What they did on their summer vacation

What they did on their summer vacation Longwood students invaded Normandy, Paris and London

BY KYLE REITAN/CONTRIBUTOR
First appeared in The North Shore Sun

More than three dozen Longwood High School students certainly had something special to share about their summer vacation when they returned to school Tuesday. The 38 students, in grades 9 through 12, had the opportunity to travel with their classmates to Europe this August.
The European trip took the students to the cities of London and Paris and the French regions of Brittany and Normandy. They visited such sites as the Louvre, Palace of Versailles, Omaha Beach and the Eifel Tower.
"The purpose of the trip was to increase the students' awareness of the cultural and historical aspects [of Europe]," said social studies chairman Daniel Tapia.
The overseas tour was to help the students understand international governments and languages, and, most importantly, to give the students an opportunity to handle themselves responsibly on such a trip, Mr. Tapia said.
Chaperone Patrick Cauchi, a longtime English teacher at the high school, said he was fearful at first about how the students would behave. But Mr. Cauchi recalled the tour guide's noting how "he could not believe that these kids did not talk about alcohol, did not curse, were not disrespectful, and relatively did not complain about anything ... to see students rise to that occasion just made the experiences of France and England so much more meaningful to me as a teacher of 30 years."
Months prior to the trip, preparation began with meetings of chaperones and teachers with their groups to study Europe's history, geography and customs.
The trip to Europe was an "open invitation" to all high school students with a clean discipline record. About 150 students showed interest during meetings before the summer, when the group was condensed.
Ultimately, the $3,000 trip was priceless to the students.
"My favorite part was seeing the Eifel Tower at night and seeing it lit up," said junior Michelle Engel. "Everything was just so beautiful."
Global studies teacher Marisa Florio said her experiences traveling internationally with students this summer will benefit her style of teaching future students.
"I will be able to teach it from a different perspective," she said. Future lesson plans will feature photographs from the expedition, particularly Normandy Beach and the Palace of Versailles. "That's stuff you can't find in textbooks," Ms. Florio said.
Junior Ian Cook, who has traveled to Europe in the past, said, "It's pretty cool to be able to take in the more historical aspect of it. It was definitely an amazing time and I hope to go on another one sometime soon."
For some students, Europe was a major culture shock.
"It's different," said senior Erica Kannry. "You have to learn to accept other people and different things to do."
Said sophomore Chris Singlemann: "The culture over there was a lot more relaxed. You got to see a bunch of different art and history that you don't get to see in America, because France is so much older and historical than America."
All of the students interviewed came back with a positive view of their experience.
"I think it's really important for [young people] to be able to travel because I think we need to be able to realize that there's a whole world out there and we need to be able to think outside living in New York or the United States," senior Ashley Sabatino said.

Light Source 2 under way

Light Source 2 under way
Construction jobs now; scientific discoveries to follow
By: Kyle Reitan

First appeared in the Village Beacon Record

A $912 million facility containing the National Synchrotron Light Source II began construction after a groundbreaking ceremony Monday at Brookhaven National Laboratory. A few hundred distinguished guests, including BNL employees, scientists, and elected representatives gathered under a tent at the site off William Floyd Parkway in Upton.The high-tech facility, to be built by Torcon Inc., is expected to be fully functional in 2015.

The NSLS-II will be the world's brightest synchrotron light source and "will allow both Brookhaven researchers and our visiting scientists to build the structured properties of materials and biological systems with unprecedented resolutions," said BNL Director Samuel Aronson.

The NSLS-II "will lead to extraordinary discoveries," said Ron Townsend, Battelle's executive vice president of global laboratory operations. He expects that the machine will be utilized to further investigate Alzheimer's disease, for example.

Steve Dierker, associate lab director for light sources, said, "The research programs of NSLS-II will touch almost every area of science and technology that is critical to our economic and energy security as well as to enhancing our quality of life." Aronson, Dierker and other speakers during the event are expecting advances in energy, environmental science, medicine "and many other fields," Aronson noted. To put the NSLS-II in perspective, it will be 10,000 times brighter than the current NSLS source at the lab. "I am so proud that this machine will be here," said Sen. Chuck Schumer (D-NY).

The advanced technologies of NSLS-II will provide sophisticated, innovative tools for research and discovery using safe and clean energy. The original NSLS, for the last 25 years, according to Aronson, "has proven a tremendous resource for researchers in the state and the region." He said there are over 2,000 users of the light source today, one third are from New York State, "so this is a great resource for the local scientific community."

