Marshwood Times

Get a Helping Hand from a Trained Tutor

2012-01-16T15:56:00.002-05:00

By: Caleb Jones and Lance Lord

Do you ever have trouble with writing assignments but aren’t sure who to have help you out? As of January 24, 2012, there’s a new resource at Marshwood that writers will appreciate: a student-staffed writing center. “At the Writing Center any student or adult can go and talk to another writer at any stage of the writing process,” said Ms. Renee Liepold, English teacher and director of the writing center.

A writing center is a place where you can go if you are struggling with any piece of writing.. “ It’s open every period the day: first through seventh period. There will be someone in the writing center; most of the time there are multiple people available,” said Ms. Liepold.

Don’t worry if you’re wondering is these students are qualified to help with your writing. Tutors were recommended by teachers from any discipline. Once they were selected and accepted the invitation, students were trained on an early release day in December. Tutors were taught effective ways of helping students with their writing as well as what’s not appropriate when helping a student writer.

“I presented the idea to the English department and then to the administration,” said Ms. Liepold. Liepold was writing center tutor in college and when she started teaching at Erskine Academy there was already a writing center there. When she started teaching at Erskine, she became the new director.

When Ms. Liepold came to Marshwood she learned there was already a desire to start a center, but there were no means to do so. Ms. Liepold did a lot of planning and organizing and presented the idea to our school. She had a meeting with Mr. Melhorne, the principle at Marshwood High School, and Mr. Rosinski, the English department head. This year, the English department is making the Writing Center a reality.

The Writing Center will open the first day of second semester and will be available all periods of the day. There are twenty five qualified tutors. The more people come and use the Writing Center the better it will do. It can become a permanent resource for students.

Writing Center tutor Emily Peele explained, “for training, we spent the last early release day in the teacher’s room from 7:45 to 2:00 learning the best ways to effectively help people with their writing and what would not be appropriate.” Tutors also had to read packets, participate in group activities and complete a tutoring session. These tutors worked hard for their new titles.

“We hope to help as many people as possible” said Emily Peele, and “tutoring sessions may last [up to] 20 minutes, or a student may need to come back for additional sessions during the following school days.”

Everyone is welcome to check out the Writing Center, starting January 24, 2012, located in the MHS Learning Center. So take advantage of this new resource next time you’re working on an English paper, a history research project, a science lab, or anything else teachers send your way.

A “Legally” Good Show

2012-01-16T15:55:00.001-05:00

By: Jaimie Goodwin and Jasmine Ross

This spring the musical will be a production of “Legally Blonde.” The story is about Elle Woods, a Delta Nu Sorority sister, who loves wearing everything pink, including those matching handbags. She’s is girl on a mission: to impress her super hot, not so smart ex-boyfriend, Warner Huntington III.

The movie, released in 2001, was made into a musical back in 2008 and is now being performed by the students of Marshwood High School. Many students auditioned but the lead part of “Elle Woods” was given to sophomore, Isabella Etro. She has performed in many of the plays performed at the school.

The musical will be directed by Ms. Tanya West, music teacher at Marshwood High School. Ms. West has been directing all the school plays since she has been teaching at Marshwood. She feels that putting together the play will be crazy, but it will be great.

Tess Limoggio, a senior, has been a big part of the music program at Marshwood. Whether she’s performing in chorus or in the plays, she enjoys every minute of it.

“ I am playing Enid Hoopes. She’s a law student at Harvard Law School. She’s also a tree hugger and a hippie,” states senior, Tess who has appeared in most of the school’s musicals“ I practice several times a week, whether I’m memorizing lines or practicing the songs.”

“Legally Blond, the musical,” had its first rehearsal on January 9, 2012 and it was a big turn out. The actors and actresses are learning choreography as well as music.

“We had our first rehearsal last night and we read through the script. It was a lot of fun to have everyone gathered for the first time,” said Tess. “ It’s crazy and hectic but also a lot of fun. The cast becomes a family at the end of the three months we are together for rehearsing the show.”

A lot of hard work will be going into this musical and cast members would love for a big turnout at their premiere of “Legally Blond, the Musical.” Come see it on March 29, 30 and the 31 at 7 pm.. It’s going to be a rockin’ show.

Isidore Tavern Brings New Life to Downtown South Berwick

2012-01-16T15:50:00.002-05:00

By: Katelin Johnson and Jorden Mitchell

In the small town of South Berwick there is a new restaurant. Previously the building was a small gym, and it was renovated into the Isidore Tavern in less than a year. Its location, sitting at the center of town, is a great place for local business.

The Isidore Tavern is located at 18 Portland St in downtown South Berwick. With new rustic life being brought to town, the streets become more full. Plenty of parking spots line downtown South Berwick from Portland St. to Main St. The Isidore Tavern also has parking behind the building. The doors of the restaurant open at 4pm everyday. Monday through Thursday and Sunday they close at 9pm and on the weekend, Friday and Saturday, Isidore is open until 10pm.

The name of the tavern has a unique history to it. The name Isidore means “phantom ghost ship” according to the tavern’s website, where the whole history is explained. The Isidore was headed to New Orleans, and some of the crew members had horrible dreams the night before they left. The next day the remains of the ship washed up on the shores of Ogunquit. The Isidore is said to be seen in foggy, bad weather, with tattered sails and blank stares from the ghost crew members.

Along with the Isidore Taverns history, its style and variety of food creates a unique atmosphere for guests. Isidore has everything from seafood to steak, and even brick oven flatbread pizza. With reasonable prices, guests are able to taste many different styles of food. Appetizers are priced anywhere from $6 to $11 and meals range from $10 to $24. Weekends are a busy time for employees of the tavern thanks to their flat screen TVs at the bar. Sports games are always airing.

"At the Isidore Tavern you feel welcomed" said Marshwood junior, Anna Karosis. "I have eaten there three times and every time the food has been outstanding." Anna's favorite part about her experience at the tavern is the guarantee to get a delicious meal every time. Along with Anna many guests have posted on the tavern's blog of their wonderful experiences and service.

Our experience at the tavern was great. The service was friendly and welcoming, food was very presentable, and the atmosphere was fun but relaxing. The menu had an array of choices and all were reasonably priced. We enjoyed the Sobo Farmstead flat bread pizza. It was nicely placed on the plate and served in a decent amount of time. Although we didn't get dessert there were good choices like cheesecake and ice cream. With music playing in the background and chefs signing to the tunes, the night was enjoyable. We suggest if you have free time on the weekend pop over to the Isidore Tavern and taste the wonderful menu.

Photo by Katelin Johnson: the SoBo Farmstead brick oven flatbread pizza. Vine tomatoes drizzled with balsamic vinegar, fresh mozzarella, and lettuce priced at $12.

Marshwood’s One Act Play: Short but Superb

2012-01-16T15:49:00.002-05:00

By: Jeff Graunke and Ryder Schumacher

Marshwood’s one act play is approaching during this new year, and as usual, English teacher Mr. Joshua Livingston is leading the fun. The play, written by Gregory Maguire, is called “The Seven Stage a Comeback.”

The story is a takeoff from the fairy tale classic that Disney made famous, Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs. In this rendition, Snow White has left with Prince Charming and the dwarfs are lost without her. “They miss her for different reasons and they want to go see her for different reasons” said Mr. Livingston, “so they set off on this journey not really knowing what they are going to find.”

To audition for the play, students retrieved materials from Mr. Livingston which included monologues from the play. Students performed the monologue in front of the other performers onstage and then performed a scene from the play with other students. “The students are put together on stage to see how they work together and see if they need any direction” said Livingston.

One of the dwarfs will be played by Marshwood senior Lina Tullgreen, who is the singing dwarf. “The play should be interesting and fun with all the fairytale stuff in it,” said Lina Tullgreen. She hasn’t run through the whole script, but from what Mr. Livingston has told her, the play should be a hit.

One act plays differ from full length plays in multiple ways. “A one act play versus a full length play is similar to a short story versus a novel” stated Livingston. “The focus of the play is narrowed as well.”
The author of this one act play is Gregory Maguire. Maguire takes popular childhood stories and transitions them into adult books. He is most famous for taking stories and shifting perspective away from the traditional main character. Maguire wrote the novel, and now Broadway play, Wicked, which retells the story of The Wizard of Oz from the perspective of the Wicked Witch of the West.

Marshwood’s one act play, “The Seven Stage a Comeback,”will be performed at 7:00 p.m. on Friday March 2nd, and 7:00 p.m. the following Wednesday, March 14th. In addition, Marshwood will be hosting the One Act Play Festival the following weekend where nine other schools will be performing their plays in a competition.

Tickets for the play will be three dollars at the door, and all are invited to witness some one act magic.

Is Batman: Arkham City the Game to Play this Year?

2012-01-16T15:49:00.001-05:00

By: Brandon Lebel and Mike Woodman

Batman: Arkham City is the sequel to Arkham Asylum, one of the top games of 2009. Will the new Batman release be as good or better than the first?

People playing this game have a lot to look forward. A montage of villains were thrown into this game to keep the gamer interested. Various Supervillains and Superheroes in the game include: Joker, Bane, Mr. Freeze, Two-Face, Poison Ivy, Robin, Nightwing and Catwoman.

At the beginning of the game you start off as Bruce Wayne, otherwise known as Batman. Right at the start you are attacked by a group of men sent by Hugo Strange, the creator of Arkham City. Your first task is to escape from Arkham City and retrieve your Batman suit. After putting on the Batsuit you have to go save Catwoman from being executed by Two-Face. Once rescued there is an assassination attempt on her life, so you must discover who her assassin is.

This is the point when you start learning about all of the gadgets that Batman has.The evidence scanner is the first gadget you use. You must scan around and find evidence of who tried to kill Catwoman. As you might have guessed, it was the Joker. Now you must track him down and try to figure out what is going on. After tracking down the Joker you discover that he has a very serious illness and will die without a cure. Of course the Joker cannot attain it himself, so he gets Batman to do it for him. If you’re wondering how he does it, you’ll just have to play the game for yourself.

Aside from the evidence scanner, there are many other interesting gadgets. Including the Batarang and all its variations, Ice blast, REC and more. Each gadget is and can be used to solve the many puzzles throughout the game.

In addition to the remarkable storyline of Arkham City, side missions are a huge part of the game play. In almost all places in the game you can acquire side missions to further level up Batman and get achievements. Along with the story of the game comes addicting combat play. “The combat and side missions are what keep me playing this game,” said Alvaro Villagro, a player of Arkham City.

Throughout all the major gaming reviews Batman does not disappoint. International Gaming Network, or IGN, gave the game a 9.5 out of 10, and GameSpot gave it a 9 out of 10. “I’d give the game a solid 9.5,” said Alvaro. Overall this game has seemed to catch gamers’attention. Whether it’s the combative techniques of the game or the must-play story and side missions, this game is no doubt one of the top games released so far this year.

Marshwood Late Work Policies: Equity for All?

2012-01-01T17:57:00.001-05:00

by Kayla Rackley

Do you ever have a hard time remembering late work policies for different classes? You’re not alone. Many students agree that the several policies in the school make it difficult to know if it’s okay to turn in late work.

Some teachers allow students to turn in work with points deducted each day after the due date, and other teachers don’t accept work at all after the day it’s due. This can be confusing for students and some don’t even turn in late work because they’re not sure it will be accepted.

If there was a school wide late work policy, more students would turn in work because they would know the one policy. Remembering one policy would be a lot easier than several policies, which can be very confusing.

Mrs. Judy Watts, an English and Latin teacher at Marshwood, agrees that there should be a school wide policy and “if there is one policy, it’s easier to remember!” This would make students more successful. Marshwood junior Reggie Muchemore suggested that “the departments in the school each have their own policies.” This would make grading at least more equal for students.

Current policies vary from teacher to teacher, and when you look in both the Parent/Student Handbook and the Faculty Handbook, there is nothing written about late work. Marshwood junior Emily Peele believes “this is not fair because some students could get a better grade if they have a teacher that accepts late work.”

For example, if two students are taking the same course with different teachers, one who accepts late work and one who doesn’t, a student with the teacher who accepts late work can potentially get a better grade in the class. This is because if one student can turn in late work, that student will be able to receive credit for their work even when it’s late, when the other student will receive a zero, potentially lowering their grade. This is unfair for students.

Some students may decide that they want certain teachers over others because of the late work policies, but can you blame them? Marshwood needs a school wide late work policy because students deserve equal opportunities.

Marshwood Athletics: See What all the Hype is About!

2012-01-01T17:39:00.001-05:00

by Derek Johnson

Marshwood hasn’t been known for its strong athletics for roughly twenty years, but it seems that the teams are turning around. With the field hockey team coming off a state title run that just fell short, and all the excitement for the basketball and hockey teams (along with lacrosse and baseball/softball in the spring), the winter and spring seasons should be a turn of events.

Because of the wide success of last year’s athletic seasons, a lot of anticipation is felt by students and our community. Last year, boys soccer, boys basketball, ice hockey, boys and girls lacrosse, and baseball teams all made their way to the playoffs. Making it to the playoffs is a great accomplishment.

Since boys soccer fell short at the quarter finals this year and the field hockey team made it all the way to the state championship game, you can only imagine the anticipation for the winter athletics. One man that believes in the opportunities for success is the school’s Athletic Director, Mr. Rich Buzzell.

Mr. Buzzell believes that success may not be measured in wins and losses, but he does have high expectations when it comes to commitment. “The expectation for this year’s teams are the same as they were last year, and the year before that. We expect all of our kids to give 100% of their time and effort and energy to their teams when they are with them and to always put their team and teammates above their individual needs.”

Off season workouts and commitment are the keys to success, according to Mr. Buzzell. “I would say just don't show up day one and hope things are going to happen. Off season work in the weight room and working on conditioning will only enhance athletic abilities. Always putting the team’s needs in front of your own needs will also have a hand in ensuring success for the greater good.”

One man that knows what Mr. Buzzell is talking about is the co-captain of Marshwood’s boys basketball team, Matt Crosby. The 6’ 3” senior has been playing varsity basketball for four years, and this isn’t because of his great personality. Matt is a great example of what hard work and commitment can do to those who pursue it, He’s leading the Hawks, along with teammate Jack Verrill, with a promising 3-1 record.

Matt said about the Hawks compared to other Class A contenders, “I think that we are one of the stronger programs in the SMAA. As I watch other teams compete I see us as one of the more serious teams, where we don't fool around while we are on the court, or before the games in the locker rooms.” Crosby has noticed the strong commitment of his teammates, and feels that they have “all the right tools to make a deep run in the playoffs.”

Marshwood’s athletics all around are becoming a powerhouse. So, bring your friends, and go to the next game to see for yourself!

Marshwood Student Government Voices Student Concerns: Advocates for Better Food

2012-01-01T17:25:00.000-05:00

by Ryder Schumacher

The student government at Marshwood High School is striving toward expanding the food inventory in the cafeteria.

Some of the potential new foods that may introduced are chips and salsa, tacos, burritos, fizz ed soda, and fruit salad. These foods were suggested by students during a poll taken by forty percent of the student body, which was given during advisory by members of student government.

The process of getting new food items into the high school cafeteria relies on how well the food items will sell. “Some of the new foods can be introduced very easily, like a fruit salad. If we present the food administrator with proof that a new product will sell, then he'll most likely place it on the next ordering cycle, meaning it would be introduced on the next food shipment,” said junior student government member Cody Furbish.

Not only does student government aim to bring new foods to the cafeteria, but they also are trying to bring the prices of the salad bar down.

“We are working to bring the price of the salad bar down, but it is complicated” said Furbish, adding “seventy percent of the polled student body said they'd buy from the salad bar if it was cheaper. That is good for our cause.”

Student government has also expressed interest in the school acquiring healthier foods which was reinforced the poll that was taken in select advisories.

“We have some healthy food in the cafeteria, but I think we need much more” stated senior Madison Gilbert. “Right now all the unhealthy foods are cheap and the healthier foods are expensive; it definitely needs to change.”

Student government is confident that new and improved foods will be circulating through the cafeteria by the end of this year, hopefully in time for leaving seniors to have a taste.

Marshwood Girl’s Varsity Basketball

2012-01-01T17:15:00.000-05:00

by Jorden Mitchell

Walking into Marshwood High School’s gym you will see a set of names on the wall. On one side of the board is boy’s varsity and on the other it’s the girl’s varsity. Having your name up on that board means a lot, but what people don’t realize is how hard it is to get your name up there.

