December 2007

“ H o w t h e B e a r s m a k e t h e i r m a r k ” VOLUME II, ISSUE 2DECEMBER 2007

The Norwalk High School

Paw Print“Shh, I can’t hear the announcements,” is a phrase often said throughout Norwalk High School. Although the phones and an-nouncements may not be heard throughout the school, they are in working condition. “Right now, we are paying a price for construction, but no one should be worried. All of the phones work, so somehow ev-eryone will be able to get a hold of in an emergency. Safety isn’t an issue right now in this school…sanity is,” assures Principal Mecca. The phone system began making trou-ble the day it was installed. Teachers and students are being disorientated by the in-consistent sounds the phones make and do not make. “Usually you can’t hear the phones at all, but then the other day in English,

freaky music just started to come out,” Ste-ven Alcutt (‘09) said. Jenna Evarts (‘09) agreed with Alcutt, “The phones look exactly the same as the ones from last year, but now we can’t hear the important things in certain rooms and it gets frustrating.” The new phones were hooked up so that announcements can be “heard” through the phone itself. The problem is the volume deficiency,nottheeffectiveness. “There are different volume levels throughout the school,” Mecca said. “Like a lot of things right now, we’re just trying to work out the kinks.”

One student, Spencer Jacoby (‘11) says, “I don’t like them. They don’t work. Sometimes they don’t even ring, and the announcements are always too quiet.”

Mecca jokes about the complaints by saying, “No, everyone loves everything.” Noting, “I don’t know if we upset people

as much as we con-fuse them.”

He also adds, “The only alterna-tive to the phones is the principal running through the school yelling and screaming, ‘Alright I need ev-eryone’s attention! Everyone get out of the building!’”

Construction has put a damper on some things in the building includ-ingphonesandfiredrills. Although frustration seems to come easily in the school, problems are inevitable during this process.

“I’d love to have everything working 100%, and we’re slowly getting there…wherever there is.”

New fads continue to sweep the nation, just as they have for hundreds of years. However, the latest trends have become more permanent. Piercing has captivated a large percent-age of youth and can be seen everywhere: eyebrows, noses, lips,navels,andeveninthewebbingoffingers,necks,andmany other exotic places.

As the demand for piercing continues to grow, busi-ness booms for piercing and tattoo parlors. However, there are restrictions concerning who can be pierced. In Con-necticut, the law requires minors under the age of eighteen to have a consenting parent or guardian present for the pro-cedure. But these restrictions have not stopped those who are underage and intent on getting a piercing.

Manyminorshavebeenseekingunqualifiedassistance.Stephanie Toro (‘08) had a friend execute her piercing.

“I trusted my friend. I was underage and it was cheap,”

she explains. “We bought a clean needle and jewelry at a store and went back to her house, where she proceeded to pierce me.”

Kimberly Pratt (‘10) decided to have her nose pierced on impulse when a friend begged her to get it done with her. Like Toro, she had a friend perform the piercing. Her friend claimed to have had professional experience.

“My nose piercing was placed too high up and had started to become infected when I took it out. My industrial piercing was placed completely incorrectly and I had to re-move that one too. I had some concerns about having my friendpierceitbutIamfifteenanditwascheap.”

Piercing is more complicated than some people real-ize. Having a piercing done illegally puts a person at higher risk of infections. Complications vary depending on what part of the body is pierced.

Many people also do not realize there are certain areas that are safe to puncture and others that are not. Piercing Professional must be aware of nerves and veins. A novice

could easily make a fatal mistake. Oral piercing is especially delicate and

brings on a whole new set of potential dangers, as they can create teeth and gum problems. Teeth in constant contact with metal objects can wear down, chip, and become very sensi-tive.

The tongue is the most sensitive and risky place to pierce; it can lead to blockage of the airway, loss of taste, numbness, speech im-pediments, cellulitis in the mouth tissues, and excessive saliva production.

While piercing is a form of self expression one must be mindful of the consequences. Ask a professional questions, think a decision over carefully, and always have a piercing performed in a professional, sanitary environment.

Bonnie Bray ‘08Staff Writer

“Please Leave a Message after The Tone...”Chelsea jacoby ‘10Staff Writer

aCCESS aBetter gPaSara LeDuc ‘09Feature Editor

The Raven’s Nest located in the Liberty Square Plaza of Norwalk.

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redit:Bonnie

Bray

Piercing Passion at a Price

The ACCESS program at NHS is available to help ath-letes raise their GPA’s to meet sport standards. Brien McMahon and NHS started it last year.

“The ACCESS Program is a place for students who have received between a 1.5 and 1.69 G.P.A to get the help that they may need in their studies and do their homework for that night,” said program tutor Dan Segers.

As long as participants have less than three cuts in the program and maintain a weekly GPA of at least a 1.7, they can play sports.

“The Board of Education and Children’s Founda-tion look at the schools to see the success rate. That will determine whether we continue. The statistics say positive things. Hopefully we’ll be able to maintain it in future years,” Wayne Mones, NHS Athletic Direc-tor, comments.

Currently, nine students are involved in the twen-ty slot program.

“It’s good because if you’re not eligible to play atfirst, itmakesyoueligible. Itgivesyoua secondchance,” says Andrew Merritt (‘09), ACCESS partici-pant.

Teachers and coaches like Larry Anastasia, with athletes in ACCESS also like what they see.

“Of course I think the program is good,” said the football coach and science teacher with athletes and students in ACCESS. “I think it’s a great program be-cause it gives the kids a place to do their homework uninterrupted with no distractions.”

Day by day, ACCESS students are working to make their GPA’s go up to allow our sports teams to improve.

Uncooperative phones that have replaced last years.

I N T H I S I S S U E :News........................................1Feature Opinion..........................5Arts and Entertainment...............6Feature.......................................8Editorial................................10Staff..........................................10Opinion...................................11Sports.....................................15

NEWS FEATURE A & E SPORTS TABLE OF CONTENTS

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redit:Kelly

Mills

NEWS THE PAW PRINTDECEMBER 2007PagE 2

Candlelight

The annual Candlelight Holiday Concert will be held on December 17, 18, and 19. Tickets are $2.00 each and can either be bought early or at the door. See Mrs. Pettibone for information on buying tickets early.

Holiday Break

There will be no school on De-cember 24 through January 1 due to the Holiday Break.

Second Quarter Closes/Midterms

Second quarter closes on Janu-ary 24, 2008. Report cards will be distributed on Febru-ary 1, 2008. Midterms will be-gin Thursday, January 17 and will end Wednesday, January 23.

a/B Schedule

On February 1, 2008, the AABB Schedule will be changed back to the A/B Schedule from last year.

Poinsettia/Mistletoe Ball

The 44th annual Poinsettia & Mistletoe Ball will be held at Cha-tham Manor at 7:00pm. Mistle-toe will take place on Friday, January 4, 2008 and Poinsettia on Saturday, January 5, 2008.The price of the event is $80.00. The deadline for the registra-tion is Thursday, December 13.

January SaT

The January SAT will take place on Saturday, January 26, 2008. The registration deadline is De-cember 26, 2007. The fee for the Reasoning Test is $43.00.

CNN Presidential Debates

CNN will be hosting the presi-dential debates all through Janu-ary 2008. In South Carolina, the Democratic debate will take place on Monday, January 21, 2008. The Republican debate will take place in California on Wednesday Janu-ary 30, 2008. On Thursday January 31, 2008, another Democratic de-bate will take place in CA. Check out cnn.com for more information.

Michael Vick Receives Sentence

On December 11, Michael Vick was sentenced to 23 months in pris-on. Vick will remain in prison till at least July 2009, even if he meets the federal standard of 54 days per year reduction for good behavior. His $130 million contract with the NFL was suspended without pay.

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N E W S B R I E F S :

A new group of vegans, known as “freegans,” are taking the spotlight and changing the way society views alternative life-style. Accordingto“Freegan.info,”freegansaredefinedas“peo-ple who employ alternative strategies for living based on lim-ited participation in the conventional economy and minimal consumption of resources.” Freegans combine the ideals of veganism, which forbids its followers from consuming any animal products, with a com-plete boycott of the economic system. Simply put, devotees will only use and consume “free” products. Urban foraging is the main strategy employed to maintain a “free” lifestyle. In order to gather food and other material goods, freegans rummage through garbage receptacles, includ-ing the dumpsters located behind businesses, residences, and offices. Food, beverages, toiletries, videos, music, clothing,vitamins and almost all consumer goods are gathered through “dumpster diving.” The majority of the goods are clean, reus-able and in perfect or near perfect condition. Freeganism is not limited to material possessions. Follow-ers also use eco-friendly transportation and opt to walk, roll-erblade, skate, and bike. They also save money by becoming “squatters” or people who occupy abandoned buildings. Because freegans often do not have to pay rent or purchase basic necessities, they are able to indulge in voluntary unem-ployment. Instead of working, they spend time with their fami-lies and often volunteer for local, as well as national, freegan causes. Freegans are motivated by the injustices they recognize in modern society. They are frustrated with the endless abuse, in-cluding animal testing and environmental pollution. By con-suming waste rather than producing it, freegans are part of the

“go green” movement. Freegan philosophy is a direct response to the capitalist system, in which the means of production are ownedandoperatedsolelyforprofit.Byboycottingallconsumergoods, they believe they are boycotting capitalism. Freeganism is spreading. The group Food Not Bombs gath-ers food through “dumpster diving” and prepares meals shared with others in public places. Websites like “Freecycle” list free items. “Freemeets,”or events in which gathered free goods are shared, have been held around the country. Freeganism is an alternative lifestyle that is not for every-one.However,freegansbelievetheirinfluencewillgrowassoci-ety recognizes the “go green” movement.

The New Vegans?Katie Rende ‘08Staff Writer

Photo Credit: google.com

Hurricane vs. FireMelissa Boccanfuso ‘08Staff Writer

Does it make sense that California’s getting more attention then Katrina? Or are we just going to have to wait and see what really happens in result of the tragic disasters that are tearing up part of the United States. On August 29, 2005, Hurricane Katrina makes a landfall on the Gulf Coast, destroying lives, leveling homes and leav-ing thousands of survivors with the same story. Eighty percent ofNewOrleanswasflooded,withsomepartsunder15feetofwater. Thousands of people killed and injured millions with out homes, one year later; many still coped with Katrina’s devasta-tion. Some had moved forward, but for others recovery was at a standstill. On October 21, 2007, California experienced a huge impact left tohandle today, the “wildfire.” Thefire chasedawayonemillionpeopleoutoftheirhomesandtowns.Thisfirehasburned85,800acresandisfifty-fivepercentcontained.Thefirestart-ed October 21st and burned Harris Ranch Road and both sides of Highway 94 in Portrero in San Diego County. There have been twenty civilian and sixteenfirefighter injuries, aswell asonedeathonthisfire.188homes,onecommercialpropertyand222 outbuildings have been destroyed. With that, 252 additional structures are damaged. Damage assessments are still being con-ducted. 1,500 homes are still threatened. ArethefiresinCaliforniagettingmoreattentionandspecialneed then the victims still left in New Orleans affected by Hur-ricane Katrina? Mr. Seaburg, a social studies teacher at Norwalk Public School, said, “It is not a competition, it’s only a week old. It is a moreaffluentpartofthecounty.Therearebiggerhomesandsuchthat were destroyed. It’s not a competition. We didn’t respond well enough to Katrina. I do think that Katrina is a bit forgotten, plus they made a T.V. show called Kville, about the hurricane.” ThefiresinCaliforniahavemoreofachancetogetabiggersupport system because Arnold Schwarzenegger is the governor, and many celebrities are without a home today. Today, the country will just have to wait and see what hap-pens between the horrible disasters that happen in New Orleans and the “burning of California.” To make a donation for California’s residents, or the New Or-leansvictims,andotherneeds,makingafinancialcontributionisthe best way to help.

Freegans “dumpster diving” for food and other products.

To make a donation: Call 1-800-HELP-NOW

Make an online donation at redcross.orgContact your local Red Cross Chapter

First it was a minor issue, then it was a major issue, and now it is becoming a problem. The violence in Norwalk is causing peoplewhoarenotinvolvedinthefightstobecomeinjured.The biggest problem some say is that there is no way to stop it because every rule thathasbeenmade,peoplefind theirway around it. Most students think that violence can be controlled, but thefightersdonotwantitcontrolledbecausetheyfeelobli-gatedtogetridoftheirangertotheextentoffightingwithoneanother. Katlyn Keys (‘09) said, “It really sucks and hurts to know that violence is going on in my own town.” Katlyn continued, “I don’t live here in Norwalk anymore but what I do see when I go to Norwalk for school is heartbreaking enough.” OfficerMichaelMurray,policeofficerinNorwalkfor22yearssaid,“Out in thecommunity therearea lotoffights,

stabbings, and shootings that are very common in Norwalk.” He continued, “There are also a whole lot of injuries. I try to mediate situations in school where in the community it is way different because violence just becomes an automatic ar-rest.” At NHS on Friday, September 28, 2007, a teacher re-ceivedaconcussionandabruiseduetoafightthatoccurredin her room. “My side effects were minor. You know dizzy, sleepy, and a bit lethargic. I was more scared about what was going tohappentothestudentsthatwerefightingratherthanwor-ryingaboutme.Infact,afterthefight,Ididn’tevenrealizethat I had been hurt until about 20 minutes later because I was so scared”, explained the teacher. “I just think that it is really sadthatstudentsthinkthattheyhavetofighttogetridofagrudge.” “I began to work at your school because the school want-edtostartanofficerresourcecenter.Theyhadaproblemfind-ingapoliceofficerwhowouldbewillingtodoitandIsaidthatIwoulddoit.”OfficerMurraycontinues,“Theviolencein Norwalk High School is way easier to handle rather than the community because student have way more supervision than the citizens of Norwalk and the students know that they can’t get away with it.”

