June 2010

Photo by Mackenzie oatMan GraPhic illustration by kiMberlyn bailey

Editorial

Editor-in-ChiefCaitlin Sawyer

Managing EditorCatie Furletti

Layout EditorRachel Clark

Senior WriterEmily DiFabio

Senior ColumnistMary Losurdo

Chief PhotographerMackenzie Oatman

Art DirectorKimberlyn Bailey

Business ManagerAaron Callahan

WebmasterKaitlyn ScanlonSports Editor

Christina BuckinghamEntertainment Editor

Faith WhitelyClublicity Editor

Shaughnessy DarrowAlumni EditorAaron CallahanPhotographer

Mary Kate TorbittAd Representative

Dacota KazyakaAd DesignerEmily FultzArt Staff

Ashley FidlerSports Writers

Brittany Ross, Jasmine Davis, Vanessa Sheffield

ReportersKylie Wyman

AdvisersBill Reeser

Mike McCrobie

June 2010Buccaneer Bulletin

Oswego High School’s Student Voice

The Buccaneer Bulletin, a member of the Empire State School Press Association, and The Quill and Scroll, is published periodically by the students of the Oswego High School, 2

Buccaneer Blvd.; Oswego, New York 13126.It is intended as a vehicle to inform, educate,

and entertain the student body.Printing services are provided by The

Palladium-Times. Opinions expressed are those of the students and do not necessarily reflect

those of the administration or the advisers.

Buccaneer Bulletin

2

buccaneerbulletin.wordpress.com

Drawing illustration By KimBerlyn Bailey

To the OHS Inc classes that participated in a fundraiser with the Friends of the Fort to •help raise money for alternate funds to help support the Fort Ontario.

To the passing of the school budget which showed the community’s involvement and •its support of our school district.

To the spring sports teams and individuals who have advanced to sectionals for all of •their hard work throughout the season.

To Oswego High School teacher Mr. Ed Stacy and his wife, Mrs. Terri Cullen-Stacy of •Charles E. Riley School for their cooperative teaching arrangement which brings high school students to Riley to conduct lessons in elementary economics.

To the recent “Evening of Big Band Jazz” with special guest artist saxophonist Ernie •Watts, who joined the Oswego High and Oswego Middle School Jazz Ensembles. Watts is a saxophonist from California with a long and storied career, and his appearance in Oswego was a truly special night for our students.

To the students who have decided to write on the lockers. Not only is this defacing •school property, but it is also disrespectful. Permanent markers or not, it’s destruction of something that doesn’t belong to you.

To the sauna-like conditions in the old gym during the end of May. We can only hope •that the unbearable heat and humidity are not going to be the same conditions in which Regents exams will be given next week.

Editorial

June 2010

Seniors: Let’s Leave on a Positive Note

Use Defunct Clubs’ Funds for Improving OHS

Class of 2010

Breanna Sharkey“Getting all dressed up

for prom and dancing till my legs fell off.”

Jon Kangah“The senior trip to

Disney World.”

Alexis Files“Breaking the 4 x 400

meter relay record multiple times in track.”

Stephen Dahar

“The final football game this year when the seniors

walked the field for the last time.”

Class of 2010

Class of 2010

Class of 2010

What is your favorite memory of OHS during the past four years?

3

Buccaneer Bulletin buccaneerbulletin.wordpress.com

As we walk down the hall and our final days begin to wind down, what we will remember about the year? We, the staff of The Buccaneer Bulletin hopes you choose to remember all of the positive things we have encountered here. We have some advice we would like to give to the underclassmen in order to help them make the best of high school.

As graduation is soon approaching, seniors have been busy blowing off homework, skipping class, and relaxing--otherwise known as “senioritis.” But we must remember that after we move on from Oswego High School we will be entering the work force, the military, and college and ultimately will be faced with new challenges. We spend all this time trying to figure out what we will do after college, and these three very different things are much more alike than many think. For starters, we will not be able to lounge around all day and surf Facebook. We will be faced with difficult challenges and hours of work and classes that we must attend. All of these new and exciting places we will be traveling to and the experiences we will have, will have consequences and we must remember this: by blowing our responsibilities off, we will only hurt ourselves in the long run.

So far throughout our lives, our days have been structured and rules have been set out for us. But seniors, next year we will not have this luxury. There will be no sweep if you are late to work, class, or even a particular duty for the military. So this is the time to start taking responsibility for your actions because there soon will be consequences that you will have to deal with. No note from your mother can fix this.

While many seniors will be graduating, the underclassmen will still be here and each of you should take a positive approach about what lies ahead. With the recent dilemma about club cuts, many students are in an uproar. But, we need to realize that not all of the clubs are being cut. We should try to think of it as an opportunity to try new things by joining one or more of the remaining clubs. In the end, you are the ones who can decide to change things, and this could be done by taking a positive approach on this unfortunate situation we are faced with.

As far as underclassmen are concerned, you will be moving up in the chain of command and may even become upperclassmen next year, but it’s crucial that you remember to actually do your work and put effort into it. Don’t just get by. Your educators and parents are trying to help prepare you for the future, so don’t refuse their help and blow off school. If you work hard, you will be rewarded. There are also those dreaded events that are put on by the school, but they actually are fun. Next year, go to the pep rally, athletic contests, and the school dances. When you look back on your high school days, you will want to have good memories from times that you enjoyed.

Seniors, we feel that hard work we have put in the past four years has final paid off. As June 26 quickly approaches, cherish these last couple of days you have left and make them count! Once we are in the real world, we will have no one to hold our hand, so let’s make sure we work hard towards our dreams and become all that we know we can.

“Parting gifts” are those little presents people either give or receive when departing from a situation--whether it’s a gold watch at retirement or a souvenir left behind when someone leaves a situation. We at The Buccaneer Bulletin would like to suggest one or more “parting gifts” from organizations to the school.

It has been well documented that some clubs are being phased out next year due to the budget. Well, some of those clubs have a treasury of funds they have

accumulated over the past few months or, in some cases, years.

So we’re suggesting that these clubs, in a final positive gesture, give something to the

school that others can benefit from. How’s this: we have a nice picnic area behind the new

addition to the cafeteria. It’s got newly planted

grass and a couple shade trees that are sure to

grow. So the picnic area has everything a picnic area needs, except picnic tables. How about one of the defunct clubs purchasing some picnic tables for students in the Class of 2011, ‘12, ‘13 and beyond, a chance to enjoy.

Point/Counterpoint

June 2010Buccaneer Bulletin buccaneerbulletin.wordpress.com

Seniors’ Final Faceoff: How was OHS?

Since we were five years old we have all come

to school. Often it was not by choice, but because we had to. When we

entered high school, most of us were counting down the days, hours, and minutes until we get out

of here. And now, with my time as a Buccaneer dwindling, as I look back, it really wasn’t so bad here.

While this school year may have started with some turmoil, look at all the things that we have here at Oswego High School, compared to other schools. So in September, the school opened with the reveal of a brand new cafeteria complete with booths and flat screen televisions. The food could be much worse. We are not looking at the “slop of the day” like many other school lunch programs serve up.

In January, we come back from Christmas break and we were welcomed with a brand new state-of-the-art science facility.

All budget talks aside, we are pretty well off in Oswego. The majority of the teachers here are willing to help us. This year there was a variety of clubs to choose from at our school. And in the depths of winter, we even have the privilege of getting snow days because we live in the snow capi-tal, Oswego, New York. Other schools don’t get snow days, teachers don’t stay after to help, and they definitely do not have the varied extracurricular activities that we do.

The sports that we have here are something that many high schoolers don’t have either. While Oswego may not always have the best win-loss record, in most sports we have done fairly well. The best part is, that, be-sides certain equipment, we don’t have to pay for the privilege of being a Buccaneer athlete on the team. Before we were in high school, our parents had to fork over the money for us to be a part of a sports team.

On the same track, the music program at our school is something that is envied elsewhere. The bands always come back from competitions with an armful of awards, and this year finished first in the Parade of Champions at James Madison University.

Though many students are not aware, that right here in our school there are multiple state award-winning publications. There is The Buccaneer Bul-letin, which has won first place in overall excellence in New York State, and The Paradox, that also picks up multiple awards at the state level in yearbook judging. There is also WBUC that most of us watch every morn-ing. These communication programs help make OHS what it is, and allows for a positive and informed high school experience for many.

There is also a very successful technology program at our school. Senior Nate Pacheco stated, “Tech classes available here like Principles of Engi-neering and Design Drawing for Production have influenced my decision to study Mechanical Engineering Technology.” Many students, like Pacheco have made college decisions and career choices based on what they have learned here at OHS.

For all the students who complain that there is nothing to do in this town, or in this school, they are simply not taking the advantage of the programs that our school offers. If you are willing to take someone’s advice, it makes your high school experiences much more enjoyable, and these are experi-ences that many of us will take with us for the rest of our lives.

Though I may be as glad as the other Class of 2010 graduates that I am on my way out, and starting a new life beyond OHS, we should all be grateful that we’ve had the experience here that we did.

We were lucky to be Buccaneers.

Oswego High School, I wish I could say

to you that this parting is weigh-ing on me like a heavy gray cloud, ready to explode with rain and depres-sive emotions at any given second. I wish I

could say to you that any farewell written by yours truly would be a positive one. But the fact of the matter is, high school has

certainly not been an overall positive experience for me, and any goodbye to you is going to be one of anticipation and fiendish elation.

I couldn’t be happier, Oswego High School, that I am done. I’m done with your perverse, power-hungry rules. I’m done getting up in front of the entire class to be granted permission to relieve myself at the nearest restroom. A lot of the times, just to hear one of your loyal minions, also known as faculty, say “no, not right now.” Because eighteen-year-old girls who have been figuring out when they have to go to the bathroom their entire lives can’t decide for themselves when it is or is not a good time to urinate. It’s going to be a great moment. I’ll be thinking of you.