The girl’s varsity basketball program has ten returning players this season. The team is made up of six seniors: Ali Bartlett, Aubrey Folger, Nicole Lachance, Jorden Mitchell, Kayla Rackley, and Tatum Schladenhauffen. The juniors are Hannah Ferguson, Jillian Gori, Abby Hyson, and Alli Schoff. Finishing the team is new member, sophomore Johnna Kashmer and freshman, Megan Mclean.

The team’s coach is Mr. Lee Petrie. He is entering his eighth year coaching. In the Portland Press Herald Coach Petrie said “our game plan is push and press,” and that is exactly what this team does.

This Marshwood girl’s team is athletic and likes to run the floor and press all over the place. In the opening season game at Portland, the Hawks pressed from baseline to baseline. The team acts like it has been practicing for months when in fact it has only been three weeks since tryouts. Senior Aubrey Folger said “we’ve been playing together for so long that we just know where people are.”

One of the captains, senior Ali Bartlett, said “our team works hard” and is going to be very good this season. The home games for the month of December and January are:

Friday (12/16) vs.Scarborough,
Tuesday (12/20) vs. McAuley this is a double header with the boys varsity
Friday (12/30) vs. Chevrus.
Friday (1/6) vs. Westbrook
Tuesday( 1/10) vs. Thornton Academy

Come out and support the girl’s varsity!

What Marshwood Seniors Should Expect Approaching Midterms in Electives

2012-01-01T17:05:00.001-05:00

by Katelin Johnson

Every year students at Marshwood High School dread mid-terms and finals, but what are those tests actually used for? Many students believe that the tests show the teachers how much the students have learned. Although this is true, there are many other important reasons we take these tests.

Principal Paul Melhorn stated, “mid-term exams are used to provide information back to students to show what they have learned and their ability to apply their knowledge.” As well as showing the students what they have learned it is also important “feedback” for teachers, said Mr. Melhorn.

For the past five years seniors have had the privilege to opt out of second semester elective finals if they had an A average in the course and the instructor’s approval. “This is a bonus to seniors” said Crime and Justice teacher Mr. Micheal Zamarchi.

The structure of mid-terms is closed campus, meaning students are not allowed to leave school after their exams. The reason for closed campus is to “keep focus,” said Mr. Melhorn. Because mid-terms are closed campus, seniors taking electives, if able to opt out because of their high grade, would not have anything to do for that period. This may cause students to lose focus during the exam day.

Students question the equity of administration’s reasoning. If the reason for seniors taking midterm electives is because they need to stay focused, then the rule should be the same for seniors to stay focused during the final exam week too.

Marshwood senior Stephanie Goodwin said “if you get an A in the class you’ve already shown you know the material.” While this is true, Mr. Zamarchi said that “if a student is getting an A in the class, then the mid-term should be easy for them. It shouldn’t be a big deal.”

Mid-terms are coming up fast for Marshwood students including seniors. But seniors have bigger issues, such as college planning, to worrying about. So look at mid-terms with optimism seniors; it’s half way to graduation!

Twelve Goals. Two Games.

2012-01-01T16:54:00.001-05:00

by Brandon Lebel

Hockey is a low scoring game right? Tell that to the Marshwood hockey team.

Marshwood has some high expectations for this year’s hockey season after making the playoffs last year. With players returning from last year, including a leading goal scorer, sophomore Peter Lajeunesse, the team’s high expectations are very realistic. In the first two games of the 2011-2012 season Marshwood scored twelve goals, and only gave up four.

The first game of the season was against Gorham. The team started off slow, but in the second period scoring ensued. The final score of the game was 6 - 4, Marshwood. South Portland was their second opponent, and are even bigger than Gorham. It didn’t matter though; once Marshwood scored in the first period they never stopped. Six goals and one hour later, the game was over and Marshwood won, with a shutout from Senior goalie Kyle Hitchens.

The next day Corey Wright said, “we are looking pretty good, and we’re shootin’ for a playoff spot!”

These wins wouldn’t have been possible if it wasn’t for the hard work put in by these players. They practice before school even starts! Practice starts at 5:45am and goes until 7:00am at the Dover Ice Arena. Then players head off to school.

Marshwood has to continue to play hard because they have some difficult games ahead. They have to play Thornton, Falmouth, and the infamous Chevrus on senior night. Senior night is the last home game of the regular season where all the seniors start and play their last home game. Marshwood beat Chevrus in the playoffs last year.

Mr. Eric Royal, the team’s head coach, has only ever coached this team, yet he is more than qualified to be coaching. He went to Spaulding and set multiple records. He played at UNH, a Division I school, and after college he went to Europe to play in a semi-pro league.

Marshwood has their work cut out for them this year, but if they continue to play as a team, they have the potential to go all the way.

5.9oz or 5lbs: Which Would You Rather Carry?

2012-01-01T16:45:00.000-05:00

by Jazzy Ross

E-books are small, electronic libraries which can allow students to read their textbooks as well as books in PDF format without having to carry paper copies around. Books can be read on the Nook, Kindle, iPad, eReader or even on the computer.

Most tablets have a battery life of up to a month, can hold up to 1,200 book,s and fit into a pocket, but the best thing? Its weight is only about 5.9 oz.

When you compare the size of an e-book with the weight and size of a textbook, which can weigh anywhere around 5 lbs, it just seems more logical to invest in electronic books. Especially when most students bring home more than two textbooks a day which gets heavy real quick.

Some might be concerned that the e-books might cause a decrease in library funds and close, but libraries are “forever.” They’re needed to help people find information and they’ve always been able to adapt to new technology.

“Public libraries will not be affected by the advancement of e-books. Libraries are known for adapting to all kinds of new technologies and already offer free e-books on the web,” said Mrs. Cynthia Bufithis, Marshwood High School librarian. “Libraries are also a great gathering place for people of all different back rounds.”

Libraries have adapted by starting an online library which makes books available to citizens for borrow. The website is free and only requires that you have a library card which you can sign up for online.

The biggest problem of bringing e-books into the school would be cost. Marshwood High School has a small technology fund which makes some wonder if purchasing e-books is really worth it. But in the words of Machiavelli, “the ends justify the means.”

If each student at Marshwood, all 700 of them, were to receive eReader the price would be around $99-$150 per student or at least $70,092. That may sound like a lot, but at Marshwood Middle school at least $45,000 must be spent on student laptops alone, not to mention the cost of replacing them.

It would definitely be expensive to purchase digital textbooks. The books would need to be updated and bought in the PDF format. The good thing about having “e-textbooks” would be that students would not lose their books or have reason to bring the wrong book or leave it in their locker.

It would also help to lessen the load that students carry around everyday to school and home. Students wouldn’t need to make as many visits to their lockers or complain about the need for a backpack.

“Information comes in a variety of formats and e-books just provide another venue for finding that information” said Mrs. Bufithis.

E-books are the future of textbooks and allow for easier access to books and reading material. It’s fast and simple, just the way students like their information.

Hawks Hoops Soar

2012-01-01T16:27:00.000-05:00

by Caleb Jones

The NBA season began late this year due to the lockout. Many of you have missed basketball for a while, but Marshwood boy’s varsity basketball team is already into their season.

The Marshwood boy’s varsity basketball team is looking good so far. They have already played three scrimmages. Two of those scrimmages ended in victory for the Hawks. These two games were against Dover and Brunswick. The only loss in the preseason for the Hawks was against York. Even though it was a loss the boys played a great game and took it to overtime with York. That’s great considering York made it to the the second round of the playoffs last year.

There is a lot of talent on the boy’s basketball team this year. “Matt Crosby and Jack Verrill both lead scoring and rebounding in the last few years for us, and they’re also the most experienced on our team,” said Mike Zamarchi, head coach of the boys varsity basketball team. “Troy Pappas is playing well this year, and he’s kind of like our sixth man out there. Luke Fernandez is another senior and he’s a great leader and role model for the younger kids,” explained Zamarchi.

Coach Zamarchi also said that Dani Veino, a guard, is fun to watch because he’s always hustling and is one of the team’s strong outside shooters. Other players to watch are: Brady Dodge, who moved here from Noble this year, Brady Innes, Robert Jones, Jack Letellier, Alex McLean, and Reggie Muchmore.

One disadvantage that most Marshwood sports teams have is that the teams they play are from bigger schools or from cities with large populations like Deering, Portland, Scarborough, Bonny Eagle, Cony, and Bangor. This allows for the other teams to have more big and strong players because they have such a larger selection of athletes to choose from. “So we’re going to need to get tougher physically, play defense and rebound, and we should be fine,” said Coach Zamarchi.

“There are a lot of good teams, and a lot of very in the teams in the league. There’s sixteen teams in the league, and we could finish anywhere from eighth to the top. I think we’re in the top of the league, but we’ve got a lot of work to do. I have a good feeling and if we keep playing like we’ve been playing we should be fine,” said Coach Zamarchi.

Six foot three, one hundred eighty five pound Matthew Crosby, a shooting guard for the Hawks, said, “I want to work on getting better ball handling, better defensive skills, and work on my rebounding.”

Zamarchi also said that the team’s goal is to make it to the tournament which is the playoffs. “Once we make the tournament anything can happen,” said Coach Zamarchi. Crosby also said, “I want to make it to the playoffs. Once we’re there, and the way we’re playing, I believe we can get to the state finals.”

The team’s hopes are high and their efforts are great. Help support these boys’ hard work and determination by showing up to the games. They would really appreciate the support.

Marshwood Seniors Not Allowed Open Campus

2012-01-01T16:02:00.001-05:00

by Jaimie Goodwin

About ten years ago, Marshwood allowed seniors to either arrive late or leave early if he or she had first or seventh period free. Currently, Marshwood High School does not allow seniors to arrive late or get dismissed early from school, unless a note is written by a parent or guardian. Student are also not allowed to leave the school and return during lunch. Marshwood seniors should have the privilege to be tardy, leave during lunch, and be dismissed early via an open campus.

One reason students do not have open campus is because there may be the chance of car accidents occurring during the school day. Assistant Principal Mrs. Kelly Glynn explained that when students get on the bus and arrive at school, the student is Mrs. Glynn’s and the administration’s responsibility. Even though there has not been a record of car accidents, seniors may be running late and speeding to get back to school in time for class.

Mrs. Glynn has a point about the students being under her watch, but drivers might be more careful if they realized this is a reason why students don’t have open campus.

If there was open campus, a student could leaves for lunch to get a healthier lunch than what the school can provide. According to a research article performed by Roland Strum in 2008, “The food environment surrounding schools could easily negate school food policies and health education in the classroom, especially in high schools with an open campus policy that allows students to leave campus during their lunch break.” Most schools don’t provide healthy options. Students should have more of a variety for lunch like, fresh fruit, real meat, and healthier chips. Students could get these options if they were allowed open campus.

According to Officer Jeff Upton the closed-campus philosophy is, “once you’re here in the education environment you’re here to learn. Once you leave you’re in relaxation” mode. Officer Upton believes there’s a difference between being in school and learning compared to being outside of school. When a student is off campus they’re ready to relax learning is disrupted.

A Marshwood graduate thought, “the academics at Marshwood would improve if the school board allowed students with a certain GPA to leave and arrive late at school for lunch.” The seniors would put more time into learning and doing well if they knew they were going to be rewarded.

Currently, students’ parents write notes that allow them to leave early and be dismissed throughout the day, but these notes must be written every time a student arrives late or is dismissed to avoid an unexcused pink slip. One senior said "I don't think it’s a big deal because I have seventh period study hall and can get dismissed early if I want to.”

Although seniors at Marshwood High School do not have permission to leave through out the day now, perhaps the administration is willing to hear more suggestions on how to improve the situation.

Marshwood Fans Losing Cheer Power

2012-01-01T15:44:00.001-05:00

by Jeff Graunke

Marshwood’s fans, as of fall 2011, have new rules on how they can cheer for our sports teams. These rules have been set by the Maine Principals Association, the MPA, and our athletic director Mr. Rich Buzzell. The rules MHS students have seen in the last few weeks were taken directly from the MPA’s website.

At Marshwood sporting events, there are a lot of new rules. For example, there are no artificial noisemakers allowed at any indoor event, such as cowbells, drums, or air-horns. There should be no taunting the other team or flaunting victory. Rules directly from the MPA’s brochure, sent to MHS students via email, include “do not try to disrupt foul shots or penalty shots” or “commit any act that would embarrass your school, its coaches, or its players.” Mr. Buzzell said, “I think the biggest thing that I want people to realize is that it’s about the game and not what’s going on in the stands.”

The school has set up a card system for the consequences of breaking the MPA’s rules. A yellow card is just a warning. If a fan receives two yellow cards and he or she will be ejected from the sporting event. A red card is an immediate ejection. There is also a green card. This card is for showing good sportsmanship. The green card will get you a food and drink of choice at the concession stand. Mr. Buzzell or MHS teachers at the game are responsible for handing out these cards.

At an assembly in December, Mr. Buzzell explained that these MPA rules are being enforced partially because of a Marshwood basketball game in the winter of 2009. The Hawks were playing Sanford at home. Someone in the student section had an air-horn. An official came over and asked the fans who had the air-horn, and no one responded. Because no one gave away the person with the air-horn, the entire student section was forced to leave the game. Without fans, a team’s morale can go down and can actually cause them to lose.

The students of MHS have some negative feelings about these rules. Senior Mitch Lehman said “I think we are too old to have rules on how to cheer for our team.” At a recent Marshwood basketball game there were still multiple cases of chanting crude things and yelling as players were taking foul shots. So are these rules working?

Naviance Extends Beyond Senior Use

2012-01-01T15:19:00.001-05:00

by Ryder Schumacher

Sophomores at Marshwood High School have begun using the Naviance system in conjunction with the 10th grade career project. This is the first time that underclassmen have had access to Naviance.

“Since the system was new this year we had it available to seniors for the college application process” guidance counselor Ms. Lindsay Edson said. “However, now sophomores are using their Naviance accounts for their career projects and will hold those accounts until their senior year.”

The new trend is also building a pathway for Naviance to be used for up and coming high school students. Ms. Edson stated, “eventually all four years, including freshmen students, will have an account that they will be able to access up until their senior year.”

Sophomore English teachers, such as Mr.Luke Edgar, feel that sophomores using Naviance is drastically improving their career projects. “Naviance adds weight and credibility to the career project” said Mr. Edgar. “Since many of these sophomores will use the site to apply to college, they are motivated to learn the ins and outs of the site. Additionally, students use this site to create their resume, find potential colleges, and investigate their career interest.”

Sophomores will continue to use Naviance to help with career projects in the years to come, and when those career projects are finished, they will have an even bigger project they will be using the Naviance system for: the college application process.

Jones and Ricker: Marshwood Senior Captains

2012-01-01T15:16:00.000-05:00

by Lance T. Lord

This year Marshwood was introduced to new wrestling team captains including Caleb Jones, who is wrestling for his sixth year, and Nick Ricker, who’s going on his fifth year as a part of Marshwood wrestling. Seniors Ricker and Jones will be leading their teams through their last year as MHS wrestlers.

Wrestling is a sport in which you try to control your opponent’s body while also controlling your own. Throughout the season each wrestler has about “30 to 35 matches” according to captain Caleb Jones. The more you win the better you do. The Marshwood wrestling team works and trains very hard. Together Marshwood wrestlers form bonds, especially with their coaches: Matt Rix, Patrick Howard, Todd Hughes and Tom Howarth.

Captains Caleb Jones and Nick Ricker share similar feelings and excitement about what this season has in store. Caleb Jones said he’s excited “to see how things will pan out the rest of the year.” And Nick Ricker looks forward to a, “very rewarding wrestling season. My freshman year we didn’t win a single meet, and I had nine wins and eleven losses. Both the team and I have made a nice turnaround. We are in the running and are projected to be possible state champions. And I am only 23 wins away from 100 wins, which is a milestone for any high school wrestler.”

Last year Ricker took 2nd place in the 215 weight class. Ricker explained that his wrestling season “never really ended. From that first practice my freshman year until even now. It never ends. In the off season coach texts me and tells me to get in the weight room and go to freestyle wrestling practices and things like that. He is really good at getting on us and making sure we make the right decisions.”

The most memorable moment for Caleb Jones in wrestling was the hotel before states because the wrestling team all had a blast all night. Nick Ricker’s most memorable moment was, “pulling an upset at states last year and getting second.”

Hearing stories from team captains Jones and Ricker made it clear how much fun wrestling can be and how much an individual wrestler can accomplish. The team can teach Marshwood students how hard work pays off and that any goal can be achieved as long as you work together and never give up. Go Marshwood Wrestling!

