Ranging from freshman to seniors, “The Blow Dart Game” is becoming more popular every day.

“All grades participate in this game, it has spread pretty quickly,” freshman Stephen Oakes said.

To be able to participate in this game all you need to know are a few simple rules; “You have to call their name and wait until they turn around to “dart them” and then they’re dead until someone touches their neck to bring them back to life,” freshman Gunnar Thompson said.

As this game grows more and more popular, people feel it will overpower the “Sandwich Punching” game that was on everyone’s minds just a few weeks ago.

“I think it will start being played more than “Sandwich Punching” because there won’t always be a sandwich around,” junior Kendra Pearce said.

The game gives people something to do in between classes, and gets students from all grades involved, even if they don’t know how to play.

“I learned about this game on Monday during English class when I randomly got shot and I had no idea what was going on,” sophomore Tatiana Niang said.

Although this game is fairly new, it doesn’t have much of a chance with summer just around the corner.

“I think people will get over it when summer starts,” said Niang.

Most students agree that “The Blow Dart Game” will fade quickly, others think it will last longer than expected.

“I don’t know how long it will be popular for, but I think it won’t go entirely, some people will probably get hooked,” said Oakes.

Graduation Year: 1980
Favorite High School Memories: The Friday night football games and going home covered in confetti and with no voice from screaming.
Favorite High School Subject: Spanish
Favorite High School Teacher: Janice Oliver
Activities involved in while at AHS: Spanish Club, Spanish Honor Society, Math Honor Society, Elementary School Tutoring and National Honor Society
Proudest High School Moment: Graduating!
University Attended: James Madison University
Major: Spanish
Current Job: Annandale High School Spanish Teacher
Motto: “Enjoy life and live in the moment.”

The game has resulted in an official group on Facebook for AHS students which includes the rules as well as bylaws and FAQ’s about the “infamous sandwich game.” The information even addresses rare instances that might occur, such as acts of God (hurricanes, wind, etc). The page describes, in detail, many different scenarios that might occur during play, with everything from simple rules to specific circumstances. Those who join the group are informed that they are now officially a part of the game, and as per the rules they are a “player for life.”

Senior Nathan Clayton is credited with bringing the game to AHS, having been introduced to it by AHS alums John Copenhaver and Daniel Noelle. “I told [seniors] Daniel Blasser, August McCarthy and Chris Sheehy and we told the world,” said Clayton.

“Whoever came up with this game should  definitely be given an award,” said McCarthy.

Clayton says his favorite part of Sandwich Punch is “seeing the victims’ face after you have demolished their sandwich; you known they have been waiting all day to eat it and you’ve ruined it. Not too many things can bring such satisfaction,” said Clayton.

One such victim was junior Katie Panther, who had her sandwich destroyed by fellow junior Eric Reynolds. “I was upset and confused because I didn’t actually know about the game. Now I get a free sandwich from him though,” said Panther. “I find the game quite enjoyable because it gives me something fun to do during boring lunches.”

“It ruined my day when Anthony Banaszak smashed my sandwich,” said junior Andy Craig.
McCarthy says the game gives him “a rush of adrenaline after a successful smash. It also keeps your mind focused during lunch because you never want to be the sucker getting his sandwich punched.”

The game has even come to classrooms, such as a recent Environmental Systems class when Blasser jumped up during class to smash classmate Logan Miller’s oreo. While the cookies are not made with bread, it is stated in the rules that they are included as part of the game as “the package clearly states that it is a sandwich cookie.”

The rules do prohibit the inclusion of tacos, burritos, pitas, wraps, calzones, etc. while stating that sub sandwiches, ice cream sandwiches and any other sandwich with two pieces of bread are subject to be smashed.

Although the game is  e njoyed by many some students do not agree with the actions of the sandwich smashers. “I find the game really weird because food is for eating not for being destroyed, I refuse to be part of the game,” said junior Katie Bui.

“My favorite moment was when I tricked someone into punching an uneaten sandwhich. We took the bottom slice of bread so it looked like a regular sandwich and a girl came along and illegally punched it,” said McCarthy.

Clayton’s best experience with the game did not come at school, but rather with friends of his. “One weekend, it was about two in the morning and John
[Copenhaver] had been saying how hungry he was, then he made a terrible mistake. He set his sandwhich down to grab some ketchup and I swooped in and destroyed it. I have never been so proud of myself,” said Clayton.

