The Panther Advocate - Plainfield Public Schools

Plainfield
Public
Schools
Issue #2
Layout Editor: Cassie Guerin
November 2010
The Panther Advocate
Inside this issue:
Homecoming Weekend
2-4
Interviews
5-13
School New
14-19
Pop Culture News
20-24
Sports News
25-27
Journalism News
28
Congratulations to
our girls volleyball
team for winning
the E.C.C. small
division and our
girls cross country
team for winning
the E.C.C. medium
division!
Page
Page2 2
Homecoming Weekend
Commentary and photographs by: Cassie Guerin and Colleen Horta
Spirit Week: Starting on Wednesday October 6th, the students of PHS showed their Panther Pride by participating in our annual Homecoming Spirit Week.
October 6th: Class Color Day: Freshman wore yellow, Sophomores wore blue, Juniors wore green and Seniors wore red.
Sophomores….?
We couldn’t find enough
of your spirit. :(
October 7th: Decades Day!
October 8th: Black and Orange Day!!!!!
Page 3
Homecoming Weekend 2010!
Pep Rally: Despite the confusion of the hallways and technical difficulties Plainfield students toughed it out and
pounced with pride through
the weekend. :)
PS: ZACH SAVAGE IS A
MACHO MAN!
Homecoming Game:
Students layered up
and showed their Panther Pride at the chilly
game October 8th at
6:00 p.m. Panthers
pounced on SMSA and
took the victory 26-12.
Court:
3rd Runners up: Suthod Young and Haley Pollock
2nd Runners up: Josh Randeau and Kayla Nason
1st Runners up: Zach Savage and Erin Attella
King and Queen: Zach Standeford and Elle-J Goslin
The Homecoming Dance was the perfect ending to a very busy and exciting week. As usual, it was
sold out and jam-packed with students ready to dance their paws off. J Productions’ employee and
PHS alumni Sean Reece provided the music for our night. Glow sticks and flashing glasses were
sold and helped illuminate the room full of panther pride. The fake snow and black lights only
added to the fun-filled atmosphere. As seniors, this was our last Homecoming at PHS, and it was
definitely one the class of double one will never forget.
11:11 you wish you were us!
Page 5
We’ve Got Spirit, Yes We Do
Interview and Photographs by: Britni Bourbeau
Hard work, bonding, and endless memories are just a few things that are happening on the cheerleading team this football season.
The girls on the team this season have been working so hard to get more tumbling skills on the team; we even attend classes every
Sunday. We have been trying so hard to get the proper recognition from our school. As a cheerleader myself, I went to our team captains (Alexis Griffin and Vanessa Deus) to find out what their thoughts of this year are.
What are your thoughts of this season so far?
Alexis: From the first day to now we have improved greatly. We have had a few problems, but we have overcome and seen past
them. We continue to progress.
Vanessa: I agree with Alexis. We really have improved since the first day. It takes teamwork: we have newer girls but we are growing closer.
What do you hope to accomplish personally and with the team by the end of this season?
Alexis: Personally: I want to acquire tumbling skills and better jumps.
With the team: I really would like to see girls really become comfortable with one another. We have had some drama but we are
getting closer to being a family. I would like to see more tumbling commitment. As far as basketball season goes, I want most, if not
all, of the girls to return and a lot of other people (boy or girl) try out. I would love if some guys joined the team. Most of all, I would
like our school to take the cheerleading team seriously and see how hard we work.
Vanessa: Personally: I want to finally get my back hand spring and maybe a back tuck.
With the team: I want to make sure that out stunts go up really nicely. We just need to stay tighter and keep our stunts going up
strong.
Random thoughts of this season…
On the girls…
Alexis: (In a valley girl voice) It’s like totally cool that we like have so many new girls! (Normal voice) Haha. I really do like it
though.
Vanessa: Most of the girls are very nice. There was some drama at the beginning of the season but we worked through it.
On the positive attitudes…
Alexis: I like that even when something doesn’t go right, we don’t get discouraged. We just try it again.
Vanessa: We really have come so far in so little time and we do work really hard to be appreciated by the school.
On progress…
Alexis:(Silly smirk) Our sleepovers have definitely contributed to our closeness.
Vanessa: We have pretty good positive attitudes. If a stunt falls and people get aggravated we work through it and put the stunt up
strong.
On closeness/family…
Alexis: (Loudly squawks) Um…oh…we have come so far in so little time, I don’t even know how to word it.
Vanessa: Even though we have newer girls we have become really close and I love how well we all get along.
We’ve Got Spirit How About You?
Senior Spotlight
Number One New York Times Best Selling Author, Jessica Chandler!
Interview by: Amanda Flyte
humst.com
Jessica Chandler. You may know her, you may not, but there is no doubt she will change your life. She is
such a charismatic humanitarian. You can only see her talents on a dance floor or on a piece of paper. When
she dances you will be mesmerized and when she writes you slip into an incredible world: A world you will
not want to escape, a world that will come to life when her book becomes the number one book worldwide.
Can you tell us about your book?
My book is about two girls named Kate-Lyn and Jillian who are sent to a mystical land where the inhabitants are on the brink of war because of one rumor and a silver locket necklace. Basically, on in the
magic land they must fight danger because everyone is after the silver necklace they brought with them.
The book has goblins, elves, and magic in it too.
How did you come up with that?
The idea first started at maybe my tenth or eleventh birthday, when my friend’s mom gave me this huge,
metal-ringed journal and she said, “Here! You can use this to write a story about you and Kate-Lyn!”
(Kate-Lyn Dauphinais). Then she added, “Why don’t you write about being locked in a mall?” From that
idea I came up with that the girls would go to another land. (The mall idea has since been turned into a
better one, though.) Most of the really good ideads happened after I accidentally deleted the story off of
my laptop. I had to start from scratch, relying on only my memory. In some ways I am glad that I deleted
it because my story wouldn’t be the same if I hadn’t. You can tell I’ve been working on this for a while!
Who inspired you to become a writer?
Well, I started to write when I was in kindergarten and first grade, so I suppose it’s always been in me. But
J.K. Rowling was one of my big inspirations to write. After I read the Harry Potter series I wanted to be as
successful as her. She was the biggest inspiration to me. Most of the big fantasy movies and books (Lord of
the Rings, Eragon, etc) inspired me to come up with my own ideas. But it was mostly J.K. Rowling.
What is your favorite book? Why?
I have to choose just ONE? *gasps horribly* Okay, okay. If I had to choose I would probably pick Harry
Potter and the Order of the Phoenix, it’s been my favorite for a while now. I like it because of all the different ideas that are introduced—Dumbledore’s Army, Dolores Umbridge—and it’s the longest of the series.
Are you more like Harry Potter or Ron Weasley when it comes to spiders?
Definitely like Ron! I am always freaking out about bugs at home, especially spiders. My brother has to come
in and kill them for me! I understand Ron’s fear completely.
Do you like books better in book form or in movie form?
Photograph by: Amanda Flyte I would say in book form because I get to imagine what the characters and scenery looks like. Also the movies sometimes take out much of the original idea of the book and the movie ends up
being completely awful. Movies ruin everything, so I’m sticking to the books!
What will you miss most about PHS this time next year?
The thing I will probably miss the most are my friends, who are going to different
colleges than I am. And I’ll miss my favorite teachers, and the drama club… I’ll miss
everything! But first and foremost, I’ll miss my friends. They’re why I come to
school.
If you could have dinner with a fictional character from any book, who would it
be and why?
I’d probably want to go to dinner with Professor Snape. Strange, I know, but he’s a
very interesting character. With him I would discuss how he’s a triple agent. That’s
just totally awesome! He’s so compelling and I want to discuss all of this with him!
