The Wessex Wire (November 2015)

The Wessex Wire The Student Newspaper of West Essex Regional High School

Vol. LVI No. 2

November 2015

West Essex High School, 65 West Greenbrook Road, North Caldwell, N.J.

Reevaluating the recycling program of our actions in the future of planet,” Feti said.

Additional garbage canisters will be placed in the cafeteria for proper sorting of waste, with more cans being placed in classrooms for the future.

The custodial staff hopes announcements will be made by the administration regularly to bring attention to and reiterate the importance about the new recycling cans.

Throug h t his prog ram, the combination of recycling should allow for over 90 percent “recovery of recyclables” which otherwise would be included in the garbage. In other words, 90 percent of the garbage at West Essex will be properly disposed of. The new cans will minimize cross contamination between garbage.

“We are now implementing a system that will not only in-

By Cathryn Kessler ’16 A new system of recycling started by the school this year aims to vastly increase how effective recycling programs work, according to administration and maintenance staff.

It might not be visible to students on a day to day level, but Mr. Taulant Feti, Director of Buildings and Grounds for the district, said that certain waste products will now be recycled more effectively when sorted correctly in separate containers for plastic and cans, as well as paper and cardboard.

“We feel that this new system will allow both students and faculty to have a higher appreciation of what recycling can do for our community environment and also educate the students of the importance and impact

crease our percentage of properly recycled waste, but will also enhance the students understandingand participation in the recycling process,” Mr. Feti said.

However, rumors have persisted for years that recycling efforts at our school were not fully carried out. Students say the blue recycling cans in classrooms and the cafeteria that hold a culmination of plastic bottles, paper bags and food scraps are not correctly disposed of.

“West Essex is acting as a bad example,” Earth and Environmental teacher Ms. Wall said in a 2012 Wessex Wire article.

“If we do not enforce healthy habits, how can we expect students to recycle at home or when they get older?” said Ms. Wall.

This rumor was based on a

half-truth: according to Mr. Feti, the school has always recycled, but in the past the recycling program gathered commingled material in what he called “one general unsorted way.” The program sought to enforce a single container that would recycle both cardboard and commingle. This recycling method only recycled 10 percent of non contaminated recyclables according to the custodial staff.

“It was brought to our attention that while convenient for many districts, it did not utilize the maximum percentage of efficiency.” Mr. Feti said.

“In reviewing our past practices, it was made clear that by changing the way the district recycles, it would increase the level of efficiency.”

West Essex Goes Green $5,000 grant given for aquaponic system

By Jaime Petrocca ’16

Renewed efforts for recycling mean everything old is new again, whether plastic, cardboard, water or more

In This Issue:

3-4

Opinion

The Science Department received a grant from the international chemical manufacturer BASF on Nov. 11, for the school’s STEM Club.

“We are looking to make the school a better, more environmentally friendly place,” said junior and member of the STEM club Amanda Garofalo.

Ms. Wall, the club’s adviser, said the money will be used to set up what is called an aquaponics system, which involves raising fish and using waste from the fish as nutrients to grow plants, as well as recycling the water between each system.

“We also hope to grow some vertical gardens within the school, so we are combining engineering with environmental science,” Ms. Wall said.“It is a really cool idea! We also want to possibly use koi for fish and then build a koi pond on campus.”

Defending the burrito bowl

Ms. Wall and Sam Minion, a junior and president of the club, wrote a proposal letter to BASF in hopes to receive this grant.

“In the letter we spoke about our goals of bringing greener technology to our school,” Ms. Wall said.

In the future, club members say, they hope to grow baby fish such as trout and then possibly release them into a local lake.

“We plan on working with Lake Hopatcong to make the aquaponics possible, and the maintenance staff to carry out our plans for the greenhouse and vertical gardens throughout the school. As STEM club president, we together are going to help conduct and organize plans to bring these ideas to life on how to make the school a better place,” Sam Minion said.

In 2 0 1 2 BA SF g r a nt e d $100,000 in total to schools throughout New Jersey to help enhance science, technology,

9-10 Arts

See RECYCLE on Page 2

illustration by courtney pappas

A sketch for the planned Aquaponic system. It involves raising fish and using waste from the fish as nutrients to grow plants, as well as recycling the water between each system.

engineering and math (STEM) related learning for students in grades K – 12.

“Our goal is to engage students in creative new ways that will stimulate their interest in STEM related fields and encourage them to view science

‘J-Law’ advocates for gender equality

11-12 Sports

as a long-term field of study and possible career path,” said Robin Rotenberg, vice president and chief communications officer for North America at BASF Corporation, in a press release.

“With determination, we can change our ways.”

Teachers who are still in the game

The Wessex Wire: News

November 2015

Page 2

First quarter ShopRite Stars chosen

By Sam Mazzella ’16

Four times a year, around the end of each marking period, students are recognized in five categories: athletics, leadership, arts, academics and service to the community. The ShopRite Stars program is well-known around school, but not everyone is aware of the full story behind how it was created and why West Essex became involved in the process.

West Essex has been involved in the ShopRite Stars program since its start in 1999. Ned Gladstein, owner of the West Caldwell ShopRite, and a group of associates who focused on community service created the ShopRite Stars program to highlight students going above and beyond just their school work.

“We feel that the program fulfills its initial intention, recognition as well as ShopRite’s way to give back to the communities we serve,” said Joan Zambrello, who runs the Stars program.

Juniors and seniors are eligible to be nominated by teachers,

Photo Courtesy of Louise fredo

From left, Seniors Tim Ruszala, Liam Fahey, Isaiah Rodriguez, Cathryn Kessler and Stephen Hunter were all named ShopRite Stars for the first marking period.

coaches and advisers. An email is sent to all the teachers asking them to nominate students. Careful consideration goes into picking

students to nominate.

“I look at more than just the work they produce. They don’t have to be the most talented artist,”

said Art teacher, Ms. Rizzi, “I look to see if this person is a role model, if they are involved and if they are willing to help me out by helping

a friend who might be confused.”

“I look for excellence in all categories, someone who goes above and beyond,” said guidance counselor Van Syckle.

After all nominations are made and the winners are announced for all four marking periods, the West Caldwell ShopRite makes a $1,000 donation to Project Graduation.

Students’ photos hang in ShopRite and around school for everyone to see.

Many other schools in the area also participate in the ShopRite Stars program, including James Caldwell, Montville High School, Parsippany High and Parsippany Hills High School.

The winners for first marking period were: Stephen Hunter for service to the community, Cathryn Kessler for leadership, Tim Ruszala for arts, Liam Fahey for academics and Isaiah Rodriguez for athletics.

“It was an honor to be nominated for this,” senior Stephen Hunter said. “I never really knew what the program was, but I think it’s a really good program for us to participate in.”

Students take initiative Wizards to dunk on the faculty to create two new clubs

By Gianna Aktas ’16 Two very different students took separate paths to create two new official school clubs this year: senior Chris Malanga, who founded the Conservative Club, and junior Jake Siciliano, who created the Debate Club.

The Conservative Club began preparation at the end of last school year and was approved by the board at the beginning of this year. The club aims to meet once or twice a month to hold conversations and debates for the student body to participate in. Malanga, who is also the club’s president, and head adviser Mr. Freda get discussions going each month.

“As a conservative in school, I felt underrepresented by the clubs available to me, and I felt that a conservative club would help even out the spectrum,” Malanga said.

“My goal was to create a haven for free political thought and encourage debates among students.”

When Siciliano wanted to create a new club for debate and public speaking at the start of the school year, he approached Ms. Ruiz to be the head adviser. Siciliano said he was inspired to create the club during a debate in his APUSH II class last year.

“The Debate Club allows beliefs and opinions to be channeled into current topics and events that

By Melanie Montesdeoca ’18 “Character education programs

will be debuting in West Essex the A basketball tournament be- following year,” Mr. Popat said. students know and care the most tween the faculty of West Essex When Mr. Popat taught in about. It offers an environment and the Harlem Wizards will Randolph, he said the Wizards that is accepting and tolerant of take place on Dec. 5 in the gym- came to their middle school all opinions,” Siciliano said. “Once nasium. The event is in sup- each year. students are able to put themselves port of the Fairfield Municipal “The event is always a wonderin others’ shoes and understand Alliance (FMA), in efforts to raise ful experience; the players are different points of view, the Debate money for West Essex Regional extremely talented and funny,” School District.

Popat said. “The crowd loves Club has fulfilled its purpose.”

The Debate Club meets twice a Middle School Principal Mr. seeing their teachers out on month for 45 minutes and states Popat credits the FMA, a group the court.” its focus as creating arguments of volunteers who try to fight Mr. Popat said he hopes to and debating relevant topics such alcoholism and drug abuse in the fill the West Essex gym, as proas politics and problems seen in community for making events ceeds from the event will help to such as this one possible. Here at continue the FMA’s support of today’s society.

