By Erin Rose Fauchon
Sometimes we think those drills we perform in school are just silly, and pointless, but when a real emergency comes, none of us would know what to do. We had a drill about what we would do if a shooter had come into the school. This drill had us turn the lights and smart boards off, lock the door, stay away from windows, get low, and stay to the back of the room. Because of this drill, we will know what to do if something were to happen.
On Monday, November 29th, a 15 year old boy named Samuel Hengel in Wisconsin held his class at gunpoint. No one is sure what motivated this, but they all knew he was well-liked. The teacher and students had kept themselves calm while all this was going on. His classmates had even talked to him about his favorite activities to keep Samuel Hengel as calm as they all tried to be. After holding his class for about six hours, he has shot himself and died in the hospital the next day.
It is incidents like this and what had happened April 20th, 1999 at Columbine, which created the need to these types of drills. It’s like how incidents like the Our Lady of the Angels was one of the fires to have us have those drills, many lives could be lost. This fire had occurred in a catholic school in Chicago in 1958. There were 1,600 people in the school at the time and 95 had lost their lives. This school had very little way to get out of it and due to this, the death toll had risen.
When the fire alarm goes off, many believe it’s a drill. Much of the time it is, and that is why many students don’t take it seriously. There is no order when trying to get out of the building, everyone is talking, people try to find their friends, and some don’t even bother leaving the school because they know it’s just a drill. Many students don’t take school drills seriously but, if we didn’t have these drills, people would die. These drills are to teach people what to do in an emergency and the only people taking it seriously are the principals. We need to take it into our own hands to be serious during these drills and to make sure we know what to do. Next time might not be a drill.
Wednesday, December 8, 2010
Has it Gone Too Far?
By Brianne Garcett
After eating a huge Thanksgiving dinner, it’s time to get out your tents and folding chairs and line up outside stores waiting hours for the so called best deals. Every Black Friday, hundreds of thousands of people wait for those doors to open to get their hands on the two hundred dollar flat screen televisions, but is it really worth it? Over the past couple of years, this shopping has gotten out of hand; it’s becoming a holiday itself. Are the deals that great where you’ll battle these huge crowds and risk your life?
Within the last three years, many people have become crazed. They will wake up at three in the morning or sometimes even camping out outside the store for the night to get the best deals. Right when the doors open to these stores, that’s when the madness begins. In Buffalo, a man was trampled by a crowd rushing into Target early Friday morning. The man was screaming and yelling for people to back up, but these insane shoppers quickly scrambled over the man and into the store. People haven’t learned from much publicized, infamous death of a Wal-Mart employee that occurred in 2008 on Long Island. Frenzied shoppers literally pushed and ran right over him without even caring enough to stop and help him.
Not only having to wait for the stores to open, waiting on the lines for two hours just to purchase the gifts is a hassle. It’s like sitting in the waiting room of the dentists’ office waiting to be called in to get your tooth pulled. Normal civilians turn into monsters when waiting on these long lines, such as one woman in Wisconsin who was arrested after threatening to shoot anyone who dared to cut in front of her on line.
The day that is supposed to be meant to fully digest the large amounts of food you ate the day before has turned into life or death situations. Are the deals really that unbelievable that people will do anything to get that television or piece of clothing at a bargain?
After eating a huge Thanksgiving dinner, it’s time to get out your tents and folding chairs and line up outside stores waiting hours for the so called best deals. Every Black Friday, hundreds of thousands of people wait for those doors to open to get their hands on the two hundred dollar flat screen televisions, but is it really worth it? Over the past couple of years, this shopping has gotten out of hand; it’s becoming a holiday itself. Are the deals that great where you’ll battle these huge crowds and risk your life?
Within the last three years, many people have become crazed. They will wake up at three in the morning or sometimes even camping out outside the store for the night to get the best deals. Right when the doors open to these stores, that’s when the madness begins. In Buffalo, a man was trampled by a crowd rushing into Target early Friday morning. The man was screaming and yelling for people to back up, but these insane shoppers quickly scrambled over the man and into the store. People haven’t learned from much publicized, infamous death of a Wal-Mart employee that occurred in 2008 on Long Island. Frenzied shoppers literally pushed and ran right over him without even caring enough to stop and help him.
Not only having to wait for the stores to open, waiting on the lines for two hours just to purchase the gifts is a hassle. It’s like sitting in the waiting room of the dentists’ office waiting to be called in to get your tooth pulled. Normal civilians turn into monsters when waiting on these long lines, such as one woman in Wisconsin who was arrested after threatening to shoot anyone who dared to cut in front of her on line.
The day that is supposed to be meant to fully digest the large amounts of food you ate the day before has turned into life or death situations. Are the deals really that unbelievable that people will do anything to get that television or piece of clothing at a bargain?
WikiLeaks: Friend or Foe?
