iv ii l ! moffett breaks...

I

WARRIOR i I Niskayuna High School

I

I I I

Schenectady, New York 12309 !

Volume IV Issue I I October 1977 L

!

MOFFETT BREAKS RECORDS By Brian Sheridan

From the kid who used to run a t have that much endurance." Oneida Jr. High to get out of gym The endurance he does have, how- class, Mike Moffett has come a long ever, is not all natural. He trains way. year-round, and during the summer he

On Sept. 21, a t the Guilderland ran 10 to 14 miles a day, five days a Invitational Track Meet, Mike Moffett week. His times have been steadily took first place in a field of 70 with a improving since he began high school. time of 12 minutes, 15 seconds ahead On the standard 2.5 mile cross-country of the second place finisher and shat- course, Mike runs a full minute faster tering the old record by 11 seconds. than when he was a freshman.

Again on Sept. 24, at the Proctor Mike, the captain of the cross- Invitational Track Meet in Utica, N.Y., country team, is emerging as the great Mike did i t again, finishing first in a runner everyone knew he would be. field of 210, setting a new course Because of his strong academic record, record of 14 minutes, 9 seconds. Mike coupled with his running ability, Mike beat the old record by 5.6 seconds. has heard from colleges all over the

Mike's style is to start off fast and country. force the other runners to chase him, When asked of his greatest moment while they tire themselves and hope- as a runner, Mike replied, "winning the fully lose their kick as they approach Proctor and knowing I had set a re- the finish line. Why this stragegy? cord." Mike's future goal is, naturally, "It's simple," as Mike says, "I don't to win the state's cross-country.

DOGS FINANCE NICS Serve Community for Sixth Year By Christine Shields and Wildwood School.

Niskayuna Intercommunity Service In addition to these commitments (NICS) has started its sixth year a t NICS also helps with many school

By Kathleen Vaughan Niskayuna High School. activities. Last year NICS helped with The Junior class has already set its Mrs. Mary JO MacKenzie founded the drama productions, called to re-

p l a n ~ into action for money-raising this organization and had been the mind people to vote on the school this year. A large amount of money leader by herself until Miss Delio budget, worked to get the school pic- must be made to finance the Junior Gravink stepped in to help two years tures to run smoothly, and lent their Prom this spring. ago. Assisting the two advisors are services to the Folk Festival.

A unique idea is being tried out. Shellie Stoddard, Senior President, All the girls in NICS have a @eat The Town of Niskayuna is going to pay Karin Nelson, Junior President, and time helping others. One girl stated, the Junior class members to take the thirteen board members. 'NICS members, by bettering the com- town's annual dog census. Members of NICS' biggest project is "commit- munity, better themselves." the class will go door-to-door to regis- ments." Each member is given a There are one hundred members in ter the amount of dogs, their owners' choice of what she would like to do for NICS. The membership is made up of names, and their owners' addresses. the community. Some of the choices twenty freshmen, thirty sophomores, The class will receive fifty cents for are: visiting Ingersoll Home for Aged thirty juniors and twenty seniors. each dog registered. Men; visiting Jones House, a home for One member summed up the pro-

Other money-making plans include: women; tutoring young children a t gram by saying, "With present-day selling red and gray Niskayuna hats, Craig School; and helping with sorting costs on the rise, there is a need for

stickers, and Warrior in the library. NICS' newest commit- volunteers to serve the community and up for each sport. ments are services at The Girls' Club NICS fills at least part of that need."

2 - WARRIOR, October 1977

EDITORIAL FORUM United Effort Needed to Combat Vandals By Karen Weinstein and David Marshall

As many N.H.S. students know, ledge that they were unorganized, ad- Fridav, October 7 was a very exciting mitting that the decision to have the

WARRIOR Niskayuna High School ., ,

night at Niskayuna High school. dance was not made until late. As a 1626 Bal ltown Road The dumpster by the industrial arts result, police were not Present at Schenectady, N~~ yOrk ,2309

rooms was set ablaze, fortunately either the bonfire or the dance, and causing no damage, but requiring the few parent chaperones were present at fire department to be summoned. All the dance. Lack of police and chape-

Editor David Marshall

the benches outside the library were rones allowed the incidents of destruc- Assistant Editor Karen weinstein

tipped over. Firecrackers and a smoke tion to occur. Sports Editor Michael Wohl bomb were exploded inside the school. We feel that to err is human, but Business Manager Ann Parisel la There was evidence of students drink- when the results of the error are Editorial Board Members: N~~~ ~ ~ r t - ing in and around the school. The damaging to people and Property, a shorne, ~i~ saeed K ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ , parking lot was littered with beer and lesson must be learned.

We suggest vaughan, Marianne Wasielewski liquor bottles; also, bottles and cans that more foresight and planning of were strewn all over school property. school events, more thorough supervi- Advisors Mary Jewett, LeRoy Jewett

Inside, at the dance, a student threw sion on the part of parents, teachers, up on another student. police, and importantly, cooperation The WARRIOR is published monthly

The school administrators acknow- from the students, be enforced. by and for the students of Niskayuna

TESTS ARE INEFFECTIVE AND UNJUST High School. The opinions expressed

By Kathy Caprino Several teachers at N.H.S. believe

strongly that tests are ineffective and unjust. Therefore, they conduct their classes without quizzes or unit exams. The emphasis is placed on classroom participation and homework. This method of teaching is beneficial, en- joyable, and educational.

