DEC. 2007 REVIEWS

Across the Universe

Critic Corner

BY MARISSA CETIN

BY GREG POMPONO AND ERIK KNIGHT STAFF WRITERS

We Own The Night -Crime, Drama Rating: R* Starring: Joaquin Phoenix, Mark Wahlberg, Eva Mendes, Robert Duvall Directed By: James Gray “We Own the Night” is an exciting thriller that takes place in New York during the late 1980’s.

An aspiring club manager, Phoenix, who manages one of the hottest bars in town, frequently has to turn his back to illegal behavior.

But, when his brother (Whalsource: wildaboutmovies.com berg) and his father (Duvall)—who both are with the police—ask him to track a deadly drug dealer, things begin to become stressful. He begins to fear for both his career and his life as the storyline unfolds; the intense action and emotion keeps the movie exciting at all times. Overall, the movie is adventurous and maintains a great story line.

The Heartbreak Kid -Comedy Rating: R* Starring: Ben Stiller, Michelle Monaghan, Jerry Stiller, Malin Akerman Directed By: Bobby Farrelly, Peter Farrelly Run Time: 118 min This remake of Elaine May’s “The Heartbreak Kid” stars Ben Stiller as Eddie, a man who is getting married to a woman whom he proposed to after knowing her for just one week. While on their honeymoon, he discovers that his new bride is, in many ways, a horrible person. He then meets an-

other woman (Michelle Monaghan) whom he soon realizes he should have married instead.

Overall, this film source: www.gaminggutter.com was mediocre. It had funny scenes, but other than those few parts, it lacked personality. Not worth the ten bucks!

Good Luck Chuck - Comedy Rating: R* Starring: Jessica Alba, Dane Cook, Dan Fogler, Ellia English Directed By: Mark Helfrich Run Time: 96 min This humorous film is about a man who seems to be a good luck charm. However, as girls begin to flock to him from left and right, he becomes even lonelier than he was previously due to his “no strings” philosophy.

Then, he meets the perfect girl, but has to find a way to break the curse so that the girl he truly cares about winds up not caring for him. This film was dry and flat-out source: www.albafan.com boring. With little to laugh at, you find yourself flabbergasted that it was labeled a comedy. *See with a parent if under the age of 17

The Nanny Diaries

By KEVIN McCARTHY STAFF WRITER

That’s right, I saw The Nanny Diaries. It is definitely a chick flick, so as a sixteen-year-old male I don’t think that this movie was intended for me.

I did know going into this film, about a young college graduate who takes a job as a nanny for the child of a rich jerk couple, what I was in for. First of all, it stars Scarlet Johannson, and unless it’s like the Spongebob Movie, that usually indicates that it is a chick flick. She wasn’t bad -she’s a talented actress-

THE CHIEF 16

but there really wasn’t much substance to her character, or any of the other characters for that matter.

The script, (adapted from the novel of the same name) was the main flaw of the film. For one thing, it failed in its attempts at comedy; most of the time the jokes and the dialogue fell flat.

However, the movie is inoffensive and enjoyable at times, and the performances by Oscar-nominees Laura Linney and Paul Giamatti are great.

P.S. I saw it with my grandmas and sister. They’re women so they liked it more.

FEATURES EDITOR

When most Beatles’ fans hear a cover of their beloved songs, the response is usually along the lines of “That did not do the original any justice,” or “That was almost an insult to the Beatles!” However, on the soundtrack to the Judy Taymor film Across the Universe, the overall response is much more positive.

While there are some disappointments, the majority of the twodisk deluxe edition—packed with 31 songs and two instrumentals—is refreshing. Each of the songs has a new twist, yet still manages to stay loyal to the original.

The actors, who all have very promising voices, sing the album. Evan Rachel Wood plays Lucy [in the Sky with Diamonds] and provides surprisingly decent vocals, although they do not stand out in comparison to that of the other actors and the Beatles. Although “Blackbird” is overly sweet and innocent (to its credit it leaves out the chirping at the end of the song that sounds a bit over the top in the original), Wood successfully delivers “If I Fell” in a longing and sultry voice that passionately conveys her feelings toward Jude.