“At each meeting, students sign West Essex, awareness has been our schools.

Students at the middle school up to support or refute a state- spread through the use of assemment made about an important blies, such as Rachel’s Challenge said they’re very eager for the political or social issue, and they and inspirational speakers such basketball game. are given 30 minutes to present as Marc Mero, with the support “I am very excited to meet some of the Harlem Wizard players,” their argument,” Ms Ruiz said.”It of the FMA. allows the students to gain multiple perspectives and hear what from Page 1 other students have to say about the ongoing events.”

Three years after improving ing place at our school,” senior Both clubs allow students to get recycling endeavors, Ms. Wall Halle Mason said. “However, more politically involved and get is more optimistic about the once we switch to this new sysintact with today’s issues, and say improvements. “We are very tem, it would be more obvious their main goal is to lead to diverse excited about the change!” Ms. to students that they should conversations and give students Wall said. finally recycle.” the opportunity to express their Although strong efforts are “The program will work if the beliefs on certain topics. aimed to guide West Essex school gets rid of the idea that all “I hope students become podown a “green path,” students the recyclables and garbage end litically involved for either party are uncertain whether this pro- up in the same place. I’ve heard or even a special interest group,” gram will be effective. Students it too many times,” sophomore Mr. Freda said. “If we look at are aware that the recycling Brielle Krause said. voter turnout, people generally bins in the cafeteria seem to be “In order for this program to don’t vote or elections are comalways be filled with a surplus truly work, the school actually pletely uncontested. This club of garbage. has to follow through with what might at least spark some interest “As of right now, I am not they say they are going to do. I in politics.” even aware of recycling tak- hear that West Essex does not

seventh-grader Ryan Dratch said.

The Harlem Wizards are known for their skill on the court, doing tricks with the ball and shooting unusual basketball shots in order to woo the crowd. Their performance on the court helps lure in crowds.

Last year alone, the Wizards starred in over 400 communities nationwide, raising nearly $2 million.

Participants in this event include Ms. Torres, Ms. Tamburri, Mr. Lambo, Mr. Popat, Mr. Gupta, Mr. Young, Mr. Johnson, Mr. Llauget, Ms. Mondadori-Llauget, Ms. Cosse, Ms. Fink, Mr. Davis, Mr. Macioci, Mr. Glenn and Ms. Cirello. $25 for advanced ticket sales with $35 for reserve and $50 for

RECYCLE |

even recycle the bottles we put in the blue bins. If they don’t recycle now, why would they recycle in the future?” junior Erica Torter said.

It is is difficult to determine whether this program will be effective in the future. However, at large students all have the same thoughts: nothing will change.

“The students just do not care enough. If the students couldn’t separate recyclables and regular trash, why would they separate their garbage into more categories?” senior Cooper Salmon said.

Opinion

November 2015 Issue 1

Power of ISIS in Paris

Paris, the City of Lights, was suddenly darkened when terrorists invaded the city on Nov. 13, leaving at least 129 dead and many wounded The sites of these raids took place all across the city, including several restaurants and a concert. The shootings left the city in complete chaos and pandemonium, and then in mourning as the civilians paid respects to lost loved ones.

It was later confirmed that these attacks were committed by ISIS, the terrorist group that came into the spotlight in 2014, when appalling videos of beheadings were released to the public. This Islamic group was the center of media attention over the last year, but attempts to track down and destroy ISIS have been unsuccessful.

When claiming responsibility for the attacks on Paris, ISIS stated that this would be "the first of the storm." At what point will countries band together to stop ISIS’s reign of terror? If action is not taken, ISIS will continue their series of attacks. It took the attacks of 9/11 to get U.S. sentiment focused on stopping Osama Bin Laden and al-Qaeda. Continuing to turn a blind eye to this unsolved problem is not the answer. With the magnitude of danger that surrounds terrorism, it is no longer acceptable not to acknowledge this problem.

Even from a student perspective, being taught about the effects of ISIS and how it is affecting humanity on an international level can help to display the gravity of the situation of ISIS’s presence.

Though action must be taken at a higher level, regardless of age, getting students engaged and informed on what is truly happening in the war is the first step.

Paris has already began to fight terrorism by sending bombers to Syria. It is imperative to stop this significant problem before it becomes too late.

Staff Editorial

The Wessex Wire The Official Student Newspaper of West Essex High School A Columbia Scholastic Press Association Gold Medalist Paper 65 West Greenbrook Road, North Caldwell, New Jersey 07006 (973) 228-1200 ext. 258 2015-2016 STAFF:

Managing Editor Tatum Pappas ’16

Editors-in-Chief Brianna Crummy ’16 Julia Maxman ’16

Art Director Courtney Pappas ’16

News Editors Anthony Gagliardi ’16 Cathryn Kessler ’16

Opinion Editors Jordan Alworth ’16 Jewels Gutowski ’16

Features Editors Julie Rosenberg ’16 Isabel Tabs ’17

Sports Editors Kirk Geller ’16 Caitlin Morrissey ’16

Arts & Culture Editor Patrick Glenn ’16

Research Editor Jake Wolf ’17

Copy Editors Gianna Aktas ’16 Ceana Cuello ’16 Junior Copy Editor: Daniella Ignacio ‘17

Cartoonist Kerri Astorino ’16

Photo Editors Maddie Gering ’16 Sammi Mazzella ’16 Jules Moskowitz ‘17 Advertising Editors Sammi Mazzella ’16 Jaime Petrocca ’16

Adviser Mr. Hermosilla

Contributing Staff Jessica Cunha ‘17 Dan Laible ‘18 Chris Tsakonas ‘18

The Wessex Wire Editorial Policy

The national-award winning Wessex Wire is published with supplemental updates to inform, educate and entertain the approximately 1,200 students of West Essex High School, faculty and community. Unsigned editorials are the consensus opinion of the editorial board and do not always reflect the views of the adviser, staff, administration and/or board of education. Signed editorials reflect the view of the person whose name appears in the byline.

The Wire serves as a forum for the expression of ideas and opinions of students, staff and community members. We urge readers to write letters to the editor on pertinent matters of concern. Letters must be signed; however, anonymity will be granted if necessary upon request. Members of the editorial board reserve the right to edit all letters to the editor for length or libelous content. Students, faculty or members of the community with an interesting experience or strong opinion on any subject are also encouraged to write or contact the Wire at thewessexwire@gmail.com.

Several photos in this issue are used under various Creative Commons licenses. For more info and full licensing details, visit creativecommons.org.

The Wessex Wire Page 3

HOW TO SPEAK CHIPOTLE: “THEIR WAY”

HOW TO SPEAK CHIPOTLE: “MY WAY”

1) gmo-free Marketing term describing food that isn’t healthier or safer, but that does cost more.

1) gmo-free Yes, as of 2015 their food is free of genetically modified ingredients. Why is that a bad thing?

2) healthy Burritos with as many as 1,500 calories.

2) healthy Bowl with brown rice, chicken, salsa, guacamole and lettuce: 650 calories.

3) antibiotic-free Animals are denied medicine that could prevent disease. (Oh, and by the way, all meat you buy is antibiotic free!)

4) sofrito A word we made up for tofu.

Information from chubbychipotle.com

3) antibiotic-free “Meat from a pig treated with antibiotics will not contain antibiotic residue, just like meat from an animal that was never given antibiotics-” from Chipotle’s website.

4) sofrito Big Mac, a word made up for a cheeseburger.

‘Chubby Chipotle’ campaign aims to expose a false reality

By Jordan Alworth ’16

Chipotle is a unique force in the market of chain restaurants. The company has managed to dissociate itself from the stigma associated with fast food and attract a diverse crowd of loyal, often health conscious, customers. Chipotle’s slogan, “food with integrity,” sums up what the establishment stands for, or maybe want they want consumers to think they stand for: Food that is healthy, food that is dependable and food that is safe.

As of recently, this message of theirs has been under fire.

A campaign entitled “Chubby Chipotle” began its rise in the mainstream media in September, and has gained momentum since.

The campaign claims Chipotle is the polar opposite of the health image it promotes, and has earned its successes through deception. To be blunt, they think Chipotle is making people fat. It is poking holes and tearing apart the language the company uses to characterize itself and the food.

The campaign has set out to expose the public to a reality that, in my opinion, does not exist. It is important to keep in mind who or what is behind “Chubby Chipotle.”

According to a New York Post article, speculators have claimed competitors like McDonald’s or Wendy’s might be the huge corporations to thank for this unsound argument; however, a nonprofit organization called the Center for Consumer Freedom (CFF) is truly responsible. The CFF has also attacked Mothers Against Drunk Driving as well as PETA, to give the organization some context.

“Chipotle pretends to be antiGMO but has no problem with

GMOs being used to sweeten its soda or fed to animals used for food,” the CFF said in a statement given on its website. “Chipotle pretends to be ‘humane’ but bans farmers from giving their livestock antibiotics as a means of preventing illness.” Both of those allegations are presented to make Chipotle look like it is lying to and deceiving its customers.