Two years from now, according to Dierker, accelerator components will be added to the NSLS-II, and a year after beam lines will be placed. Dierker emphasized that the innovative light source will be housed in "a building with ultra high stability and advanced instrumentation," which would enhance the research potential.

"There is so much to do here," Schumer said. "Science is the cutting edge of our lives," The new light source is expected to not only be the home of advanced scientific research but also many jobs on Long Island, according to comments from Congressman Tim Bishop (D-Southampton) and Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY). "Right now it's about putting people to work," Bishop said. "This is what Long Island needs; this is what our nation needs."

Melissa Winslow, an intern in the Environmental Sciences division at BNL, said, "I'm excited to see the groundbreaking." Winslow, and colleagues Vicky Giese of California University and Glen Bornhoft are hoping for careers at BNL. "I just can't wait to see it up and how much energy it makes," Bornhoft said.Gillibrand felt strongly about renewable energy resources. "As a member of the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee, I am working to ensure that we'll allocate the proper resources to advance green education." Gillibrand added, "We need to make sure that the next generation have the opportunity in these energy growth areas so that we can be at the forefront of these green energy jobs, health care, and technology revolution." Dennis Carlson, light source user machine shop manager, who has worked in the light source for the past 20 years, said, "It's been a great facility and I think light source II will even be better. It's certainly a big boost for the economy."Immediately following the ceremony, guests were invited to watch "Time and Space for Celebration," a world premiere of interpretive dance by members of the Center for Dance, Movement and Somatic Learning at Stony Brook University.

Mazzei Campagin Focused on Economy, Taxes

Councilman says he'd run town like a business if elected supervisor

By Kyle Reitan

MEDFORD--About 200 supporters of town supervisor candidate Tim Mazzei gathered Saturday at the opening of Mazzei campaign headquarters in Medford to help jump-start the candidates' campaign.
"He is really a renaissance man," said Sen. Ken LaValle (R-Port Jefferson) of Mr. Mazzei, who will appear opposite Democratic candidate Mark Lesko on the March 31 special election ballot. "He will be a great supervisor."
The election was set last week after Mr. Foley resigned from the post to replace longtime Sen. Caesar Trunzo in the state's 3rd Senate District. Mr. Foley's former chief of staff Lori Baldassare is serving as acting supervisor until the election.
Mr. Mazzei and his supporters said Saturday that concerns over the economy and lowering Brookhaven's taxes will be central to the councilman's campaign. Mr. Mazzei said that as supervisor he would look to bring new businesses to Brookhaven in an effort to stimulate the local economy.
"I'm going to run the Town of Brookhaven like a business," he noted. "I'm going to encourage businesses to come to the Town of Brookhaven so that we can increase our commercial tax base to relieve the residential tax base."
Town Conservative Party chairman Richard Johannesen said a lot can be done to enhance economic development in Brookhaven. He said he hopes to see rezoning in downtown districts, including Rocky Point, that will limit the number of school children coming into the community and maximize the amount of tax rateables.
The word economy slipped off the tongues of nearly everyone in attendance at Saturday's rally. Everitt Dewitt of Lake Ronkonkoma deemed Mr. Mazzei an honest candidate who will budget government spending. "Economy is number one with everybody, and I know Tim's working very strongly in improving the area," Mr. Dewitt said.
Ted DiSalvo, president of the Holtsville Civic Association, said he believes Mr. Mazzei, who was appointed Councilman in 2002 and has since been re-elected three times, has done a good job for the 5th Council District. Mr. Mazzei's district stretches west along the South Shore from East Patchogue to the Islip town line.
Joining in the Mazzei campaign effort here on the North Shore are Councilwoman Jane Bonner, who served alongside Mr. Mazzei on the Town Board majority this year, and County Legislator Dan Losquaro (R-Shoreham). Mr. Losquadro said Mr. Mazzei's past experience as a former prosecutor and head of the homicide bureau in Suffolk County "shows the type of integrity and steadfastness that we need in the Town of Brookhaven."
In an effort to win the election, the Mazzei campaign said it plans to utilize every strategy available -- from making phone calls to going door-to-door -- to increase Mr. Mazzei's name recognition, particularly on the North Shore, and to spread his message. Mr. Mazzei said that message includes a pledge to lower taxes and to improve the quality of life in Brookhaven.
"It is a very short time, but his name is very well known and people like him," said Arlene Stevens, a volunteer from Coram.

