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The Visor
Bishop O’Connell High School Volume 53 Issue 6
Bienvenidos a España
Elizabeth Bloom
Staff Writer
Spring break was a much-
needed rest from the hustle and bustle of
school, sports, and our crazy everyday
lives. However, for thirty-two students
accompanied by Spanish teacher, Ms.
Yanine, it was a new hustle and bustle of
traveling through the many cities of Spain.
The group departed on April
20 and returned April 29. Each day, the
students were able to tour the country
and experience Spanish culture first-
hand. Following the group’s arrival,
they spent the day in Madrid, where they
took a sightseeing tour of the city and
visited the Prado, a museum exhibiting
world-acclaimed art. The second day
they traveled to Toledo and experienced
medieval Spain with visits to the Gothic Columbus, and climbed the bell tower, spent time on the beautiful beach.
Cathedral, San Juan de los Reyes Mon- a total of thirty-two flights, in order to Although the entire trip only
astery, the Church of Santo Tome, and get an aerial view of Sevilla. spanned nine days, the amount of sight-
the Mudéjar-style, Medieval Synagogue. Traveling to Granada, the former place seeing adventures and cultural experi-
In addition they were able to of Spain’s Moorish kingdom, the stu- ences that the group was immersed in
visit a sword and jewelry-making fac- dents were surrounded by rolling hills was immeasurable. From the museums,
tory, which actually was the place that and mountains. They visited the Alham- to the palaces, to even the food, the
had made the swords for the Lord of the bra palace, the most magnificent of all experiences were sharply different from
Rings’ movies. The next day the group the Moorish palaces in Spain, where those of living in the United States.
watched a religious procession that was Isabella and Ferdinand lived for several Junior Amanda Engebritson
animated by the rhythm of drums, dis- years, and the Generalife Gardens. That commented, “The ice cream was amaz-
playing participants dressed in a wide ar- night, they were able to visit a gypsy ing, since it was more of a gelato; the
ray of costumes. Afterwards, they saw a cave and learn how to flamenco dance, only strange thing we ate was paella,
Moorish mosque, the eqivalent cathedral. as well as enjoy a traditional meal and which consisted of shrimp that still had
After leaving Toledo, the stu- watch professional dancers perform. its eyes, full crabs, and squid with its
dents ventured to Sevilla, the capital. Finally, a few days before tentacles.” The trip was a grand suc-
There, they visited the Gothic Cathedral departing, the group visited Costa de cess from beginning to end, truly an
that is the burial place of Christopher Sol and had some fun in the sun as they experience to be remembered forever!
Ciao, Italia! Marilyn Savich
Staff Writer
According to senior Laura
This spring break, a group Reynolds, “The Fanta there tastes a lot
of O’Connell students took a trip to different from what can be found in
Italy. Most of the students on the trip America.”
were seniors, but the group included The streets in Italy were much
underclassmen as well. The group left narrower than those in the States. The
on Holy Thursday and stayed until the O’Connell group also saw a lot of mopeds.
followingThursday. Mrs. Cerniglia and Dinner was also served much later than
Dr. and Mrs. Stabile were the chap- in the U.S, usually around 8 pm.
erones. Everyone agreed that the trip While the students had a
was definitely worth the seven-hour planned activity every day, they still
plane ride; many of the students hope had a lot of free time. For lunch, the
to study abroad in Italy during college. students could go wherever they wanted.
“Every day was a party,” com- Surprisingly, the students did not take a
mented senior Anna Bergin. In bus to get to places; they walked. The
the short time they had, the group hotel locations allowed the students to
took an excursion each day. Dur- reside in the city center or a cultural hub.
See What’s Inside ing these seven days, the group
visited Florence, Rome, Venice,
and Verona. Highlights of the trip
The trip was not only eye-
opening; it was also a great fun. Every-
one agreed that he or she learned a lot
New Girls’ Sport Page 3 included seeing the Pope, visiting
the balcony believed to be the one
about Italian culture during the trip.
Laura Reynolds stated, “I got
Senior Insert Pages 5-12 used by Juliet in Romeo and Juliet,
taking a fresco lesson, watching
a great insight into another culture, and
that was really special.”
Captain America Page 14
a glass-blowing demonstration, Many pictures were taken to pre-
and visiting landmark cathedrals. serve the great memories of the group’s
The group was intrigued by experiences. Even though the group was
the significant differences between mixed, the students got along well, forged
the United States and Italy. new friendships, and had a great time.
Visor May 2011 Editorial Page 2
AdVisor: Dr. Vorbach’s Final Remarks to the Class of 2011 The Visor
Each issue, The Visor asks one member of the faculty or staff to write a piece to share Bishop O’Connell High School
6600 Little Falls Road
some experience with the students of Bishop O’Connell. For this last issue of the 2010- Arlington, VA
2011 school year, Dr. Vorbach shares his thoughts in a letter adressed to the Class of 2011
Published monthly, the student
Dear Class of 2011, newspaper of Bishop Denis J. O’Connell
It is not that easy to recall all was also the fear of the unknown…about High School is a public forum with
the thoughts and emotions that were exactly how the next chapter would work its student editorial board making all
going through my head about this time in out. This fear was crystallized for me just decisions about its content, under the
1983 as I was preparing to graduate from a few weeks later when I found myself in guidance of its faculty advisor.
Bishop O’Connell. It must have been the “boot camp” of “Swab Summer” at Opinions in the paper are not
combinations of exultation and trepidation, the Coast Guard Academy with no time necessarily those of the staff, nor should
of joy and sadness, of reflection and to think, to write a letter, or to talk about any opinion expressed in this public
living the moment. Let me see if I can what was going on with someone I knew. forum be construed as the opinion or
capture a bit of it – perhaps my story I remember my parents’ apparent the policy of Bishop O’Connell High
will parallel your own sense of things. reaction to the events of graduation day. School, unless so attributed.
One powerful recollection I have They must have had their own bundle of
is of greater clarity about how much my grown-up emotions, fears and worries (I Editors-In-Chief
teachers really cared about me. I don’t can now relate to that), but they were so Cait Patterson
know why I was so surprised, but when my obviously happy with me and for me that Alejandra Buitrago
English teacher, Sister Anna Jean, gave me day and I remember feeling good about that.
What wisdom can I offer that Front Page
a beautiful rosary as a graduation gift and Sports
comes out of this reflection and 28 years of Kelly Kundinger
encouraged me to keep writing, all of her
distance from my own graduation? First, Emma Delmontagne Nick Kent
comments on all of my writing across the Maddie Young
year became that much more valuable to me there is something essential at Bishop
O’Connell – always present but sometimes you are going and the people you will Editorials
(she had always corrected and encouraged Campus News
overlooked amidst all the intellectual and meet there…jump in and make your mark. Ana-Maria Hecton
me). I was really moved by that gift. Natalie Eichner
There was, of course, the normal social development taking place – your Finally, enjoy the memories of
Faith. God has a plan for you and is always your time at Bishop O’Connell and draw Health
sort of giddiness about finally being finished Spreads
with you, so continue to pray for wisdom, strength from them – these experiences were Cait Patterson
and “…outta here.” But this was balanced Diksha Bhatia
by a combination of some fear and probably patience, clarity of thought and forgiveness. real, special and formative. This school is Brittany Davey
Second, with the voices of both a better place because you all were part of Entertainment
a little sadness. Bishop O’Connell was by
my parents ringing in my ears I say “… it for four years. We’re proud of you and Leela Gupta
that time a comfortable place for me… Style
real friends had been made and there was bloom where you are planted.” Graduating look forward to hearing of your successes. Megan Brosnan
from Bishop O’Connell definitely God Bless you Class of 2011. Outside News
some worry about whether everything Maria Buitrago
represents change and change can be hard, Sincerely, Imani Hamami
could stay the same with everyone going
off to conquer different mountains. There but you have so much to give to the places Dr. Vorbach Copy Editor
My Last Editorial: Fina11y!
Erin Buckley
Staff Writers
Joe Bender, Elizabeth Bloom, Christina
Chiames, Dina Hamami, Jackie Hughes,
When I graduated eighth grade in Patrick Morris, Audra Nakas, Scott
2007, I wrote a letter to my parents, family Rapuano, Gabe Salas, Marilyn Savich,
members and teachers, thanking them for the Samantha Sison, Sam Snead, Sydney
support they had given me throughout my Speetjens, Natasha Warcholak
grade school years. To do this, I wrote about
an episode from The Fresh Prince of Bel Air.
For those of you familiar with Faculty Moderator
the series, I described a conversation Dan Culler
between Will and Uncle Phil on a camping
trip, when Will compared his life in West
Philadelphia to having only one roller
skate, and always struggling because all of
the other kids had two skates. He then went
on to describe how he would be skating in
circles while other kids would be zooming
past him on their two roller skates. After
the awkward crowd laughter died down,
Will looked at Uncle Phil and said “Thanks
for being my other skate, Uncle Phil.”