The key word in the organization’s assumption is “pretending.”

Chipotle is not pretending, in fact it is being overtly honest.

“The meat and dairy products we buy come from animals that are not genetically modified. But it is important to note that most animal feed in the U.S. is genetically modified, which means that the meat and dairy served at Chipotle are likely to come from animals given at least some GMO feed,” according to Chipotle’s website.

“Many of the beverages sold in our restaurants contain genetically modified ingredients, including those containing high fructose corn syrup, which is almost always made from GMO corn.”

Chipotle was the first national restaurant chain to willingly and deliberately acknowledge the presence of GMOs in their food. That was in 2013. Fast forward to 2015: Chipotle has made the transition to use only non-GMO ingredients. In regards to any fear that Chipotle’s antibiotic free animals are less healthy than those given antibiotics, rest easily. As stated on Chubby Chipotle’s very own website, “Worry not. As veterinarian Dr. Scott Hurd has put it: ‘It’s all antibiotic free.’ If a farmer uses antibiotics to prevent or treat sickness in an animal, there are federal regulations to ensure that

food from that animal is safe.”

“All we can go with is what Chipotle claims to be,” said health teacher Mr. Markey. “As someone with a background in nutrition, I know that not all calories are created equal, however, if you are sitting down to a 1,300 plus calorie meal everyday, there will be a chance of weight gain. In regards to something being labeled ‘healthy’, it is so broad and nonspecific.” We don’t need Chubby Chipotle to tell us what we should and shouldn’t eat, or what we should and shouldn’t believe.

A large portion of West Essex students are fans of the fast food chain. They, too, should not be alarmed by the buzz.“It is possible to order something with a ton of calories without even trying.

If someone is really trying to be health conscious, it's possible to have a low calorie intake and still eat a lot of food,” said senior and regular Chipotle customer Kate Jencarelli. “If people are trying to be healthy they do have options.

What's wrong with rice, chicken and some salsa?”

Simply enough, stick to your conscience. Clearly chips, cheese, and sour cream are not the best for you, but that is not to say chicken, lettuce, corn and vegetables are bad. Competing jealous companies, and people with nothing better to do, will always find something wrong with those who are prospering. It is important to be critical of whatever you read online and come to judgements on your own accord, even if it does require a little extra scrutiny. Chipotle can’t and won’t let its nagging antithesis, Chubby Chipotle, tear it down, so neither should you.

November 2015

Page 4

The Wessex Wire: Opinion

Students are far too inVESTed Midterm mystery:

A sign of failure to communicate

By Pat Glenn ’16

Does it bother you that everyone and their mother seems to wear a vest to school? No matter where I turn in this place I see at least a handful of people in a group sporting a vest. In fact, as I sit in class at this very moment writing this column, I see 5 out of 20 people wearing a vest. Here I am, sitting befuddled by the fact that a quarter of the class is wearing the same article of clothing.

My head spirals out of control with questions. Who is the one that started this trend? Why do we all follow this trend? When did we all start to dress like Marty McFly? I understand the purpose of wearing vests on the way to school as well as upon exiting the building — fall is well under way — but I do not understand the purpose of keeping the vest on all day.

Since the school is at times a sauna (which warrants a DIBY in its own right) I do not understand why so many people decide to stick with the vest the entire day. There is simply no logical reason why vests do not spend the majority of their time in a locker.

Since we’ve ruled out the warmth claim, let’s examine the other argument: style. Now vests may do wonders for girls trying to add a tad more flair to their leggings-sweater combo, but I refuse to believe that they complement an outfit so much that they necessitate a daily or semi-daily wear. I mean c’mon now, show some variety, ladies (and gentlemen).

Don’t think you’re getting away with your vest usage either though, guys. Far too many times I have seen a dude walk through the halls with a sweat suit and a

Lack of information about exam schedule simply adds to existing student stress

By Daniella Ignacio ’17

Photo By Jordan alworth

Pat Glenn is disgusted by the vest epidemic. Aren’t your arms cold? Why don’t you try a cardigan? vest. First of all, the sweatshirt should take care of warmth, so that excuse can be thrown out the window, and secondly, that vest is not saving the outfit. So please don’t think the vest is some kind of savior. If you’re slumming but have a vest on, you’re still slumming, my friend.

Allow me to change my tune a little bit: I do not want to come across as abrasive and overly judgemental. I certainly do not want all of you to be reading this and say, ““Hey! This guy hates the way we all dress!” Far from it: in fact, I possess a few vests of my own (worn sparingly). The problem is not that we all slip on a vest from time to time. The problem is that we all appear to wear the SAME EXACT things.

This vest-crazy society is a

reflection of our tendency to conform and follow the leader. We all have to take a step back and realize that we are individuals, and while going with the pack is appealing, we must be willing to explore our own identity. That not only goes for fashion, but with most things in life. I’m not trying to get too philosophical on you guys, I’m just saying there must be some room for creativity and personal panache.

We all need to start to express our individuality and not wear something simply because someone else did. So let’s all vow to put a little more effort in our school attire, and not settle for going with the crowd and conforming to societal trends. Break from the mold and be bold (I should copyright that).

Midterms. Just the word is enough for students to break a sweat. It’s the cause of one of the most stressful weeks of school, and this year it may get even worse.

Discussions over possible changes to the midterm schedule took over the hallways in October. There were so many different rumors regarding the differing schedule that it’s hard to find out what is really going on.

Being a student myself, I can pretty much speak for most students when I say that we just want to be in the loop.

Although the final plan for the midterm schedule has been established, it is the fact that students are just receiving this news that makes the process frustrating. As if midterms aren’t taxing enough, now the student body must scramble to decipher all of the different bits of information that we have heard through the grapevine.

We, the people taking these exams, should not have to worry about how our midterms will be administered this late in the game.

The main problem is not so much the change in the schedule as it is the not knowing the schedule this close to our mid-year assessments. At this point, students really

should know the status of the midterms that they will be studying for, crying over, and taking in less than three months.

Why? Because, at the end of the day, this testing is allegedly all for the students’ benefit.

Midterms and finals are not factored into school ranking like standardized tests are; in fact, they have a bigger role in determining a student’s academic future, as midterms count for 10 percent of a student’s final grade. That is a pretty big percentage in the grand scheme of things, especially for juniors, with 11th grade being the most crucial academic year of high school.

As a junior, I can attest to the great amount of stress that my grades have given me so far this year. Junior year is already filled with rigorous courses and standardized tests. Knowing the format of midterms earlier on would have relieved me of some of that stress.

I would spend less time worrying about that and more time worrying about my actual performance on those midterms.

This issue with midterms truly emphasizes how much students need to be able to communicate directly with administrators and have their voices be heard. In turn, administrators must be much more direct with the student body and always update them on information that is pertinent to them, no matter what. Why not let students know for sure what is going on with an important issue that will affect them greatly?

Mizzou race protests prove one thing: Money talks

By Anthony Gagliardi ’16

In today’s world, it is interesting to observe just how strong of a grip money has in our society. No matter where you turn, its presence is noticeable.

Once again, this good old nation of freedom and prosperity has its eyes and ears tuned on a racially charged incident, this time setting its roots in the main campus of the University of Missouri. The predominantly white college has been known for its controversial racial outbreaks, but people are finally using their voices, speaking out against what they believe is unjust.

Due to its recent spotlight in the media, it might come as a surprise to most people that these studentbased protests have been occurring for more than three weeks.

Throughout that time, students, labeling themselves on social media as #ConcernedStudent1950, have picketed and protested for action to be taken on the racial controversies that have been damaging the school’s reputation for quite some time. In order for their voices to be heard by the administration, students have gathered on the main quad, pitching up tents and even joining in on a hunger strike.

Why did it take an entire three weeks in order for this story to gain coverage? Sadly, it was because money peeked its pestering nose into the mix. Mizzou’s football players announced on Oct. 7 that they would boycott all practices and games until residing campus president, Tim Wolfe, resigned or was removed from office. With the popular, money-making football team backing the protesters’

cause, the university immediately began gaining attention. Prompt action was taken by the school’s administration and two days later, President Wolfe announced his resignation and Chancellor R. Bowen Loftin stepped down, stating that he would transition to a new role advancing research starting January 1st.

I applaud the efforts and determination from the student body to bring attention to the administration’s ongoing apathy regarding the racial outbreaks, but it is bothersome that no initiative was taken prior to the football team’s participation in the protests. I feel as if the University of Missouri was waiting for these protests to blow over, rather than joining the real fight against discrimination and racism on the campus. The idea of losing money is what truly pres-

Photo courtesy of Michael Cali/san diego union-tribune/tns

Mizzou students and supporters gather to rally against discrimination. sured the administration to step in and to end the strikes once and for all.