Wrestling is Back in Action

2011-12-01T17:44:00.000-05:00

By Mike Woodman

Marshwood wrestling is back starting Monday, November 21st for another season. Expectations are high after last year’s successes with two State Champions. Many of last year’s varsity players are returning this season.

The captains for this year are Caleb Jones, Nick Ricker, and Jake Barisano. Senior Captain Caleb Jones has high hopes for the team this year and explained “if we work hard and devote ourselves, we can reach our goals.”

Caleb Jones also gave a heads up on key contenders for States this year. The promising athletes are: Tyler Davidson at 113 lbs; Trevor Smith at 126 lbs; Cody Hughes, a freshman this year with high expectations, at 138 lbs; Caleb Jones at 145 lbs; Ryan Stacy at 152 lbs; Jake Barisano at 185 lbs; and Nick Ricker at heavy weight. Caleb said “personally I think we’re going to win a Class A State Title this year.” Cody Hughes is a freshman this year and his teammates have high hopes for him too.

The wrestling team’s first preseason tournament is in Goffstown, New Hampshire. States will be held at Windham High School and New Englands are most likely going to be in New Haven, Connecticut again. The first big meet this year is on December 14th against Noble here at Marshwood, so come support Marshwood’s wrestling team and show your school pride!

Many Factors Affect Elective Selection

2011-12-01T17:31:00.001-05:00

By Kayla Rackley

Have you ever been interested in a class, but you aren’t able to get in? The scheduling process at Marshwood High School is a big factor in this, and many students don’t realize that. Mrs. Jeanne Houde, the school’s guidance administrative assistant, takes care of all the scheduling for Marshwood, which takes about four months to do, starting in February and ending in May.

Students have complained about certain electives they have been placed in over others, and Mrs. Houde said this is because “if (the student) has requested “Intro to Foods” and “Film Studies” per se, and they both meet at the same time, “Film Studies” will most likely be placed first because it is fulfilling a graduation requirement: English.” Also, the computer bases its selection on whether the student can fit the elective into their schedule or not.

A lot of students believe that seniors are not getting into classes over underclassmen, but this is not the case. It may seem so, but if students try to change their schedule after the master schedule has been made, seniors will not be placed in classes if they are full, even if there are underclassmen in the class.

Seniors are given priority to classes, and senior Jorden Mitchell thinks this is good because “we’ve been here the longest. We should be able to be in the classes we want.” Another issue with scheduling electives is that teachers have to be placed with the core requirements before elective classes can be scheduled. This can affect how many classes of a certain elective are available, limiting the amount of students able to take the class.

Of course, some classes are very popular, and there are just so many periods in a day. So next time you try to get into a class and are not able to, think about the factors that affect class selection and scheduling.

Learn About the Body and How it Works in Anatomy

2011-12-01T17:25:00.001-05:00

By Jorden Mitchell

Have you ever been interested in learning about the inner workings of your body? Do you want to learn about how the heart works or even learn about the different bones in your body? Then you should take Anatomy.

Anatomy is a senior science elective, taught by Mr. Vincent Johnson. Biology is a prerequisite for the anatomy class at Marshwood. In some cases, juniors can take the class as long as he or she is enrolled in biology.

Mr. Johnson’s syllabus explains what students will be learn in Anatomy. It includes everything from homework to what units will be covered. There are many skills students will have by the time they finish the class such as being able to “label the parts of the brain”.

Homework is given in this class. It usually consists of reading out of the text book, taking notes, and finishing in class assignments. Labs are also completed in Anatomy like in chemistry and biology. The labs in Anatomy are not always dissections. One lab requires students to test their physical reaction time.

The class teaches the students the inner workings of the body. This includes everything from skin, sweat glands, hair follicles to how the heart works. Also different bones and muscles. Senior, Jacque Tworkowski said she “loves Mr. Johnson as a teacher and the class isn’t abnormally hard.”

Anatomy takes a lot of work and a lot of study time. If students are interested in taking Anatomy as a senior they should talk to their guidance counselors. This class isn’t just for students who are interested in going into the medical field. It can be fun for everyone.

The Jungle Book: After the Remix

2011-12-01T17:00:00.000-05:00

By Jazzy Ross

One month, 19 days and a few extra hours filled with hard work: that's the approximate time that the cast and director, Ms. Tanya West or Marshwood High School spent working on their production of “The Jungle Book.”

“The Jungle Book” is the story of young Mowgli, an orphaned boy who lives in the jungle. He is safe and happy until one day it is rumored in the jungles that the feared tiger Shere Khan is coming to kill him.

Mowgli’s guardian jungle cat, Bagheera, takes him from his home and tries to take him back to the man village when they meet Baloo, a big, fun ball of bear. Baloo wants to take care of Mowgli and thinks he can keep him safe from Shere Khan until Shere Khan actually shows up.

It’s a great story for kids and parents of all ages and because it is a district play, the production consisted of students of all ages ranging from third through twelfth grade.

Those who participated in the play, such as senior Emily Beaudette, otherwise known as Fuzzy the vulture, described the play as “going great, I love acting and singing!”

Viewers have also given great reviews using words such as “fun,” “quirky,” and “different.” Those who went to see the play ranged in ages from young children to parents and grandparents.

Although the play was based on the classic Disney film it was also quite different because it featured an act called “The Jungle Remix”.

Now, what is the Jungle Remix? It’s an updated, modern hip-hop version of the first half. It features students like Aaron Fletcher, who played Shere Khan, rapping to the beat of “Trust in Me” and getting his groove on.

The Jungle Book was junior Sydney Porter’s first district play. She said, “the remix is really fun! It’s a great addition to the show and the whole cast loves trying something new.”

Unfortunately the play is no longer on stage but if you missed it or saw it and loved it then get ready for the next play which will be in April of 2012. Either way we should all congratulate the cast on a job well done.

College Bound?

2011-12-01T15:47:00.000-05:00

By Caleb Jones

Seniors: are you sick of all the paper work that you have to fill out and send to colleges or how applications sit in mail rooms for such a long time? Before Marshwood used Naviance students had to fill out applications and get recommendations on paper. Students also had to complete a resume on paper. Now this college admissions process is available on Naviance.

The guidance department found a website that will take care of the paper problem. Mrs. Lindsay Edson, guidance counselor at Marshwood High School, said “I worked at Salem High School in New Hampshire. I worked there four years ago and they had Naviance.” Mrs. Edson loved the program and when she came to Marshwood she encouraged the guidance department to implement the Naviance program.

“There’s a lot of work in putting it together. We upload all of our students’ information including GPAs, transcripts, SAT scores and more. It’s really individualized to you students,” said Mrs. Edson. Throughout the years at Marshwood the guidance counselors will add more information to Naviance for each student. “Every year Naviance shifts a little bit, so we are constantly updating it with the correct info,” said Mrs. Edson.

There are a lot of things the guidance department can do with Naviance. They decide what the students will have available on their profiles. “We can turn things on and off for you guys... and things like the resume and college applications make it have speed and accuracy for the colleges to receive information. Before, we mailed info. and it just sat in the mail rooms. So, immediately through Naviance, we can upload info. and the colleges will get it right away,” said Mrs. Edson.

The guidance department has also been trying to incorporate other students in the Naviance program rather than just seniors. “We’ve been using it a lot ,and we’ve been sending everything online with no problem. Right now we’re using it for the sophomore career projects and having them do some stuff like the resume and add some colleges. We also plan to go into junior class advisories in January and introduce Naviance, and by the end of the year the freshman class will also be somehow using Naviance,” said Mrs. Edson.

The program is easy to use and gives students everything they need to apply to colleges. “It’s extremely easier to use than filling papers, and I feel like it’s a lot faster to use than on paper because it’s all electronic. It wasn’t too difficult, but there was a lot of stuff to do. If you work around all that, it’s easy,” said senior Ryder Schumacher. If you haven’t checked out Naviance, you’ll be using it before the school year ends. It’s so easy and so quick. Log on and give it a try.

Students at Marshwood High School do Their Part

2011-12-01T15:29:00.000-05:00

By Katelin Johnson

Students and teachers at Marshwood enter into a clean school every morning: floors washed, bathrooms clean, windows crystal clear. How can four night custodians do all of these chores by themselves?

For years budgets have been tough in our district. Many teachers have lost their jobs, programs have been cut, and even the custodians have lost some of their co-workers due to budget cuts. Marshwood’s head custodian Pete Gitschier explained that “because of cuts in the school system, there used to be five night custodians and now there are only four.”

During the school day at Marshwood most students have a study hall or two. Some students cram for exams while others twiddle their thumbs. At Marshwood High School there is no need to be bored during study hall “We can always find something for a student to help us with” said Gitschier.

Over the years students have shown their respect towards the school by helping out with the custodians’ tasks during the day. With students helping during the day with the small tasks like cleaning windows, sweeping floors, and cleaning up trash outside, Gitschier said “it helps the night custodians focus on the larger jobs.”

Students are able to use the time they spend helping out as community service hours for their graduation requirement. Students also have the opportunity to apply for summer jobs with the custodians.

Marshwood’s school resource officer, Jeff Upton, has noticed the impact that this community service has had on the school. Not only does it impact the school, it also affects the students and “teaches them to appreciate and respect their school” said Officer Upton.

Marshwood is a unique. Many schools struggle with vandalism and student behavior, but at Marshwood these troubles are scarce. Students have profoundly represented Marshwood through their actions and have created the quality of this school.

Custodian Pete Gitschier encouraged students “if you’re ever bored, come see the janitors and we will give you something to do. Don’t wait until the last minute to complete your community service hours. There is plenty of work to be done now; help is always needed.”

Tower Heist: Towerific or Towerful?

2011-12-01T15:10:00.000-05:00

by Derek Johnson

Ben Stiller, along with Eddie Murphy and Casey Affleck, leads the charge in Tower Heist, a crime filled comedy about the measures taken to instill revenge. In this universal picture directed by Brett Ratner (who also directed Rush Hour 3 and hit TV series Prison Break), Ben Stiller plays a New York City hotel manager named Josh Kovaks. Casey Affleck plays Charlie, a lower end middle class tenant in Kovaks’ hotel, and Eddie Murphy plays a classic street thug known as Slide.

Kovaks likes to be acquainted with the guests at his prestigious hotel, and he becomes especially acquainted with a wealthy tenant, Arthur Shaw (played by Alan Alda). Alda plays the untrustworthy, greedy financier that should never be trusted. Kovaks asks a favor of Shaw, unknowingly getting himself into more trouble than he can handle.

Through the comical mayhem that has always seemed to follow Stiller in his previous motion pictures (such as Madagascar or Night at the Museum), one thing leads to another, and Kovaks is left jobless; all because of Shaw and his desire for more then he already has. Left with only one choice, Kovaks, along with the help of Charlie and Slide, makes his move and goes after Shaw.

This motion picture was a very nicely directed comedy that keeps the audience on their toes. The three stooges (Stiller, Murphy, and Affleck) were a well planned addition by Ratner that added all sorts of hilarious twists and turns to the already unique, unpredictable plot. A little bit of a surprise was the character played by Murphy; Eddie is known from his previous movies (such as Shrek and Doctor Dolittle) to be the nice, funny guy that people love. This time around, Murphy plays an intimidating New York thug that no one wants to mess with. His comical personality still shows from time to time, but there is a different aura to the amusing actor. Affleck and Stiller do a great job in keeping the movie moving forward, even through a couple rough patches in the beginning.

The 104 minutes of this motion picture are those of hilarious suspense, making this movie a must see film. If given the free time on a weekend or week day, hit the theatres while there is still time. Spend the $7 and go see Tower Heist!

Aroma Joe’s in the Students’ Eyes

2011-12-01T15:02:00.001-05:00

By Brandon Lebel

Dunkin’ Donuts better watch out because there’s a new kid in town. His name is Aroma Joe’s, a small and unique coffee shop in downtown South Berwick. Aroma Joe’s moved in a little over a year ago and is located right next to the town hall and across from Central School. What makes Aroma Joe’s unique is not the different coffee flavors but their Red Bull infused drinks. That’s what draws teenagers in.

An Aroma Joe’s employee said “almost every single kid or teenager that comes in here buys a Red Bull drink. They are very popular among their generation.” Although the Red Bull drinks are popular, Aroma Joe’s also sells regular coffee shop drinks such as coffee, iced coffee, lattes, flavored tea, and hot chocolate for the kids.

The sizes of drinks vary from 12 ounces to 32 ounces on certain beverages, with a price ranging from 1.75 dollars to around 6.00 dollars. Even though the Red Bulls can be a little pricey, students continue to buy them before school, which makes one wonder, what is so great about this place?

A student at Marshwood, and a frequenter of Aroma Joe’s, Mikalah Little said “ I usually go there two or three days a week, and I buy a different Red Bull drink because I like to mix it up.” Some of the more popular flavors include blue raspberry, kiwi, raspberry, and pomegranate. These are just a few of over twenty flavors. They also have sugar free drinks.

There is still a question that lingers though. What do Marshwood students prefer: Dunkin’ Donuts or Aroma Joe’s? There was a common opinion among the students at Marshwood. Most students said “Aroma Joe’s is definitely the place to go if you want to get something to drink, but if you want to get a good breakfast then you should go to Dunkin’ Donuts.”

Mr. Johnson: The Iron Man

2011-12-01T13:13:00.000-05:00

By Jeff Graunke

Marshwood’s anatomy teacher, Mr. Vinny Johnson, ran one of the hardest races, known as an Ironman November 5, 2011 in Panama City, Florida. “To race it was the ultimate challenge” said Mr. Johnson. He really completed the Ironman for self pride and “to overcome doubt.”

According to the Ironman website, on February 18, 1978, John and Judy Collins, triathletes from California, started a Hawaiian Ironman triathlon. Now the world’s triathletes come to compete in this monster challenge. The Ironman consists of a 2.4 mile swim, a 112-mile bike ride, and a 26.2 mile run. The Ironman is held in dozens of locations from Georgia to Las Vegas. To run the Ironman you have to qualify in one of the twenty eight qualifying races.

To train for this ultimate challenge Mr. Johnson had to work out every day. He swam twenty, biked three hundred, and ran sixty miles a week. This kind of work is for no amateur. Mr. Johnson is aiming to become a licensed professional marathon runner. You have to place in the top three of the amateur competitors to be eligible for a professional license. Overall in the Ironman challenge, Mr. Johnsonh placed thirty fifth but eleventh out of the amateurs. His time was nine hours and twenty seven minutes.

Mr. Johnson enjoys marathons for one reason and that’s to see himself steadily improve. If he continues this hobby he could potentially get paid for doing something he enjoys. Congratulations Mr. Johnson on your triumph over doubt!

The Memorial Bridge: What Now?

2011-10-26T08:55:00.003-04:00

By Kelsey Stewart

For eighty-eight years the Memorial Bridge has served as a vital connection from Portsmouth, NH to Kittery, ME. Since the closing of the bridge in July both businesses and residents of surrounding areas have suffered from the loss of the bridge.

Sam Silver, a Marshwood senior and frequent user of the bridge, said the closing of the bridge has been hard. She explained, “I used the Memorial Bridge a lot. Now that it’s closed, it’s really inconvenient to have to go all the way around, not to mention the bridge was historic, a part of Portsmouth.”

On October 1, 2011 a farewell was held on the Memorial Bridge and in Prescott Park as a thank you to the communities the bridge served. Ninety three year old former Mayor, Eileen Foley was there to tie the ribbon symbolizing the closing of the bridge. As a child in 1923, five year old Foley cut the silk ribbon opening the bridge. The farewell was a celebration and a thank you that included music, food, and conversations on the bridge.

A new bridge is expected to be completed by 2014 and will cost up to 90 million dollars. The new bridge will maintain a historical look and will remain a pedestrian bridge. New Hampshire received a 20 million dollar grant to go into rebuilding the bridge. The other 70 million dollars is expected to be split between New Hampshire and Maine.

Bids to build the new bridge opened on Thursday, October 13th and the bid chosen will be based off of technical merit, scheduling, and price. The apparent team chosen to rebuild the bridge is Archer Western Contracts from Chicago, Illinois. They submitted their bid of 81.4 dollars and an estimated time of completion to be July 2013.

There is also a bid for the removal of the Memorial Bridge. The bridge will be sold in three different parts: the Portsmouth span, the Kittery span, and the lift bridge. The bridge parts will go to whoever makes the best proposal to historically preserve the bridge and there is a minimum bid of 1 million dollars.

