The Wessex Wire (April 2007)

Teacher arrested ...p. 1 New course selection......... p.2

Vol. XLVII No.4

Senior enlists in Navy.... p.6 Athlete recruited......p. 12

Religion in school............p. 8 Niang improves track team.........p. 13

West Essex High School, 65 West Greenbrook Road, North Caldwell, NJ

April 2007

Teacher arrested for sexually assaulting student Kristen Ricigliano ‘07

A 33-year-old English teacher from West Essex High School has been arrested and charged with having a sexual relationship with a male student, according to the state Attorney General’s office as of Saturday March 24th.

Michelle Morano of Cedar Grove was arrested early Friday morning while on her way to work.

She was charged with sexual as-

sault and lodged in the Essex County Jail in lieu of $200,000 bail.

Morano is suspected of having a sexual relationship with a boy student at West Essex High School.

The boy told authorities that the relationship with the teacher began last year when he was 17, though he has since turned 18, according to the Star-Ledger.

“It gives our school such a bad reputation, and it is really sad that this has happened in addition to all

of the problems here,” said senior Alexa Centrella.

The superintendent of the school district did not return calls seeking comment and Board President Sharon Buge was unavailable to speak about the arrest.

“I heard that other teachers are defending her,” said senior Amanda Roche.

According to a news release issued by the Attorney General’s office, Morano’s involvement with the student came to light when the Of-

fice of Insurance Fraud was conducting an unrelated investigation at the school.

No charges have been brought forward as a result of the insurance fraud investigation, which is ongoing, said spokesman Peter Aseltine.

Morano has been ordered to surrender her passport and not to have any communication or contact with the student.

She was arraigned in court on Monday, April 2, at 9 AM in Essex County.

ASSEMBLY

“Most significant case” deals with risks of drunk driving Tom Grossi ‘07 Cassie Neugold ‘09

The senior and sophomore classes of West Essex were surprised by an assembly called “The Most Significant Case of My Career” on the morning of March 6th, a late opening due to the junior’s HSPA testing.

Mr. Stephen Benvenisti, Esq., came to West Essex to teach an important lesson.

He told the story of a young college boy, who was a model student throughout high school: he had friends, played sports, and was even the prom king. He continued to be an outgoing and focused student at The College of New Jersey.

One year, he took a road trip for spring break with a few friends.

Although he did not drink any alcohol, he was struck on his way back to his hotel by a drunk driver who could not control his car.

He was immediately rushed to the hospital, his family in New Jersey was notified, and it was discovered that he had many severe injuries.

His family was told that he had a small chance of surviving, and even if he did, he would never be able to walk again.

A few minutes after stunning the students with the story of this young man’s horrifying ordeal, Mr. Benvenisti shocked the audience again by revealing that he was the young man, and that this happened eighteen years ago.

Mr. Benvenisti’s family was told that after the accident and brain

damage, he was destined to a life of permanent rehabilitation and life-long care. At that time, con-

Saperstein, & Salomon P.C. He is also married with two children. Mr. Benvenisti is fully recovered from his accident and said that he runs several times per week and has no physical limitations.

His mission now is trying to decrease the number of drunk drivers, having been victimized by a drunk driver himself.

He gave the students a “Contract for Life” to read and sign with their parents.

The contract ensures the students that their parents would pick them up if they Benvenisti came to West Essex and told his story have consumed alon the morning of March 6th, in order to help cohol, so that they students make better decisions when it comes to would not have to drunk driving.

-photo by Wessex Wire drive home drunk. tinuing college and law school “I think this seminar is important seemed unrealistic. to give to all drivers, regardless of His recovery took two years, their age,” Mr. Benvenisti said, and with six months of hospitalization, added, “High school students are fifteen surgeries, and intense reha- new drivers, and I would prefer that bilitation. they begin their driving experience Despite this news, he graduated with safe values.” college with high honors, and went Traveling the country speaking on to pass the New Jersey and about “the most significant case of Pennsylvania bar exams on his first his career”, and going to medical try. Mr. Benvenisti is now a suc- conventions to speak about his micessful partner at New Jersey’s top raculous recovery, Mr. Benvenisti personal injury law firm, Davis, hopes that students will learn a lot

from his experience, and make better decisions.

“Although it is not directly discussed in my program, I hope that students benefit from hearing my story by realizing that no matter how difficult life may seem to them now, with hard work and determination, there are no limits to how far an individual can go in life,” he said.

“I recognize how hard high school can be, along with life’s pressures which exist in the teenage years,” he added, “It’s important for teenagers to realize that any negatives experiences of high school life which may exist, will one day just be a memory.

Life definitely gets much better and each and every one of us can fulfill our dreams, even if it doesn’t seem realistic right now.”

KEY CLUB HOLDS DRIVE

The Key Club is collecting sports equipment, new, lightly used, or in good condition, to donate to the troops in Iraq.

The soldiers can use mitts, bats, balls, pads and helmets for baseball, ping pong paddles, or horseshoes. Look for collection boxes in both the main office as well as Room 38.

Here is a chance to support the troops who are fighting for us.

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news

2004

NEW CLASSES

Expanded course selection for next year Elliot Kartus ‘09

As guidance begins scheduling for the 2007-2008 school year, students now have the option of enrolling in new courses and old course options that have been updated.

The English department has the most added courses: four College Preparatory level electives, Voices in Literature, Shakespeare Seminar, Great Books, and Write to Speak.

T h e S h a k e s p e a re S e m i n a r course is a first semester course aimed at giving students a more ind e p t h s t u d y o f Wi l l i a m Shakespeare’s writing.

The course not only discusses the writings of Shakespeare but also the Globe Theatre, the Monarchy of Queen Elizabeth I, and Age of Discovery.

Voices in Literature is a second semester course. The course “offers students exposure to the role that minorities and women have played throughout the ages and their significant voices they use to bring forth their plight and vision of society” according to the West Essex “Program of Studies”.

The literary curriculum may include Mary Shelley, Agatha Cristie, and Maya Angelou.

The course Adolescent Literature has been renamed Great Books.

“This class is devoted to develop a love of reading through reading, writing, and speaking,” according to the “Program of Studies” which also states that this course “will foster a love of reading.”

Public speaking and speech writing are important skills in the business world and the new class Write to Speak is designed to help students improve these abilities.

Examination and debate of current topics and sensitive issues will also help the students to hone their thinking skills.

The Theatre Arts class will not appear on the course schedule next year owing to “budget constraints” and “a lack of student interest,” according to the Director of Guidance Jayne Bembridge.

A final new course has also been added to the English department.

The English IV AP course, which currently covers both literature and composition, has been split up into English III AP and English IV AP. English III AP will cover the composition portion of the AP course.

A new AP course was added in the Art Department. It is “designed to provide the student with the same information they would likely encounter in a college introductory art history course.”

This course was added for its “very popular” reaction from the students, according to Bembridge.

Very few changes have been made in the foreign language department except regarding Spanish courses.

Two new courses, Conversational Spanish I and II CP, have been added to the curriculum, replacing the current Extended Spanish course. There is also the possibility of a Spanish V Honors course.

Although more changes have not occurred this year, Spanish History and Spanish Literature are being looked at to be added for 08-09 according to Bembridge.

Both of these courses would be Honors, fourth year courses.