You’re also involved in the school plays. Do you want to continue with that?
I’m not sure that I will. I’ve only been in the dance ensemble, and this year I am not
going to audition for a lead. If I do continue it’ll only be through dance. I’ll definitely
go to the plays all my friends will be in though!
Jessica hanging out
Do
you
have
a
favorite
play? Why do you like
with the man she’d
it
so
much?
give anything to
I think you know what my favorite play is! A
interview, ProfesVery Potter Musical, which everyone should
sor Severous
know is on YouTube under starkidpotter. I like
Snape.
this play so much because it is a Harry Potter
musical! The songs are hilarious, the actors are
the best I’ve ever seen, and they’re not making
fun of it. They’re making the entire Harry Potter
fandom so much better!!! None of the plays on
whatshouldisee.blogspot.com
Broadway will EVER get this good!
Senior Spotlight
How’s the Weather Up There?
Interview by: Morgan Griffin
Photographs by: Denise Vergato and Becky Griffin
The first to feel a rain drop, to catch a snowflake on her tongue, the first one to feel the sun’s
rays when stepping outside, and the first person that you see when walking down the senior
hallway! Denise Vergato, the captain of the volleyball team, center of the basketball team,
number 32, and standing six foot one inch tall.
How is your senior year so far?
My senior year is alright. Can’t say too much about it. Can’t wait to get out of here.
What is it like being captain of the volleyball team?
Being captain… it’s an overwhelming feeling of authority. I love standing there while you (Morgan) and Hailey yell at everyone in
the huddle. Nothing could be better.
What are you going to miss the most about high school?
What I will miss the most is my friends and taking study hall so I can sit in the gym and relax before my next class.
What colleges are you thinking about going to?
Avery Point, it’s like a little baby UConn.
What are your thoughts about Quidditch?
HAZAHHH! Ohh, I think that it’s the best weekend game ever invented!
Do you still eat Subway in the bathroom?
Well that is supposed to be a secret, but since it’s not anymore then yes sadly, I do still eat Subway in the bathroom, it’s rather soothing.
What do you predict for the rest of the volleyball season? How about the up and coming basketball season?
I believe that we will get to our last game that we have to play and win and receive a banner, and Hailey will break her ankle trying
to jump serve. And I predict that basketball season will be pretty interesting. My goal is to stuff every freshman.
How do you feel about this volleyball season compared to previous ones?
I feel that this volleyball season has been the best one out of my three years of playing because I barely have to do anything.
What is your favorite basketball team?
My favorite basketball team is the Celtics!
Who is your dream guy? Describe him in three words.
My dream guy is Dwight Howard because he is tall dark and handsome, don’t tell Seth!
What is your favorite flavored Gatorade?
My favorite flavored Gatorade would have to be midnight thunder because it makes me
think of the buff guy from White Chicks.
What is your favorite quote?
Any girl can be glamorous. All you have to do is stand still and look stupid.
If you had one wish what would it be?
I wish that I could pause time and rewind when I do
something embarrassing.
How is the weather up there? How do you feel
about being the tallest girl in all of Plainfield?
I love being the tallest girl in school. It’s better than
being short and original.
Page 8
Senior Spotlight
Chillin’ with Choquette
Interview and photograph by: Ian Vinal
In the halls of Plainfield High School there is one individual who many find
intimidating and many underclassmen try to avoid. But to me, he is just a
senior here at P.H.S., a standout thrower in track and one of my friends. His
name is Josh Choquette, and I decided to interview him for the second issue
of The Panther Advocate to let people know whom Josh really is.
Picture taken from norwichbulletin.com
“Benching
425 pounds.”
How does it feel to finally be a senior at P.H.S.?
Its nothing special.
What do you like most about P.H.S.?
The track team.
Who or what influenced you to join the track team?
Nobody, I decided to do it myself.
You do both indoor and outdoor track, is that correct?
Yes
What is the farthest you have thrown?
Shot-put: 56 feet 9 inches. Discus: 159 feet 11 inches. Hammer: 181 feet.
What is your greatest accomplishment while you have attended P.H.S.?
Benching 425 pounds.
If you won the lottery what would you do with your winnings?
Buy a new car.
What is your favorite cartoon? Why?
Looney Tunes, because I grew up watching them.
What is your favorite color?
Orange.
What is your favorite movie?
Tropic Thunder.
What is your favorite type of music?
Rock and metal.
What is your favorite class? Why?
Sports Officiating, because Mr. Arremony is the man!
What is your least favorite class? Why?
English, because of bad experiences (followed by laughter).
Are you going to miss anything about P.H.S. when you graduate?
Maybe a few people, but that’s it.
Do you plan on going to college?
I plan on getting some education after high school.
I know you have received letters or interest from many colleges, Which
one do you like the most?
Yes, and the one I like the most would have to be the University of Miami,
because it is across the street from Miami Beach.
Page 9
Senior Spotlight
Kicking it with Kendrick
Article by: Tori Crandall
This season’s Captains of the boys’ soccer team; Arberi Ferraj, Dylan and Dustin Yaworski, are leading our
boys to success. With a regular season record of 7-6 and 3 ties, Coach Chaviaras is hopeful that the team will
find success in the state tournament this year. In order to get an inside look on how the team’s been doing I
interviewed Kendrick Needham.
Do you think the boys have had a successful season?
Compared to last year our season’s been really good.
What do you think the team has to improve on?
Moving the ball around and getting it up the field.
Which one of your team-mates do you think has the
most potential?
We are a team, not individuals.
What position do you play?
I play center, defensive mid, wherever coach puts me.
What’s your most embarrassing moment?
When I fell down a hill in front of a gym class. There
was snow on the hill too, and ice.
“We are a
team, not
individuals.”
What will you miss the most about the team after
you leave?
The atmosphere, how much fun it is, and COACH!
You used to play football, what made you switch to
playing soccer?
I played [soccer] all my life. I only played football because it was something different and I didn’t like
Mr. Chaviaras at first.
Out of all the sports you participate in which on is
your favorite?
Soccer by far is my favorite, it’s the one I’m best at.
Photograph by BeRcruited.com
Do you ever wish you guys had cheerleaders?
No because we don’t need a distraction.
Do you think you will continue playing soccer after you graduate?
Hopefully I will do some men’s league, because my skills could always use improvement.
What do you enjoy the most about playing?
Hitting someone full force without pads.
How do you feel about this being your last year playing soccer for Plainfield?
I don’t know, it’s a shock. I really don’t want to stop playing soccer here and I’m going to
miss messing with coach.
Senior Spotlight
Can You Rock This Body?
Interview and photographs by: Brandon Wisniewski
Walking through the halls of Plainfield High is a young man who serves our country so we can live the free
lives we do, his name is Matt Fontenault. Everyone should get to know Matt or talk to him at least once because he is a strong, dedicated, kind young man. He is extremely educated on aspects of the military and
anyone interested in serving should have a talk with him. As I interviewed him we had a serious conversation
that ended with many laughs. Matt is an amazing person and everyone should know what he is truly about.
What do you like most about P.H.S.?
The thing I like most about P.H.S. is the cute girls.
What are your plans after high school?
My plans after high school are completing my service years in the military, then becoming a hair stylist.
What branch of the military are you going into? Why?
I am going into the Army National Guard because I want to serve my country and it is
the best way to do it while getting good benefits.
How long do you intend on staying in the military and why?
My contract is for six years, so I have five years left. I plan on staying until my contract is up, unless I like it a lot.