Great leaders do not turn their backs on the cry of injustice. It is important for the people highest up in the chain to be leading by

example, rather than by brushing uncomfortable issues aside to avoid unwanted attention. It is truly unfortunate that it took such a trivial reason for the administration to finally respond to an issue that had persistent advocates.

Looks

By Julia Maxman ’16 The timeline of any social media start up usually goes the same way: lack of knowledge about the site, its rise in popularity and finally, its decline from regular use. It is an endless cycle that keeps users constantly making new usernames and passwords for the latest “it” website. One of the first offenders of this pattern was MySpace; founded in 2002. At this time almost all teenagers and young adults had a MySpace account.

However, the rise of Facebook relegated MySpace to becoming an internet joke.

But like its predecessor in social media, Facebook too saw its decline as current social media sites became the new technological craze.

Both on a national level and at West Essex, Facebook users began to dwindle and profiles were rarely updated. According to Tech Times, the number of Facebook users had dropped over three percent over the past decade, while the users of apps such as Instagram and Snapchat have surged by almost 10 percent.

Over the past year, though, West Essex students have begun to reactivate those dormant “FB” accounts and update their profile pictures, perhaps last changed when they were in middle school.

This decline of Facebook can be attributed to two sources: the creation of newer, more modern apps, as well as the invasion of parents who began to create their own accounts.

Facebook once occupied the computers and phones of teens internationally, but the advent of Instagram, Twitter and Snapchat gave Facebook a run for its money. Each of these apps could do the same thing as Facebook only the newer apps have better

Features

The Wessex Wire Page 5

acebook is back in action speed and newer features.

“I stopped using Facebook because my mom started checking up on me and it just got boring,” senior Sabrina Palko said.

Facebook once served as a place where teenagers could escape the tedium of nagging parents and communicate only with their peers. However, as parents began signing onto the “Facebook world,” newsfeeds began to fill with educational articles, parents bragging about their children’s achievements and exciting new recipes to cook for dinner. What started out as a place for teen communication morphed into the base for high school reunions and embarrassing childhood photos, courtesy of parents.

Just as the fall of Facebook can be attributed to two main causes, its rise can also be attributed to two causes: college anxieties and younger generations just joining the Facebook world. According to Wearesocial. net, Facebook users have skyrocketed to just under two billion in the last year.

One possible explanation: College involves dorms. Dorms involve roommates.

Roommates involve searching through social media to find who you will share a small room with for a year. The newfound trend of Facebook use, at least for seniors, is that an updated, full Facebook profile shows who you are to potential roommates who cannot “stalk” you by means of Instagram and Twitter, which are mostly private accounts.

Facebook allows users to see part of someone else’s profile as well as chat, so users can communicate before they become “friends.”

“Now that I got into college, I need to find a roommate and I’m using Facebook to find one. So I have to make sure there are normal recent pictures of me, not collages from elementary school,” senior Andie Davis said.

graphic courtesy of statista (CC BY-ND)

Although Facebook did become less popular for a period of time as adults began to use it, Facebook has recently become more popular with the younger crowd like it once had been.

The underclassmen, who may have only recently created accounts, may not be as jaded when it comes to Facebook.

“My older siblings got a Facebook when I was a lot younger,” freshman Quinn Delehanty said, “so by the time I got one, I felt like no one older used it any more. But now the upperclassmen are starting to go on again.”

Unlike earlier in the past five years, much more recently, over the course of the last few years, FB users have increased dramatically.

According to Slideshare, Facebook users have skyrocketed to just under two billion in the last year.

If you had asked any senior about Facebook two years ago, they would probably respond with a laugh insinuating the joke Facebook had become. With college soon approaching and the younger classes having accounts, though, Facebook has been able to make a comeback. Perhaps it will not have the same fate as MySpace. Only time will tell.

VSCO: Stress-free app to post without ‘likes’

By Courtney Pappas ’16 People have fallen in love with posting about their lives through photos on social media. Parents are constantly posting about their child’s latest achievement and teens are posting endless amounts of selfies, whether it’s on Facebook on Instagram, the idea of posting has become a major part of people’s lives. And just when people thought they had every version of social media availible that enables you to post photos, there came VSCO. This year, VSCO has become the newest way for people to post their “artsy” pictures without the stress that is comes with posting on Instagram. Over the years, Instagram has steered away from an enjoyable blog and has become

an obsessive feed over “likes” and “creative captions.” People have begun to feel that if they do not achieve a certain standard of likes, their picture was bad. The fact that there is no liking on VSCO makes teens feel less stress over posting a picture. There is no fear of being judged when putting up pictues.

“I love VSCO because I can post as many photos as I want without being criticized because it is more private,” said junior Jenna Kenny.

This is a common theme seen through VSCO lovers. VSCO doesn’t have the “liking” options on photos which releases a stress factor. This factor has attracted many people the past year. People want to post as many photos as they want without having any worries. VSCO has a high potential for its future in social media.

Clockwise from top left: photos 1,3, and 4 Sophie Moyer Photos 2 and 5 Carly menendez.

November 2015 Issue 2

November 2015

Page 6

The Wessex Wire: Features

The holiday season: filled with Design by Brianna Crummy ’16 and Julia Maxman ’16

Food frenzies, football and friends; Friendsgiving is the newest trend

By Jewels Gutowski ’16 Thanksgiving dinner is known to leave you stuffed. After devouring all of that tasty food, it’s hard to believe that there are still leftovers. A lot of leftovers. But instead of just surviving on old Thanksgiving food for the next week, take those leftovers and create a sort of second Thanksgiving dinner, or “Friendsgiving.” This time not with your family, but rather with a group of close friends.

The day after the holiday is a great time to get together with your friends and enjoy a meal together.

You may be thinking that you will be busy Black Friday shopping, but you can’t shop forever.

Another Thanksgiving meal may be just the thing to satisfy your hunger after a day of fighting the crowds searching for the best holiday deals.

“I’m an only child so it was really

nice to spend time with my friends over Friendsgiving dinner because I consider them my extended family,” said senior Liam Fahey, who attended a Friendsgiving dinner last year.

Not only is starting this tradition a great idea for seniors who want to keep in touch with their high school friends, but also for all other students.

“Friendsgiving was really fun to do with my friends,” junior Caroline Lanfrank said. “I think we should make it a tradition.”

Eventually, busy schedules and attending college hundreds of miles away from your friends could make it very difficult to stay in touch. By establishing this tradition of having a Friendsgiving dinner early on, there will always be a solid plan to meet with your friends even after you graduate.

Making a Friendsgiving dinner does not require nearly as

much preparation as a normal Thanksgiving dinner because everyone just has to pitch in a leftover or two.

“I brought a lot of leftover turkey and everyone else brought something to the table, sort of like a potluck dinner,” senior Jake Smith said. “We actually ended up having more food than my family’s Thanksgiving dinner.”

This potluck style makes it easier for everyone, especially the host.

If you end up with no leftovers, no worries. You can still manage to prepare a meal by creating a list of food items and having everyone sign up to bring a few things on the list.

Friendsgiving is a great way to be thankful for your family and your friends. When asked what they are thankful for, so many people say their family and friends. So Friendsgiving is the perfect way to spend the holiday with both.

A few suggestions for a successful Friendsgiving Follow these tips and the night will be a hit •Each guest should contribute at least one food item; potluck style is the easiest, most stress-free way of having a successful Friendsgiving dinner.

•The host should set the table for a feast.

It should feel just as elaborate as any other Thanksgiving celebration. Name cards, center pieces and a tablecloth are key.

•Pie should definitely be made a priority. Whether it be apple, pumpkin, blueberry, cherry, key lime, lemon meringue, sweet potato, pecan or peach. —J.G.

Football fans give thanks and dedication to the game

By Jake Wolf ’17

Believe it or not, football is just as prevalent to Thanksgiving as the actual food itself. According to television industry website zap2it.com, an average of 28.4 million people in the United States watched each of the three 2014 Thanksgiving NFL games, compared to 17.6 million who watch other games.

Football has become such a large part of Thanksgiving that many people watch the games despite having little interest in the sport.

“I watch football on Thanksgiving because my family watches it and I try to get in the loop even if I don’t know what is going on,” junior Tori Rotonda said.

Even though Rotonda does not watch football on a weekly basis, she watches every year on Thanksgiving because of the bond the games help create with her family. Junior Hailey Coldon agrees that Thanksgiving is a good bonding experience, “because you all watch it together as a family.”

Thanksgiving has a long and storied tradition with athletics, and football in particular. According to the NFL Hall of Fame’s website, the first Thanksgiving Day football game was between Yale and Princeton in 1876, and the tradition was adopted by other colleges soon after. In 1892, the first professional players, from leagues less prominent than the

NFL, began to get involved in the holiday games. The tradition continued to grow until 1934, when the Detroit Lions of the NFL began to join in. The Lions, along with the Dallas Cowboys, still play on

Thanksgiving every year. The NFL has recently added a third game to the Thanksgiving football slate that is not specific to any particular team.