In eighth grade, I thanked my
parents for being my super speedy skates,
and also thanked my family and teachers
for always being there as training wheels or
spare wheels when I needed them. Because
I have a really bad case of senioritis, I’m Me, age 5, at my preschool graduation. Although it’s 13 years later, and
going to recycle this analogy to thank
the amazing O’Connell community. I’ve grown a little, I’m sure this is how my parents will see me as I walk
As a student, I am very lucky across the stage on June 2.
to be a part of a community with such for Superdance just this year. I hope you
the opportunities it has given me. Thank
amazing people. Not to make this a sappy never doubt that we are an amazing class,
you, Mr. Culler, for the countless college
graduation “so long, farewell” type of and can accomplish just about anything.
recommendations, (which I would usually
thing, I would just like to thank the faculty So, Class of 2011, I hope you
bring up the day they were due, sorry!).
and staff for their work in this community, dream big, I hope you dance and I wish
Thank you for recommending me for the
and for putting up with us crazy kids. It’s this life becomes all that you want it to
Washington Post program last summer, and
not the name “O’Connell” that gets us such be, and that your dreams stay big and
most importantly thank you for giving me ‘So, let me get this straight, if I
recognition on our college applications and your worries stay small. I would like to
the opportunity to be editor-in-chief this
resumes, it’s the leaders in this community
past year. It has been a great experience let you know that I am always available sign up for Journalism next year,
that fight for us. Whether its lights on our to be your spare wheel on your roller I’ll not only be a beat reporter for
that I will always treasure and look back on
athletic fields or more comfortable skorts, skates, and you can always lean on me
fondly. Thank you to the awesome editors the Visor, with my own byline,
I’ve appreciated knowing that there was when you’re not strong. We are not only
and staff writers. You did an amazing job this
always someone on my side, or someone
year and I appreciate all of your hard work. closing one chapter, but beginning a new but I’ll also satisfy the Computer
to spare an extra wheel. So, thank you to one and always remember that when God and Fine Arts requirements for
Now, as a proud member of
the faculty and staff; from your friendly closes a door he always opens a window.
“hello’s” in the hallway to taking time
the class of 2011, I would like to say graduation. I better do a little
congratulations to my fellow graduates: All graduation clichés aside, I hope you
out of your schedule to help me with an enjoy these last few moments we all have
more digging and get the scoop
we did it! We made it through this crazy
assignment; I’ve appreciated having you together because today is our day, we’re on this.”
journey: we survived the Staph infection
as role models for these past four years. off to great places, we’re off and away!
outbreak, the bird flu, and the swine
And while I’m thanking people,
flu; we beat PVI in just about every way
I would like to thank The Visor for all Yours Truly,
possible, and we raised over $111,000
Cait Patterson, Class of 2011
Fina11y!
Visor May 2011 Sports Page 3
Introducing: O’Connell Field Hockey
Audra Nakas
Staff Writer
Field hockey is not well established in
O’Connell fans and Lady the WCAC. Only five schools, including
Knights interested in sports will be happy Seton, St. Mary’s Ryken, Good Coun-
to know that next fall Bishop O’Connell sel, Holy Cross, and St. John’s have field
will have both junior varsity and varsity hockey teams. Holy Cross has won the
field hockey teams. The athletic depart- WCAC title for three years in a row. De-
ment decided to add the sport after noting spite the small number of teams, however,
interest from many O’Connell girls. The the upcoming season should be challeng-
sport is already overwhelmingly popular; ing.
over ninety girls showed up to a recent “The WCAC is always com-
preliminary meeting, not including in- petitive, no matter what sport,” remarked
coming freshmen who may play next year Coach Wootten.
as well. Girls who plan on playing field
According to Athletic Director hockey next year are already enthusiastic
Joe Wootten, the athletic field renovations about the upcoming season.
will make field hockey possible because “I think it will be great that there
the current football field is not flat enough will be more fall sports for girls to partici-
for the sport. Practices next year will ro- pate in,” commented sophomore Ashley
tate from football to baseball to Tuckahoe Cross. “It will be interesting to see the im-
fields, depending on which field is needed pact of a new sport on the O'Connell com-
for games. While coaches have not yet- munity!”
been selected, the athletic department is More details will come as the
in the procesof interviewing potential season draws closer.
candidates.
Sammy Sison
Boys’ Tennis: You Got Served
Staff Writer
The Varsity Tennis Knights’ first
Position! Serve! Ace! Match win came at home against Bishop Ireton, a
point! The boy’s varsity tennis team began 7-2 win with head players Ed Threlfall and
with a win, and has enjoyed a great start Arturo Garcia leading the way.
to their season. Their record so far is 5-5. Their next game was against Good
Every day after school the Counsel, rersulting in a 6-3 victory. Juniors
team travels by bus to Bluemont Park, Arturo Garcia and Matt Papernik won two
guided by their new coach, Coach Bor- of the games in the doubles’ tournaments.
giaz. Coach Borgiaz is a 2006 graduate After that, Boys’ Tennis continued their
of O’Connell. Many students will dis- winning ways by scoring 8-1 in their next
cover him walking the halls for Secuirty three matches.
or subbing for their classes. He was as- Junior Arturo Garcia said, “The
sistant coach for the David LeMair Ten- best part of OC tennis is winning and
nis Program for four years and head coach having a good time laughing with the
for Sleepy Hollow Racket Association for rest of the guys. Yes, it has been a good
5 years before transferring to O’Connell. season so far; we’ve lost a few times and
Practice is demanding and chal- have also won, but we’re only halfway
lenging but still fun as the players see their there and there’s still time to improve.”
improvwement with each session. OC Boys Tennis finally fin-
According to junior Quinn ished 5th in the WCAC Tournament this
Bergeron, who’s been on the team for two year, with junior Danny Hughes making
years, “Practice is the best; we get to go it into the finals. Hopefully they can fin-
outside and play tennis, and we have a ish even stronger at the States Tourna-
lot of fun. I’m so glad I joined the team. I ment next week. Good job O’Connell
love the game and all the cool cats on the Boys’ Tennis; keep up the good work!
team.”
Visor May 2011 Sports Pa g e 4
Congratulations, Varsity Softball-
onYour8thConsecutiveWCACChampionship!
Final Score Against McNamara: 4-3
Football Fans Ask: No NFL This Fall?
pler terms, the owners want more money,
Patrick Morris but their increase of the NFL’s revenue
Staff Writer would lower the player’s salaries. Some
players understand that if the owners
have more money, then the league’s
The most successful profes- revenue will probably increase based on
sional sports league in the U.S. is the improved stadiums and other marketing.
National Football League. The league This will also increase the player’s prof-
boasts constant attendance revenue its. Other players and the Players Union,
and huge television contracts. As soon however, want more retirement benefits
as most teams begin training camps in and do not want the owners to increase
August, the NFL captures the attention their percentage on the league revenue.
of sports fans across the entire country. This disagreement has gone on
This excitement continues through the much longer than originally anticipated
regular season, then playoffs, and even- and has now gone on past the 2011 NFL
tually culminates in the Super Bowl, Draft. If the lockout does cancel the
which is one of the biggest spectacles 2011 season, the league will lose mil-
of the year. This season, though, may lions of dollars and many lower level
be different. The league is currently employees of teams will likely lose their
experiencing a lockout, which is put- jobs. The economy will also be affected.
ting the entire 2011 season in jeopardy. The NFL sells more merchandise than
The rumors of a lockout began any other league. Many stores that sell
two years ago when owners decided to NFL merchandise will make less money
opt out of the league’s collective bar- as fans are unlikely to purchase mer-
gaining agreement after the 2010 season. chandise for teams that are not playing.
Most people believed the owners and the Fans across the country are all
NFL Players Association would reach hoping both sides will make an agree-
an agreement but after this year’s Super ment and end the lockout, but if not,
Bowl no agreement was in place and in Sundays this fall will feel very different
March the NFL was shut down. In sim- and the NFL may be changed forever.
O’Connell Golf Team Takes It to the Green
Gabe Salas “He is a great man and I’m
proud to say that I had the chance
Staff Writer
to play for him,” added Guerere.
When asked to describe Coach Snyder in
Now that it’s spring time, one word, Clark simply replied, “Boss.”
O’Connell’s golf team is throwing The players and their coach struggled
on their polo shirts and hitting the at times this season, going 2-6 in league
course at Washington Golf to defend play and an overall 4-6, but they did
their home turf. O’Connell’s small- have a few shining moments. They
est team, containing ten members, is crushed rivals St. John’s and Bishop
hoping to take down local rival PVI in MacNamara, and in the Virginia State
their last match of the season on May Catholic Tournament they placed third
19. The team is headlined by seniors out of the seven teams that were there.
Chris Clark, Alex Guerere, CJ Corey, The players are ready to take down the
Patrick Quinn, Zach Irvin, and Kevin Panthers this week, and they all want
Crook. With six seniors on the team, to send their coach out with a bang to
there’s a lot of leadership and experi- make sure that his last game here at
ence out there, and it translated into a O’Connell is a memorable one. For
fun and productive season. The team is the six seniors it will be the last time
coached by former AD Coach Snyder, they step on the course as a Knight,
and this will be his last year coach- so they are hoping for the best pos-
ing the team, making the season that sible result so that they will also have
much more meaningful for his players. a good memory of their last match.
“We weren’t as successful as we “We all understand the significance
had hoped to be, but it was a great way of our last match,” voiced Quinn. “We
to end the year and I really enjoyed need to win for the seniors and for our
being part of Coach Snyder’s last coach, and I can guarantee that our best
year here at O’Connell,” said Irvin. golf will be played this Thursday.”
Visor May 2011 Class of 2011 Page 5
la ss of 2011
C
Who We Are, ,
’re Going
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Visor May 2011 Who We Are Page 6
Seniors Do Service!
Audra Nakas victims, a recent breast cancer diagnosis in
Staff Writer a friend’s family renewed her motivation.
