Kevin Steinberger - Contributor

The unofficial motto of the United States Postal Service “Neither snow nor rain nor heat nor gloom of night stays these couriers from the swift completion of their appointed rounds” could be used to describe the work of the Monmouth Regional High School journalism team. which consists of interviewing and attending events in any possible condition to collect news and information for the interest of the MRHS community.  

The process of completing an edition of the Falconaire is tremendously more difficult than most would expect. The skills necessary primarily revolve around a great deal of broad knowledge as well as English and computer skills. Every Falconaire journalist is able to write comprehensible, to the point, objective, and truthful material in a limited amount of time. The journalism team works extremely hard for the Falconaire, interpreting news and at the same time commenting on the students’ and staff’s opinions. Hard work usually helps out, but specific traits and skills are needed to handle any position on this team. The talent of the journalism team deserves to be recognized and credited. However, as the class of 2008 approaches its final weeks, the journalism team will lose a critical group of seniors. 

As said by most of the team, this year’s group was like a family, publishing eight issues of the Falconaire each year. Unlike seasonal sports teams, the Falconaire seniors have non-stop work throughout the whole year and have created a memorable “togetherness,” says senior Editor-In-Chief Sarah Boyd. 

Boyd has been a part of Falconaire her whole time at Monmouth Regional and has played a key role. Boyd says that her four years on the Falconaire team will be the most unforgettable aspect of her high school experience, being that this team has offered so much to its dedicated students.

The Falconaire has also given students the opportunity to use their independence as well as imagination. Staff writer Joe Maiullo, known best for his back-page comics, says that his favorite part was how “the Falconaire encouraged freedom and creativity.” Online Editor Christine Tynes along with Layout Editor Randy Strauss agree, saying they were able to use their creativity to develop the online version of the Falconaire, a landmark achievement that debuted this past January. 

The Falconaire helped members become better writers and allowed them to express their ideas about important situations. Staff writer Julie Rutan says, “The Falconaire has made me develop as a writer, being required to write many different kinds of articles.” 

Staff writer Arthur Lee had a similar experience. “Journalism helped me for my English class quite a bit…I was also allowed to express my feelings on issues that were important to me,” he says. 

Journalism has even helped pave a career path for students. “This class has definitely influenced my choice to major in writing,” says staff writer Miranda Wyatt.

As they move forward, these students are leaving plenty behind which they will definitely miss.  Sports Editor Matt DenBleyker says, “I will miss the pressure put on by the deadlines.”  

Although next year’s the team can look forward to Michelle Futerfas and Evan Gallinetti returning as senior co-Editors-in-Chief, the end of an era means rebuilding for the Falconaire team. 

As the final issue of the 2008 Monmouth Regional Falconaire closes out the year, World News Editor Emalee Rodriguez speaks for all in this journalism crew in saying, “I am going to really miss our little Falconaire family.”

 

*Online Exclusive

This maybe the last post I make on here as the year has now drawn to an end. We leave you with the last scoop of the year, Issue 8. Issue 8 will be out in print tomorrow morning, just in time for the finals. All the stories are up along with some exclusive stuff (but you already guessed that, right?)

It’s been a really fun year writing for the paper and becoming an editor was a nice surprise. We hope all of you readers have enjoyed everything we done this year from the launch of this amazing site to the publishing of perhaps some of our best issues yet. Have a great summer summer everyone - stay safe and cool. To all the seniors, good luck mates - you are all now one step closer to having the world in your hands.

If you have any comments or memories to share, feel free to post them as a comment*. We may even feature a few.

Until next year,

Stephen Weber

- Technology Editor

 

*Comments are subject to approval

Dear Readers,

      As we present to you the final issue of the Falconaire for the 2008 school year and the last issue of my high school journalism career, I am reminded of what this publication has always inspired in me and what these qualities mean to Monmouth Regional as a whole.  

       Our identities as writers, editors, and layout members afford us the unique opportunity to engage you in the high school experience and, in some cases, to improve upon it.  As such, we close each year hoping that we have provided you eight publications that have informed you, entertained you, and made you stop to think—whether it was about the latest ID policy, the lunch menu, or an international controversy.  Few things have been more rewarding in high school than overhearing you talk about how the latest News Toon cracked you up in study hall or how you had no idea about the African Studies bead fundraiser for Uganda until you read page 5. 

        Once in awhile, I even see your reactions in print: perhaps a letter to the editor or a review of your new favorite video game.  As contributors, you have enriched our publication and given your peers something to talk about.  I hope your participation is an indication that you recognize what makes this newspaper so special.  More than a link to complete the chain of high school clubs, the Falconaire has been a canvas on which to capture you: your thoughts, feelings, achievements, and goals.  

 

Editor-in-Chief,

Sarah Boyd

Stephen Weber - Technology Editor

On June 5, 2008, the PSAC met for the last time this school year in the Schleig Conference room at 7:20 am.  Roughly five students attended.