While the citizens and business people of Kittery and Portsmouth have said their goodbyes to the Memorial Bridge, they are thankful and are looking forward to the new bridge and having the connection between Portsmouth and Kittery in place once again.

Memorial Bridge Photo: Compliments of Ms. Renee Liepold

New Texting Law Looks to Improve Driver Awareness

2011-10-22T21:23:00.002-04:00

by Ryder Schumacher

The Maine Legislature has recently added a law regarding drivers and the use of their cell phones. This law bans texting while driving, making Maine the 33rd state to do so. The law went into effect September 28th. Any driver caught texting while driving will be facing a $100 fine.

Before the texting and driving law was passed, the “Distracted Driver” law was the only piece of legislature in place that dealt with using a cell phone while driving. “We had a distracted driver la, which we still have, which was if you commit a violation like speeding or get in a crash while you were on your cell phone or changing the radio, then that’s when the distracted driving law applies” said South Berwick Police Officer Jeff Upton.

Officer Upton added “now if I see you texting with your phone on the wheel, and it appears that you’re texting, I can pull you over for that. The texting law is a primary offense.” A primary offense means one can be pulled over even if you aren’t a danger while driving.

The new law is not only limited to texting with cellphones. The Maine Legislature included in the act any “portable electronic device that is not part of the operating equipment of a motor vehicle, including but not limited to an electronic game, device for sending or receiving e-mail, text messaging device, cellular telephone and computer.”

The “Act to Prohibit Texting while Driving” was put into affect with the intent to direct drivers’ attention away from their cell phone messages and pay closer attention to the road. According to a press release Maine Governor Paul LePage said, “the intent of this bill is to improve safety for everyone using Maine roads,” and the bill is doing just that.

Teens who partake in the guilty pleasure of texting while driving will need to take into consideration the consequences of a $100 fine. One Marshwood student said “this law isn’t going to change how I text and drive. I think it will be very hard for any authority to catch me in the act.” It may be difficult to be caught texting and driving, however teens must take into consideration other drivers’ safety on behalf of their texts. The message can wait.

Marshwood High School Nutri-kids Point of Sale

2011-10-22T21:19:00.001-04:00

by Lance Lord

Have you ever lost your money for lunch? Have you ever forgotten it at home? Well, Marshwood High School has found the solution. A new policy in the Marshwood High School food department was introduced this week week. During lunch, student ID cards are going to be used as an alternative to cash. The last four numbers of each students i.d. is each students’ set PIN for everyday school lunch. The plan is to eventually no longer use cash to buy lunch. This way, students can’t use their parents money for other purposes. Also, it will increase the speed of buying lunch.

“The request for a Point Sale System here at Marshwood High School came in part by parents and the administration,” said Dennis Chagnon, Marshwood’s food service director. Chagnon explained the benefits that this swipe card offers:

When the account is prepaid parents can be sure that the students money is only being used for lunch, breakfast, or snack purchases.
Prepaid accounts allows parents to deposit money in their students account in any amount, at any time, with out concern about giving their student money every morning.
The lunch line should move fast if the money is prepaid, thus allowing students more time to eat and visit with their friends.
Parents can check their students’ account online to view the students’ purchase history. That way the parent knows the money is being used for what is was intended for.

Students gather their lunch and pay by swiping their card or entering their pin in the swipe scanner. Marshwood Student Anna Karosis shared her opinion: “I think that it’s a good idea because it would be an easier way to carry it around; even if you didn’t have your card with you, they can still look you up.”

Marshwood’s swipe card policy is moving students forward in a positive way. Chagnon explained, “colleges and universities have the student population using a swipe cards/pin number to access their meal plans that are offered through their dining services.” Marshwood High will be introduced to the new payment system this week. Now students are left with the question: will this work?

Technology Growth at Marshwood

2011-10-22T21:17:00.002-04:00

by Mike Woodman

Technology is an important aspect to everyday life in the 21st century. But is technology appropriate in everyday situations at Marshwood High School?

Like most issues, there are pros and cons to having access to technology at school. Laptops and desktops are available at the library and on C.O.W.s (computer on wheels) and there is complete access to wireless Internet throughout the building.

According to Principal Paul Mehlhorn the big costs comes from the variable: the laptops. “The cost is great,” said Mr. Mehlhorn, regarding the replacement of and fixing of laptops.

Mr. Mehlhorn also regarded that everything the school does falls back to the “Mission Statement” and Marshwood’s core values. The school decided that the pros outweighed the cons and that laptops, computers, wireless Internet, and the newly added Gmail accounts were beneficial in student learning and, “are helpful tools,” said Mr. Mehlhorn.

A problem with technology usage and demand in school is that not all students have access to technology at home. Some classes are using almost no paper at all and this makes it difficult for students without access to technology at home. The population of students is substantially larger than the number of computers and laptops at Marshwood as well.

With growing technology worldwide, computer use can be a greener, more efficient tool in school, and can also make things harder for some. For school usage the pros seem to outweigh the cons and will keep being pursued by Marshwood High School and schools nationwide.

Marshwood Announces National Merit Scholarship Commended Students

2011-10-22T21:06:00.002-04:00

by Jorden Mitchell

Marshwood High School is proud to announce that three seniors have been recognized as National Merit commended students. These students are Michael Vitorri, Aaron Slover, and Isabella Burke. They were chosen because of their above average PSAT scores, and over 1.5 million students took the PSATs. The scores are only considered for national merit when you are a junior, and according to collegeboard.com “the average Selection Index for students in eleventh grade is about 141.” Kate Pouliot, also one of the National Merit students, is still in the running to receive a scholarship as a semifinalist.

Photo by Jorden Mitchell: National Merit commended students with Principal Paul Mehlhorn

Who are Marshwood’s 2011-2012 Interns?

2011-10-22T20:59:00.002-04:00

by Kelsey Stewart

Ms. Lauren Demers

If you’ve been by Mrs. Keener’s room lately, you may have noticed a new face. Ms. Lauren Demers is one of the newest interns here at Marshwood and is working with Mrs. Keener. As an intern Ms. Demers is helping plan classes and is focusing on teaching algebra I.

Ms. Demers grew up locally and attended Dover High School where math stood out to her. She said, “I was pretty good with school but I really liked math. It was definitely my subject.” Over the summer Ms. Demers graduated with her Bachelor’s Degree in Math Education and she is currently attending UNH to earn her Master’s Degree in Education.

Eventually Demers would like to teach high school math, maybe even at Marshwood. She explained, “I really like high school math, all of it. I’ll teach any level student.” While Demers didn’t always know she wanted to be a teacher, during her sophomore year at UNH she decided teaching math was the right choice. “I was doing really well in math. A math major in education just made sense to me.”

So far Ms. Demers feels her experience here at Marshwood has been really good and if she had the opportunity to work here, she definitely would. “Marshwood is a great school. All of the students are really good here. Everyone seems to really care about how they do [academically] and everything, so I’ve had a great experience.” As far as working with Mrs. Keener Ms. Demers said, “ I think I got really lucky because she’s supportive and she’s really nice.”

If you happened to see Ms. Demers out of school you might find her with a car or a four wheeler. Beyond being a math teacher and student Ms. Demers said “I like to do anything that has to do with a fast moving object like a car, a motorcycle, a four wheeler, anything like that. That’s what I do.”

Mr. Chris Longo

Mr. Chris Longo is one of the newest interns in Marshwood’s history department. Mr. Longo is working alongside Mr. Piskura and is focusing on teaching fifth period Modern U.S. History.

Mr. Longo grew up locally and went to Somersworth High School where social studies was his favorite subject. He said, “social studies was always my favorite subject, although I prefer ‘fringe’ aspects like philosophy and psychology over the ‘required’ courses like history and economics.”

After high school Mr. Longo earned his Bachelor of Arts Degree in Philosophy and knew he wanted to be a teacher. “I went into teaching so I could help students who, like me, were not challenged by the traditional curriculum, and needed a little something extra to make school interesting.”

When he becomes a teacher, Mr. Longo would like to teach social studies at the high school level and eventually hopes to teach philosophy.

Overall, Mr. Longo has enjoyed his experience at Marshwood and working with Mr. Piskura so far. He explained, "the culture here is positive and collaborative, two things I think are essential to a successful school.” Mr. Longo feels that Mr. Piskura has been helpful in developing lesson plans and finding his own teaching style.

When Mr. Longo isn’t doing schoolwork he says enjoys playing XBOX and golfing. “I like to play XBOX 360, Madden, Call of Duty and Fable III are some of my favorite games. I also golf, when I have time, and I can afford it!”

Footloose, Worth the See?

2011-10-22T20:42:00.000-04:00

by Jazzy Ross

Footloose, directed by Herbert Ross, is the classic 80’s movie about teen angst and high school drama. There’s teenage love, a few broken rules, and a big bully.

The story starts of with Ren (Kevin Bacon) and his mother moving from the big city of Chicago to live with his aunt and uncle in a small western town called Bomont.

In his efforts to fit in Ren meets Willard (Chris Penn), a shy non-dancing guy whom Ren clicks with right from the start. When Willard informs Ren of the law prohibiting public dancing in Bomont, Ren is confused. He doesn’t understand how something so innocent could be outlawed. That is until he finds out what happened three years before.

Five kids had been at a party drinking, dancing and driving drunk when they got into a car accident and died. One of the teens was the son of Reverend Shaw (John Lithgow) and also the brother of Ariel (Lori Singer), whom Ren later falls for.

It was for this reason that the town condemned dancing, partying, drinking, and drugs. They also imposed a curfew on those under the age of eighteen.

When Ren finds out about the law against public dancing he wants to change everybody’s mind about it and plans a prom for the seniors.

The original movie was recently remade into a more modern version by director Craig Brewer and writer Dean Pitchford.

Kenny Wormald, a dancer who has appeared in works from Center Stage: Turn It Up to Mariah Carey’s “It’s Like That” music video stars as Ren MacCormick while Julianne Hough, the longtime girlfriend of Ryan Seacrest, stars as Ariel Moore. Julianne Hough has appeared in Burlesque and even Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone.

The new movie follows the exact same story line as the first and includes some of the same lines, but with a more updated language. Although, Ren (Kenny Wormald) still uses his classic phrase “step back” when he hears about the dancing regulations.

At first I was a little nervous about going to see the remake of Footloose. I wondered how they could possibly make it any better than it already was, and I was also a little worried that they would screw it up. But, anyhow, I went.

When I entered the theater I was excited, truly so, but as soon as the movie came on and I heard Ren’s bad Boston accent my entire body cringed. Nothing about this movie felt real. Sure, it made sense in the 1980’s that a strict Baptist-run community would outlaw public dancing but not in 2011.

I, myself am a senior in high school and I can’t even imagine ever having my town outlaw dancing. It just doesn’t feel like it could ever really happen.

Also, what teenager finds the time to play chicken with a school bus coated in stuffed animals? Never mind the fact that it caught on fire and blew up.

This movie was way overdone and made my prediction come true. They screwed it up. It wasn’t even just the fact that Ariel was overly promiscuous or that her boyfriend looked thirty years old, but I felt as if I were watching a soap opera.

The two movies were pretty much the same except for a few things. First of all the dancing was much better in the newer version. I enjoyed watching the dancers perform at parties and randomly whenever they felt like it.

In the newer version the music also changed. Yeah, sure, they still played those songs like the classic “Footloose” but they also added newer, upbeat music like “Dance the Night Away” by David Banner and “Walkin’ Blues” by Cee Lo Green.

So, if you’re into over-dramatized movies that make you feel all warm and cuddly inside, then I suggest you go to see this movie. But, even if you don’t, it still would be a good idea just to go and get the experience because I presume that this will only be the first remake and that many more are to come.

Marshwood Field Hockey Team Soars to the Post Season

2011-10-22T20:41:00.000-04:00

by Kayla Rackley

With eleven wins and three losses, the Marshwood varsity field hockey team has found themselves on their way to the post season. The team has been very successful because they work as a team and are always playing their “A” game, which led them to entering the quarterfinals in the number five seed.

There have been several key victories pushing the team into this number five spot. These include Portland, Kennebunk, Windham, and Bonny Eagle. The Marshwood field hockey coach, Lisa Truesdale, said that these games were so important “because these are teams we have struggled to beat in the past except for this season. This has taught the girls that they have what it takes to be successful if they choose to make it happen.”

The team’s overall goal was to make it to the post season, and they wanted to condition themselves to outlast their opponents. Senior co-captain Natalia Bachelder said this was achieved by emphasizing “cone-work, which all of us dread.” The cone-work is moving a ball with the field hockey stick around cones, which not only helps with conditioning the team, but has also been a big part in improving their stick work. This is the team’s biggest strength and has helped lead the team to several victories.

All the hard work the team has put in has led them to having Marshwood’s best field hockey record since 1994. Leading scorer Natalia Bachelder has led the hawks this season with eight goals and six assists, and senior co-captain Jacque Tworkowski has also played a huge role as the goalie for the team. Sophomore Emily Osborne thinks the team will continue being successful. She explained, the team “can't ever give up no matter what the situation is or comes to.”

The team continued their season with a victory on Thursday, October 20th against Massabesic High School. Support the field hockey team!

A New Resource is Coming to MHS

2011-10-22T20:33:00.000-04:00

by Jorden Mitchell

Have you ever had trouble writing a paper? Do you have issues editing your own work? Do not fret. In January, Marshwood is opening a student-staffed writing center.

Before the writing center even opens, there will be a lot of work put into this new school resource. The writing center will consist of tutors, your peers, volunteering in the learning center. The tutors will have gone through months of training just to help you!

The number of students who will be staffing the center is unknown because students are being recommended by their teachers and then choose to apply. Ms. Renee Liepold, English teacher and writing center director, said that there are over “35 names” of sophomores and juniors who have been recommended by teachers from across disciplines, and those students have been contacted as potential tutors.

The plan for the tutors is to fill out an application and after being reviewed, students will go through the training process. The training process is still being planned. Right now, the plan is either to have tutors “taken out of class,” Ms. Liepold said, or to have the tutors stay after school for the training sessions. The tutors will be trained by Ms. Liepold and a handful of other Marshwood teachers.

In a document shared with teachers at the October faculty meeting, Ms. Liepold explained that tutors “willingly will give up their study halls and are assigned to the learning center” to work in the writing center. The tutors can still do regular homework as well as helping other students. The tutors will get community service hours for working in the writing center.

Introduction letters were sent out on Monday, October 17th and applications are due on November 1st. After that, the tutor training process begins.

Do not worry the writing center opening in January is not only for English papers. The tutors will be taught how to help peers with science labs and history DBQ’s as well. It will be open seven periods a day as long as there are enough tutors available. If you’re interested in becoming a tutor see Ms. Liepold, in room B202, and ask for more information.

Marshwood’s Lunch Prices Go Up

2011-10-22T20:16:00.001-04:00

by Lance Lord

In this new school year, Marshwood High school is put in the spotlight for its lunch due to the price increase. Dennis Chagnon, the head of this department, gives Foster’s Daily Democrat a little understanding why. “The worst thing here in the Northeast is that we have winter. It’s not like [in the south] where they can go out in the middle of February and pick a tomato; we don’t have that luxury.”

If Marshwood High school wants healthy students then a healthy diet is key. Although healthy diets cost money, especially at school, they are important in the learning process. If something doesn’t change in the cost, then Marshwood High School will spend money for nothing to change. Some students have already begun skipping lunch to use the time as an extra study hall.

Marshwood’s food department raised the price from 58 to 64 cents per average student’s plate, and the government only helps with six cents per plate. Chagnon’s response to Foster’s Daily Democrat, is “ if you’re going to eat healthier it costs more money and that’s just the way it is” said Chagnon. And with new foods “it will cost 58 to 64 cents more per plate, and the government is only going to give us an additional 6 cents reimbursement.”

From the point of view from a student here at Marshwood, Anna Karosis explains how she feels about these changes. “I would rather wait until I gets home to eat instead of eating in the cafeteria because I don’t want to spend all my money for the week on the very expensive food.” Jake Olson also expresses his feelings on the prices of lunches these days. “ The salad bar is a complete ripoff because you can go to a local farm stand and get twice as much for half the price.” Lastly, Caleb Jones tells what he thinks. “I believe the prices are a bit much but they’re necessary because the cafeteria runs in the red every year.”

Marshwood isn’t getting enough money from the government to support the new regulation’s impact on funding. So, students who don’t appreciate the increase in our cafeteria’s funding will have to pack a lunch for now.