Violence in NHSDanielle Violet ‘09Staff Writer

“It really sucks and hurts to know that violence is going on in my own town.”

-Katlyn Keys (‘09)

NEWSTHE PAW PRINT DECEMBER 2007 PagE 3

Photo Credit: google.com

An all too familiar ring of the fire alarm and studentsburst into the hallways, making their way outside into the open, away from the normality that is their classroom. To many teachers, this ‘break’ provides an unaccept-abledisruption.Lessonplansnowmustbemodified tokeep the classes in sync with one another, and when stu-dents return, they are disruptive and unfocused. “Ifeelthefiredrillsareadisruption.It’shardtogetback on task, and the beautiful sunny weather doesn’t help either,” stated Mrs. Munrow, head of the Science Department. With some teachers, every minute is planned out in their lessonplans.Whenmultiplefiredrillsoccur,cru-cial time is lost and cannot be restored. That is especially detrimental if the time was dedicated to preparation for a test or project. Mrs. Lopreiato, of the World Language Department, continued, commenting, “The problem is that we have

hadacombinationoffiredrillsforobviousreasonsandsome because of the students. It’s very problematic.” Although many are not happy with the loss of time, some are thankful for the cooperation amongst the stu-dentbodyforgettinginandoutduringthefiredrills. “I think the students have been really good in going aboutthefiredrills.Ireallyappreciatethat,”commentedMrs. Abrahamsen of the English Department. Although some teachers are getting frustrated with the constant intrusive drills, some are learning to cope with them Mr. Segers, also of the English Department, gives advice on how to handle the fire drills. “We’re at thepoint that if you don’t laugh when they happen, you’ll drive yourself crazy,” he said. In the end, there is one thing that puts some teachers at ease. Mrs. Cossuto, of the World Language Department jokes, “Although it disrupts the constancy of the class-room, it is nice to see the sunshine once in a while.”

Many students in Norwalk High have opinions about things that should be done in school, yet they do not take the initiative to make their voice heard. For senior, Anastasia Du-bose, this was not the case. Anastasia has been known to be somewhat of a class clown, joking in classrooms and hall-ways with teachers and class-mates. Some of her peers did not think she was serious about having a school-sponsored tal-ent show. “Since nobody usually takes Anastasia seriously, I think a lot of people thought that she was joking around when she started the petition,” said Alexandra Duncan (‘08).

But little to their knowledge, she was quite serious about passing around a petition to obtain a set of signa-tures.

After presenting her idea to the Dean of Students, John Albrecht, he informed Dubose she would need 400 signatures for her idea to be considered amongst the ad-ministration. In a brief inter-view, she revealed the true reasons she began this peti-tion.

Marcus: “What made you want to start a petition?”

Anastasia: “Mainly be-cause Brien McMahon has a talent show. I feel that it was

very unfair that only one out of the three high schools in Norwalk gets to have one.” M: “Around how many signatures do you have at this time?”

A: “I’m almost done. I have about 380.” M: “What is the general feedback you have gotten from the school population?” A: “They were very excited about the idea. Many are anticipating having the talent show.” Although the idea is becoming more popular around “Bear Country,” there are some strict constrictions that prevent the show from taking place. The main issue is where to hold the event. The easiest and most obvious place would be to hold it in the Nor-walk High auditorium, if only it could work around the fall comedy and spring musical which occupy the auditorium from January to late April. “We’d love to have the talent show, but it is the audi-torium that stops us,” said Junior Class Advisor Amanda Bomann.“Itisveryhardtofindatimewhentheaudito-rium would be available. Rehearsals would be necessary to create such a show, and it is very limited with the audi-torium being occupied throughout most of the year.” Anastasia’s goal may or may not come true, but hav-ing the courage to vocalize your opinion is important in having a successful high school experience.

Every year, credit card companies target college students and young adults to apply for credit cards. Credit card debt is becoming very common among college students. Student loans play a major factor in debt among college students. Credit card companies set up booths on college campuses, making it easy for students to apply. Sometimes companies offer free gifts to entice applicants to their cards, causing students to overlook hidden application fees or high interest rates. Points or rewards are given for every dollar spent on the card, futher entic-ing students to spend more money than they can possibly afford.“I would probably be tempted to spend money, which is why I have no desire to have a credit card,” stated Alexa DiCambio (‘08). Not only do free gifts and rewards attract students to credit cards, but they offer easy cash for college essen-tials, such as books and clothes. Instead of having parents wire money to them, students can use their credit cards to pay off those large expenses.

“The average undergraduate has about $1,843 in credit card debt,” stated Nellie Mae, a Student Loan Pro-vider. Students that start out with high credit card debt are most likely to have a bad credit history. Not only do cred-it cards cause debt among college students, but student loans also play a large part as well. When students want to attend a college or a university that costs about $30,000 each year, they usually end up taking out student loans to

pay for their tuition. Ac-cording to statistics pro-vided by Mae, two-thirds of four year undergraduate students will graduate with some debt. By their senior year

of college, students are expected to have about $20,000 in debt due to student loans alone. Most loan companies have a high interest rate which will most likely increase overtime. To prevent credit card debt, make sure to ask about the application charges and other hidden fees that may be applied to the credit card. Keep in mind that when stu-dents are going off to college do not apply for a student loan with a high interest rate, and remember to apply for financialaidandotheroptionsbeforecommittingtostu-dent loans.

Senior Student Voices Out about School Talent ShowMarcus Armistead ‘08Staff Writer

College Credit Card CatastropheSarah Arndt ‘08Distribution Advisor

Photo Credit: M

arcus Arm

istead

Senior Student Anastasia Dubose

“The average undergraduate has about $1,843 in credit card debt.”

-Nellie Mae, Student Loan Provider

Julianne Rogan ‘08Peer Editor

Some students at Norwalk High School take music lessons during school hours, despite the frustration of many teach-ers. Some faculty members feel that it is not right for stu-dents to be taken away from academics for these lessons. “When you take students out of classes, it affects their academic performance,” said Mr. Hariton, as a supporter of Norwalk High’s music program. He does not pinpoint

lessons as the only problem; however, he feels the same about guidance appointments, col-lege visits, meet-ings, driving tests, etcetera. “It sends a message that what’s going on in my class is not as important,” he continued. Stu-dents, on the other hand, generally support the idea of lessons and believe they are helpful.

“The in-school lessons are helpful in areas such as sight singing, and they are a great resource if one does not have the time or means to take lessons outside of school,” said Amy Cohen (‘08). Yvette Gonzalez (‘11) agreed with Cohen. “The band director helps us out on the music and helps us understand what we’re playing. You can take advantage of the extra help if you don’t understand a part in the music.” Although the lessons rotate so that students do not continuously miss the same class, it still affects teach-ers who have very little time with their students, such as Health teacher, Mrs. Moffett. “We’re supposed to have the right to say no and some-times students understand that. And sometimes they have an attitude and go anyway,” Mrs. Moffett said. Some stu-dents believe it is their responsibility to pick what classes they can afford to miss and make up the work. “Myschoolworkalwayscomesfirst,soIonlytakealessonifIfeelconfidentthatIcanmissonedayandstilldo well in that class,” Cohen added. Then again, some stu-dents enjoy lessons because of the fact that they get to miss class.

Safety Provision Or Pure Nuisance?John Paschalidis ‘08Staff Writer

Photo Credit: w

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Phone: 203-847-5875Fax: 203-849-3015

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Music Mayhem

NEWSTHE PAW PRINTDECEMBER 2007PagE 4

Mr. Anastasia’s Meterology Class Weather Prediction

Danielle Kearns '08Peer Editor

I guarantee No Keys Involved

NorwalkHighSchoolisfilledwithvariousclubsand activities for students, but none are as promi-nent as Key Club. With global relevance, Key Club is the only club in the school that works with an overhead or-ganization to provide aid to countries around the world in addition to local volunteer activities. The club was established in 1925 in order to encourage junior leadership. Today, Key Cub exists in more than 5,000 high school campuses international-ity. Every year, two hundred or more new Key Clubs are added to this fast-growing organization. The NHS Key Club is headed by faculty advi-sor Michelle Todeschini. This is her second year in the position, taking over for long time advisor Georgia Keogh after her retirement. The group is also led by four student officers: PresidentDanielle Kearns (‘08), Vice President Anna Gryglewska (‘08), Secretary Emma Crisci (‘09), and Treasurer Laura Hatchman (‘09). The Key Club’s role is to make students aware of various volunteer opportunities around the city and world and to encourage involvement. “Key Club is an excellent way to get in-volved, especially if you have a packed schedule. The meetings are not too long; the events are not that gruesome; and, although it sounds cheesy,

it makes you feel that you did something worth-while,” commented Laura Hatchman. This year, Key Club is doing its best to make a name for itself. It has been established, but not highly publicized, in NHS for at least twenty years, but has never earned considerable attention for its actions. “This year already looks a thousand times bet-ter than last year. I feel that the leaders are all com-mitted to the club and work well together. Hope-fully, the momentum we have gained will continue for the rest of the year,” added Hatchman. If anything can provide even more incentive,

it may be the $1,500 scholarship that the Kiwanis Club awards to two deserving seniors each year for outstanding leadership and volunteer hours. This year alone, the Key Club has raised over $200 from candy sales for Trick-or-Treat for UNICEF and donated almost $400 in total to the cause. There have also been bake sales and various fundraisers to raise money for other global chari-ties and personal projects. The spring promises

to be even more eventful with the annual March of Dimes Heart Walk in May, as well as student-aided functions. Meetings are held on Mondays in Room 104A andlastfifteenminutes.Allstudentsarewelcomeand are encouraged to come. For more information, contact [email protected] or visit keyclub.org.

Students are faced with peer pres-sure every day, whether it is in school, work, or at home. “Peer pressure can lead to experimentation with drugs and alcohol, sex, skipping school, and various high-risk behaviors,” ac-cording to the Peer Pressure article from AspenEducationGroup.com. Some students come to school intoxicated, drunk and/or high. This problem impacts both the schools and students. Officer Murray said, “Com-ing to school drunk or high has an impact on every student’s educa-tion; the ones doing it, and those being disrupted by it.” The Social Worker in Nor-walk High’s School Based Health Center, Glenn Shephard adds, “It worries me to know that kids come like this to school. What they are really doing is cheating them-selves out of an important part of life and ruining their education.” “I think the reason they do it is because they are ignorant, im-mature and do not take their edu-cation seriously,” agrees Ashley Mims (‘08). Security and the Dean of Stu-dents get tipped off by teachers and students, but there is really never a way to prove it. “It is very hard to prove when a student is actually under the in-fluence,especiallyifmarijuanaissuspected. Our only recourse is to recommend to a parent to have the child tested,” said Dean Albrecht.

“One might readily argue that teenage drug abuse has reached epidemic proportions on some college campuses and high school facilities,” as stated by Teenage-DrugAbuse.us. “Alcohol – one of the most misused drugs today – is also one of the most popular and readily available of all types of drugs and controlled substances found on high school campuses.” Although alcohol is the easi-est drug to get a hold of, Dean Albrecht’s concern is marijuana. “The biggest consequence from students starting so young is the fact that they do not know what was put into the weed, what fertilizer was used, or if it was laced with even worse drugs,” he said. This type of issue is a problem at Norwalk High School that has not changed very much through-out the years. “It hasn’t really gone up or down, which is a good and bad thing,”verifiedOfficerMurray. “How long have drugs been around? They are not going any-where. The only way to try to prevent it is to take care of the students; that is why we always worry about you guys leaving campus,” said Dean Albrecht. The punishment for this type of offense is ten days suspension, a superintendent hearing, police involvement and drug counseling is required.

Erika Molina '08Staff Writer

Drug Use in School

kelly mills '08Photo Editor

Norwalk High gives Back

On Friday, December 7th, the National Honors So-ciety hosted an American Red Cross Blood drive in thegymnasium.Itwasthefirstoftwoblooddrivesthat the National Honor Society hosts annually. To be eligible, a donor must be at least 17 years old, therefore most students who donated were se-niors and juniors. A donor must also be at least 110 pounds and meet a few other requirements that en-sure donated blood is healthy. The drive was open to both students and faculty at Norwalk High School and there were 71 donors who participated. Many students who donated were nervous about the actual process but happy to participate. After donating, Steven Kekelik(‘08) said, “It’s kind of cool that in a couple of days my blood will help

someone in need.” According to Joan Bennet, Account Execu-tive for the American Red Cross, that need is very high right now because “the holidays and the summerare themostdifficult timesof theyearfor the Red Cross.” She was happy about the large student turnout on Friday because “kids are the backbone of the program in Connecticut.” Those who donated are eligible to give again in 56 days and are encouraged to visit the Red Cross Donation Center at 596 Westport Ave., next to Panera Bread.

Blood Drive Setup in Gym

Photo Credit: K

elly Mills

Will there be snow this holiday? Everybody wants to wake up during winter vacation, look out their win-dow and see a blanket of snow covering the ground. Since we haven’t seen any snow over the past couple of years on December 25th,

one might be weary that snow will not fall on that morning. Meteorologist predict, on the map to the right,that Connecticut has a 25-50% chance of see-ing snow on December 25, 2007.