Jim Sturgess ([Hey] Jude) has the perfect and appropriate combination of John Lennon and Paul McCartney’s voices, but with a charm of his own. Sturgess opens the soundtrack with his incredibly eerie rendition of “Girl,” very reminiscent of Ewan McGregor in “Moulin Rouge,” which draws the listener in immediately. This version is regrettably much shorter than the original and only includes the first verse, leaving the listener wanting more.

“All My Loving” and the heartbreaking “All You Need Is Love” begin A Capella, both risky decisions, but once the instruments kick in, you’ll wish it had stayed sans background music. Sturgess’ solo pieces are among the best on the album, most notably the snarling and intense “Revolution,” which has won him much praise, the playful “I’ve Just Seen a Face,” and the dreamy title track, “Across the Universe.”

The role of Max, the Ivy League dropout who faces Uncle Sam singing “I Want You (She’s So Heavy)” while being drafted for the Vietnam War, is played by Joe Anderson, who also has exceptional vocals. His performance of “Hey Jude,” is driven, dynamic, and powerful, setting the tone for the climax of the film; Anderson all but screams the latter part of the song. Anderson and Sturgess’ “Strawberry Fields Forever,” and “With a Little Help

From My Friends” are great covers that do the original hits justice as well.

Dana Fuchs, who portrays [Sexy] Sadie, the resident hippie, has a Janis Joplin-esque voice, which seems to have too much edge on “Why Don’t We Do It in the Road?”

However her raw voice creates a new, rough feel on “Helter Skelter” that measures up to the original. JoJo (“Get Back,” anyone?) played by Martin Luther McCoy, a softer Jimi Hendrix, soulfully breathes “While My Guitar Gently Weeps.” The two collaborate on “Oh! Darling” and “Don’t Let Me Down,” and the differences in their voices fit together like the pieces of a puzzle and blend with each other with ease.

T.V. Capiro (Prudence, the lost girl who entered into the main characters lives “… Through the Bathroom Window”) takes over “I Want to Hold Your Hand,” but slows it down to a sugary ballad directed at a blond cheerleader, causing the song to lose its spark and liveliness.

“Let it Be” is amazingly morphed into a haunting gospel, sung by young Timothy T. Mitchum as he seeks shelter while his home of Detriot is torched, and Carol Woods, who is preaching at his funeral. This interpretation is easily the most emotionally moving and remarkable on the album, and is not over done in the slightest, even with the gospel background.

This jam-packed soundtrack features a few cameos, including two seasoned musical veterans, one being none other than Bono. Ironically, Bono’s “I Am the Walrus” and “Lucy in the Sky with Diamonds” fail to stand out among the crowd.

Despite almost exactly matching the musicality of the Beatles, the songs are overly computerized causing the magic to be lost. Joe Cocker, who has performed in countless movies, television shows, and soundtracks, belts out the catchy “Come Together” in the form of a bum, pimp and hippie.

Salma Hayek even lends her voice for the background vocals in Anderson’s “Happiness is a Warm Gun” where five Hayek’s are featured as nurses in the war veteran’s hospital in which Max is being treated.

English comedian Eddie Izzard also makes an appearance, performing the mischievous “Being for the Benefit of Mr. Kite.” He ad-libs between verses, adding an extra flair to the song, but not without sacrificing the quality of the song.

This two-disk soundtrack is recommended to any Beatles fan who does not shun change, anyone who wants to become a Beatles fan, or anyone who believes that “All you really need is love.”

SPORTS

NOV. - DEC. 2007

Superbowl Contenders

BY ANTHONY CASSERO STAFF WRITER

The Patriots have been the class of the NFL for the past seven years. This could be the best team they have ever had.