Coaching the Marshwood Golf Team

2011-10-22T20:14:00.000-04:00

by Brandon Lebel

For all teams there is a coach, and for all coaches there is a story to tell. Some more exciting than others, but all of them hold meaning.

Mr. Michael Corriveau is the coach for Marshwood’s Golf team, and he is passionate about what he does. Mr Corriveau said “I do truly love coaching high school golf.” He has been coaching for a long time, and he has seen and met many great high school golfers. He said “I’ve been coaching golf for more than ten years, and we have had many players qualify for the individual state golf tournament.

Although he has seen some great golfing, Mr Corriveau has only had three boys qualify for the top ten once they had made it to the state tournament. No girls have made top ten in the state to this day. However, Marshwood senior Megan Maguire has placed first and second in the girl’s Western Maine Qualifier, and Mr. Corriveau is confident that she has a good chance to make top ten at the state tournament.

Mr Corriveau said “she is the only girl from Marshwood who has reached this level of play, and she does have a really good chance to secure a top ten finish at the states.” When a coach really backs up and believes in his players, it gives them confidence to play better.

As one would think, Mr. Corriveau loves to coach golf at the high school level. Although he has had some good players come through, it’s not the talent he loves, it’s the game itself. Mr. Corriveau explained that, “working with players of this caliber is a plus.” Those are the types of words that any athlete would like to hear from their coach.

There are Joys in Football

2011-10-22T18:56:00.000-04:00

by Caleb Jones

Wouldn’t it be hard to be deaf? Try being deaf while playing football like Luke Joy does.

Luke is five feet nine inches tall and around two hundred pounds. He has brown hair and blue eyes. There’s also one more detail you should know about Luke, he’s deaf. He’s not only deaf, he has poor vision as well.

Luke is deaf and playing football for the Marshwood High School football team. Luke said, “ I have been playing since 8th grade, so I’m in my fourth year now.” He started to play because he saw his brother Ethan Joy playing in his seventh grade year. “Ethan was playing first, and I saw how much fun he was having. So, I decided to play,” Luke said. Playing football has brought Luke and Ethan together even more than they were before. Ethan said “We’re really close. And football just brings us even closer. Like, sometimes I have to interpret for him, and I don’t even mind.”

You might be thinking how can someone play football while being deaf? But for Luke, it’s not really too much of a problem. There are some disadvantages Luke has like knowing when the play starts and ends. He also has trouble knowing what the play is when he’s on offense.

Despite these disadvantages there are some things that he benefits from being deaf. He’ll never be offsides when he’s playing defense. Luke has to watch the football for when it’s snapped and react to when it is snapped so this is why he won’t ever be offsides. This is something the coaches at Marshwood and all around the country have been trying to teach their players to be able to do for many years and Luke does it naturally.

Even though Luke may be deaf and has a hard time with the game sometimes, his team will still support him through everything. Kyle Markham, a Marshwood junior, said “I’ll always try to help him, but sometimes I’ll try to talk to him when he’s done something wrong to tell him how to do it. But I don’t know sign language, so it’s hard.” It’s difficult for it Luke and his teammates, but they always try to make things the best they can be. Kyle said “I think our team tries hard to act like he could hear, so he’s like everyone else.”

Recently, Luke has even had state recognition through a news story. It really is astonishing that Luke can play football as well as he can. Luke faces adversity and overcomes it everyday. So come and help out his cause and watch every football game you can. The support also does not have to be about football. You can support Luke at school by sharing a friendly wave when you see him in the hallways.

Marshwood Students Leave Their Footprint

2011-10-22T18:08:00.002-04:00

by Katelin Johnson

For more than seven years, students at Marshwood High School have been actively involved with serving their community. Throughout the years, students have been making their “Footprint” in the community and this year they are taking another step forward in an annual MHS tradition.

Every year the Interact Club at Marshwood High School takes on volunteer work around the community. Since the beginning of the Interact club they have participated in a traditional food drive. Events such as this one are sponsored by the Rotary Club. This year’s president of the Interact club Anna Lietz, club officers Anna Byrne, Alyssa Fogerty, and Deridre LaSelva, and various members of the club, have been working very hard to put together this year’s food drive.

Food pantries around the community are dependant on a constant flow supplies brought in year round. This year’s food drive is being held for the “Footprints Food Pantry” in Kittery, Maine. “Footprints Food Pantry” helps families in the community who are in need of food or household supplies. According to the Footprints website, “we give each family enough food to last them five days.” This food drive will support “Footprints Food Pantry” by helping them stock the pantry for the upcoming holidays.

For MHS students and faculty, this year’s food drive will be motivated by a competition. The Interact Club is looking to collect non-perishable food. Students will be able to place their food in a bin located in their advisories beginning October 12th through November 3rd. The advisory that collects the highest number of items will receive donuts. Students and faculty members are welcome to join in on the fun of creating Marshwood High School’s footprint in the community.

Marshwood history teacher, and past advisory of the Interact Club, Mr. Steve Bowden has hopes for MHS’s future participation in the food drive. He “would like to see [the food drive] happen more than once a year.” Food pantries need help year round for maintaining stock, so Marshwood students take a step in a different direction and start a new tradition. Season themed food drives anyone?

Help keep the tradition alive and donate any non-perishables to advisories from October 12th through November 3rd. “There are real needs in the community. We don’t have to look very far” said Mr. Bowden. Interact Club sent emails and fliers to students, parents, and teachers announcing details of the food drive, so check it out!

Photo by Katelin Johnson

Season Three: "GLEE," is Back in!

2011-10-22T18:05:00.002-04:00

by Jaimie Goodwin

"Glee," is probably one of the best shows currently on television right now. The show has won a Grammy Nomination, 3 gold albums, two platinum albums, 33 million downloads, two sold out concert tours, a blockbuster 3D movie, four Emmy awards, three Golden Globes, and was rated best television series for the comedy and musical experience within the show.

This relates to how popular the show is throughout America. Millions of viewers agree that, "Glee," has many of the best vocalist in the music industry. The way "Glee" ties the students’ actions and moods of the moments in the show with the songs they sing, is outstanding. "Gleeks" will watch any episode that comes on.

If parents wanted to try and relate to a child’s life, "Glee" could be something to watch, seeing how it relates to teenagers all over the world. Watching "Glee" is a good experience for children and adults. If anyone likes to sing and dance this is a good show to watch on Tuesday nights at 8, on FOX. Overall, "Glee," is rated 10 stars in America.

The basic premise of the show is students at Mckinley High are going into their third season of Glee Club, which for some students is their senior year. Millions of people await to watch a musical comedy. As musical students at Mckinley High aim for another year at nationals to outshine the competitors, viewers wonder how coming in twelfth place and an unexpected kiss between Rachel and Finn will effect the Glee Club this season. Between the Glee Club working hard to make the club cool again by using "purple pianos," trying to get Quinn back in the club, and Santana getting kicked out, many things are not going as planned. Will Schusester decides he can't do the spring musical and leaves it up to Artie. Artie had many Glee Club members try out to make the play. The Glee Club will bring out their talented side once again to see who will get that leading role.

This season will include the same main characters as the previous season: Rachel Berry, played by Lea Michele, a girl who outshines the rest with her singing and is currently dating the quarterback, Finn; Finn, played by Cory Munteith, works at a auto repair shop and doesn't know if singing is part of his future; Kurt, played by Chris Colfer, is different from the rest and wants to star in every show they have at Mckinley High; and Will Schuester, played by Mathew Morrison, Glee Club teacher, who just wants to win Nationals.

Other students that will be starring this season is the cast from "The Glee Project.” This is a show where students from all over the world, auditioned to win a chance to be on 7 episodes of “Glee.” New faces will be singing this season.

"Glee" is directed with a little bit of all the casts input. The series was created by Ryan Murphy, Brad Falchuk and Ian Brennan, who all thought this idea was going to just be a film. The cast thought this show was going to be a one show event, where only the first episode would be aired then nothing would come out of it. When they found out people loved it, three seasons have come out. Each episode has its own story line that the music goes with. The writers Ryan Murphy and Ian Brennon plan each episode to be something different. They like to have a good story line to keep viewers interested. The music is picked by Murphy. The way the music is decided is how the part of the show is taken play. For example, are they happy, sad, or excited, within the scene?

Hopefully, America will be seeing more nominations for "Glee." If you’re a fan, stay tuned; you’re in for a surprise this season!

Photo: Season 3 image from FOX

It’s Spirit Week!

2011-09-28T15:52:00.002-04:00

By Mike Woodman

The week of September 26th, Marshwood will have the annual Spirit Week leading up to the Spirit Assembly, full of activities, games, and performances on Friday, September 30th.

This year for Spirit Week there are three new dress up days. Monday is 80’s Day, Tuesday is Superhero Day, Wednesday is Class Color Day, Thursday is Western Day, followed by the traditional Purple and White Friday. Each year the cheering squad meets to choose dress up days and activities for the Spirit Assembly.

“We kept 80’s Day and Purple and White Day because they are traditional” said senior cheerleader Kayla Rackley. “We chose these new days to change it up.”

According to Principal Paul Mehlhorn the annual Spirit Assembly (previously “Pep Rally”) has been a tradition before he was principal. Every year on the Friday of Spirit Week Marshwood conducts a Spirit Assembly in the gymnasium. This year’s activities will include a relay, musical chairs, tug of war, whip cream pie eating contest, yelling contest, and blindfolded dancing. The cheerleaders will be performing and Rackley also stated that the band will play Marshwood’s foreign exchange students’ National Anthems.

At the Spirit Assembly, the whip cream pie eating contest is new this year in place of the jello eating contest. This year participants will have to eat all the whip cream in a pie place until, at the bottom, they get to a piece of Double Bubble gum. The first person to blow a bubble wins the contest.

All students are encouraged to attend and participate in Spirit Week and the Spirit Assembly to show school spirit and boost morale.

Photo by Mike Woodman

MHS Game Day Jerseys: What’s the Deal?

2011-09-28T15:46:00.000-04:00

By Katelin Johnson

Every season athletes from Marshwood High School look forward to showing their colors, title, and spirit by wearing jerseys through the hallways on game days. “It brings our team into perspective to the people around the community,” says senior football captain Caleb Jones.

In years past football players at Marshwood were the only athletic team able to wear jerseys on game days. Why, you might ask? This was because football players used to purchase their own uniforms. As for the other Marshwood teams, they were given school-bought uniforms.

It was a choice not made by a school policy but by the coaches to disallow the teams to wear jerseys on game day, due to the chance of damaging the jerseys. This seemed like a reasonable explanation for girls varsity basketball captain Jorden Mitchell who explained how, “it costs a lot of money to get new ones.”

There has never been a school policy on athletic uniforms at Marshwood High School. “We [choose who can and can’t wear uniforms] in conjunction … me and the coaches,” Athletic Director Rich Buzzell explained.

First team baseball Coach Rich Luciano explained that his team and all of the baseball teams at Marshwood High School wear t-shirts on game days to show their title, spirit, and morale. They wear one color t-shirt with Marshwood written on it for home games and another color t-shirt for away games.

Now the Marshwood students, faculty, and community’s questions can be put to rest. There are no policies holding back athletes from wearing their jerseys. Coaches and Mr. Buzzell hold the decision for wearing or not wearing jerseys on game days; it is not in the student’s control. But as students, everyone can support the Hawks by wearing school colors for the athletes. Support your Marshwood teams on game days and wear purple and white with pride!

Hawks Lose Key Starter Steve Smith

2011-09-28T15:33:00.002-04:00

By Jeff Graunke

Snap! an agonizing sound the Marshwood Hawks soccer team heard on September 5th that brought Steve Smith pain for the rest of the season. The Hawks varsity team misses their starting defensive midfielder Steve Smith very much. His skills as a midfielder control the center of the field with brute force adding tons to the team’s physicality, enabling the team to take the ball away from opposing players easier.

“The sound was a very loud snap” said Ryder Schumacher, a fellow starter for the Hawks. The sound was so loud all the players on the field heard it. Steve was injured jumping up aggressively for a header and collided with Coach Tristan Morel in practice on September 5th. Steve did a full front flip and landed straight on his shoulder.

Smith said that at first he thought nothing was wrong, but when Coach Deschene asked him to raise his arm there was a sharp pain in his shoulder. He was then rushed to the emergency room by his mom where they took x-rays. “I could feel the bone moving around, so I knew it was broken before the x-rays” said Smith. It turned out to be a broken clavicle, and he would need surgery.

Steve Smith’s surgery was at 3pm at York Hospital, and he returned home the next morning at around noon. He had a plate put in where the bones were separated to put them back in place. The bones were off-centered, and if he did not have the surgery he would of had a deformity when the bone grew back. The recovery time after the surgery is 6-8 weeks, thus ending his final soccer season at Marshwood High School.

Photo by Jeff Graunke: Steve Smith showing off his scar

The Jungle Book will Bring Mass Amounts of Jungle-fun this Fall.

2011-09-28T10:29:00.000-04:00

By Ryder Schumacher

The Jungle Book will be this year’s fall district musical at MSAD#35, and Ms. Tanya West is leading the childhood classic’s production. As most of us have already seen the Disney movie, The Jungle Book, Ms. West says the musical will be very different than the film.

Ms. West stated, “whenever you take a movie and put it on a stage you need to have some differences, which becomes one of our challenges.” She mentioned that Act II of the play will feature an urban remix (or a gangster remix) as compared to the corresponding scenes from the classic movie.

What also makes this year’s musical even more special is the number of new faces that will be joining the cast on stage. This production of The Jungle Book will be composed of fifty percent first time musical actors and actresses.

Auditioning for the play is no simple task. Auditioning is open to anyone grades three through twelve. An audition consists of first partaking in vocalizing, then singing a solo that the performer may choose. Finally, the performer must read one of the scenes that the casting panel has selected. The performers are later informed if they received the role they were hoping on getting.

Preparation for the performance operates on a fluctuating schedule. Practice takes place five days a week, however only certain roles practice each day. This allows each performer to receive at least 4 hours of practice a week or more if needed.

The Jungle Book is Marshwood’s 9th district musical. “There was no fall musical before I started here. There was only a spring musical” says Ms. West. Enabling the musicals to be district wide allows for younger children in the elementary schools and middle schools to experience the art of acting.

The play will be performed on November 11th-12th, 18th-19th and will begin at 7p.m. On November 12th the play will begin earlier at 2p.m. Tickets are 8 dollars in advance and 10 dollars at the door. Bring your family and friends to see what the hype is all about!

The New Cell Phone Policy and How it Affects YOU!

2011-09-28T10:22:00.001-04:00

By Jasmine Ross

While five days out of school for not handing over your cell phone may sound crazy to some students, if you’re caught using your phone and become insubordinate it can happen.

The new policy prohibits the use of cell phones in school unless they’re being used for academic purposes. But even then, teachers can choose whether or not to allow them in class. It’s their call.

Mr. Joe Schwartzman, Assistant Principal, said “just like anything that we do, we’re just try to teach kids the proper way to be respectful. It’s all about learning.” This is the reason the administration to created a new policy.

This new policy isn’t actually very different from the last though. Both limited the use of cell phones in school and gave permission for their use in the cafeteria or on the patio. The big difference, which really isn’t very big, is that in the newer version, cell phones can be used outside of the cafeteria, but only if being used for academic purposes.

In the student handbook it even says: “electronic devices, when used in a focused and purposeful manner, may facilitate learning. However, the use of electronic devices that distract, impede or are not related to the academic mission of the school is prohibited.”

“I don’t think that there was a problem,” said Mr. Schwartzman. “I think it was more that we were just trying to adjust the policy because cell phones have evolved from the phone into the smart phone, so there is a lot more uses for them.”

So the real reason for changing the policy was not because there was a problem but because the old policy was too gray. The administration felt the need to change the policy because of how much the cell phone has “evolved.” They realized that cell phones aren’t just being used to make phone calls or text nowadays but also to track homework and to study for tests.

In the words of senior, Ellie Delcourt, this new policy is “crazy” and she’s not the only one who thinks so.

Most students would jump the gun and say “five days out of school? What?” but, if you look at the big picture you’re only get that out of school suspension for becoming insubordinate. So, if you’re caught using your phone when you shouldn’t be and the teacher asks for it, save everybody some time and hand it over. It’s just that easy.

Foreign Exchange Students Thrown into the Marshwood Mix

2011-09-28T10:15:00.003-04:00

By Caleb Jones

Have you seen these new faces at our high school? Emeline Raman and Hyerin Yim left their home countries to study here at Marshwood High School.