What type of military training have you had to go through or will have to complete for the military?
I have already gone through basic training, but still need to complete my job training.
What is your favorite aspect of the military?
My favorite aspect of the military would have to be physical training.
What job do you intend on pursuing in the military?
Aviation Technical Repair, which is the repairing of electrical systems in different types of helicopters.
How often do you workout and why?
About an hour a day at least because I like to keep a good figure for the ladies and I wanna stay
healthy and not die at a young age.
How often do you get complimented on your guns? What was the best compliment?
Not too often, because I do not try to show them off. I get told that they are pretty.
If Bruce Lee was still alive, would you challenge him to a fight? If so how would you win?
H...E... Double Hockey Sticks No!
What would be a good question to ask on a first date?
How many guys have you held hands with?
Do you believe Lady Gaga is a man?
Yes but only because of her face. Poker Face!
If you could marry anyone, who would it be? Why?
I would marry Zach Savage because he has a rockin body and he is a good football player.
Do you have a girlfriend, if so how do you treat her?
Yes. Her name is Lydia Mackela and I treat her very well because she is the sparkle in my eye when I look at the sun.
Will you keep in touch with many of your friends after you leave for the military?
Yeah definitely. Friends are always first on my list aside from family.
Page 11
Ich Bin Cooler Als Du
Interview and photograph by: Sophia Cross
Do you know someone who can speak four different languages and is learning his fifth? Well now you do.
Marco Kotwasinski came to Plainfield High School through the ASSE or the American Scandinavian Student
Exchange program. I got the opportunity to interview Marco and share with you a little more about him.
What was your first impression on the people here at PHS?
The people here are very open and friendly. You feel like you can be a
part of it all.
What is the difference between PHS and your school back home in
Germany?
Mostly, the building. We don’t have such a big library, cafeteria, or
football field but the rest is like every other school is.
Do you have any pets at home? If so, what are they?
Yes, I have a Belgium Shepherd.
How has your experience been in America so far?
It was a bit shocking the experience...in the everyday school life.
Do you miss your family?
Yes of course and I’m using Skype to talk to them but there is a six hour
time difference, so when we are eating lunch they are eating dinner.
What is the first thing you did when you arrived in America?
I went and ate a strange piece of pizza.
What do you think of all your teachers so far?
I like three fourths of all my teachers.
Who’s your favorite?
Probably Mr. Greene.
Is the music different in Germany from America?
No, we listen to more English music. There are some successful groups but mostly English.
What food do you miss the most from Germany? What is your favorite food that you have tried so far here in America?
Black bread. My host mother is always cooking, but she never tells me what they are.
What classes are you taking right now?
English IV, Physics, Spanish I, and Algebra II.
Would you want to stay here longer then this exchange program?
Of course I would.
Do you play any sports? If so, (and they are offered here at PHS) will you try out for the school team?
Yeah, I went swimming and played basketball. Yes, I will try out for the school team.
What did you think about the homecoming pep rally? Also if you went to the home coming football game what did
you think about it?
Really impressive, they all seemed happy to be a part of it and not forced. We aren’t that into football; it’s kind of like soccer here.
Page 12
Scuba Diving Steve and His Ragtag Band of Underwater Percussionists
Interview by: Nicholas Perry
The Plainfield High School drum line is the backbone of the marching band. They
keep the beat, they are the loudest, and nobody knows hardly anything about them.
With nothing but a camera, a voice recorder, and a head full of questions, I interviewed both the drum coach Steve Petersen, as well as Captain Taylor Perry to reveal the secrets of the Plainfield High School drum line.
Interview with (Scuba) Steve Petersen
Why is your nickname Scuba Steve?
Well apparently it was brought to the attention of the drum line that I am scuba certified
and I’ve gone diving several times. I think it’s a reference to the Big Daddy movie.
Is it true that coaching the drum line at Plainfield High School is purely volunteer? Why do you do it?
Well it’s not PURELY volunteer. Yeah I was compensated buuuuuut it kinda covers gas. I do it because I enjoy teaching. Teaching
is something I have wanted to do for a long time but I got into music performance instead and this is the way I can do both things.
In comparison to other high schools, how do you feel about Plainfield’s drum line?
(Chuckles) uhhhh definitely the most interesting and spirited group of kids that I’ve worked with. Yeah, that’s definitely it. That’s
why it’s enjoyable.
What is your favorite word? Why?
Favorite word (slight pause) Nebulous. Because it describes a lot of what I hear.
What do you do for a living and do you enjoy it?
Uh I am a musician in the Coast Guard Band in New London. I’ve been doing that for about eight years now and uh yeah I think it’s
a great job, I get paid money to play music. And you can’t really go wrong there.
What would you do if attacked by ninjas?
(Thinks for a moment) Probably run as fast as I could. Or curl up into a ball and pretend I’m not there.
Explain the meaning behind the quote “do not be the sock in the parking lot.”
Yeah that was during a marching band rehearsal there was a stray sock in the parking lot. And things weren’t going well on the music end. Somehow to me, seeing a crumpled up sock reminded me of what I was hearing. So I reminded the students to not be the
sock in the parking lot. (Brief pause) And stuff.
If you could change one thing in your life, what would it be and why?
I would like to be able to let go of mistakes I make. Sometimes things just eat at me too long. Hindsight is 20/20 but there is no need
to dwell on bad things in your life.
How did you get started playing drums?
My dad bought a drum set at a yard sale and started giving me lessons. I think I was ten? But I had been playing violin for years before that. I think I started that when I was like six. I had to give one up when I graduated high school because as a music major I didn’t have time to double major so I decided that I would rather play drums.
What is one thing you would like to say to aspiring drummers at P.H.S?
(Before I even finish the question) Practice! A lot! And take private lessons. And
be in band.
(continued on next page)
Page 13
Continued from previous page...interview with percussion captain Taylor Perry
How are you doing today?
I am content, even though I have to use my iPod as a metronome today. (Pouts slightly)
How did you get elected section leader of the drum line?
Last year we tried out and wrote speeches and stuff. And it just so happened I was the only person that tried out for it but Mrs. Ortiz said I was qualified.
Do you take your responsibility seriously?
I do. I do indeed. I have learned that I have to think about others before I think about myself.
And I have to be more responsible than other people which in turn is kind of difficult, but it’s a
good learning experience.
What is your most memorable moment with the drum line?
I would have to say before the first game that Steve wasn’t there and people were worried. So I
gave the drum line our secret motto and people were pumped for it. I liked that day because we
all worked together and came together to get stuff done.
What is the motto of the drum line?
I’ve fallen and I can’t get up!
I understand that you use to play flute in marching band, how much better for you are drums?
It was fun playing flute but I don’t know, its a lot more fun. Its pretty B.A. to play drums. You feel really B.A. when your playing
the drums.
Do you like playing snare or bass better?
Wow that’s a hard question. Well there’s less to worry about while playing bass drum, depending on the parts you’re playing. But I
would probably say snare because I feel more empowered.
What would you do if attacked by ninjas?
Well seeing as how I’m a black belt
What! I didn’t know this!
Well you didn’t know this because I’m lying. (Both laugh) So I would probably do
what Steve said and run away, or if I could find something to hide behind, I would hide
behind it.
What do you plan on doing after graduation?
Well I don’t have a plan, completely yet. But I definitely want to go into music teaching
because I like to teach and I like to sing and play music. I like the feeling of bringing
music to other people and I love the feeling when someone picks up what you’re trying
to tell them. And it really sticks to them and I like the feeling of being that person that
someone can go to if they need things.
If you could start high school over, what would you do differently and why?