Some families are more passion-

ate about Thanksgiving football than others.

“I probably spend almost all of the day watching football with my family,” sophomore Justin Grey said. Grey still includes the usual

illustration by kerri astorino ’16

Thanksgiving traditions such as the large dinner, but his family emphasizes football as well.

“Of course I watch football on Thanksgiving; I’m American.”

Mr. Samuels said. “I eat turkey, sit down and watch football. It’s a great day.” Samuels also believes that football becoming a major tradition during Thanksgiving brings families closer together, because “every household in America gets together and roots against the Cowboys.”

NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell, naturally, strongly supports the Thanksgiving Day tradition. “I think it’s important that you have that opportunity to play on Thanksgiving Day and get that national audience,” he said on a conference call to Detroit Lions season ticket holders. It’s part of the tradition that we think is important in the NFL.” NFL fans are evidently in favor of Thanksgiving Games, as shown by the large number of viewers for games compared to the usual Sunday games.

Last year’s Thanksgiving football games ended with Seattle Seahawks defensive back Richard Sherman eating a turkey leg in the middle of the San Francisco 49ers’ field.

Hopefully, this year’s roundup of games between the Panthers and Cowboys, Bears and Packers, and Eagles and Lions can live up to last year’s highly entertaining set of games. America will be watching.

November 2015

Page 7

The Wessex Wire: Features

gobble, squabble and wobble Bare red cups at Starbucks brew Be a genie: Grant a wish controversy over holiday spirit

By Brianna Crummy ‘16

Angelwish has been granting wishes to children with chronic illness for the last 16 years. The global organization ensures that 100 percent of all the donations made reach the children. It is also a part of their goal to educate students on the importance of philanthropy and helping others. This holiday season, West Essex will be contributing to Angelwish’s efforts. The Student Council has stated plans to organize a Holiday Gift Drive to make the ailing children’s holiday season a little brighter.

Angelwish works differently from many other organizations that assist children spending time in hospitals. Make A Wish, for

By Julia Maxman ’16 The winter season is filled with numerous holidays: Kwanzaa, Hanukkah, New Year’s Eve and of course, Christmas. The holiday season is a time of celebration for all, but Christmas is usually the most publicized. However, instead of only following Christmas this holiday season, Starbucks has started its own trend, selling their drinks in unadorned red cups with the idea of making their cups religiously-friendly to all celebrating holidays of their respective religions. These cups which were once filled with Christmas ornaments and snowflakes, have been stripped of the designs to include the population in the country that do not have the same Christmas spirit.

The cups now remain a solid-red color with room for customers to draw their own holiday designs and “tell their own Christmas story.” While Starbucks’s goal was to make their cups religiously tolerant for the holiday season, there has been recent backlash on Twitter in which people have argued that the company hates

example, is known for making extravagant dreams come true: Accoriding to Make-A-Wish, each wish costs an average of $7,500 and each request is typically fulfilled by multiple donors.

Angelwish, however, makes smaller and direct donations to its recipients. Anyone looking to make a contribution can go onto their website and buy a gift for a specific child. Shimmy Mehta, founder and CEO of the organization, spoke to students at the beginning of October about the impact a donation makes on a family. “We know that the families are dealing with a lot of stress from all of the medical expenses and we don’t want them to worry about holiday gifts,” Mehta said.

Photos by julia maxman

While Starbucks tried to be religiously tolerant by omitting any holiday specific decorations, Dunkin Donuts had no problem explicitly adorning their cups with Christmas themed designs.

Jesus. Twitter hashtags including #MerryChristmasStarbucks target to cooperation claiming and stand behind the claim that the political correctness demon-

strated by the coffeehouse chain is in fact, a “war on Christmas.”

But like the opposing hashtag says in favor of Starbucks’s change in style, #ItsJustACup.

When did we decide to celebrate holidays two months in advance?

By Ceana Cuello ’16 As the holiday seasons approach, many retail stores decide to jump the gun and put out decorations in untimely months. In July, when everyone celebrates the end of the school year and enjoys the start of their summer break, some stores can barely wait two weeks before setting up displays of back to school shopping. People tend to be bummed out because no one wants to even fathom the idea of going back to school when everyone is still in summer mode. Even in August and the very beginning of September, many will start to see Halloween costumes, skeletons and even candy corn hit the aisles.

The inappropriate timing of the release of this decor sucks all the value of the holidays for many shoppers. It allows people to overlook the true meaning behind each individual holiday. People gain more excitement for holidays that are commercialized far in advance, rather than enjoying the actual

holidays of the month. People need to ignore the overdone exploitation of certain holidays and focus on creating memories and enjoying the holiday itself.

“Nothing bothers me more than walking into Target in the summer and already seeing back to school shopping posted throughout the store,” senior Isabella Russo said.

“Some stores need to take a few steps backwards and hold off on the sale of these items to let us enjoy the months we are in.”

Even though stores may think they are a helping people by giving them a “head start” on holiday shopping, they don’t give people enough processing time to get ready for the holiday itself.

Customers are definitely not ready for Christmas trees when they still are deciding between being a cop or a superhero for Halloween.

Holidays are definitely something to be excited for but shouldn’t be rushed. The true meaning of each individual holiday is taken for granted when stores sell items for

various holidays at once. It just completely takes away the anticipation and celebration that comes along with each individual holiday.

“Most stores over-commercialize the holidays and allow us to lose the true meaning of what the individual holidays should represent,” sophomore Christina Cammarata said.

If this trend continues in the direction it is going, in a few more years the true meaning behind the holidays will be lost. Consumers will only remember the commercialization of the holidays, which is what we all should steer away from.

Even if it’s impossible to completely stop stores from releasing these holiday items so early, customers can have a better judgement by slowing down their reaction time to wanting to purchase it. People need to ignore the fact that stores take advantage of the holidays for a profit and remember what the holidays are really about: celebrating and sharing good times with family and friends.

Photo by courtney pappas ’16

Page 8

The Wessex Wire: Features

November 2015

What’s really behind the briefcase?

That’s not Superman in the hallways, it’s Mr. Albanese!

By Isabel Tabs ’17 Cruising down the hallways, you can always spot the bulky black briefcase swinging attached to that cute old man. He’s my, your and our favorite sub, he’s Albo. Working at West Essex for a whopping 47 years, Don Albanese is a living journey of time here at West Essex.

Today students can typically find Mr. Albanese chilling in the back of the classroom helping a student with math while substituting. But his history with the school dates back to 1968, when Albo started as a math teacher, teaching everything from Algebra I to Pre-Calculus. In September 2002, Albo retired from his full-time teaching job but still wanted to continue working in a classroom environment.

“I come here for the students,” Mr. Albanese said. “It is good to feel like you’re wanted or needed when you get older.”

But Albo’s contributions to the West Essex community go beyond his dedication to educating students. Albo says he considers himself a jack-of-all-trades in terms of his high school careers as a varsity athlete in football, baseball and basketball. Albo wanted to continue working in athletics when

Photo courtesy of the Milestone

Mr. Albanese in his early years at West Essex.

he came to West Essex.

In the 1970s, Albo began coaching football for West Essex. He had some of his greatest victories coaching football. “It was exciting when we won the state championship in 1980 for football,” Mr. Albanese said. “The Star Ledger named us the number one team.”

Albo coached the boys tennis in the 1970s, took a break and started again in 1996. You can still spot Albo hitting those forward and backhands on the court today.

“Albo is an amazing coach,” sophomore Gillian Wasserman said. “He is patient and we always have fun on the courts with him.”

His work extends beyond being in front of the classroom, since Albo also worked over the summer from 1975-1990 as a maintenance worker. “It was a lot of work,” he said. “I had to clean all the classrooms, scrape the gum off the desks and wax the floors.” It was no easy task considering he had the night shift from 4 p.m. to midnight five times a week.

Albo has some other hidden secrets: He does the scoreboard for ice hockey, basketball and football.

He umpired for baseball and he is currently a math tutor for some students.

But past his genius math skills and passion for sports, Albo has the warm hearted side we always see. Twice a month on Fridays, teachers are allowed to wear jeans to school as part of a fund-raising initiative for various charities.

One of the charities is the Rett Syndrome Research trust. This charity event for the teacher is inspired by Albo’s granddaughter, Michelle, who has Rett syndrome.

Albo and his wife are dedicated to promoting awareness to this disease around the community. In fact, every spring Mrs. Albanese visits Ms. Careri’s Honors Biology classes to discuss Rett syndrome.

“Mrs. Albanese has extensive knowledge of this genetic disease, and has spent many years traveling the globe to Rett conferences.

Mrs. Albanese keeps up to date with the latest Rett treatments and research,” Ms. Careri said. “It is an honor to have her come to my class sharing her expertise knowledge in this field.”

Besides all of his extra activities he did and still does around our school, Albo has always had a love for math; and he’s extremely good at it. “I love it when Albo subs for my class,” junior Jessica Thies said.