When home work is stressed, students must learn, outside of class, to apply their newly-acquired knowledge to other situations. This should be a main concern for teachers - to teach skills and information applicable to outside life. Without tests, students make their own decisions about study-

Calls For Change in - By Kathi Vaughan

Should gym be graded on a pass-fail basis or an A-F letter system?

Here a t Niskayuna gym marks are the same as academic marks. This is not the case at all schools. Many schools operate on a pass-fail system. There are many advantages to this.

Obviously all of us are not equally competent when it comes to physical prowess, yet we are all required. to take the same level classes. It is not possible to have varied levels of classes for physical education as i t is in academic courses because of the limited staff and time. This presents a problem.

Although teachers may claim to consider how hard a person tries this rarely reflects in the grade. One student may try for all his worth to do

- in editorials, columns and articles are

ing. If students realize the importance those of the authors and are not be of homework, inevitably, many more construed as representative of student, students will do i t diligently. faculty or administrative views.

In addition, there are many stu- Letters to the Editor and articles are dents who can not take tests well. welcomed from all and may be left in They and not represent the WARRIOR office in Room F202. We their knowledge as well as they could. With the threat of tests gone, many reserve the right to edit letters and students will feel more comfortable ar!ic'esfo!length and grammar, but we and eager to learn. Also, they will be will not alter the ideas evaluated on an everyday basis, not on The WARRIOR welcomes new members one day's performance. at all meetings and work sessions.

It is evident that classes without -

tests are more beneficial. More Led Zepph teachers should seriously consider this method of teaching. Rocks Cafeteria

Gym Grades BY R O ~ Mathews a flip on the trampoline while another will do it with little effort on his first try. The more agile student will get a higher mark.

Granted, gym grades do not figure in for one's grade-point average, but a C or a D, regardless of the subject, is very upsetting to some students. An A student could understandably be bothered by a low grade amid the other grades.

A pass-fail system would relieve the pressure for some students. If a student attends all required sessions, tries a t each planned activity, and complies with all department rules, he or she would receive a simple passing grade rather than a specific letter grade. Anyone repeatedly skipping classes, goofing off during class, or disobeying rules would fail.

There are many reasons not to eat. It's hard to eat i f you're not hungry. , It's hard to eat if someone is sitting on your stomach. It is hard to eat with Led Zepplin blowing your head off.

True, the music may be good to listen to at times, but lunch period is not that time for most students. Feedback and blaring guitar leads do not mix well with a peanut butter sandwich.

Last year the music was softer and easier to listen to, but this year one can't even talk to the person sitting next to him without using sign language.

I am sure some people like to listen to the music and others like to chew to the beat, but i t is worth noticing that there are more people than ever mi- grating to the new cafeteria.

WARRIOR. October 1977 - 3

Bernstein Fears Press Changes By Karen Weinstein

In an October fifth lecture held in Union College's Memorial Chapel, Carl Bernstein, the retired Washington Post reporter who assisted in breaking open the Watergate case, spoke of the role of the press in Washington and of his experiences of reporting.

Mr. Bernstein complained of the "orgy of self-congratulationn the Washington press has been in the last few years because of Watergate. He sees a significant trend in the press since the Watergate coverup, in that the writers are giving the readers what they think they want, rather than the real news. Bernstein commented on the sudden abundance of gossip and celebrities in the news. The trivial, he says, is taking over the significant.

Mr. Bernstein, who described him- self as a reporter, rather than a historian or a politician, attributes his success as a reporter not to luck, but to his technique. He and Bob Wood- ward, with whom he worked on the Watergate story, used what Mr. Bern- stein described as a police reporting technique. This entailed knocking on doors, talking to secretarial clerks and administrative assistants, and visiting officials and others at their houses, rather than at their jobs. Mr. Bern- stein and Mr. Woodward started at the

; a r l Bernstein, former Washing Post reporter, speaks a t Union College kmorial Chapel. Photo by Jack Bell

top and worked their way down, hat of the two thousand full-time than working from the bottom eporters in Washington, only fourteen Bernstein explained that assigned to cover the Watergate different reporting method and of those fourteen, only four reporters use. While most covered Watergate on an in-

weaknesses and characters. between the C.I.A. and the news

School Ring Orders Due in November

Window Shades Aa~w&cC Venetian Blinds Picture Framing

- By Betsy Pagano

School ring season is here. A representative from the Balfour Com- pany will be in N.H.S. at the beginning of November to take orders.

It will take approximately eight weeks for the rings to come in. The rings are offered for sale to all students, but are primarily for the junior class.

Last June, the former sophomore class voted 2 to 1 to keep the traditional design of the ring. It consists of a shield with four sections and a torch. The torch represents the eternal flame of knowledge that lights the way from ignorance to understanding. The quill section of the shield shows the tools of education. The five stars are the five centralized districts: Alplaus, Rex-

Paint - Wallpaper - Glass 372- 1300 10% STUDENT DISCOUNT 1703 UPPER UNION S'

ford, Craig #2, and Niskayuna Dis- tricts #4 and $5. There is a corn field and a river which flows through Nis- kayuna. The seven bars denote each position on the Board of Education.

The ring was designed by Mrs. Ada Louis in the mid 1950's. Mr. William Louis was the assistant superintendant at the time.

Herff Jones Company previously handled the ring sales, but due to better service and closer offices, the task was taken over by the Balfour Company.

The ring styles and materials vary from sterling silver, which costs $25.10 to the jumbo 10-karat gold that sells for $50. Added options such as autographed signatures or initials range from $2.50 to $6 extra.

NHS Computers Expanding d

By Jon Finke The Prime computer in the Media

Center is expanding service with a second disk drive and outlets for computer terminals in some classrooms.