By Kristin Bonura
Curiosity seems to be the driving force within many Americans today. Reading up on their daily gossip or spreading rumors in the high school halls, many of us seem to want to know what’s going on or the next who’s who. One of the more recent scandalous events is the diplomatic secrets leaked by an organization, named WikiLeaks. They’ve recently released many documents, which people say could severely damage the United States’ foreign ally connections. Others argue that the documents were released from the United States database and are true. But when exactly do these exploits of information become too much?
WikiLeaks is an organization that uploads documents and comments on them. This organization is run by a group of hackers from various countries. The founder and now, on of the most targeted men in the world, Julian Assange denies many of the allegations made against him and believes he was only exploiting the truth. Though they’ve been around since 2006, it has recently gained popularity this past summer, when it leaked 90,000 secret documents about the war in Afghanistan. Most recently, over Thanksgiving break the site has released over 250,000 diplomatic secrets.
Heard around the world, countries have been angered by the secrets leaked by WikiLeaks. Many of the leaked diplomatic secrets were about the weaknesses and consisted of many rude comments about the leaders of foreign nations. On Monday Ecuador’s’ foreign minister said that they wanted Assange to come to Ecuador to discuss some of the leaked documents. This was later named false by Ecuador’s president, saying that these were the foreign minister’s beliefs. Sweden has also put Julian on the “most wanted list” and hopes to try him on five counts of sexual molestation. The Swedish government said that Assange could face up to two years in prison.
Within our nation, WikiLeaks is even causing a stir. Government officials and the Federal Bureau of Investigations are leading investigations on who Assange could’ve obtained this information. The United States are also trying to convict Assange of espionage and terrorism. Former President Bill Clinton has stated that he believes that because of the actions of WikiLeaks, some people will lose their lives. Secretary of State, Hilary Clinton has also issued statements admitting that Assange has committed a crime against the United States.
Julian Assange believes that he did nothing wrong. He even gave a statement to the Times Magazine saying that Hilary Clinton should quit her job because of the espionage and spying on diplomats. Assange released this information because he had connections and had the intelligence to get this information. His leaks or secrets haven’t been proved wrong either. From the New York Times, David Brooks comments that “far from respecting authority, Assange seems to be an old-fashioned anarchist who believes that all ruling institutions are corrupt and public pronouncements are lies.” Looking through our history books, doesn’t there seem to be a repetition? Since the beginning on our country, we’ve seen treason, scandals, and terrorism repeat itself. If what Assange is leaking is all true, doesn’t the American public have a right to know what their government is doing?
Curiosity seems to be the driving force within many Americans today. Reading up on their daily gossip or spreading rumors in the high school halls, many of us seem to want to know what’s going on or the next who’s who. One of the more recent scandalous events is the diplomatic secrets leaked by an organization, named WikiLeaks. They’ve recently released many documents, which people say could severely damage the United States’ foreign ally connections. Others argue that the documents were released from the United States database and are true. But when exactly do these exploits of information become too much?
WikiLeaks is an organization that uploads documents and comments on them. This organization is run by a group of hackers from various countries. The founder and now, on of the most targeted men in the world, Julian Assange denies many of the allegations made against him and believes he was only exploiting the truth. Though they’ve been around since 2006, it has recently gained popularity this past summer, when it leaked 90,000 secret documents about the war in Afghanistan. Most recently, over Thanksgiving break the site has released over 250,000 diplomatic secrets.
Heard around the world, countries have been angered by the secrets leaked by WikiLeaks. Many of the leaked diplomatic secrets were about the weaknesses and consisted of many rude comments about the leaders of foreign nations. On Monday Ecuador’s’ foreign minister said that they wanted Assange to come to Ecuador to discuss some of the leaked documents. This was later named false by Ecuador’s president, saying that these were the foreign minister’s beliefs. Sweden has also put Julian on the “most wanted list” and hopes to try him on five counts of sexual molestation. The Swedish government said that Assange could face up to two years in prison.
Within our nation, WikiLeaks is even causing a stir. Government officials and the Federal Bureau of Investigations are leading investigations on who Assange could’ve obtained this information. The United States are also trying to convict Assange of espionage and terrorism. Former President Bill Clinton has stated that he believes that because of the actions of WikiLeaks, some people will lose their lives. Secretary of State, Hilary Clinton has also issued statements admitting that Assange has committed a crime against the United States.
Julian Assange believes that he did nothing wrong. He even gave a statement to the Times Magazine saying that Hilary Clinton should quit her job because of the espionage and spying on diplomats. Assange released this information because he had connections and had the intelligence to get this information. His leaks or secrets haven’t been proved wrong either. From the New York Times, David Brooks comments that “far from respecting authority, Assange seems to be an old-fashioned anarchist who believes that all ruling institutions are corrupt and public pronouncements are lies.” Looking through our history books, doesn’t there seem to be a repetition? Since the beginning on our country, we’ve seen treason, scandals, and terrorism repeat itself. If what Assange is leaking is all true, doesn’t the American public have a right to know what their government is doing?