As reported in The North Shore Sun

A Night with Michael Phelps

What a way to end 2008 - a night with Michael Phelps. 2008 Olympic champion swimmer Michael Phelps spoke to a large audience at Adelphi University on December 9, the same day his book No Limits: The Will to Succeed hit book shelves. At the event in Adelphi's brand new Center for Recreation and Sports, Moderator and former American swimmer and Olympic gold medalist Donna DeVarona asked Phelps many questions ranging from his aspirations in school and allowed young audience members to ask questions themselves. This event was open to the public for a small fee. -Kyle Reitan

Journalism Scholars visit NYC during mini-reunion

As most of you know, I received a $1000 scholarship last month called Al Neuharth's Free Spirit Journalism Scholarship. When I applied for the scholarship a few months back, I submitted a couple of essays, my clips, letters of recommendation, and other necessities that I probably don't recall.

Two high school, aspiring journalists, male and female from every state were selected to receive the scholarship and an all expenses paid trip to Washington, D.C. When I arrived in Washington, D.C., I didn't know what to expect. Long story short, I made many new friends who I'm staying in touch with.

Most recently, Kyle Rogers, a journalist from Pennsylvania is visiting Long Island, New York this weekend and Jennifer Adams, from South Dakota, will here in May. Today, we met up with other scholars from the conference in New York City. It was extremely nice to be able to see our fellow scholars today- Snigdha, the female recipient from New York and Carol, New Jersey. We visited TODAY in New York which is aired on your local NBC station, ate official NY pizza, went to central park and walked around aimlessly. Coincidentally, the Pope was in town so we stood on the side of a street in Manhattan for three hours to see him.

When Mr. Rogers arrived here on Friday evening, we decided to take a trip out to East Hampton and Montauk. Luckily, we were able to meet Billy Joel in East Hampton. It was very cool because with mic. in hand, he sang me a song about a piano man.

We shall see what tomorrow brings us...

Peace, love, and happiness!

-Kyle Reitan

Pope Benedict XVI visits NYC

Thousands upon thousands of spectators, protesters and NYPD officers lined the streets of New York City early this morning. The occassion: Pope Benedict XVI's visit to NYC. Security was extremely tight; people with special tickets were able to pass through certain side streets. The tickets were given out during specific church outings and randomly passed out in the city, an NYPD officer said.

I'm coming home....

This past week was simply amazing. Today we had the reception/awards ceremony at Newseum. We met with Cathie Black, President of Hearst Magazines, and Free Spirits from previous years.

I've met so many wondeful people in the last four days and it's time to go. :(

Please enjoy the photos and see you soon.

-Kyle

Hello from DC

Hello y'all!!

I suppose I'm picking up on the diverse accents here in Washington, D.C. I have to apologize for not posting anything yesterday evening but I was just too tired to do so. I'll just give you the run down of what we did between yesterday and today.

Monday, March 17

I'm a little disappointed that I missed corn beef and cabbage yesterday at Grandma's and after writing this I'm stunned that they didn't serve any here either. After waking up at 6 am, I went down for some food, yet again. Then we departed for a long day at the Newseum. We had a formal tour of the Newseum. I didn't realize how huge and interactive it is. Our first panelist of the day was Betty Baye, a columnist and editorial writer for The Courier Journal in Louisville, KY. Long story short, she was hysterical. She was very random at times and knows "there are dumb asses in the world." Born and raised in East Harlem, NY, Baye says we are on the journey and the "journey will be the adventure everyday." Considering we were her fourth Free Spirit group, she was very inspiring. "Cherrish your inner circle," she says.

After listening to Baye, we viewed a documentary of "What's News," and later viewed a 4-D film. This 4-D movie gave us the opportunity as aspiring journalists to see what professionals went through in the past during World War II. The unique part of seeing the film was being able to meet the creators after the show. Not only were we able to view it, but talk to the creators too.

We departed for C-SPAN at 1:30 for a LIVE to tape show of "Close-up at the Newseum." I believe I got a lot of air-time so I just sat there, laughed and smiled. The show should air this Friday at 7 pm EST if you'd like to check it out on CSPAN 2.