(Meagan Miller rudely interrupts by walking in the room with a blaring metronome then
quickly apologizes and scurries to sit quietly in a corner.) I don’t know if I would change
anything. I think I may have needed the mistakes that I made and they were good for me.
And I really like that I was in theatre, chorus, and band through all of my high school
years. Overall, I wouldn't change anything.
Page 14
Welcome to Plainfield High School. A Perfect School Full of Perfect
Students, Perfect Teachers, and a Perfect Educational Structure.
Oldcolony.us
Commentary by: Elle-Jordyn Goslin
On October 4th and 5th we had a couple of “guests” in our school as Mr. Worth would call them. Little did
we all know it was much more than “a couple of guests.” We were asked to tell the truth, not to sugar coat anything. If you
think one of our teachers is teaching ineffectively, or the cafeteria food is awful, then
we were told to speak up and voice our opinions. NEASC didn’t only want the teachers perspective of the school, they wanted the students’ view, and if they were happy
and excited to walk into Plainfield High School every morning.
Most of the students here didn’t think much of it other then knowing it was a
group of people, who followed students, sat in a daunting forsaken room, and had to
put on a fake smile any time they were around. I asked students what they thought
NEASC was coming into our school for. The main answer I got was “I don’t know, the
government coming to look at our school?”, or straight out “I had no idea.” But the
students that did get the opportunity to spend time with a NEASC personnel discovered they weren’t really as scary as you would imagine.
So, we all want to know, what is NEASC? Who are they and why are they
here? NEASC stands for New England Association of Schools and Colleges. The
NEASC committee was judging our school on: core values, beliefs, learning expectations, curriculum, instruction, assessment of and for student learning, school culture
and leadership, and school resources for learning. I sat down with our assistant principal Mr. Bitgood and he explained to me
that NEASC is not the government; they are a volunteer agency of educators from all over New England. They give accreditation to schools every ten years from kindergarten to college, to make sure they are up to date. They ensure that the school is
not just handing out diplomas, that every student is doing what is needed in order to graduate. He believes that our school was
very prepared for the NEASC visit. We started to prepare three years ago. They give you a standardized book full of what is
expected for the school from programs to the structure of the building. We do not know yet the results of our school’s examination. The outcome is revealed in January; they will give us recommendations on what we could improve.
Sophia Cross, a junior, was followed by Mr. Scott Detrick.
She told me she thought they were going to talk to the teachers the
whole time and not care much about her, but in reality only cared
about her opinion. He asked questions like How do you feel
about the block scheduling? “I told him the truth; I don’t like
it having the same classes in the same order everyday gets boring
after awhile. I have sociology first block everyday, he even looked
at me and said… ‘you really have this first block everyday?!’
I told him that’s why I enjoy advisory; we get to switch it up for a while.”
Katrina Sebastian, a senior, was followed by
Mrs. Susan Nargi. Her perspective of NEASC
was almost the same as Sophia’s. She cared
more about the student’s opinion. “I told her the
truth. I said we had problems with funding, especially in the arts, we barely have enough supplies, and struggle funding for the musical.”
Page 15
Wet, Cold and Miserable: My Friday Night
Commentary and Photograph By: Colleen Horta
aislagos.org
Friday October 1st was a busy day for me. Not
only was it the marching band’s first half-time performance, but it was also the National Honor Society’s
Homeless Awareness Night. (The NHS is ran by Mrs.
Bastien and Mrs. Wagner, who both participated in the
event.) Let’s just say that I got the full experience of
what being homeless is all about…
By the time we had marched down to the football field, it was raining. Not exactly pouring, but raining hard enough to dampen the spirits of the band.
Thankfully, by the time that half-time rolled around, the rain had slowed to that annoying drizzle, and I was already thinking about the long night ahead of me.
Mrs. Bastien and Mrs. Wagner
I could see my fellow classmates setting up boxes on the practice field, and tarps
were being brought out as the rain continued to fall. I started to plan out how to build my “box mansion” as my friend Jenna and I
called it, but nothing was coming to mind.
As the game ended, Ledyard taking the win 51-7, I noticed that the rain was finally starting to slow down, and I was hoping
that we’d be able to stay somewhat dry. Jenna and I gathered our boxes, put all of our blankets inside a trash can (I figured that a
trashcan would keep the blankets dry, and yes it was clean), and started to carry our belongings outside. We opened the doors at the
upper level of the school, and I felt like crying as it poured outside. Thankfully, my color guard instructor didn’t mind driving us
down to the lower level parking lot, but we still had to drag our boxes and trash can down the hill to the practice field. And yes, at
this point it was still raining. It continued to rain as we walked across the field through the mud and puddles. By this point, I was
soaked through (I had forgotten to put on my sweatshirt, and only had on Under Armor and sweatpants), and I could feel the cold
creeping through and chilling my skin. To my dismay, as soon as we had gotten to the end of the field, we were told that due to the
rain, everyone ditched the boxes and moved to the rotunda. Jenna and I gathered our blankets and pillows and grudgingly made our
way back to the school. We pitched camp with our friends Meagan, Katrina, and Pat, and tried our best to keep warm. However,
while lying on cold cement, in wet clothes, at 10p.m. in October…it’s rather hard to stay warm.
I spent the next seven hours shivering next to my friends, dozing in and out for maybe an hour at a time. We aren’t allowed
to have electronics (yes that included cell phones), and we could only bring water to drink. So I pretty much had a lot of time to think
about how I will do whatever it takes to NOT become homeless. As 6:30a.m. rolled around, I was ready to go home. I think the thing
that got to me most was being cold. I wasn’t terribly hungry, and for sleeping on cement, I wasn’t that uncomfortable. I was just
cold. Thankfully, my mom arrived just on time and Jenna and I jumped into our warm car and let out a sigh of relief as our night
finally ended.
The National Honor Society hosts Homeless Awareness Night every year, around the same time in the autumn. We must all
pledge money that goes towards Project Pin: a local charity that collects and distributes food and supplies for the homeless. The officers and advisors take the money, raid Wal*Mart to buy food and supplies, and then donate everything to Project Pin. Even though
this may not be the most enjoyable event we host, it is one that definitely helps a good cause, and that is what ultimately matters.
College: They’ll Let Anyone In
Commentary by: Zachary Moon Photographs by: Taylor Gageby
Have you thought much about your future? Have you put much thought on where you
want to go to college or what your career path will be? Are you going to join the military
or be a CEO? Or is being manager of the year at McDonalds right for you? There are
tons and tons of jobs that will allow you to be successful; you just have to find what’s
right for you. On October 19th, 2010, I attended the college fair in the cafeteria to investigate all the different options we have to choose
from. Many different schools came to the college fair and I had the privilege to check them
all out. The education that these schools provide range from auto body technology at Lincoln Technical Institute, to drafting at Porter and Chester institute. As I walked around I saw
many different kids intrigued in all of the types of stations the schools had set up. The intensity of it all was pretty high. The National Guard had some of the students do push ups for
shirts and other things and the US Army was there showing a video about basic training. For
all you hair stylists out there Paul Mitchell school of Cosmetology was there talking about
their school handing out pamphlets. Special thanks goes out to all the colleges out there that
came to our school to try and help us figure out what our futures hold and to Mrs. Liebel for
organizing the event.
Page 16
Triumphant Musicians Making a Mark
Article by: Cassie Guerin
Whenever Tri-M is mentioned many people, teachers and students alike ask what it is. Only music students really know that there is a
Tri-M Music Honor Society at Plainfield High School, so this article is to let everyone know what Tri-M really is.