Ah – and to take out my cell phone on school grounds! The freedom! When I am a freshman in college, you can bet your tenure that I will not shy away from my technologically advanced lifestyle. Complete with unlimited texting and WiFi, I’ll be my own walking private sector, as opposed to a walking ticket to ISS. It’s such a shame that the school is either too embarrassed of--or too stupefied by--the wondrous uses of cell phones to shun them from the building entirely. Or maybe this isn’t the case at all. I’ve been witnessed to multiple incidents where a cell phone was peeking out, maybe a few centimeters out of a pocket, and it’s been confiscated. I have to wonder what the satisfaction is to be gained from moments such as these. Certainly, it would be easier on both the teacher and the student to acknowledge that the cell phone is away and to ignore it. Perhaps this is more of a game, a power-trip. Is it possible, also, that the basis is the fear of loss of control? Believe me, comrades, I understand that not all of you are responsible enough to have a cell phone with you at all times when you’re in school; that the urge to text your friends may overbear the urge to learn. But does this mean that we should be punished as a whole? We accept No Child Left Behind as a general academic rule, right? If we all need to be understood as individual pupils learning at different rates and levels, then why shouldn’t our trust and responsibility be regarded in the same way? It’ll be nice to be noticed as responsible and capable of handling my social network in a professional setting.

Perhaps most importantly, it will be so beautifully refreshing to learn some-thing other than how to take a test. The number of skills that I was taught in my entire high school career, that I have any reasonable chance of using in my day-to-day life, I could probably be counted on one hand (not including the ability to argue, which is now broken up into many different components and is more of an art form than a skill). I can honestly say that, in the past four years, I probably wasted countless hours of my life sitting in classes learning nothing that I remem-ber, and nothing that I was interested in. But I was here (most of the time), and I put in my (wo)man hours. It’ll be nice to focus on the quality of my time spent at college learning, rather than just being there physically. In all fairness, I cannot say that every single class that I took here was a waste. And I certainly believe that the instructors of those classes know who they are. As far as my senior year goes, however, the classes that mean anything to me are either descendants of Syracuse University or electives.

Oswego High School, it has not been fun. I’ve tried editing this conclusion to create a more diplomatic one, but this is just the truth. You will not be missed. Thanks for giving me a place to hang out with my friends, and thanks for giving me a reason to be ticked off. Graphic illustration By KimBerlyn Bailey

4

Columns

June 2010

5


There is one thing I know for sure, high school is all about meeting

new people. Sometimes the two people, who entered their freshman year being best friends, don’t even look or talk to each other during their senior year. That’s too bad.

These past four years have come and gone and I have seen many friendships form and just as many fall apart. Some have fallen apart due to a fight or just due to the fact that those people have matured and moved on. Some are formed due to the same interests, such as being in the same class, or even extracurricular activities such as sports and clubs.

Thanks to Oswego High School’s Drama Club, I have made many new friends. Some are in my grade, some I hardly talked to before being cast in a play with them, and some others who are younger than me, whom I would have never even had the chance to become friends with. This club has helped me connect and become friends with many different people, and no matter where I go in the future, I will always remember them and consider them to be my friends.

Friendships, to me, are some of the many things that helped me get through high school. Whether it was copying the homework that I had neglected the night before (don’t deny it, you’ve done this before too) or needing to vent about the group of kids that always stand in front of my locker who were rude and refused to move, I always knew that I had a shoulder to lean on when it came to my friends. I’m sure many of you who are reading this agree that whenever you were having a rough time, you were able to talk to your friends about it and they would make everything a little better. If this isn’t the case, that’s too bad. I know I wouldn’t be able

to get through one day of high school without a friend to talk to.

But aside from seeing many friendships blossom, sadly, I have seen even the strongest friendships fall apart. Friendships which have been going strong for many years were destroyed because of one person’s actions. I see people who used to be close friends walk past each other in the hallway and not even look at each other, let alone utter a word to one another. It’s sad, but it’s life. People grow up and grow apart, that’s just the way life works. Does it suck? Oh, believe me, I can say from personal experience that it does suck. But, you have to move on and make new friends.

Sophomore year, I got into a horrible fight with my best friend, who had been my best friend since first grade, and we didn’t talk for at least six months afterwards. Eventually, we started talking to each other and became friends again, but it was never the same. I was to blame for this, because I let one little rumor ruin a perfectly good friendship and I have regretted it ever since. But, since then, I have become closer to a lot of people and so has she, and we’re both happy. Everything happens for a reason, some say, and maybe it was just wasn’t meant to be.

Some people may disagree, but I believe that even though some high school friendships only last for four years, it is actually possible for others to last much, much longer. That is, if you work hard enough. I know that I am going to do my best to keep in touch with all of my friends after I leave OHS. It’s going to be tough, sure, but at least I’ll know that I’m trying to keep these friendships that mean so much to me going strong.

As you read this, think about all of the friendships you have gained and lost during your time at OHS. Who knows? Maybe next year you will be able to reconnect with some of your old friends, or branch out away from your group of friends and meet new people. You never know, you could meet your new best friend.

Friendships, Like High School, Have Come and Gone

As graduation is quickly approaching, I have

started to realize that there is only a short time left here at OHS and I have started to reflect on all of the good and the bad times. I can honestly say that after graduation I will have some bittersweet emotions. After all, OHS has been my home for last four years and next year I will have to move on and find new teachers to annoy. I know I will immensely miss the numerous periods I have spent in room B-2, eating my lunch, illegally of course. And then there is the fact that I will have

no one to walk me to class in college, sadly I will not have Eli to waltz me to class while he informs me of the day’s events. How will I survive?

Senior year is a year filled with fun and memories to last forever. Throughout the past four years I honestly have been more concerned with my dance classes than going to actual school classes. While I don’t mind coming to school, dance has always been the biggest part of my life. The Buccaneer Bulletin was the most important thing to me in school. The only class I really looked forward to going to is journalism, and not because of the “great” life lessons Mr. McCrobie gives us.

I am sad to leave OHS, but I won’t be going very far. Next year I will be going to Oswego State to become a teacher. Isn’t that ironic considering how much I loved waking up to come here everyday?

Caitlin Sawyer

Catie Furletti

Sign up to volunteer for:Children’s Activities, Trolley

HostsInformation Providers,

Memorabilia Seller, Park Set Up/Take Down

And much more!

HARBORFEST 2010July 22-25

VolunteersNeeded

Benefits of volunteering: Learning new skills•

Meeting new people,•

Building a stronger •

resumeIt’s FUN!•

Features

June 2010

6


Mr. William Palange has been teaching at Oswego High School for 24½ years as the wind ensemble, concert band, and marching band director. Palange had planned on teaching at OHS until 2011, but decided now would be a good time to retire and to open the position up for someone new to take over who can stay for a long time and continue to do great things with the band.

Palange plays with groups around New York such as the Central New York Jazz Orchestra, the Mario DeSantis Band and Orchestra, and a Dixieland band called the Bear Cat Jazz Band, to name a few. Palange’s favorite instrument is the trombone. He claims he “stinks at most everything else.”

Though Palange is surely looking forward to retirement in some ways, he openly expresses his pride in the OHS music program. “What a great honor it has been to be a part of this music program. It’s known all over the country and has a very bright future.”

Mrs. Joyce Gleason has been a part of the Oswego High School staff for 23½ years now. She plans to retire this year from her job as Oswego High School’s reliable attendance secretary. She looks forward to spending more time with her grandson in Staten Island, and catering to some of her hobbies like photography and playing bingo. She also enjoys watching her children and grandchildren play sports.

Gleason will continue to reside in Oswego, but plans to migrate somewhere warmer during the winter months.

Gleason says “I will miss the people--the students and the staff. Not necessarily the job, but the other things.”

“Once, we created sparks trying to break open a huge metamorphic rock and made a haze of smoke on the ceiling. One time I had to perform the Heimlich maneuver on a girl that was choking on her pen top. They’ll never let me live that down.”

Mrs. Cynthia Fatiga fondly looks back on her memories here at OHS the past 24 years as she prepares to retire this summer. She has been an earth science teacher ever since she started. Current colleagues Mr. Jason Primrose and Mr. Jason Guild were student teachers under Fatiga’s direction while they were undergraduate college students.

She is excited to sit down over the summer and plan the places she wants to travel throughout her retirement. “Sicily is one place I will definitely go back to,” she says.

Fatiga states she will miss her colleagues and the students the most out of anything. “It went by too fast. It’s a little bittersweet.”

Retirees Leaving with Mixed Emotions

Photo BY Mackenzie oatMan



Palange: Bandleader proud of his accomplishments

Fatiga: So many memories of colleagues and students

Gleason: “I’ll miss the people of Oswego High.”

Editor’s note: There is pending NYS retirement legislation which may create more OHS retirements in July.

Mrs. Cynthia Fatiga

Mr. William Palange

Mrs. Joyce Gleason

Features


Ms. Devendorf,

I will never forget the first day of English 11 Honors my junior year. It was second period, so I hadn’t had the chance to get the feel of my schedule yet, but I knew I was stressed. Junior year is, in theory, the most important year of high school, academically.

You began class the traditional way. Hi, I’m me, you’re you, this is what is expected, yadda yadda. And then something strange happened. It was like… an invisible barricade gave in, and you were no longer just a stone-cold, generically dead teacher. You were suddenly a real person, a real woman. You said to us, “Now, I know that you are all honors students. But you’re still students. And God love ya, you’re still kids.” I wrote that down on the inside of my English note-book, and I still have it. It was a simple gesture, but it set the mood for a year of enlightenment; for pure, useful thinking.

Our second period class was...to put it politely…diverse in thought and opin-ions. This allowed for enriching debate when we read and studied Chris McCand-less in Into the Wild. I appreciated those days more than you know. I never felt like we were discussing anything just to hear ourselves talk. You showed us that story, pointed us in that direction, and I know that we all grew from this unit.

Easily the most important moment of my entire relationship with you thus far came the day that a teacher (who will remain nameless) really screwed me over, once again. I came into your classroom as the dismissal bell was ringing, I was trying (and failing) to pretend I wasn’t crying. You weren’t fooled. As all the students were rushing out the door, you said, “Now I’m a mother… I know when something is wrong…what happened..?” and gave me a big hug (don’t arrest her, school board, it was innocent). I spent the rest of third period just crying my eyes out and telling you all about the whole deplorable incident.

Along with those two personal matters, there is also the topic of SaaF (Stu-dent Animal Awareness Front). As I consider the new budget that has been passed, I am grateful anew for your undying support of Jess and me. I see all these clubs that aren’t going to exist anymore, and I think of the reasons behind that. But you know what? SaaF was never accepted nor rejected by The Board. You were never given an extra bonus in your paycheck for all the time spent after school with us. I would be surprised if your fellow colleagues even lent a pat on the back for your efforts. Know that we are a group of students who are so thank-ful for all that you’ve done. All it took was two girls with a common concern talking with you, and you respected us enough as adults to allow us to use your room and your time to hold our meetings.