“We can’t understand how much
O’Connell students and faculty pain they’re going through, and sometimes
are well aware of the school’s commitment we just don’t know the right way to say
to serving others and correcting injustices. that we support them,” said Mosier of
While all students are required to complete cancer victims. “The club gives O’Connell
a service project in order to matriculate, a way to say that we are thinking of our
many students choose to do service on loved ones with cancer, and we are
their own. This has been especially true working to bring an end to this disease.”
with the Class of 2011. From participating While Teens Against Cancer
in the Diocese of Arlington WorkCamp in battles an illness, Project Unify aids people
the summer to completing Eagle and Gold with mental and physical disabilities.
Award projects, numerous seniors have Senior Julia Willis had always wanted
distinguished themselves in service outside to help people like her aunt who have
the school. Many seniors have also chosen developmental difficulties. After doing
College Commitments
to serve within the school by participating research online on how to get involved with
in SCA, working on a Superdance the Special Olympics, Willis saw a list of
committee, running the blood drive, or clubs that promote the dignity and respect
participating in clubs such as the Pro- of people with disabilities, including
Dina Hamami up by the University of Delaware to play Project Unify. She was inspired to bring the
Life Club or the Ecology Club. However,
for the Blue Hens. Ian Decker was picked club to O’Connell, which became a reality
Staff Writer up by Penn State to swim. Jessica Burk
some members of the Class of 2011 have
shown special initiative by establishing in the spring of last year when she and
During the past few months, every was signed to the University of Maine friend Keara Jones became co-presidents.
their own clubs that address issues about
senior has been anticipating graduation to play softball for the Black Bears. CJ Since then, activities have included a
which they are opassionate, such as
and been looking forward to attending Corey is playing soccer for Towson. Sarah movie night fundraiser, a Special Olympic
Teens Against Cancer and Project Unify.
their colleges of choice this fall. But there McCarthy committed to Georgia State soccer invitational at Paul VI, and a wildly
The Teens Against Cancer Club
are a handful of seniors here at O’Connell University to run Cross Country. Josh popular exhibition game of two Special
started as a result of senior Sara Merkin’s
who also signed National Letters of Intent. Trimble is attending Virginia Tech to play Olympic basketball teams during halftime
personal experience of losing her father
Seniors James Essex, Brooke Moore, football. Sophie Giaquinto committed to of a boys’ varsity basketball game at home.
to cancer. While she aspires to become a
James Bourne, Larry Savage, Ian Decker, Cornell to play softball. Nick Morabito For Willis, the club has
nurse, she wanted to do something sooner
Jessica Burke, CJ Corey, Sarah McCarthy, and Michael Katz both were picked up been an opportunity to give an often
and asked fellow senior Kaitlynn Mosier to
Josh Trimble, Sophie Giaquinto, Nick by their chosen colleges to play baseball. marginalized group of people a voice.
help her make a difference in the lives of
Moribito and Michael Katz all received Nick will be attending Lincoln Memorial “I saw the club as a way to advocate
cancer patients and their families. As co-
scholarships to their schools to play University to play for the Railsplitters for those with intellectual and physical
presidents of Teens Against Cancer, Merkin
the sport in which they excelled. while Michael Katz will be playing baseball disabilities and to educate the O’Connell
and Mosier have organized several events
James Essex is attending Norfolk for “the Tribe” at William and Mary. community on the challenges they face
and fundraisers. Last year’s activities
State University, to play baseball for Michael’s coach here at on a day-to-day basis,” explained Willis.
included a toy drive for Children’s Hospital
the Spartans. Brooke Moore committed O’Connell, Coach Hart, said, “Michael Although the original founders
and “Be Brave and Shave,” an event raising
to Christopher Newport University to is an extremely talented athlete, a great of the Teens Against Cancer Club and
over $7,000 in which onlookers donated
play Volleyball. It came as no surprise to student, and most importantly, a good Project Unify are all graduating this
money to watch participants shave their
anyone who attends the basketball games, guy. He deserves this opportunity and I year, they have left a legacy that future
heads for the cause. This year they raised
that seniors James Bourne and Larry know he will make a lasting contribution classes will hopefully continue. They
over $1,500 for breast cancer patients by
Savage were picked up by their chosen to the William & Mary community.” are examples of the Class of 2011’s
selling baked goods as well as pink lacrosse
colleges to play basketball. Bourne will All these seniors are very lucky ambitious, hard-working, and passionate
jerseys. Mosier says that while she was
be attending Winthrop University to play to have their college journey rewarded as character, that has made a lasting impact
already passionate about helping cancer
with the Eagles, while Savage was picked a result of their incredible athletic talent.
Class of 2011: Top 50 Memories
on the O’Connell community and beyond.
As the 50th graduating class from Bishop O’Connell, the senior SCA counselors were kind enough to list the Class of 2011’s fifty top memories.
1.The second winter break of
junior year (Snowmageddon) the white polos Dark Knight 35. Basketball games
2. Welcome Back Dance 13. The cafeteria serving soda 23. Homecoming 2010: 36. Football games
2010-2011 Freshman and Sophomore Masquerade 37. Every time we beat PVI
3. Power Outage during first years 24. Homecoming 2011:Under 38. Being a part of the Spirit
periods, that lasted 3 hours 14. Being able to cut in line the O’Cean Club
during sophomore year during lunch periods 25. Paying to be punished in 39. The Rise of Twitter
4. Ice Hockey States- League 15. Music on Fridays during detention 40. Kanye West interrupting
Champions 2009 classes 26. Dr. Vorbach becoming Taylor Swift at the VMAs
5. Teacher food poisoning 16. The joy of chasing down principal sophomore year 41. Chipotle Craze
from Panera and consequently Mr. Starace to sign your paper 27. Father Hudgins and the 42. The fear of getting a pass
having subs for all classes license Student Lounge to Student Life
6. Swine Flu Epidemic of 17. Mr. Cools’s bear stories 28. Being Father Luis’s last 43. The Glee obsession
2009-2010 18. Having the day off from freshman class 44. Pep Rallies!
7.Getting sick from the Swine school for President Obama’s 29. Superdance 2008:Turn 45. Winning Pep Rallies
Flu vaccine Inauguration up the Cure and the power and getting donuts the next
8. Homecoming Float-making 19. Fina11y not having to take outage that shortened it morning in homeroom
Senior SCA the Walk of Shame through 30. Superdance 2009: Wild 46. Staph Epidemic 2007
9. Paying $20 to get your the cafeteria in your P.E. for the Cure 47. Senior Retreats in Front
phone back from student life uniform 31. Superdance 2010:Blast Royal
10. Weird Trend of Silly 20. Watching a movie during Off for the Cure 48. Video Announcements
Bands class 32. Superdance 2011:This is a 49. Helping Father Hudgins
11. Remodeling of the 21. Homecoming 2008: Job for Superdance with the underclass retreats
cafeteria Knight on the Beach 33. Economy Tanking 50. Consecutive Girls’
12. Finally being able to wear 22. Homecoming 2009:The 34. Mr. Crivella…enough said Softball Championships
Visor May 2011 Who We Are Page 7
Spotlight On: The Valedictorian and Salutatorian of 2011
are so many wonderful opportunities at
Sam Snead and Elizabeth Bloom O’Connell, but sometimes there is just
Staff Writers not enough time to do everything. I never
liked knowing I couldn’t participate
Q1: How does it feel to be salutatorian/ in an activity, but I learned that time
valedictorian? management allowed me to do the most
AN. I’m humbled because I know how without overextending myself.
intelligent, creative, and hard-working my Q11: What was your favorite thing about
classmates are. high school?
CR: I feel honored to have received such AN. My favorite part of high school
an award from such an intelligent class, was the new freedom without the heavy
and I am proud of my accomplishments. responsibilities adults have and the
Q2: What does being salutatorian/ opportunity to discover myself. I think
valedictorian mean to you? I’ve learned more about myself in the past
AN. It’s a blessing. At the same time, I four years than I have in my entire life.
don’t want to make too much of it because CR: My favorite thing about high school
what matters is that I do my best, no was attending sporting events, either as a
matter how I compare to other people. player or as a supporter of friends.
CR: Valedictorian means to me that I Q12: What is one thing you will always
represent a very intelligent class, and that remember from your high school
I have high expectations in the years to experience?
come. AN. 6th pd. AP English Lang. and Comp.
Q3: What has your high school experience We had way too much fun in that class.
been like? CR: I think I will always remember the
AN. My time at O’Connell has been the Audra Nakas and Carly Robinson are all smiles about being friends I made in high school and the
best four years of my life! Salutatorian and Valedictorian. teachers who influenced my academic
CR: My high school experience has been they never nag me about schoolwork, and career because these people made my high
Q6: Are you particularly proud of any
filled with many long nights of homework they always pray for me. school enjoyable and helped me become
special accomplishments or recognition?
and studying. I was very dedicated to my CR: My family has supported my rigorous who I am.
AN. I think my biggest accomplishment
academics, which was stressful at times; academic career throughout high school. Q13: If you could sum up your entire
has been stepping up as a leader in the
but my friends and extra-curriculars, such My parents have driven me to various high school experience in one word what
Pro-Life Club. I had fantastic officers
as JV softball, helped me relax and enjoy libraries and science fairs, and they have would it be?
and a lot of support, but it still required
my four years here. understood the large time commitment I AN. Epic.
that I take risks and put myself out there.
Q4: Who has been your favorite teacher made for school work. CR: Unforgettable.