The patriots are head and shoulders above every other team in the NFL. Tom Brady has led the league in touchdown passes so far this season and is on a pace to break Peyton Manning’s single season touchdown record. The Patriots got to the AFC championship game with their wide receiving core being so poor that Brady’s best option was tight end, Ben Watson. This year the Patriot passing attack has come alive with the additions of Randy Moss, who is leading the league in touchdown catches, as well as Donte’ Stallworth, and Wes Welker. The scary thing about this team is that not only do they have the best offense in the league, averaging well over thirty points per game, but they also have a great defense. The Patriots have had a good defense ever since Coach Bill Belichick arrived to New England. This year’s defense features a new addition of Adalius Thomas, who was a pro bowl linebacker last year.

The Colts are the defending Super Bowl champions, a team that came back with mostly the same team as the year before.

One is forced to wonder just how good last year’s team was.

Last year the Colts could stop no one in the running game until the playoffs came around. Is this defense the horrible one from last year’s regular season or the phenomenal defense that was seen in last year’s playoffs?

The answer is that their defense is better than it has ever been since the arrival of Peyton Manning. If the Colts defense is to maintain this phenomenal play, Bob Sanders and sack artist Dwight Freeney will have to be right in the middle of it. The heart and soul of this team however is the offense led by Peyton Manning, who is arguably one of the best quarterbacks of all time. This offense has the ability to score on any team in any way. If a team does not respect the run, Manning will hand the ball off to Joseph Addai, who is averaging just under 4.5 yards a carry this season. If a team tries to stop the run, Peyton will march the Colts down the field throwing the ball to pro bowl players like Reggie Wayne, Marvin Harrison, and first round draft pick Anthony Gonzalez.

This team seems to be the only team

in the same league as the Patriots even after losing a close game in week nine against New England.

As much as Giants fans hate to admit it, the cowboys are the apparent favorites to represent the NFC in the Super Bowl.

Tony Romo has proved that he is not just a one year wonder. Romo has some great options to throw to, including Jason Wittin, Terry Glenn, and future Hall of Famer Terrel Owens. The Cowboys also have a nice “lightning and thunder” running combo with Julius Jones and Marrion Barber. Offensively, the Cowboys can keep up with any team averaging over thirty points per game. The Cowboys have a solid defense thanks to the leadership of new head coach Wade Phillips. Phillips likes to put pressure on the other team by blitzing, which has led to linebackers Greg Ellis and DeMarcus Ware having 17 sacks between them throughout the first 12 weeks of the season. The only weak point on the Cowboys is the defense against the pass, which is ranked at one of the lowest in the league.

After starting off the season at 0 and 2 the Giants have rebounded to have a winning streak.

The Giants were not expected to do much this season with Tiki Barber’s retirement, yet, Surprisingly, a three-headed monster has emerged to replace Barber. Out of the three, Derrick Ward, who is most similar to Barber, can catch the ball and can run outside of the tackles. The second running back is the power back Brandon Jacobs. At a towering six foot six, two hundred and sixty five pounds he brings back memories of Jerome Bettis of the Steelers. The third back is Ruben Droughns, who is a mixture of the other two backs.

He is a power back that can catch the football. The most impressive part of the Giants offense has been the duo of Manning to Burress.

They have eight touchdown passes, despite Burress not practicing for a part of the season due to an injury.

Althogh the duo has been slowed in recent weeks due to Burress having an injury. The most surprising part of the Giants turnaround has been the defense. The Giants defense leads the league in sacks, in large part to four players in particular. These players, who are the best sack artists in the league, are Justin Tuck, Michel Strahan, Osi Umenyiora, and Mathias Kiwanuka. The defense suffered a major blow when Mathias Kiwanuka season got ended due to injury

THE CHIEF 17

against the Lions. The Giants look like they could be real contenders.

The only troublesome thing about the giants is that they have collapsed during the second half of the season over the past two years. With the injuries the team is accumulating there is a chance that it could happen again this season.

The Packers are led by the newly rejuvenated Brett Farve, with his uncharacteristic game management style and not costing his team the game buy throw interceptions the Packers are 10-1 through the first 12 weeks of the season. The Packers are in the top ten in nearly every offensive category except for running the ball.