Ms. Devendorf, the fact of the matter is, this high school is so incredibly lucky to have you in it. Your honest care for the students and your respect for us as people with independent thoughts is a quality that this school is lacking. With your passion and drive, you make being a successful, smart, independent adult woman something to aspire to. Thank you so much for showing me that there are trustworthy, communicative, and noble adults still left in our school district. And thank you for getting me through these last two years.

Most sincerely, Mary Losurdo

Dear Junior Class,

A warp of memories from your first day of kindergarten, to climbing across the monkey bars, to your very first kiss all flood your brain as you take your step through the doors of Os-wego High School for you very last first day of school. Some of you will be elated knowing there’s only one more year left until you can be free of the tacky planners, duct taped lines in the hallway, and the pity drama that surrounds OHS. Others will see it as a letdown, knowing that one year from now you’re only going to be left with a fancy piece of paper and told to do something with your life, and nothing’s free anymore.

No matter what side you’re looking at the issue from, the bottom line is, it’s your senior year. If I could give you any advice, it’s these few things.

* Firstly, put aside the drama and mistakes from the past because when you walk out of this place a year from now for the last time, the reality of it is, you won’t be seeing 90% of these people ever again. Drop the grudges and get to know those you hesitated to talk to in the past. Make it your mission to leave your mark and a memorable and lasting impression on every face you see.

* Secondly, it’s senior year, NOT slacker year. Just like any other year in high school, you get grades, and they do count. A doctor’s not going to write you a note for “senioritis,” so you might as well stick it out. No one wants to be “that guy” and struggle for dear life fourth quarter in order to graduate with their childhood friends and keep their spot at their college the following year. End your academ-ics on a good note, knowing that you tried you best on the last stride to the finish line.

* Lastly, and most importantly, make senior year something you will hold close to your heart forever. You get one shot to do it right. Take advantage of this time in life where we’re allowed the most freedom, with the least responsibility. Make it buzzworthy, when you’re 40 and looking back on your golden years with your friends, and seeing how much fun you had. Take the risks you feared taking, and put yourself on the line. Live easy, party hard, and have the time of your life.

Sincerely, Vanessa Sheffield

Graduating Seniors Give Last Words7

Buccaneer Bulletin: What does the title valedictorian mean to you?

Lindsay Johnson: It’s not so much the title that’s important. I see it as a recognition for working hard for four years.

BB: Have you been working toward valedictorian your whole high school career or did it just happen?

LJ: It just kind of happened. At the end of sophomore year, I found out that I was ranked number one and then it just became a goal to stay number one. It’s just kind of kept me motivated, this year especially. It was a little bit of a “senioritis medicine.”

BB: If you had to name one teacher who has influenced you the most, who would it be?

LJ: Mrs. Patricia Runeari. Because her class (honors global) was the first class that was hard for me.

BB: What is your favorite high school memory?

LJ: Prom and stuff like that were fun. But I don’t really have one favorite memory, I have a bunch of them-- senior trip, Prom . . . .

BB: Besides yourself, who do you think played a part in you becoming valedictorian?

LJ: My parents. They thought it would be kind of cool if I could be valedictorian, so that kind of pushed me a little bit. And then, it became kind of a challenge to stay there.

BB: If you could change one thing about OHS what would it be?

LJ: Ummm… I feel like I could give answers that would get me in trouble. Sometimes I feel like things that go on in this school aren’t thought out very well. Like policies are made that really don’t make sense, in many cases polices don‘t seem like they were in the best interest of the student.

BB: What sports / activities did you partake in high school?

LJ: I swim and I play basketball.

BB: Are you going to continue to practice them in college?

LJ: I might play intramurals, but nothing for the school.

BB: Where are you going to college?

LJ: R.I.T. (Rochester Institute of Technology)

BB: Was this school your first choice?

LJ: I was extremely indecisive, so I didn’t really have a first choice. I liked Northeastern for a while. R.I.T., R.P.I., and Binghamton. I’m happy with my decision, I just didn’t necessary think I’d make it.

BB: What made you decide to go to R.I.T.?

LJ: It had a program that was really good for what I wanted and it has co-ops, so it would help me decide if I wanted to work in my chosen field or go somewhere else.

BB: Have you decided on a major?

LJ: Industrial Engineering. Then I’m probably going to go to law school. Patent law, technical law, stuff like that. If I like my co-ops at R.I.T, then I may not got to law school because if I like working in the field, then there’s really no need for me to pay more money to go to school.

BB: What are you most excited about for college? Any worries?

LJ: Just something different, because things around here kind of stay the same day after day. So it would be nice to be in a different environment and meet new people. I think there is always worries, no glaring worries. I’m kind of worried about my roommate though, some sketchy girls go to R.I.T., I’m going to end up with some shot-putter named Olga.

BB: What is an interesting/ weird fact about yourself that many people don’t know?

LJ: Well, I don’t keep a lot of things to myself. There’s not really much about me that people would not be able to figure out. I still sleep with my baby blankies; is that weird?

BB: Are you going to take your baby blankets to college?

LJ: Of course I am. What kind of question is that?

BB: Do you have a role model?

LJ: My sister (Liz). She’s made a huge difference in the choices I’ve made and the things I do. She’s fifteen years older than me, so she has kind of always been a parent when I needed her but at the same time she’s not my parent. She’s just always been there, she is a huge part of my life.

BB: Is your sister your only sibling?

LJ: No I have a brother (Greg), but he lives kind of far away so I don’t get to see him that much. He’s seventeen years older than I am.

BB: If you could have any super power what would it be?

LJ: Mind reading. Although, I really want to fly, so both. I’ve always wanted to fly I was one of those little kids who tried to fly. It never worked out for me.

BB: When you were little, did you know what you wanted to be when you grew up?

LJ: No I went through phases. At one point I wanted to write children’s books, because that was when I wanted to draw and write at the same time, so I figured that was the perfect plan. Of course every little kid wants to be a doctor at some point, I think. Then I wanted to be on Law and Order. That’s still a realistic goal actually, and Saturday Night Live, that was a couple years ago. It could happen. Those are just some of the big hits.

BB: What is your dream job?LJ: Working at Disney.

BB: What would you do there?LJ: Anything they’ll let me do.

BB: If you could have dinner with any three people, dead or alive who would they be?

LJ: Michael Phelps. I feel like I should throw in some dead people. Put Sarah Hill, just because I told her I’d say her. Never mind, cross out Sarah Hill. I knew this question was coming I should have prepared for it. Pocahontas! Put Pocahontas on there. Napoleon, ah no not Napoleon, cross him off. If they can be fictional, then Jack Bauer, from 24. Seriously, that man can do everything.

BB: What are some of your favorite T.V. shows and/or movies?

LJ: Gilmore Girls, That 70s Show, 24, Law & Order, Full House; Ferris Bueller, Mean Girls, Christmas Vacation, Titanic and The Notebook.

Walking the Plank

June 2010

8


Congratulations Valedictorian, Lindsay Johnson

Student-athlete, valedictorian Lindsay JohnsonPhoto By Monék Cullen

Walking the Plank

June 2010

9


Buccaneer Bulletin: Who was your all time favorite teacher at OHS?

Sarah Skinner: Mrs. Melissa Martin. I go to her room a lot and I know she’s always there for me when I need help.

BB: What’s your favorite school subject?SS: It depends, but usually it’s math, but not

including the AP test. BB: What was the favorite book that you

read in high school?SS: I really liked The Great Gatsby and

Fahrenheit 451. BB: What will you miss most about OHS?SS: There are some of the teachers I will miss

and the people I grew up with, but I’m excited to start in a new place.

BB: So Sarah, salutatorian, second in your class. What gave you the drive to succeed?

SS: I’ve always pushed myself to work hard for things and I’ve been working hard for so long and I was so close, but at least now it’s starting to pay off.

BB: If you could have dinner with three

people (dead or alive) who would they be? Why?SS: Natalie Portman (I loved her in Garden

State), Dan Brown, and Claude Monet. BB: Where are you going to college?SS: University of Rochester. BB: What’s your major?SS: Chemistry (Pre-med) with a minor in art. BB: Where do you see yourself in 10 years?SS: I’ll be finished with medical school and

hopefully starting my residency to become an orthopedic surgeon or oncologist.

BB: Was University of Rochester your first

choice?SS: No, not originally, but then I visited and

instantly loved it and knew I belonged there.

BB: What were your top four schools?SS: I only applied to two (University of

Rochester and Stonehill), but somehow I got accepted to Geneseo and Hartwick.

BB: What are you looking forward to

most about college?SS: Being more independent and being

able to choose my own classes. BB: What do you do in your spare time

when you’re not studying?SS: I play lacrosse, soccer, read, and work

on my art. BB: Will you play a sport in college?SS: Yes I’m playing lacrosse. I’m going to

be a Lady Yellow Jacket. BB: Do you have a quote you live your

life by?SS: I don’t necessarily have a quote, but I

always try to give 110 percent or I feel like I am failing.

BB: Do you feel your academic success

comes easy or do you have to work hard for it?

SS: Sometimes it comes easy, but I definitely work hard for all that I have accomplished.

BB: What was your dream job as a

child?SS: My mom used to tell me that I wanted

to be a cashier at a grocery store! BB: Do you have any advice for OHS

students?SS: Always challenge yourself and put in the

most effort, because it feels so much better when you succeed.

BB: Are there any classes you wish you had

taken?SS: Computer graphics and anatomy. BB: Favorite memory?SS: Last year during lacrosse we made it to

sectionals and it was the first time in school history, so it was cool to be a part of something that we made happen.

BB: Blue or black ink?SS: Black--always. BB: Aside from yourself, who do you think

has played the biggest role in your success?

SS: My parents. They never forced me, but always encouraged me to be successful, along with some of my teachers I’ve had over the past four years.

BB: Would you rather end up with a high-

paying job that you dreaded or one with a low salary that you look forward to everyday?

SS: A low-paying one that I actually looked forward too. Money’s great, but not if it doesn’t make me happy.

BB: What will be your first thought as you

cross the stage?SS: I will be shocked! I’m finally graduating

and it’s gone by so fast. BB: What was your overall high school

average?SS: Unweighted, 97.