The Mathematics department has lost its connection to the multi-media courses under its department, as they have been moved to the business section this year.

There has also been a change to the Discrete Math C course.

The last changes that were made to the schedule were to the Science Department.

The current science elective, Earth Science, that is a CP course is being phased out by the Guidance Department and replaced with two new courses, Environmental Issues CP and Marine Science CP. The Environmental Issues course will discuss the main principles of Ecology and environmental issues specifically those that apply specifically to New Jersey.

Students will also cover “the human causes of environmental change including sociological, psychological, anthological, historical, economic, political, and moral perspectives” according to the course selection book.

The second course, Marine Science, will discuss everything to do with the oceanography.

The course starts on a small scale analyzing the different factors that keep ocean life going and look at microscopic organisms.

Getting broader, the courses talks about the governments role in preserving the ocean. The ocean’s vast and varying ecosystem is the main focus of the course.

Two other courses were considered to replace of Earth Science but were not accepted for various reasons, including as budget restrictions and lack of student interest Meteorology and Astronomy.

An expansion in the Business department was discussed but no courses have been added.

Bembridge said that she hopes to expand the business department in the future, as well as expand the DECA and FBLA clubs at the

school.

The topic of grade point average weighting in AP courses and to Honors courses was widely discussed, especially with the addition of the new courses English III AP and Art History AP. Bembridge said that a clear majority of people on the AP committee are in favor of weighting the AP courses higher and a change could be made in the coming years.

NATIONAL HONOR SOCIETY INDUCTEES Katie Clavin ‘07

Eligible juniors finally finished the grueling process of applying for National Honor Society and were rewarded with an induction ceremony. Students had to have a 3.75 cumulative GPA or better and at least 30 hours of community service to be considered for the program. After filling out the Eligibility Packet, a panel judges each candidate on their character, leadership, and service.

Each candidate was required to be active in school programs such as fund raising, key club, peer leadership, stu-

dent council, academic courses, and other school related activities. Program advisors must give their signature verifying the student’s participation.

In addition, candidates need 3 leadership references, 3 character references, and a list of his/her work experience. The candidate must then write a Statement of Intent in which they express the commitment and contribution they intend to offer NHS. The 72 juniors who completed the Eligibility Packet properly and were chosen to join the program were inducted on Thursday night, March 29th, by current NHS members.

Inductees Andrew Pryor Jamie Hardy Cassandra Natali Arielle Schneck Michael Ryan Joseph Muglia Thomas Ponsart Jacqueline Nasisi Jennifer-Ann Picariello Jenny Wang Lauren Fallat Emily Albulescu Nicole Magliaro David Grau Cory Atkins James Mariani Jessica Quick Thomas Carney Lauren Crooks Nicole Burak John Auriemma Stephanie Caputo Billy Mensch Ethan Miller

Tara Schulman Sara Dunberg Jordan Entin Josh Marx Meridith Satz Ashley Begega Jacqueline Farnese Joshua Sigler Thomas Carragher Simone Billeci Amanda Nichols Megan Toumanious Sydney Gross Jack Vidovich Tara Molesworth Michael Rieckert Janine Buonomo Marietta Alessi Melissa Weston Justin Lisa Dayaamayi Kurimella Caitlin McGarrity Maria Dontas Michael Middleton

Michelle Lupo Melissa Munoz Kristin Kuscin Alex Zisis Joe Giordano Daniel Malet Matthew Dolph Angela Rombola Christina Paparella Britnee Berandino Robert Plucinsky Allison Shearin Ashley Safir Tim Pierce Alexa Bernstein Robin Miller Nicole Berse Rosemary O’Connor Sarah Roth Cara Silverman Rebecca Spano Jen Silverstein Christopher Jung Tara Schulman

news

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wessex wire - april 2007

wessex wire-january 2004 BLOCK SCHEDULING

Longo petitions for institution of alternative scheduling Victoria Gualtieri ‘09

An end to the nine period days could come sooner than expected for the students of West Essex. Alternative scheduling, more specifically known as flexible rotating drop scheduling, is currently petitioned to the Board of Education by Principal Barbara Longo, who hopes that it will be put into place within a couple years.

Alternative scheduling cannot be put into practice now since the freshmen are still in the junior high. With both buildings sharing teachers, the different schedules would conflict.

But once the freshmen move to the senior high, the teachers would not have to move between schools therefore allowing alternative scheduling.

West Essex has researched alternative scheduling in other schools by having teachers, parents, and students go to these schools and observe their daily routine, according to Longo.

Students at other schools have said that they prefer this type of scheduling over the traditional scheduling currently in place at West Essex.

“I like it,” said sophomore Allie Guccione who attends Montclair Kimberly Academy, a school that uses alternative scheduling. “You don’t have every class everyday, so it gives you more time in between classes to get the work done.”

Alternative scheduling is a type of academic scheduling that allows students to have classes for a longer period of time. More particularly, “the flexible rotating drop” being petitioned at the board changes the length of class time to 56 minutes, decreasing the number of classes taken by students with 3 in the morning and 3 in the afternoon. Students would also have lunch at the same time.

The “rotating” and “drop” comes in when 8 classes are rotated and dropped within the six available time slots.

With the switch to alternative scheduling, students can benefit from the changes, according to Longo.

With labs taken out of lunch, the problem of missing gym would be alleviated. Longer lab periods would also allow for full use of the science

classrooms.

But the foremost reason is that during the fifty-five minute lunch period, classrooms, the computer room and the library will be open to students.

This change would allow the students time during the school day to speak with teachers, complete assignments, or go in for extra help that, as of now, they would have to stay after school for.

“Rather than going to the same classes the same time each day, students will get more variety, providing a college atmosphere and more independence for the students,” said Longo.

The “flexible rotating drop” system would also benefit teachers, allowing them more time with their students. At the beginning and end of each forty-two minute period, the students lose valuable time packing and unpacking the materials for class, according to Longo.

With alternative scheduling, the students would not lose time.

“I’ve never worked with alternative scheduling before, so I haven’t had any experience with it,” said

math teacher Erica Phifer. “But I think it will be beneficial in the sense that the students will have a variety in their class schedule [and] I’m definitely willing to give it a try.”

Students seem enthusiastic about the prospect of this type of scheduling for the approaching years.

“I think different scheduling would be a good idea,” said sophomore Jaclyn Shoop. “With a longer lunch period, we would have more time to talk to teachers about our classes, instead of being forced to stay later in the afternoon.”

This change in scheduling was originally petitioned to four members of the Board in 2005, but the beginning of construction pushed this change off, according to Longo. Even though the halt in construction stalled the project longer than expected, now that the school is being worked on once more Longo hopes to get the alteration of scheduling underway again.

“Hopefully, if the Board approves it, we will have this type of scheduling in place as early as September 2008,” said Longo.

BOARD OF EDUCATION NEWS

Freshmen class set to move to high school building Alinoel Navia ‘09

Among many physical changes to the school, the move of the freshmen class from the junior high school building to the senior high school building will be one immediate result of the resumed construction project.

Physically, the high school would become a typical four-year high school building, leaving a seventh and eighth grade middle school.

The original construction plan was to be completed by the fall of 2005. Yet, the plan was not completed successfully.