Stories like these have become common among AHS students, with game strategies being discussed often in the halls. “The boys get really into it at lunch. I will only punch a sandwich if it is right in front of me. I will not go out of my way to punch one. I always protect my sandwich though,” said senior Maggie Bermingham.

“I really do not care for the game and I definitely don’t want it to come to my lunch table,” said junior Victoria Ko.

The game has definitely made a profound impact on the 2009-2010 school year, and many are already curious to see whether the game will be played next year as well.

“I definitely plan on continuing the tradition of the game next year. I will play the game during the summer and bring it back to school next year for another round of entertainment,” said Craig.

Word of the sandwich punching has even traveled to AHS parents who are not only confused by the game but outraged that their hard work every morning could be for nothing if their child’s sandwich becomes the victim of a vicious punch.

“I do not like the idea of my child’s sandwich being destroyed especially when I take the time to wake up early and make it,” said AHS parent Mary Gavin.

“While at AHS I have shown people that I don’t care, I’m loud and I’m happy. I do my own thing and you can appreciate or you can hate,” said Iqbal.

Although he failed to claim the crown at Homecoming and fell short in the race for Mr. Annandale, Iqbal continues to top the charts in the social realm. Iqbal has been nominated for numerous school superlatives and can be recognized as the voice behind the spirit of AHS. He has assisted with social events like “Twerkfest”, been a player on varsity basketball, and has dropped beats in the studio for his fans to enjoy.

Anthony Ayeah

Aside from playing basketball for AHS and being one of the tallest students in the hall, Ayeah has definitely livened up the social scene. He is one of the main promoters for “Twekfest”, an event held at local lounges and clubs for high school students interested in music and dancing.

He ensures that everyone has a great time while also making sure the crowds are safe. His natural ability to attract peers to events and his knack for keeping large crowds under control has earned him his prominent position in the social world of AHS.

Joe Turner

Turner is the voice that is heard at most school events. His joyful and outgoing personality always liven up the AHS crowd.Yet, on the court, Turner never fails to keep the crowd going.

His participation on the basketball team all four years of his high school career have been vital. Whether it’s getting the student body pumped during a pep rally or playing the sport he loves, he is always on top of his game.

Tony Marealle

Have you wondered who could possibly organize an event that over 300 students from AHS attend? Well, Marealle is your man. He has organized the numerous “Twerkfests” and “Battle of the Clappaz”, events that get entire dance floors pumped.

His ability to organize hoppin’ events and success in drawing in such a diverse crowd can be  accredited to his lovable personality.  Aside from party planning, Marealle is a great musician and often hits the studio to make tracks that his many fans enjoy on Facebook.

Peter Pham

“I changed the fashion scene at AHS. People know me and my high fashion is recognizable through the halls,” said Pham.
Pham’s passion for fashion has influenced a lot of students in AHS . His fly kicks and fresh outfits have made him stand out in the crowded hallways. As the years have passed, an increase of students have attempted to replicate Pham’s stylish  wardrobe. It certainly is not rare to see underclassmen sporting the same styles that Pham wore to the last large school event. Whether it is another Monday at school or a varsity basketball game, Pham is always dressed in the newest styles.

In every high school there are those who work to make an impact on the school, those who attempt to avoid leaving any trace of their existence, and then there are those who can’t help but change a school forever. At AHS there are many students who will be remembered throughout time, but there is one particular group that has certainly left a mark that cannot be erased.

“The Goons have made my four years at AHS unforgettable. From basketball games to Twerkfest, events wouldn’t be the same without them,“ said senior Rachel Gallogly. “Their unique personalities and endless jokes have made it a joy coming to school.”

The Goon Squad consists of six senior boys whose charming personalities have stolen the attention of the student body. Although they do not formally call themselves the Goons, Hasib Iqbal, Anthony Ayeah, Joe Turner, Tony Marelle, Peter Pham and Yousef Samey were dubbed this nickname freshman year and it has stuck ever since.

“Sometimes the boys get mad when people call them the Goons. Yet, what they don’t understand is that it’s a term of affection that reflects they’re playful side,” said junior Banna Gebermichael.