“Walking the Plank” is a regular feature of The Buccaneer Bulletin. For this issue, Caitlin Sawyer sat down with Sarah Skinner, the class of 2010 Salutatorian.

Sarah Skinner is proud of her accomplishments in the classroom, on the athletic field, and in her extracurricular pursuits. Her varied interests made her an intriguing interview for Walking the Plank.

Walking the plank was written by Kaitlyn Scanlon and Caitlin Sawyer. If you know a student or staff member who you would like to see walk the plank, contact Mr. Mike McCrobie at [email protected]

Meet Class of ‘10 Salutatorian Sarah Skinner

Photo By Monék Cullen

Photo by Monék Cullen

10


In StateAlbany College of

PharmacyDan Montagnola

Nick Sterio

Alfred State CollegeDan Cirino

Stephen Dahar Joe Hart

Ryan Jock

Alfred UniversityTroy NortonEliza Parker

Binghamton UniversityGriffin MervineDavid Morgia

Bryant & Stratton CollegeFranshisca CedilloChristine Mansfield

Chelsea Searor

Buffalo State CollegeKathleen AndersonCourtney Collins

Tessa OpetNicole PaulhardtAngela Politzi

Dan Tyo

Cayuga Community CollegeThomas Bartholomew

Josh BehrJessica Bezio

Makenzy BradfordSamuel Carver

Kaitlin CasalettaLoni Clemons

Kelsey CloonanBrandon Corwin

Randi CoulterTiffani Coulter

Brittany DelahuntGabrielle Doten

Samantha Duvall Nikki Fantom

Chelsea GroweTracey GuzmanTravis HadleyLiz Henderson

Marian HillCarolyn HudsonMicheal Johnson

Phi LeEricka Lenahan

Kelly MaherKristy Mayer

Michelle MoonMichael Mosley

CCC, continuedJosh Nearbin

Nick ParkhurstAlicia PattersonSteven Pierce

Adrienne RichardsMatt SalvadorJessica Slight

Nic SouvaAubrie SpanfelnerAnthony TodaroKate Van Buren

Cazenovia CollegeAlex Broadwell

Clarkson UniversityBrian WalczakEddy Wallace

Continental School of BeautyMaria LazzaroGina Pelkey

Cornell UniversityAmanda D’Amico

D’Youville CollegeKathryn Lombardo

Elmira CollegeLiz Nielsen

Fashion Institute of Technology

Kimberlyn Bailey

Finger Lakes Community College

Bridgette AuyerRachael DemlingShane Duplessis

Emily MearsRichard Wallace

Fulton-Montgomery Community College

Lauren Nearbin

Herkimer County Community College

Chris CahillLauren CorradinoAntonio DarlingMike Hennessy

Jon KangahAnthony LevineDrew PascuzziShelby RotachKylie Wyman

Hofstra UniversityAllison CarmodyCaitlin Sawyer

Houghton CollegeVictoria Wild

Ithaca CollegeBrennan BantaShane BartumJeremy Gosek

Jordan ManganoRick Uribe

ITT Technical InstituteJonathan Blackmar

Keuka CollegeLaura Lawrence

Le Moyne CollegeJessica Allen

Karyssa CarsonRichard Mandanas

Liza Roman

Mohawk Valley Community College

Gerritt CrisafulliKassie McHenry

Monroe Community CollegeTrisha BurdickRobert Lynch

Chelsea Oughterson

Nazareth CollegeAmber Earl

Niagara UniversityDylan Kazyaka

Onondaga Community CollegeMatt BameBob Beach

Alex BenignoKaitlin BracyZach Bragg

Anthony CanaleMatt CastigliaJose Clavell

Kelcey ComerfordCeara Donohue

John FayLiz Feeney

Matt GoeweyEmily HoytCorey King

Ashley KuczawaKristy LiccardiZach McQuaidThomas Mullen

Shandon O’ConnorIsmael PerezTyler Perez

Jessica PickreignBrittany RossBrian Semione

OCC, continuedBreanna SharkeyElliott Singleton

Jordan SmithJulio ValenzuelaDamian WilliamsBethanie Wright

Paul Smith’s CollegeJeffrey Schmidt

Kurtis Stack

Pratt MWPMadison Palmer

Rensselaer Polytechnic InstituteWesley Ihlow

Roberts Wesleyan CollegeMorgan Lawrence

Rochester Institute of Technology Jared Cooper

Jordan DarlingJillian Doty

Stephen HoeferLindsay JohnsonAlex KaplewiczNate Pacheco

Scott QuenvilleJames ReynoldsKatelyn Stevens

St. Bonaventure UniversityTaylor Phillips

St. John Fisher CollegeJosh Baer

Mackenzie ColemanMeghan KellySarah Miller

St. John’s UniversityKhristian Fischer

St. Lawrence UniversityKatie Abramski

Stony Brook UniversityRachel Clark

Kathryn MichaudEli Tyler

Suffolk Community CollegeKimberli Burns

SUNY BrockportMarissa CanaleMike CarrollAlexis Files

Rachel HealyRyan RamseyEric Witmer

SUNY CantonNikita Blackburn

Chris HanleyCrystal HowseTaylor Murphy

Candace Supernavage

SUNY CortlandJacob Byron

Kristin KnightAlissa Raymond

Kyle RossiTom RuggioLeah Smith

SUNY DelhiMegan Howard

SUNY FredoniaJohn ChattertonAnnie Taverni

John Tyrie

SUNY GeneseoLaura O’Brien

SUNY Institute of TechnologyDylan Hryckewicz

SUNY MorrisvilleEric Degroff

Donald DelPriore

SUNY OneontaSam ConzoneJames Gehan

Danielle PosillipoLindsay RoseKevin Wiltsie

SUNY OswegoKarly BabcockBobby Canale

Adam ClawsonJamie Cliff

Dominique ConzoneShane Demo

Brandon DeSantisMaggie Ellis

Catherine FurlettiBethany JungMiguel Lara

Morgan LavnerIveliz Lopez

Mary LosurdoBobby Natoli

John OleyourrykJulianna Pauldine

Kali PurtAlex Richards

Emily RichmondKevina Schleicher

Chelsea SerenoLisa Servidio

They’re Off--Oswego High School Seniors Bid Farewell; Ready to Accept New Challenges

June 2010

11

buccaneerbulletin.wordpress.com

SUNY CantonNikita Blackburn

Chris HanleyCrystal HowseTaylor Murphy

Candace Supernavage

SUNY CortlandJacob Byron

Kristin KnightAlissa Raymond

Kyle RossiTom RuggioLeah Smith

SUNY DelhiMegan Howard

SUNY FredoniaJohn ChattertonAnnie Taverni

John Tyrie

SUNY GeneseoLaura O’Brien

SUNY Institute of TechnologyDylan Hryckewicz

SUNY MorrisvilleEric Degroff

Donald DelPriore

SUNY OneontaSam ConzoneJames Gehan

Danielle PosillipoLindsay RoseKevin Wiltsie

SUNY OswegoKarly BabcockBobby Canale

Adam ClawsonJamie Cliff

Dominique ConzoneShane Demo

Brandon DeSantisMaggie Ellis

Catherine FurlettiBethany JungMiguel Lara

Morgan LavnerIveliz Lopez

Mary LosurdoBobby Natoli

John OleyourrykJulianna Pauldine

Kali PurtAlex Richards

Emily RichmondKevina Schleicher

Chelsea SerenoLisa Servidio

SUNY Oswego, continuedNicole Sivers

Andrea SmiedyBrittany SperinoJennifer Strother

Ian Van WertLibby VickeryChelcee Ward

Nathan Westcott

SUNY PlattsburghBrooke Reifinger

SUNY PotsdamChandler Caroccio

Matt DonovanNatalie EmmonsRachel Gower

Mackenzie Stone-Sweeting

SUNY PurchaseAshley Fidler

Syracuse UniversityLaura MiceliTyler Spicer

Tompkins-Cortland Community College

Emily DiFabio Kevin Suchnicki

University at AlbanyMichele CanaleMitch Maniccia

Vanessa Sheffield

University at Buffalo Nizar Al-Salameh

John Gorman

University of RochesterMichael BrownSarah Skinner

Wells CollegeMacaulay Porter

Out of StateArizona State University

Corey Schuffenecker

Art Institute of PittsburghTarquin Johnson

Ateneo de Manila University Angelica Alejandro

Auburn UniversityMason Rabalais

Collins CollegeAndrew Hibbert

DC ArtsKJ Flanders

Evangel University Aryelle Caruso

Ferrum CollegeRyan Higgins

George Washington University

Rachel Baxter

Grossmont Community College

Casey Gibson

High Point UniversityAlex Bush

Leah FolgheraitDustin Kavanaugh

Houston Community CollegeZach Sizemore

Lincoln College of New England

Maggie HinesSamantha Maitland

Loyola University of New Orleans

Tom Mather

Lynchburg CollegeAndrew Bush

Mansfield UniversityAmber Scruton

Monmouth UniversityHaleigh Daino

North Carolina Central University

Dana Lofthouse

Northeastern UniversitySarah Hill

Libby Morley

Ohio State UniversityKristen Bartholomew

Ohio Technical CollegePhil MacDougall

Spring Arbor UniversityChelsea JohnsonRudy Rodriguez

Stevens Institute of Technology

Sam Czarnecki

University of ConnecticutMaia Czarnecki

University of GuamJessica Sheffield

University of KansasPatrick Holland

University of Northwestern Ohio

Cole Smith

MilitaryAir Force

Christian CabanligMatthew Garcia

Derek Natoli

ArmySara Carroll

Nick ChrismanKristin Liberty

MarinesTommy KellyNick Nevala

NavyBrandin FaulNick Frasier

WorkforceCarpenters Union

Jonathan Carson

Pipefitters UnionStephen King

Professional PhotographyDan Rounds

OtherCassie Chappell

Stephanie Crisafulli Andrew Crisafulli

Brianna DistinJessica Elmer

Steven GoodrowSamantha Gordon

Jackilyn HartBradley HilbornBrandon HilbornJoanne Latella

Joel Meeks

Workforce, continuedKeith NuttingAdam PeronneIslam Salem

Matt SchladebeckDerek SchuteScott Smith

Kyle StauringZach ThompsonPatrick Webster

MiscellaneousExchange Student

Xiaohan Li

Junior ‘A’ HockeyGregory Unger

Trade SchoolJohnathon Woodward

UndecidedWill Abert

Conner AkleyShawn AndersonAlexis Boardway

Michael BruceMorgan CookRocky CrucittiTaylor Davis

Shayne DunsmoreJeff Fellows

Jim FergusonMandy ForbesKyle GuinupMatt HowardJosh Johnston

Carl JonesZane Leo

Hilary MacDonaldAlison McCreary

Trista PitcherAnthony SamsonTyler ThompsonAlison Whiteside

Molly Wise

Graduation will be held on June 26 at 10 am in

the Campus Center at SUNY Oswego.