Now, the official plan will be explained through “professional development day that identifies middle school and the best teaching ideas and practices,” which the administration “would like to explore and possibly implement,” according to junior high principal David Montgomery. He explained that the “2007-08 school year will be used to explore these ideas, make decisions, and begin the process of implementing the practices we choose,” including parents in the exploration process.

Presently, the progress of the construction is currently “focusing on Phase II,” which “will be finished by the start of the next school year,” according to senior high school principal Barbara Longo. However, “The third phase of construction will not be completed by September,” Montgomery said.

“From the junior high standpoint, sending the ninth grade to the high school would free the junior high to

become the middle school I have been looking forward to,” he said.

He believes that moving the ninth grade to the high school will be very positive and lead to the development of a “middle school philosophy.”

Longo agrees with Montgomery, with a positive outlook on the new transition. “Teachers will have more time in their classrooms and won’t have to teach in several rooms,” she said.

“The science labs will be state of the art and the new gym and weight room will be equipped with new up-to-date machines.”

Another change set to begin with the construction is block scheduling.

“We are presently investigating an alternative schedule,” Longo said. “We did discuss it with the curriculum committee of the Board, but [they are] not ready to make a recommendation at this time,” she added.

Students’ opinions on this change vary. Regarding the scheduling, sophomore Zach Rothkopf said, “I am in favor of block scheduling so I don’t have to take every class every day, and we’ll get longer lunches.”

As for the construction, he finds it “cool that the freshmen are moving down” and jokingly said he wanted to “pick on the ninth graders.”

“I just think there will be too many kids in the school contributing to the population,” he added.

Sophomore Shannon Curry agreed with Rothkopf. “I think the hallways will be too crowded, and they’re going to have to create extensive lunch periods

at weird times like first period.”

She doubts that bringing the new class down to the high school this coming fall will actually occur. “At the rate that the construction is going at, nothing will get done in time,” she said. “I mean, we were supposed to be the first [class],”

she added, in reference to the original timetable.

Although the school principals are looking forward to the change and believe they will produce positive results, the school-year experience for both faculty and students will surely change.

FUNDRAISER

Hypnotist puts audience to sleep Clibby Broderick ‘07

Skylr is no stranger to the West Essex spotlight, and although his hypnosis show usually leaves the audience in a captivated trance of amazement, many students were “disappointed” by Skylr’s act this year, according to sophomore Jaclyn Sayers.

Sayers, who was left stunned after last year’s show, thought that this year “seemed to be a lot of little side acts, rather than main [acts].” Sayers admits to having been shocked as Skylr concluded the show; yet, her feelings of shock were not similar to those she had experienced the previous year.

“Either my expectations were too high, or he just wasn’t as good as I remembered,” she said. Senior Becky McClain agreed and added that her first experience was the best, and that “each year gets a shorter and more disappointing.”

McClain, who has seen Skylr live in action for the past five consecutive years, would like to see more singing and dancing by the participants, rather than Skylr “standing on stage talking

about himself.”

However, despite her disapproval of the show, she would rather go and “laugh a little than have to hear what [she] missed.” Interestingly enough, the Skylr 2007 show was the greatest success to date, bringing in $5,980, however many refused to go.

“It’s the same thing every year,” said senior Steve Monin. Monin, who has never attended the Skylr event but has heard each year from his peers the same stories and the same acts.

“I really don’t feel like I’m missing out on anything that great,” Monin added. And Senior Jason Mariscal agreed.

Having seen Skylr once, two years ago, Mariscal had “other things to do” this year. Although he found his first viewing experience to be “hilarious,” Mariscal heard that this show was not all that great.

“I am not so sure that if I were able to attend this year’s hypnosis show, that I would have gone,” according to Mariscal. “If it isn’t your first time seeing it, it’s just a waste of time,” he added.

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2004

news

CONSTRUCTION

Construction eliminates more senior spots Gena Wolfson ‘07

Seniors piled into the main office on Wednesday, March 14 th after the distribution of spots in the senior parking lot. Students were not there to pick up their stickers for their cars, but rather to complain about the flaws in the new system used to distribute spots.

They were required to fill out forms stating with whom they carpool and which semester they had parking. The information they gave, however, was not taken into account. The number of tardies and absences over the course of the school year determined who received the spots.

“As a result, twins received two parking spots and only have one car,” said senior Meaghan White.

Despite the original flaws in the system, spots have been reassigned to try to accommodate other students in need of spots.

“Some people who received parking agreed to carpool [and] gave their spots to other students,” said Vice Principal James Catalano. “They understood the situation, and it was greatly appreciated.”

Senior Allison Candido was one of a six person carpool, and five people of the carpool received spots. As a result she gave up her

spot since it “didn’t make sense to keep all of them.”

However, there are still some who would benefit from having a spot but did not receive one.

“The difficulty is no matter what you do, under a lottery or any other condition, there are so many people

awaited continuation of construction has complicated the parking problem.

The original 126 spots were cut down to 82 as trailers, dumpsters, and other pieces of equipment necessary for construction took over the back end of the parking lot.

“Combine the lack of spots with seniors who park anyway and juniors who think it’s okay to park,” said Catalano. “It creates a major issue for Starting March 27th, the administration threatened to us.” tow cars illegally parked. Many students had driven to Steps have school without stickers prior to that day, which caused been taken to disruption and dispute over the new parking situation. prevent illegal -photo by Gena Wolfson parking. in need that there aren’t going to Notes placed on every car in the be enough spots available,” said parking lot on Monday, March 26th Catalano. warned students that cars would be There are over 250 students in the towed starting the next day. grade, and only a limited number of “[Parking] is the nightmare I face spots. here,” said Catalano. “All my “Parking has been an issue going other experiences with the stuway back,” said senior class advi- dents, faculty, and other members sor and alumnus Christopher of the administration have been exBenacquista. tremely positive.”

This year, however, the long Still, Catalano and Principal Bar-

bara Longo are attempting to free up more spots by talking to the construction company.

“Hopefully the administration and the senior class can come up with a reasonable solution for everyone,” said Benacquista.

But seniors are still questioning the start of construction.

“They should have waited until senior service or during the summer to start construction,” said senior Laura Umbach.

The senior class was the first grade to come into the ‘new and improved’ high school, which ended up a nightmare, according to senior Alexa Centrella. As sophomores, this class witnessed no parking, no ceilings, and the firing of the construction company, following the delayed start of school.

“The class of 2007 will never experience all [that] the renovations have to offer,” said senior Lauren Collins. “Yet, we are suffering the consequences.”

But as the days dwindle towards senior service, graduation, and moving on, “Seniors don’t want to deal with this drama anymore,” said senior Katie Crosby.

“Hopefully, this problem will be settled,” said Crosby. “I want to remember positive things when I leave West Essex, not the parking problem.”

NEW TEACHER

Chem teacher Dr. Greenberg fills McNamara’s lab coat Ryan Logan-Magnusson ‘08

Changes are finally resuming, but not all of the additions are physical; Dr. Jonathan Greenberg, who recently spent his time working in various educational fields including mentoring new teachers, now finds himself in their shoes as the newest chemistry teacher at West Essex.

Dr. Greenberg earned a Ph. D. in Agronomy from Cornell University and has since applied that degree as an editor for a major textbook company, Prentice Hall.