 

Mr. Teeple first talked about student fines procedures

• Missing books will need to be taken to department supervisors

• Fines must be paid with cash or Money Order and brought to the business office

• Posters regarding procedures will be posted in the hallways for students

 

Teeple next talked about locker cleanout

• Lockers must be cleared out by June 12^th

• There is no official locker clean out day; students must do so on their own

• An announcement will be made as a reminder

• Books left in lockers will be brought to maintenance

 

Teeple then talked about final exams

• Seniors are exempt only if the have an “A” average – not straight As

• Periods 1 and 2 are on the 13^th; 3 and 4 on 16^th; 6 and 8 17^th; 10 and 11 on 18^th

• Thursday will be makeup exams

• Graduation is on Saturday

• Finals will be 1 and ½ hours but the first half hour should be for review and material collection and distribution

• Teeple said he prefers if teachers do no let students out into the halls during exams

 

Teeple also asked about senior privileges, what do students want?

• He pitched the idea of seniors having exams early and then having senior week

• The front parking lot will remain reserved for seniors

• Stacy Brody suggested that senior be allowed to sit outside during lunch

 

Stacy Brody asked wehre students should park if their spaces have been taken to which Teeple responded that they are to park in a teacher spot, come inside and report it and give the license plate of the car, if possible.

• Students will get 1 warning, then will be towed if an offence occurs again

 

Teeple ended the PSAC with the fact the senior trip and prom were fun and wished the seniors good luck.

Emalee Rodriguez, Julie Rutan, & Tannu Singh - Staff Writers and Contributor

 

 

Reality Check

 

 

Rude Awakening, designed to warn seniors of the risks involved in poor decision-making around the prom and graduation season, was held on May 29. The program, run by the Tinton Falls Police Department and SADD/REBEL, consisted of three parts.

 

The first was a lecture that consisted of guest speakers who could attest to the experiences of various parties involved in the aftermath of reckless behavior. For this portion, seniors bussed over to the Tinton Falls Boro Hall.

The second portion was a simulation of inebriation with the use of “fatal vision goggles,” which took place at the soccer fields of Atchison Elementary School. Students tried to shoot basketballs, play catch, and drive golf carts while their vision was impaired by the goggles.

The final part of the program was a reenactment of a car crash scene on the Falcons football field. SADD/REBEL members played the roles of drivers and passengers injured and killed in a drunk driving accident while EMS workers, firefighters, and police responded.

 

Monmouth Regional’s Officer Marks says, “It sends a clear message to young drivers about the real life situations concerning alcohol, drug-related accidents and what the outcome can be.”

 

 

Breakfast Time

On June 4, the senior class loaded buses and traveled to the PNC Bank Arts Center in Holmdel for their annual senior breakfast. At the “brunch,” there was everything from hot dogs to eggs served. For entertainment, the seniors had Henna tattoos, Guitar Hero, picture key chains, and raffles. 

“The food was good and there were a lot of good prizes [at the raffle],” says senior Minesh Patel. Additionally, students chatted and signed their spanking new yearbooks. 

Bust a Move

The much-hyped senior prom went down at the Grand Marquis in Old Bridge this year.  The star-themed gala housed many memorable moments.  Chief among them was the song dedication of Sublime’s “Scarlet Begonias” to the late Ryan Jones.  

“I was overwhelmed.  Ryan deserved [Prom King] more than I did,” says Kyle Garingalao, “And that’s why I kept looking to the sky while I was dancing with Jordan.”

*Pictures from Prom are in our Photo Gallery!

Out-of-Towners

On June 3, many seniors attended the senior trip to Hershey Park in Hershey, Pennsylvania. Students spent the day going on rides, visiting the water park, and playing carnival games. 

“The trip was a lot of fun,” says senior Jordan Monts. “I liked going on the roller coasters.”   

Students arrived home at around ten o’clock at night, making for a long day.   

 

Katie Hieber, Keona George, Sam Pelissero - Staff Writers

 

Despite recent rumors concerning budget cuts, only a small percent of Monmouth’s $27 million budget will be removed. To settle the primary concerns, freshman sports are here to stay, along with late buses. 

Although the budget passed in Tinton Falls, there were not enough votes to pass the budget in Eatontown and Shrewsbury Township. 

“This could be because only 9% came out to vote,” says Business Administrator Ms. Parry. She also speculates that perhaps the economy had a role in the budget failing. In the end, the Eatontown Town Council told MRHS to cut $190,000. 

With this amount in front of them, “[The administration] did not want to cut anything that would affect students, teams, and clubs. We didn’t want to punish the students,” says Parry. 

“I am glad that the teams and buses will still be here next year,” says freshman Brian Rhunke, who expressed major concern about the budget cuts as a “Student in the Hall” in issue seven of the Falconaire. “Other schools that had budgets that did not pass, didn’t have to make cuts. It’s nice that the budget cut won’t really affect us.” 

The administration was able to negotiate with the health care company to lower their costs, so no one will actually feel the effects of the budget cut.  “We were very fortunate to have made these negotiations,” Parry says, “When the budget doesn’t pass, everything is vulnerable and it is always a gamble. Budget cuts don’t look like they affect us now, but they can in the long run.” 