Although I made mistakes and some ideas
and why? Q9: How were you able to balance school Q14: What is one thing that you wished
didn’t work out, we were successful in
AN. Dr. Leblanc, because he challenged and your social life? you had done in high school that you
reaching several of our goals.
me to think critically from the very first AN. By forgoing sleep. didn’t do?
CR: I am proud of receiving principal’s
week of freshman year. I really like how CR: Balancing my schoolwork and AN. I wish I’d played a sport. I tried out
list every year along with several
he emphasizes the “why” and “how” social life was not always easy, but I for tennis freshman year but didn’t make
excellence and effort awards.
behind history. He’s also hilarious. have understanding friends who were the team, and after that I never found the
Q7: What was your family’s reaction to
CR: My favorite teacher is Mrs. Cerniglia also going through the same demanding time to keep taking lessons.
this?
because I love her interesting class schedules. I dedicated a lot of my time CR: I wish I had participated in SCA, but
AN. Very happy, although not happy
lectures. She has been my English teacher to my studies, but I also have many I never seemed to have the time for such a
enough to buy me a car.
for two years, and I feel she has influenced wonderful memories of just being with large time commitment.
CR: My family is very proud of my
not only my writing, but who I am as a friends. Q15: Where are you going to college?
accomplishments, especially my
student in general. Q10: What was the hardest part about AN. I’m majoring in Psychology at The
parents. I have received phone calls
Q5: What is your favorite subject and high school? Catholic University of America, but
and congratulations from other family
why? AN. The hardest part of high school beyond that I have no idea what God has
members too, but my favorite is my
AN. Probably English because I love was balancing the workload and extra- in store for me!
brother’s email response: “Nerd.”
reading, writing, and discussing. curriculars. CR: I am attending the University of
Q8: How has your family supported you
CR: My favorite subject is Biology CR: I think the hardest part of high school Virginia in the fall. I plan to major in
throughout the years?
because I hope to continue studying is knowing one’s own limitations and Biology and History and hopefully attend
AN. They encourage me to explore my
Biology in college to become a developing time management skills. There veterinary school after I graduate.
interests and make my own decisions,
veterinarian.
Seniors Enter Speech Contests... And Win!
Oral Essay Contest; there, national
Samantha Sison winners could win up to $30,000. The
Staff Writer Voice of Democracy Program has been
around for 61 years, giving students a
O’Connell students have won, yet chance to write about the veterans and
again, another essay and oratorical contest! issues of foreign and domestic wars.
Each and every year English teacher Mrs. Seniors Yvonne Bowser-
Wentzel encourages O’Connell students to Cabellero (1st place- $100), Vitale Christy
enter different essay and oratorical contests (2nd place- $50), and Zach Irvin (3rd place-
within the Arlington and Metropolitan $25) all won awards for the Sons of the
district. O’Connell has been a member of the American Revolution Oratorical Contest
debate and speech league, the Washington/ in the Fairfax Chapter. Marcus Thomas
Arlington Forensic League, since the won 3rd place ($25) for the Sons of the
beginning of the school’s history. Mrs. American Revolution Oratorical Contest
Wentzel has entered her students into essay in the George Mason Chapter. The Sons of
and oratorical contests for over 18 years. the American Revolution work to provide
Each year, an average of $10,000 the younger generations awareness of past
is awarded to O’Connell students. This history as well as the sacrifices of war,
year, nine students won at state level and while making sure people understand the
nine went on to the national level. In total true meaning of patriotism. Neil Roberts achievements, “For a student to qualify
there were over 200 O’Connell applicants won Honorable Mention ($75) for the George Mason, in which he was awarded in two different national events is
who signed themselves up to be in this Voice of Democracy Oral Essay Contest as $100; then he went on to win $1000 when unprecedented in my 18 years at O’Connell.
year’s 25 oratorical and essay contests. well as 2nd place ($50) for the Sons of the he placed first in the state competition. In Our community is very proud of Matt’s
Senior Audra Nakas won 1st place American Revolution Oratorical Contest. July Matt will move on to the National accomplishments.”
in the Virginia Right to Life Essay; her For the first time in O’Connell’s Championships in Durham, N.C, where he Since the beginning of
prize was $1000. The Virginia Right to history, one student qualified for two will embark on an all-expense paid trip to O’Connell’s history, students have shown
Life has been organizing prolife events for different national oratorical competitions: start off his summer break. Last but not least, great talent and ability in writing and in
over 50 years while defending the right Matt Retterer. Matt was awarded 1st place Matt also became the top metro finalist in the speech. Mrs. Wentzel and the O’Connell
to life and speaking against abortion and in the American Legion Oratorical Contest, Washington/ Arlington Catholic Forensic community aspire to continue this proud
contraception. winning $100 for his speech on the Bill League and will be moving to the National O’Connell tradition. As Mrs. Wentzel is
Andrew Page won first place of Rights. He also won the Sons of the level in late May in Washington, D.C. fond of saying, “You can’t win if you don’t
($500) for the Voice of Democracy American Revolution Oratorical Contest at Mrs. Wentzel said about Matt’s enter!”
Visor May 2010 Where We’re Going Page 8 Visor May 2010 Where We’re Going Page 9
Greg Jones
Nicholas Lengyel Jack-Henry Bush Northeastern University
Virginia Regina O’Connor Jake Sieve Delon Etheridge Michigan Indiana
Christopher Newport Univer- University of Mary Washington John Cusumano Michigan State University Elon University
sity Carla Ross Josh Trimble Florida Boston College
Alex Rudolph William Ratledge Ed Threlfall University of Notre Dame
Katelyn Catalfamo Full Sail University Fabio Recine Kaitlynn Mosier
Alexandra McKay Eily walsh Clark University
Brooke Moore Madeline Albrittain Katherine Terwiliger Sean Coffey Madeleine Young Ball State University
Christopher Szentkiralye Andrew Kwalwasser Kiersen Commons University of Tampa
Jack Hall
Amherst
Delaware University of North Carolina at Kevin Lauerman
Nicole Casaneda Elizabeth Karpe Lana Nguyen University of Delaware Chapel Hill Purdue University
Morgan Crissy Vitale Christy Sarah Kolodzy Lee Schilling
George Mason University Lauren Jennison Alexander Spagnoli Dia Barber
Nicholas Kent Shannon Scully Jacksonville University
Aldo Penafiel Isabelle Marquez University of North Carolina at
Andrew Tran
Anthony Jimenez
Tania Lopez
Northern Virginia Commu-
Greensboro Nebraska
Robert Gooch Creighton University
Arianna Rodriguez nity College Eilis Smith
Erin Murphy Ana Williams
Jonathan Nguyen Lees McRae College
Anthony Whitlock
Joseph Hickey
Joseph Patrizio
Courtney Moxness
Jessi Bowers
District of Columbia
David Obeid Georgetown University
Lindsey Pelland
Matthew Katz
Jonathan Norris South Carolina Carolyn Fonzi
Sean benedict Clemson Julia Paegle
Megan O’Dwyer Yianno McCarthy
Michelle Vidal Jacqueline Hughes Catholic University of America
Michael Ford Brian Gerrard
Michelle Yabes Audra Nakas
Felicia Gonzales University of South Carolina Federica Dao
Nicholas Hentschel
Nile Otu Old Dominion University Christopher Clark Lauren Fitzpatrick
Patrick Nguyen Abid Joyia Kara Sims American University
Peter Jaworski Brittany Davey Patrick Quinn Marilyn Savich
Rachael Wright Deirdre O’Rourke Ryan Kuhn
Richard Nary Emily Ratay College of Charleston
Sherry Bustillos Erin Wald Emily Ferguson West Virginia
Sophia Lopez Kristina Bonfils West Virginia University
Louis Zinzi Joanne Johnson
Zachary Mascorro Brian Vela
Catherine Gauthier Marcus Thomas Wofford College Ethan Tomaselli
Sara Valdiveso Elizabeth Rhee
Natalie Gomez Jacob Ramos
Lindsey Goodwin Sarah Welch Winthrop University Stephanie Maldonado
Taylor Young James Bourne Tyronne Croswell
James Madison University Imani Hamami
Addison Snidle
Aaron Cotchen
Alejandra Buitrago
Caitlin Patterson Radford University Georgia California
Emma Delmontagne Andrea Portillo Emory University California Institue of Technol-
Jason Makoutz Catherine Weaver Ashley Stumvoll ogy
Jessica Battaglini Trey McElhattan Georgia State University Timothy Bennet
Jillian Falle Emily Underworrd Sarah McCarthy
Jorge Panozo Katie Witt
Josie Mai Kyle Lewis Tennessee
Katherine Nirschl Laura Dannemiller Ohio Lincoln Memorial University
Katie Arthur Lucas Nester The Ohio State University Nick Morabito
Lauren Young Patrick York Alessa Garcia
Lisa Huynh Sejal Patel
Kent State University
Madeleine Bourne University of Virginia Kellie Coleman Texas
Margarita Dimatulac Amanda Toulme Texas A&M
Mary Hull Carly Robinson University of Cincinnati
Steffen Pawlosky Teresa McAlum
Max Roewer Casey O’Reilly
Franciscan University Southern Methodist University
Melissa Kosciow Catherine O’Neill
Maddy Bernero Christina Chiames
Michael Feneley Eva Tuska
Ryan Umberger
Michelle Van Horn
Nathan Cvrk
Luke Escobar
Natalie Eichner Pennsylvania Texas Christian University
Neil Roberts Suzanne Kenney Anthony Hawkins