He has taught high school level science and was excited when he heard about the opportunity to teach at West Essex. “I saw the advertisement in The Star Ledger,” said Dr. Greenberg. “The school seemed very positive and I thought it would be a good opportunity to learn some new things,” he added.

Although Dr. Greenberg has done accomplished much in his field, he still considers teaching to be one of his favorite activities.

“It is rewarding seeing students suddenly understand something and get excited about it,” he said.

He has shown the potential to

He also has a very distinguishable hold the job much longer than his predecessor, and also the ability to characteristic; he wears a kippah effectively teach his students. “Dr. on his head. “I haven’t found the Greenberg has been awesome so far,” according to junior Joe Giordano.

“The labs that we do in class and the ones we watch on the computer are amazing,” he added.

Dr. Greenberg was fully aware of the numerous bomb scares at the school, but it did not effect his decision to come here.

“That kind of interruption is annoying and disruptive,” he said, “but I haven’t felt unsafe or that [anyone in] my classes is inter- Dr. Jonathan Greenberg, who received a Ph. D ested in doing that in Agronomy from Cornell, began teaching at kind of thing. I find West Essex in February. He replaced Andrea McNamara, who had taught here for several for the most part years.

-photo by Ryan Logan-Magnusson that the students have been eager to learn and polite, and the teachers fact that I wear a kippah to be a and administrators have been very distraction, and it shouldn’t be,” he helpful, as well.” said. “Learning to work with

people who have different backgrounds and values is one of the most important things that students can learn in school,” he added.

Dr. Greenberg is teaching his students valuable lessons not only in education, but also in life. He is off to a “great start” according to his students, and they anticipate that it will only get better from here.

MAXMAN PLACES 3RD AT FBLA COMPETITION

Sophomore Andy Maxman placed 3rd in New Jersey for Introduction to Business Communication at the Future Business Leaders of America competition on March 13th and 14th, in Edison NJ. Maxman’s high finish enables him to compete at the national level in Chicago.

“It was a very competitive test and I am proud to have scored so high and have the chance to compete nationally,” Maxman said.

“I cannot wait to see the competition ahead of me in the near future,” The national competition will be held in Chicago, IL this spring, for the students who placed top in their states.

In this section: WE Laugh Cartoon.............5 Senior Enlists....................6 Applause & Flaws..............6 WE LAUGH

- drawn by Jen Silverstein, ‘08 STAFF EDITORIAL

Students need to show support for school spirit School pride plays a contributing role in maintaining and improving all aspects of student life.

Doing well and being motivated in a school environment give students a sense of pride and accountability. School events such as sporting events, pep rallies, and other class activities give students a sense of accomplishment and pride. School pride connects students with one another and with the school.

Students here, however, lack this sense of accomplishment. “Going to the games during football season is the only time that all of us are together outside of school,” said senior Brittany Burlazzi. With the start of construction, seniors have realized that they never experienced the full high school experience.

Other schools in our area differ greatly from our school.

Parsippany Hills High School has 48 active clubs ranging from the Academic Decathlon to the Ski Club, in which most of the student body participates. James Caldwell High School has 35 active clubs and is in the top 50 public schools of New Jersey, while Hanover Park High School is in the top 75.

“I would like to have helped with our homecoming

dance, if we had one,” said senior Alexa Centrella.

Parsippany and Parsippany Hills both have homecoming dances in the beginning of the year to bring the classes together formally outside of school. Both schools also have senior events such as dinners, dances, and trips to the shore and amusement parks all year long.

Perhaps West Essex should have concentrated on activities such as pep rallies, class activities, and promoting other school events to distract the students from the eyesore construction and parking lot headaches.

School spirit means many things. Students can contribute to the school by showing loyalty to all sport functions, whether it be football or fencing. Big games like football should have mascots to inspire school spirit and excitement. Hanover Park had two hornet mascots at the county game; on the other hand, West Essex had no knight in shining armor.

“Students should go to the games and wear the school colors,” said business teacher Andrea Mondadori. “Don’t be afraid to support your school, even if they lose,” she added. All students should try to participate in school activities, and keep in mind

that West Essex has more than just athletics. Support the drama club, band, debate team, or even run for student council. Look for activities to take part in.

All students can contribute to the school’s yearbook or newspaper by writing or taking photographs.

Encourage others who show their school spirit.“ I hope [it] changes by the time I’m a senior, that our student council [organizes] more activities for us to get through our senior year together,” said sophomore Gabriella Demassi.

In addition to having spirit for one’s own school, having respect for other schools is also important, as they will respect West Essex for respecting them.

Each student should remember that school life is comparable to life in the real world.

All students should support the school and do their best to keep their scholastic and activity standards as high as possible. Show courtesy to teachers and others, and always exhibit sportsmanship by being fair, courteous, generous, and gracious in both victory and defeat.

--Dina Costanza ‘07

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opinion

STAFF EDITORIAL

Childhood dream comes true for enlisted senior America is at war with terrorists who threaten America’s freedom and way of life. Since September 11, 2001 America has been fighting terrorists in Afghanistan and Iraq in order to ensure that a 9/11 disaster can never happen again. As a result, I have decided to take part in the fight.

During the summer, I got a call from the recruitment station in Bloomfield inviting me to speak to recruiters. After talking to several of the recruiters in the Marines, the Air Force, and the Navy, I decided the Navy would be best for me.

The Navy seemed more appealing to me: there’s a shorter boot camp, and I would get to work on a giant battleship. It is also much bigger then the Air Force, with more planes than one would think.

After making my decision, I went to take the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery, or the ASVAB which is the military en-

As a child, senior Michael McConnell dreamt of serving in the military. After speaking to several different recruiters, Mc Connell will go to Navy boot camp July 30th. (photos courtesy of Jen Silverstein and Navy.com)

trance exam. I qualified for an Operation Specialist (OS), and will be able to deal with navigation. It sounded better than the other jobs I was offered, such as a submarine

Does it bother you that... ... by Daniel Anthony Coplon, ‘07 Does it bother you that nothing bothers you anymore? I mean, besides the fact that some seniors lost parking, teachers are (allegedly) having sex with students, and the bomb scares continue, nothing really bothers me anymore.

At this point in the year, it is pretty safe to say that “senioritis” has infected most, if not all of the senior class. Early symptoms of the disease – lethargy, lack of focus, difficulty making decisions – appeared in the fall for some seniors. As spring rolls around, the average senior may have completely succumbed.

Senioritis is a unique “disease” because it attacks high-achieving, average, and struggling students alike. Most college-bound seniors have turned in their applications and received their acceptance letters. Many of them understandably feel entitled to a little downtime. The small percentage of seniors who aren’t header for higher learning may not have figured out what they want to do after graduation, but they are pretty sure that it won’t require geometry or Shakespeare.

Be not mistaken that contracting senioritis has its perks. I, for one, am in the most carefree state-of-mind since elementary school. I am into a number of colleges, my backpack will often stay in my car until the following school day, and the parentals are starting to ease-up big time.

The sun is beginning to set for my fellow seniors and me, and the spreading epidemic of senioritis serves to remind us all of this reality.