 

 

 

How about one that’s… prom flavored? That’s right, we took pictures of the prom on Friday and they’re now online in our photo gallery. Come take a look at how good everyone looked, all dressed up and having a good time. We’re sure the event is still fresh in your minds, but just in case you need a refresher, it’s all there.

Special thanks to the following teachers who turned into amateur photographers for the evening: 

Mrs. Collett, Dr. Thoens, Mrs. Famelio and Mrs. McLaughlin

And a shout out to the tireless layout team of Randy Strauss and Christine Tynes, who worked for hours to get the photos up on our site.

Enjoy it… again.

Stephen Weber - Technology Editor

• Mr. Teeple first talked about Budget rumors

   o People have been saying buses, teachers and freshmen sports are being cut. However, no cuts have been made yet.

   o The budget passed with Tinton Falls voters but failed with Eatontown voters.

• May 19- Biology End-of-Year Test, AP students exempt. All other students will report to their buses 2 hours and 45 minuets later. If students drive, they must be at school by 10.

• A discussion began about a recent fight near the Bagel Stand in the morning. Students complained there were no teachers around to break up the fight. Some students tried breaking it up themselves but ended up getting hit.  Teeple says that teachers were assigned in the area….one by the media center and the other in the hallway adjacent to the parking lot.  No teacher is assigned at the bagel stand.  Teeple says necessary disciplinary actions have been taken.

• The Humanities class will be holding a Guitar Hero tournament at the school to raise money for a $1,000 scholarship. Also, on May 27^th, for every person that eats at the Eatontown Applebees, a portion of the profits will go to the class.

• Relay for Life will be the week of graduation

• Stacy Brody made the comment that the hallway near the media center is bright enough with all the sun that comes in through the windows. So why are the lights on?

• Students involved in sports brought up the fact the Spring Pep Rally never happened; a lot of seniors were bummed about it.

Dates to remember:
• 5-15: Spring Concert
• 5-19: End-of-Year Biology Test and NHS Inductions
• 5-20: Leadership Awards
• 5-21: World Language NHS Inductions
• 5-26: No School
• 5-30: Prom, School closed for students

Francesca Martelli - Staff Writer

The month of May gave the MRHS community two opportunities to appreciate the music stylings of its Jazz Band, which is ranked seventh among high school bands in the state of New Jersey. The band hosted its annual  Jazz Nite on May 2 and followed up their big event with Border’s night on May 9. Since September, a repertoire of various jazz songs has been collected for this night for its listeners to enjoy.  

Senior Jazz Band vocalist and saxophonist Cate Leech sums the event up best. “Jazz Nite is our big event and it’s where you get glitzed up and get to play for a group of people.” 

The night lasts for about three to four hours, with the the Tinton Falls and Memorial Middle School bands following up Monmouth’s. They play an eclectic series of jazz, so whether aficionados are partial to swing, bebop or cool jazz, they will find a tune that suits them.

Both nights saw a performance from a Jazz Band newcomer, junior Colleen Roberts.  Singing the popular, “I’m Beginning to See the Light” performed by Karen Hague and Cate Leech before her, Roberts took the floor as the potential future of Jazz Band vocals.

Roberts is one of many who may be stepping up the musicianship next year, as the Jazz Band is losing six seniors this June.  

“Every year we are affected by losing great musicians,” says band leader Mr. Romano, “but we always step it up somehow.”
 

Kevin Cruz - Staff Writer

The start of the fourth marking period was the beginning of a new gym program for the students of MRHS. Now, students select their activities from a menu rather than follow a class rotation. Whether students like it or not, they still must perform their activities in order to graduate. Athletic Director & Phys. Ed. Supervisor Mr. Deorio has given the Falconaire the rundown on this gym class revolution. 

Falconaire: Whose idea was it to bring about this new gym program?
Tony Deorio: All the teachers in the department wanted individual activities to teach.
F: What was the reason for the change?
TD: We all recognized that students don’t like particular activities. So they figured if students are given the opportunity to choose what they want they will participate more.
F: Will the program continue next year?
TD: Yep, it’s going to continue until the fall. As often as we can. In the winter we’re limited because we have less gym space so it maybe difficult. In the fall and spring we will definitely continue the program.
F: Why did you wait until the fourth marking period to start this?
TD: Well, as I said, in the winter we don’t have gym availability. So basically we have more space outdoors.
F: Do you see any improvements in the students so far?
TD: So far, the overall environment and the attitude of students like it so far. Because they are participating in a sport that they got an opportunity to choose. Some students like yoga, they got yoga. They want to do basketball, they got basketball. Some students didn’t [get their first-choice activity] just because that is the way worked out because we are changing every three weeks. Maybe on their second opportunity they can get what they want.

F: Why aren’t all of the sports available for all periods?
TD: That is why the next cycle we try to change the sports to alter that. There is only one teacher who knows yoga and that’s Ms. Dockray. She doesn’t teach every single period. So yes, unfortunately, every period is not going to have yoga. We are doing the best we can with the staff that we have.