“I always need help with math and he’s the perfect person to ask questions to outside math class.”

Albo is seen every day with

one constant fashion accessory: “There’s never a day where you see Albo without his briefcase,” said junior Zoe Stern. “It’s what makes Albo, Albo.” It’s the object

range wide and are usually centered around horror or fantasy. One theme created by Mr. Aschoff for his business is the Speakeasy. In this room the people playing the game need to collect clues to take down thugs running underground bars and casinos during the time of prohibition. The rooms use a series of special effects and decorations to immerse players into the game.

Other themes include one involving participants to find a missing senator and one involving participants to find secret scientists during the Cold War are offered at Mr. Aschoff ’s room escape business.

Mr. Aschoff ’s business has been expanding, and even English teacher Mr. Collins has lent a helping hand to staff some room escapes. “I enjoy the opportunity to meet new groups of people, and it is fun to see people work together to solve the puzzles in each room,”

Mr. Collins said about his experience working at Exit Strategy. He assists Mr. Aschoff in running the game and is even featured in an Exit Strategy promo video on the business’s website.

Business has been fairly successful for Mr. Aschoff and weekends bring in some of the biggest crowds.One of these weekend booking at Exit Strategy belonged to senior Marissa Inga. “As a lover of math, the problem solving aspect of the room escape game was perfect for me. I can’t wait to go back and try another differently themed room,” Inga said.

Another student, freshman Sammy Friedman, was particularly impressed by his experience playing at Exit Strategy.

“I went with some of my friends from the soccer team and it helped us think together and collaborate outside of the field. The game was good for team building,”

that completes his classic look. It’s full of many crossword puzzles, pencils, a calculator and paper.

“I’ve always had a briefcase since the ‘60s,” Albo said. “It’s sorta my desk and has always been since I never had a designated classroom.”

Looking back on his many years of teaching Albo recalls, “I guess I chose the right profession. I was always happy teaching math.”

Photo by Maddie Gering

Mr. Albanese stolling through the halls with his legendary briefcase.

Aschoff: More than a mathematician You can’t escape Mr. Aschoff ’s homework, but you can escape his game

By Julie Rosenberg ’16 Picture this: You walk into a room and the door closes behind you. You go to turn the doorknob to get out, but wait, you can’t.

You’re locked in.

This concept of being “locked in” was used by math teacher Mr. Aschoff and many others to create an up and coming trend: room escape games.

“I decided to open my own room escape business after coming home from a tour throughout Europe,” Mr. Aschoff said. “I played in a room in Budapest and really enjoyed it. I played everywhere

I visited after that. When I came home, I decided I wanted to bring the trend to this area.” Mr. Aschoff owns Exit Strategy, a creative company with locations in both Montclair and Wayne that creates room escape games.

Here’s how it works: A group of 2 to 10 people get locked in a room for 1 hour. This room has a theme and problem in need of a solution. Once the group solves the problem, they find the correct exit and escape the room. If the group can’t get themselves out in the time limit, they lose-but are still allowed out of the room and given the solution.

“I watch how long it takes my students to do a test in a period in order to see how long it will take people to solve problems in the game. It carries the same idea of solving something in a certain amount of time,” Mr. Aschoff said.

Themes for room escape games

Photo by Julie Rosenberg

Mr. Aschoff at his business Exit Strategy in Montclair.

Friedman said.

Room escape games have shown themselves popping up all over.

The exiting experience they offer has finally come to the east coast and Mr. Aschoff ’s Exit Strategy has hit the ground running.

&

Arts Arts

Culture Lawrence voices opinion on gender wage gap November 2015 Issue 2

The Wessex Wire Page 9

‘Hunger Games’ superstar sheds light on wage inequality between her and her ‘American Hustle’ male co-stars

By Jessica Cunha ’17 The public has continued to fall more and more in love with Jennifer Lawrence as she remains one of Hollywood’s biggest names.

Her down to earth, low key personality is refreshing in an industry that tries to present an unhuman like level of perfection.

So, when the Sony hack from November 2014 revealed that compared to Lawrence’s male costars in “American Hustle,” she was being paid significantly less, people were outraged that their beloved Oscar award-winning actress was being lowballed. Up until now, she has kept mum about the topic. But, in early October, Lawrence wrote and published an essay in Lena Dunham’s newsletter, “Lenny Letter,” finally expressing her opinion. In her personal writing, Lawrence reflected on how she often held back during contracts negotiations out of a desire to maintain her likeability.

“I did not want to seem ‘difficult’ or ‘spoiled,’ Lawrence said.

“At the time, that seemed like a fine idea, until I saw the payroll on the Internet and realized every man I was working with definitely didn’t worry about being “difficult” or “spoiled.”

Junior Madison Gemma said she was upset over the truths that Lawrence exposed.

“It just doesn’t seem fair at all.

She is giving the same amount of

effort to the movie yet her pay does not show that at all.” Gemma said.

“I am so surprised that people are doing this to her considering she is such a famous actress. It just shows that this can happen to anyone.”

Many other Hollywood celebs, both male and female, have since commended Lawrence for bringing attention to a reoccurring issue within the industry. Influential figures such as Emma Watson, Amy Schumer, Bradley Cooper and more have stood behind her.

“Putting a microscope on it and having the impact that it’s had is a great thing,” Cooper said of hiring practices along gender lines in a interview on Oct. 29 with BBC. Obviously transparency is necessary in order to help that equilibrium occur.

However, along with the positive support, people have criticized.

On the Oct. 19 airing of Fox News’ “Fox and Friends,” Meghan McCain voiced her opinion that Lawrence’s Hollywood status desensitizes her from working women’s struggles.

“You have to fight for what you think your value is,” McCain said, “and not all of us are going to have a Bradley Cooper here to bail us out and, you know, come in and get paid as much as I’m going to get paid.”

How big is the wage gap for the average women exactly? Data from a 2014 study by the women’s rights group AAUW, which reported that

Photo Courtesy of Red carpet Report (CC By 2.0)

Jennifer Lawrence at the 83rd Academy Awards at which she was nominated for her performance in “Winter’s Bone.”

women are earning 79 percent of men’s salaries. Essentially, what this means is that if two people are doing the same job and are applying the same amount of effort, gender is the factor in this 21 percent pay gap. To go even further, depending on the state, this difference in pay can be either better or worse. In New Jersey, a woman can expect to make 80 percent of a man’s salary, only a sliver better than the average.

For women of color, this wage gap is even more significant, with

the data showing that white women earned more in similar fields.

The only way to make significant change is for these corporations to actively monitor these salaries and insure that this overwhelming imbalance is corrected.

From a male’s perspective, it may be easier to desensitize themselves from the issue of gender equality rather than face it head on. However, junior Steven Lucero said he feels that it is not solely a woman’s problem, but a human one.

“It is unfair that in the 21st century, women are still being treated without respect,” Lucero said.

“That’s basically what it comes down to. Employers need to start to take women seriously.”

Even though Lawrence is well off, her experience is putting a spotlight on the underlying issue of a lack of gender equality in not just Hollywood, but beyond. The more people voice that this discrimination is unacceptable, the greater of a chance that progress will be made.

“That 70’s Show” The reunion of That 70’s Show called “The Hatch” will star Ashton Kutcher, Mila Kunis and Danny Masterson.

The producers state that for now it is going to be a seven episode miniseries, and if the ratings are good they may continue with the show. Kutcher’s character, Kelso, is returning home after being in Colorado for several years and the

miniseries will tell the stories of the original characters’ later lives.

Former viewers are showing great excitement over the potential this news show has.

“I grew up watching ‘That 70’s Show’ show with my family,” senior Tess Dyer said. “It was our favorite show and I cannot wait to see where all the characters have ended up. I am also so excited to see Kunis and Kutcher acting together again.”

Fans eagerly await the release of “Full House,” “That 70’s Show” and “Gilmore Girls” reunion shows Netflix has announced plans to produce reunion episodes and seasons of popular 90’s and early 2000’s shows such as “Full House”, “Gilmore Girls” and “That 70’s Show.” The original series were so successful that they are hoping the reunions will have the same response to audiences.

As the promotions are beginning to air, fans are eager to see how the revival seasons and episodes of their favorite childhood shows will be.

House,” which takes viewers on a tour of the family years after the ending of the original show.

The first episode aired in 1987 and soon after became a success.

191 episodes later the last episode aired with over 13 million viewers.

“Fuller House” is about the children from “Full House,” DJ, Kimmy and Stephanie and their lives with children of their own in San Francisco.

The season starts off with Kimmy and Stephanie lending a helping-hand to the newly widowed DJ. “Fuller House” is set to air in early 2016 as fans eagerly await its release.

“I cannot wait for the reunion season. I am excited to see what the producers have come up with.

I hope that it just as great as the original series,” senior Devon Forte said.