APPLAUSE AND FLAWS Applause: * To spring! * To the resumption of construction * To seniors who got into college! * To those seniors who are still working hard * To the cast and crew of “Bye Bye Birdie” for three great sold out shows * To Rachel Berman, Alexa Notte, and Kaitlin Chicola for their extra help * To Melissa Weston, honorable mention in Seton Hall University’s essay contest Flaws: * To the Ivy League and other colleges who waitlisted or denied WE’s best * To the people who waited until the last minute to hand in ads for yearbook * To the messy students who don’t pick up after themselves * To seniors who decided to stop working hard * To not enough passing time between classes * To vending machines charging a service fee -compiled by the Wire staff

yeoman. And finally, I leave for boot camp July 30 th.

The Navy would also help me go somewhere with my life. Through the experience and tuition provided by the Navy, I can be able to make something of myself. As of yet, I have no idea what I want to do, and serving in the Navy will give me more time to decide what I want.

I have no doubt in my mind that

this is what I want to do. I have always wanted to be in the military since I was a little kid and the only question I had was which branch.

Even though boot camp will be tough, in the end it will be worth it.

I want to help my country, and I believe what America is doing is right in Iraq. Someone needs to put a stop to the dictators of the world who slaughter their own people. What makes people think that these dictators would never harm the United States if they are so easily willing to slaughter mass amounts of their own people?

I have always had a strong respect for the things the military has done to help better the world that we live in. I want to be a part of it. I want to be part of the great things the American military has done to defend freedom throughout the world.

--Michael McConnell ‘07

The Official Student Newspaper of West Essex High School A Columbia Scholastic Press Association Silver Crown, Gold Medalist Paper GSSPA First Place New Jersey Distinguished Journalism Award 65 West Greenbrook Road, North Caldwell, New Jersey 07006 (973) 228-1200 ext. 258 2006-2007 STAFF:

Editors-in-Chief Sandra Lucero, ‘07 Katie Rosenberg, ‘07 News Editors Kristin Ricigliano, ‘07 Jared Prince, ‘07 Opinion Editor Helen Wang, '07 Feature Editor Sandra Lucero, '07 Sports Editor Katie Rosenberg, ‘07 Advisor Daryl Corcoran

Staff Writers Jamie Blaustein, ‘07 Mark Cassera, ‘07 Jenna Cirangle, ‘07 Katie Clavin, ‘07 Matt Cohn, ‘08 Jenel Conde, ‘09 Evan Elberg, ‘09 Dan Coplon, ‘07 Dina Costanza, ‘07 Tom Grossi, ‘07 Victoria Gualtieri, ‘09 Elliot Kartus, ‘09 Steve Kinslow, ‘09 Jeremy Lim, ‘08 Ryan Logan, ‘08 Andrew Maxman, ‘09 Michael McConnell, ‘07 Alinoel Navia, ‘09 Cassie Neugold, ‘09 Amanda Nichols, ‘08 Samira Paydar, ‘09 Michael Shanker, ‘07 John Veniero, ‘07 Jack Vidovich, ‘08 Gena Wolfson, ‘07

Wire Editorial Policy The national award winning Wessex Wire is published with supplemental updates to inform, educate, and entertain the student body, faculty, and community. Unsigned editorials are the consensus opinion of the editorial board and do not always reflect the views of the advisor, 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 free 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.

In this section: Religion In this two issue: teens......................8 Amongaffects the Mugs............................24 Senioritis for Class ofpoem................27 07......................10 Coach Albanese’s Sophomore recounts FBLA trip...........11 Coach Cosse’s pregnancy.............22

West Essex students are called to help by war veteran

by Michael Shanker ‘07

To rally support for the war in Iraq, custodian and decorated war veteran, Bill Van Eck, who served in a heavy artillery unit in Vietnam from 1965 to 1971, is helping soldiers from his former battalion by collecting sports equipment to be sent to them.

Typically, one year was the tour of duty for heavy artillery units in the Vietnam War. Van Eck’s unit spent the longest time in the war for a heavy artillery unit. This same unit, the 2nd battalion of the 32nd field artillery, landed first on the beaches of Normandy, France during World War II. Two decades later it was sent to Vietnam. After that war ended, the unit was retired until the early 1990s when it was called up for Desert Storm.

Now, in 2007, the unit has once

again been reinstated for the war in Iraq.

Van Eck connected with members of the same division in Iraq at a reunion involving soldiers in the brigade from battles in World War II, Vietnam, and Iraq. He sympathizes with the soldiers in Iraq and finds the country’s lack of support similar to that during the Vietnam War. “Even if you don’t support the war, you always have to support the troops,” said Van Eck. “I know how it feels to be risking my life every day and have no support back home. You have to realize that Americans are dying over there.”

Along with veterans of his battalion, he became a part of the “Proud Americans.” To counter the lack of support for the troops, Van Eck looked for a way to reach out to show his appreciation and sympathy.

BYE BYE BIRDIE

by Amanda Nichols ‘08

Masquers of West Essex presented Bye Bye Birdie on March 22, 23, and 24.

The show follows the owner of a music agency, Albert Peterson (David Grau, junior) and his secretary/girlfriend, Rose Alvarez (Kira Monin, freshman) as they attempt to send Conrad Birdie (Artie Scarano, senior), Peterson’s client, into the army as “the hottest soldier since Joan of Arc.” In order to make Conrad’s departure memorable, they

choose a random member of his fan club, Kim McAfee (Daniella Anton, junior), to award with “one last kiss” on national television before he goes into the army. The plan goes south when Alvarez, frustrated with Peterson’s unwillingness to settle down, and Hugo Peabody (Joe Giordano, junior), Kim’s jealous boyfriend come up with a plan to ruin Conrad and Kim’s TV appearance. Bye Bye Birdie was a fun musical with lots of fast music, dancing, and lovable characters. Congratulations to the cast, crew, and pit of Bye Bye Birdie.

He decided to collect sports equipment “to give them something to do on their down time in Iraq. Hopefully, they will be able to organize intramural leagues.”

Van Eck’s message is being heard all throughout West Essex Proud Americans ready for a nighs work. From left and its surround- to right Lt Miller, SP 4 Van Eck and PFC Perez.

-photo courtesy of proudamericans.com (Lenny Salvo) ing communities.

“I sincerely hope welcome, especially volleyballs, footyou can find it in your heart to help balls, softballs, mitts, horseshoes, our brave troops regardless of your ping pong paddles, and frisbees. The political views of the war,” said Neil Key Club, Character Club and NaNederfield, Van Eck’s cousin. tional Honor Society are organizing “They answered their call to duty the collection. All donated items can and now it’s our turn to help them.” be brought to the main office or room All types of sports equipment are 38.

(top right) Kira Monin, as Rose Alvarez, as she rebelled and called herself “Spanish Rose.” (bottom right) The teen chorus dance and sung as Artie Scarano stars as Conrad Birdie. (center) Nick Vidovich, as Kim McAfee(Anton)’s dad, attempted to interrupt the “last kiss” between his daughter and Conrad (Scarano). (bottom left) Joe Giordano, as Anton’s jealous boyfriend, as he punched Conrad Birdie.

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2004

RELIGION

Two West Essex students with different religions Roth is a member of United Synagogue Youth (USY), an international Jewish youth organization, and is currently the Vice President of the Agudath Israel Due to federal laws, there is no religion within the chapter. She also serves on the Membership/Outpublic school system. Outside of school however, reach Committee in her region and as a Zone Head students such as senior Allison Candido and junior (overseeing about 10 Synagogues in the area.)