Emeline is a senior staying with the Kahler family in Eliot. Mrs. Kahler works for a company that places foreign exchange students with host families. She placed a foreign exchange student who went to Marshwood four years ago to stay with their family. Now she placed Emeline with them this year. Emily Kahler, a freshman at Marshwood, said that she loves having exchange students stay with her family. It’s like having an older sister.

Hyerin is a sophomore staying with the Mendola family in South Berwick. Hyerin was place with the Mendola family through a different organization.

Schools in America are very different from those in Belgium and South Korea. Emeline explained that “schools in Belgium are a lot smaller.” Emeline later went on to explain “no we don’t have school buses. We can go in buses or cars though.” Hyerin also said “the Marshwood school is bigger than schools in Korea.” She also said that there aren’t school buses at her school.

In America sports play a big role in the school’s community. But in other countries sports aren’t as important. In countries like South Korea and Belgium there are no organized sports teams connected to schools. Emeline said “not with the school but clubs outside of school have them.” Hyerin said that there is gym class and that’s the closest they get to any sports teams because schools in Korea get out at 9 pm. There wouldn’t be any time for sports after school.

These two girls left their home countries for a place so far away just to go to school. Emeline said “I came here three years ago and I was like Wow! I really like it.” Hyerin said “my mother suggested that I go to America.” Now they have been in the U.S. for a month; they said they really like it here and are having a great experience. So, why don’t you make their experiences better by being friendly and saying hello.

Photo by Caleb Jones

New Special Education Teacher Brings New Ideas to MHS

2011-09-28T10:02:00.002-04:00

By Jorden Mitchell

Being a Special Education teacher was never in Ms. Dawn Lindsay’s plan. Her plan was to become an art teacher. Her history with special education started in the Saco district. She was an educational technician teaching a severely autistic child. This replaced her art career with a new career.

In 2001 a job in our district opened up for a special education teacher at the elementary school. Ms. Lindsay became the new teacher and ten years later she now works at the high school.

Before becoming a special education teacher, Ms. Lindsay went to the University of Maine at Orono to major in art. She was supposed to become an art teacher but instead, MSAD 35 school district gave her “a conditional certificate” to teach special education to the incoming students at the elementary school. Afterwards she is required to take two classes a year to be certified in special education. She never became an art teacher. Instead she uses her art major to help stimulate the brains of her students.

Ms. Lindsay isn’t new to Marshwood, only new to the high school. When asked about how she felt coming to a new school Ms. Lindsay said: “some of the students I am working with I have worked with either three years ago or when they were in kindergarten.” Upon arriving in her class room Ms. Lindsay has a comfortable demeanor with her students because of the connection.

Ms. Lindsay has been a special education teacher for 10 years. Being a teacher is difficult; each student has a different way of learning. One goal Ms. Lindsay wants is for each of her students to feel comfortable with the other students at Marshwood and to have the normal experience as a high school student even though they have some differences than others. Everyone has differences, some just impact learning more than others.

Be sure to stop in room B106 and welcome Ms. Lindsay to our school.

Marshwood Welcomes 200 Students to the School

2011-09-28T09:53:00.003-04:00

By Jaimie Goodwin

September 6, 2011, was opening day at Marshwood High School. On this day the Marshwood High School community welcomed the class of 2015. About 200 new faces walked through the doors of this school with their own opinions about the school.

Many of the new freshmen mentioned an enormous change at Marshwood High School compared to Marshwood Middle School. This change about the school has it's “pros and cons,” that some of the newest freshman may or may not like.

More freedom at Marshwood High School was a big hit with these freshmen. They like the freedom they are provided when they are walking to and from classes. Many of them stated that they needed more freedom to communicate with their friends.

The freshmen mentioned that the cafeteria food is a lot better. At this school, there is more choice, unlike the at the middle school. At the middle school students were given one choice: a main dish, vegetable, and fruit, with a choice of regular or chocolate milk. At Marshwood High School, you can get whatever you want to eat that day.

Another matter was, more homework, less rules, and that teachers are not as strict. Freshmen thought teachers here at Marshwood don’t yell as much as teachers from different schools. When they are being tough on a student about homework, they are just showing that they want you to pass the class and get the work in to be graded.

Marshwood is a school that is mainly about the academics. Students all over the school are not too happy that they are getting more homework as compared to middle school. Students show on test and quizzes how well they know the material, that the teachers provide and teach each day.

"I hate the bus ride," said one freshman, who prefers to remain anonymous, but knows the school well. He thinks taking the bus ride is long and would rather ride with a friend that has a car.

Many new students are involved in the sports we have at Marshwood. Many new freshmen are enjoying track and field, field hockey, basketball, baseball, football, and soccer. These are competitive sports that students love.

"I like the Marshwood spirt," says another freshmen. This freshman is finding his way around the halls and is enjoying his academic classes so far. For a new freshman it’s outstanding to find his way so quickly.

Freshmen have a lot to look forward to with in the next four years at Marshwood High School. This may include, spirit week, football games, spring fling, the dodge-ball tournaments, community service, prom, and senior banquet.

Upperclassmen, if you see someone younger then you that might be a freshmen stop and say, hi, help them out, and be nice. That is what being an upperclassman is all about!

Photo by Jaimie Goodwin: Freshmen working in the learning center with Mrs. Greenblatt

This Week at MHS: the Games are Brought to You!

2011-09-28T09:13:00.003-04:00

By Derek Johnson

The week of September 26th - 30th at Marshwood, there will be an opportunity to see almost every sporting event right at home. From the classrooms to the playing fields, homecoming is here again.

Homecoming has been happening at Marshwood since the first high school opened in 1966. The athletic director, Mr. Rich Buzzell, said that in the 1960s, homecoming was only about football. Homecoming would be the week of the first home football game, and that was usually around the end of September. Homecoming didn’t begin to be about every sporting event until roughly twenty years ago.

Homecoming isn’t the type of event that happens overnight. There is a lot of time and effort put into making this week happen. Mr. Buzzell has to schedule each team to have a home game at some point during the week. In order for this to happen, he must coordinate with other competing schools so that homecoming week can run smoothly.

This week’s schedule is as follows: Monday, there is a JV football game vs. Wells and a freshmen boys soccer game vs. Massabesic. Tuesday, there is JV and varsity girls soccer vs. McAuley at 6 p.m. Wednesday, there is freshmen, JV, and varsity field hockey vs. Windham at 6 p.m. Thursday, there is JV and varsity boys soccer vs. Biddeford at 6 p.m. And Friday, there is a varsity football game vs. Wells at 7 p.m., and varsity girls and boys cross country at 7:40p.m.

Be sure to attend as many games as possible because everything counts towards winning homecoming week for your class. With the event known as pack the stands, teachers tally how many students from each class are attend a game. Whichever class has the most amount of students at each game is awarded 10 points to their overall score for spirit week. The second place class earns five points and the third place class is awarded three points. The more you attend, the more points you earn, so be sure to go to this week’s homecoming games!

New Artwork on Display in Cafe

2011-09-28T07:21:00.006-04:00

By Kayla Rackley

If you have walked into the cafeteria lately, you may have noticed new artwork hanging on the walls. This artwork was made to remind the students of Marshwood to “leave no trace” by cleaning up after themselves.

These posters were made in the spring of 2011 by Mrs. Karen Camlin’s graphics and prints class. Mrs. Camlin said that Mr. Scott Patch came to her with the idea of making something to help remind the kids in the cafeteria to clean up after themselves. The idea “leave no trace” came from the saying from hiking and camping. Mrs. Camlin said that the idea is to leave the spot you were in as you found it, and make it so the next people just “stumble upon a totally natural place.” Mr. Patch had previously taught kids about this phrase and what it meant, and these were some of the students now entering the high school.

Mrs. Camlin decided to have her graphics and print class make the thirteen posters because graphics is “art to deliver a message,” and she believed that this was the perfect opportunity to get the message across. The class wanted to make the posters personal, having the actual items sold in our cafeteria as the main visual aspect of the poster. Some of these items included a Dasani bottle, a Vitamin Water bottle, and a Cheetos bag. The students also connected these items with the phrase “leave no trace” by imitating the font from the label for the font of the phrase.

These posters were just one of many actions that are being taken to try to get students to clean up after themselves in the lunch room. Mrs. Camlin believes that not just one thing will get the point across, but a combination of things will work, and the posters are one of them. Some students have been interested in making a poster to help get the message across. Mrs. Camlin said anyone who would like to do so is more then welcome to join the art club and make their own version to be displayed in the cafeteria. The many actions taken to reduce trash in the cafeteria will only be worth it if the students decide to do what’s right and “leave no trace.”

Photo by Kayla Rackley

Students School-wide Soon Issued Gmail Accounts

2011-02-16T06:00:00.001-05:00

By Buck Nichols and Conor LaSelva

In an effort to become less paper-dependent, Marshwood High School is in the process of issuing student e-mail accounts the week after February vacation.

Many students are familiar with G-mail, a system run by Google, because of its popularity and user-friendly applications. The High School Technology Committee decided to institute the accounts in order to solve compatibility issues pertaining to different styles of computers, ensure accessibility, and save money.

“[We’ve] been trying for three years to get each student and teacher to pass paper through e-mail,” explained Principal Mehlhorn.

Due to the difference in word processor programs from Apple to PC computers, other forms of electronic submission had a high potential for error.

“Compatibility is a big problem,” announced Assistant Principal Schwartzman while discussing the reasons for the change, “[This way] makes it easier to transfer information.”

Positive factors also influenced the decision to use G-mail. Google Docs' accessibility and usefulness is evident in the wide-use by other schools and its huge popularity in the general public. Google’s system of mail can be used on any computer with Internet and logged on to through Google with a simple user-name and password process.

In addition to the accessibility, the monetary advantages influenced the decision. With the current system, the school spends thousands funding paper, ink, and annual service. At One-third of a cent per black and white copy and 25 cents per color copy, the cost would be significantly lower by using Google Docs instead of printing paper.

Mr. Schwartzman said, “[We will] only spend $19.99 with the Google program for the domain name.”

The distribution of the G-mail accounts will take place in advisory where every student will receive, from their advisory teacher, a user-name and password. The user-name will be comprised of each student’s first initial and last name. To sign in, users will go to the regular G-mail login page and type in their user-name followed by the domain name, @rsu35.org. Advisors will give students their passwords, which is their student ID number. This can be changed at any time to a different password.

The goal is that the e-mail accounts could be used to turn in everything from lab reports to English essays. Additionally, in the future, the school would like to see teachers taking advantage of the opportunities provided through the user-friendly system by using the e-mail to send students homework, videos, or podcasts instead of using sheets of paper.

In addition to the program's beneficial factors, there are certain aspects that the school wishes were different. The insufficient math and science specific formulas within G-mail, by the school, considered unfortunate because it will limit its use in these subjects. Another aspect that the faculty is concerned with is the possible abuse of the accounts and its resources for cheating or plagiarism.

However, the accounts will be administered under the schools acceptable use policy and academic integrity policy located in the Parent-Student Handbook: “The use of e-mail for illegal activities is prohibited including threatening, harassment, and using false identities. Sending hate mail, chain letters, harassment, discriminatory remarks, and other antisocial behaviors are prohibited” (MHS Parent Student Handbook, p.9, sec. 5).

In order to ensure that the e-mails become a common resource used by both teachers and students, the High School’s Technology Committee will be demonstrating proper use of the accounts to the teachers in order to allow them to better understand and also help the students if need be.

Mr. Schwartzman shared his thoughts about the potential outcome for the e-mails, saying: “I think it [the success] is going to vary, it depends on the subject and the teacher [...] but technology has to become a habit.”

Student Government Redefines Fine Art Guidelines

2011-02-16T05:45:00.000-05:00

By Tyler Davidson and Shane Odiorne

The Student Government at MHS has been working with teachers and administrators to make five additional elective classes count as Fine Arts, allowing more students to get the credit and graduate.

“The more diverse the choices, the better it is for the students,” said Principal Mehlhorn.

“I am looking forward to the new variety of choices of Fine Art electives that will be offered next year,” said Monique Lillis, a sophomore in Marshwood High School.

Before this initiative, art and music were the only courses offered to earn the Fine Arts credit required to graduate. Though it might not go into effect until next year, the classes have already been selected to become Fine Arts. The electives include: Advanced Woodworking, Advanced Foods, Second Semester Video Production, Intro and Advanced CAD programs, and possibly Sewing. This will allow for students to enroll in classes they want to take, rather than use up a semester participating in a class of little interest to gain a Fine Arts credit.

According to Student Government Advisor Mr. Sanzone, “We want to increase opportunities to meet graduation requirements.”

The student government proposed this new policy last year and it remains a work in progress. After the question was asked about what actually made a class a Fine Art, the Student Government discovered that “there was no definition of what makes a class a Fine Art,” according to Mr. Sanzone. They then set out and created a definition that satisfied the administration. Once the Fine Arts definition was established, the Student Government reviewed all of the classes that could become Fine Arts based on the new guidelines.

When the Fine Arts classes were selected, the students had to get the classes approved by the administration. This happened after the classes that were selected changed their curriculum slightly to accommodate the new guidelines set down by the definition the students made.

“It was nice because we are also in the middle of revising our curriculum. said Principal Mehlhorn.

He also approved of the idea, but he wanted to be sure that in making these changes, our school was still adhering to the Maine State guidelines regarding a Fine Arts credit.

“As far as I know, no one has been vocally opposed to the idea,” said Mr. Sanzone.

During the next few months, the Student Government will work everything out and next year the classes named should become Fine Arts.

However, “It is important for students to realize that change does not happen in a day,” said Principal Mehlhorn. It will take some time to “tweak” the new guidelines to meet the standards of the State and student-generated rubric of a Fine Art.

The new Fine Arts will “impact the school in a more positive way,” stated Principal Mehlhorn.

Sanzone's We The People Team Heads to National Meet

2011-02-16T05:34:00.001-05:00

By Luke Howarth and Terence O’Brien

Many weeks of practicing paid off on Friday, February 4th, when Marshwood High School’s AP Government class took first place at the We the People competition at the University of Southern Maine, in Portland.

We the People is an annual competition among Maine schools, with questions pertaining to the Constitution and the Bill of Rights. Students are tasked with creating and polishing four-minute speeches about a variety of subjects, from freedom of speech, to Abraham Lincoln’s use of power in the Civil War.

“[We the People] is a chance for students to study the Constitution and the Bill of Rights and demonstrate their knowledge in front of a panel of judges,” says Mr. Sanzone, the AP Government teacher and advisor to the students. “It’s about the Constitution and the Bill of Rights, and how they were developed, how they were challenged, and how they are used today.”
Mr. Sanzone has supervised a total of eight years. He has created a dynasty, winning the competition four out of the last five years.

The team did not have much of a challenge at the State level. The only other team participating was Catherine McAuley, an all girl’s school located in Portland. Marshwood’s first-place finish qualified them for the national meet in Washington D.C., which will be held between April 29th and May 3rd.

Mr. Sanzone had confidence in his team, even before they proved themselves in Portland. His goal was to “do as well as we could but mostly just to win it.”

The national meet in Washington D.C. will have a higher level of competition. Every state in the country sends a team, and most are selected from more than just a group of two. There is no monetary prize, but the top fifteen finishers receive awards, and the respect that comes with them. The competition itself will be tougher, with judges that are more prestigious, usually including college professors and knowledgeable politicians.

The team practiced on weekdays after school and on the weekends.

Some schools train all year for the meet, with classes or programs that concentrate solely on the competition. Most schools simply send an AP Government class or something similar.

The Marshwood team, with its highest finish being 28th place, has struggled at the national meet. This year Mr. Sanzone has more confidence than ever, stating, “The more and more I do it, the better the team gets.” After doing it for 8 years, he seems to have a better understanding of how the contest works; after all, “the first 3 years it was kind of seeing how it worked. We got beat up pretty good.”

These past experiences have not affected Mr. Sanzone’s attitude going into the national meet, stating that “the goal [is] to get into the top 15.”

The success of the team has drawn more attention at Marshwood, but We the People is not recognized by many schools in Maine. Mr. Sanzone is currently talking to the director of We the People, in order to draw more schools to the competition. It is already confirmed that Noble will be attending the State meet next year, and Mr. Sanzone intends to draw more schools in.

South Berwick Public Library to Move to Portland St.