Whatever their title may be, this group of boys has livened the social scene at AHS. The much anticipated “Twerkfests” and “Battles of the Clappaz” are well-known events created by this trendy group. Their passion for entertainment became evident at these events that drew students from all walks of life together.

“We thought of Twerkfest because we wanted everyone to come out and have a good time. Dancing and music appeal to all types of people, so it wasn’t a shock when half the school came out to twerk,” said Maraelle.

Their zest and enthusiasm are not just limited to the dance floor. It isn’t unusual for the Goons to start a chant at a pep rally, rep their school spirit at a sporting event, or even liven up a dull A Lunch.

From head to toe, hats to shoes, their style is noteworthy.  Even at seven in the morning, the boys dress to impress on a daily basis, allowing their appearances to reflect their vibrant personalities.

“I don’t know what I’ll miss more about the Goons: their inspiring wardrobes, their hoppin’ parties, or their friendly shouts down the hallways.  AHS will not be the same without  them next year, but I know for a fact this will not be the last time I hear of them,” said junior Lance Miller.

To some students, the Goons are just another group of boys. But, to anyone who took the time to befriend them understand how unforgettable they truly are. The Goons threw some of the school’s most diversified parties, introduced new styles to the student body, and will be missed greatly next year. They surely made their mark on the school, and their chants will forever ring in the hallways of AHS.

Graduation Year: 1975

Favorite High School Memory: Playing Lake Braddock his senior year in a packed stadium

Favorite High School Teacher: Mr. Dave Carter

University Attended: University of Richmond

Current Job: Assistant Activities Director and Weight Training Instructor

Q. When did you discover you have this talent?
A. I discovered this skill in my 8th grade science class when I tried horizontally balancing on one of the lab tables.

Q. How often do you use this talent?
A. I show off my skill pretty often because it is always fun to do and  it impresses the ladies.

Q. Can anyone else in your family do it?
A. Nobody else in my family can do this. They are not strong enough.

“I love the idea and I am glad to be a part of it,” said marketing student, senior Chris Sheehy. “The marketing program is strong and I hope when we seniors leave, other students will continue the success.”

With the elective fair being held today, Friday Feb. 19, all elective teachers have been working to entice students to their field of study. Posters have been hung by many departments to alert students of the elective opportunities, but the marketing department has been alone in using the clever body art campaign to attract students.

In all of the marketing electives, students are exposed to real-world advertising techniques and participate in projects that present them with opportunities to develop their own marketing campaigns. The department’s use of body art to advertise the program is a great example of an application of the skills taught in the classes.

“I had heard of other businesses paying people to advertise their companies using real tattoos,” said marketing student, senior Julia Moeller. “The advertising technique that the marketing program is participating in is a great display of innovative and real world knowledge and methods a student can learn in class.”

The technique of advertising via tattoos can be found in the real business world today. The business Golden Palace Casino was a pioneer is using tattoos as an advertising promotion. This business is well known for the $100,000 they paid to professional boxer Bernard Hopkins to reveal his permanent tattoo during one of his matches. The tattoo read goldenpalacecasino.com and was extremely successfully in boosting gamer membership for the online gambling site.

The Golden Palace Casino experienced a great increase in public interest for their business, as membership numbers increased 200% after the tattoo was exposed. Given the success of the casino and the buzz that the marketing recruitment campaign has already caused in the halls, the exposure is sure to positively affect the number of students interested in the marketing program.

“In auto tech we learn how to change the oil, work on brakes, perform tune ups and just about everything you need to know about tires,” said senior Timothy St. Peter.

This series of elective classes offered in the auto-servicing department educates students on the basics of repairing and maintaining automobiles. The classes involve hands-on lessons in which students discover and practice the proper techniques for vehicle maintenance.

“I started working on cars at an early age and most of my family works on cars,” said senior Andy Gomez. “I really think I have a future in this field and this class has helped me develop this.”

While the first year of classes introduce students to the basics of auto mechanics, students who show a continued interest in the field are eligible for the next, higher level class.

“In auto servicing we learn the basics about cars. We work in the shop and the work is a good step to the future classes,” said sophomore Eric Hernandez.

In the more advanced classes of the auto tech electives, students work in the shop more often. The cars that students perform tune-ups or oil changes on are often faculty and staff cars brought in for service work and student experience.