This map shows the prob-ability of having at least one inch of snow on the ground this Christmas morn-ing. Until the week before Christmas, this map is based on historical climatology. During the fi nal days before December 25, the map pro-vides an actual forecast for this year.

weather.com

No Health Center?Jade thompson '08Staff Writer

Besides the construction this year, everything seems to be in place, ex-cept for one thing, the Health Center. Because of the construction the health center has been closed and not many have realized that. Mrs. Fessler, the new health center nurse says, “The delay in open-ing is because of the construction and because we had to completely moveeverythingoutbecausewegotnewfloors.” Mrs. Fessler also states that, “I do not think that students were even tooworried about thehealth center atfirst because schoolwas juststarting, and we have been busy because students needed their 10th grade physicals and their sports physicals so some students should know now.” The health center’s purpose is to provide students with medicine or to get health check ups. In order to be applicable for the health center parents must sign a slip stating that the health center staff is able to give whatever a student needs to make them feel better. The health center’s school hours are open from 9am-2pm. Mrs. Fessler says, “I am in the health center at 8:30 in the mornings. Thenewnurseisnowavailableonthe3rdfloorinroom301Caroundthe C- house area.

To Donate Blood or Plasma Contact American Red Cross at:Phone: 1-800-GIVELIFE (1-800-448-3543)

Mr. Anastasia’s Meterology Class Weather PredictionMr. Anastasia’s Meterology Class Weather PredictionThis map shows the prob-ability of having at least one inch of snow on the ground this Christmas morn-ing. Until the week before Christmas, this map is based on historical climatology. During the fi nal days before December 25, the map pro-vides an actual forecast for this year.

FEaTURE OPINIONTHE PAW PRINT DECEMBER 2007 PagE 5

June is the month of graduation, the month where everyone leaves everything behind. There will be no more homerooms, or lunch shifts. The question that is always asked is, “So, what are you doing after graduation?” The answer is whether your plans may be go-ing straight to college, just going work, or tak-ingayearoff.Beforeheorshemakesthefinaldecision, they need to get the advice they need in order to get a head start in life. Students that are concerned about col-lege should talk to someone that would guide them. Speak to a guidance counselor, a teacher orevensomeoneinthefieldofwhatyouaremajoring it can be a nurse, technician, lawyer, or a doctor.

Taking the time off may give the student a clearer idea of what he or she may want in life, instead of feeling pressured by just going off to college unprepared. The student may want to take a year off, simply because he or she wants to be stress-free from getting up in themorning,orstayinguplateatnightfinish-ing an essay that is due the next day. A student also worries about the school expenses, taking the time off can also be bet-ter for the student. Having a full time job can prepare a student to save money or plan for him or her future. Preparing for the future is a big step for a student, whether or not he or she may want to continue their education, taking time off, or justgoingstraight toaworkfield. Thiscanbenefit the student’s inwhat they are goingto do in life no matter what the outcome may be.

The stress of college causes both under-graduate students and adults anxiety; this constant worry causes a dizzy feeling spin to one’s head. All the necessities… SAT scores, ACT scores, all the extra time one did or didn’t put in. “Make you want to pull your hair out?” This stress applies to all- sophomores, juniors, and seniors. In life peers will al-ways be hassling their youths about col-lege. Where do you want to go to school? What do you want to study? How far away are the schools that you’re looking at? These questions will carry on forever as

they become more and more persistent. School starts, the bell rings, students don’t think much of it until one hears the word “college,” or “future.” Is seventeen or eighteen a mature enough age to venture into the real world? Is it an established age for one to decide on a primary path to their future? For some people, school is a work-force. Youths without knowledge of con-sent are launched into a scheduled school-ingroutinebytheirparents.Fromagefiveto sixteen students do not have an option of what they want to do. This standstill later erupts into a whirl pool of questions one is left to decide amongst themselves. Seniors, now is not the time to beat

yourself up about your slacker ways and not pursuing “perfect report cards.” There is really no point for one to wallow in guilt about failures to join even a few clubs or pick at least one interesting hobby that might have made them look ‘different’ from the millions of other applicants. Col-lege will always be there, it’s not going anywhere. “There is a college out there for every-one,” ensured Mrs. Verel. As a guidance counselor of the school, she has set many ambitions and goals for each individual student. Some students feel the “pull your hair,” tension as they apply or wait for acceptance. “I’m very very stressed out,”

said Brittney Pataky (‘08). “College is the one thing that can make or break your ca-reer path and your future. It scares a lot of people and makes them nervous.” Yet there are other students who are looking for the door to discover what is outside Norwalk High. “I can’t wait for it to be over,” replies Alli Tornatore. “Senior year is what I’ve been looking forward to since Iwas first a freshman here atNor-walk High,” she continues, “I can’t believe that this experience is almost over.” Advice to all students is to never put off until last minute; whether one is de-scribed as a worrier or not; there is nothing that can make up for procrastination.

Pull Your Hair Out; College StressHeather Peden ‘08Staff Writer

Life After High School

Post-High School PlansKaiesha Johnson ‘08Staff Writer

Doing It On Your OwnErika Molina ‘08Staff Writer

Norwalk High School unconsciously fails to properly prepare students for col-lege life after graduation. Formany,goingofftocollegemeansbeingonone’sownforthefirsttime.Living on your own takes a lot of responsibility that does not come naturally and is not always self-taught. The responsibilities of taking care of oneself require experience that should start in high school. Such small privileges that build on responsibility are the allowance of open campus, free periods in lieu of assigned study halls, and being able to eat outside. Norwalk High over-protectively holds the hands of their students and leads them to graduation without ever loosening their grip along the way. Students are under constant surveillance as lunch is only allowed to be eateninthecafeteria.However,inpost-graduationlifelunchisnotconfinedtoa single area. This freedom of being able to eat wherever one pleases teaches the responsibility of time management. Students would not be told when they need to stop eating and proceed to class. Instead, they would need to keep track of time and get to class on time on their own. The coddling ways of Norwalk High in which students are told where to be and what they can and cannot do there, are very thoughtful and appreciated; however, they also set students back in preparation for college. Being pampered in high school creates an atmosphere of anxiety when students reach college as they feel panic living on their own without constant direction. High schools need to step up and teach these responsibilities early on.

Are We Being Well Prepared For College?Rachel Holmes ‘08Staff Writer

Good Luck to all Seniors finishing their last

year at NHS!

life, instead of feeling pressured by just going life, instead of feeling pressured by just going Rachel Holmes ‘08Rachel Holmes ‘08

scores, ACT scores, all the extra time one scores, ACT scores, all the extra time one scores, ACT scores, all the extra time one

Thanks seniors for ask-

ing me to say goodbye after knowing you just three months.

As my fi rst senior class at NHS, and with a tear in my eye, I thank you for the

most part resembling those adults that are still so much involved with NHS; the Norwalk Alumni Association and the Fathers Club. A few things to remember as you leave me. For those of you going to college - you will need to learn how to manage your free time. For

those who are going into the work force - remember that every job is a reco-

mendation for the next one. See ya, Mr. Mecca

As a senior our biggest concern is no longer style, relationships, summer plans, or even what is going on for the weekend. What most of us think about each and every day is our future and how we plan to pursue the dreams and goals we have thought about. Even if people may be confused by what they want to do for the rest of their lives, they at least go to college to get the mandatory subjects done. On the other hand some people may go intotheArmyorjustwork.WhichiswhereIfitin;Iplantotakeayearoffaftergraduationandwork. Although many people may not agree with this decision, it is what I want and what I feel is best for me. I know that if I go to college now it will be a waste of my parent’s money because the state of mind I am in does not motivate me. My GPA is not the best so I do not really have another choice besides to go to NCC, and there is nothing that pushes me to want to go there now. Not that there is anything wrong with NCC, but I just always thought that when I went to college, I would be going away. Many of my close friends, and even teachers told me that it is not a valid reason, and that Iwouldnotwanttogoback.Idefinitelywanttogobackandhavethoughtsinthebackofmymind that keeps me motivated. I do not want to be judged as many Hispanics are, that we do not seek for a higher educa-tion. Thatstatementisnottrue,Idefinitelywantaneducation;I want to pursue my dream of becoming a Kindergarten teacher and nothing or no one is going to get in my way of this.

THE PAW PRINTDECEMBER 2007PagE 6 aRTS & ENTERTaINMENT

The Nutcracker, a Holiday Tradition Year To Year

Spotlight On Chelsea Murphy, Experienced Dancer

Julie Sheiber ‘08Staff Writer

Photo Credit: rosecentertheater.com

“Dancing Through Life”:a Dancer’s Personal accountLexi LoRusso ‘08Staff Writer

The Nutcracker ballet is a holiday tradition that has brought people together for centuries, and every year thousands are whisked away by the captivating story. “ThefirsttimeIsawThe Nutcracker onstage made me like ballet,” said Chelsea Murphy (‘08) . The story made her realize that she wanted to pursue dance. She later joined a dance school and participated in many productions of The Nutcracker. The Nutcracker is a story ballet that was based on a book called “The Nut-cracker and the Mouse King,” written by German author E.T.A. Hoffman and published in 1816. In 1844 it was revised by French author Alexander Dumas Pere to appeal to children. In 1891 choreographer Marius Petipa collaborated with composer Pytor Llich Tchaikovsky to create the Nutcracker ballet. The Nutcracker is about a girl named Clara who attends her parents’ Christmas party, and is given a nutcracker doll by her uncle. Clara ends up falling asleep and the rest of the ballet is her dream. At twelve o’clock the toys come alive and in her dreams Clara wakes up tofindabattlebetweenalife-sizenutcrackerandthemouseking.The Nut-

cracker prince defeats the mice and takes Clara on a magical journey to the Land of Snow and the Kingdom of the Sugar Plum fairy, where the Sugar Plum fairy commands the kingdom to dance for Clara and the Prince. As Clara’s dream comes to an end, the prince takes her back home where she wakes up holding the Nutcracker, left to wonder if it was all a dream. The Nutcracker is a story ballet, meaning it conveys a message to au-diences through the silent language of dance. People gather around the television, a book, or to watch a live performance of The Nutcracker around the holidays each year. The Nutcracker is one of the most widely recognized ballets in the world. Its popularity grows amongst little chil-dren and families who make it a tra-dition to see The Nutcracker every year.

Every issue of “The Paw Print”, a senior that is involved with any type of art is chosen to have the “spotlight” on them. This issue the “spotlight” is on Chelsea Murphy, who has been dancing since the age of six and cannot stop. She is in the Jazzworx company and was dance captain of last years Spring musical West Side Story. Kelly Mills recently sat down with Murphy and asked her a few questions.Kelly: Why do you love to dance?Chelsea: I love to dance because it is the only way for me to express myself. I think that everyone has a certain outlet that they are meant to use in order to get all of their inner emotions out, and dancing is mine. Also, I have been doing it for so long that I do not even think about having to do it anymore. It is so much a part of me, I couldn’t hate dance even if I tried. K: When did you start dancing?C: I started dancing when I was six.K: What studio do you dance at?C: I dance at Jazzworx Dance Center and have been a mem-ber of the company, Jazzart, for the past three years. I am also Co-captain of the company. K: What dance classes are you currently taking? What is your weekly dance schedule like?C: Myweeklyscheduleisinsane.Idancefortwentytotwenty-fivehoursaweek.MondayIdancefrom 6:30-9:30 and have Jazz and Contemporary,Tuesday- 5-9:30 Lyrical, Ballet, Pointe;

Wednesday- 6:30-10:30 Hip Hop; Jazz Thursday- 5-9:30 Jazz, Company Rehearsal; Fri-day- 3:30-5 Ballet; Saturday- 10:30-2 Jazz, Company Rehearsal; Sunday- 11-12 Com-pany Rehearsal .K: Which type of dance is your favorite?C: Jazz is my favorite because its strong and fast. It is not like any other type of dance

and it keeps you in great shape because it takes so much strength to pull of the large moves so quickly.K: Have you ever danced competitively? C: No, I have never danced competitively because I believe that dance is an art form and should have to have certain require-ments. Also, in competition schools, all the dancers dance ex-actly the same and I think that takes away part of the beauty of dance,whichistolookateachdancerseparatelyandfigureoutwhat their body is good at. K: Do you plan on continuing dance in college? Where are you planning on attending?C: Yes I plan on double majoring in college in dance and some-thing else I have not yet decided on. I am applying to Sarah Law-rence, Temple, Muhlenberg, and UMASS- Amherst.K: Do you want to dance professionally? If not, do your future plans include dancing?

C: Yes, I do want to dance professionally because I love the feel-ing you get from being in a company. You get really close to the people you dance with and they become family. I will miss that if I do not get to dance in a professional com-pany. Also, the best thing is being able to make money doing what you love, so dancing professionally is my goal.