Tuesday, December 7, 2010
By Salvatore Guardino
Barrack Obama’s campaigning during the month of October was not an act of desperation, nor one of strength. He wanted to get sympathy for the Democratic Party. His primary objective was to make the Republicans look as bad as possible, and make the Democrats look like the underdogs. This effort was futile though as the Republicans took the majority in Congress after the 2010 elections. Thus we need the “Slurpee Summit” to lay the problems between the two parties out on the table.
The name “Slurpee Summit” is the unofficial name of the first of many meetings between the GOP leaders, the President and Democrats. The Summit was given its name as a result of the President’s motto-like statement during the campaign. He made the analogy that the Republicans drove the metaphorical car of the economy into a ditch, and that the Democrats were pushing and shoving from the bottom to get the “car” out while the Republicans “stood there sipping on a Slurpee.”
Today after the meeting closed, the President called it a good start. He had this to say during a post meeting press conference, “It is no secret that we have had differences that have led us to part ways on many issues in the past. But we are Americans first and we share a responsibility of stewardship to our nation. People did not vote for gridlock.” He goes on to talk about how he hopes to have more meetings in due time with the GOP leaders. He has made the point over the past month and since the election that people did not vote for a lame-duck congress. They voted for change in the economy. Republican Senate Leader Mitch McConnell agreed that they made good progress with the President during their meeting. He states this to the press after the meeting, “We had a very frank conversation. Democrats and Republicans and the President understood what the American people had to say on Election Day very clearly.” The meeting was a change for the Republicans as this was their first large meeting as the majority in the government. They had the upper hand.
Though both sides played nice during the meeting, this in no way can signal the future. Democrats and Republicans alike agree that making a fight with someone from the opposing party is not a good way to gain support. This meeting was simply to please the American people. As long as the two opposing parties look like they plan to get things done, the American people will buy into it. This is either the start of a long process to a good economy, or a misleading beginning to an unproductive two years.
Oprah’s Favorite Things are Our Favorite Things
By Jenn Booth
Out of all the talk shows you could possibly go to, you would probably want to attend Oprah’s “Favorite Things” TV special. Since this is her last season, people were expecting something big, but definitely not to this extreme. Her recent audiences were made up of self less people who had given back to their communities and cities throughout their years. Oprah begins by switching from her black outfit to a long, red, sparkling dress. If you can picture what a screaming crowd looked like after this, then imagine what they would look like when they receive gifts after gifts.
Oprah says that “she’s saved the best for the farewell season,” and she was right. The first item she gave away was an Oprah Watch with 58 diamonds. Next, she hands out gray Tory Totes with matching flats. The Tote is worth $250 and the flats are worth $195. The Christmas Elves then proceed to give everyone a Nikon D3100 SLR camera. This was still only Part One of the show. In Part Two, each person received a sweater by Ralph Lauren with a matching blanket, sparkling Ugg Boots, a Coach bag, crystal earrings, books, hair products and four pairs of Nike running shoes. Oprah then decided that the audience should have cooking supplies like a Panini Press, as well as pans and brownie mixes. People screamed, some laughed as if it wasn’t real, and others cried. One man, was even seen down on his knees “clapping and crying as if he’d just seen the Messiah,” according to a viewer, Stacie Van Dyke.
Then the big gifts started coming. A free five year membership of Netflix was just the introduction to the 52-inch Sony Bravia LX900 3D flatscreen televisions that came down from the top of the room, complete with a blu-ray player. From KIVA.org, each audience member received a $100 gift card to start their own small business and the company will add $10 to every new loan. An iPad floated down with angel wings from the ceiling. Since it is the 25th farewell season, special t-shirts were made with workout pants, and once again, handed out.
But no one knew what was coming next. A box that had a miniature model of a cruise ship was presented by the show’s crew members. People went insane as Oprah said the words, “You are going on a seven day cruise!” The Black Eyed Peas performed at the end, and each person was able to bring home their new CD which wasn’t released until the next week. So are you wondering what the biggest present of all was? A black box with keys to the new 2012 Volkswagen Beetle that comes out in Spring. And as the crowd went wild, the show came to an end.
Many people think it is Oprah herself that gives these gifts away, when really it is the companies trying to get advertising. The companies give the show the products for free so that they can be exposed to the public since so many people watch her show. Of course it makes Oprah look like the most generous person in the world, which keeps people watching. The people who were watching at home were filled with jealousy, but we all know that they deserved the gifts for giving back. However, the brand new car part was hard to watch. It was a good end to 25 years of Oprah.