I

The Media Center has used a federal grant to purchase a second disk drive to increase the memory of the computer. The school also had the upstairs math and social studies class- 'rooms wired for computer terminals.

Niskayuna was one of the first school districts to develop a computer program for students, using facilities supplied by General Electric, SUNY, and BOCES. Last year Niskayuna purchased, with federal assistance, their own computer and expanded the program to include the middle schools.

People interested in the computer should contact Mr. McCambridge or Mrs. Mendelsohn in the Media Center.

The computer is manufactured by he Prime Computer Corp. in Framing- am, Massachusetts. The terminals e made by Digi-Log, Digital Elec-

ronics, and Lear Siegler.


Students Graduate Early to Save Time By Betsy Pagano

Many people wonder why a student would want to graduate from high school in less than four years.

The early graduate program is for those who feel the time saved could be put to better use. A student may want to go straight to college, or work (and possibly go later to college) or travel. The decision requires a lot of maturity and the willingness to work toward the graduation goal.

Eighteen credits are needed for one to graduate from Niskayuna. New York State only requires sixteen credits. Four of these credits must be English, three from social studies, plus a three-year sequence or major (a foreign language, math, etc.). Gym must be taken only for as long as the student is attending high school.

Graduation early is done in many ways. One can accelerate from one- half to a whole year. The combina- tions range from going to summer school to taking two English courses per semester.

By their senior year most students have fulfilled their graduation requirements, with the excepti-on of English, and therefore have a light schedule. Some people feel that this is like a year off from working, whereas dou- bling up on courses gives one experience for the upcoming college work- load.

Graduating early is not for everyone. Some need the extra year in high school. For the many who know what they want, however, i t is worth the extra effort.

Rock Concert Coming By Paul Littman

The Stage Crew will sponsor a rock concert Dec. 9 in the auditorium. Four rock groups will be featured, each with special lighting effects.

Tickets will go on sale at the beginning of Nov. in the sales booth during lunch periods. Advance tickets will cost $1.00, and will be $2.00 at

Little John William Rickard is reunited with his father in Mr. Wright's office after his first day at N.H.S. Photo by Jack Bell

Class of '94 Student Escapes to School By Karyl Dupont John ~ i l i a m and Rana Potter into the

One of Niskayuna's future students school, Dave Armistead and Bob Harri- (class of '94) arrived barefoot, cold, gan began a search for John's home or and wet for his first day in high school, parents. 11 years early, on Sept. 30. The Meanwhile, back in the office, con- student arrived at the end of 6th fusion reigned with the dog wandering period escorted by his pet dog, Rana around and everyone trying to get the Potter, which means frog and dog in little boy to talk. John never said a Spanish. word. When the confusion was just

John William Rickard, 2 years old, about at a peak, the boy's father came was found behind the buses in back of into Mr. Wright's office and claimed the school, playing in the weeds with his son and dog. his dog. John was discovered by 6 Mr. Rickard stated that the little N.H.S. students: Dianna Torrisi, grade boy had made his escape while he was 9, James Armistead, Dave Armistead, changing for work and the mother had Sue Esmann, Hal Wittner and Bob stepped out to get groceries. He Harrigan, all 10th graders. appeared very relieved to find his son

While four of the students brought safe and sound.

Electronics Program Improves By Jon Finke The driving force behind these

The electronics program at NHS is improvements is the new teacher, Mr. getting some much needed improve- White, who works closely with the ments including new equipment, new students and has written a new books, and a teacher who is familiar curriculum for the course. He with new developments in electronics. selected new equipment he thought

The Industrial Arts department has was most needed to improve the purchased some much needed equip- electronics classes. Mr. White was ment to replace some old and de- hired last year to replace Mr. fective equipment, expanded the DeAngelo who retired because of ill course to include solid state elec- health. tronics, and added a program to help The new equipment includes a new some of the advanced students get tube checker, some televison service their se cond class radio licenses. sear * and some new tools.

the door.

I 1600 UNION STREET PHONE 393-0617 SCHENECTADY, N. Y.

.......................................... I

cookies in (own 1

'lovely pastries, 1

WARRIOR, October 1977 - 5

Governor's Committee Advises Moped Safety By Linda Lagerroos

State of New York Governor's Traffic Safety Committee on Mopeds - - the low speed, lightweight cycles whose buzz is the newest song of the not-so-open road.

Maybe you're thinking of buying one. With good fuel economy, moder- ate insurance rates and average prices

Look for a Moped with front and rear shock absorbers. They will keep you in the driver's seat, and in control when you travel on bumpy streets.

Rear view mirrors a r e still being offered as accessories, and they are required equipment in New York. In any case, a mi r ro r~or preferably a

start most models), and in appearance, Mopeds bear a greater resemblance tc a girl's bicycle than to a large motor-

of around $400, Mopeds are increas- ingly popular with city dwellers, teenagers, and people who would rather not spend a lot for a second family car.

The name "Moped" is a hybrid of "motor" and "pedal" (pedals are used to

cycle. One manufacturer advertises the Moped as "maximum fun on a mini- mum investment." Like bicycles and motorcycles though, Mopeds face special hazards in traffic, and all the savings on purchase price and fuel can

mirror for each handlebarÃ‘i a good commonsense purchase. You need to know what's coming up behind you in order to judge traffic properly.

If you are riding a Moped that reaches speeds over 20 miles per hour,

be spent several times on the cost of an accident. Keeping enjoyment high and costs low means taking safety precautions-before starting out, and while on the road.