Photo Credit: A

my C

ohen

So many thoughts are running through my head as I stand on the stage looking at all the empty seats, not knowing what to expect. The stage looks beautiful and clean, ready for my performance. Big, bright lights are shining in my face while stage managers are talking about what they are going to do next. While getting ready, my observations came from back-stage as hundreds of people start entering the theatre. Put-ting on my costume, getting my hair and make-up done, andfinallyputtingmypointeshoeson. This is what I have been waiting for since September

2006. Now, May 13th, 2007, my heart is pounding and chills are going up and down my spine. In just a few min-utes, what has been worked so hard on all year will be per-formed for everyone. Being called to the stage, this is it. My performance is just seconds away.As the dance ahead of mine ends, all that’s left to do is take one deep breath before entering the stage. The moment my song starts, there are no thoughts go-ing through my mind except dancing my best. I practiced this over and over again knowing it would be flawless.Thisismytimetoshineanditisfinallyhappening. Not even thinking about the steps, just performing for four minutes on stage was an amazing experience. As soon as the music ended, the audience was clapping and

screaming. Returning backstage, my teacher ran up to me in tears telling me how proud she was. Dance is my life. It takes my mind off things and brings me to another place. Per-forming for hundreds of people is the best way to show everyone who I am. Every rehearsal, every per-formance, there is nothing else I would rather be do-ing.

Background artwork: Melissa Boccanfuso ‘08

Rumors have been spreading about a new phone being created by Google. Many are confused about Google’s announcement on the new product, interpreting the message to say that a possible Google phone may be in the works. In reality, what Google really said was that there may be a chance for a phone in the future but there are no plans for the phone at this mo-ment. As rumors would have it the Google phone or “Gphone” was sup-posedly a blackberry look-a-like and exclusively linked to T-mobile. Re-ally the Gphone is a Linux-based software platform for mobile phones

and other mobile devices, that Google has in production. The Gphone is, at best, software pieces that a phone maker can put together to create a base for a potential phone. The plat-formiscompletelyflexiblewithnorestrictiononhowsmartthepotential phone can be In addition to the software pieces, Google is planning on de-veloping a special web browser for mobile phones and devices. The web browser will tailor many of its applications like Google Maps, Video, and Gmail, to out do the search and map-ping software currently of-fered on most wirelessdevices.

Bryant tabb ‘08Staff Writer

The New gphone: and The Rumors Keep On Coming

Photo Credit:w

ww

.smh.com

Kelly mills ‘08Photo Editor

Photo Credit: crow

npointchristian.org

Chelsea jumping in the air enjoying the art of movement

THE PAW PRINT DECEMBER 2007 PagE 7aRTS & ENTERTaINMENT

My thoughts of you as my heart runs through.What lies ahead of me Is what I may face, I can’t look back on what has happened to you and I just want

to know where I went wrong, is it my stupidity that is taking full control of me ?Wait, don’t answer that I want to say what’s on my mind the memories I will never forget,stop

I cant take it anymore, the promises you made became the goodness of your ears, were you listeningIwhenIbrokedowntoyou?Waitdon’tanswerthatletmefinishtheonethatIsharedmy

dreams with crumpled my heart like a used branch and just threw it away, the one I desired to be with, theonethatsaidhewillneverhurtmetheonethattookmybreathawaypleasejustletmefinish,forthiswill

bethelasttimemyheartwillcomeyourway,didyouevernoticethatthestreamsthatonceflowedyourwayhasbecome dry, simply because it has connected to me, no longer have I cried for what is now the past, the garden that

once made your heart bloom has no longer become the nature of life,do you feel it yet?Good, because what lies ahead of you is your face, can you feel it as it deepens down into the soil of the earth,the brink of your arm my become a knot in your heartwait,yourburningupyousay,yes!That’sthefeelingofpainyourhearthasbecomebrokenIamfinish,youhave

now experienced my heartache.

Standing up there staring at many seats with no one in them. Big, bright lights shining in my face. Serious voices of the backstage managers talking about what they are going to do. Loud music

going in and out and the words of people saying “Testing.” The smell of hairspray surrounds me. The stage looks beautiful and clean, ready to be danced on. There is a very nervous

feeling in me that tells me I will have to perform in a few hours. But also very anxious to get on the stage. The beat of my heart pounding. Me, backstage

seeing hundreds of people enter into the theatre. Many chills inside of me. My time is coming soon. My time is now.

Poetry Corner

Student Poets

Norwalk:another Hollywood?Robin Williams at Best Buy? Leonardo DiCaprio in Darien? 50 Cent and Jim Jones in Bridgeport? What’s with all these celebrities visiting Fair-fieldCounty? If you haven’t heard al-ready, Con-necticut has used generous tax credits to attract filmp r o d u c t i o n s with stars such as Al Pacino, Robert De Niro, John Travol-ta, Uma Thurman, and Leon-ardo DiCaprio. Spinnaker Real Estate Partners LLC and The Connecticut Film Center teamed up to purchase a piece of property in Norwalk that they will operate as a sound stage and support facility for

the movie industry. They plan to build this studio at 345 Ely Avenue on seven and a half-acres of land. According to an article in The Advocate titled “Legisla-tors to Work on Expanding

Film Industry in State,” Leg-islature House Speaker James Amann’s task force will ex-amine what more the movie industry needs in order to call Connecticut home, including establishing production crews in Connecticut to cut the costs of importing production work-ers.

“The problem is crews,” Amann said, “We lack…those talented people who do all the hard work behind the scenes.” In an effort to solve this problem, the task force will talk to state colleges about ex-panded course offerings with

film productions.Paul Susen, Chief Academic Officerfor the Connecticut Community Col-lege System, and

Gary English, head of Dra-matic Arts at UCONN, said that they have hundreds of students who would consider living in Connecticut if they hadworkinthefilmindustry. Is Norwalk becoming the next Hollywood? It sure looks that way. One thing’s for sure though, we’ll be seeing a lot more celebrities in our city.

"Emotion"By Student Poet: Kaiesha Johnson’08

Candlelight December 17,18,19

@ 8pmNHS auditorium

Do not miss your opportunity to see the annual Holiday concert right here

at NHS!

"My Time Is Now"By Student Poet: Lexi LoRusso ‘08

PhotoC

redit:airamerica.com

The Music Television Chan-nel (commonly referred to as MTV) is no longer the main source for music in today’s generation. Instead, teens turn

to popular websites on the internet to listen to exclusive music not found anywhere else. Society has pressured MTV to morph with the In-

ternet. Since MTV has lost their music monopoly, they have been forced to keep their viewers through TV shows, ir-relevant to music. Shows such as The Hills and The Real World do not relate to music, so the reality T.V show’s jour-ney to airways remains ques-tionable. [MTV’s] biggest problem is that, in 1981, they were the only name in town, there was nothing like them,” said Bob Thompson, pop culture guru and professor at Syracuse University. It seems as though in today’s world, we have more TV channels for our nations youth to get entertainment. Never forget that MTV was

once the poster child for the youth. The loss in the “MTV appeal” can be measured ac-cording to Cory Bergman who said “TRL has lost over half its viewers since 1999.” The Internet is now the main source of information and MTV no longer has a monop-oly over pop-culture informa-tion. A huge loss in MTV in-terest can be accredited to the ever popular website, “Myspace.” Recently, the German magazine, Spiegel, spoke to the website found-ers, Tom Anderson and Chris DeWolfe. “I think we have replaced MTV. MySpace is more con-venient. You can search for things, while MTV is just de-livering things to you,” said Anderson.

Carolyn knowles ‘10, Carolina Cadavid’08Staff Writer

The great MTV: Is It Dead?

A poet’s hope: to be,like some valley cheese,local, but prized else-

where.-W. H. Auden

Photo Credit:villagevoice.com

Stephanie Kurose ‘08Staff Writer

The movie Beowulf, directed and pro-duced by Robert Zemeckis, is barely reminiscent of the epic poem that in-spired it, as depicted in the re-creation of Beowulf as a womanizer. The hero has an affair with Grendel’s mother, although he claims that he killed her with a sword through her heart. This “cinematic experience” weaves a new tale of a different Beowulf. Beowulf’s weakness causes him to lust over Grendel’s mother, por-trayed by Angelina Jolie. When lured back to her cave, he is seduced by her golden beauty. Jolie begs Beowulf for a son to replace the slain Grendel. Be-owulf complies and does not complete his task, but allows the monster to live. The plot twist is not totally implausi-ble, but the shift in Beowulf’s charac-ter is. The poem portrays Beowulf as a strong man of character and pride,

overly-boastful, but a great warrior king. This affair is folly; there is no good that could come from sleeping with the offspring of Cain. Poem-Be-owulf would have been wiser. Plot discrepancies aside, Be-owulf’s film persona is totally differ-ent than his literary characterization. In the movie he is depicted as a man driven by greed and pride, and noth-ing more; he is a womanizer, and side tracked by the most evil of creatures for the sake of sex. The Beowulf of the epic poem is much sturdier of moral. Although he never takes a wife, his respect for women isevident,andhe isfirstandforemost a warrior and hero, not a lov-er. The movie is a vast disappointment when compared with the poem. Such a shallow depiction of one of the most memorable characters in literature is a shame, and does no justice to one of thefirstgreatadventurestoriestoldorwritten.

Amy Cohen ‘08Guest Writer

Beowulf, The Womanizer

Beowulf, Friendly FormLindsay Megale ‘08Executive Layout Editor

Norwalk High School’s Fall Comedy this year was Beowulf User-Friendly. It took a dif-ficult storyto under-stand, and made it in-teresting and very funny. Whether you have read Beowulf or not, the play is enjoyable to watch for ages thirteen and up be-cause of the language. The story began in a classroom with Mrs. Gulch (Ms. Milne). She agrees that if her class

can prove to her that they know the story of “Beowulf,” they will pass

her class. The show is the classes interpretation of the play. After the

monster ,Grendel ,(Anthony Granata) attacks Heorot King Hrothgar (Taylor Cohen) sends Beowulf (Nick Quadrini) to kill the mon-ster. Grendel’s mother (Saman-tha Tuozzolo) is angered when Grendal comes home without his hand. The Drama Club did a tremendous job making this dry

story into a hysterical,

exciting, and overall great show. Good Job.

PhotoC

redit:Madeline

Gill

Actors performing in “Beowulf -user friendly”

Photo Credit: crow

npointchristian.org

DECEMBER 2007PagE 6 FEaTUREPagE 8

Shane Mitchell (‘08)

“The Red Sox won the World Series in 2004.”

alyxie Harrick (‘08)

“Spice Girls...please tell me that was within the last ten years.”

Brian Jacoby (‘09)

“Pokémon--gotta catch ‘em all!”

ashley Lampman (‘09)“Easy Bake Oven! I love that oven!”

Heard in the Halls: The best thing to happen in the last ten years has been...

As we reminisce about 1997, we probably remember the frivolity of our daily rou-tines—waking up at 8:00 for school, and being embraced with open arms by our teachers,

who told us to place our coats and backpacks in our classroom cubbies. Perhaps we remember snack time, arguments on the playground, and learning basic arithmetic. We would return to our homes

with friends for “play dates” and watch Hey Arnold! on Nickelodeon at 4:00. We may not remember world eventssuchasthedeathofPrincessDiana,thetrialofTimothyMcVeigh,orMadeleineAlbright’sconfirmationto

becomethefirstwomantoserveasSecretaryofState.However,certainincidentsarevividinourminds;thereleaseofthefirstHarryPotternovelandHanson’sreleaseofthechart-toppingsingle“Mmmbop.”

Our appreciation for our culture and our capacity to understand pivotal points in history has grown tremendously since 1997; however,someofourearliestmemoriesoffinger-painting,thepettingzoooutsideofStewLeonard’s,andsecond-gradespelling

bees will stay with us forever.

Our perception of the world has expanded since we were four to seven years old. A decade later, rather than coming home to settle down with a snack and watch Nickelodeon, we spend hours at club meetings, sports practices, after-school jobs and

other commitments. By late afternoon, we return home to complete our homework and, for many seniors, college applications. However,

thedailystruggletofilleachdaywithasmanyactivitiesaspossiblehasmotivatedteenagerstobeproficientat multitasking. Society has followed our example; 2007 was marked by an increased motivation to raise awareness about issues of global concern. Organizations, including (PRODUCT)RED, Live Earth, and

Invisible Children, have worked to improve the lives of people suffering countries away. We have an augmented capacity for understanding the world around us, thanks in part to ad-

vancements in technology and increased interest in world affairs. Although many teens retain some adolescent naïveté, we still look toward the future,

preparing to meet the changes we know to expect, but can-not hope to predict.

Jacob Taylor ‘08Staff Writer

Jessica taggart ‘08

1997 - candle in the wind 1997, elton john

- Foolish Games / You Were Meant For Me, Jewel - i’ll be missing you, puff daddy and faith evans

- Un-Break My Heart, Toni Braxton - can’t nobody hold me down, puff daddy - I Believe I Can Fly, R. Kelly - don’t let go (love), en vogue

- Return Of The Mack, Mark Morrison

- how do i live, leann rimes

- Wannabe, Spice Girls

Top Songs of 1997

On August 31, 1997, Princess Diana of Wales was killed in a car crash in Paris, France at the age of thirty-six

On March fourth, U.S. Presi-dent Bill Clinton bars federal funding for any research on human cloning.

On March ninth, rapper The Notorious B.I.G. is killed in a drive-by shooting.

The fi rst Harry Potter book is released: Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone.

1997

2007November, 2007 - Fire strikes in San Diego, California; ruining homes and killing people.

The fi nal installment of the ever-popu-lar Harry Potter series, Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows, is released on July 21st.

2007The Boston Red Sox

win four of the seven win four of the seven

games against the Colo-rado Rockies to win the

World Series

The Florida Marlins win four of the seven games in the World Series to beat the Cleveland Indians.