Tri-M also held the first music banquet last year that is now an annual event. This year
our officers are: Cassie Guerin president, Carter Jackson vice president, Meagan Miller
secretary, and Colleen Horta treasurer. We have already started planning many new and
exciting events including working with the Boodwin family’s annual Halloween Trail.
The trail is non-profit and all proceeds are donated to Breast Cancer Awareness. Along
with the Halloween trail, we are holding a pumpkin carving competition for the faculty.
After faculty carves the pumpkins on October 25th, they will be on display for students
to vote. Like the penny war, students vote for their favorite pumpkin by dropping their
loose change in the corresponding jars. Later in the year Tri-M will also be hosting a
student showcase that acts must audition and be approved for.
2009-2010 Tri-M Members
Hopefully now everyone will recognize the Tri-M Music Honor Society as a legitimate
and serious organization that works a step at a time to improve not only our school, but
the community at large.
Plainfield High School
Cooking Contest Results
It is with great pleasure that I
announce the winners of this year’s
Plainfield High School cooking
contest.
The winners are as follows:
First place with his Moulton Lava
Cakes is Andre Miller
Second place with his banana bread is
Matthew Fontenault
Third place for his Missouri Cookies
goes to Shawn Bastin.
CONGRARULATIONS TO ALL!
- Mrs. Salo
Www.norwichbulletin.com
Tri-M stands for Modern Music Masters and is a program of the
MENC (The National Association for Music Education). To gain acceptance to
Tri-M one must maintain a certain average in academic classes, and a higher
average in the music classes as well as be a sophomore that has participated in
the program for at least a year. The Tri-M Music Honor Society was first established at Plainfield High School in the 2009-2010 school year. Nineteen students
were inducted at our winter concert, and became the foundation for our society.
Last year was a building year for us to get established and work out what our
goals were for Tri-M. Towards the end of the year, after the devastating earthquake in Haiti, we held a penny war that lasted a few weeks. We raised over
$400 that we donated to the Red Cross to help the people of Haiti. Our penny
war caught the eye of local reporters and we ended up with a front page story in
the Norwich Bulletin. Emily Groves, a Norwich Bulletin reporter wrote the article, opening with this: “Sometimes, all it takes to make a difference is a little
change. But in the case of a group of Plainfield High School students who have Tri-M Members holding pennies for the penny war.
been raising money for Haiti relief
efforts through a “penny war,” it’s actually a lot of change: $460 worth.”
Cracking Down with the New Sophomore Officers
Interviews by: Rose Labrie
Sophomores are fierce, loud and outgoing. The class officers are president Derek Meier,
vice president Jordan Beauregard, treasurer Dylan Baker and I am the secretary. Sadly, we
went on a trip to New York City last year and we lost money after being about $600 short.
We must raise back this money for junior and senior prom, and other class activities. Our
class advisor Mrs. Salo told us a little bit of info about her years with the sophomore class
and those class dues everyone is talking about. The vice president, Jordan Beauregard,
former president for the class of 2013, tells us a little bit about ideas for fundraising and
about how much money we lost because of our trip.
Interview with Mrs. Salo
Class dues
Freshman: $15
Sophomore: $20
Junior: $25
Senior :$30
What and when are the sophomore
class dues, due?
Please pay ASAP. Class dues are used to
offset experiences for class trips,
graduation and prom.
Are you close to the past and present
class officers?
I have seen this year’s sophomore
officers more than I saw all the other
years combined.
How long have you been the
sophomore class advisor?
Four years.
Why did you decide to be the
sophomore class advisor?
There was an opening and it seemed
manageable.
Photograph by Cynthia McIntosh
Left to right: Rose Labrie, Dylan Baker, Jordan Beauregard, Derek Meier & Mrs.
Salo.
Interview with Jordan Beauregard
What are some of the activities that the
sophomore officers are planning to
have?
The sophomores are planning a coffee and
tea fundraiser, and an after school dodgeball tournament, as well as a movie night
with so much more to come.
How do you get people to get
involved with the funding?
We will use announcements and
fellow sophomore officers to go to their
advisories and tell friends to spread the
word.
How much money did the NY trip take
out of the sophomore account?
For some reason, even though I was
president last year I never knew, but I
knew we were $600 short.
Why did they take the money out of the
sophomore savings?
I ask myself that same question,
because we were $600 short is the reason
money was taken, but they should not have
taken it out of the class account; they
should have taken it from the individual
accounts of those responsible for planning
and carrying out the trip.
What fundraisers did you do last year?
We had a pie fundraiser and that was all.
Fundraising opportunities were limited.
Do you like being the vice president or
president better and why?
To be honest, at the moment being vice
president is probably better
because last year as president even I couldn’t do much as the freshman president because you can’t do much as president and
now we are getting more done. But that
won’t stop me from running for president
for junior year.
Day of Silent Solidarity
Commentary by: Taylor Gageby
Why are you pro-choice?
“I think people should have
a choice to have an abortion
or not because it’s there
baby and their life.”
-Chelsea Elkins
Why are you pro-life?
“I’m pro-life because I think
it’s wrong to kill fetuses because your taking a life and
that person could do something important in life.”
-Zachary Moon
Tuesday, October 19th was Pro-Life Day of Silence at Plainfield High School. Students and faculty are allowed to wear a piece of tape somewhere on their person to represent their thoughts on
abortion. The tape or sticker could either say “PRO-LIFE” or “PRO-CHOICE.” This day of silence started in 2004. It came about when a student from Mcneese State University asked Bryan
Kemper, founder of this event, ‘What can I do to work with students all around the country to end
abortion?” He replied, “what if we got students to not only act in solidarity with others, but also
with the children that are dying every day?” So they spread the word and now schools all around
the country, and other countries participate in this day.
For those of you who don’t know what pro-life or pro-choice are about listen up! To say
someone is pro-life is saying that they are opposed to abortions, that fetuses are human beings,
and have a right to live. To say someone is pro-choice is saying that a woman should have the
option of abortion, and to continue or terminate her pregnancy. Abortions are legal in Connecticut at the moment.
I sat down with Mr. Hart, the pro-life coordinator
who brought the event to PHS.
What is pro-life day?
You wear the red tape somewhere on your body, on your
mouth if you want to stay silent just to show support of the
pro-life movement. We think babies should be protected in
the womb.
What do you think about pro-choice?
I think pro-choice is the opposing viewpoint, I think it’s a
nice way to phrase it, but actually I think a baby’s life is
sacred regardless of how small it is or how far developed it is in the womb. Someone needs to
speak out on behalf of the children who can’t speak for themselves.
Whether your pro-life or pro-choice, one special day a year you have the opportunity to voice your opinion, or voice
your opinion with silence.
http://www.google.c
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url=http://www.cafe
press.com/%2Bproli
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er_sticker,6546924
7&usg=__8p1RXoG
Why We Celebrate Day of the Dead
Mr. Depasquale’s Spanish classes celebrate this day so they may actively participate in an authentic holiday that is celebrated not
only in Mexico, but in many Spanish speaking countries. It’s one thing to tell students about this celebration but it’s another thing
when they actually get to help build the altar and see it for themselves. They also celebrate this day in order to reach out to the
school community. All staff members are invited to the classroom to participate in the celebration.
How we celebrate:
The tradition is to make an altar in memory of your deceased relatives. On the altar they place pictures of the deceased person or
people along with foods and or everyday items that the person liked. Many students went home and found pictures of deceased relatives and placed them on the altar. Even more students went home and cooked foods and brought them in to the celebration.
The purpose of the altar:
It is believed that on this day the spirits of the dead come back to earth and celebrate with the living. The food and drink on the altar
give the spirits the strength they need for the journey and the candles assist them in seeing their way back to earth.