2011-02-16T05:33:00.001-05:00

By Sheldon Castro, Nate Rector, Amelia Jule

South Berwick Public Library plans to move from Portland St. to the old St. Michael’s Church due to its lack of space.

The present library is 1,500 square-feet, which is smaller than the MHS's 2,200 square-foot library. The new library, which will be completed within the next two years, will be about 6,800 square-feet.

This past November, the citizens of South Berwick passed a $1.2 million bond for a new library. The total cost, including purchasing the church and its renovations, will be $2.5 million. The Friends of the Library have to raise the other $1.3 million in funds. So far, the organization has raised $140,000 from various fundraisers. The bond increased South Berwick's residents' taxes by 15-28 cents. The bond will be paid off before 18 years.

The library's building, St. Michael's Church, is in need of repair, such as plumbing and structural work.

According to the children's librarian, Anne Marie Townsend, “The present day library was originally a temporary library. The town was supposed to give us a new library anyway.”

Karen Muscarello and Mandy Hanfelder organized various fundraisers, including a Halloween Walk, which raised over $500. “It was fun. Just seeing the kids faces was worth it,” says Hanfelder. “I helped out the library again at the Marshwood High School's Christmas Bazaar.”

Hanfelder wants to see more computers, movies, and books. Hanfelder said,“A library is a resource for a town, which means that the library will help the town grow as a community,”

“Libraries serve people. The more space you can provide the better, with the hopes that it would be used for educational and cultural events,” said MHS's Head Librarian Mrs. Buffithis. “Personally I would love to see a designated area for the children. If we teach them to love libraries, books, and learning, the next generations will be smarter and happier.”

Mamie Nye, South Berwick's Head Librarian, said, “We have a 12,000 dollar budget. Almost all of that goes to books. By the time we get our books paid for we have maybe 500 dollars left. Libraries need to remain relevant and on top of what the town’s people want […] This is our mission statement.”

With the new library, Nye plans to have the most up-to-date technology. E-books, Kindles, and Nooks, among others, will eventually be available to the townspeople.

When it comes to convenience, Nye said, “We always put the patrons first.”

2011-02-16T05:32:00.000-05:00

New Director Head Marshwood Great Works Play

Elizabeth Hoyt, a third grade teacher at Central School, will be directing the Marshwood Great Works School Play for the first time, rather than Janice Marro, who has been directing the school's plays for many years.

Last year, Mrs. Marro, the music teacher at MGWS, chose Honk Jr. as this year's fifth grade play. At the beginning of the year, however, she announced she was pregnant and her maternity leave would begin in February, when play rehearsals usually start.

At first, Mrs. Marro worried the play might have to be canceled. Another teacher, Kate Smith, suggested she ask Elizabeth Hoyt if she would be interested in taking over.

“I was honored that they thought of me,” said Mrs. Hoyt, “I decided I would give it a try.”

Mrs. Hoyt is no stranger to theater. Every year, her class performs A Christmas Carol for the rest of the third graders, but this is her first time directing a musical. Luckily, she has had help from other teachers, such as first-time volunteer Nathan Amsden and returning volunteer Ms. Tremblay.

Mr. Amsden is the music teacher at Berwick Academy and the parent of one of the participants in Honk Jr., Skyler Amsden. He will be helping with the musical aspect of the play. Ms. Tremblay, the art director, is in charge of the costumes and scenery. Some students are also included in the backstage process. Student volunteers are being accepted to paint the scenes and adult volunteers have been helping by buying props.

A small book, called the director's guide, has given Mrs. Hoyt and the volunteers a lot of good examples of how to make costumes and create scenery. However, its largest suggestion has been to keep it simple to “allow the kids to maintain a human appearance.” This will hopefully emphasize the main theme of the play, which is that bullying has many negative effects.

Honk Jr. is loosely based on the classic story of the ugly duckling, but “with humans that have animal-like characteristics,” explained Mrs. Hoyt.

The opening scene begins in a barnyard with a mother duck sitting on her eggs. She realizes that one of her eggs is much larger than the others, and when they all hatch, the chick from the larger egg begins honking instead of quacking. The unusual chick is teased and bullied until he decides to run away. The mother duck is concerned for her baby, and goes searching for him because she loves him despite his odd appearance.

“It's a cute play,” says Mrs. Hoyt, “I'm getting excited to see how these kids will perform their parts.”

Altogether, there are 52 kids just from the fifth grade, about a quarter of the class, are involved in the play. Each has some kind of a role, whether it is speaking on stage, narrating, or singing in the background.

Speaking roles are only given to the fifth graders, but the fourth graders are also included in the chorus. There are many main roles, but a few include: Ugly (Nicholas Lillis), Ida, Ugly’s mother (Linnea Eskind), Drake, Ugly’s father (Parker Scogland), and Cat (Gavin Sorge).

Nicholas Lillis summed up his experience so far by saying “I’m having fun.” When asked how he thinks Mrs. Hoyt is doing,
he said they have not done a lot of work yet, but she is doing a good job so far. Mrs. Hoyt meets with the students every Thursday after school for rehearsal.

The play will be shown the Thursday before April Vacation, April 14th, with showings at nine in the morning and seven at night.

Marshwood Hires New Math Teacher

2011-02-16T05:31:00.004-05:00

By Robyn Chadwick and Kaitlin Carr

As of the Fall of 2010, the math department, Principal Mehlhorn and Superintendent Sullivan hired a personable, intelligent mathematics teacher, Mike Hannon.

“The staff and I choose a new teacher based on how encouraging, engaging, and intelligent the teacher is,” Mr. Mehlhorn explained, “ [We also need] to be very careful, confidential, and score closely when choosing, and we all came to the decision Mr. Hannon was the best candidate for the job.”

Mr. Hannon’s humorous personality and ability to engage students in the classroom demonstrates, in part, his effectiveness as a teacher. As of now, Mr. Hannon teaches three different courses, including pre-algebra, algebra I, and geometry, with pre-algebra being his preferable choice.

Mr. Hannon wasn’t always an educator.

“I worked for a little over ten years in a construction site handling heavy equipment while I coached baseball, which was my driving force,” he states, “[even though] I‘ve always wanted to be a civil engineer.”

Mr. Hannon followed this dream by majoring in engineering at Florida Tech, but struggled with difficulties.

“My grades during my freshman year in college were low and I had to change my major since the engineering classes became more and more difficult and demanding. I ended up getting a job at BA in Aviation Management,” he said.

Soon, Mr. Hannon switched his career choice from engineering to education because “he’s always wanted to go into public education.” He received his masters in Education from Southern NH University in 2001 and seems confident with the choices he has made to get to where he is today.

“I first taught computer classes at Farmington High School, but then switched to Berwick Academy to teach computer classes and become the dean of students,” Mr. Hannon explained, “[It is great] too because I can still coach varsity baseball for BA while teaching at Marshwood.”

Mr. Hannon wished to switch from BA to Marshwood because in a public education system, he would have more opportunity and flexibility with his time. Also, because he values public education more then private education.

“I really enjoy how engaging and personable the students are here at Marshwood, although they are very random,” Mr. Hannon says, “ [I also like] the students work ethics…most of the time,” he jokes.

As for the future, Mr. Hannon hopes to increase his math knowledge by taking online courses so he can spend time with his kids, continue teaching at Marshwood High School, and continue his love of baseball by coaching the Berwick Academy baseball team.

Art Club to Decorate Teachers' Classrooms

2011-02-16T05:10:00.000-05:00

By Micaela Waters & Kendra Dugmore

The vivid paintings lining the walls of Mr. Edgar's classroom inspired the Art Club of Marshwood High School to meet last Thursday to discuss possible designs for classrooms of interested teachers, including those of Mrs. Smith and Mr. Pierce.

Art Club will keep the designs neutral. “In case teachers switch classrooms or new teachers come in,” said Madison Waterman, co-president of Art Club. “We don’t want to offend anybody.”

Mrs. Smith, a health and gym teacher, commented that she wants her classroom painted in a nature-themed design because nature is neutral and calming; “Everybody can relate to nature,” Smith said. "Any or most rooms need a little more pizzazz or character, anything that makes it more welcoming.”

Principal Mehlhorn will approve the designs before Art Club begins painting. “I think it's pretty cool,” Principal Mehlhorn said. “I don’t see a downside to it, personally […] Painting over something is inexpensive to do.”

There is no policy stating that teachers cannot paint their rooms, stated Mr. Mehlhorn. However, when the building was first built in 2000, the school was not allowed to change anything due to a contractual obligation with the architect. “That period of time has long gone by,” said Mr. Mehlhorn.

However, “We should be creating learning environments,” said Mr. Mehlhorn. “The question is, how can you use the imagery in a classroom to create and foster a learning environment?”

Mr. Edgar, an English teacher who already painted his classroom, stated: “I could defend almost all of my murals, but I can’t defend each mural as contributing to a particular lesson.” Edgar thinks the murals do affect the overall atmosphere of the room. “In a way, a room that expresses itself invites students to express themselves,” Edgar said. “At the same time, the classroom atmosphere is created by the way the teacher interacts with his or her students, not by illustrations on the walls.”

Madison disagrees. “I know that just from being in Mr. Edgar’s room versus other rooms, it seems like a more open and welcoming place to be. If we paint other classrooms, kids might volunteer more and be willing to share more ideas,” she said.

Mr. Pierce, a history teacher, also expressed an interest in Art Club decorating his room. As the teacher of AP Art History, he says, “You have to sell the artwork because the kids won't look for it on their own. [We have to show] things kids haven't seen, but what they would be interested in.”

According to Mr. Pierce, the school is “Institutionalized and boring. It is important to have color and things to look at.” He is open to the Art Club's ideas.

Madison hopes this project will reunite Art Club and help to raise awareness of its existence in the school. “Art Club has been disbanding throughout the year, and we haven’t had one big, set project that everyone has been willing to do. So, if we have this one big project, we might get more people involved in Art Club and might get more recognition in the school.”

Mr. Edgar first started painting his room last year; his first painting was an enlarged black fingerprint. “[It] served as nice example of an extended metaphor that I was discussing in my poetry class,” he said. Another mural of a sprawling tree also lines his classroom wall that “relates to a significant symbol in Speak, a book I read with my sophomore English students.”

Any teachers interested in having Art Club decorate their rooms or who can contribute to this effort can contact Madison Waterman.

Marshwood Girls Basketball Falls Short Against Number Two

2011-02-16T05:01:00.002-05:00

By Jillian Gori and Jocelyn Desisto

The Marshwood girls' varsity basketball team (7-9) suffered a tough loss at home against number two seed, Deering (15-1), 51-30 on Monday, February 7th, 2011.

The Marshwood girls' basketball team was looking for an upset Monday night against one of the best teams in the league to give them a great chance at making it to the post season, but unfortunately it fell short.

As the Deering Rams focused on their next game against number one seed, McAuley on Friday, and had just come off two close games the week before, Marshwood felt it was a perfect time to take advantage of them.

Captain Mallory McPherson, a guard, said, “We knew what we had to do. We had to shut Burchill down and play our game, and in the first half that’s exactly what we did.”

Within the first minute of the game, Deering hit the first shot to take the lead, but Marshwood’s Mallory McPherson answered with a three pointer only seconds later. The first half was back and forth scoring. The fast pace of the game showed the intensity of both teams. Every shot the Rams hit, Marshwood answered.

Sophomore point guard Alli Schoff said, “We were hitting all our shots in the first half and that was crucial.”

At the end of the half, Marshwood was down by three, holding the Rams to 25 points. In the locker room, the girls were happy with their play throughout the half. They were playing hard offensively and defensively, but they knew there could be no slack in their intensity.

The Hawks have had history of struggling in the third quarter this season, but they “couldn’t let it happen tonight, especially against a team as good as Deering is,” said Schoff.

As the Hawks returned in the second half, the hopes of avoiding a third quarter let down seemed slim as the quarter was coming to an end and the Rams had out scored the Hawks.

Four-year Varsity player, Kayla Burchill, led the Rams in scoring, which wasn’t the first time. Kayla, who had “an All-State performer last year who averaged 16.2 points and 8.1 rebounds (Portland Press Herald),” will be attending University of Vermont in the fall to play Division I basketball.

The Hawks were able to hold Kayla to a reasonable amount of points, but every player on the Rams has the potential to score, and it showed in the third and fourth quarter.

“We let them get on a run in the second half, and when your playing a team as good as [Deering], you can’t let that happen,” said Schoff.

Blake Pursues Career in Radio

2011-02-16T04:49:00.001-05:00

Sarai Blake, a sophomore at MHS, has volunteered over 250 hours of community service at Portsmouth Community Radio's station, WSCA 106.6 FM.

Sarai and her father, Terry, host Fantalk, a radio show on WSCA that focuses on interviewing local and nationally-known musicians. Sarai's most intriguing interviews include Marky Ramone (Ramones), Uncle Cracker, Dave "The Rock" Finstien, members of Carbon Leaf.

Blake decided that she wanted to become a radio DJ after a Girl's Scout field when she was in fifth grade.

“I was fascinated by the equipment and how everyone was working hard,” said Blake.

There is an open door policy at WSCA. Anyone can be a volunteer or DJ there as long as he or she goes through DJ training, which consists of three meetings. Module one is the basics, including directions on what the host can and cannot say on air. Module two assigns the future DJ to a mentor for hands on training. Module three is were the DJs learn some of the technical aspects of being a DJ.

At Portsmouth Community Radio there is everything from a pet talk show to a heavy metal show. It is on 24 hours a day 7 days a week. Blake likes The Uncle Phil Show on Fridays 10am-1pm show.

“The show has fun trivia and Phil is a funny guy,” Blake said.

Mellisa, a local listener, stated, “I think that the station is a reflection on many types of interests, with local people with passion for what they are doing. It is hard not to be excited about that and not want to help out."

The radio station is now going into its sixth year, running on the support of the Portsmouth community.

Portsmouth Community Radio just raised over $15,000 during its fall pledge drive. The funds will pay the rent as well as help purchase new equipment, such as a new generator, microphones, headphones, computers.

Listen to Sarai Blake and Terry's show via podcast, found at the Portsmouth Community Radio's website.

Vandalism in Decline at Marshwood High School

2011-02-16T03:46:00.000-05:00

By Ethan Curtis

The Head Custodian at Marshwood High School, Pete Gitschier, states that he has witnessed the amount of vandalism at MHS dwindle. He believes this is due to the students' increased respect for school property, and also that the incoming freshman have become more mature over the years.

He comments that vandalism often occurs when students skip class. “When they have nothing to do,” Gitschier said, “they get bored and cause trouble.”

“The most common place for vandalism to occur,” Gitschier says, “is the gym.” He says students often congregate there while waiting for classes to end, waiting for the busses to arrive, and while attending sporting events.

However, this is minor vandalism. Vandalism on a larger scale often masquerades as a “senior prank.”

Vandalism, while remaining at a constant level in schools similar to Marshwood, such as Sanford, Dover, and Somersworth high schools, has declined at Marshwood, according to Gitschier.

Though Gitschier believes the decline in vandalism has occurred due to an increase in respect and maturity in the students. Gitscher also acknowledges that the new administration plays a role.

“[The administration] have no tolerance for the vandalism,” Gitschier says.

Minor vandalism, like writing on the wall or breaking small items, is punished by requiring the student to stay after school for detention. Major vandalism, like a senior prank, is punished by banning the student from marching in graduation and receiving their diploma with their classmates. They are forced to receive their diploma separately from their peers.

Either due to an increased maturity in the students, or due to the stance of the current administration, vandalism has declined at Marshwood, and other schools may take notice and adjust their own stances of vandalism.

We the People

2011-02-15T13:36:00.001-05:00

by T.J. Osborne

We The People is a national debate for high school AP Government students to challenge their knowledge of the U.S. Constitution in simulated congressional hearings. Marshwood High School has dominated in past years and this year isn't any different.

Team members Connor Thomas, Chris Roy, Luke Beausoleil, Sam Richardson, Will Hofacker, Tony Strada, Griffin Roberge, Becca Day, Matt Robida, Noah Chadwick, Betsy Manero, Sarah Leathe, Nick Draper, David Blass, Elijah Ober, Molly Dunkelburger, Tom Kent, Amy Bates, Jill Reindeau, Tom Brinkman, Sophie White, Holly Nisbett, Ryan Fallon, along with coaches Matt Sanzone and Lizzy Barker, recently won the state competition on Friday February 4th, in Portland, Maine.