Penn State University Courtney Taylor
Warner Rose Larry Savage Carly Ahlstrom University of Dallas
Patricia Barry
Rechelle Rafols
Yvonne Bowser-Caballero
Matt Retterer
Catherine Flach University of Southern Florida Maine Lauren Albrittain Carolina Villarroel Marisa Elias
Stephanie Guenther Camille Harman Mount Ida University Maddie Bate DaBin Lee
Renee Rojural Virginia Commonwelth Richard Gorog Tammy Brien Robert McKee Houston Claure
Rosanna Sevillano
Ryan Lee
University
Alejandro Nina-Tapia Maryland University of Maine Alex Hammer Ian Decker Arizona
Sara Merkin The College of William and Mary University of Maryland Jessica Burk Rebecca Tyrpak University of Arizona
Brieanna Cerda Ryan Zemke
Teddy Faulk Brian Hur Sam McGrath
Christopher Harding Shante Tyler
Zoe Criley
Anna Bergin
Colin Brideau Brittany Hoyle
Dylan Vorbach
Shaq Munnerlyn
New York New Jersey Rachel Battaglini
Villanova
Melina Ford
Connor Scully
Diksha Bhatia James Higgins Stevenson University
New York University
Georgian Court University Breanne Hayes Kansas
Michael Katz Corey Walker Alice An Alicia Robinson Julia Willis Kansas State University
Michael Wisiewski Elthson Torres
Longwood Gabriel Perrez-Ferrer Norfolk State University Mount Saint Mary’s University Cornell University Thomas Warring Charles Spencer
Anna Lopez-Riveira Jamal Johnson James Essex Anthony Spellman
Danny Zdancewiz
Deon Thomas Rhode Island St. Joseph’s University
David Robinson
Rebecca Flester
Dominick Iacobucci Jamie Chichester Randolph Macon College Sophia Giaquinto
Providence College
Eric Engebritson Janos Leitner-Wise
Katherine Keegan
Nathan Autry Gray Posey
Tyler Stauder
Fordham University Keara Jones Indiana University of Pennsylvania
Shelby Cook
Wyoming
Kelly Quinly Bridgewater College Jae Lee
Johnson &Wales University University of Wyoming
Mary Schranck Linh Ta Laura Reynolds Maryland Institute College of U.S. Military Academy at West University of Pittsburgh
Svetlana Kilian Sydney Mann
Patrick Morris Marcella Krywicki Art Catherine Braun
Virginia Wesleyan College Point Katherine Romero
Rebecca Nigro Megan Nieto Hyeoh-ah Lee Leela Gupta
Dylan Stokus Scott Rapuano
Thomas Macnamara Natasha Molina
Richard Cremin Towson University Johns Hopkins University Duquesne University Undecided
Kent Hannigan Robert Ujevic
Samantha Weigle Roanoke College Neil Corey
Maia Nieto
North Carolina Nicole Cline Wes Robinson
Marymount University Meghan Gadell High Point University Kimberly Zarnick Alex Guerere
Alejandra Pena Tammie Trinh Syracuse University Drexel University Sacha Brenac
Alyssa Coombe Taylor Rittue Mississippi Brittany Stumvoll
Alexis Johnson
Clair Jones
Aman Testfay Tim Rausch
Alabama University of Mississippi Niagra University
Rishi Sharma
Anastasia Blow Ariel Garayar
University of Alabama Kelly Kundinger Kiefer Hickey
Holly Schulz
Jay Carroll
St. Vincent College Other
Belen Selassie Virginia Tech Patrick Simms
United States Marine Corps
Alexandra Nihill
Brendon Sheiry Rochester Institute of Technol- Kara Bonini
MercyHurst College
Brian Hay-Stuart
Darwin Emmanuel Colin Scott
Kelsey Barger
Auburn University
Massachusetts ogy
Kevin Crook
East Carolina University
Presley Nardella
Dan Courtney
Michael McKeon
Tommy Farrell
Jaclyn John Elizabeth Rivlin Boston University Claire Griffin
Jacqueline Hernandez Frank Whitsell Bridgt Spurlock St. John’s University Sarah Martinez United States Coast Guard
Madeline DeGeorges Christine Yi Brian Coffin
Mary Mubiru Gabe Salas Andrew Page
Visor May 2011 What We’re Leaving Behind Page 10
O’Connell Students Inspired by Nature
Natalie Eichner serve various birds, ranging from a Great
Editor Blue Heron to a Swamp Sparrow. Most of
the students had never been birding before
Teachers know how difficult it and they were extremely surprised by what
can sometimes be to get teenage students they saw on the trip.
excited about something new. So when “Being out in the middle of a pre-
two faculty members in the science depart- serve amongst all these different types of
ment at Bishop O’Connell High School in birds I didn’t even know existed in our area
Arlington decided to open up the oppor- really flabbergasted me. Virginia is filled
tunity for O’Connell students to go bird with so much wildlife, right in our back-
watching, they did not know what to ex- yards!” exclaimed sophomore Julie Olafs-
pect. Teachers Nolan Britt and Bill Car- son.
penter hoped not only to help the students Freshman Jenny Zinzi agreed,
prepare for the upcoming “Vertebrates of adding, “I didn’t expect to see so many
Virginia Test,” but also to get them excited different birds that I had never seen be-
about nature, introducing them to a live ex- fore. It was really interesting and also fun
perience that can’t be obtained from video to observe them for the first time with my
games or on the Internet. friends.”
Together with the Northern Vir- The students were birding for
ginia Teen Birding Club (whose members nearly five hours, moving from the Bell
include students from Flint Hill, Thomas Haven Marina to a nearby park called
Jefferson High School and John Paul the Huntley Meadows. In total, they observed bird watching. He hopes to inspire his
amount of enthusiasm that these first-time
Great), fourteen freshman and sophomore 31 different species of birds, as well as young students, just as he was inspired as a
birders displayed on the excursion.
biology students, accompanied by Britt other animals, including a Common Snap- young child.
Britt found himself inspired by
and Carpenter, met along the Potomac Riv- ping Turtle and a muskrat. Both Britt and “You never know who will be
nature at a very young age and has turned
er near Belle Haven in Alexandria to ob- Carpenter were pleasantly surprised by the interested in nature unless you take them
this inspiration into a life-long hobby in
outdoors,” commented Britt.
One Final Mass for the Class of 2011
Joe Bender
Staff Writer
A lot of work has been put in to
The Baccalaureate Mass is a make sure that the Baccalaureate Mass is
long standing tradition for graduating se- a spectacular event, reminding the gradu-
niors. O’Connell’s seniors this year will ating seniors “where they are going with
gather for one final time on Sunday, May Christ as their cornerstone.” Mr. Crivella
22, at 9am in the school auditorium to has been charged with making sure the
celebrate their Baccalaureate Mass and tabernacle looks incredible. Many others,
then gather as a community for breakfast. such as Mr. Buckreis and Mrs. Cerniglia,
The Mass itself celebrates and have been putting forth a great amount of
gives thanks for those who have de- effort into making sure everything goes
voted their lives to instilling new knowl- smoothly. Several other speakers have been
edge and wisdom upon their charges, the lined up besides Fr. Hudgins, who will be
youth, and the result of their endeavors. celebrating the Mass. Kevin Lauerman, the
The practice of having a Bacca- senior class president, will be addressing
laureate service is popularly believed to the class. The keynote speaker will be Mrs.
have started at Oxford University in the Wentzel’s daughter, Julia Wentzel Whar-
year 1432. This practice started because in ton. Wharton is an O’Connell alumna
those days, students had to deliver a sermon who set up an independent Catholic school
in Latin in order to graduate from the uni- in Blacksburg, Virginia back in 2003.
versity. Thanks to most of the early univer- The seniors look forward to cel-
sities in America being focused on training ebrating one final Mass together before go-
ministers, the practice leaped across the ing their separate ways before graudation.
pond and became a mainstay in America.
Individual Teams, Individual Banquets
Scott Rapuano las commented, “I understand why some
Staff Writer people don’t like the sports banquets, but I
think it’s more of a big deal for the athletes
For the first year, O’Connell has to be honored in front of the entire school
decided against holding a general sports than just their team.”
banquet for spring and winter teams, elect- It is true that cancelling the large
ing to have the teams do their own indi- sports banquets could reduce some of the
vidual sports banquets. This means that lustre associated with the recognition of
instead of hosting a large evening event of the athletes, but the smaller, more intimate
all the spring or winter sports there are only events may make them more specific to the
going to be team meetings with parents to interests of that particular audience.
award MVP, Coach’s Award, and any other Some teams have decided to
awards given by that particular program. combine with other individual banquets to
The most likely reason for this make the event a little larger, but still rela-
change of program is because the experi- tively small. The boys and girls lacrosse
ence of sitting through all of the teams’ teams have planned a lacrosse banquet for
awards and presentations was not popu- all boys and girls players to attend so that
lar with some students and parents. Some participants can be recognized in front of
thought that they should be able to simply a larger crowd than just their own team-
watch their team’s awards without having mates. This is a good middle ground be-
to see the rest of the season’s recipients. tween a full sports banquet and individual
Frank Whitesell receiving an award for his accomplishements with the
Because of this, O’Connell has decided to meetings because there is still some pres-
varsity track team at a previous Sports Banquet. discontinue the general sports banquet. tige, but without all of the waiting to get to
Senior hockey player Gabe Sa- each team’s recipients.