Some common foods related to this day:
Sugar skulls (las Calaveras)
Bread of the dead (pan de muertos)
Any food or drink that was enjoyed by the deceased person when alive
Mole (a spicy chocolate sauce with several other ingredients as well)
One last point:
The Mexican viewpoint of death is different from the American one. Day of the dead is not a sad day, but rather a day of celebration. Consider the following quote:
“To the inhabitant of New York, Chicago, and Atlanta, death is a word that is never uttered because it burns the lips. The Mexican however, frequents it, caresses it, and entertains it. It is one of his favorite things and his enduring love.”
-- Emilio Ortega of Oaxaca México
One Month, Nine Lives
Commentary by: Corrie Cirelli
In September 2010, there were nine suicides in many different states in the United States; they were all teenage boys, ages
thirteen to nineteen. In over half of the cases the boys were gay, though it is unclear if the others were. However, all of them were
bullied in some way at school and online. With these cases almost all of the parents claimed to make numerous reports, but the schools made no actions to intervene in the bullying. These boys did not need to be treated this way, and if they
weren’t maybe they would still be alive today.
The first boy who committed suicide in September: was thirteen year
old Seth Walsh. Seth lived in California and had been attending Jacobsen Middle
School for a year. However this year he only attended two weeks before he was
transferred into independent study, his parents say because of relentless bullying.
Walsh was found hanging from a tree branch unconscious and not breathing. He
was rushed to the Kern Medical Center by helicopter and was kept on life support for ten days before his family pulled the plug. While his parents say there
where many calls to the school, the officials at Tehachapi Union School District say that they have no records of these reports. Police say
they cannot prosecute the students that were involved in bullying him because teasing is
not a criminal act.
Asher Brown
Seth Walsh
Asher Brown was the second boy to commit suicide in the month of September; like Walsh he was also
thirteen. Brown was a Texas resident who attended Hamilton Junior High School. Another thing Walsh
and Brown have in common is that both parents say they made countless reports to the school and neither
school took action. Brown’s parents say that, “He was picked on for his small size, religion, because he
didn’t have designer clothes, and accused him of being gay.” One incident of bullying his parents shared
with the public is when bullies tripped him down a flight of stairs and then when he regained his balance
they tripped him down the other set of stairs. The morning he committed suicide he told his stepfather he
was gay, and even though his stepfather was fine with that, later in the day Asher shot himself. His stepfather came home to find him dead.
Billy Lucas was a fifteen year old boy who lived in Indiana and attended
Greensburg Community High School. He never actually told anyone in his school that
he was gay but they bullied him and called him derogatory names. On the day that Billy
took his life fellow students revealed that some of his tormentors told him he should kill
himself. Lucas’ mother came home to find Billy had hung himself in their barn. He left
a suicide note, but he did not blame a certain person and he didn’t confirm or deny that
he was gay, however he did kill himself because of anti-gay bullying.
William Lucas
Tyler Clementi was an eighteen year old freshman at Rutgers
University. On September 22nd at 8:42 p.m. he updated his Facebook status to,
“Jumping off the gw bridge sorry.” Clementi was not only bullied, but his roommate secretly video taped him having a “sexual encounter” and posted it live on
the internet. This is something Tyler could never erase and was emotionally
shocked with. His body has not yet been recovered but Dharun Ravi, who was
his roommate, and Molly Wei, who was Ravi’s friend, have been charged with
two counts each of invasion of privacy.
Tyler Clementi
Raymond Chase was a sophomore at Johnson and Wales University in Providence,
Rhode Island; he was studying culinary arts. He was openly gay, and no one is sure why he
committed suicide. He hung himself in his dorm on Wednesday September 29th 2010. Not
only was he the fifth gay suicide in September, but he was the second college student to
commit suicide.
The other boys who committed suicide are not officially recognized as gay; however they need to be mentioned. Cody J, Barker was a seventeen year old Shiocton High
School student from Wisconsin, who unexpectedly took his life. Harrison Chase Brown
was a fifteen year old sophomore at Poudre High School Student in Rand, Colorado. Caleb
Nolt was a fourteen year old freshman at North Side High School in Fort Wayne, Indiana.
The last boy was Felix Sacco who was a seventeen year old senior at Saugus High School
in Rhode Island who jumped off an overpass.
Raymond Chase
Even though police are still investigating, all nine suicides are thought to have been because of
anti-gay bullying, and if not just bullying. Any type of bullying is a terrible act that you should not
commit. These boys were someone’s son, brother, cousin, or friend. How would you feel if your
words were the reason someone took his or her own life? All of these boys will be missed and we
should honor their memory. If you go to http://billylucas.org/ you can submit your name, email
address, and your town and state to take a pledge against LGTB
Harrison Chase Brown
[Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender] bullying. It does not
matter the persons sexual orientation, gender, race, or how they
express themselves no one should be bullied. If you or someone
you know is bullied tell someone at school, or even one of your
friends because chances are that they will stand by you and try to
help.
However, if you do bully someone because of their sexual
orientation you are making fun of them for they way the were born.
Caleb Nolt
They can’t change that so no matter how much you torment them, nothing
is going to change. It’s like bullying someone for being a boy or a girl. If you do not believe in homosexuality please do not use vulgar language or make fun of them, respect their ideas and opinions like
they respect yours. Everyone deserves respect and if we can come together to help make a change, our
environment for learning will be much better. And to those of you who wore purple on October 20th,
thank you for taking a stand against bullying, standing up for gay rights, or both.
Cody J Barker
Pictures Taken From:
http://www.lgbtqnation.com/ - William Lucas
http://www.legacy.com/ – Felix Sacco
http://www.cbsnews.com/ - Tyler Clementi
http://trendygossip.com - Raymond
http://www.coloradoan.com/ - Harrison Chase-Brown
http://cmsimg.postcrescent.com/ – Cody Barker
http://www.indianasnewscenter.com/ - Caleb Nolt
http://www.queerty.com/ -Asher Brown
http://www.sfgate.com/ – Seth Walsh
Information From:
http://www.advocate.com/
http://www.truecrimereport.com/
http://www.lgbtnation.com/
http://www.care2.com/
http://www.nymag.com/
http://www/autostraddle.com/
http://www/towleroad.com/
http://coloradoan.com/
http://www/wisonsingazette.com/
Felix Sacco
Page 22
Gay Blood is Worse than Death
Commentary by: Steven Tucker
What rights do homosexuals have? They have the right to have domestic partnerships. A domestic partnership is a legal or personal relationship between two individuals
who live together and share a common domestic life but are not joined by marriage. What
about married? Five states currently allow same-sex couples to marry. Gay marriage is
legal in Massachusetts, Connecticut, Iowa, Vermont, Maine and most recently New
Hampshire. The District of Columbia also now recognizes gay marriages as of March 3,
2010. That is only 12% of the states that allow gay marriage.
thepoliticalcarnival.net
http://www.stateline.org/live/detai
ls/story?contentId=347390
http://www.thebody.com/content/
art13321.html
http://www.redcrossblood.org/
More problems with the rights of homosexuals are that they can’t give blood. The
American Red Cross has announced that there is a critical blood shortage. The blood
shortage is throughout the United States as patients desperately wait for blood and bone
marrow donations. Only 38% of Americans are eligible to donate blood and of those only
8% do, stated by the Red Cross. Blood donations save lives and the circumstances in
which they are needed often require immediate attention. Donors of rare blood types are
increasingly difficult to find, prolonging the search and decreasing the chance of a patient's survival. In response to the AIDS crisis of the 1980's the Food and Drug Administration banned any man who has had sex with another man since 1977 from giving blood.