They’re Off--Oswego High School Seniors Bid Farewell; Ready to Accept New Challenges

Editor’s Note: Senior information and page design by Rachel Clark.

Features


Dear Oswego High School’s Drama Club and Deb Swerman,

I’ve got to say, being a part of the Drama Department has helped me get through high school, and now that I’m graduating, I want to thank all of you for making my high school experience special.

To Steve Braun, T.J. Bandla and the rest of the OHS Tech Crew: I want to thank you for everything that you do. Making sets, getting props and fixing lights and sound are not easy, and most people don’t realize that. Some people don’t understand the hard work you all put into everything you do. You are the reason why Oswego High School’s plays, musicals, and any other event that is held in the Faust Theatre are amazing. If there wasn’t a tech crew, I don’t even want to know where our Drama Department would be. I want to acknowledge all of the hard work that you have done, because you definitely deserve the credit. And, Steve, thank you for awarding me with Drama Club’s scholarship. Hearing you say that you and Deb couldn’t think of anyone other than me when considering people for it made me cry, I can’t even express how grateful I am.

To my Castmates and fellow Drama Club Members: You made my last play so much fun and we did a fantastic job both nights we performed. You don’t even know how proud I am of us. Selling out opening night and having to add MORE rows to fit all members of the audience? Wow. It was incredible. Out of all of the plays I have been in over these past three years, “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” was definitely my favorite. Not just because I liked the play, but because I had the chance to become friends with all of you. When I look back on our rehearsals, I will always remember our trips to Fajita Grill (or McDonald’s) and just hanging out and having a great time before we had to go on stage and actually do work. You guys are great actors and actresses, and hopefully you will continue to act. To my very close friends in Drama Club: I consider you not only my friends, but my family. I will never forget you. I love you guys.

To Deb Swerman, my director: Deb, I have been in many plays that you’ve directed and I can honestly say that being in those plays has made my high school experience more than bearable. You are a great director and such a nice person. It was a pleasure to work with you. I remember the first play I tried out for; The Mousetrap, by Agatha Christie. When I walked into the theatre and saw how you acted, I have to admit that I was a bit intimidated. You have such an outgoing personality and I had no idea how to deal with that back then. But as I look back on that, I just laugh and say “Yep, that’s just Deb,” because I have grown to know you and I know how crazy you are. That play seemed like it was forever ago, but in reality, it was only three years. In those three years, I have changed so much and I have you to thank. I was so scared and shy back then, but you helped me break out of my shell and be loud and crazy. Even though I wasn’t able to actually be in that play, for various reasons, I was so happy to be part of it, and that made me want to come back again. When you told me that you and your family were moving this summer, I was upset because I envisioned myself coming back from college next fall and visit-ing you while you directed the Drama Club’s next production. But, I guess I’ll just have to come to Indiana and visit you. You have helped me out through some hard times and you’ve always been so understanding, I am so grateful for that. No matter what I do in the future, I will always remember every single play that I have done which you have directed and I will always remember you. Thank you for everything, Deb. I will always appreciate everything you have done for me, and I really mean that. You have made acting and being part of a production more fun than I ever expected it was going to be. I want to wish you good luck at your new job, and I hope that you don’t forget about me, because I won’t ever forget about you.

12

As I’m casually making my way through the halls of Oswego High School to my seventh period class, I can’t help but feel a hint of contentment. The day is finally winding down and for the next 43 minutes, my Journalism class would be my sanctuary.

The second bell rings as I step into the classroom. To my right, I glance over at our three editors- Caitlin Sawyer, Catie Furletti, and Rachel Clark. None of them take notice to my entrance as they’re all typing vigorously on their keyboards. Every so often, they munch quietly on their snacks in between contemplating what to type next. I admire their fierce determination, and proceed to my seat.

I then scoot past two Buc Bulletin veterans- Emily DeFabio and Mary Losurdo. Instantly, my mind flashes to the sometimes- heated critique sessions and I wonder how two such opinionated people managed to work together in harmony all year long, giving our beloved school newspaper a commendable taste of teen angst.

Slumping into my seat, I turn to my right and exchange smiles with three of the sweetest girls I know- Tina Buckingham, Shaughnessy Darrow, and Kylie Wyman. With these three, I’m constantly reminding myself of how lucky I am to have them in class, as I vent more frequently than necessary and depend solely on their positive feedback.

I spin around in my chair once I hear Mr. McCrobie starting to give us his daily 5 minute pep-talk on what we should be accomplishing before deadline. Suddenly, his voice enters my ears as a dull drone, and something catches my eye on the other side of the room. My eyes dart to the computers of our two photographers- Mackenzie Oatman and MaryKate Torbitt. They’re viewing the pictures they recently shot for the paper. Realizing how impressive the shots are, I find myself envious of their photography skills and slowly twist my chair back around to do some work of my own.

A glowing screen stares anxiously at me as I fumble through my notes and rough drafts. Unorganized and in a handwriting almost entirely illegible to anyone except me, my first copy is finished and begging to be typed up. I begin to type, only to backspace every letter on the screen, extremely self-conscious that everyone around me will read my writing and form the same habit as Dacota Kazyaka. Dacota sits to my left, completely consumed

High School Experience is Always Filled with Drama

By Faith WhitelyEntertainment Editor

A Day in the Life of Journalism Class

continued on page 18

Features

June 2010

13


Seniors, most of you are getting ready for college, and worrying about the expenses you will have. Have any of you sat down and asked yourself how much have you spent on your actual high school senior year? College is very expensive when you’re attending, but the prep to get there isn’t a walk in the park either.

The first thing most seniors think about is plan-ning for college. Well, the first step would be taking the SATs. The cost to take the SAT is $45. Most people who are serious about going to college take the SATs two or three times to get the best scores they possibly can. The cost of taking the SATs three times is $135. Another choice you have is to take the ACT. The cost of the ACT (without writing) is $32. The cost of the ACT (with writing) is $47. Let’s say you took the test with writing three times, you would have to pay $141. Keep that cost in mind while you add up all of the other things you buy.

Now, let’s consider the cost of going to visit col-leges. You have to pay for the gas to get there and the food you eat. If you estimate that gas costs are around three dollars per gallon, and you’re driving approximately fifty miles in a standard size car that holds about 18 gallons, you would pay $54 to fill the gas tank. If you stop and eat fast food, the cost for you and one parent would be around $20. The rest of the visit is free, so that would be the end of your costs for that day. However, if you plan more than one college visit you need to multiply that number by the number of visits. For out-of-state visits you’ll need to add in multiple meals, more tanks of gas, and probably some hotel expenses.

Everyone knows applying to college isn’t free. The price of the SUNY school application is $40 per school. If you wanted to apply to 3 or 4 schools, you would have to pay $160 to see if you even have a chance of getting in. Private schools are a different story, the prices of a private school range from free to $90. While the price for this is high, most students would agree that we really don’t have choices. If you want to go to college, then you

pay the fee. Besides getting ready for college we, as seniors, have

many other expenses. The first senior activity is getting your senior portrait taken. If you went through the school for your senior pictures you went to Prestige Images. First, you have to pay the fee for the session, and then pay for

the pictures you want to order separately. One Hundred Days is the first major senior day at

OHS. Students have to pay to get a nice new outfit to wear to this event. The average outfit cost is probably about $30. If you plan on attending senior night, the cost is $5. This is a small amount, however every little bit counts. The annual trip to Sea Breeze costs $10. This is not a bad price for a day of fun, but that’s only if you don’t buy anything extra while on the trip. Senior dinner dance is the last activity before we graduate. If you’re going alone

the cost is $10. If you choose to bring a date from a dif-ferent school, you have to pay $20 for their ticket. The cost of the dance is expensive, but buying the outfit to go to the dance can get costly. Students choose dresses that range in cost anywhere from $30-150. If girls so choose, hair appointments come into play, as well as jewelry,

and shoes. Making yourself look good for this dance doesn’t come cheaply. The senior trip to Florida this year cost $900 to attend. This is a big chunk of change not including food. The cost of food had to be substantially more, and students needed spending money. Souvenirs in amusement parks are not cheap; actually anything at an amusement park isn’t cheap. Obviously these activities are what make senior year what it is, but sometimes things aren’t so much fun when you have to pay a fortune to get there.

Graduation parties are the hurdle step before you venture out into the real world. Invitations are the first step to preparing your party. You can get the invites made, or you can go to Wal-Mart for generic invitations. Either way, the invitations are not free. Next, you need to plan on what you will be feeding your party guests. Food isn’t cheap, and when you add plates and silverware prices add up. Some people have backyards to host their parties in, but oth-ers have to seek a venue to hold their party. Many parents have said that parties can cost anywhere from $500 to $1,500. Graduation

is a fun time for everyone, but it can also be stressful when the prices climb.

Seniors, this article was not meant to stress any-one out because we’re all 9/10 of the way through the process. Just to clarify, that we worry so much about college, but never think about the year before. Even the happiest day of our lives so far comes with a price tag, the $20 graduation cap and gown.

I guess this just goes to say, nothing in life is free, especially senior year.

Expensive Senior Year Breaks the BankBy Catie FurlettiManaging Editor

Graphic By Emily DiFaBio

These past four years at Oswego High School have been full of joyous times and tearful events. While I am happy to be on my way with my new collegiate life I will miss the endless hours spent in B-2 and memories that will never be forgotten with past Buc Bulletineers, the past three years spent in Mrs. Kelly’s sixth grade class, and my Thursdays spent in Student Council meetings. (However, I will not miss my freshman brother ignoring me in the halls.) Now that I am a senior and I am headed into my final days here, I can truly say that I am, and will always be, a Buccaneer, and I am proud that I was a part of the Oswego High School’s Student Voice.