1997

BASEBALL2007

As of right now, the leader of the American East Con-ference in NCAA College

Basketball (men’s) is Mary-land-Baltimore County and

the Big East County leader is Pittsburgh.

In the NCAA Men’s Championship, Arizona Wildcats win 84-79 in overtime over the Kentucky Wild-cats. This is Arizona’s fi rst NCAA title in men’s basketball.

In the NBA Finals, Chicago Bulls earn their second repeat of the decade as they beat the Utah Jazz 4 games to 2

1997

BASKETBALL2007The Indiappolis Colts de-

feat the Chicago Bears at the Super Bowl.

January 26-Super Bowl XXXI: Green Bay Packers won 35-21 over the New England Patriots

1997

FOOTBALL

Staff Writer

2007

On April 16th, Virginia Tech student Seung-Hui Cho opened fi re, killing thirty-two students and wounding many more and then proceeding to take his own life.

SPORTS

FEaTURE DECEMBER 2007 PagE 7PagE 9

Robert Romano (‘10)“The snack wrap from McDonald’s.”

Jenny Wilkins (‘10)“Norwalk High School being reno-

vated.”

Mikey Corsaniti (‘11)“Meeting my idol, Gregory Hig-

gins.”

Yvette gonzalez (‘11)“Texting.”

Heard in the Halls: The best thing to happen in the last ten years has been...

As we reminisce about 1997, we probably remember the frivolity of our daily rou-tines—waking up at 8:00 for school, and being embraced with open arms by our teachers,

who told us to place our coats and backpacks in our classroom cubbies. Perhaps we remember snack time, arguments on the playground, and learning basic arithmetic. We would return to our homes

with friends for “play dates” and watch Hey Arnold! on Nickelodeon at 4:00. We may not remember world eventssuchasthedeathofPrincessDiana,thetrialofTimothyMcVeigh,orMadeleineAlbright’sconfirmationto

becomethefirstwomantoserveasSecretaryofState.However,certainincidentsarevividinourminds;thereleaseofthefirstHarryPotternovelandHanson’sreleaseofthechart-toppingsingle“Mmmbop.”

Our appreciation for our culture and our capacity to understand pivotal points in history has grown tremendously since 1997; however,someofourearliestmemoriesoffinger-painting,thepettingzoooutsideofStewLeonard’s,andsecond-gradespelling

bees will stay with us forever.

Our perception of the world has expanded since we were four to seven years old. A decade later, rather than coming home to settle down with a snack and watch Nickelodeon, we spend hours at club meetings, sports practices, after-school jobs and

other commitments. By late afternoon, we return home to complete our homework and, for many seniors, college applications. However,

thedailystruggletofilleachdaywithasmanyactivitiesaspossiblehasmotivatedteenagerstobeproficientat multitasking. Society has followed our example; 2007 was marked by an increased motivation to raise awareness about issues of global concern. Organizations, including (PRODUCT)RED, Live Earth, and

Invisible Children, have worked to improve the lives of people suffering countries away. We have an augmented capacity for understanding the world around us, thanks in part to ad-

vancements in technology and increased interest in world affairs. Although many teens retain some adolescent naïveté, we still look toward the future,

preparing to meet the changes we know to expect, but can-not hope to predict.

Jacob Taylor ‘08Staff Writer

2007

1997

- candle in the wind 1997, elton john

- Foolish Games / You Were Meant For Me, Jewel - i’ll be missing you, puff daddy and faith evans

- Un-Break My Heart, Toni Braxton - can’t nobody hold me down, puff daddy - I Believe I Can Fly, R. Kelly - don’t let go (love), en vogue

- Return Of The Mack, Mark Morrison

- how do i live, leann rimes

- Wannabe, Spice Girls

Top Songs of 1997- Hey There Delilah, Plain White T’s

-crank that, soulja boy

- This is Why I’m Hot, M.I.M.S. - the way i are, timbaland

-Tattoo, Jordin Sparks-thnks fr the mmrs, fall out boy

-Stronger, Kanye West-cupid’s chokehold, gym class heroes

-See You Again, Miley Cirus-sos, jonas brothers

Top Songs of 2007

George Bush is in his second term of presidency, with Vice President Dick Cheney.

Sworn in as the 64th Secretary of State on January 23, 1997, Madeleine Korbel Albright be-came the fi rst female to hold the position. She served until Janu-ary 19, 2001.

President Bush vetoed his fi rst bill, rejecting Congress’s bid to lift funding restrictions on human embryonic stem cell research.

1997

2007

Al Gore accepted a Nobel Peace Prize on the behalf of his climate campaign.

Democrat Bill Clinton was in his second term of presidency with Vice President Al Gore.

In Oregon on February 28th, the Supreme Court approved assisted suicide with the help of a physician.

POLITICS

ary 19, 2001.

Since 1997, Columbia Center for Children’s Environmental Health em-ployees have been following more than 500 mother-child pairs from preg-nancy through school age, examining the respiratory health and cognitive development risk in children prenatally exposed to chemicals generated by fossil fuels to show to Congress.

The Columbia Center for Children’s Enviornmental Health has deemed it Congress’ re-sponsibility to make sure that children’s exposure to harmful chemicals generated by fossil fuels is kept to a minimum.

Staff BoxThe Paw PrintNorwalk High School

23 Calvin Murphy DriveNorwalk, CT 06851

(203) 838-4481 ext. 13224

The Paw Print would like to thank all Journalism students for their work in the

creation of this newspaper. The following writers are those whose work

appears in this issue.

Co-Executive Editors:Lauren Catino

Lindsay Megale

Design Team:advertising- Amirah Kuta

arts & Entertainment- Samantha TuozzoloDistribution- Sarah Arndt

Feature Editor- Sara LeDucOpinion Editor- Laura Myler

Suria CejaChelsea JacobyDanielle KearnsMelanie Pinto

Julianne Rogan

Staff Writers:Marcus Armistead Lexi LoRussoMelissa Boccanfuso Brian MetterBonnie Bray Erika MolinaCarolina Cadavid John PaschalidisNicole Conte Heather PedenAshley Gabriele Bruna PetrilloAnouk Govil Dominique RamosRachel Holmes Julie SheiberMatt Iannazza Mone Stringfellow

Kaiesha Johnson Bryant TabbCarolyn Knowles Jacob Taylor Stephanie Kurose Jade ThompsonJared Levitt Danielle Violet

Peer Editors:

Sasha DiasKatie Rende

Jessica Taggart

Photo Editors:Madeline GillKelly Mills

advisor:Mr. Karl

EDITORIaL THE PAW PRINTDECEMBER 2007PagE 10

Letters to the EditorDear Editor,

What does F.B.L.A. actually do? Do not let our name deceive you; we are more than just a group who plans on being business majors in the future.

Our first priority is the community.We engage in activities such as reading to elementary students, donating to Toys for-Tots, and lending a hand to whoever needs it. F.B.L.A. combines rewarding work with fun, and is an excellent addition for a college portfolio.

Along with work in the community, our successful club participates in a state-wide competition where we have excelled surprisingly, even though members were lacking. This year, under the presidency of the brilliant Jeff Hatchman, more members

signed up, but we are always searching for people who are interested.

How can you sign up? If you are interested, either see Miss Gleason in 316D, oroneoftheofficers.EveryWednesday there is a brief meeting after school, where delicious snacks and drinks are served. The officers of

F.B.L.A. are as follows: President-Jeff Hatchman, Vice President-Steve Kekelik, Secretary-Eddie Fitzgerald, Treasurer-Steve Garfunkel, Historian-Valeska Diaz, andfinally,Reporter-GregBerger.

Please keep in mind the positive rec-ognition by college, rewarding community work, and competing with other clubs in the state of Connecticut. See Miss Gleason for details on joining the few, the proud, and the extreme.

-F.B.L.A. Future Buisness Leaders of America

Dear Editor,

In the midst of recent activity, Student Government has been working to repre-sent the Student Body. To keep the school informed, a different member of Student Government posts a new issue of Toilet Talk every Thursday.

We provide holiday facts, game sched-ules, and information about global con-cerns, such as breast cancer and recycling. If any clubs or organizations would like us to post an announcement, or would like to seeaspecifictopicaddressed,pleasebringit to our meetings, which are held every Wednesday in Room 218B.

Additionally, we are planning an “Open Session” in January, where students have the opportunity to come to the audi-torium after school and to voice their con-cerns. We would like to hear their opinions about the bathroom conditions, unopened doors in themorning, behaviormodifica-tion through rewards, hallway etiquette, and outdoor lunch availability.

Please attend this meeting and help student government improve our school.

-Alyxie HarrickStudent Government President

EDITORIaLS

Please let us know what you think.

If you have any questions or comments about this issue,

please feel free to stop by the journalism classes during

periods 5 or 8. Students are welcome to submit writing either in

person to room 218B or email to

[email protected].

The college process is a long, grueling procedure that many teenagers in America have to deal with. Coming to terms with the future is a large task to undertake. High school is meant to be a step toward college and works to aidstudentsbyallowingthemtobecomemoreindependent.Fromstudents’firstyearsinhighschool,therearemany opportunities in which they can become more involved in their school and in their communities. Taking action earlier in freshman year, as it is just as important as the sophomore, junior, and senior years, can help a student when it comes to their future.

Becoming active in and out of school is vital to the college process. Many colleges like to see some extra-curricular activities on resumes. Brag sheets should consist of sports, clubs, and volunteer work to help you standouttotheBoardofAdmissions.Havingajobbenefitsstudentsaswell.Collegeslovetoseestudentswho have kept a steady job because it shows the student has become responsible, and having a job also helps those who go to work right after high school.

Starting to do these things freshman year is a great strategy. Taking part in an activity that relates to some-thingyoumightbeinterestedinasacareercouldbebeneficialbecauseitallowsyoutoseewhetherornotyoulike that particular occupation. However, try not to take on too many responsibilities by being involved in an excessive amount of activities. Focus on one or two activities that you love that you can put your all into.

Freshmen,startbecomingactive,bothinyourcommunityandinschool.Ithelpsonceitcomestimetofileyourapplications in just three years. Sophomores, keep up the activities you are already involved in, or start something new. Juniors, now is the time to start looking at colleges, take important practice exams, and continue to stay active. Seniors, congratulations on being six months closer to graduation. Though the hard work seems tough, it is worth the time and energy.

Every Year Makes a Differencelauren Catino ‘08Executive Writing Editor

Rewarding and Noticing The Unnoticedlindsay Megale ‘08Executive Layout Design Editor

Policies:Our newspaper reserves the

right to edit all submissions for space and clarity.

All entries must include name, year in school, and

phone number for verification.

Rarely do you see students who excel in school academically and in after school activities on the front page of The Hour or The Advocate, or recognized by the school. What will be found are stories such as last year’s prankofgluingthedoorsshut,bombthreats,fights,andothernegativeevents.Ifstudentsdowhattheyaresupposed to and follows the rules, their housemaster may not even know their names at any point during their highschoolcareer.However,thehousemasterwillmostdefinitelyknow,byname,thestudentwhocutsclassand is barely passing. The school fails to recognize the students who want to succeed and who actually come to school to learn. It is not fair to treat a student that goes above and beyond in academics and also challenges themselves with other activities such as sports, clubs, and the play, with the same privileges as others who simply do not care about school. Mature students deserve to be given a little more. Just because a certain group of students cannot be respon-sible with certain privileges, it is automatically assumed that the rest cannot either. High school is supposed to prepare one for college and the “real world.” Norwalk High School is not pre-paring students for this: academically, yes, but with life skills, no. In the “real world,” an employee who works diligently, comes to work on time and rarely misses a day will receive a promotion or raise. In high school, however, a student can work hard, get good grades, have excellent attendance, and receive no reward or praise at all. These students exceed expectations set for them with absolutely no motivation from the school and they mostdefinitelydeserverecognition.

Our Next issue will be out

on February 14.

Look out for the next Valentine’s Day issue! Purchase a heart-shaped advertisement for your secret admirerer as a Valentine’s Day gift!

Please come to Room 218B for an advertisement form.

OPINION THE PAW PRINT DECEMBER 2007 PagE 11

The Paw Print has a lack of male staff writers this year, creating a huge void in the topics and angles that authentic news-papers have. Journalism is an elective class that is open to all sophomores, juniors, and se-niors. But for some rea-son, both thefifth andeighth period classes are almost exclusively filledbyfemales.Over-all there are forty four students in Mr. Karl’s journalism classes. Out of those forty four stu-dents, seven are guys. A mere 16% of the stu-dents are males. This is giving the paper a huge hole that needs to befilled.BrianMetterfeltthat,“It’sjustnot the natural customs of our true abili-ties.” As Mr. Mecca points out, around thirty years ago the journalism world was dominated by males. As time has passed it has gone completely in the other di-

rection. There doesn’t seem to be a clear reason why this has happened. “It’s funny because when I went to high school not only the school newspaper was dominat-ed by guys, the yearbook was too.” Mr. Mecca said. For guys, journalism is a great oppor-tunity to do what you want to do. You get to go out into the community and school to

findoutandreportoncurrent events. There needs to be a stron-ger male voice in the paper because guys tend to see things at a completely differ-ent angle than their female counterparts. Males also tend to write differently and use alternative ways

of getting their points across during the course of an article by asking different questions and taking different leads. So, if you have a study hall eighth or fifthperiod,gotoyourguidancecounsel-or or see Mr. Karl to get in on this enjoy-ableandself-fulfillingclass.