“Full House” The original hit show is now coming out with a 13 episode reunion season called “Fuller

“Gilmore Girls” The dramedy first premiered in 2000 and aired until 2007. The show follows the life of a single

By Madison Gering ’16

“” I hope that [‘Fuller House’] is just as great as the original series.

— Devon Forte

mother and her daughter living in Stars Hollow, Conn.

Netflix is producing four 90 minute episodes, one for each of the four seasons: fall, winter, spring, summer. After almost a decade off the air, the show’s reunion is set to catch up with each of the characters in their present day lives.

“I have never been so excited to see the return of a TV show,” senior Isabelle Caine said. “I have watched every season of ‘Gilmore Girls’ and I cannot wait to see where the characters are now.

I hope that it is as good as the original series was.”

From top:“Jennifer Lawrence at the 83rd Academy Awards Red Carpet” by Mingle Media Tv(CC BY-SA 2.0) (https://www.flickr.com/photos/minglemediatv/5485153604)/

Netflix is set to resurrect three fan favorite TV shows

November 2015

The Wessex Wire: Arts & Culture

Page 10

Older fashion trends make their way back

By Jules Moskowitz ’17

Some trends die fast, while others are timeless. But, there is no doubt that style can define an era. Some pieces of fashion have such an impact that they make a comeback.

Now, trends that our parents used to rock are showing up in our hallways.

Choker Necklace

In the 1800’s women wore ribbon around their necks, and later ballerinas and royalty were seen wearing things resembling the choker. But somewhat more recently, chokers are best known for the ’90s tattoo chokers.

“They’re always accessorising my outfits,” freshman Tori Mielnicki said. Chokers are also a versatile accessory, and can be worn no matter the occasion, either formal or informal.

West Essex students wear all sorts of variations of them by layering them with other necklaces to accessorize.

Scrunchies

Those fabric covered hair elastics popular in the late ’80s are making a comeback. Scrunchies can be worn as hair ties, or on a wrist as an accessory.

They are often worn during sports and even used to accessorize an outfit.

“I play soccer in scrunchies, they keep my hair up tight and look pretty too” junior Ellie Mead said.

The utility of the scrunchie makes them popular among students, and the variety of colors and styles makes it easy to match it with any outfit. Watch for scrunchies wrapped around students’ wrists, or wrapped in their hair.

Adidas Superstars

In 1969, Adidas Superstars were worn as basketball shoes. Athletes wore them strictly for sports back in the day, but in the ’80s they took off as trendy fashion statements.

The shoes are known as one of the rare cases where athletic wear translated to mainstream fashion. This year alone, 11 new colors of the shoe were released.

Flannels

Flannels, though not necessarily qualifying for “comeback” status, are still as popular as ever. Ever since farmers wore them in the 17th century, flannels have managed to stay in style one way or another. People love flannels because they’re easy.

“They’re comfortable and soft,” junior Shane Smith said. These button-downs are warm and comfortable and go great with a denim jean. Not to mention, flannels are also asexual and flatter both men and women’s wardrobes. “Flannel Friday” is also a trend, seen through West Essex. Flannels are super easy to wear, comfy and compliment all sorts of outfits and looks.

“They’re comfortable and I like the way they look — they basically go with any outfit,” sophomore Eiman Osman said. These comfy MVPs run best with everyday outfits.

PhotoS By Jules Moskowitz and Pat Glenn

Revisiting the classic ‘Back to the Future’ 30 years later Zemeckis’s initial prediction of the future still mananges to hold true.

By Courtney Pappas ’16 “Uh, Jennifer, um, I don’t know how to tell you this, but I... you’re in a time machine.”

“And this is the year ‘2015’?”

“October 21st, 2015.”

In the iconic movie “Back to the Future,” Marty McFly traveled 30 years into the future, which is now the present, of 2015. After decades

of waiting to compare the film’s predictions to what would actually during that time, we have finally made it. Shockingly enough though, Marty McFly’s foretellings weren’t too far off from reality.

He indicated that TVs would be flat, which is what we see in basically every home today, on plasma screens. On the TVs he thought we would use them to

video chat. While we may not video chat through the TV, the use of Skype and Oovoo has been used for the past 10 years through our computers, as well as the more recent FaceTime.

McFly was also able to guess that we would create 3D images on the screen. Now 3D is seen in theaters, homes and in video games. The last prediction to come true was the use of drones.

Recently, drones have been used to film events such as live concerts from a bird’s-eye view angle. While hoverboards are not

here as McFly predicted, they are in the process of becoming a reality. International Lexus launched a tester hoverboard in June.

The project took 18 months to create this floating skateboard.

While the product is not complete and perfected yet, it is in the making. While his prediction for hoverboards was a few years shy, his other projections were much more accurate.

While McFly did have some good predictions, not everything could come true. When most people predict the future, they

picture flying cars but in reality, what would be the benefit of that? It would just cause harm so this dream will most likely never come true. 30 years ago though, McFly made predictions about what would be seen by Oct. 21, 2015 and he came pretty close to the truth.

Now, 30 years later seeing how 2015 turned out, the next thought is what is coming for 2045. West Essex students will be in their late 40s and who knows what possibilities and potential innovations the future has to offer.

November 2015

The Wessex Wire: Sports

Page 11

New fantasy kings arise, older formats fight for relevance Year-long fantasy football will never change and will also never lose the high popularity it has gained

Fantasy football is changing quickly, and weekly fantasy sites are becoming the greater choice for all players

By Daniel Laible ’18

By Chris Tsakonas ’18

Fantasy football is a season long, stressful and exhilarating time of the year for most football fans to become immersed in from the day the draft time is set.

Draft day is one of the best times of the year for many people, from fretting over who you pick up in the draft, to what sleepers you are going to pick in the later rounds that will make or break your team.

There’s something about feeling confident in your team before the season starts while arguing with everyone else in your league over how talented your team actually is.

Deep down, you realize this and there is almost something fun about finding that gem on the waiver wire or trading someone in order to improve your team.

Photo courtesy of mike centrella’ 17 “I love finding someone perfect for your team and picking him up before everyone Year-long fantasy formats consist of head-toelse notices,” junior Michael DeFranza said. head games instead of overall group standings.

“It is part of the reason I love the season long format.” He has played fantasy football With the rise of these daily leagues, many for four years and doesn’t want to ruin his people are hopping on the bandwagon and experience by playing in the daily leagues. going along with it. They choose to leave The year-round format forces you to be their season-long leagues with minimal more invested and focused on your one attention because all they care about is winteam, instead of thinking that you will just ning money from the different formats of play certain players next week rather than games available. this week.

These leagues are a band of people that Many people would play year round fanta- become very close during this time of year, sy rather than week to week because playing from watching the games together, talking against your friends, family and strangers to each other about trades, or how well can all be fun. Playing in the weekly leagues your team is doing. The season long format is all about winning money, which depends is truly a community of people who are all on your matchup—no season long commit- considered members of a “family,” people ment or playoffs at the end of the year. who stay together through this great game.

Fantasy football has changed in the last few years. The rise of daily/weekly fantasy leagues is revolutionizing fantasy sports.

At the apex of this revolution are two online companies that run these formats: DraftKings & FanDuel.

They’ve become household names overnight, thanks to their aggressive ad campaigns. Now, you can’t go one NFL commercial break without seeing at least one 30-second spot of a guy telling you how much money you can win by simply picking a team and paying a small fee to join a league.

We hear stories from people who claim to have won thousands of dollars online by clicking a few names.

“Weekly sites are more meaningful in the terms that you can actually win a good amount of money on them,” junior Mike Centrella said.

This has turned the whole industry upside down for the better. The old fantasy leagues would require you to go through an entire season with the same team.

Weekly leagues changed all that. If you don’t have the time to commit yourself to an entire season, or just want to earn some quick cash, this is a much better option. It’s fast, efficient and easy. If a player doesn’t perform as well as you expect him to, you aren’t stuck with him the whole year.

This massive paradigm shift hasn’t been without controversy. The entire weekly fantasy industry is running under shaky legal ground. Sports betting is illegal in most of the United States (with the exception of gam-

Photo courtesy of Mike centrella ’17

Players cost money on weekly fantasy sites such as DraftKings and FanDuel.

bling hotbeds like Las Vegas and Atlantic City). Some now say that the websites are a form of gambling, and should be shut down, like what has happened recently in New York.

But this is nothing like gambling.

Gambling involves games of chance which rely on pure luck. The casino always wins in every format of the game. Weekly fantasy leagues require strategy on the part of the player when he selects his lineup.

Overall, the weekly fantasy system enjoys numerous advantages that the traditional model simply can’t offer. It is simply the next step in the evolution of fantasy sports, an adaptation of the old-fashioned way fit for the new, digital-based era.

N.Y. Attorney General declares weekly fantasy sites illegal

By Kirk Geller ’16 New York Attorney General Eric Schneiderman announced in early November that he considers daily fantasy sports as illegal gambling in the state.