2010 Smithtown Holiday Guide
By Bianca Silva
December has officially arrived and the holiday season is in full swing. Of course, when we think holidays, we think craziness. However, amidst the bustle of our beloved and grossly overpopulated island, there are many local holiday treasures to enjoy and celebrate in holiday spirit.
Our own Smithtown West will be hosting a variety of seasonal events, specifically of the musical variety. On December 9th, 14th, 16th, and 21st, the high school band, orchestra, and chorus classes will be performing their Winter Concerts. They have worked hard all semester to perfect their performance; they’ve even missed class time to go to rehearsals. Don’t miss your chance to get tickets for an inexpensive night of music appreciation and an opportunity to support the Smithtown alumni. West will also be holding Acoustic Cafe on December 17th. It is a chance for Smithtown students to display their undiscovered musical talents. It is always entertaining to watch fellow classmates surprise everyone with their outstanding (or sometimes downright funny) performances.
Moving right down Main Street, our local theater is currently putting on the play Annie. Many local young actors and actresses will be participating. You would hardly believe they are the same kids scrambling off the buses in the neighborhood everyday--their level of professionalism is very impressive.
Up until December 8th, there will be nightly Menorah lightings to enjoy in St. James at the intersection of Lake Avenue, Moriches Road and Route 25A. It is a nice way to commemorate the Jewish tradition, even if you aren’t Jewish. The Suffolk Y Jewish Community Center will also be hosting a Circus Project Hanukkah Show with “candle lighting, dreidels, chocolate gelt, and more”, according to Smithtown.patch.com. Also, on Dec. 5, this Sunday, there will be a Latke Eating Contest at Zan's Kosher Deli. It’s sure to make for some good laughs and excellent Facebook pictures.
From Smithtown, it is a short ride to Port Jefferson if you want to enjoy the outdoor skating rink or the famous Dickens Christmas Festival. The streets are lit, lampposts dressed in evergreen festoons, and windows decorated with lively displays. Actors are dressed up in Dickens-era attire handing out goodies while a plethora of coffee shops offer something hot to drink for those less fond of the cold. Once the parade begins, however, everyone crowds the street to watch. It is definitely a great time for the whole family.
So, whether you are so busy that you feel you can hardly enjoy the holiday season, or your calendar is empty and you are looking for some holiday fun, be sure to check out the local events. Not only is there so much in our own backyards, but they are the fruits and talents of a local and personal community. Don’t miss the chance to experience the richness of the holiday season.
December has officially arrived and the holiday season is in full swing. Of course, when we think holidays, we think craziness. However, amidst the bustle of our beloved and grossly overpopulated island, there are many local holiday treasures to enjoy and celebrate in holiday spirit.
Our own Smithtown West will be hosting a variety of seasonal events, specifically of the musical variety. On December 9th, 14th, 16th, and 21st, the high school band, orchestra, and chorus classes will be performing their Winter Concerts. They have worked hard all semester to perfect their performance; they’ve even missed class time to go to rehearsals. Don’t miss your chance to get tickets for an inexpensive night of music appreciation and an opportunity to support the Smithtown alumni. West will also be holding Acoustic Cafe on December 17th. It is a chance for Smithtown students to display their undiscovered musical talents. It is always entertaining to watch fellow classmates surprise everyone with their outstanding (or sometimes downright funny) performances.
Moving right down Main Street, our local theater is currently putting on the play Annie. Many local young actors and actresses will be participating. You would hardly believe they are the same kids scrambling off the buses in the neighborhood everyday--their level of professionalism is very impressive.
Up until December 8th, there will be nightly Menorah lightings to enjoy in St. James at the intersection of Lake Avenue, Moriches Road and Route 25A. It is a nice way to commemorate the Jewish tradition, even if you aren’t Jewish. The Suffolk Y Jewish Community Center will also be hosting a Circus Project Hanukkah Show with “candle lighting, dreidels, chocolate gelt, and more”, according to Smithtown.patch.com. Also, on Dec. 5, this Sunday, there will be a Latke Eating Contest at Zan's Kosher Deli. It’s sure to make for some good laughs and excellent Facebook pictures.
From Smithtown, it is a short ride to Port Jefferson if you want to enjoy the outdoor skating rink or the famous Dickens Christmas Festival. The streets are lit, lampposts dressed in evergreen festoons, and windows decorated with lively displays. Actors are dressed up in Dickens-era attire handing out goodies while a plethora of coffee shops offer something hot to drink for those less fond of the cold. Once the parade begins, however, everyone crowds the street to watch. It is definitely a great time for the whole family.
So, whether you are so busy that you feel you can hardly enjoy the holiday season, or your calendar is empty and you are looking for some holiday fun, be sure to check out the local events. Not only is there so much in our own backyards, but they are the fruits and talents of a local and personal community. Don’t miss the chance to experience the richness of the holiday season.
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