Photo Credit: M

elanie Pinto 1

2

3Females

Males

Male Voice In Journalism

Lack Of a Male Voice

Ummm, Like Duh, Like Valley-ness Is Totally Cool!!!!!!

Many students who ride the buses know what I am talking about when I say that the buses leave too quickly. The buses are waiting a couple of minutes more than last year. Last year the buses waited only two minutes and left. Every time

I get on the bus and it starts moving I hear kids banging on the side of the bus to stop the bus. Sometimes the buses does not even stop. This can be very dangerous. Since I catch the bus I timed what time the bus left on Friday of November 15th. The bus left at 2:22 and the bell rang at 2:15 that

means that the buses waited six minutes. When you think about it, you do not even leave the classroom until 2:16 or 2:17. This would give you 5 minutes to get to the bus. Hey, we have 4 minutes between classes and that is even hard to make. Go to your locker, the bathroom, the band room or to a classroom to pick up work. Forget it, it is an impossible task.

A student can get hit by the bus and get severely hurt. I do not know if any other students have a problem with taking the bus, but by the looks of it they do.

Students should not be running after the bus. Students should not leave school without books, instruments, checking with a teacher or be able to use the bathroom. I think that something should be changed; the buses should wait longer so that all students can get on the buses.

Wheels On The Bus go Round and Round... Too Fast

apathetic Towards apathy

DOMINIQUE RAMOS ‘09Staff Writer

“Everytime I get on the bus and it starts moving. I hear kids banging on the side of the bus to stop the bus. Sometimes the

buses don’t even stop.”

Recently, an increasing number of students adopted a speech pattern littered with meaningless words, overabundant pauses, and unusual pitches. “I don’t get it,” said Irene Sikorski, head of the English Department, “I’ve found that over the last three years, the influence of ‘valley-ness’ has affected theway students speak.” This impediment, coupled with indecipherably fast speech and ‘sing-songy’ tonality, leaves many students’ conversations unintelligible. For those students taking AP English this year, learning to speak without incorporating these bad habits has been a challenge; however, they quickly identifiedwhat they needed to correct and have made a conscious effort to eliminate these problems. “Before entering

Mrs. Sikorski’s class, I never realized how often the word “like” is used. I agree with her, it has become part of our culture,” noted Carolina Cadavid (‘08). These poor habits are reinforced by the majority of popular movies and television shows geared toward younger audiences. Children watch their favorite TV personas talk in this unique dialect and begin to subconsciously emulate what they hear. Over time, they become oblivious to how they sound when they speak that way in public. Intelligent students appear ditzy and less-educated than their well-spoken counterparts. This flaw has created some apprehension amongprofessional writers for the New York Times. According to an article in the New York Times Magazine, some of the writers have gone so far as to express concern about whether or not females are at a disadvantage during interviews because of the way that they are prone to speak.

Contrary to what those writers believe, the use of words such as ‘like’ and ‘umm’ is equally evident in males’ speech. “Honestly, guys use the word ‘like’ just as often as girls do, but people don’t seem to notice it as much” said fellow AP English student, Joe Corsello (‘08). Therefore, it is unlikely that such use would put them at a disadvantage to male students.

Furthermore, other aspects of the way females communicate give them certain advantages during interviews. Mrs. Sikorski proceeded to explain that despite the unnecessary words, her female students tend to have more polished oral skills and gave longer

responses to questions. This method of communication benefits them because their answers tend to be richerand more developed. In a college setting, this trait gives females a higher standing among interviewers.

Fortunately for those who still make these verbal mistakes, the problem can be eliminated with practice. When talking, even with friends, pay attention to what you say. If necessary, speak slower to ensure you put together intelligible sentences that are not punctuated with unnecessary “likes.” Practicing with friends will help make the transition to better conversations easier as well; if you revert back to bad habits when in their company, you are twice as likely to make the same mistakes at an inopportune moment.

Assuming all students follow these basic guidelines, their interviews should be successful regardless of their gender, and they will be better conversationalists overall.

JESSICA TAGGART ‘08Peer Editor

Apathy has consumed our generation and dominated good intentions. People often disregard the interests of others, focusing onlyon theirownbenefit.When it isnotthe disregard of others, it is the blatant ignorance of their own success and work ethic. Apathy is a lack of interest or concern in some-thing. The dif-ference between apathy and other commonly con-fused emotions is actually more dis-tinct than one might think. Empathy is being able to understand how someone feels based on personal experiences they have had. Sympathy is purely feeling sorry for someone. Apathy is a simple lack of feeling anything about a situation, good or bad. In a fast paced world where people are primarily concerned with themselves,

compassion and understanding has been lost. Materialism and self-interest seem to have overcome honorable intentions. When is this emotion unavoidable, and when is it intentional? Do people see oth-er’s needs and merely ignore them? Or do they sincerely not even notice anymore? The irony is that most people are apa-thetic towards apathy, and do not notice their insensitive behavior.

A lack of inter-est in the well-be-ing of others pro-motes a harsher, more self-centered world. With every-one only looking out for themselves,

and sometimes not even that, where has loyalty and kindness gone? Be aware of how your actions affect others; look out for everyone that you can. Realize that you are not the only person af-fected by your actions and that we all live together in one world. Or better yet, think only about your-self and see how far that takes you.

“In a fast paced world where people are primarily concerned with themselves, compassion and understanding has been lost.”

Like Oh My GodAs If

ya know

What- ever

Barf BagSketchy

Buggin’

AirheadBaldwin

Fer Sure!!Duh

Like Totally

Gag me with a spoon!!

Later Days

Sweet!!To the max

Spaz

Audi

Betty

Barney Postal

Matt Iannazzo ‘08Staff Writer

Photo Credit: M

adeline Gill

50 million children are in public and private schools; yellow school buses transport half of this number.

DANIELLE KEARNS ‘08Peer Editor

OPINION THE PAW PRINTDECEMBER 2007PagE 12

Taking It For granted: Students Diss DegreesThe time is 6:30 a.m. and your alarm is ringing; it is time for school. Each week-day morning, children and teenagers all over the country rise from their slumber

to get ready for school. While students may dread the arduous task of going to school for about six hours each day, there are thousands of children all over the world who would love to ac-quire an education. Just seven thousand miles to the south of the United States, in Central America, not all Guatemalan children are entitled to an education. In several countries children are doomed to face a life without an education forcing them into a further oppressive society. In today’s world, an education is the key to fortune and suc-cess. Students who cannot receive schooling are destined to lead an intolerable life. The United States Education System entitles all students to an education, but for an unexplainable reason a magnitude of students are rejecting this right. In Connecticut alone, fourteen out of 155 high schools have a dropout rate of

sixty percent, ranking us number twenty-four in the nation for drop out rates. The highest cases of dropouts are seen in South Carolina; where ninety out of 185 high schools have a dropout rate of over sixty percent. In 1,700 high schools across America, the senior class is made up of sixty percent or fewer students who entered as freshman. Connecticut

produces fourteen high schools that have a retention rate under sixty percent. America is the land of opportunity, but with this opportunity people are granted the freedom to neglect a chance. As a whole, only seventy percent of American students graduate on time. The world is becoming a crowded place, and each day more and more students are attending American universities. Do not take your education for granted. There are other people starving for an edu-cation. Therefore, the next time you are groaning out of bed for school, just remember, you are one of the lucky chosen.

Will We Live To See The Year 2012?

brian metter ‘08Staff Writer

carolina cadavid ‘08Staff Writer

The Real Problem Asthefirstquartercametoaclose,did itseem like your teachers were assigning last minute tests or papers? This is the reality in most courses in the school. What are teachers trying to do? Are they trying to get some extra grades in the book? Are they trying to boost your grades? What is the real issue with the sudden spike of work? A student walked into a math class the Mondaybeforethefirstquarterendedandsaid plain and clear, “I have four tests today, and two projects due Wednesday! This isn’t fair.” This has been a common site in many math classes over the past few years with the dreaded quarterly tests looming. Not only were these tough tests on the horizon, they also had to complete a rigorous set of application problems. This is not even the half of it, with another test coming before these two strenuous tasks were assigned. It was a very tough week for these students.

“Teachers don’t give more work at the end of quarters; they are all restricted by a given date,” Mrs. Ireland states. Mrs. Ireland, a pre-calculus teacher and head of the math department is referring to the last day of the quarter. “Teachers aren’t allowed

to assign any more work after the last day of the quarter, that’s why there is such a heavy workload the last few days,” she said. To avoid all of this work, a solution would be a nice thing to have. There lies the problem. This particular issue does not have a clear cut way to solve the issue. One solution could be to have all the departments end on different days. Making each class assign the

same amount of work, but have it be due on different days therefore avoiding the

clumping of essays and tests. Another solution could be to put the blame on the teachers. The teachers could space out their work better avoiding this late quarter rush. Either way this is an issue that can be solved, and will be solved because quite frankly it is not fair.

a Rat Race To The End

Hearingthenewslately,onefindsnewsabout the staph infections in schools and how antibacterial products can cause re-sistant strains of bacteria. For example, washing your hands too much can actu-ally make your immune system weaker. Yes, as we grow more and more as a so-ciety, problems arise that are certainly of our own mak-ing. It is funny how doing something that is supposed to help can actu-ally make the situation worse. If you have not heard this, perhaps you should turn on the television and watch some news or go on the internet to get informed. But wait, ex-perts complain about teenagers watching too much tele-vision. After all, it is true that the aver-age American watches over four hours of “the tube” a day. Maybe if us teenagers played outside when we were younger in-stead of watching T.V, the whole problem

of resistant bacteria would not exist. This leads me to think, is life really better now than it was twenty years ago? Now we can talk to anyone we want to whenever we want to. That is just great; there is no need to actually go out and talk to people face to face anymore. It amazes me that conditions like obesity are becoming such a big problem. It must be all those McDonalds commer-cials they play on T.V.

We have ac-tually gained the title of “The Technology Gen-eration.” The name sounds nice. All these savvy kids of our generation can seemingly do anything. We can fix computers,beat the hard-est video games, and text like the wind. It is just too bad we have trouble holding a conversation in

person. It is also too bad that we may be the first generation to actually liveshorter lives than the generation before us. Maybe if we did not wash our hands so often, this would not be the case.

matt iannazzo ‘08Staff Writer

jared levitt ‘09Staff Writer

Take a moment to think where you will be five years from now onDecember 21, 2012. According to the Mayan civilization and some modern astronomers, everyone will be dead. The Mayans have three calendars. Two of these are repeating, circular calendars: one for their religious cycle, and one that is based on the sun, like our calendar. However, the third one is an ongoing line called the “long count.” It starts on day “one,” going through each day until the present. Any day in history can be recorded using the long count, and the corresponding religious week and solar month can also be found. The day that the long count ends is December 21, 2012. However, the world does not just end because a calendar made thousands of years ago ends. But why did the Mayans not calculate past this date? The sun will be at its most violent

stage on the solar cycle on December 21, 2012. During this time, because of the position of the other planets in the solar system, the sun will be active, causingsolarflaresandsunspots. Dan Eden, a reporter for viewzone.com, explained the potential danger in this. “Sometimes, avery strongflare,called a Coronal Mass Ejection (CME), actually leaves the Sun and this deadly mass shoots out from the Sun towards the planets like a bullet … evenasmallflarecanbedangerous,”Eden said. This is not just some crazy theory either.Thesesolarflareshavehit theEarth in the past. “In 1989,” Eden explained, “a flare hit North America and friedelectric lines, zapped power grids in the U.S. and Canada, and created large power blackouts. In theory, a largeflare impacting theEarthcouldzap the ionosphere and irradiate the surface, killing every living organism that it touched.”

One Norwalk High student, Atrium Mills (’11), does not think thattheworldisgoingtoendinfiveyears. “I don’t know,” he said, “The world has been around this long, I don’t think it’s going to end now.” When asked where he thinks he would be in five years, he responded, “I’llprobably be graduating from Wright Tech.” Hopefully the end of the world won’t get in his way. Norwalk High Science teacher, Mr. Anastasia described his take on this theory. “I have heard of predictions of the Earth’s demise before,” Anastasia explained. “There have been extinctions in the past and I’m sure there will be extinctions in the future.” For those of you worrying about college and the future, do not sweat it because according to astronomers and the ancient Mayans, your debt will be obliterated along with the rest of the world.

?

“One solution could be to have all the departments end on different days.”

Photo Credit K

elly Mills

Matt Iannazzo busy with work from all subjects.

“Students who cannot receive schooling are destined to lead an intolerable life.”

PhotoC

reditww

w.dkim

ages.com

PhotoC

reditTime

Magazine

Watching T.V. is the biggest portion of our daily lives.

a good Deedamirah kuta ‘08Advertising

Donating blood is extremely easy. The staff asks you a few questions, you get a fin-ger prick (to make sure you are not anemic), and you give a pint of blood. I cannot un-derstand what everyone is so freaked out about. On top of that, you get as many bever-ages and snacks as you want. Another big bonus is the possibility of missing two class periods. If all those elements still do not have you persuad-ed, one piece of information may change your mind. For every pint of blood donated and approved, three lives are saved. You would think that would convince more people to donate. Yet, according to the American Red Cross, “Of the eligible donor population, only 5% give blood.” That is really bad, considering Connecti-cut is in serious need of blood, especially in the winter and summer months. Donating blood saves lives, and everyone who is eligible should donate. If you are afraid of needles, get over it.