Visor May 2011 Mr. Snyder Page Page 11
A Farewell to an O’Connell Legend
Christina Chiames has been a member of the O’Connell
Staff Writer community for nearly 37 years. During
his time at O’Connell Snyder served as
On May 1, 2011, a barbeque was a teacher, coach, and friend to over a
held in O’Connell ‘s main gym to honor generation of students and faculty. Most
Athletic Director, Coach, and Teacher students will remember him as the Director
Darrell Snyder. Snyder was joined by of Athletics and as the golf coach. Last year,
his wife, Barbara, whom many students Synder was inducted into the Arlington
know from the Student Life Office, as Sports Hall of Fame for his work as coach
well as numerous friends, co-workers, and and athletic director. Snyder, however, was
O’Connell alumnae. Many members of also the man who took care of the athletic
the athletic department attended, including fields and scheduled sporting events.
Coach Wootten and Coach Orndorff. At the party, Coach Snyder was
Teachers who are friends of the Snyder’s presented with new golf clubs by the
like Mrs. Cerniglia, Dr. and Mrs. Stabile, commissioner of the league, Jim Leary.
Mrs. Renaghan, Mr. Martin, and Sister His passion for golf is well-known.
Anne Marie were also present at the event. It was also announced that the Golf
Coach Wootten reflected on Championship of the league would be
the barbeque saying, “The retirement named after Coach Snyder for his hard
party was a great success with over work and service to the league. Kevin Fay,
225 people from DJO, the league, and chairman of the O’Connell Board made a
Arlington County to say thank you speech thanking Snyder for all he has done.
for all that Coach Snyder has done.” Finally, Coach Ordnorff concluded
Earlier this school year, the with a speech with a highlighting the impact
administration announced that Coach and contributions of Snyder throughout
Darrell Snyder would be retiring as Athletic the O’Connell community, especially in
Director at Bishop O’Connell. The news athletics. The event was a great success,
came as a shock to many students, faculty, honoring and highlighting the hard work
and alumnae, especially since Snyder and achievements of an O’Connell legend.
An Overview of Coach Snyder’s 36-Year Long Career
Joe Bender
Staff Writer Athletic Director for Bishop O’Connell,
in 1992. He became the first-ever recipient individual Hall of Fame, the latter both as
a position he held until halfway through
of the J. Dallas Shirley Award in 1995, an a football coach and as an athletic director.
A legend in the O’Connell the present school year. In his time
award given for exemplary service to the As Coach Snyder retires,
community is retiring after 36 years of as athletic director, Snyder has done
WCAC. The WCAC Athletic Director O’Connell says goodbye to someone who
dedicated and faithful service to this everything to keep the Catholic League
of the Year in 1995-96 was awarded to has been a shining example for everything
school, and in particular the athletic intact while giving everything he had, and
him and he was even named Honorary that O’Connell stands for these past 36
community. That legend is Coach Snyder, then some, to the students of O’Connell.
Chairman of the City Title Game. Coach years. The Visor, and the whole O’Connell
a man who has guided the golf team to a Coach Snyder has won many
Snyder has also been inducted into the community, wishes Coach Snyder well and
pair of WCAC Championships and a half other awards in his time with the athletic
Better Sports’ Club of Arlington’s Hall thanks him from the bottom of their hearts-
dozen state titles, a man who has guided the department. He was named Better Sports
of Fame and also Bishop O’Connell’s for everything he has done for the school.
football team to seven state titles and their Club of Arlington’s Sportsman of the Year
only championship victory in the WCAC,
a man who faithfully directed O’Connell
Athletics from 1980 to very recently. For
all Coach Snyder has done for O’Connell,
the Visor and the rest of the O’Connell
community salute him and wish him well.
Coach Snyder came to Bishop
O’Connell in August of 1974 as a history
teacher and the new head varsity football
coach, fresh from a nine-year stint at Flint
Hill, where he was the athletic director,
head football coach, head basketball coach,
and even the head baseball coach, all at the
varsity level. Snyder’s teams won the next
four state titles, from 1974 to 1977; then
they took a year off before winning one
more state title during his first stint as head
coach. From 1974 to 1981, his teams posted
a 55-33 record, an impressive .625 winning
percentage. Coach Snyder was also named
Virginia Independent Schools State Coach
of the Year 3 times during this period.
Coach Snyder had a second run as
the head football coach at O’Connell from
1994 to 2002, adding more awards to his
resume. He added a WCAC title in 1994
and a pair of State titles to his incredible
record. He was also named Better Sports of
Arlington Coach of the Year in 1995, WCAC
Coach of the year in 1994 and 2000, and
Virginia Independent Schools State Coach
of the Year in 1994. Overall, Snyder’s
record was an impressive 103-76-2.
In 1980, Coach Snyder became
the head coach of O’Connell’s golf team.
In his tenure as the golf coach, he has
won two WCAC championships and six
Virginia Independent Schools State titles.
In each of the years his teams won ‘States,’
Coach Snyder was also named Virginia
Independent Schools Coach of the Year.
Mr. Orndorff presents Coach Snyder with a photograph of the Coach and his wife
Also in 1980, Snyder was named signed by the faculty and staff.
Visor May 2011 Farewell Class of 2011 Page 12
Que Dieu vous bénisse, mes chers élèves! To my one and only sweetest Kindergarten Class, to my incredibly
-Madame McCarty grown-up former 2nd graders, to my favorite 8th grade Midsum-
mer Night’s Dreamers, to my most Romeo and Julietest freshmen,
Kinder: my Huck Finn in 4 minutes juniors, and to The Most Amazing Super
It has been such a privilege to be with you for Awesome Senior Class of 2011,
four years. I will miss you immensely. I have
loved watching you grow from tentative freshmen Keep your tummies to the table, cover your mouth when you
to young adults who are ready to tackle the world sneeze, remember your manners, lead belongs in your pencil not
(or at least life after O’Connell). Know that I have imbedded in your hand, and for Heaven’s sake be sure to take
learned as much from you as you have learned your MLA guide with you. Say your prayers (not just when you’re
from me. You all have kept me coming back to desperate), and Above All Things... Always remember that YOU are
teach and edifying my profession! loved; always remember TO love; and always remember that you
I will never forget any one of you and please keep are worth waiting for (so slow down!).
in touch and know that I will always be here for I will always love you!
you. Be well, my students. Make the world a bet- - Momma O
ter place each day that you live.
A Job Well Done---Class of 2011---As You Lead, Others Will Follow
Mit viel Liebe,
Frau Stabile Trust your academic preparation to be the best, that will propel you to succeed
in all your endeavors and assume leadership roles at the university, community,
Seniors! state and federal levels, with a global impact. Your preparation at DJO has posi-
tioned you to make global and cultural connections; your “interconnectedness”
will make the world a better place. The uniqueness that each of you possesses
I’ll miss you and I’m proud of you. I’ll is a God-given gift of strength. Set your short and long term objectives and let
have more time on my hands without no man, woman, or institution ever block your path to success. You may have to
go around, under, or over, but do what you need to do to make it happen. Your
you here, but I’ll still miss you! strong spiritual center of gravity will be the compass that guides you. Continue
Mrs. Tara Brown to go forth and make a difference and please remember to always reach out to
those in need with a helping hand, as many of your teachers, counselors, adminis-
trators and staff personnel at DJO did for you. Thank your parents and guardians
for the love and support they have given you. I salute the talented Class of 2011.
To my AP Economics class: You are all “5’s” God bless you!
to me! Best of luck, future economists! Dr. Daniel Stabile
Mrs. Moore My prayers are with you
May your future be an
as you greet the endless adventure, your past be
DJO Class of 2011 - possibilities of college and a cherished memory and
Heed the advice of Mark Twain:
“Twenty years from now you will
life as adults. May your our time now be a gift.
be more disappointed by the things good works flow wherev- That is why it is called
the present.
you didn’t do than by the ones you er you find yourselves.
did do. So throw off the bowlines. Dr. Trina Sensenig -Ms. Theresa Koons
Sail away from the safe harbor.
Catch the trade winds in your
¡Enhorabuenaatodoslosgraduandos!Wishingallofyou
sails. Explore. Dream. Discover.”
muchsuccessatcollegeandmayyoualwayswalkwiththeLord
at your side,
Congratulations on all your ac-
Best, Senora BorGes
complishments and know you are
“Be not afraid.” (Lk 1:30--it is said that these words appear 365 times in the
leaving here having made an Bible. Once for every day of the year)
impact! God bless you! You’ve been a great class! :)
Best Wishes, Miss Cohen -Fr. Hudgins
Dear Class of 2011,
“Many happy trips to the I have thoroughly enjoyed getting to know
ends of the Earth...and on your you. From senior retreats, to chapel visits, to
time spent in the coffee house, you have always
return flight, make sure to stop been very courteous, friendly and helpful. Best
by and tell me how it went.” wishes to each of you as you continue on to your
next adventure. I will miss you!
-Mr. Crivella Sincerely,
Mrs. Ellis
Visor May 2011 Health Page 13
Do You Have Seasonal Allergies? Here’s Relief!
Dina Hamami seasonal allergy medicine like Claritin,
Staff Writer Allegra, or any other antihistamine (anti-
inflammatory) medicine.