That probability of a homosexual having AIDS or any other man is the same. It is not fact
that gays have a higher risk for AIDS.
Nothin’ Wrong With a Little Bump n’ Grind
Commentary by: Danielle Willard
“Bumping and grinding” is a type of dancing typically considered sexually charged
and inappropriate, also known as “freak dancing.” This dance craze is sweeping the nation
from night clubs in L.A, to high school dances across the country. Plainfield High School’s
homecoming was no exception. Everyone has his or her own opinion on “bumping and
grinding”; some schools are even starting to ban this wild type of dancing.
At a school dance, the second you hear your favorite song come on the first thing
you want to do is grab your best friends or date and hit the dance floor. Some kids do the
classic “robot” or the “sprinkler”, some dance like it’s a ballet recital, and others bump and
grind. Bumping and grinding, (a.k.a. freak dancing) is shown in the picture on the right. It is
sexually suggestive dancing which includes booty rubbing on one another and hands all
over the place. This type of dancing is usually between a male and a female, and sometimes even female on female or male on male.
It’s no wonder everybody’s partaking in this dance craze; musical artists are promoting it! Songs such as R. Kelly’s “Bump
N’ Grind” include the lyrics- “I don’t see nothin’ wrong with a little bump n’ grind.” Also the hit 2005 song from Pretty Ricky
“Grind With Me” includes lyrics such as- “Oh baby grind on me.” Not to mention, nearly every woman found in music videos is seen wearing sexually clad
clothing, bumping and grinding their hearts out.
Some schools are starting to take action in banning this type of dancing
from their schools. East Grand Rapids High School, in Michigan, placed a
school rule which “prohibits all sexually overt dancing” and requires all students to dance face to face to make sure no grinding is going on. Principal Mark
Thomas of Northview High School, also in Michigan, stated that it’s not his
“plan to be the sheriff and start kicking students out of dances”, he believes that
if we “expect students not to freak dance, we need to teach them how to dance
appropriately. Freak dancing is the only way some kids know how.”
Schools may ban it, and mothers may hate it, but I’m not sure there’s
any stopping bumping and grinding now.
Page 23
Aww Yeah Jersey Shore Yeah Commentary by: Emily Lafave
I think it’s safe to say that we’ve all heard of the television show that’s about a house full of “Guidos” and
“Guidettes.” Thursday nights at 10 pm, turn on MTV, grab a bag of popcorn, a cup of soda, and enjoy Drama Fest 2010.
Whether you hate it, or love it, it’s still an obsession.
http://www.Howtomakegif.com/
In December of 2009, MTV aired a new television show entitled “Jersey Shore.” What exactly the show was about
baffled the minds of quite a few, but as the show rolled on it became quite clear: this was a reality show based on a house
full of “Guidos” and “Guidettes,” both terms referring to young Italian men and women which the show sensationalized.
Eight guests checked into a beautiful cottage near the shore of Jersey, each guest making a name for him or herself.
The boys are: Pauly D, a genuine, funny guy with an insane
blow-out. Ronnie, the buff, tan, and shady party man. Vinny, the quiet,
composed, mama’s boy with the huge Italian family and a big heart. And
last but certainly not least, Mike “The Situation”, the self-absorbed, sixpack bearing, King Guido, leader of the pack, and everyone’s favorite……
or so he thinks. You know what they, I mean, he likes to say… everybody
loves The Situation!
Oh and let’s not forget the Guidettes: Jenni “Jwoww”, is known
for her risqué, revealing clothing, tough attitude, and wonderful extensions. Sammi Sweetheart, apparently known for being the quote unquote
“sweetest ‘girl’ you will ever meet”, also for her uncanning love for a fellow roommate Ronnie, despite his constant shadiness. Angelina, the selfproclaimed “Kim Kardashian of Staten Island” better known as the “Rob
“Fist pumping like a champ!”
Kardashian of Staten Island”, also known for her history of leaving the
show, being the most hated in the house, and the biggest liar. Once again,
last but certainly not least, Snooki, Snooks, Snicks, Snickers, Shnookers, etc… the tiniest, the tannest, and the one looking
for a Gorilla juice-head to share her time on the shore with. She is well known for her love of animals, exaggerated poof in
her hair, and constant misfortunes.
The show has caused much controversy across America. Some people belonging to the Italian race say that the
terms “guido” and “guidette” are offensive. They also say that the show gives Italian’s a bad name. The majority of what
they show on this program include drunken arguments, sober arguments, rivalries, love triangles, gossip, and living a life of
“getting crazy, and getting wild.” Almost everybody in the cast has gotten into a fight or two. A lot of the arguments start
with lies, leading to confusion, which start an all out brawl. The cast all seem to love each other still, no matter how much
they fight, well all except Angelina, who left twice.
Over the past year or so, we’ve all grown to either love or hate the show and what it promotes… but like I said
before, hate it or love it, it’s still an obsession!!!

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http://assets.nydailynews.com/
Guido - The word "Guido" is derived from either
the Italian name "Guido" or the Italian verb "guidare”
which means to drive. It started out as an insult but
it’s not so often considered insulting today.
Guidette - Female version of “Guido.”
Blow-out - A men’s hairstyle, using gel and or
products similar to gel to temporarily style the hair
away from the head (particularly upward.)
Gorilla juice-head - “Men, tall, completely
jacked, steroids, like multiple growth hormones” Jenni “Jwoww”
Grenade - The solitary ugly girl always found with a
group of hotties.
Creep - Stalker-like method of flirting.
Hippo - The larger version of a “grenade.”
House Music - Electronic dance music originated
in Chicago.
Robbery - To “commit a robbery” on your bro is to
steal his most recent conquest.
Socially Awkward, Facebook Approved
On the first of October, eager viewers and Facebook users
across the nation lined up to see The Social Network, the new film
that documents the controversy and creation of Facebook. My first
impressions of the movie were influenced by the commercials, which
portrayed it as a comedic film with an interesting, true story. While I
didn’t have as many laughs as I could have had, The Social Network
is a well fabricated production with merit for being directed by
David Fincher, director of other hits such as Fight Club.
The movie opens with a scene that captures the personality
of the protagonist, Mark Zuckerberg: the creator of Facebook. In
having a conversation with his current girlfriend, he covertly calls
her not very intelligent while bragging about his perfect SAT scores.
Zuckerberg obviously isn’t a smooth talker with women, and it lands
The real Mark Zuckerberg
him a few less-than-preferable titles. After this bust, he goes online
and flaunts his technology prowess by bypassing all Harvard University’s cyber security, creating a
website that gets thousands of views in the first hour, and crashing the schools’ network.
The Social Network goes on to explain how Mark Zuckerberg reached the idea for Facebook. He
allegedly stole the idea from two twin brothers at Harvard University, at which he also attended. It is the
accusation that fuels the entire movie, as it is a series of flashbacks from the hearing, in which the two
brothers are suing him for stealing the idea for Facebook. There is also conflict between Zuckerberg and
the co-founder of Facebook, Eduardo Saverin, which shows Zuckerberg’s betrayal toward a friend.
What I found most intriguing about the movie was that it did not try to bog down the story with a
cheesy romance or some action-based plot. I found it remarkable that the production was able to stick to
the facts, and only adding in bits and pieces of humor to
spice up the technicalities. Some may have found The
Social Network to be bland because of its proclivity to
computers, coding, and all-around nerdiness, but it was
surprisingly entertaining to the common audience (it is
about Facebook, after all).