Photo Credit w

ww

.dkimages.com

A bag of donated blood

OPINIONTHE PAW PRINT PagE 13DECEMBER 2007

Wasted Time In School

8:15am.Timetoleavefirstperiodandgoto homeroom. 8:19 am. Get to homeroom and sit down. Wait for announcements that are inaudible because of broken speakers or loud, obnoxious, inconsider-ate kids. Talk with your friends. 8:24 am. Leave for second period.Inthosefiveminutesof homeroom, is anything productive be-ing done? No. One could argue that home-room is important because that is when announcements are made and papers are handed out. However, is it necessary to have another period or class dedicated to just that purpose? Surely, a pe-riod could be allotted when an-nouncements are made and pa-pers are handed out. A solution to this would be taking a period, suchasperiod8,andaddingfiveminutes to it. The same papers and announcements could be made, but it would save the four minutes of passing time used for homeroom. The school sometimes refers to homeroom as the attendance period, but attendance is re-quired in every class anyway. Homeroom is sometimes seen as a “home base” for stu-dents; a stable class that remains

the same during all four years. However, by the time students reach high school, they should not need this babying. In col-lege, there is no homeroom. Students go to the classes they need to without going to homeroom for “stability.” Since high

school is supposed to prepare you for col-lege, homeroom should cease to exist. To put it simply, taking nine minutes (five minutes for homeroom, four min-utes for the passing time it requires) is not needed and simply wastes students’ time.

gossip girls: The Effect It Has On Teenagers Today

The Cost Of Reporting

The seemingly notorious reputation of journalists precedes itself as even the students writing for the Paw Print are shunned while on the journalism job. Inattemptsatfulfillingthegoalofcre-ating a more so-phisticated school environment by reporting on Nor-walk High’s activi-ties and events, the student journalists have been seek-ing interviews and direct information with faculty and staff so as to ac-curately write ar-ticles and create a trustworthy school newspaper. The frustration caused by the refusal to participate in quick and painless in-terviews, in which simple questions are answered, puts a strain on students and impedes on completion of credible sto-ries. However, attempts are still made by the students and still teachers quickly avert their eyes towards the floor andmake attempts at escape from the blood-thirsty media and paparazzi of high school journalists trying to better their school through writing. Such reactions of terror and annoyance are somewhat understandable, as our na-tion’s media has successfully taught us to fear journalists and news reporters who answer with a supply to the demand of tabloids. People’s fear of the manipulative media is only a cause and effect of themselves thriving on tabloids and rumors. To sat-isfy a hungry America, reporters use the infamous tactics that have won them their reputations. For this reason, reporters are feared for their ability and readiness to destroy

people through confabulation, twisting of words, and taking things out of context. The penalization of Norwalk High jour-nalists has resulted from this nationwide “catch-22” in which Americans cannot live without their tabloids but complain about and despise journalists for manufacturing this apparent necessity.

Norwalk High’s journalists, still in a growing and learning state, have yet to learn these apparently mur-derous media tactics and therefore, in time, can hopefully become nothing to fear. A great deal of appreciation is directed towards those certain teachers who take it upon themselves to fulfill the teachingrequirements and en-

courage the journalist students to succeed by cooperating in interviews. This cooperation is greatly underesti-mated by those teachers who participate in interviews. It needs to be brought to their attention how deeply helpful they really are in answering a few questions. The in-terviews made possible by teachers are the key component to writing a credible article and could not be done without those faculty members at Norwalk High who bravely and so enthusiastically give their responses. I am sure there is still enough appre-ciation left over to go to the faculty on the other side of encouragement, who politely dismiss the journalist students by shoving outstretched palms into the students’ eager-to-learn faces. Of course, the abrupt and truly mature dismissal is understandable when teachers are pestered with questions concerning highly controversial topics such as trick-or-treating, the holidays, or caf-feine. Who can blame them for fearing the undoubtedly bad intentions of Norwalk High journalists?

Whether they like to admit it or not, gossip is the guilty plea-sure girls love to hate. Many teenage girls have been both victims and culprits in the art of trash talk, but how far is too far? Nowadays, gossip at school is as much a given as text-books and teachers. It is no lie that girls have a tendency to get sucked into the world of gossip. It is a universal issue, ranging from high schools here in Norwalk, all the way to those on the other side of the country. Why is gossip such a big factor in girls’ lives? Gossip gives people something to talk about. The more one gossips, the more one wants to gossip, and after a while he or she forgets that it is wrong. Gossiping can also help to raise one’s self-esteem. If someone is insecure about themselves, heorshemayfindcomfortintalkingtrashaboutpeoplebe-hind their backs. Gossip gives people the feeling that they are above others. Many teens do not understand the effect a couple of words can have on a person. In reality, rumors can get blown out of proportion, and the little words said can permanently

scar someone. Issues such as anorexia, drugs, and sex can be personal, and malicious gossip about these topics are very like-

Bruna Petrillo ‘09Staff Writer

Anouk Govil ‘08Staff Writer

rachel holmes ‘08Staff Writer

Photo Credit K

elly Mills

Adilia Bernard (‘08) and Valeska Diaz (‘08) share some juicy gossip.

Sharon Apy (‘08) tries to listen to the announcements.

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elly Mills

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elly Mills

“The school sometimes refers to homeroom as the attendance period, but attendance is

required in every class anyway.”

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ly to have a negative affect on people who are sensitive. Gossip can also tear friendships apart. Once one is betrayed, one learns not to trust people in order to protect oneself from getting hurt, and trustissomethingthat,oncelost,isverydifficultto get back. To make matters worse, cell phones and com-puters have taken gossip to the next level. There is an anonymity online that allows people to “talk” a lot of trash without taking responsibility for the things they say. Girls everywhere have gossiped, including me. From experience, having rumors spread aboutyourselfcanbedifficulttohandle,butyoucan deal with it. If people are talking about you, the best thing to do is just avoid it. If you do not want people to talk about you, do not talk about them.Donottrytofightback,because,inmanycases, that will only make matters worse. Just brush the dirt off your shoulder and let it blow over. You do not have to be a victim.

A reporter’s most essential tools: a pen and pad.

OPINION THE PAW PRINTDECEMBER 2007PagE 14

As candidates for the 2008 Presidential Elec-tion engage in heated debates, one candidate sticks out like a sore thumb from the rest of the seemingly pedestrian contenders. For-mer New York City Mayor Rudy Giuliani, deemed the “front-runner” amongst the Re-publicancandidates,ishardlyqualifiedtobePresident of the United States. While he has branded himself as the ultimate hero for his post-9/11 mayoral actions, he has not proven himself to be able to command and propel our entire nation towards economic and political prosperity. Giuliani has stated that if a Democratic President is elected in 2008, America risks another major terrorist attack. Giuliani also stated “If any Republican is elected Presi-dent—and I think obviously I would be the best at this—we will remain on offense and will anticipate what [the terrorists] will do and try to stop them before they do it.” But Giuliani’s comments reek of irony and hy-pocrisy. After all, the 9/11 terrorist attacks occurred while Giuliani was mayor of New York City, Republicans controlled Congress, and a Republican was in the White House. Giuliani commonly uses his experience in dangerous situations as testimony for his ability to lead the United States as President. But at a closer glance, the former mayor’s re-cord is not so praiseworthy. Giuliani failed to execute pivotal policies after the 1993 attack on the World Trade Center, which would have better prepared the city for the 9/11 disaster.

OnSeptember11th,over120firefightersinthe North Tower did not vacate the building because they did not hear evacuation orders. As mayor of New York City, Giuliani had been approached several times between 1993 and 1995 to establish a clear chain of command for future catastrophes. However, heconsistently ignoredNewYorkCityfirechiefs’ proposals. If Giuliani had repaired interdepartmental radios that had malfunc-tionedinthefirstWorldTradeCenterattack,perhaps firefighters would have been ableto hear NYPD warnings of the Towers’ col-lapse. History is known to repeat itself; if vot-ers can not see the ineptitude, amateurism, and arrogance which are rampant underneath Giuliani’sunbefittingnicknameof “Ameri-ca’s Mayor,” what would become of the United States with Giuliani as President?

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Over 400 million cups of coffee are consumed each year. In the halls of Norwalk High alone, students and teachers alike can be found with mugs in hand. But why the craze? Is it lack of sleep, or the love of the burst of energy coffee provides? “I try to drink coffee every morning. If I do not get a lot of sleep and have to wake up really early, I know coffee will give me that extra kick I need to stay alert,” said Kristen Cordero (‘10). In 2006, recent studies from the NDPGroup,aretailconsultingfirm,showed that the percentage of meals and snacks that included coffee rose from twenty percent in 2004, in teens between the ages of thirteen to seventeen. “Sometimes I drink it at night when there is a lot of work to do,” responded Anna Theodoridis (‘10). Even though it seems harmless, the caffeine in coffee is highly ad-dicting and can cause headaches. Not to mention, it is said to stunt your growth and cause yellow teeth.

“IcandefinitelycraveitbutifIdonothaveit,itis okay. It is more of a craving than an addiction,” said Sara Ruggieri (‘10). “When I get home from a hard day at school, it is nice to enjoy a steamy cup of coffee to help me un-wind, relax, and start my homework,” claimed Tony Lato (‘10). The case seems to show that students at NHS pre-fer coffee for the kick of energy and mental burst. Cof-fee is the chosen drug of America because it is afford-

able and legal. But remember, caffeine can cause sleep problems and block creativity, so before reaching for that Regular Venti Caramel Macchiato with soy-milk and sugar-free syrup, try a decaf version. Or better yet, get enough sleep and following through with school and home-work will not be a problem. “I am willing to try decaf coffee and do without that ex-tra dash of caffeine, as long as I will get my coffee in the morning. Or maybe I will just sticktoOrangejuice,”finishedCordero.

The Elephant In The RoomJacob Taylor ‘08Staff Writer

a Venti Problem; Coffee addiction

Starting on Monday morning of October 1, 2007, all that was heard in the hallway was …the late bell. Efforts were useless as students consistently walked into class late. In the near future, students will have cut slips piling on their desks for being tardy. The reason is completely due to the construction. The problems range from faraway lock-ers,whichfeelasiftheyareacrosscountry,totheportablewallputupinthirdfloorDHouse,whichcreatestrafficproblemscausingstudentstobelatefornearlyeverysingleclass . Four minutes to get to class is a physical impossibility. Every student would have to run as if they are in a marathon, but then again we are not allowed to run in the halls. How doestheadministrationexpecteachstudenttofulfilltherequiredforty-threeminuteclassperiod when students are coming in late because of the congestion in the hallways? There has been nothing but negative comments made about the lack of time to get to class during these construction stages. It is about time the school advisors and admin-istration realize the problem and either extend the passing time or disregard the use of cut slips. Students and faculty are being affected by the inconvenience and it needs to be resolved before we can get a proper education.

The way to insure an appropriate education is to add at least two minutes to our al-ready existing passing time. Therefore students would have six minutes to pass because being later to class is out of the question. This time frame would be enforced even after the construction is over due to the enlargement of Norwalk High School. For now faculty should cut some slack on the students until there is a suitable change.

There’s Not Enough Time! Chelsea Jacoby ‘09Staff Writer

PHOTOOF

THE HALLWAYS

For another generation

If I were to write a letter to the future generations, I would love to tell them about my high school life.

Dear Future Generations, In my high school, Norwalk High,

a lot was going on during 2007. There was the War in Iraq during President George Bush’s double term. This was when a countless number of innocent peo-ple were dying in this long war. There was a lot of hatred toward George W. Bush in my school. Many people did not approve of him. But overall, high school students rebelled against this by making sarcas-tic jokes about Bush.

Another idea from my time was the idea of therapy and how a lot of people are no longer scared to go for help when they needed it. Because of all the stress in the world at this time, therapy had become a major outlet for men, wom-en, and children. This was a wonderful thing because therapy may be the one thing that was actually helping people during this age. At the same time, some people were not scared about therapy, but some at the same

time were not ready. This is distressing because therapy is a great way to ex-press your feelings and talk to someone who can empathize and understand.

Many more designer brands were being sold. Fashion really came back around. The skinny jeans from the eight-ies, the tie-dye t-shirts from the sixties, and glitter and sparkle accessories from the seventies. While knowing this, it makes me believe that if styles come

back around, then these styles will even be the styles of your day too. So do not be sur-prised if you findyourself wearing Nike’s and low-

rider skinny jeans. All in all, what is best to know

aboutthetwenty-firstcenturyisthefunall of us had. I love the fact that people were learning yet having fun at the same time. People enjoyed coming to school because there were so many electives and such great people. Norwalk High School was such a diverse place that there was so much from which to learn and grow. What I saw most during my years here was the absolute change that people go through to become intelligent and wonderful people. Sincerely, Melanie Pinto

Melanie Pinto ‘10Staff Writer

“If I were to write a letter to the future generations, I would love to tell them about

my high school life.”

Stutut dents use cofffff efef e to stay awake in class

Melanie Pinto ‘10Staff Writer

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Crowded hallway makes stutut dents late fofof r class.

Giuliani fights fofof r the Presidency

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SPORTSTHE PAW PRINT PagE 15DECEMBER 2007

Chelsea Jacoby ‘09Staff Writer

We Know Chicks With Sticks, But Boys With Skirts?