The first precaution is to purchase a Moped with adequate safety fea- tures. There are state and federal standards which apply to lights, reflec- tors, brakes, tires and controls. A

you will need a helmet in New York State. Under 20 mph, a helmet is still the best piece of safety equipment you can wear. A lot of oped travel is urban travel-the environment of con- crete curbs and pavements, metal lampposts and manhole covers. A head injury can kill you or permanently scramble your brain, whether the accident occurs at 15 or 30 mph.

A helmet with reflectorizecf mate- rial also helps to make you more visible.

Like the helmet, eye protection is required for Moped riders with ma- chines that have top speeds over 20 mph. Eye protection includes goggles, prescription safety glasses, or a face shield. Regardless of your Moped's

conforms to these requirements. On Mopeds sold in New York, the vehicle identification number must be em-

certification label on the steering post must give a vehicle's identification number and state that the Moped

bossed or engraved on the frame as well.

Front and rear drum brakes are

speed, goggles keep dust, pebbles, in- sects and a host of other flying hazards out of your eyes. You are alsc protected from wind and tear-obscurec vision caused by it.

Wear brightly colored clothing heavy duty if possible: long pants, c windbreaker, shoes that will not slit off your feet. Clothes should be

and braking ability. - state of New - ~ o r k Governor's Traffic F- 3

featured on many Mopeds, and they are a good safety investment. Drum brakes give a better overall performance than bicycle-style caliber brakes which grip the tire rim. In rainy weather, the drum brakes are safer. Wet rim brakes lose friction

o r the Young and Contemporary Man I

comfortable, but not loose enough tc catch on the Moped's pedals or chain.

Appearances aside, a Moped is not a bicycle and does not handle like one. Bicycle experience and a test ride a1 purchase time will not make you anc your new Moped "street wise." The

Blue denim and cords MOHAWK MALL Pre-Washed Schenectady. N. Y. 12306 Large Selection of 518-370-2200

Sweaters, Ties, Dress, Flannel and Knit Shirts. Plus other Accessories

Layaway Plan a small

deposit will

purchase

Christmas.

iafety Committee recommends that rou learn your Moped's capabilities ~efore taking it out in traffic.

Find an empty parking lot and iractice starting, accelerating, brak- ng, and turning. If you are used to a ~icycle, you will find that the Moped is larder to pedal until the motor kicks n.

Learn the positions of the brake .and grips and how to apply the-pear rake, before the front, for a moother, safer stop. Once you get sed to the basic operation of the loped, give yourself some practice in teering to avoid obstacles before the eal ones loom up in traffic.

Under New York State law, a loped is considered a limited use ~otorcycle that falls into one of three lasses, depending on its maximum seed.

If your Moped's top speed is 30 to 0 mph (Class A), you will need a cense, registration, helmet, eye pro- iction, and insurance.

If your moped's top speed is 20 mph r less (Class C) you will need a cense, registration, and safety isponsibility-the ability to pay for iy damage or personal injury you may vise in an accident.

A more detailed explanation of the w is available from the New York

tate De~artment of Motor Vehicles.

Pizza- Spaghetti Cold cuts-Subs Del icatessan I terns

Man.-Thurs. 10 a.m.-11 p.m. h i . & Sat. 10 a.m.-12 p.m.

TAKE OUT PHONES: 372-7270

COR UNION STREET

SCHENECTADY MOPED SALES &SERVICE

1008 REGENT STREET(UPPER UNION) Bicycle repairs Sandblasting

SCHENECTADY,N .Y. 12305 Custom Motorcycle

Panasonic bicycles Accessories

Backpacking eqpt . 5% Student discount with this ad for Christmas

6 - WARRIOR . 0 ctober 1977

AFS Offers Different Lifestyles By Melanie Knapp

American Field Service is an organization offered at Niskayuna High School to broaden one's outlook on life, and to experience living in a culture unlike one's own.

This organization sponsors international scholarships for students from 16 to 18 years old. Founded in 1914, the A.F.S. served as a volunteer am- bulance corps in World War I and in World War lI. It began the scholarship program in 1947. - ..

A.F.S. is an active club a t N.H.S. and is full of fantastic opportunities. There are exchanges such as the foreign exchange, which involves the U.S. and 60 countries. The domestic exchange is an exchange within the U.S. These programs take place during the summer, fall and spring.

If you are interested in an exchange or in participating in the excit- ins A.F.S. Club, contact the A.F.S. -

Top Row (1. t o r.)-Mazumi Era,Louise Rod,Ron Abigai1,Dominique Abort; advisor, Mrs. Bette Haller, in room Bottom Row-Sonja Hannne1,Ann Foster.Melanie Knapp C209 for more details. Why don't

Photo Alan Sternstein take part in this worthwhile experience?

Sonja "Keeping Busy" At NHS

Bottom Row

Domestic Exchange Sends Senior to Minnesota By Diane White

Judy Smith, N.H.S. student, is living on a farm while attending school in Minnieska, Minnesota for the first semester of her senior year. Judy, who was chosen as our domestic exchange student, is experiencing life in a small rural community that has less students in grades 6 through 12 than those in our senior class. She will be returning to Niskayuna in January, to finish her senior year of high school.

MARIA SANCHEZ ARRIVES FROM PERU By Ron Abigail

In our school, from South America, this year is Maria Sanchez. Maria comes from Lima, Peru. She is not affiliated with an organization; she came independently and lives with her aunt and uncle. When asked why she wanted to come to the U.S., Maria replied, "I wanted to learn about the U.S. and the people here."