Sarah Roth are deeply involved in their religious com“We do service projects, raise money for various munities. charities, heighten awareness of issues and programs Candido is Catholic and as a senior she is one of in Israel, discuss religion, learn more about religious the leaders of the Notre Dame Youth Group in North practices, and develop friendships,” added Roth.

Caldwell.

“We have monthly regional dances and a regional “We meet every Sunday, but it is not really all that convention every few months,” said Roth, whose rereligious,” said Candido. “It is more of a social circle gion is Hagalil which includes northern and central where we talk about our lives, pray, and occasionNew Jersey. ally have fundraisers for things like Hurricane Like the Notre Dame Church youth group, USY Katrina,” she added. also offers summer service programs.

Also, every year about 20 kids from our parish go Both girls feel that their decision to become active to a work camp for a week in the summer, which is in their religious communities had a lot to do with maklike Habitat for Humanity but on location, according ing new friends. to Candido.

As a freshman, Candido decided to sign up for So far Candido’s youth group has gone to work Antioch, a weekend religious retreat because at the camps in Tennessee, Indiana, and West Virginia. time she viewed it as just “something new to try out.”

“I went on the weekend, and I made so many new friends and was given such a new perspective on life that it made me want to get involved in the youth group and other activities for teens in our parish,” she added.

Her youth group is composed of about -photo courtesy of www.notredameparish.com half West Essex Notre Dame Church in North Caldwell is the home to the youth group and half James

by Amanda Nichols ‘08

that Candido attends every Sunday.

Caldwell High School students, so Candido believes she has made friends with people she may not have otherwise.

“If I see one of my friends from youth group, I will give them a hug, and I find it easier to confide -photo by Jen Silverstein in them because Senior Allison Candido, who we form such practices Catholicism, is one close bonds at of the students at West youth group.”

Essex that is involved in her Roth can’t parish. name one defining moment she decided to become so actively involved, but meeting new people was definitely part of it.

“The synagogue and my friends motivated me [to become more active],” said Roth, “I have friends that are more religious than I am, and I strive to be more like them and to take on more religious responsibilities.”

Candido thinks that her religion plays a part in her life at school, but she doesn’t think that it interferes with it.

“I would consider myself a pretty religious person, or at least I am very involved in my church, but I don’t think it affects my ability to interact with people of other religions at all,” said Candido.

Sarah Roth on the other hand, feels that it’s sometimes difficult to separate her life at school from her life at temple.

Roth often misses school events because many of them occur on Fridays and Saturdays during the Sabbath, according to Roth.

Roth will not be able to attend prom because it falls on a Friday night. Physics Day at Six Flags Great

(continued on next page) EXTRACURRICULARS

Chess and

C R A B B L E 3

by Helen Wang ‘07

Friendly competition in a friendly environment is what the new Chess and Scrabble club is all about.

The Chess and Scrabble Club is a new after school activity at West Essex. It is comprised of several students who find the club “a great way to hang out after school,” according to junior Igor Ponomarev.

Advisor and science teacher, John Schneider started the club as an alternative to “those video games, where everything is linear and predictable.”

Playing Scrabble and chess teaches students to “think outside the box,” said Schneider, who added that students “will be able

1

1

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to look at a situation and figure out several ways to solve the problem.”

As a c h i l d , Schneider played everything from board games, jigs a w puzzles, w o r d puzzles, to the classic game of Boggle.

“There are a lot of activities available to students,” said Schneider, “but there was a need for a place where

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club provides friendly environment

students could get together and play the simpler and traditional games.”

Junior Jenny Wang originally joined the club to acc o m pany her friend, but after her first game of Scrabble, s h e found out that playing Scrabble is “an interesting way to hang out with some kids from school.”

Sophomore Kevin Biglin attended

a meeting of Chess and Scrabble Club when a Scrabble game in class renewed his interest in the game.

“I haven’t played the game in a while,” said Biglin, “so after playing Scrabble after finishing a lab in class, I decided to come play it after school.”

Halfway through his game of Scrabble, his friend sophomore E r i c k Va l d e z a d m i t t e d t h a t Scrabble is “actually fun.”

Wang enjoys playing Scrabble because she feels that its “challenging” since players deal with seven different letters randomly chosen.

She also enjoys the small size that Chess and Scrabble Club has, because that way “everyone can get involved.”

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wessex - april 2007 wessexwire wire-january 2004 RELIGION

have similar reasons for their active participation Adventure in the same day as USY’s regional Spring Convention, and because she is running for office she cannot miss any part of the convention.

When it comes to class material though, Candido has a harder time making her religion match science.

“I try to keep them as two separate things, but I don’t fully believe in evolution,” said Candido, “[Although] religion has been modernized, I think that God or some kind of greater being had to have had a part in it.

“There is no way that our bodies could have evolved this perfectly, everything works together and everything has a function, its unrealistic to think that it just happened over time, its too complex,’” Candido added.

When it comes school, Roth tries to find ways to believe in both science and religion.

“Learning about contraception in

Junior Sarah Roth is one of the teens that is involved with a USY chapter at Agudath Israel.

-photo by Jen Silverstein

health class or evolution in biology has never really bothered me,” said Roth.

“I grew up in a home that basically taught both, so I’m used to them.

“In terms of creation vs. evolution, I think I have somehow come up with a way to deal with both,” said Roth. “I think it’s just the way you think about it,” she added.

Roth and Candido also have to deal with balancing their religions and school in history class.

“When we study the Reformation and everything is focused on why Catholicism is really bad, I just keep in mind how much it has changed since then,” said Candido.

“The big difference is that back then the Church was such a political group and it had political motives, which is not true today to the extent that it was then,” Candido added.

Roth finds connections to history through her family.

“My grandfather is a Holocaust survivor, so I have even more of a personal connection to that event,” said Roth, named after both of her grandfathers who perished in the Holocaust.

For the most part everyone is accepting of both of the girls’ religions, though they have had to deal with some problems.

“On the Tuesday after Antioch everyone that is on [the Antioch] team wore their sweatshirts to school,” said Candido. “A Jewish girl passed a comment when we were all wearing them that we were trying to ‘impose our religion’ on her, which was a ridiculous statement because wearing a sweatshirt has nothing to do with my trying to convert her.”

Though Roth has not had to deal with

-photo courtesy of www.agudath.org Congregation Agudath Israel, before construction started, is the location of Roth’s USY meetings.

intolerance, she definitely hears of it.

“While no one has ever overtly discriminated [against] me on the basis of my religion, I have a lot of friends that have experienced religious discrimination,” said Roth.

“When Mel Gibson’s The Passion of the Christ came out, I heard stories of people, within our school, even, throwing money at Jewish kids [which is from a scene in the movie],” according to Roth.

The two agree that their religious communities provide a support system like no other.

“If one person in the group is having a problem, there are at least 20 friends who are immediately there to support and listen to them without judgment,” said Candido. “I think the best example of this was [October 11th]…the day that James Caldwell junior Jamie Bliss died at football practice.”

Bliss’s older brother, Dan, had been part of Antioch in previous years.

“That night there were about 20 of us, who included some of Jamie’s and Dan’s closest friends, and for about two

hours we just sat around the altar in the church comforting each other and sharing stories about Jamie,” added Candido.