Every fall and spring, about 36 Another over-the-counter medi-
million Americans find themselves suf- cine that can be taken is Astelin, which is a
fering miserably from all the pollen from saline (salt water) spray to wash the pollen
trees, flowers, and weeds. This kind of al- out of your nose.
lergy, called a seasonal allergy, is differ- If you want to avoid taking over-
ent from allergies to food, medicines, or the-counter medicines, you can take a
molds. more natural route. Antihistamines are
Seasonal allergies are milder than not the only way to find relief from aller-
food allergies, and not as serious. The gens. Herbal supplements are a great al-
most common seasonal allergy comes from ternative to taking over-the-counter medi-
pollen. Pollen can be found on things you cines. The newest craze in Europe is the
wouldn’t expect, such as furniture, pets, herb butterbur (Petasites hybridus). This
and clothes. It can be transferred from pet natural supplement is similar to Claritin
hair and even human hair to places like and, if taken 4 times daily, can act as an
beds, which can make your seasonal aller- anti-inflammatory. Taking herbal supple-
gies more miserable. Sometimes you just ments or other home remedies are nice
can’t seem to get away pollen, but the itchy, because they aren’t expensive and can levels are higher in the hot, humid weather
es are they won’t. According to weather.
watery eyes, congestion, and sneezing can work just as well as antihistamines would. rather than cooler, windy, or rainy days.
com, pollen levels are usually higher in the
come to an end if the following steps are Anyone can develop allergies, and Although not everyone suffers
Metro area because of the extremely hot
taken. moving to a new area makes it more likely from allergies, everyone who does can
summers and the exceedingly cold win-
On webMD.com, Doctors rec- for allergies to develop. It usually takes find relief. Everyone’s bodies react dif-
ters. This variation in seasons causes pol-
ommend people follow a series of steps around 2-3 years to see if the allergens in ferently to types of medication or supple-
len levels to be significantly higher in the
to minimize the effect of pollen and other these new surroundings are bothersome. If ments, so it takes a little bit of trial and
spring. And it has been proven that pollen
allergens by taking some over-the-counter after 3 years allergies don’t develop, chanc- error to find what works best for you.
What’s A Skin Gun?
Sam Snead
the skin gun, this device was brought to
Staff Writer the attention of the public as a very useful
alternative for burn victims. Though it is
It’s not a science fiction movie, still under development, a prototype of the
and it’s not a painful procedure. The spray- spray-on skin gun has treated dozens of
on skin gun is reality, and is completely patients already.
painless! If a person has suffered skin The spray-on skin gun takes the
damage from a burn, the spray-on skin gun stem cells from a healthy part of the body,
has it covered: helping the skin damage mixes them up with a solution much like
disappear and making it look like the burn spray paint, and then literally sprays the
was never there. solution back onto the affected part of
Adult stem cells do marvelous the skin where it is needed. The solution
things for the body and for one’s health. and stem cells when mixed together are
These tiny microscopic cells help rebuild blue, but when sprayed over the skin, the
and regenerate the organs, blood, intestinal blue spray changes to the natural color of
tissues and skin. In 2008, the spray-on skin the skin. This action takes only hours or
gun was created by a plastic surgeon, Dr. days, depending on the burn, to provide the
Fiona Wood, and scientist Marie Stoner. healing of the affected area. This procedure
This instrument was used for test purposes, is safe and easy, continuing to pique the
only because no one really knew whether interest of the public, and also helping
it would work. Only three years later, after encourage burn victims to consider this
National Geographic did a segment on procedure.
Safe Sun Tips for Summer
Natasha Warcholak
Staff Writer Wheeler of Noggin.com recommends
taking a cold bath, which will take
Summer is almost here! When away the pain, instead of a shower after
envisioning the good times of summer, returning from the beach because “the
hanging out with friends, sleeping in late, pressure from the shower will make that
eating ice cream on a hot day and going sunburn on your shoulders feel worse.”
to the beach all come to mind. Beachgoers She also advises stocking up
enjoy swimming, going on the boardwalk on Aloe Vera, another way to lessen the
and playing volleyball in the sand; but serverity of the burn. WebMD.com adds
most people come for the sun. Tanning can that staying out of the sun from 10 am
be healthy for the skin because it provides to 4 pm, the hours of strongest sunlight,
Vitamin D but it can also be very dangerous may prevent many burns. Some other
when exposure exceeds the healthy level. helpful ways to prevent sun overexposure
Harmful exposure to UV rays can cause include wearing a hat and sunglasses.
skin cancer and premature aging. Wearing It’s also beneficial to avoid
sunscreens such as SPF 5 or 10 barely tanning beds because they can damage
protects the skin. Even on overcast days, skin with the same amount of UV rays
most of the sun’s UV rays make it through as the outdoors can. The tan may look
the clouds. Although the lasting effects nice now, but the long term effects to
may not show up visibly for several years, your body, such as skin cancer, are too
skin is damaged a little every time it’s substantial to ignore. Since 80 percent of
overexposed to the sun. Doctors recommend lifetime sun exposure is done under the
at least SPF 15 for minimal damage. age of 18, high school students should be
In case of a sun burn, Jordan especially careful when out in the sun.
Visor May 2011 Entertainment Page 14
Captain America: A Promising
Start to the SummerBlockbusters
The film stars Chris Evans as
Steve Rogers, a young man who wants to
Patrick Morris serve his country during World War II but is
Staff Writer not physically fit enough to join the Army.
The government asks him if he would
participate in an experiment that would
Superhero movies are always a allow him to fight for the U.S. Rogers
big draw every summer, and this year will agrees and undergoes a series of chemical
be no exception. Marvel is heavily relying injections to become a super soldier.
on its superhero team, The Avengers, to He is then known as Captain
make bank at the box office. We have America and travels to Europe to fight off
already seen Iron Man and The Hulk on the Nazis. The US does not know that Hitler
the big screen; this year the remaining has also created a version of the “super
two members, Thor and Captain America, soldier” formula and used it to transform
have movies coming out. Thor is currently one of his closest confidents, Johann
in theatres now and Captain America: The Schmidt, to become a figure known as the The movie is said to be similar in In 2012 Marvel will release The Avengers,
First Avenger will be released on July 22nd. Red Skull, from a mask Hitler has given tone to 2008’s successful Iron Man and will which may be the biggest superhero film of
However, this is not Captain America’s him that resembles a red, mutated skull. be released in 3D. After the release all four all time. All four heroes will be included
film debut. A movie was made in 1990 The Red Skull is played by Hugo Weaving. members of The Avengers will have had and it will feature the same cast from the
but was panned by the critics; Marvel The film also features Tommy Lee Jones feature films and Marvel will start to focus previous four movies. For this summer,
hopes this year’s version of Captain and, as in other Marvel films; Samuel L on a possible blockbuster for next summer. though, first enjoy Thor and then later check
America will be much more successful. Jackson will reprise his role as Nick Fury. out Captain America: The First Avenger.
Spears and Minaj Make a Fierce Duo on the Femme Fatale Tour
Dina Hamami
Staff Writer
In March of this year, Britney Jessie and the Toy Boys and Nervo. This all-
Spears announced that she will be go- female cast is bound to keep the audience
ing on tour this summer. This will be on their feet and dancing the entire time.
Spears’s first tour since early 2009. She This tour has chosen an apoca-
announced that she and Enrique Igle- lyptic theme, based after the song “Till
sias will go on a 26-city tour beginning the World Ends.” Although there isn’t a
on June 16th in Sacramento, California. definite set list yet, fans should expect to
Hours after the tour was an- hear Spear’s newest singles from her most
nounced, Iglesias backed out. No one recent album, Femme Fatale. Some songs
is sure why Iglesias dropped out, but fans will definitely hear are “Hold it Against
another huge star, Nicki Minaj, took Me,” “Till the World Ends,” and a couple
his place and will be performing at songs that were excluded from the CD, like
every stop of the tour with Spears. “He About to Lose Me” and “Criminal.”
Spears is known for her outra- According to mtv.com, Spears
geous concerts that continually entertain said this is the most excited she has ever
audiences and with Nicki Minaj by her side, been about a tour. So it’s safe to say that
we can only expect the best for this tour. the tour, just as the revival of her career,
The opening acts for the tour are should be very entertaining.
Big Sean Takes Over the Rap Scene
Gabe Salas
Staff Writer merely about making money, enjoying
yourself, or dealing with the problems
For the last decade or two, rappers such as that come with being a hip-hop icon.
Eminem, Dr. Dre and Jay-Z have dominated He also begins every one of
the hip-hop scene, releasing numerous his songs with a shout out to Detroit’s
albums and gaining fan bases that stretch west side and G.O.O.D. Music, thus
from coast to coast. But recently, some acknowledging the two things that
new artists have entered into the game, brought him to be where he is today.
and are now taking America by storm. For every Big Sean fan across the
Rappers such as Wiz Khalifa, country, the date to circle is July 21,
Mac Miller, Wale, J. Cole and others have when he will be releasing his debut album
stepped out of the shadows to release Finally Famous: The Album. Previously
highly publicized mix tapes that have rap set to hit stores May 3, the album is one
fans across the country hungry for more. of the most anticipated of the summer;
Last year, rapper Big Sean released Finally and while it isn’t expected to reach the
Famous Volume 3, the most anticipated “gross” levels like Lil Wayne’s “Tha
work of his career that propeled him onto the Carter 4 reached, it should do pretty well.
list of top “underground” artists. Now, with The album is said to feature
his album set to release this summer, Big artists such as Pharell Williams, West,
Sean, a.k.a. Sean Anderson, may just pass Chris Brown and others, which should
all of those other guys and cement himself and artists John Legend, Common and Kid respect amongst his fans because he’s make for a good supporting cast on this
as one of the top artists of this decade. Cudi. Soon after, Sean signed with Island known to be one of the “realest” rappers out freshman effort. West will handle most
Artist and Producer Kanye West made Def Jam Records and released three mix there, meaning that he doesn’t pretend to be of the production, and it’s rumored that
an appearance on that same radio station tapes, all consisting of the name, “Finally someone he’s not; he just tells it like it is. this could be his best work since his
one day which allowed Anderson to meet Famous.” These two words can only Many rappers over the years production of Jay-Z’s The Black Album.