N.H.S. differs from the school she attended in Peru. Her class has 50 students, compared to the 480 in this years senior class. The courses Maria studies are trig, physics, chemistry, biology, economics, music, art and literature.

If you see Maria in the halls, just say a friendly, "Como estas?".

By Melanie Knapp Sonja Hammel, an A.F.S. student

from Germany, loves "to keep busy" and is doing just that as a senior a t N.H.S.

Sonja enjoys hiking and running. She is currently on the field hockey team, and would like to be on the ski team and participate in the French and Latin Clubs.

The school Sonja attended in Ger- many "is relatively the same size as Niskayuna, but there is no confusion in the school halls in Germany as there is

in Niskayuna High." Sonja noted that the teachers move from class to class in Germany while the students stay in the same room.

In the midst of the confusion, Sonja finds that her two American sisters, Calie and Zandia Currin, have helped tremendously.

Sonja is impressed by the freedom of choice in courses here. She explained, "In Germany you don't choose them, you are told what your are taking!"

Swiss Student Values Choice By Melanie Knapp

An interesting senior a t N.H.S. is Dominque Aubort, an A.F.S. foreign exchange student from Switzerland.

Dominque arrived in Schenectady on August 12 after attending a two- week orientation in New York City. She is enjoying her first visit to the United States a great deal.

"N.H.S. people are extremely friendly and helpful" Dominique commented.

In comparing her school in Switzer- land with Niskayuna High, Dominique

is especially impressed by the fact that N.H.S. students can choose their own courses because her school assigned courses, including many language classes, to the students. She feels that N.H.S. is more relaxed and larger than her school a t home.

Dominique hopes to get involved in drama, French and Spanish Club activities along with participation in the tennis team and yearbook. She plays piano and loves to ski and finds that N.H.S. is "full of fantastic opportunities.'


NHS Student Reports on Turkish Lifestyle By Ann Foster

Have you ever awakened to find a cow eating garbage from a can outside your window? Watched a horse and wagon travel down a street along with Mopeds, bicycles, cars and trucks? Looked a t the spires of a mosque silhouetted against a billboard? These are just a few of the sites I saw during my summer stay in Turkey.

Turkey is a European country which is 99 percent Moslem. It is a new country, having gained its freedom in 1923. Because of its youth there are still many old traditions present in Turkish life. While walking down the street I saw women wearing veils and scarves in order to cover their mouths,

Abigail Travels To South America Meets President By Ron Abigail

This past summer I traveled to Paraguay with the American Field Service International Scholarships. It was undoubtedly one of the most re- warding experiences of my life. I spent 9% weeks in South America, traveling through Ecuador, Peru, Chile, Brazil, Argentina, Panama and Paraguay.

I lived in Asuncion, the capital of Paraguay. I had a host brother (16) and a host sister (21). I went to school from 2:00 ti1 6:30 where I attended literature, physics, history, psycology, German, zoology, and math classes. I visited the Iquazy Falls in Brazil and also Itaipu, which will be the world's largest hydroelectric plant.

One of the highlights of my trip was meeting the President of the nation two days prior to my return to the United States.

I encountered many new ideas, customs, words, foods, etc. in South America, all of which added to making it a great experience. It was really fun learning what they thought about some of our customs, when i t always seemed so normal to me and they thought it was so different. One day I made myself a peanut butter and jelly sandwich and they thought I would get sick if I ate it! They also thought putting ketchup on hamburgers was rather peculiar!

This summer was a fantastic experience which I'll never forget. I would like to thank all the teachers and students who helped support A.F.S. last year through our fund-raising drives.

chins, and hair. When greeting an adult, i t is customary to touch the back of their hand to your lips and then to your forehead. Greeting friends is done by a handshake and a kiss on both cheeks. When I returned to America, I found it difficult to restrain myself from greeting people the Turkish way.

Families are very close in Turkey. Relatives often live in the apartment above or in the house next door. Old people are usually sent to live in the oldest son's house. Male members of the family are given the most respect. Past generations of Turkish women could only look forward to being home- makers.

Today's Turkish youths, however, are becoming well educated and my Turkish sisters both plan to attend the state-paid university and enter profes- sional carrers.

The Turks are very proud of their heritage. Turkey is considered the cradle of civilization with remnants of Hittite, Greek, and Byzantine socie- ties. The opulent Ottoman Empire, which flourished for six hundred years, found its base in Constantinople, which is now known as Instanbul.

The Turks are striving to be recog- nized as a modern nation without losing their traditional structure in the struggle. For it is indeed a struggle, the outcome of which is in doubt.

CALIFORNIAN EXCHANGE STUDENT ATTENDS NHS By Diane White

Melanie Knapp, a domestic exchange student from Reading, Califor- nia, recently spoke of the differences between her school at home and N.H.S.

"Our school doesn't have cliques to the great extent tha t Niskayuna does, and it is also less academic and more sports oriented. Every Friday night after football games, the junior class meets in the meadow called 'The Barn,' where we have a ten keg party spon-

IAPAN and DENMARK SEND By Julie Blackmer

Mazumi Era from Japan and Liz- beth Rod from Denmark are Niskay- una's two new Rotary Exchange Stu- dents.

Mazumi Era will be living with the Plateis and Polk families while spend- ing her senior year in Niskayuna. She is studying English, and when she returns to Ushibuka, Japan, Mazumi hopes to have a better understanding and speaking ability of our language. She notices a big difference in school and foods and enjoys Americans and

Ann Parisella Finds ay Jessica Jopp

Ann Parisella, a junior at Niskay- una High School, spent last year going to school in Oklahoma, and made various comparisons between the Okla- homa school and N.H.S.