The Packers are last in the league in running the ball only averaging 81.8 yards per game. As the season goes on, it will be interesting to say the least what the Packers will do when it is snowing in Green Bay and conventional wisdom tells them to run the ball. The surprise of the Packers is how fast their defense has come along led by last years first round pick out of Ohio State, linebacker A.J. Hawk. The one weakness this

team has defensively is that they have been vulnerable to the passing game so far.

The Steelers have not floundered under the leadership of the young, first year head coach Mike Tomlin. The Steelers have been happy to see their franchise quarterback Ben Rothlisberger return to his near pro bowl form from two years ago, the year they won the Super Bowl. This year’s Steelers are basically the same Steelers we have seen for the past twenty years. They run the ball well, with the combination of Willie Parker and Najeh Davenport, who are averaging almost 150 yards a game. They also play great defense, currently ranked in the top five in points allowed, yards allowed, pass yards allowed, and rushing yards allowed. The linebackers set the mentality for the defense, bringing constant pressure to the quarterback, resulting in a defense giving up only 14.5 points per game. The team looks strong and is definitely a strong consideration for a potential Super Bowl contender.

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photos source: www.nfl.com

SPORTS

NOV. - DEC. 2007

THE CHIEF 18

FIELD HOCKEY

Turning Fairy Tale Into Reality

BY STEPHANIE POST COPY EDITOR

Last year, the field hockey team at MHS had a decent season, but all were surprised to see the team make it all the way to the state championships. This year, straight from the start, the team brought on the heat, and wouldn’t stop! The team’s regular season record was an amazing 13-3, dividing into 5-1 for League I and 8-0 for the team’s conference, making them Conference Champs.

The team’s forward line of Michelle Maurici, Samantha Wong, Morgan McCarthy, and Joanna Maglione produced enough goals

each game to secure a win, and the skills of Ashley DeMarco, Liz solid defense, Leone, and Melanie made up of Sosnowski.

Alexa Pesce, The team has Dana DiSworked extremely imile Danielle hard to become the Gaitings and most conditioned team goalie Danion Long Island accordelle Scicuteling to the girls’ coach, la, was nearly and they went into the impossible playoffs with confito penetrate. dence. They defeated However, the East Meadow 5-0 at midfield has Hofstra on November proven to be 6 for the Nassau title, t h e t e a m ’s but fell to Ward Melpowerhouse, Melanie Sosnowski rips a shot from the ville 3-0 at the Long with the great outside circle. MAX SPARR // THE CHIEF Island Championship at

Stony Brook University on Sunday, November 11. The final record for the team’s entire season was a commendable 15-4.

No matter how well field hockey did this season, even though they were prepared for all the challengers they met, the girls are all about enjoying each other’s company. “We’re all really having a good time together – we’re like one big family. This season has been awesome!” senior Alexa Pesce described.

Senior Michelle Maurici sums it up in one sentence. “I can’t imagine being anything but a Chief.”

Michelle Maurici Named Newsday’s Nassau County Player of the Week SP: What do you think you did to become Player of the Week?

In addition to all that MassMM: I was mostly awarded it apequa’s field hockey team ac- because I scored my sixteenth and complished this season, Michelle seventeenth goals that week. But Maurici earned Newsday’s Nassau much of my success I’d have to County Player of the Week Award for the week of November 5. This title entails outstanding performance, immense effort and devotion to the team.

BY STEPHANIE POST COPY EDITOR

SP: So I here you were awarded the title Newsday’s Player of the Week. What does it feel like to have been given the title?

MM: It was very unexpected.

It was a nice surprise to start off the playoff season, and I feel honored to be chosen to represent Massapequa.

Michelle takes a shot!

credit to the rest of the team.

SP: What would you say motivated you to work hard in all the games?

MM: Since we were the defending Nassau County and Long Island Champs, we felt it was our job to regain the title for a second season.

Also, all of our hard work and intense conditioning made us push harder to win our games.