Schneiderman has sent ceaseand-desist notices to the two highest-profile daily fantasy sports sites, DraftKings and FanDuel.

Schneiderman demanded that the two popular businesses stop accepting wagers from anyone using the sites in New York state.

“Our review concludes that DraftKings and FanDuels operations constitute illegal gambling under New York law,” Schneiderman said in a letter obtained by networks ESPN and ABC News.

Daily fantasy sites argue that their sites and businesses are based on games of skill, not wagers, and have used the Unlawful

Internet Gambling Enforcement Act of 2006 to support their claims as legal operations.

DraftKings and FanDuel have gained major popularity in fantasy football over the past few years, attempting to clear out the older year-long format.

Schneiderman said that the customers of the two largest daily fantasy sites “are clearly placing bets on events outside their control of influence, specifically on the real game performance of professional athletes.”

Gambling is illegal in many different states due to its nature, obviously not including well-known destinations such as Las Vegas and Atlantic City, although the ladder slowly loses popularity due to the tourism industry.

Other states have been active in figuring out the future of daily fantasy within their communities. In October, a representative

in Illinois submitted the first daily fantasy regulation bill, and both officials from New Jersey and Pennsylvania held hearings regarding weekly fantasy formats in early November.

“Fantasy sports is a game of skill and legal under New York State law,” FanDuel said in a statement. “This is a politician telling hundreds of thousands of New Yorkers they are not allowed to play a game they love and share with friends, family, coworkers and players across the country.”

“We are very disappointed that New York Attorney General Eric Schneiderman took such hasty action today,” DraftKings said in their own argument. “We strongly disagree with the reasoning in his opinion and will examine and vigorously pursue all legal options to ensure customers in New York State can continue to play the fantasy sports games they love.”

DraftKings and FanDuel asked Justice Manuel Mendez for an injuction, stating that the attorney general has wrongly accused their businesses of false accusations.

Justice Mendez has already declined and both sites will no longer be able to provide their services in New York.

“They have not taken action yet to somehow enjoin the plaintiff from continuing to engage in there business here in New York,” Mendez said. Both sites were ordered to return to court on Nov. 25.

FanDuel and DraftKings both had hundreds of thousands of players in New York state.

Arizona, Iowa, Louisiana, Montana and Washington prohibit fantasy sports for money.

Several additional states do not allow forms of weekly fantasy sites for their communities due to their relations with gambling.

What you think

Should weekly fantasy sites such as FanDuel and DraftKings be considered illegal?

Yes 39%

No 61%

100 students polled; compiled by chris tsakonas ’18 and dan laible ’18

November 2015 Issue 2

The Wessex Wire Page 12

Teachers still find ways to show their game

By Kirk Geller ’16

The West Essex faculty works hard and dedicates themselves to present the students with the best available education, but some teachers in our school extend themselves past teaching. Some teachers excel in more than just the subjects they teach, competing in many different athletics including field hockey, baseball and even kickboxing. Many different teachers, though, also train to participate in a number of different races and events.

English teacher Ms. Zuppa, over the past two years, has been involved in two different mud run races, an event in which participants navigate through a course consisting of various obstacles that are covered with mud. Ms. Zuppa and her husband, Giuseppe, are currently training to compete in the same race together for the first time when they head to Citizens Bank Park in Philadelphia for a Spartan Race. The training she and her husband do is extremely energy-draining, but they know that it will pay off in the long run.

“The races help me build motivation and help me become more conscious even though I’ve had to work around my teaching schedule,” Ms. Zuppa said.

Along with Ms. Zuppa, many other West Essex teachers have com-

Ms. Zuppa (center) poses with fellow faculty and friends after completing a mud run.

peted in either a mud run or Spartan Race in their life. These teachers include Mr. Myerson, Ms. Wall, Ms. Celentano and even principal Mr. Diliberto participates.

“It definitely helps perseverance and it builds your ego which is always helpful when you’re my age,” Diliberto said. “It’s a lot of fun and a real bonding experience with whoever you do it with.”

Physical education teacher Mr. Llauget played in a semi-pro base-

ball league up until 2010 when he decided to focus solely on coaching.

He played for over 10 years and even started playing summer baseball along with other leagues at the age of 13. Llauget’s knowledge of the game and past experience with actually playing the sport has helped him gain new insights on how to coach his players and give them motivation during difficult games.

Mr. Linsalato also uses his qualities from his past training to improve

Photo courtesy of Ms. Zuppa

his teaching skills as a physical education teacher. Linsalato trained in kickboxing for about six years where

he learned to build intensity, work ethic and handling discomfort in certain situations.

“In my transition to teaching, the qualities from kickboxing helped me with the work ethic and confidence aspect of my daily responsibilities as a teacher,” Mr. Linsalato said.

“Being able to understand what my players have to endure and playing myself has certainly advanced how I coach and the way I handle the kids,” Llauget said. With the knowledge of actually playing the game, Llauget is able to change his coaching style to fit any situation.

These teachers show great dedication by finding time to compete in different events or participate in different sports that hold a passion for. They each learned from these periods in their lives and were able to take certain lessons from them and apply them to their everyday lives.

Showing great resolve for what they care about, students can easily learn from the teachers they see every day.

Wise Words: Coach Freda

“Games aren’t always won on Friday or Saturday, but on the practice field the week leading up to the game during training and preparation.”

A year after Sayreville, ideals of true hazing still remain controversial

By Caitlin Morrissey ’16

One year after a hazing scandal rocked the Sayreville War Memorial High School football season, all those affiliated with high school sports, either as an athletic director, athlete, coach or manager are still reeling from the chilling facts revealed in the case. In the wake of such gorrifying events, one question still lingers: what truly constitutes hazing and where the line is drawn between team tradition and abuse?

At West Essex, several successful athletic programs are built upon their specific traditions. They are what create bonds between players and formulate team identities.Part of that team camaraderie, historically, is built on the idea of paying your dues. Freshmen team members are usually seen carrying heavy ball bags every day, to and from practice, or must get an enormous jug of water for the entire team before warm-ups, regardless of when

practice or that day’s game starts, or what their other obligations are for school or other activities. It is their job, and if they don’t do it right, there’s a problem.

“As a freshman, I had to carry the heaviest ball bags ever. I was the only one, so obviously it was my job, but I accepted it and never complained. I saw it as a ‘rite of passage’.

It’s a part of being a team,” senior lacrosse player Skyler Simson said.

Seniors and juniors only feel this way because they had to do the same things. The same jobs, the same time restraints and had to respect the same demanding upperclassmen. So, it’s only normal to assume that as we get older, and as we move up the totem poles on our teams, our laborious responsibilities lessen and our moral and performance responsibilities become greater.

The universal treatment of freshmen, in all sports, is justified under the assumption that all players have undergone similar “experiences.” It

is through this seemingly continuous routine and accepted practice that our feelings as freshmen are forgotten, and the emotions of our current freshmen are neglected.

“I hate having to go get the cages on and off the field everyday and I have to carry a ball bag filled with more than 50 balls,” freshman field hockey player Julia Vardiman said.

The events that occurred in the locker room at Sayreville High School are considered extreme cases of hazing. They are felonies and are usually never seen in most athletic programs. But smaller cases of hazing may be considered as giving freshmen players the responsibility of carrying balls for the whole season, or making the underclassmen perform an important team tradition.

In the case of the 2012 women’s lacrosse team at Franklin and Marshall College in Lancaster, Pa., an optional team bonding activity, which included an egg race, a whipped cream pie-eating contest

and the creation of “inappropriate” shirts, was ruled as hazing by the college’s administration. Their 2012 campaign was cut short and the seniors on the team were suspended from other campus activities for the remainder of the year. Their coach, Lauren Paul, who led the team to a national championship three years before the claims to hazing arose, was fired.

“Our team has a very tight knit bond,” head girls soccer coach Coach Decker said. “I attribute that to the fact that no matter what grade level of the player makes the team they are all treated like equals. The team rotates duties for equipment, pairs up with players in drills of different ages, among other things. As a coach, I think it is important to instill those values right in the beginning, that way the standard is set. If a young player feels comfortable among the older players, I think that will bring out the best in them,” In order to find a solution

to this vague issue, West Essex student-athletes believe that simple communication can be the answer.

According to business consultant Bruce Tuckman, ”All teams will go through expected stages of development, from forming to storming to ‘norming,’ and eventually, performing, and navigating through these stages effectively will help teams build relationships.”

These relationships will create strong relationships that will foster more appreciation for their teammates as people, undefined by their year in school.

“Being more cognizant of how underclassmen feel can definitely help in defining what hazing truly is,” said senior soccer player Michelle Inga. “We don’t always know what really is going on in their life, so if we just simply ask, ‘what’s up?’ and “is everything O.K.?’ every once in awhile, they can probably feel more appreciated, and therefore begin to find value in their positions.”