Dinner was amazing. We departed DC to embark on a riverboat tour in Alexandria, VA. After the meal, we were able to dance the night away in the dance room. It was hilarious at times because some kids from the Southern "colonies" (states) didn't know what "grinding" was. Enough said.

Tuesday, March 18:

What a day!!! I had an ethical meeting with Carol Knopes, the director of Education Programs, Radio and Television News Directors Foundation. She spoke about media ethics and later Charles Haynes spoke to us about our Differences and our Democracy. Later, we attended a session with David Mazzeralla, Lisa Burgess and Leo Shane III. These are all reporters from various organizations including the Washington Post and Stars and Stripes. These war reporters corresponded in war zones which is something that I may consider down the road.

Later, we went to USA Today, like I haven't been there in 2 weeks!! We met with editor Ken Paulson toured the building and ate dinner. I'm exausted by the way so I'll make this short. Afterwards, we went for a presentation of "Freedom Sings." It was a multi-media presentation that tells the story of banned or censored music. The live performers lined up on the stage and were introduced. One musician composed music for Tim McGraw and another either wrote the Rocky Theme song or was a drummer during the recording.

Tomorrow should be exciting. I'll be meeting Cathie Black, President of Hearst Magazines and enjoying an awards ceremony later in the day.

Nite!!

-Kyle

Newseum Update

I love VIP treatment. When we arrived at Newseum, I didn't know what to expect. When I walked inside the building, I was simply blown away. First, it's huge. Second, it's my new favorite Newseum!!! After our discussion with Al Neuharth, the man who started it all we had a gourmet dinner, something I'm never used to at home. You can view photos above, maybe my family can learn from it! JK

Before I go to sleep, let me say this: I expected Al to be really obnoxious because his books, especially S.O.B. are written in that style. It turns out he is extremely friendly and simply an amazing person to talk to. I asked him a question which I thought would be comical. You see, when I try to ask questions during seminars like this, I like to wake up the audience and I did just that. I said, "Mr. Neuharth, we're all open here. Tell us how you really feel. What would you say to those critics today since they called your publication McPapers...what is your message to those critics?" The audience laughed; but it didn't get the answer I was expecting. I thought he was going to criticize them and say $%##%&*$#!!! Instead, he say "look at the results." Indeed.

I'll talk to you tomorrow.

Lata,

Kyle

Meet the Press with: Tim Russert

Tim Russert is probably one of the nicest intellectual journalists I have ever met. No. Tim Russert IS the nicest intellectual journalists I have met. Our day began early this morning at breakfast in our Mariott Hotel. As opposed to last weeks meals at a similar Mariott here in DC, I enjoyed this experience with the food better.

When we arrived at NBC studios we had to wait for a while in the buses until the studio was ready for us. I took that time to jot down my questions in a smaller notepad that was provided yesterday.

We formed a line of 102 students down the hallway at the studio. I had expected this studio to be extremely tiny, but I was wrong. It was instead extremely large. While I was waiting on line, NBC's David Gregory entered the building and dashed right next to me. It would've been more thrilling if I didn't see him during a show of "Saturday TODAY in New York." Once we took our seats I couldn't wait to here the introduction music composed by John Williams. I believe John Williams is the composer for most, if not all of NBC's music.

The first guests on the panel was Fmr. Senator Bill Bradley (D-New Jersey) and Rep. Nita Lowey (D-New York). Sen. Bradley seemed like he had no intellegence or at least wasn't prepared for the show; however Rep. Lowey had a great deal of knowledge in Sen. Clinton's campaign. I must note one of the funniest things during this trip. Sen. Bradley nearly fell off the set after the show. He stumbled over a step. The next panel for discussion was an NPR journalist, David Gregory, and a columnist from the Washington Post. For their exact names, visit msnbc.com. For sake of time, I can't research them now.

Afterwards, we had a group photo with Tim Russert and had a few moments for Q and A. He is probably the coolest guy ever to talk with. His producer was precious about time but Tim kept on taking questions. "Okay, one more question." A moment later. "Okay, one more question." And so on.

Next, I had a few moments to have someone take my photos on the set and later with Tim Russert. You may enjoy the photos above!

I have to run now because I'm supposed to be downstairs in twenty-five minutes for our departure for the Neuseum. Check back later for more posts, and possibly some commentary from Tim Russert's discussion with us!!!

~Reporting in Washinton, D.C. I'm Kyle Reitan.