After four years at OHS, it would be dishonest of me to sit here and tell you how fun and memorable my time here has been, to gush over the endless stores of precious memories I’ve amassed in these, the supposed “best four years” of my life. But it would also be unfair of me to say it’s been a wholly worthless experience. Despite my frequent rants about how much I hate marching band, journalism, NHS, and pretty much anything else I’ve spent enough time doing, I actually quite enjoyed these things deep down in that void where my soul should probably be. At least, I enjoyed some aspects of them. In any case, although I’ll never cop to having enjoyed my imprisonment here, I would like to thank those individuals who made it tolerable, or even occasionally pleasant. You know who you are. Actually, you probably don’t. But that’s okay, I’m sending good vibes your way regardless.

Rachel ClarkEmily DiFabio

Columns


14

After enduring four years (ap-proximately 1260 hours, or 75,600 minutes, or 4,536,000 seconds, depending on how you’d prefer to assess it) at Oswego High School, I’d say I’m relatively familiar with the realities of this glorious institu-tion (I use the term ‘glorious’ very loosely here). Like most of my fellow students, I’ve spent the last four years complaining incessantly about the various problems, whether significant or superficial, that I see at OHS. Then again, I’ll also admit, rather grudg-ingly, that there are certainly some positive aspects of the school. So I’m putting OHS to the test – weigh-ing the good and the bad of Oswego High School on my own baseless, wholly subjective scale, and we’ll see whether it’s actually been as awful as we complainers would like to think.

The Good* Our cafeteria is pretty! The

booths, the big windows, the (unnec-essary) big-screen TVs… It brings some degree of class to OHS. But on the other hand, those of us who got stuck in 8th-period lunch aren’t even allowed to sit in the new portion. Only plus 2 because I got shafted.

* Plus 6 for the new science wing, despite the fact that as far as I can tell, no one’s allowed in that new courtyard.

* Although we at the Buc Bulletin know that plenty of you don’t actu-ally read this, we do win a whole lot of awards (shameless plug). Plus 5. The yearbook’s just as suc-cessful, so plus another 5 for them.

* While we’re on the various OHS communications programs, plus 5 for the fact that we’ve got great facilities for WBUC.

* You know, most of our teaching staff really isn’t that bad (yes, that is a compliment). Plus 8.

* We made it through this whole

year without any “race wars!” But that’s a wash, because we really shouldn’t have to be worrying about race wars in the first place. After all, this is Oswego, NY.

* The games we play in gym class are actually pretty fun, even for those of us who aren’t necessarily super awesome at them. Plus 2 each for the Pin Game and Ohkie Ball, but minus 2 for the departure of The Gauntlet. And plus another 1 just because Mr. McCaul is a champion. “Ohkie ohkie ohkie!!!”

* Plus 3 for the fact that most of us haven’t been subjected to swim-ming in gym class for the past two years.

* The opportunity for students to volunteer at Leighton is a great ex-perience for everyone involved, be it the OHS students, the Leighton kids, or the Leighton teachers. Plus 8.

* On that note, plus another 10 for other student involvement in the community, be it through National Honor Society, Key Club, Interact Club, religious groups, Youth Court, or our local chapter of Becca’s Closet.

* Plus 1 for the fact that stu-dents now have the option of getting Vitamin Water with their lunch, rather than exclusively in the irregularly-functioning vending machines.

* Plus another 2 for the fact our lunches really aren’t all that bad, at least when it comes to taste. I’d add more points for the lunches except for the unfortunate reality that nutrition-

ally, they’re not so great. * The chance to travel to new

places offers an exciting oppor-tunity for students to broaden

their horizons. Plus 6 for the travel oppor-tunities provided by

Travel Club, Environ-mental Club, the march-ing band, and some OHS

sports teams.* Our annual Battle of the

Bands, JV Show, and Senior Night give students a chance to showcase their talents. Plus 4 for the fact that not only do we have some insanely talented people at OHS, we give them a chance to show us what they’ve got.

* Plus 3 for the introduction of the Student Services EXPO this year.

While I personally didn’t attend (I’m a senior, I don’t think it would’ve done much for me), it sounded like it would have been extremely helpful to just about anyone, whether you’re planning on going to college, go-ing into the military, or entering the workforce. At least, that’s the impres-sion I got from the flyers.

* Plus 5 for the fact that the girls’ hockey team brought home OHS’s first state championship in decades this year.

* Plus another 5 for those individual students who have excelled at a na-tional level and represented Os-wego in such places as the Junior Statesmen Summer School at Yale, National Young Leaders Conferences, the Harvard Summer School Secondary School Program, and the Army All-American Marching Band.

TOTAL: 81

The Bad* Students never really seem to

comprehend that no one wants to witness them seducing their signifi-cant other in the hallways in between classes. Minus 4.

* …Boogers on the bathroom walls? I know we never make it through an entire school year with-out running out of tissues (minus 3 for that), but seriously? That’s just disgusting. Minus 6.

* I know people who took AP tests this year in subjects like Art History, Computer Science, and Sanitation Engineering (…maybe not the last one). We don’t even have AP English. Come on. But only minus 10 because while this really isn’t helping any of us with college admissions, there are also a bunch of people who are super-jealous that we have AP Psych.

* Although we’ve got a bunch of great extracurricular activities right now, they’re pretty much gone next year. Sorry, underclassmen. Minus 20.

* While that snapping turtle roaming the halls did provide a welcome distraction from chemistry last year, that’s just really mean to the

turtle (and the snakes and frogs that were also involved). Minus 1.

* ...We really don’t recycle pa-per? Minus 7.

* This isn’t really OHS-specific, but after attending several Board of Education meetings over the past four years, I’ve resigned myself to the fact that regardless of who’s on the board, it’s going to conduct itself in the most

immature fashion conceivable. Minus 20, because honestly, these are the people determin-

ing the future of our education, can’t they get their act together?

* What’s up with eliminating credit-bearing volunteer service for teachers this year? Is there

really anything bad about volunteering? Minus 8.

* The gym really isn’t a great location for a semi-

formal dance. Who wants to get all dolled up to go chill in the same place where you were sweating it out to Ms. Kasmer’s step aerobics the day before? Just sayin’. Minus 2.

* It seems as though every summer since we seniors entered this school, they’ve attempted to do something to fix the heating and cool-ing system. Yet parts of the B wing still function as saunas, while the temperatures in other areas top out around 50 degrees. Minus 3.

TOTAL: -84

GRAND TOTAL: -3. So appar-ently, complainers, our negativity is justified, as my (negatively slanted) analysis of these past four years has yielded a negative total. I tried to think of good things, I really did. I promise. I can’t say I’m surprised that I wound up with a negative total, but I would say I’m surprised that the margin was so small (-3 as opposed to -743). So, seniors, go forth to big-ger and better things. Underclassmen, endure the next one to three years as best as you can. Best of luck either way.

Editor’s Note: This subjective review of Oswego High School is conceptually based on the Reality Index found in NYMag.com’s weekly reviews of Gossip Girl.

Disillusioned Senior Subjectively Rates OHS

Features

June 2010

15


Normally, one’s high school experience lasts for four years, but Angelica Alejandro’s was different. Her high school career lasted for two years and eight months, and now she is halfway across the world preparing for her “new beginning.”

Oswego High School’s Angelica, or “Leica,”was born in Pasig, Philippines, and after graduating a month and a year early from OHS, she is off to her home country to attend her father’s alma mater, Ateneo De Manila University, in the Philippine capital’s metro area. In a week, when classes at OHS are winding down, Leica will start college courses at Ateneo De Manila. She has been accepted into the Health Sci-ences Program and will be working to earn her honors, a four-year pre-medicine degree. After her four years, she will be able to continue her medical schooling at Ateneo, at the University of the Philippines or at Fatima University. Including pre-med, medical school and residency, she expects to be in school for another seven to ten years.

Leica’s father, John Alejandro, recalls how Leica came to the realization that she wanted to be in the medical field around sixth or seventh grade, and has been working toward the goal since. “I remember her telling me once, ‘How can one be happy in life while many people around you are suffering, especially those lacking proper medical care--the uninsured, and the indigent?’

“In her own words, ‘Am I my brother’s keeper? In my opinion, becoming a doctor can answer this question. Nothing can be more rewarding than help-ing a fellow human being in their most vulnerable moment or in their greatest hour of need. Besides, it’s a moral imperative.’ Don’t ask me how she came up with this. She has always been full of surprises,” said John Alejandro.

Graduating in itself can be a full-time task for most, so how did Leica do it so early? “It’s all about planning. After that, it’s easy,” said Leica. However, after reviewing her classes and certain procedures she had to do to graduate early; easy isn’t exactly the cor-

rect label. Leica took summer classes, had to double up in some classes, and cut lunch from her schedule to obtain more credits this year. In this year alone, her class schedule ranged from Honors Chemistry to Anatomy and Physiology to Honors pre-calculus and double English. “I counted the years and figured that I’ll be in school FOREVER if I didn’t hurry up and graduate,” said Leica Alejandro.

In regards to Leica’s ambitious schedule and grades, Ateneo is a good fit for her college education. Not only is the school tailor-made for medicine majors, but it has a noble history. The national hero of the Philippines, Dr. Jose Rizal, attended college at Ateneo in the 1800s and it’s one of the top universities in the country (plus, according to John Alejandro, college in the Philippines is cheaper than in the U.S.).

“She is the kind of student who always has something new up her sleeve, you never know what her unique personality is going to bring,” said OHS junior Jacqueline Hondro.

Not only did Leica immerse herself in all the courses that OHS had to offer, she was also involved in the community and other clubs and activities. Leica partook in Marching Band, color guard, band, Poetry Club, Art Club, For-eign Exchange Student Club, GSA, NHS, Me-dia Club, and was a St. Mary’s church-school volunteer. She was in St. Mary’s Church Choir and volunteered at Oswego Hospital. Leica plans to maintain some of her activities in college. For instance, she plans to join Ateneo’s church choir, which writes songs for the Catholic churches all over the country. “Leica is successful because she is smart, self disci-plined and responsible,” said John Alegandro.

Leica was able to graduate early because she got all her required classes out of the way and the only Regents exam she had to take was the June US History test, which she made up for by taking the SAT II. Her father also noted that OHS was very supportive when it came to allowing Leica to graduate early.