SP: It sounds like an unforgettable experience. What’s your favorite memory from this past season?

MM: It would have to be all the time I spent MAX SPARR // THE CHIEF with the other 24 girls

Frankly Speaking

A-Rod: The Solution to World Hunger?

BY MATT FRANK SPORTS EDITOR

With the recent opt-out of his 252 million contract with the New York Yankees, Alex Rodriguez is auctioning himself off once again, but this time for a small difference of, oh, about $100 million. Can you even imagine seeing $350 million on a table, because I sure can’t. But hey, I mean, it is obviously more impor-

source: www.thejosevilson.com

tant to pay a ball player a ridiculous amount of money then it is to solve the ever-ongoing issue of world hunger, find the cure for cancer, or establish world peace.

Let’s take a look at how many average teenage “necessities” $350 million can buy: • 233.3 billion All American Hamburgers • 930 million top of the line Bentley’s • 4.375 million pairs of decent sneakers.

• 1.16 million iPod Touches.

To top it all off, Alex Rodriguez would potentially make 605 times the amount of an average family income per year if he accepted the deal.

In all fairness, let’s give him a break—he is only asking for $350 million dollars. If the guy was really greedy, he would be ask for Bill Gates’ net income, a mere $59 billion dollars.

on the team. There’s never a dull moment when we’re together and the bond that we’ve formed over the past six years is something that I’ll never forget.

SP: Are you planning on playing field hockey next year at college?

MM: Yes, I plan on playing NCAA Field Hockey and I’m in the process of committing to a team.

SP: Which colleges is that choice between?

MM: Stonehill, Adelphi and C.W. Post, which have Division II field hockey programs.

SP: One last question – ketchup or mustard?

MM: Oh, I hate mustard!

Ketchup!

Behold the Greatness of Golf!

Congratulations to the golf team who finished their season this fall with a impressive 9-2 record. They were also named conference fourchampions. Best of luck to the team this spring when they go to counties!

Boys Soccer - Nassau County Champs

MAX SPARR // THE CHIEF

SPORTS

NOV. - DEC. 2007

THE CHIEF 19

It’s Raining Touchdowns

Double Trouble

BY MATT FRANK

Chiefs Win Homecoming Game Against Syosset

BY MATT FRANK SPORTS EDITOR

The hype, the hysteria, the…. rain? For the second time in three years, the annual homecoming game for the Massapequa Chiefs football team was met with not just the opposition, but with “Mother Nature” as well. At around 2 p.m. on Saturday October 27, the Chiefs took to the field against Syosset for the final game of the regular season. A 3-3 record for the season, and a win against Syosset on homecoming weekend would surely boost momentum heading into the playoffs. And that’s exactly what happened.

With Syosset putting points on the board first, Massapequa rebounded quickly, tying up the game with a 40 yard pass from Junior

Quarterback Rob Von Bargen to Junior Wide Receiver Michael Mauri; this cut the lead to 1one point after a missed two point conversion. Although the game was relatively low scoring throughout the first two quarters, the Chiefs went to the locker room trailing by only one point with their defense looking strong. Clearly, the weather was not getting to the heads of the focused players.

The Chiefs first got on the scoreboard in the second half by a touchdown pass from Von Bargen to Frank Conrad for a nine yard score, and another pass to Conrad to make the two point conversion, giving the Chiefs a six point lead.

With the game now closer due to a Syosset touchdown, the Chiefs found their way into the end

SPORTS EDITOR

zone twice more with another touchdown pass from Von Bargen to Mauri again, this time for 67 yards; Senior Matt Hurst cemented the victory on a 4 yard touchdown run. Hurst finished off his regular season on an excellent note, rushing the ball 26 times for 117 yards and a score. When it was all over, the scoreboard read 28-19 in favor of the Chiefs, who clinched the fourth seed in the Nassau Conference 1 playoffs and finished with a 111.43 power ranking.