Ann said of the Oklahoma high school she attended: "14 was different from Niskayuna. There were no free periods for students, so you always had to be in a class. All the students went to school and departed at the same time. You had to follow the same schedule everyday."

She indicated that students could obtain credit for study hall, which had to be spent working, not socializing.

Ann encountered a dustbowl during

sored by the football team. Each class has their own party territory."

Melanie and her Californian friends travel for two hours every weekend to see concerts featuring such performers as Peter Frampton, Paul McCartney, and Elton John. She and her friends also enjoy year-round water 'skiing, surfing, and swimming. Melanie really likes it here and is enthusiastic about her six-month stay.

EXCHANGE STUDENTS

their friendliness. The middle of Lylland, Denmark is

the home of Lizbeth Rod, who is also a senior. She will be living with four different families during her stay in America. Lizbeth especially enjoys soul music, American TV, and milk shakes, which are new to her. She has not only observed our country's ability to develop new ideas, but also has noticed the driving of big cars and the American habit of chewing lots of bubble gum!

Oklahoma Dusty her visit to Oklahoma City, which is the largest city in area in the world. The dustbowl was termed the worst in seven years, and i t left a one-quarter inch of dust on cars, horses, and other outside objects. Ann stated that the dustbowl came on a day that began clear and lasted two days, with swirl- ing winds and red dust.

Ann observed: "Everyone there thinks the state of New York is one big dump from what they hear about New York City. Also, the people were more prejudiced against blacks."

She left deciding that it was nice, and would go back there again if she had the chance.


UNBEATEN WARRIORS GRAB FIRST PLACE By Brian Sherridan

The Warriors beat a tough Colum- bia squad 14-8 to boost their record to 4-0 and claim the S.C. lead with Shenendehowa - one-half game behind.

Andy Sandroni was the work horse of the Warrior offense picking up 136 yds. in 16 carries. Columbia's defen- sive secondary was strong, limiting John Leonard to only 4 completions in 8 attempts.

The Warrior defense was superb, led by hard-hitting Mike Matwizeczto and Pete Primeau. Columbia's running game was stopped cold with only 80 yds in the game compared with 247 for the Warriors.

The first score came late in the 1st quarter on a one yard Q.B. dive by John Leonard. Dan Corken added the conversion.

Columbia came back midway in the 3rd quarter with a 38 yard pass to finish a 65 yard scoring drive. It looked like the game would end in a tie but with 3:20 left in the 4th quarter, Niskavuna had the ball on the Colum- bia 47 yard line. Leonard pitched to Walt Fredericks who threw the ball to Andy Sandroni (33) scores the winning touchdown for the warriors i n their 6-0 Art Sanfillip~o for a 28 yard gain* On shutout of Colonie. Sandroni will be ready for the championship game at Shen- the next play, Dan Corken burst for 14 endehowa. yards to put the ball on the 11 yard line. On the next play Andy Sandroni ran the ball up the middle to clinch a Warrior victory.

on , o , the w i o r s w Gisotti Interprets New Offense play the biggest game of the season as they travel to ~henendehowa. The By Coach Gisotti winner will walk away with the 1977 The changes made on the football defenses who seemed to be able to Suburban Council Football Crown. team this year were made for several predict what we were doing and when

reasons. we would do it. First of all, and of utmost impor- The concept of option football,

tance, are the individual personnel. which includes the wishbone forma- lKitty Corps" --. Keep Swinging The coaching staff feels that size or tion, is complicated in that i t is a By Pat Ferrante lack of size is not important when "wait and see" game. After the ball is

This year's varsity golf team has playing option football. An average snapped the quarterback reads the been appropriately nicknamed "The size line can fare very well against a movement of the defense and deter- Kitty Corps." Coach Paul Bachorz, as larger line with the option blocking mines where his team should go with well as the council, marvel at the schemes that our team uses. the ball. The idea is to run wherever youth of the squad. Second, our team tries to run a the defense shows a hole. Ideally,

Starting as first, fourth and fifth power offense, which requires power- nothing is predetermined and no one, men are three freshmen: Mark Fer- type backs. Our backs are smaller including the coaches and players, rante, Don Barengorg and Dave Barth- than average this year and are not knows exactly where the ball is going. olic. All three proved to be a tremen- really suited for this kind of football. Obviously, this is just a watered dous asset to the team, but a great Third, we felt that we could take down, simplified version of option deal more is expected of them in the the option offense and effectively football. future. Playing third is Pat Ferrante, blend it with some of our best plays the lone girl on the team. Both Pat from previous years. and her brother Mark played in the Fourth, our offense was good last sectionals at Walhalla Golf Club. The year, yet we were unable to make the EASY METHOD second man this year is a consistent- big play. Most of our scoring drives &/I DRIVING SCHOOL shooting junior, Mark Hurley. involved 13 to 15 plays averaging #OW ^ONE 377-6386

The team's 4-8-1 record is not about 3 yards a play. indicative of their ability, but rather Fifth, we averaged only 11 points 3 Hr. DRIVING CLASSES reflects a young squad competing or so per game. The team spent too *"on*, wed- 6:30 p -m. against veteran 'teams in a highly much time and effort trying to block Sat. 10:00 a.m. 1 5 E ~ M STREET

competitive Surburban Council race. everyone in an attempt to run through Driving Lessons Also S=MENECT*OY. N. Y.