West and give him a sample of his music. describe the jubilance that Anderson has, have strayed away from what made Students in the area can also
After realizing that the twenty-year-old knowing that he has finally made it to the them famous when they hit it big, in catch Sean this summer as he makes
“Big Sean” was something special, West top, and all of his dreams of becoming order to keep the revenue coming; but an appearance on Wiz Khalifa’s
signed Anderson to his record label, a famous musician are within reach. Anderson doesn’t give any signs of summer tour which makes a stop in
G.O.O.D. Music, which consisted of West Anderson has gained a lot of this because so many of his songs are Merriweather Post Pavillion on July 24th.
Visor May 2011 SADD Club: Obituaries Page 15
BRADY All persons here are purely fictitious person created by the SADD Club
to help inform people of the dangers of drunk driving and other de- LUKAS
Gwenyth Brady structive decisions. Every year, the SADD Club runs “Dead Day,” Karl Lukas
A young, fruitful life was ended by where they symbolically “kill” a certain number of students to cor- A wonderful future, a glorious life,
a drunk driver. While on her way to respond to the number of people who are killed by drunk drivers every ended prematurely by a drunk be-
school, Gwenyth’s car was clipped year. The student body is then again reminded of this during the SADD hind the wheel. That is how Karl
by a drunk driver on his way home Assembly the next day. The SADD Club, which stands for Students Lukas left this world. After being
after a night spent in the bars. Her Against Destructive Decisions, seeks to help bring awareness of the able to walk away from the wreck-
car flew off the road and crashed, dangers of drunk driving and other dangerous actions that endanger age, Lukas collapsed lifelessly, the
with the impact inflicting horrify- the lives of both the person engaging in the action and innocent by- victim of a brain hemorrhage. A
ing injuries upon her. She was still standers. high school track star, Lukas was
breathing and had a pulse when an planning on going to Hofstra Uni-
emergency response team reached versity. Many fellow students were
the scene, but she was pronounced inspired by his leadership and ath-
dead on the way to the hospital. letic ability during his time at Bish-
Gwenyth will be missed by the op O’Connell High School. Many
O’Connell community, where she people had talked about how with a
was popular, having been named little more work, Lukas could have
captain of Varsity Cheer squad and been taking shots at Usian Bolt and
Homecoming Queen this past year. Tyson Gay’s records. Unfortunate-
ly, that will never happen as now he
rests six feet deep. He is survived
by his father and his brother, both of
whom he was very close to.
ESPOSITO
Helen Esposito
Helen was a gifted violinist who
ROTH Sean Roth
was planing on attending Julliard in
After sustaining injuries in a head-
the fall. However, her college plans
HONG JORDAN
on crash with a drunk driver who
were ended when she was struck
crossed the center line of the road,
by a teenage driver one night, who
John Hong Steven Jordan Roth died after spending two days
had spent all night getting drunk
John Hong sustained major inju- Steven Jordan died from injuries on life support. Roth is survived
at a party. Helen was the pride and
ries as a result of a horrific impact sustained in a collision with a car by his family and his good friends.
joy of the O’Connell Music Depart-
with a drunk driver. His body was driven by a drunk driver. He is Roth was just about to become an
ment, aweing everyone who ever
thrown from his vehicle, inflicting survived by his parents Josiah and Eagle Scout, after doing his Eagle
appeared at one of the band con-
mortal wounds. He was pronounced Michelle. Jordan’s death stole a Project to help bring awareness to
certs the past four years. Everyone
dead at the scene. An ambitious promising future from the basket- muscular dystrophy. This effort got
who knew her raved about her tal-
tennis player, he played for Bishop ball star, who had signed with Duke a lot of support from the O’Connell
ent with a violin and also how she
O’Connell’s varsity tennis team and University to play basketball in col- community, especialy the Athletic
would lay down everything to help
aspired to further his career past the lege. His story is filled with tragedy, Department. His leadership, friend-
a friend in need. Her selfless attitude
high school level. He is survived by as he overcame two broken legs to liness, and overall charm will be
led her to being a trusted advisor to
his parents, both passionate ten- receive his scholarship and now his remembered as the O’Connell com-
anyone who requested her help. The
nis fans who helped inspire Hong life has been taken by the careless munity mourns his passing. He is
Music Department has been emo-
to dream and work to achieve his actions of a drunk driver. Even with survived by his parents and his
tionally destroyed by this tragedy
dreams. the disheartening leg injuries, Ste- three younger sisters, one of whom
and is working to together enough
ven was still rated in the top 5 na- is currently a freshman.
to give her a farewell concert. She
is survived by her parents and four tionally for basketball recruits. He
siblings.
JESSUP
will be missed.
VENSCOE
Kelly Venscoe
Smith Jessup Kelly Venscoe was just pulling out
GORDON
A popular fellow in and out of the
Bishop O’Connell community,
LEVITT of the Macy’s parking lot after fi-
nally completing her search for the
Smith Jessup was a young man of Haley Levitt perfect prom dress when she was
Annie Gordon While riding home on her bicycle
great promise, a person who excelled blindsided by a teenage driver high
Annie Gordon was a beloved mem- after a long night spent practicing
in making other people smile. All on marijuana. She received fatal
ber of the O’Connell community lacrosse, Haley was struck by a
of those things defined Smith Jes- injuries in the accident, ending her
who was tragically stolen from this drunk driver who veered out of her
sup, a person stolen from us when dreams of leaving O’Connell with
life through her unfortunate deci- lane while careening down a hill.
he was struck by a drunk driver. Af- a cap and gown at the National
sions. She had left a party where Haley was not the greatest player
ter surviving for several days in the Shrine. This active member of SCA
she had consumed an exorbitant on the team, but was the heart of
hospital, Jessup finally succumbed and Yearbook leaves life with a
amount of alcohol and was walk- the team, inspiring her teammates
to his wounds and left this world. number of friends, all of whom are
ing through Old Town on her way whether or not she was on the court
Jessup will be remembered as a devastated by her untimely demise.
home. While she was walking by the or on the bench. Levitt’s leadership
practical jokester who engineered She is survived by a large family,
pier, she tumbled into the river and helped the team to topple giants in
all of the greatest pranks these past all of whom are very active in the
drowned. Despite being considered the sport. Haley’s coach was ap-
few years. His brand of humor led O’Connell community. The student
an “average Jane”, Annie was very palled at how he had seen her just
students to uproarious laughter and body’s memories of her will be dot-
well known among the O’Connell minutes before and now she was
disciplinarians to wrench out their ted with her wonderful smile and
community. Everyone knew of An- gone forever. The girls will devote
hair. O’Connell will be a sadder the fantastic leadership she brought
nie and her smile and was shocked the rest of their season to her mem-
place without Jessup being here to to every school event. Her death
to hear of her frightful end. She is ory as they try to win a WCAC title.
make people laugh. He is survived leaves a hole in all our hearts. Her
survived by her mom and her two She is survived by her mother, who
by his parents and by his cousins, funeral has not been announced but
older sisters, both O’Connell gradu- was always cited to be her driving
who are also current O’Connell stu- it will definitely be packed.
ates themselves. force.
dents.
Visor May 2011 Style Page 16
Good-Bye Visor Editors!
Spotlight On: Alejandra Buitrago and
Emma Delmontagne
Front Page Editor
Cait Patterson (Zach Galifianakis) or McLovin?
A: McLovin
Q: Favorite Visor Memory? C: McLovin, He’s my dream boyfriend
Alejandra: Probably when we were both Q: One thing people don’t know about
assigned- well we were just named, you?
editors-in-chief. Both: We’re not related! We’re not twins!
Cait: My first Superdance issue. We’re not sisters or cousins, and we don’t
Q: Plans for after high school? look alike!
A: Well, I’m going to James Madison Q: What princess or superhero would
University, like Cait. Definitely studying you be?
abroad! A: Okay, well, I have both. I would be
Q: Will you be involved in journalism Batman because he’s just a regular man;
in college? he doesn’t have any weird superpowers or
Both: yes whatever. For princess, I would have to be
Q: Real Housewives of Orange County Rapunzel because she gets the guy in the
or Beverly Hills? end and she has great hair.
A: OC C: I would be Ariel because when I was
C: Beverly Hills little I liked how we both had red hair.
Q: Thoughts on Mr. Culler? Superhero- Wonderwoman!
A: Sweetheart Q: Future advice for the new Editors
C: Uhh… Come back to me! [Later] My A: Bring food! If you bring food, they will
favorite quote of his, “I’m a high roller!” come.
Q: Would you rather date Alan Garner C: It will all work out!
Extra thanks to Mr. Culler!
Another awesome year for the journalists!
Nick & Maddie; Sports
Emma; Front Page, Leela; Entertainment
Imani; Outside news, Diksha, Spread