According to Title IX, an institution should meet the in-terests and abilities of its female students, even where there are disproportionately fewer females than males participating in sports. It also states, opportunities for men and women should be “substantily proportionate” to their respective undergraduate enrollments. A few Norwalk High School boys were asked if theywouldparticipateingirlsfieldhockeyifgiventhechance, and the answers were diverse. Brian Jacoby (’09) said, “It looks like fun and if boys could play there would be contact, which is even more fun.” Andrew James (’09) disagreed and emphasized, “Never, ever, ever! They have to bend their backs in ways it shouldn’t, and I can’t and wouldn’t be able to do that.” Despite the mixed emotions among the boys, the coaches are willing to support a new team. “If there was enough student interest to make a team I’dhelp,”saidNHSfreshmanfieldhockeycoach,Lau-

ren DeLong. KyleSeaburg,varsityfieldhockeycoach,alsoagreed,

“I’m not going to deny a boy to play the game, it’s just I thinkthegamewilldefinitelychange.It’soneofthemost

demanding sports and the boys would have to be prepared for that and a lot of ridicule.” Varsityfieldhockeyplayer,KristyMastropietro(’09) was asked if she would participate in a co-ed team. Mastropietro said, “I would play with the boys, most definitely. The only thing is that, the gamemay become more violent. Boys are much more aggressive and don’t always know how to control themselves in game situations.” Men’sfieldhockeyexistsaroundtheworld,butthe sport has traditionally been played by girls in the

United States. Southwick High School in Massachusetts, and WestSpringfieldHighSchoolinVirginia,bothhaveboysontheirfieldhockeyrosters,withanadditionalsix teams in the high school leagues. It is possible for boys to play in other states, but as of right now it is a no for Norwalk. “If girls are allowed to play football, boys should be able to play field hockey,” Mastropietro adds,“It’s only fair.”

Sport games promote pride within the school and among classmates. Well-known sports are represented in seasonal schedules to encourage students to attend games and support the teams. But there is one sport that has been neglected and denied the recognition or funding that a popular team would typically receive. The Rugby Club was established in 2003 by Eric Johnson. It quickly gained popularity among male and female students through sign-ups at lunch because of their co-ed policy. As of then, rugby hasbeenanofficialsport’s club under the “Connecticut Yankees.” The school has opted not to recognize the Yankees as a school team or club because it would bring too much cause for liability. “The school feels that there is too much liability to even support us as a club. We really don’t want it as a varsity sport. We just want to be rec-ognized,” said Co-Captain Domonik Boehmer (‘08). Rugby is a full contact sport that is by no means safe, but according to the National Elec-tronic Injury Surveillance System, basketball, football,andsoftballinflictmoreinjuriesannu-ally than rugby.

Like every other team, rugby holds weekly practices and participates in regional competi-tions. The main difference between rugby and the already established teams is a lack of GPA requirement, keeping it open to a larger cross-section of students. “We are a division-two team, which is pretty good,” added Co-captain Mike Dawson (‘08). Last year, three of their players were cho-sen to play in the U19 New England compe-tition which continues to Nationals. The team justmissedfinishingfirstintheirdivision. Aside from lack of acknowledgment, there still remains an issue with college opportunities.

At this point, it is difficultgettingascout to a game to recruit mem-bers and provide s c h o l a r s h i p s when the team is

not established or provided backing. As thesituationstands, thefirststep is tosend out a petition for students and their par-ents to seek the consensus opinion on this issue. Then it is the job of the players and their coach to create and present a proposal to the Board of Education to get the sport approved. “Further plans would be to make it a reg-ulated school sport, but that will take a few years,” commented Dawson. The rugby “team” will continue its efforts to legitimize their effort and earn recognition at Norwalk High School.

Recognizing The Rugby TeamDanielle Kearns ‘08Staff Writer

“We really don’t want it as a varsity sport. We just want to be recognized.”-Co-Captain Domonik Boehmer (‘08)

The differences in gym class between boys and girls at Norwalk High School is an abundant one, with the requirements for boys to run the mile in gym class at seven and a half minutes, and girls at ten. This leaves people wondering why. There are many girls that feel they are just as fast as the boys. If this is true, why is there such a profuse time difference in the requirement? “I’m just as fast as some of the boys, I don’t understand why there’s a time difference,” Lauren Ventrella (‘09) said, who placed second in the 300 hurdle in the track FCIACS. The State of Connecticut issues a specifictimeforgirlsandboystorunamile and a certain amount of push ups they should be able to do. The same goes for all schools in Connecticut. “The State of Connecticut expects certain standards based on age,” physcial education teacher, Mrs. Hamilton, said. Boys must run the mile in seven and a half minutes, while girls must in ten. Boys must do sixteen push-ups, girls only nine. “Research has shown there is

a physical difference between girls and boys,” Norwalk High physical education teacher Mr. Mccue said. This is true. Although women may train just as hard as men do, the current world record for women is 2:21, and for men it’s 2:06:50. Reasons for such differences are as follows: men can take in about 43% more oxygen than females. Most female also have more body fat. A

m a l e ’ s upper body strength is a 40-50% difference b e t w e e n the sexes, and their

lower body strength is a 30% difference. The student body has many different opinions of the mile requirement for gym class. Some students don’t mind it, while others dread the thought of running a mile in between classes. “I personally don’t like running the mile, but I understand why we do. There are a lot of kids that are out of shape.” Jovan Colon (‘08) said. “I hate running the mile.” Chris Conte (‘08) states, along with many other students. As for the future, not much different will be done with the gym class requirements. It has been a requirement for a long time, and is most likely here to stay.

Discrimination in gymNicole Conte ‘08Staff Writer

“I hate running the mile, but I understand why we do.”

-Jovan Colon (‘08)

Parents of student athletes are welcome to cheer on their children at school games, but when does one draw the line of taking competition too seri-ously? Support from parents for the school’s athletes always boosts team morale, but can a parent’s ex-citement become too distracting or unwarranted? Over-enthusiastic parents have become a na-tional problem and their actions have resulted in numerous news headlines. A New York soccer mom was arrested after allegedly beating a coach with a metal folding chair after she was accidentally dropped from the team’s e-mail list. Likewise, a father of a youth league baseball player physically attacked his son’s coach. Both parents brought negative atten-tion to parent spectators at sporting events. Norwalk High has encouraged parents who attend many of the school’s games to cheer on students from the stands.

“Having parents there is great and keeps stu-dents in line,” said Nick Carroll (‘08). Carroll supports Norwalk High while also behaving properly at games. As the club’s presi-dent, Carroll reinstated the Bear Pack to promote positive school spirit. The Bear Pack has a set of rules that it must abide by when attending a sporting event, which mainly focus on being respectful to the opposing team’sfansandtheplayersonthefield. If students have to follow spectator rules, should parents’ behaviors also be watched? When asked if some parents ever get out of line,Carrollresponded,“Definitely,sometakeita little too far and yell at people they shouldn’t beyelling at, like theofficials.” Whileparentsof Norwalk High remain respectful during the games, excitement can sometimes turn into nega-tive energy. Being respectful when in the stands does not only apply to students. “It’s not just a school rule, it’s a spectator rule, so all people watching should follow them,” said Carroll.

Positive School Spirit at NHSAshley Gabriele ‘08Staff Writer

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runa Petrillo

Bear Pack demonstrating school spirit at the Varsity Boys Soccer game.

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Members of Bear Pack showing support for the NHS v BMHS field hockey game.

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SPORTS THE PAW PRINTDECEMBER 2007PagE 16

Thanksgiving Day game Victory

On Thanksgiving Day, November 22, 2007, the Nor-walk High Bears football team achieved a great vic-tory against their rival, Brien McMahon, in a 34-8 win. Bears fans cheered from the stadiums as Norwalk High’s kicker, Christian Garcia (’08), made a 41-yard fieldgoal,puttingtheBearsquicklyintheleadandsetting the pace for other teammates to score. Players were ecstatic about their win and their

recapture of the Sam Testa Memorial Trophy in the 47thmeetbetweenthetwoteams.Thiswastheirfirstwin since 2005. “I am very happy and proud that we were able to beat McMahon and bring the Sam Testa trophy home.” Bears player Peter Neiporant (’08) said in response to their victory. “This win was a great ending to our season, and I hope it inspires future Norwalk teams to start a win-ning tradition,” he added.

nicole conte ‘08Staff Writer

2 0 0 7 F a l l Va r s i t y S p o r t s R e c a p .Football6-4

girls Soccer 2-14

No Need To Weight Melanie pinto ‘10Staff Writer

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icole Conte

Boys Soccer 5-8-2

Volleyball 1-17

Field Hockey8-4-3

Varsity Boys Basketball1/4 vs Greenwich 7:001/15 vs Trinity Catholic 7:001/18 vs St. Joseph 7:002/1 vs Brien McMahon 7:002/5 vs Westhill 7:002/11 vs Bassick 7:002/18 vs New Canaan 7:00

2 0 0 8 Wi n t e r S p o r t s H o m e g a m e sVarsity girls Basketball1/8 vs Wilton 7:001/10 vs Staples 7:001/22vsRidgefield7:001/23 vs Bridgeport Central 5:301/29vsFairfieldWarde7:002/8 vs Trumbull 7:002/13 vs Danbury 7:00

Winter has arrived, and it is time to kick it in high gear. Guys Wrestlinghasbegun.Itisadifficultseasonwithnewplayersandreturning coaches. This year, these males will endure a tough sea-son beginning their workouts with running through the hallways, weight-training, and physical practice, so that when they compete they will be ready to win. “There is no secret to success in wrestling, just hard work and it pays dividends,” said Assistant Coach Fernandez.Therearedefinitelysomegoalsthisyearandnotjustwinning. “My main goal is to do it now and get some experience for when I do it in college,” said Jimmy Piccirillo (’08), first timeteammate. “Upon returning this season I hope to have a winning record and place in the top quarter of wrestlers in FCIACS,” says Tony Lato (’10), a returning member. They have not competed against all-time rival, Brian McMa-hon yet, but when they do they will be ready. Wrestling is one of the hardest sports, not only to train for, but to compete in. “Mario [Coach Mario] is tough on us and if we don’t have a meet on a Saturday, we practice, and we practice during vacation. But when you’re actually wrestling it is emotionally intense. It’s notjustafightonthemat,it’safightwithin,”saysSteliosKalog-eridis (’10), returning member. So if the team doesn’t do well after training very hard, some-thing must be done. “I can deal with losing, if we lose because of our own mistakes or lack of effort it is something to be reminded of because those are inexcusable,” explained Coach Fernandez. Above anything, wrestling is more of an individual sport over a team sport. The team does, “push themselves and each other ev-eryday,” said Coach Fernandez. But overall, “wrestling is really about no one else, it’s pretty much all you. There might be some people who would be pleased, but in the end, you did it,” said Young Son (’09).

Norwalk High School’s indoor track team is back, hoping for a successful season. The team is looking forward to welcoming back old and new members as well as being able to do more things with an expanded team. “This season we have a lot of incoming freshman, so that’s good. We’ll have strength in numbers,” said one of the captains, Eddie Fitzgerald (’08). “We can do a lot more relays because we have a lot more people, so we’ll probably practice that a lot,” he finished. The members of indoor track as a whole have prepared even in the off season, with captain’s practices.They are working hard to run well in their meets and of course beat McMahon. All of their meets will be held either at Staples or Wilton High School. This year’s team will be led by senior captains Kyle Chu, Eddie Fitzgerald, Shannon Gombos, Amy Lawrence, and Jeff Wagner and coached by Coach Martin and Coach Moffett. Many of the team see indoor track as a great experience for everyone involved. “Track’s a great opportunity for all athletes. There is no bench, and everyone competes,” commented sprinter Daniel Conklin (’09). “We’re preparing for another excellent season, trying to match the one we had last year, where we placed second in FCIACs,” Conklin continues optimistically. So be sure to keep up with the NHS indoor track team and their anticipated accomplishments for another great year of run-ning and relays. Fitzgerald ends on a positive note, “Our team is strong and gettingbetter.We’reateamfromstarttofinish.”

Boys Ice Hockey1/21vsRidgefield6:202/2 vs Staples- Weston 8:402/6 vs St. Joseph 8:202/9 vs Trumbull 8:202/11 vs Darien 8:002/20 vs Joel Barlow 6:00

Wrestling1/3 vs Greenwich 6:001/30 vs New Canaan 6:002/5 vs Stamford 6:00

Boys Swimming1/9vsFairfieldLudlowe/Warde3:451/16 vs Wilton 3:302/6 vs Staples 3:302/13 vs Trumbull 4:002/15 vs New Canaan 3:30

girls Swimming6-4

Cross Country5-10

The Norwalk High School girls basketball team can only be described in one word this year, unstoppa-ble. For weeks, the girls have been practicing and preparing for another amazing season. In his fourth year as head coach of the NHS girls basketball team, Mr. Fuller said, “I have a lot of energy for teaching the team and I like to watch the girls be highly com-petitive.” Losing last year’s seniors has not been holding

these girls down, but only drives them to do better. “We have to play a different style because we don’t have the same personnel,” said their coach. “We will have to rely more on a defensive game.” This years seniors incude Kaylani Williams #30, Nataya Smalls #22, Ashlee Downing #13, Chanelle Brown #5 and Maria Bajnoczi #25. They are all cap-tains. The Lady Bears are hoping for another winning season this year and with the support of their fellow classmates, there is no doubt that these girls will have one.

The Unstoppable Bearsan “Indoor” Track Toward Success Mone stringfellow ‘09

Staff Writer

Norwalk High School’s football team raises the testa trophy in celebration of the Thanksgiving Day Game.

sara leduc ‘09Feature Editor

Congratulations Everyone!