“When it comes to teachers that have influenced me, Mrs. Renee Warren, definitely. I’ve never had her as a teacher in OHS, but she taught me in eighth grade. She’s done so much for me. Also, there’s Mr. Bill Palange and Mr. Steve Defren. They inspire me to do better in everything. They’re champs,” said Leica.

Leica is able to speak and read Filipino, but she’s a little worried about her ability to write in the lan-guage. Luckily, most of her classes will be in-structed in English.

“The hardest part about graduating early was prematurely leaving my friends. It’s hard enough that we’re starting our new lives after graduation, but I guess I wanted a little more time with my friends,” said Leica.

“Getting her diploma was bittersweet because she didn’t get to celebrate with her friends or have a proper ceremony. But she has the maturity to know that her goal is larger than the present situation and that her aspirations may lead to some small sacrifice,” said John Alejandro.

Leica not only left OHS and her friends for her new life, she left behind her immediate family; including her father, John; her mother, Jane; her younger sister, Paulina; and her younger brother, John Paul, who still live in Oswego.

“But thank goodness for technology, because of Skype or web cam, she seems so close to us,” said John.

“As of now, I’m living with my grandparents... and my aunt and uncle and cousins. Like many Filipino families, we live with extended family. It’s a little crazy because I’ve forgotten what it’s like to live with so many younger children, but there’s not been a dull moment in the few days that I’ve been here,” said Leica.

Leica misses Oswego, and uncharacteristically of many Oswegonians, the cold. Apparently since she arrived in the Philippines, the high temperatures have been in the 90s, and it’s been humid.

Leica’s message for all of us here in Oswego: “It’s a small world. See you soon.”

Graduation Comes Early for Alejandro

Guidance counselor Geoff Baer presents Angelica Alejandro with her diploma in an early graduation ceremony last month.

Photo courtesy of Mrs. renee Warren

By Kaitlyn Scanlon Webmaster

Entertainment

June 2010

16


By Vanessa SheffieldReporter

Reflection of our Fads from the Past

Gel pens.• We all had our gel pens, matching paper, and gel pen tattoos.

Pokémon cards.• Everyone traded them, but did anyone actually know how to use them?

• Choker necklaces. No mat-ter the occasion, you always wore your choker.

Lisa Frank.• School supply style has never been taken more seriously.

The lava game.• It didn’t matter what park we were playing at, just make sure you don’t touch the wood-chips!

The boy band era.• The never -ending debate of Backstreet Boys vs. NSYNC still goes on…

Nickelodeon.• Rugrats and Kenan & Kel have been replaced by Danny Phantom and Drake & Josh. What is the world coming to?

Paperclip discipline system.•

You knew you did something wrong when the teacher moved your paperclip from the green circle to the yel-low one.

• Holiday parties. The annual Halloween, Christmas and Valentine’s D a y p a r -ties never got old in elementary school.

D E A R •time. The best time of the day to pass notes, and do any-thing but ac-tually read.

R e c e s s• . K i c k b a l l , tag, basketball…the possi-bilities were endless.

Snack time.• One of the many luxuries of kindergarten and firstgrade…

Seven Up.• Heads down, thumbs up!

Plastic pouch milk bags.• Our best excuse to make as big of a mess possible in lunch.

Book fairs.• The best time to splurge on puppy dog post-ers, big erasers, and Junie B.

Jones.

Tamagotchi/•Gigapet . Our first chance of feeling respon-sible, being able to take care of our virtual pets!

Furbies.• The most adorable, creepy, annoying toy we ever had.

Nintendo 64/ •Gameboy Color.

The good ol’ days before Call of Duty ruled the earth.

Easy Bake Oven.• Who knew making something out of water and powder tasted so good?

Mary-Kate and Ashley.•

The Hannah Montana of the ‘90s.

Hot wheels.• A guys ver-sion of playing with Barbie dolls.

Skip It’s.• Enough said.

Beanie Babies.• The best toy you weren’t allowed to play with

The Sandlot.• “Legends are remembered, but heroes nev-er die”

Slap bracelets.• How they seriously were considered to be weapons and taken away when we were in el-ementary school is still mind boggling.

Wind suits.• Who didn’t love looking like a parachute?

Light up sneakers.• Biggest mistakes of childhood… wearing your light-up sneak-ers during night tag.

As the years roll on and we reflect on the past, the fads that slipped our minds re-emerge and bring with them the irreplaceable memories that molded our childhoods. Before we all take our last steps before going down the one-way road to adulthood, let’s take a peek at

yesteryear and reminisce about our favorite memories.

Although these fads and many others have been replaced with new ones like Facebook and Ugg boots, they still keep a stronghold on the childhood we all miss. Times to reflect on our

favorite memories from the past help us give a better perspective on what we can expect from the future as well. Thanks for the memories…

Entertainment

June 2010

17


Paranormal Activity I’m not going to lie, this is not a movie I

went to see or ever plan to see. I decided to watch the trailer for experimental purposes, or tried to. Let’s just say I’ve never shut my computer down faster. As soon as that sheet started moving I was out. It’s based on a true story but even researching into it freaked me out. I’ve heard mixed reviews about this movie. Some people don’t buy it, others swear by it. According to what I’ve heard

from those who have seen the film, the intensity or fear instilled by the trailer is nothing compared to the movie its self.

2012 According to the Mayan calendar, on

December 21, 2012 at 11:11 the world is supposed to end, or “restart.” The “theory” is that the “great cycle” will have run its course by the winter solstice in 2012 and that a New World Age is to begin. The movie 2012 plays into this Mayan belief. In the film, solar storms cause the Earth’s core to heat up and, in turn, make the crust of Earth unstable. The condition of the crust and temperature change

result in a chain reaction of natural disasters that narrowly deplete the human race and change the face of the Earth. When the government finally buys into the theory and witnesses the destruction, it spends massive amounts of money to construct arcs, or safety boats to maintain some of the human population.

New Moon Team Edward or team Jacob may be

debatable among “Twilighters,” but the success of the second movie, in the Twilight Saga is unquestionable. The movie broke box office records by raking in $140 million in the first weekend. And for those few people who are unfamiliar with the movies/ books. New Moon is the classic tale of choosing between two boys, but with a twist. One is a werewolf and the other is a vampire. In regards

to graphics and cinematography, New Moon over shined Twilight, the first movie in the saga.

Avatar James Cameron, the director of the

Academy Award-winning movie, Titanic proved he still has the “magic touch” when it comes to cranking out epic films. Cameron’s film this time was the 3D sci-fi box off hit, Avatar. The movie is about a paralyzed, ex-marine, Jake Sully (Sam Worthington) who travels to the distant planet of Pandora in order to help a mega corporation mine the planet for a valuable ore. The only problem is the biggest

deposit of the substance lies underneath the home of the native Na’vi, tall, blue-skinned, alien-human like creatures. Jake’s loyalty is tested when he falls in love with the Na’vi princess Neytiri and must chose which side to fight for. But obviously the main attraction of this movie is the special effects that seamlessly fit into the film and are amazing, to say the least.

Valentine’s Day February 14, comes around every year,

along with expectation, disappointment, loneliness and, of course, love. And if you’re a fan of romantic comedies, this is a must-see film. The movie follows a group of L.A. people on one Valentine’s Day, as they struggle to deal with love and the obstacles it presents. And if this does not tempt you to see the film, maybe the long list of celebrities who are packed into this intertwined group of

love stories will, such as Ashton Kutcher, Jennifer Garner, Julia Roberts, Emma Roberts, Anne Hathaway, Jessica Alba, Jessica Biel, Bradley Cooper, Eric Dane, Patrick Dempsey, Jamie Foxx, George Lopez, Hector Elizondo, Kathy Bates, Queen Latifah, Taylor Lautner, Taylor Swift and more.

Alice in WonderlandHow do you successfully remake a timeless

Disney classic? Have Tim Burton director it, cast Johnny Depp in a major role and make it 3D. Even though the flashy costumes and makeup may pull viewers into this “new generation adaption,” the story line is not lost in the mix. So if you haven’t experienced this on the big screen, it’s a must see rental, although it will definitely not have the same effect.

Nightmare on Elm Street“One, two Freddy’s coming for you. Three,

four better lock your door.” Freddy Krueger is back on the big screen as well in his victim’s dreams. This time Krueger is after a group of suburban teenagers, who evidently have a connection to each other through their pre-k days, and let’s just say, their dreams are not the first place they metKrueger.

Iron Man 2 Iron Man 2 is the sequel to the first Iron

Man which was released in 2008 and is the second film in the planned trilogy. In the film, Tony Stark (Garry Shandling) has revealed his identity as Iron Man, and not only is he facing family problems but the government is on his case because it doesn’t like the idea of a private citizen possessing such potentially destructive technology. However, Stark isn’t the only one with technological

power; his enemy Ivan Vanko (Mickey Rourke) has developed a variation of the Iron Man tech.

Shrek 4: Shrek Forever After Throughout the years we have fallen in love

with Shrek, whether it be his disgusting habits or his onion-like personality, he’s won his audience over. However, in this finale 3D chapter everything changes, when Shrek makes a deal with Rumpelstiltskin. Shrek finds himself in an alternate version of Far Far Away, where ogers are hunted, and he and Fiona never feel in love. Shrek’s only hope is to try and restore his world before it’s too late.

Sherlock Holmes

Sherlock Holmes and his assistant Dr. Waston hit the big screen around Christmas break.

Their case: after catching serial killer Lord Blackwood, he mysteriously returns from the grave to continue his murderous ways. Holmes must search for the truth in a web of murder and deceit. The movie is witty and action packed, definitely a must see film from this year.

The School Year In Review, Movie ReviewBy Kaitlyn ScanlonWebmaster

Features


18

Dear Mr. Phaneuf,

It was that simple. One minute I was casually meandering my way into SUPA English on the first day of school, sat in the back, smoothed my hair, gazed at the afternoon sun diffusing a honey tinge, and convinced from your first few snippets that this would be another “Identify the foreshadowing in Of Mice of Men” or “What does the wedding bed symbolize in The Odyssey?” type of class. Easy, boring and most importantly: a college credit.

But the next minute I found myself bewildered, stunned, wide-eyed, and ferociously gripped on your every spirited word. I’d never encountered such wit, such fascinating ambiguity yet striking clarity, such charismatic intelligence. I must admit. Those first few days I sat perplexed on my deck, trying to make sense of this new encounter, watching the sun go down just to wait for its return; another day of SUPA.