The competition, which took place at the University of Southern Maine, lasted about two hours. The team was separated into six units of four people. Each unit had a four minute speech and six minutes of follow-up questions. Connor Thomas, the leader of the Unit 5 group, dominated the competition and lead Marshwood to their win over Catherine McCauley High School. Connor Thomas was asked his opinion on the competition: “I think the competition went well overall, the answers to our free response questions were phenomenal.”

Marshwood heads to Washington D.C., April 28 to participate in the national competition, where they will be competing against teams from 49 other states and U.S. territories (Puerto Rico, Guam, American-Samoa). We wish them the best of luck; hopefully they can win a National Championship, which has never been done before at Marshwood.

Senior Schedules

2011-02-15T13:30:00.000-05:00

by Emily Greener

It is currently a policy at Marshwood High School that no student is allowed to have two study halls. I am a senior at Marshwood and just started my Senior year with all new classes. I had been planning on having an independent study for Crime and Justice since the beginning of the year, and when it came time to figure out my schedule I had two other empty periods. The only classes that were left were classes that not only did I not want to take, I didn’t even need the credits for them. It’s my senior year, I have never failed a class, I’m getting all of the credits I need to graduate, why can’t I chose my own schedule?

When I talked to Mrs. Edson she said that every student needs to be getting at least 5.5 credits a year, which includes a lab study hall and a regular study hall. Each student needs to have at least six periods of academic classes. If being a teacher aide is something students want to do they may only do it instead of being in study hall, they can’t have both.

I guess what I’m trying to say is, I think that if a senior is passing all of their classes, and is on track to graduate on time, that they should be able to have two study halls - only if TA-ing takes the place of one.

Trashed

2011-02-15T13:29:00.000-05:00

by Nick Draper

The crumbs are ground into the carpet next to a pudgy paste that was once peanut butter. Broken pencils, torn paper, and craggy erasers litter the carpet. Students ensure that these discarded items are not lonely. Chip bags, water bottles, and balled up tinfoil mingle casually with the rest of the trash.

Perhaps the Senior Lounge should be kept pristine. Perhaps the television should be turned off and the chairs straightened; the carpet vacuumed and the garbage thrown in the trashcan. But the trashcan is on the far side of the room. That is quite a walk. And we are seniors. This is our space, our Senior Lounge (and of course we all know that the lounge is a right not privilege). If we want to destroy the room, that's our prerogative. Why shouldn't we stain the carpet? Why shouldn't we break the couch and the pingpong table?

Teachers should really be thanking us. Rosinkski is right, “it looks like a post-party fraternity house.” But that trash acts as a deterrent. That room is small and gets crowded quickly. A crowded room is a loud room; a loud room is disruptive to neighboring classes. Our sloppiness guards Marshwood's academically rigorous environment. When asked why he doesn't visit the senior lounge, one student replied “It smells bad. That's the number one thing.” Even Rosinski admits, “I'm scared to come in sometimes.” The mold of food embedded into the carpet releases an odor that most can't endure. Imagine the chaos that would ensue, and the hours of education that would be lost if the lounge was kept in decent shape.

So let's keep this lounge filthy –not out of apathy or laziness (as some cynics might reason), but out of reverence for the prestigious environment that that our school demands. We would never want to sacrifice academic integrity for the sake of basic hygiene.

Hello, Aroma Joe's!

2011-02-15T13:27:00.002-05:00

by Will Hofacker

Say “Good Bye” to the Rockin’ Roster and “Hello” to Aroma Joe's. In the center of South Berwick lay the store, the Rockin’ Roster. It specialized in serving chicken products, but it also had other menu items and drugstore type items. Its place on Main St. has recently been bought buy the Aroma Joe's franchise.

This kind of business isn’t an unusual capitalist event, but this topic has been struck by a divided opinion base. Some are disappointed to see the loss of a local business. They are annoyed that there will be another morning food store when there’s already Dunkin’ Donuts right across the street. On the other hand, people who are big fans of a morning coffee are happy to hear about a new fresh taste to what they have been getting. Others like the competition. The deal is final and in about one or two months there will be a new coffee shop on Main Street, opinions aside.

Driving in the Snow

2011-02-15T13:24:00.001-05:00

by Nora Dwyer

The winter months bring challenges to student drivers on their commute to and from Marshwood. In the event of worrisome weather, school cancellations are ultimately decided by Superintendent Gail Sullivan. However, Principal Paul Mehlhorn was able to shed light on the influences that affect the superintendent’s decision. Prior to sending a cancellation call to students, parents and teachers, Superintendent Sullivan consults a variety of opinions, such as town managers, meteorologists, other superintendents, and the district’s transportation director. A well-rounded perspective is involved in the decision, although Principal Mehlhorn recognized “it is not an exact science.”

On the receiving end of the decision are students like senior Nicole Hourihan, who relayed her concerns of driving in inclement weather: “Old Fields Road is always difficult, because no one cares to keep up maintenance... I swerve almost every day at least once, and I’ve almost hit things a few times on the bad days.” Principal Mehlhorn explained the administration cares about student drivers, but “[cancellations] are not decided upon student drivers,” because every student has the option of taking school-provided transportation. Therefore, when it comes to snowy roads, only bus and faculty drivers directly impact the decision. Principal Mehlhorn said a student driving to school is a privilege, which is why a student’s lack of attendance due to weather is inexcusable. However, Mr. Mehlhorn explained the administration understands the difficulty in adjusting to new driving conditions, and often cancels school for the first snowstorm, which in turn benefits young drivers.

Furthermore, Principal Mehlhorn believed student drivers are under a “personal responsibility” in making their commute decisions, and suggested they stay attentive to weather forecasts. However, some may feel the same as senior Taylor Marks: “I feel like we’ve had early releases twice already when we shouldn’t have had school in the first place.”

Overall, Mr. Mehlhorn recognized “the school has to make decisions beneficial to most,” and that not all contingences can be met. Finally, in the absence of a cancellation student drivers must be the ultimate deciders in their safest school commute.

Intro to Theater

2011-02-15T13:23:00.001-05:00

by Mallory McPherson

One of the most popular elective courses offered to the students at Marshwood High School is the Introduction to Theater class. Throughout the course, students learn the basics of acting, staging, and improvisation of theater. The course is offered to students in grades nine through twelve, and every semester students of all ages are fighting for a position in the class. The beginning weeks of the class introduce students to theater through reading plays, improvising, building acting skills, and practicing basic skills performed in theater. Towards the last nine weeks, students are cast in a play, in which they perform in front of the entire student body.

Senior Erica Sedler says, “ I am very excited for the opportunity to reveal my personality through acting. It’s something I’ve always been interested in, I’ve just never gotten the chance to try it out.” Most students feel the same way Erica does. This class does not judge a student based on their skills as an actor. Anyone who’s wiling to accept the challenge can participate. It’s no easy feat to stand up in front of your peers and successfully remember every line, especially with no previous experience. This is what students can find difficult about this course.

The final performance constitutes a percentage in the final grade of the course. Students are encouraged to come to class regularly, learn the material, and participate to their fullest potential. With these easy actions, a high grade can be achieved. Students leave the course with a sense of how theater works and what it feels like to be an actor. If you’re the slightest bit interested in theater, this class is for you! Do you have what it takes?

Open Mic Night at the Black Bean

2011-02-15T13:20:00.000-05:00

by Emma Sinden

On the first Saturday of each month, local musicians and music lovers gather at the Black Bean Café for open mic night.

The Black Bean Café, in Rollinsford, New Hampshire, is a popular and cute place to eat and socialize, especially at the monthly Open Mic events. These events let musicians come together and share what they love.

In 2003, The Black Bean opened, and shortly after that is when the events started.

“The Open Mics are always a great time. It’s really nice to have a place to go that’s so close and the music is fantastic,” says Laura Roy, a senior and employee of The Black Bean Café. “We have such a large amount of local talent from kids at Marshwood.”

Included in this talent is junior Isa Burke. Isa grew up in a household full of music. She plays guitar, piano, ukulele, and the fiddle. When asked about the Open Mic events, she had positive comments.

“I rarely get nervous anymore. I’ve been doing it for such a long time that I know most the people there and they have such an informal, relaxed atmosphere. It isn’t scary at all.”

Burke heard about the Open Mic Nights from a friend whose parents own the Black Bean Café. The nights are organized by the owners, Chip Harding, local guitar teacher, Sarah Vanhorn, Marshwood alumni, and local musicians.

“The crowd usually depends on the night, but the Black Bean gets pretty full,” Burke explains. “It is almost entirely high school kids who go, but there are some college kids and adults. There is kind of a core of kids, mostly from Marshwood and Berwick Academy, who have been going since the events started.”

The Open Mic nights are fun, friendly, and relaxing to attend. Laura Roy says, “the atmosphere is always relaxed and easy-going. It makes the whole experience one of the most enjoyable ways to spend a Saturday night around here.”

Freshman Sianna Niedzolkowski commented, “It’s so great that there is a place for people with a love for music to gather and share their talents.” Niedzolkowski has been a spectator as well as a performer.

The Black Bean Café is located at 76 Front St, Rollinsford, New Hampshire; Open Mics start at seven o'clock p.m.

Midterms

2011-01-10T13:43:00.002-05:00

by Taylor Matthews, Tyler Lammers, Andrew Rollins

Midterms can be really stressful for many students, especially seniors. Getting ready for college and having to prepare for midterms is found to be very overwhelming. Most of the time, teachers will give students homework even a couple of weeks before the midterms. Students should be using the month of January for gathering materials and beginning study for the midterms. Instead, we are faced with the challenge of balancing homework, college, work, midterms, and a life.

Midterms are not a crucial as many people believe. Having to retain material from the beginning of year is very difficult. A senior Dana Foley stats, “I find it hard to remember what we learned a week ago, forget the beginning of the year.” That is why we have quarter grades right? To show if students remember and retain the information while it is taught. Also, midterms are not black and white; there are many grey areas. If we continue to have midterms, we believe every teacher should provide a study guide with all the questions that will appear on the exam, with the answers.

Dr. Dre “Beats” Headphones

2011-01-10T13:40:00.001-05:00

By Erica Sedler and Shelby Minihane

Dr. Dre recently came out with a new line of headphones called Beats. They offer a comfortable and stylish design that gives a crystal clear audio, which is why they are quite expensive. The price ranges from two to four hundred, and although they are of great quality, are they really worth the hundreds of dollars? This is what we have asked students who have received these for a Christmas gift.

Tyler Lammers claims “the bass thumps and you feel surrounded by the sound. It is definitely the best quality music you well get with a portable device.” Andrew Rollins and Taylor Matthews were also lucky enough to be given Beats for Christmas. Taylor Matthews loves the fact that you cannot hear any other noises besides the music. “It blocks everything else out and all you can here is the beat. It really is awesome.”

Other people are more skeptical about the price. “Two hundred fifty dollars for headphones is a bit ridiculous, and I feel as though I don’t really need something like that. If they were a bit cheaper, then I would be more likely to purchase”, says Linden Towle. “Also, I like to have my headphones in when I am bulking up at the gym, so having a large headset isn’t very convenient.”

There are many different views of the Beats, but those who are owners love the great quality and think it is worth the money. Our advice to you is to try them out before you buy, and make sure you are ready to drop that cash!

Math Team

2011-01-10T13:37:00.003-05:00

by Avery Rogers

Among the most under-appreciated teams at Marshwood High school is the Math Team. If you haven't heard yet, the team is so far extremely successful and will continue to progress up to the top as the meets go on. We are currently 3rd out of 18 schools, and 8th in class A in the state.

The team practices on Mondays and Wednesdays, and there are meets once a month. They have received 2nd place once and 3rd place twice already. Each practice they learn a different subject, and each meet has five different math subjects to compete in. There are six meets a year, and the “state” meet which is just the “A” team and two reserves, and if they do well in the state competition they will qualify for the regional meet.

The great participants of this dominating team are: David Blass, Taylor Marks, Tyler Hickey, Tony Strada, Molly Dunkelburger, Katie Kirwin, Ian Ramsey, Robert Jones, Ben Hebert, Sarah Woodbury, Sophie White, Ryan Fallon, Jillian Riendeau, Monique Lellis, Jackson Tole, Amy Bates, Joshua Allen, Andrew Purgiel, Josh Marks, John Shealer, Shamus McManus, and of course Coach Mr. Graunke.

The top scoring seniors are David Blass: 4, Taylor Marks: 6, and Tony Strada: 10

The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy

2011-01-10T13:34:00.002-05:00

by Jake Mahoney

The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy is a very famous and well respected series of comedy Science Fiction novels written by the English author Douglass Adams. The first book was published in 1979, and it and its sequels reached widespread fame in the U.K., and eventually the U.S. It is based off a series of radio broadcasts of the same name, and even went on to have a movie made about it more than 20 years after its publication.

The book is a very zany read, full of jokes and innuendos that make you have to think before you chuckle. And don't expect this book to make everyone laugh, as the humor is pretty dry. We meet the character of Arthur Dent, a rather boring Englishman who likes to go with the flow, and is altogether an uninteresting character. Arthur is in an uneasy predicament his house in the middle of an inconspicuous field is about to be bulldozed to make space for a major bypass. This just happens to be a representation (though an unknown one to absolutely everyone on Earth) for the destruction of Earth by bureaucratic aliens to make space for an interspacial bypass. Arthur has a friend named Ford, who has always seemed to be rather Alien. Turns out, he is, and through use of his hitchiker's ring and guidebook, they manage to get off of the planet, and start a journey through the Galaxy. The series is full of time-warping, space traveling, paradoxical events that are meant to both wow the reader, and build upon the backstory.

Adams has created a literal Hitchhiker's Universe. The book deals with discovering the meaning of life, the universe and everything. And as that is the ultimate plot point, we, along with Arthur learn a little bit about humanity and the universe...and everything. It terms of a “page turner” I wouldn't consider this book one. I definitely enjoyed the read, however sometimes you had to fight too much with the book to laugh. And if you happen to miss one bit of information, you get exponentially more confused as the book goes on. That being said, the amount of clever comedy more than makes up for any confusion or dryness. Those “Brits” just have a different flavor of comedy than we do, is all. If you want to consider yourself an aficionado of Science Fiction, or comedy in general, read this book!

A.P. Lit vs. A.P. Lang

2011-01-10T13:33:00.001-05:00

by Tom Kent and Luke Beausoliel

Advanced Placement Literature and Composition and Advanced Placement Language and Composition are both English courses offered to Seniors at Marshwood High School. While it may seem that they're both AP courses and thus both very similar courses, don't let it fool you. These are two very different courses, taught by different teachers with their own style to each course. The AP Lit course for example, is all about the fiction writing, Shakespeare is an author which will be looked at frequently in this course. AP Lang, on the other hand, is all about the non-fiction writing. Some books you will look at are Fast Food Nation and In Cold Blood. Regardless as to which course you pick, you'll probably always have at least some reading to do. Neither one of these courses seem particularly harder than the other, but it is advised to look deeply into both of these courses to make an informed decision about these courses.

The Kite Runner

2010-12-20T13:44:00.000-05:00

by Alex Gagnon

The Kite Runner is a book written by Khaled Hosseini, published in 2003. This novel tells a tale of redemption for a young man named Amir growing up in America when he returns to his homeland of Afghanistan. The first part of the book covers the man's life growing up in Afghanistan, while the second half deals with the events of the tortured man trying to redeem himself.

Amir is constantly haunted by the memory of something terrible that happened to his best friend Hassan. Amir feels guilty because he hid and witnessed the event which is very disturbing. In my life I have never read a book that is more moving than The Kite Runner. This is one of the few books that has been able to keep my attention for long periods of time. It is so realistic that at some of the more disturbing parts, I felt physically ill.

This book was a national bestseller, winning numerous awards including the South African Boeke Prize. For those who are not a fan of reading, this book was adapted to the big screen in 2007. The film was nominated for multiple awards including Best Foreign Film. This amazing work of literature can be picked up at your local bookstore.

Boston Celtics

2010-12-20T13:42:00.001-05:00

by David Vittori and Chris Towne

Recently the Boston Celtics have been doing exceptionally well. After a close defeat last season in the finals they are on their way back to the top. Currently, the Celtics are on a 12 win streak after last nights (12/16) 102 to 90 win over the Atlanta Hawks. This puts the Celtics at 21-4 in the season. Last Wednesday (12/15) the Celtics had a really close game against the New York Knicks. Paul Pierce's last minute shot brought the Celtics to a 118-116 win to keep their streak going. The next game is Sunday, December 19 against the Indiana Pacers. Hopefully the Celtics can keep their win streak going.