Though Roth has not needed her youth group to deal with personal tragedy, she finds comfort in simply having people who share her interests.

“I listen to Jewish and Israeli music, and my friends in USY share that love with me,” said Roth. “Also, I have other USY friends in public schools and we can discuss fasting during school, etc.”

Roth sees her school friends every day, but their conversations are typically about what happens in school. Her USY friends, however, are “involved in a life outside of school.”

Both girls also find their religions to be helpful in their every day life.

“Our Antioch weekend, which happens twice a year, is a chance for all of us to get together, share experiences, and the way that we view God,” said Candido. “The lessons I have learned through my involvement with my church have made me a better person.”

TRIBECA FILM FESTIVAL ATTRACTS VISITORS TO NEW YORK CITY

by Dan Spada ‘09

This spring marks the fifth anniversary of the Tribeca Film Festival, founded by Robert De Niro, Jane Rosenthal, and Craig Hatkoff, to economically aid and culturally revitalize Lower Manhattan through an “annual celebration of film, music, and culture,” after the attacks on the World Trade Center.

The festival’s mission is to assist filmmakers to reach the broadest possible audience, enable the international film community and the general public to experience the power of film, and promote New York City as a major filmmaking center. The festival has attracted over one and a half million attendees and created more than $325 million in economic activity for New York City in these first five years.

On March 12th, the Tribeca Film Festival announced the line-up for its “World Narrative” and “World Documentary” feature film competitions, as

well as its selections in the “Spotlight” category. From April 25 through May 6, the Tribeca Film Festival will present a total of 159 feature films and 85 shorts, selected from 4,550 film submissions.

These selections include 75 world premieres, five international premieres, 30 North American premieres, 18 U.S. premieres and 21 New York City premieres, with films from 41 countries and territories including Armenia, Bosnia & Herzegovina, Chile, Croatia, Cuba, France, Hong Kong, India, Iran, Iraq, Israel, Lebanon, Panama, Serbia, South Korea, and Tunisia.

“Thefestival,whileyoung,continuestoattractfilmsexpressingcompellingviewsfrom filmmakers from around the globe and around the corner,” according to Rosenthal.

“This year’s festival presents diverse, original, and, most of all, good storytelling which will encourage dialogue, entertain, and celebratefilmmaking.”

The newly added “Encounters” section

presents films from both up-and-coming and established filmmakers. The directorial debuts of films by Mary Stuart Masterson, Diego Luna and Jon Poll will be included in this section.

“The ‘Encounters’ section features some established talents demonstrating their skills outside of the areas for which they are known,” said Rosenthal. “Overall, the films inthissection,andin‘Midnight,’presentfresh new perspectives from a diverse group of filmmakers,” she added.

On March 15th, the festival announced its “Discovery,” “Showcase,” and “Family” selections. The “Discovery” section draws attention to the work of up-andcoming narrative and documentary directors, the “Showcase” selections consist of a number of exceptional films that have previously earned praise at other film festivals around the world, and the “Family” film festival presents films for all ages.

The “Restored/Rediscovered” section offers films that have not had much of a chance to be seen in the U.S. “This year

we’re bringing works from the past to our audiences in ways that make them seem new again,” according to Festival Executive Director Peter Scarlet.

Scarlet plans to do this in two ways: “by presenting some magnificent new restorations from around the world of key films which have either disappeared from view in this country, or were never properly exhibited here,” and by “showing the work of two artists who couldn’t be more different - except that they’ve taken material from the past and re-worked it.”

“We are excited to present these acclaimed films to New Yorkers. Finally, our family film festival continues to be the most exciting part of our festival for kids from all over New York, and we’re hopeful that more than a few of them will become the film buffs of tomorrow.”

For more information on everything about the festival, from purchasing tickets to tips on getting around the city and choosing films, visit www.tribecafilmfestival.org or call 866.941.FEST.

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25 feature

SENIORS

Senioritis contagious in the class of 2007

by Matt Cohn ‘08

As seniors embark on their final few weeks of their high school careers, a “major disease” many like to call “senioritis,” is starting to kick in.

Senioritis is not just something that affects students of West Essex; it affects seniors across the nation, but many seniors here are feeling the effects.

Senior Jared Davidson, who will be leaving at the end of May on senior service, is definitely affected by senioritis, adding that he doesn’t have the work ethic he had previously.

“Now that I am in college I don’t really have the same desire to get all of my work done,” said Davidson. “I have been slacking off ever since I got in.”

For other seniors however, senioritis kicked in early.

“I’ve had senioritis since seventh grade,” said senior Malcolm Bertram. “It hasn’t really affected me this year because it has been ongoing since junior high.”

Apparently, there are more important things seniors want to do than work. Many seniors also feel that they have better things to do than put their time and effort into

school.

“Why would I do work when I could just silly string [senior] Ted Abbot’s car?” said senior Max Custer.

With only a few weeks left until their high school careers are officially over, some seniors feel there are other things to do.

“I know this is the last time my whole grade will be together,” said Davidson. “After school instead of doing work I would rather hang out with my best friends that I have been going to school with for my whole life and enjoy some of the last times I am going to get to have with them before college” Some seniors, including Teresa Spada, have known for months where they plan to go to college, and feel so no need to complete high school work.

“Because I have known for so long where I am going to college its hard to sit and do high school work,” said Spada. “I’ve lost all of my motivation to try my best and study every night.”

Instead of doing work during study hall everyday, seniors are just relaxing once they get to “study.”

“I used to go in to study everyday and work from bell to bell,” said senior Naume Trajkoski.

“ N o w when I get to study, I just play chess with my friend Kevin Hill all period, e v e n though he’s better then me. I try my best to get better, when really I should be Seniors (from left to right) Rocco Donitello, Alexa d o i n g Centrella, Rachel Berman, and Lucia Avraamides slack -photo by Matt Cohn s c h o o l off during school hours. work.”

Many seniors are not even trying problems. to fight the bug known as senioritis, “I know that if I start doing poorly knowing it is almost impossible to and my grades drop, a college can defeat, and there is still no vaccine rescind my acceptance,” Romandetto to prevent it, but there are some se- said. “I had to keep my grades up niors however who have kept up for the last couple of weeks to make with their work habits. sure I still got into the college of my “We don’t really get as much choice.” work as we used to,” said senior Senior Maggie George has some Alexa Centrella. “So when we do advice for underclassmen looking to get work, it usually is kind of easy avoid the senioritis bug. To quote Joe and not very time consuming.

Dirt, she said, “Keep on keepin’ on.”

Senior Janelle Romandetto however, who has already been accepted to college, says that she knows now that if she slacks off, there could be

ENTERTAINMENT

Rejection is not always bad, winning isn’t everything

by Jenel Conde ‘09

American Idol, America’s top-rated show according to MSNBC.com, proves that winning is not everything.

“Idol contestants who lose can go on to do better things,” said sophomore Nicole Brillante.

“Jennifer Hudson proved to be more successful than any winner so far,” added Brillante.

The television show seeking the best voice in the nation has proved that losing can make you more successful in the music industry.

The show begins in January with auditions in big cities like Houston, Los Angeles, and New York. Viewers hear the males sing one night and the females another, for three weeks. After that, only twelve contestants remain and one person, either male or female, is voted off each week until the winner is found.