Yet I sat in your class with an air of fierce privacy, tireless composure and callous coolness, laughing with righteous indignation at the normalcy that others took for granted. In the previous year I had formed, you could say, a brittle outer casting – an emotional chrysalis. However, sitting in your class I learned that perhaps, just perhaps, it is okay to be skeptical of everything and everyone, that you didn’t have to accept the world as it was, and deep thoughts weren’t always sickly paranoid but rather profoundly insightful. You taught me discourse, a way to intelligently sort out your grudges against the world in an approach more effective than anger. With the intellect and cynicism of what was inescapably my English class, I came to understand that it was rage – not strength – that drove my insistence on steel reinforcements for the sandcastles of my heart. That somehow, through reintroducing me to the vivacity of life from the hilarity of George Carlin, the obscure regions of music, the brilliance of film, the conscious discernment of Jack Kerouac, the abandonment of desire in Eastern thought and the discourses of fashion and insanity, I came to understand that to truly put yourself together again you had to, in reminiscence, let yourself finally be broken.

There was never an abrupt revelation, a whole and tidy explanation for why things happen, how to fix them, or if it is even possible. It came in bits in pieces in our afternoon classes and I stitched them together wherever they fit, and when I was done I held myself up to my bitter heart, and there were still gaping holes and I looked like a rag doll, tattered, damaged. But what you gave me was a way to move past indifference to the world that butchered me and toward a rejuvenating critique.

It hasn’t been happiness, exactly, not in the sense of how I observed people were supposed to be happy, either with a big loving family, the elated sensation of a first love, or even a joyously silly sleep over with all the girls… But there has been a stillness as the afternoon sun somberly melted into your classroom windowsill, and some afternoons, that was precisely what the heart wanted.

I just wanted to say thank you.You’re far more than a run-of-the-mill instructor plugging required material into

student’s heads. Your intellectualized compassion can’t hide under your haberdashery philistine, stupefying lexiphanic sesquipedalianism and nerdish troglodyte façade (If there is one thing I learned from hanging around you it’s a monstrous vocabulary), the positive effect you have on individual students is too large to be disguised under such camouflage. You are a teacher in every sense of the word; I want you to know that.

And before plunging wholeheartedly into the overwhelming artificial stimuli of New York City, I’ll cast a final glance at this comparably desolate town, and take a humbling comfort in knowing that there lives a figure I can always trustingly look up to, even if I do realize “that God is Pooh Bear.” I hope I make you proud.

OHS Classes Offer Thought Provoking Opportunities

by his monitor as he coasts through yet another level of CubeField. Though every so often, fixes his attention on my screen and begins to mock each word I’m typing in a failed attempt to impersonate my voice.

As I’m back-spacing my story, I hear two loud, very distinct laughs chiming in unison, which I quickly recognize as Emily Fultz and Aaron Callahan. It wasn’t until then that it hits me that the duo has been like cookies and milk all year: always handing in stories on time and rarely making conversation with anyone but each other. Mr. Reeser hovers above them, borrowing their mouse to share his expertise of layout. Emily and Aaron watch with intensity, forcing themselves to memorize each detail.

Directly ahead of those two, I spot Vanessa Sheffield with her headphones in, revising and perfecting the story she had just finished. I can’t help but appreciate her incredible knack for knowing precisely the types of stories that sparks everyone’s interest, seeing how her stories are always the first I read when the paper is out.

In the very corner of my eye, I notice someone in a bright assortment of clothing. I do a double take, “Is that Lady Gaga?” my mind questions for a split second. “Oh, wait. That’s just Kim Bailey.” She’s at her computer with her headphones on, putting the final touches on one of her graphics. In a most obnoxious fashion, she belts out some overplayed pop song, but is unaware of the strange looks she is receiving from all of us surrounding her. Her only concern is making sure her illustrations for the paper are top-notch.

Now that class is nearly over, I focus in on my rough drafts and conclude that my night will consist of revision and typing, along with unhealthy amounts of coffee. The bell rings, signaling the end of the period. As everyone disperses, I am not the least bit surprised to find Kaitlyn Scanlon scrolling hurriedly through her six page story before she logs off. The last thing I hear as I stroll out of the room is a series of chuckles from Mr. Reeser and Mr. McCrobie, as Kaitlyn asks her ritual end-of-class question.

Feeling defeated by my own procrastination, I start to ask myself how I survived Journalism with a bunch of obsessive, highly-opinionated control freaks. It occurred to me, simply, that the class is just as much diligent, intelligent, enthusiastic, and dedicated as anything else. Once we enter that room, we become a team. That’s a feeling that can’t be truly appreciated through one day in the life of a high school journalist.

continued from page 12

A Typical Day in Journalism Class

Sports

June 2010

19


Dear Mr. Ahart and the volleyball girls,

Reflectingonmyhighschoolcareer,Iknowinmyheartthatmymostfondmemorieswillbethoseonthevolleyballteam.FromthetimeIwalkedintomyfirstpreseasonpracticeasalanky,skinny,inexperiencedrookie,untilmyverylastgamewhereIsealedthedealformyDivision1scholarship,therewasneveranydoubtinmymindtheloveandadmirationIhaveformyteam.

To the girls:Nomatterifweweredoingourpreseasonsprintsinthe95degreesummerheat,orjerkin’everytimeweheardourfavoriteteamsong“You’reaJerk,”wewereabletoenjoyeachother’scompanyinanyenvironment.Italwaysgotmehownomatterwherewewere,orwhatclasswewerein,duringeveryfiredrill,peprally,andassembly,weclungtoeachotherlikeabunchofgiddylittleschoolgirls.Wedon’tallhangoutafterschooleveryday,andpeoplemayconsiderustobeindifferentcliques,butwheneverwe’reinthatgymtogether,nomatterhowlongit’sbeen,we’reabletobejustascloseasthelasttimewewerealltogether.

Areplayinmymindgoesthroughmyhead,repeatingoverandoveragainourlastgametogetherinLiverpool.Wewalkedoffthecourtdevastatedbythetwopointloss,andourexpressionsshowedit.Icouldn’tcrybackthenaboutthelossthough,becauseIneverexperiencedaproudermomentasateamleader.Theeffortandheartthateveryoneputintothatgameandtheabsoluteselfishnessthatweshowedasaprogram,bringsmeadmirationandprideknowingthatIcouldcallallofyoumyteam.Icouldhaveneverdreamedofabetterwaytogooutandendmyfouryearcareer,onthebestteamIhaveeverhad.

IthinkabouttheadventuresthatI’mgoingtohaveonmynewteamnextyear,anditbreaksmyhearttoknowIwon’tbeabletohaveanotheryearwithOswegoVeeb.NomoreteamsleepoversatMary’s,ortwohourbusridesat6a.m,orblastingourdancemusicduringpractice.Fromtheseniors,downtothesophomores,IstillfeelthebondthatIsharedwitheachandeveryoneofyou.Welaughedtogether,criedtogether,anddominatedtheleaguetogether.Youaremycomfortzone,andI’mconstantlybattlingbacktheemotionsIface,knowingthatIcanneveragainsteponthecourtwiththeteamthatchangedmylife.Iwon’tbeabletocometothegamesnextyearbecauseofmyscheduleformycollegeteam,butIhopeyoucanallpromisethatyou’llcarryontheworkethicthatweshowedlastyear,andkeepmeinyourheartseverysinglegame.

To Mr. Ahart:BeforeIwastheoutgoingandcompetitiveathleteIamtoday,youwererighttherepushingmealongtoreachmyfullpotential.Evenasanawkwardeighthgrader,Ihaveyoutothankfortakingariskonme,andtrainingmetoplayvolleyball.AsI’vegrownthroughouttheyears,andgonethroughallofmyupsanddowns,I’veneverhadamoreinfluentialmentortoshowmetheropesandremindmeofwhereIcamefrom.You’vebeenashouldertocryon,aneartohearmycomplaining,andafriendthatI’vebeenabletotrust.Ithinkofyouasfamily,andI’mforevergratefulfortheopportunitiesyou’vegiventome.

ThefavoritememoryIcherishwasmyfreshmanyearwhenIbroketheschooltriplejumprecord.Webothstartedtocryandgushovertheaccomplishmentanditwasamilestonemomentinthefiveyearswespenttogetherascoachandathlete.Justlikeanyotherhighschooler,I’vehadmymomentsofimmaturity,butallIcanaskforintheendisthatyoulookattheyearswe’vespenttogether,andthinkofmeasasuccess,andasclosetoyouasadaughter.IowethesuccessIhavetodaytoyou,thankyou.

OHS Sports Create Lifetime Memories In It To Win It!

Boys’ Varsity Baseball:Section III qualifiers

Girls’ Varsity Softball:16-4 overall wins/losses

Second seed in Sectionals

Boys’ Varsity Lacrosse:

17 graduating seniors

Girls’ Varsity Lacrosse:11-7 overall

2nd place in Sectionals(Section III Class B)

Boys’ Varsity Tennis:

8-4 overall wins/losses3rd place in Sectionals

(Section III Class A)

Individual Achievements Include-

Girls’ Varsity Track and Field:

Eliza Parker

State Qualifying meet participant

Boys’ Varsity Track and Field:Eli Tyler

State Qualifying meet participant

Girls’ Varsity Golf:Rachel Baxter (Sectional Qualifier)

Boys’ Varsity Golf:Corey Shuffenecker

Scott QuenvilleSam LaLonde

(Sectional Qualifiers)

illustration courtesy of Mike Brown, ocsd printing services

Osw

ego

Hig

h S

choo

l’s S

tude

nt V

oice

vo

lum

e 13

num

ber 7

June

201

0

Bucc

anee

r Bul

letin

Spo

rts

2009-10 Nominations by Coaches for Senior Athletic Awards

Congratulations to you all! Thanks for being part of Oswego

Athletics.

Shane DemoCross Country

Baseball

Vanessa SheffieldVolleyballBasketball

Track and Field

Michael BrownHockeyFootballBaseball

Michele CanaleSoftball

Basketball

Shane BartrumWrestlingFootball

Maia CzarneckiSoccer

Lacrosse

Daniel MontagnolaBasketballBaseball

Laura O’BrienSwimming

Softball

Eliza ParkerCross CountryIndoor Track

Track and Field

Amanda D’AmicoSoccer

Lacrosse

June 2010

Documents

Transcript of June 2010