Bandura Builds JV Eboters

By Mike Forman With the addition of a new coach

and a nearly all sophomore team, the J.V. hooters have begun a promising season which should provide the 1978 Varsity squad with a strong council competitor.

The team is led by co-captains Ghris Roberts and Dave Adam. Adam, the center halfback, is highly regarded by first year coach William Bandura and with experience could easily become a varsity star next year. Other top performers are sophomores Mark Gray, Jamie Garlaugh and Jim Walsh.

Despite dropping a 1-0 heart- breaker to Bethlehem, Coach Bandura was extremely pleased with his team's performance, "Except for some first quarter mistakes, we really out-played them. Our passing was much better than previous games. All that's left is for the offense to put some in the net," explained Bandura.

It appears that Coach Bandura's transition has been a smooth one and --

Judy Mize prepares to boot the ball for the 3-5 Girls Varsity Soccer Team. that he will become a permanant cog in Niskayuna's rapidly improving soc-

Photo by Allen Sternstein cer program.

VARSITY SOCCER AIMS FOR SECTIONAL BERTH By Mike Wohl

The Varsity Soccer Team, sporting a 2-3-2 record, stands in sixth place in a race in which seven teams are packed between second and sixth place spots.

The Boosters, coached by Tom Buckley, had chances to better their record, but lost to undefeated Burnt Hills in a heartbreaking 2-1, then tied Schenendehowa 3-3 and Scotia 0-0.

Buckley's two inside linemen lead the team in scoring with seven points. Dave Holl has 2 goals and three assists and Jay Givens has 3 goals and 1 assist. Other offensive threats are right-wing Howie Seras and left-wing Mark Gilbert, both with 4 points.

Goalie Matt Cavanaugh, averaging a respectful 2.1 goals per game and 12.6 saves per game, is helped out' defensively by fullbacks Jack Quimby, John Duonoucous and Bob Koshgarian.

The players feel that it is too early to count themselves out of the race. "It's sfiQ early, and wit@ the race still close we have an excellent shot at landing a berth in the sectionals. We have to play more consistent soccer, but we feel we can do it," remarked cocaptains Jack Quimby and Jay Givens.

Jay Givens (right) and Mike Foreman battle for control of the ball with an unidentified B.C. player.

Photo by Allen Sternstein

10 - WAKRIOR, October 1977

Dana Lyons, David Welch, & Alicia Putnam rehearse a scene from Inheri t the Wind. -- Photo by Alan Sternstein

Drama Club Performs Broadway Play By Betsy Pangano

The Drama Club's first of three major productions, Inherit the Wind by Jerome Lawrance and Robert Lee stages November 16 through 19 in The Theatre. Mrs. Jean Kestenbaum is directing the show.

The play's theme reflects the Scopes "Monkey" trial about teaching the Darwinian Theory in public schools. It is based on this real trial with the defense lawyer who was Clarence Darrow and the prosecuting lawyer who was William Jennings Bryant. The lawyers' names were changed for the play.

Money made from Inherit the Wind will be used to pay production costs which include royaltyfees of $150 for

the entire run and to pay for future productions.

The play first opened on Broadway in 1955. It later was made into a movie starring Spencer Tracy. Mrs. Kestenbaum stated, "Inherit the Wind is the most famous play of the 20th century being dramatized somewhere in the country."

There are 43 cast members and a monkey. Dana Lyons, Jim Hasler, Alicia Putnam, Dave Welch and Jim Carman play the leading roles.

The Theatre can hold a total of 800 people in the 4 night run. Tickets will go on sale 2 weeks before showtime outside the English Resource Center during lunchtime and after school. They sell for $1 and $1.50.

36 NHS Students Honored

By Brian Sherridan Recently the National Merit

Scholarship Foundation awarded 36 Niskayuna students letters of commen- dation. This honor is based on P.S.A.T. scores. Many colleges and universities seek out students who have received this award.

Students who received the award this year are Jim Bonaquist, Mike Borom, Jim Carman, John Christian, Henry Claeys, Donna Cohen, Polly Darcy, Mark Defeo, Karlinda Dejnozka, Glenn ~ o e l l , Ben Eldridge, Mike Forman, John Foster, Dave Gar- finkel, Mary Gibb, Carlene Hanson, Evelyn Hart, Maggi Hogan, Eve Jacobs, Clarence Lu, Rich Mihran, Lisa Moffett, Mark Naigles, Andy Northrup, Karen Nybo, Vicki Podbere- sky, MaryEllen Potts, Susan Quine, Barbara Rauch, Philip Schuman, Susan Spang, Sean Steeves, Carl Stocking, Jeane Tice, Ian Titly and Scott Warner.

Sci-Fi Club to Screen Films By Steve Morecroft

Science fiction films are being shown, free of charge, during the meetings of the Science Fiction Club.

The Science Fiction Club with its offshoot, the Star Trek Club, screens movies at their meetings every other Wednesday. Meetings are held in Room D207 a t 3:15 p.m. Advisor to the club is Ms. Harris who also teaches an English elective course in science fiction.

Future screenings will be "The Day the Earth Caught Fire" - Nov. 2, "Transatlantic Tunnel" - Nov. 16, "Journey to the Far Side of the Sunn - Dec. 7, "Hunchback of Notre Dame" - Dec. 21, "Dr. Jekyl and Mr. Hyde" - Jan. 18.

The combined clubs have about 20 members and new members are wel- come.