Once again, another successful season and playoff appearance for the Massapequa Chiefs. Credit has to go to the coaching staff as well as the players for giving it their all week in and week out in order to achieve success.

MAX SPARR // THE CHIEF

With the start of a new season, it was time for the Girls Tennis team to get prepared and take care of business. With a dominant first and second singles in Aylin Mehter and Samantha Gann respectively, the team looked like they would be competing for a playoff spot all season long. Throughout the competitive season the first two singles players combined for 21 wins and one loss, an incredible feat that is almost unheard of. The two girls, who reside as the team captains, are honored as All State Tennis and given the privilege to compete in the All State tournament.

With such a strong singles lineup, the rest of the team played extremely well, comprising a 6-2 conference record, and a total record of 7-4 on the season. Overall the season was pretty good. “We could have done better, but we tried our best and had a lot of fun which is definitely the most important thing,” said junior doubles player Kristen Saitta.

The team just missed out on the playoffs, and although a bit discouraged, the team knows that the season was a success, and the returning members are sure to do their part come next season to try to get the Chiefs back into the playoffs.

The Road To Another Successful Year

Massapequa Dominates the Boys Cross Country Standings

Varsity Soccer team, the girls were striving for another successful year.

As another season came to an With a stunning record of (8-1-0) end for the Massapequa Chiefs Girls in their Conference and an overall record of (11-2-0), the Chiefs finished in first place in Conference AA-I this year. The team’s success can be attributed to the strong leadership of captains Nicole Reverberi, Jen Cadolino, and Annie Hillin, along with scoring from Vicky DiMartino(10), Emily Masiello (9) and Kerry Sullivan (4). The Chiefs seemed invincible after showing resilience in all aspects of their game, including strong goaltending by Christina Fregosi, who had a stunning 62 saves in 13 games along with seven strong shutouts. The girls played well and made it all the way to the Long Island Championship, something that is an excellent achievement.

Massapequa’s scores were desirably lower than the other teams’. MassOn Monday, October 1st, the apequa finished with twenty-two Massapequa Boys Cross Country points, while both Uniondale and team headed to Bethpage State Park Plainview Kennedy had fifty-eight to compete against Uniondale High points. In this race Massapequa ’s School and Plainview Kennedy High runners were shown to be in top School in the 5K and 3.1 miles races. physical condition, taking home The team’s runners preformed out- another win. standingly, with many of them placing in the top fifteen. These runners include; Seniors Frankie Dioguardi, first place, and Toby Ring, eighth place; Juniors Matt Price, second place, Eric Vondunn, fifth place, Eric Wong, sixth place, and Will Grennan, thirteenth; Sophomores Justin Svegliato, ninth place, Mike Dioguardi, tenth place, Pat Morgan, eleventh place, and Mike Tittl, twelfth place.

For those not familiar with the sport, the teams are scored based on their top five runners. The runners’ places are combined; therefore it is best to have the lowest score.

BY JEFFREY BUCHHEIT STAFF WRITER

Katherine McGowan MAX SPARR // THE CHIEF

BY BRIAN SMOCOVICH STAFF WRITER

Matt Price source: www.sectionviii.org

THE CHIEF 20

NOV. - DEC. 2007

VOLLEYBALL

Chiefs Cap-Off Perfect Season with First State Championship games, both with scores of 25-20, and then fell to Penfield 21-25, but Its official; the eight time, clinched the championship in the Nassau County champion, girl’s fourth game, winning 25-22. volleyball team has captured their With a perfect record of first New York State title after win- 21 wins and zero losses, including ning their first Class AA Long Island winning the Nassau County, Long Championship.

Island, and New York State ChamThe New York State tourna- pionships, the Chiefs were able to ment was held at the Civic Center in virtually shut out their competition Glens Falls, New York. On Saturday, all season long, capping off a 60 win November 17, the girls went 5-1 in and one loss streak. the semi-finals, against Penfield, West Genesee, and Horseheads. The next day in the finals, the Chiefs defeated Penfield in the first two

BY MAXWELL SPARR PHOTO EDITOR

MAX SPARR // THE CHIEF

Letting the past seven LI Championships slip out of their grasp, the Chiefs knew that they had their work cut out for them. At the Class AA Southeast Regional Long Island Championship, the team lost the first game by a score of 20-25 in favor of the Ward Melville Patriots, but the Chiefs rallied back, by winning the next three games, with scores of 25-21, 25-20, and 25-17.