Although the information and hands on learning this class provides would prove beneficial to any student, many in the auto tech program have goals to take the knowledge they have gained beyond the shop at AHS. Additionally, students are trained in the nuances of auto mechanic safety and by passing a test can attain certification as an Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) brake mechanic.

“I have a love for cars and this line of work,” said St. Peter. “The auto tech classes at Annandale have inspired me to continue working with cars and become an auto technician following high school.”

The classes certainly involve more than playing with heat guns and learning the proper way to remove a flat tire. The students work under the close supervision of teachers, Joe Desio and Anthony Maniatakis to repair air conditioning problems and deal with the many, varied technical aspects of any car failure.

“Today’s vehicles have numerous computers and each one of the computers has more computing power than the computers of the Apollo 13 [NASA Spacecraft],” said auto-servicing teacher Joe Desio. “So today’s technicians need to be smart and well trained. The moniker of grease monkey no longer exists, they are now technicians.”

So when the tire feels low, the check engine light is flashing or the car is smoking, calling AAA is an option, but having an auto tech student riding shotgun would also prove incredibly beneficial.

She suddenly realizes she has only five minutes to get to school, but has just enough time to update her Twitter status on her Macbook Pro computer. Her hands move swiftly across the keyboard as she updates her status; “Just another day in the life of a Senior 2010 :).”

The Class of 2010 has grown up in a decade where technology has flourished. The rapid Internet connection, the multiple means of swift communication and the ability to constantly have entertainment have all become daily luxuries for this year’s graduating class. Yet these technological advances have not always been at the fingertips of AHS seniors. A mere ten years ago these innovations were distant ideas in the imaginations of the Class of 2000.

“Back in my day as a senior at AHS, we carried walk-men and emailed one another,” said 2000 graduate Lance Witkowski. “It was rare for my classmates and I to own a cell phone, so we had to contact each other on our house phones.”

In the year 2000, address books had a whole separate meaning than today. Back then, people recorded numbers and home addresses in paper notebooks that they kept handy. Today, an address consists of cell phone contacts and email, and all that is required to access the information is logging on to the nearest computer or the press of a cell phone button.

“I couldn’t imagine being a senior ten years ago and living without all the technology I have today,” said Triunfel. “Not only am I able to access the biggest news stories in the entertainment world, today’s technology also helps me tremendously with my schoolwork. By entering a simple keyword I can get hundreds of helpful websites related to my desirable topic.”

Such advancements have certainly changed the academic aspects of AHS. Lessons are being taught on SmartBoards, students are expected to submit homework and check for missing assignments via Blackboard and many have become experts on online researching. Through the numerous technological developments, information for projects and homework has become increasingly accessible.

“Kids these days are in constant communication with each other. Whether they’re texting, talking on their cell phones, Facebook chatting, or Oovooing [There is a video that cannot be displayed in this feed. Visit the blog entry to see the video.], children of this generation are always in contact,” said parent Dan Deible. “I’m not saying these devices are bad, I’m just stating the truth; kids are obsessed with the various means of communication and certainly take advantage of them.”

What students used to write in letters to be delivered by pigeons now show up as an inbox on Facebook. Relationships aren’t official until they’re “Facebook official,” friends aren’t counted by the number of people at your lunch table, but rather the number of friend requests you’ve accepted, and stalking no longer requires peering through the window, but rather looking at someone’s updated Facebook and Twitter.

Back in the 2000s, Witkowski says, “relationships were broadcast through holding hands and the girlfriend wearing her boyfriend’s letterman jacket. It was always a struggle having to call the house phone in order to talk to your significant other. There were no late night ‘I Love You’ texts, and Homecoming pictures went in frames, not on Facebook.”

More recently, all of these convenient applications have been combined into one product with Apple’s release of the iPhone. Seniors have certainly taken advantage of the 8 gigabyte phone that does it all. Texting, surfing the Internet, emailing, updating Twitter pages and playing games are accessible to students anywhere with the use of their iPhones.

“I love my iPhone. I’m never bored and always have a source of entertainment on hand,” said senior Eunice T’Chawi. “Technology has made my life complete.”

It is impossible to deny that technology has made the members of the senior class the students they are today. Their interactions with one another, their methods to complete school work and the ways they live their lives are completely different than the seniors who graduated a decade ago. Ten years ago, no one could have anticipated these innovations and now we can’t help but think, “what will the year 2020 bring?”