Key Club Offers Much to WARRIOR, October 1977 - 11

Admissions Officers Community and School By John Dounoucos

The Key Club, a service organization of 50 students in the high school, is perhaps one of the most active clubs in the entire area. The club, sponsored by the Niskayuna Kiwanis, contributes its time and money to various groups both in and out of the school. Faculty advisor, Mr. Stroebel boasts of the $1,000 already contributed to the school during September and October for materials to the custodial department, a new public address system, and school beautification. The club is unusually strong this year. After raising $2,500 in a week from maga- zine sales, the club worked on the bonfire and at Sunnyview with handi- capped children.

John Dounoucos, club president, a l ~ n g with officers Ed Beck, Bob Barnes, and Will Markey are. busy planning the club's schedule for the coming months. Among the plans are a concert by guitarists Mark Mayfield and Steve Rhoads on November 5th; a collection of Christmas toys for the needy during the week of Novem- ber 14th; a submarine sale on October 28th, and the annual semi-formal Christmas dance on December 17th.

New members are chosen each spring by faculty and present club members.

Visit School By Brian Sheridan

College visitations have once again resumed at NHS. Last year 178 colleges and universities frum all o^er the East visited the school.

Mr. Bergin, guidance counselor at NHS says, "The visitations are very useful in that they are a convenient way for a student to learn about a school and have questions about them answered."

What is a college visitation like? Generally, admissions officers come to Niskayuna about an hour before the scheduled visitation. He then talks to a counselor for 15 - 30 minutes, in- forming them of new programs, admission procedures and other new information. Then the visitation begins. The speaker generally talks for 20 - 30 minutes about the college's programs, uniqueness and admission standards. After the presentation they answer questions about the college.

When asked about the objectivity of the admissions officers in their talks, Mr. Bergin pondered, "They generally give a fairly accurate ac- count of what the college is like."

Seniors are excused from classes to attend, but juniors must get permission from their teachers.

NOVEMBER COLLEGE VISITATIONS Tues. 1 8: 15 Green Mountain Tues. 15 10:30 A.F. R.O.T.C.

9:00 New York University 1:00 SUNY Cobleskill 1 1 :30 Sarah Lawrence Wed. 16 12:15 Hobart & William Smith Colleges

Wed. 2 10:30 Hudson Valley Thurs. 17 1 1: 15 Maria Col . (tentative) 1-30 Medaille Col 1 :30 Robert Wesleyn

Thurs. 3 1l:OO SCC Fri. 18 8: 15 SUNY Maritime 1 1 :30 Read Col . (tentative) 1 1 :30 Nassau Col . (tentative) 1 :15 Pfeiffer Col . Misenheiner, N .c. 1 :OO SU NY Oswego 1 :45 SU NY Broekport 1.45 Lesley Col . , Cambridge, Mass.

Fri. 4 9:00 Duke, Durham, N .C . Mon. 21 12:OO Franklin & Marshal I , Lancaster, P< 1 1 :30 Union College Tues. 22 9:00 Salve Regina, Newport, R.I. 1-00 Potsdam 12:30 USAF Academy

Mon. 7 9:OO Kalamazoo Col, Mich. 1 :45 Wheaton Col . Wed. 9 9:OO Catawba Col . , Salisburg, N .C Wed. 23 8:30 Manhattanvil le Col .

10:30 Vasser Mon . 28 8:30 LeMoyne Col . Thurs. 10 8:30 Univ. of Detroit (tentative) Tues. 29 8:30 Allegheny Col . Meadville, Pa.

9:30 Oneonta 1:30 Elmira Col . 10:30 R.P.I. 2:00 Univ. of Dayton, Ohio (tentative) 12:30 Cazenovia Wed. 30 10:30 Husson Col . , Bangor, Maine 1 :00 Hope Col ., Holland, Mich. 12: 15 Georgetown

Mon. 14 9:00 SUNY Fulton Montgomery 1 :OO Champlaine Col .


0.D.HECK SEEKS VOLUNTEERS

By Kathleen Vaughan Volunteers are badly needed at the

O.D. Heck Center on Balltown Road. Recruiters are visiting the area schools in search of workers.

The recreation program needs the most help. Volunteers are needed to help children and adolescents in the wm and the oool. One-to40ne com-

KEY CLUB NEEDS

TOYS

The Niskayuna Key Club, in cooperation with the Christmas Bureau, I -.,

panionship fo; each child is the goal is sponsoring a community project. being reached for. New or undamaged toys and clothes

There are 3 time slots where help are needed to help make this is needed most; Wednesday from 6-8 Christmas a happier one for less fortu-

[PHOTO p.m., Saturday from 9-12 a.m., and 3-5 nate families. There will be a drop-off FEATURE p.m. point in the front entrance of Can you guess this month's mystery

Teenagers and adults are eligible to Niskayuna High School, 1626 Balltown teacher?Answer i n next issue.Last be assistants in the programs. Anyone Rd., from Monday, November 14th month~s answer: D ~ . ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ h ~ . interested in further information through Friday, November 18th. All

1 .Great Pumpkin 9. Dracula 17. Devil 25. Linus 2. Bobbing For Apples 10. Witches 18. Spirit 26. Haunted House 3. Trick - Or - Treat 1 1 . Black Cats 19. Potions 27. Pranks 4. Fortune Telling 12. Bad Luck 20. Party 28. Costumes

5. Goblins 13. Ghost 21 . Bat 29. Elves 6. Halloween 14. Masquerade 22. Monsters 30. Cornstalks 7. Superstitions 15. Spooks 23. Poison 31 . Candy 8. Frankenstein . 16. Jack 0'Lantern 24. Toads

m

iv ii l ! moffett breaks...

Documents