Although the movie was successful in creating
an atmosphere of nerdy humor and realism, there were
some aspects that weren’t quite right. College life is
very much stereotyped. Fraternities are portrayed with
underground practices, heavy drinking, and partying.
Mark’s intentions for creating Facebook were also not
set in the right light. It seems as if he wanted money and Jesse Eisenberg (Mark Z.) in The Social Network
fame to only get girls and glory.
Even Zuckerberg thought these aspects were exaggerated. Zuckerberg personally thought the
movie “got a lot of stuff wrong and random details right,” Mark said in an interview at the Startup School
at Stanford University, “they made it seem as if I wanted to get girls or into some special institution. . .
[The film makers] can’t wrap their heads around the idea that someone might build something because
they like building things.”
With this new movie also comes a little controversy. On the release date for The Social Network,
Mark Zuckerberg made a $100 million—yes, that’s $100,000,000—donation to Newark Public Schools in
New Jersey. His intentions for the donation are presumably to assist one of the nation’s worst school
districts. Still, why Newark is unknown, as he did not attend those schools. It could be a publicity stunt to
accompany the movie, a way to turn attention from some negative comments about him, or simply a way
for the prodigy to help out education.
Whatever the reason, The Social Network, the movie about Facebook’s creation and all the
shenanigans that went along with it, was a huge success. Though not all of the movie’s facts were onpoint and some the story was misleading about Zuckerberg’s personality, the title maintained its integrity.
The film was successful in portraying the lesser-known story of the origins of Facebook and its quick
spread. Thanks to Mark Zuckerberg, all Facebook users can rejoice, for your social network has been
created. For those socially awkward like Mark, or for anyone who just needs to socialize, look no further
than Facebook.
http://www.aceshowbiz.com/still/0
0005715/the_social_network15.ht
http://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Mar
k_Zuckerberg_CEO_Facebook.jpg
Review by: Nathan Boutin
Page 25
Friday Night Lights
Article and photographs by: Nate Etchells
Have you been to any of the football games
here at Plainfield high school? Have you ever thought
about how priceless these games are? High school football games are the just about the best thing you can
experience these years of your life. The hype of the
crowd, the tension on the sidelines with the coaches,
refs and players makes you feel the action. You feel the
excitement as you get into the stands, seeing your and
other parents screaming and acting young again and
losing their cool all within minutes of each other.
Football games give you something to do on
Friday nights that is exciting and overwhelming all at
the same time. Being at these games for me brings back to the times when I played at the Rams
field, leaving all you have on the field. That's what makes the game, the players just ripping their
guts out if that's what it takes to win. I’ve seen Josh Randeau push himself to the limit and all he
wants to do is just get back out on the field. That's what the spirit of football is, willing to give all
you have to win that game. Some people may just see this game as a piece of leather with big guys
in pads hitting each other like ogres fighting for dinner, but they couldn't be more wrong. These
games represent the heart of high school, and the sad thing is that you only have these four years to
experience them. At no other time in you’re life will you have such an experience to see your classmates fight for your school, see your parents go as crazy and feel the vibe as you jump out of the
cold metal bench as the Panthers score a touch down, as you’re drinking hot co-co in the cold and
being there for your team.
So why not go to the next one?
It’s next Friday, November 12th versus
Waterford, here at Plainfield High School.
Page 26
Z-Status Interview and Photograph by: Cynthia McIntosh
On October 20, 2010, I went to interview Coach Zielinski. This is difficult since he and I are very
busy people. I ended up catching him during my lunch break and we talked a little bit about how
the girls’ soccer season is going. I have been to all of their home games and can say that from my
point of view they have done very well this season. As you read below you will be able to find out
about the girls’ soccer season so far this year.
What was last year’s record?
2-13-1
What is your record so far in this season?
3-9-1
Who are your captains this year?
Kelsey Vallee and Lindsay Lehtonen.
How many hours do you practice a day?
Two hours a day everyday except Sunday.
How do you and the girls get pepped up before a game?
They sing on the bus and we have a team huddle.
Would you say that the girls have worked hard for this season?
Yes the girls work very hard everyday.
How many games do you have left?
We have three games left.
Do you think that you will win any of the remainder games?
Yes I do. I hope that we will win at least two.
Why do you coach girls’ soccer?
I played soccer growing up and coaching soccer is a way to stay connected to
the sport I love.
What else do you coach?
I also coach Lacrosse.
Do you enjoy what you do for a living?
Yes I look forward to coaching it’s a great way to end my day.
Photographs by:
Nate Etchells
Panthers on a Killing Streak!
By Morgan Griffin Photographs by: Becky Griffin
The girls’ volleyball team has advanced through the years and has become one of the top teams in the small division! The
volleyball program has been going on for four years now, and the first years they had less than satisfactory stats. In 2007 they went
1-18, in 2008 they went 11-9, and in 2009 they went 17-6 and this year 2010 our final record is 14-4. As you can see there has been
an extreme amount of progress though the years and with a young team like ours we can only get better. Our losses this year include
Waterford, Fitch, and Griswold.
Leaders in Stats.
Leader in kills: Hailey Griffin– 223
Leader in Blocks: Denise Vergato-16
Leader in digs: Taylor Smith– 438
Leader in assists-Morgan Griffin– 243
Leader in service aces– Hailey Griffin–72
Page 28
Lipstick, Lounges, and Laughs
Commentary by: Jeremy Mack
Excitedly, I closed the door and started heading to the rotunda, knowing that I had
just escaped honors algebra III. When I arrived at my destination I was pleased to see most
of Mr. Greene’s journalism I class and a few scavengers from journalism II that also wanted
to break away from their normal routines. In total, there were thirty-two students attending
the field trip to The University of Connecticut to visit The Daily Campus newspaper office.
After a long bus ride, we finally made it to the journalism building on campus.
When entering the building, all students were able to grab an issue of The Daily Campus ,
UConn’s daily newspaper, and peruse it before meeting the editor-in-chief, John Kennedy.
When we first entered the work room at The Daily Campus’s headquarters, there was a very
relaxed atmosphere; there were comfortable looking
Russel Blair and John Kennedy
couches everywhere, comics on the walls, an old Nintendo 64, and a lipstick smudge on
a lamp near where I was sitting. We were all excited to hear
the editor-in-chief talk.
John Kennedy talked about the long hours that he has
to spend working on the paper for there to be a quality copy
released everyday. He said most nights that he would stay in
his office until three in the morning working. Then he talked
about how there are many people who work for the paper to
be successfully printed every day. Over seventy-five people
put effort in for the journalism program at The University of
Connecticut. John began asking if the group had any questions about fifteen minutes into the conversation, when we had
been expecting at least an hour of talking before leaving the
office.
Luckily Russell Blair, the associate editor, came in at
just the right time to break the awkward silence with plenty to
talk about. There was a much smoother discussion after he
arrived, with topics ranging from parking lot parties to the
paper’s top articles that received recognition in the news. After the discussion there was a short Q&A about the paper before we
headed off to the Student Union building, where we ate lunch. There was a large selection of food including Wendy’s, Panda
Express, Blimpee, a coffee shop, and a deli-like store.
After a very filling lunch, we headed off to The UConn Dairy Bar for free ice cream that Mr. Greene generously paid
for. There were many students and none of them looked displeased by the delicious ice cream that UConn produces. After the
ice cream we finalized our trip with a small walk to see the cloned cows that made our ice cream. I really don’t know why we
did that but it kept us from classes and was a good time. Then we piled into the bus to return to Plainfield and arrived just in
time to catch the buses home, with only fifteen minutes of class left. All in all, the field trip was a huge success.
Cloned Cows at UConn