“My team is very talented

The all-state champs pose for a team photo. CONTRIBUTED BY TARA ANNUNZIATA

this year,” senior captain Janine Aldridge said. In the Long Island Championship game, Aldridge had 19 digs, 10 kills, and four blocks.

Also in the victory, senior captain Carolyn Furman had 35 assists, 12 digs, and four aces. “It’s never boring, we have fun every game,” Furman added after winning the County Championship.

Kelly Collins and Janine Aldridge were named to the alltournament team for Massapequa (21-0), which received the NYS sportsmanship award and went 5-1 in Saturday’s semifinals player pool against Penfield, West Genesee (Section III) and Horseheads (Section IV).

To add to the importance of the win, after the County Championship game, coach CarolAnn HabeebKiel, who for the past 20 years, has been building the program into what it is today said, “Last year the headline read Ward Melville tops Massapequa. We’d like to reverse that.”

Well this year she got her wish. For the past 20 years, coach Habeeb-Kiel has been building the program into what it is today.

FOOTBALL

Early Losses Erased By Winning Streak blown out by first ranked Farmingdale, the future for the Chiefs did not STAFF WRITERS look good; but that turned out not Massapequa has always to be the case. Without All County churned out powerhouse football running back Jonathan Pesce, out teams that have been the determining due to an injury to his shoulder, the factors in deciding divisional foes Chiefs suffered a big loss against strength. Simply put, if you don’t Farmingdale. Chiefs Head Coach Pat Nolan looked to junior running back Joe Cordeira for the next big game. Cordeira had 19 carries for 137 yards including a 65-yard catch which helped lead the team to a 40-20 win over the Hawks of Plainview-JFK. Reflecting upon these first four games of the season, if not for a few missed extra points the Chiefs could have easily been 3-1. During one game, the team displayed their passion and desire to win for the Chiefs when Von Bargen rolled left, saw not much room to run, but instead of running out of bounds, he lowered his shoulder MAX SPARR // THE CHIEF and ran over two defendbeat Massapequa, it’s no big deal be- ers before being pushed out. cause not many teams do, but don’t Now with Jonathan Pesce expect to contend in the playoffs. back facing Hempstead, the game

After a heartbreaking one was basically the “Jonathan Pesce point loss and absolutely getting show” as this senior running back

BY DAVID TROMPETER AND COREY CROSS-HANSEN

ran all over the Tigers defense running 13 times for 167 yards and three touchdowns defeating Hempstead 29-18.What was really significant in the game was that the Pequa defense stopped the Hempstead offense three times in their red zone.

With a two and two record the Chiefs schedule was going to be anything but easy. At Oceanside, the Sailors homecoming cheers turned quickly to homecoming jeers as the Chiefs won 22-20. Heading into Freeport with momentum, that soon changed as the only highlights of the game was a 53-yard run by running back Jonathan Pesce and Carl Iacona’s 15 yard catch for a Touchdown. But both the Devils defense and offense was too much for the Chiefs, with the Devils winning 35-12. The Chiefs then headed into the final game of the season against the Syosset Braves, which could’ve possibly determined who they would play in the playoffs.

The homecoming game for the chiefs was a wet and messy one as senior Matt Hurst ran for

26 carries for 117 yards and ran four yards into the endzone with 3:30 left in the fourth quarter. That was too much for the braves as they lost 28-19. The Chiefs entered the playoffs as the 5th seed, and fought hard against East Meadow. Even the season ended for the Chiefs during the first round of the playoffs, the season is one to remember for the Chiefs, for they had endured injuries and still battled with the prime competition.

MAX SPARR // THE CHIEF