What is it that makes this show interesting?

Three judges, Randy Jackson, Paula Abdul, and Simon Cowell critique the singers on their performances, and Cowell’s blunt criticism makes the show a hit.

“I don’t think the show would be as good if Simon wasn’t a judge,” said Brillante.

In addition, what makes the show appealing for the viewers is the ability to vote for the winner.

Many people believe the losers of each season had tremendous talent. Chris Daughtry, a contestant voted off from season five, “is more talented than any of the winners so far,” accord-

ing to sophomore Noell Gomez.

“I think Daughtry’s music will have young people listening especially since his songs are played on the radio now,” said Gomez.

Taylor Hicks, the winner of season five, “was definitely not as good as [Chris] Daughtry,” according to sophomore Brooke Sunshine.

Even though Daughtry did not win, he went on to become the best-selling Idol contestant with his album reaching number one on the Billboard charts in its ninth week of release.

Many Idol contestants voted off have made their careers more successful than some winners. Tamyra Gray, a first season contestant, was able to showcase her singing talent by performing several songs in episodes of Boston Public.

Likewise, Mario Vasquez, who dropped out of the season four competition had success with his first single, “Gallery,” which was one of the most played records at radio stations across the country its first week out.

Still, one of the most successful Idol contestants is Jennifer Hudson. Hudson was sixth out of the final twleve contestants in season three, but came out on the top when she won both a Golden Globe and an Oscar for her role as Effie White in “Dreamgirls.”

Talented people have survived American Idol.

However, some people are tired of the show.

“It’s the sixth season of the show and it may be getting worn out. I don’t know how many more seasons they can go without losing viewers,” said sophomore Melanie Adams.

(top) Jennifer Hudson in “Dreamgirls,” which catapulted her to fame this year. (middle) Chris Daughtry, who did not win Idol, had a number one album. (bottom Judges Simon Cowell, Paula Abdul, and Randy Jackson (from left to right), offer America their criticism on each performance.

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FASHION

Spring fashion reverts back to the classics

by Jenna Cirangle ‘07

While the weather is undergoing its biggest transition from a snowy winter to a sunny spring, the clothes are also changing from bulky winter coats to light spring fashion.

Fashion is continually changing, but spring’s traditional trends have always been dresses, sandals, and bright colors. This spring, designers have taken traditional trends and made them look more feminine.

Since dresses are no longer worn just for fancy occasions, dresses are seen at anytime of the day. The 1920’s and the 1950’s have influenced the styles of dresses for the season.

The evening dress has been replaced with a classic “daytime dress” or a sundress with floral prints and neutral shades of white as well as gold. Metallic colors are worn during the day and night and make a bold statement. Casual short sleeve dresses are also an option in place of a sundress.

If girls aren’t wearing dresses, they are wearing Bermuda shorts in all different lengths as well as skirts.

“Bubble skirts” that have a flared out bottom are new this season. To com-

plete the outfit, light layers and girly blouses made of lace, eyelet patterns, and ruffles are worn on top. The lengths of skirts vary, however, but they all have a light and girly appeal.

The “clean-cut” look will never disappear, and spring is the time to make the “clean-cut” look bold with color.

Jackets worn alone as tops are new for the springtime since the weather is so warm. The trapeze jacket is a trend this season and can be worn

with pleated pants, capris, and gauchos.

As for footwear, typical sandals, espadrilles, flats, and wedges are shoes for the girls while guys just stick to flip flops.

The versatility is one of the best aspects of spring clothes, since all spring styles can also be worn well into summer. The weather in NJ stays consistently warm from the middle of spring until the middle of September,

so most of the same outfits can be repeated throughout the spring and summer months.

Still, people will continue to wear clothes that reflect their personality, even though new trends have been released at the beginning of the season. Trends come not only from the runway but from observation of other people’s style. Fashion changes constantly, but individuals change only on their own timetable.

-photo courtesy of www.neimanmarcus.com

PERSONAL ACCOUNT

Students learn lessons outside the classroom on FBLA trip I didn’t expect the FBLA field trip to consist of more than a boring test and a stiff dance, but I had no clue that I would learn valuable lessons, form great friendships, and witness unforgettable events. We arrived at The Palace, checked in, and received our complimentary FBLA key chains. After listening to three hours worth of speeches filled with ridiculously corny knock-knock jokes and goofy acoustic guitar playing, we left The Palace, completely unaware of the absolute intellectual mayhem that was about to Take Place.

While waiting for a bus to the Expo Center for lunch, Livingston’s Rubik’s Cube extraordinaire Daniel Wang approached West Essex’s own Neel Vakharia. Within about a minute, one of history’s most intense Rubik’s Cube duels, between two of New Jersey’s finest, began. As the crowd roared, Wang attacked his cube with extreme speed and precision, finishing his cube faster than James Moy could say, “Apple iBook Pro.” Wang was just in a different league. After winning, however, Wang gracefully accepted his applause and agreed to capitalize on a photo op with Vakharia. From this rare showdown with Daniel Wang we learned our first lesson, How to Win with Class.

The next lesson learned came from another unusual place, Harold’s Deli. The West Essex FBLA newcomers had heard rumors of the mammoth servings at Harold’s, but no one truly anticipated the magnitude of the portions. The experienced FBLA members informed the rookies, however, and many kids paired up to share

servings. Kids split pancakes that, according to Elliot Kartus, had “a radius of about a mile.”

Everyone shared their meals except for junior Josh “the Beast” Sigler, who pounded down a ham, egg, and cheese sandwich, and the Insatiable Chris Jung, also a junior, who inhaled his colossal 32 ounce milkshake, with extra whipped cream. Through our experience with the epic proportions of Harold’s Delicatessen, we, with the exception of senior J a r e d

Davidson, who stubbornly decided not to share his milkshake and didn’t finish learned the importance of Sharing.

Both the third and fourth lessons came from Harold’s as well, during our second trip to the eatery. After experiencing a meal with a waitress who tried to charge us double the amount of money that we owed, though she couldn’t slip anything by the some of the FBLA geniuses,

like Jason Plawner, we decided to forgive the waitress and still extend our generosity through her tip. There was, again, one person who missed out on the lesson: while seniors J a i m e Blaustein and Plawner, juniors Matt Cohn, Justin Lisa, Jung, and Sigler, and Sophomore Evan Elberg and I gave extra money for the tip, Jared Davidson asked for his two dollars and eighty cents back. From this experience, we learned our next two lessons, Forgiveness and Generosity.

From the extravagant Motownthemed dance, we learned our last lesson. At the beginning of the trip, the boys of our West Essex chapter of FBLA had set firm goals meeting new girls.

Throughout the early part of the dance, however, we were highly unsuccessful.

Thank stud Jason Plawner for demonstrating to us the importance of the fifth lesson, Perseverance. Plawner was unstoppable in his efforts to meet and befriend new women, and after trying to get to know a multitude of uninteresting women, through his hard work, he found the woman of his dreams. Plawner and his exotic counterpart danced the night away.

by Andy Maxman ‘09

In this section: New event for track and field ............13 Baseball looks for repeat success....14 GIrls’ Lacrosse and Faculty-Senior Showdown Photo Finish..............................15

“Team-oriented mentality” to revive boys’ lacrosse

by Jeremy Lim ‘08

The boys’ lacrosse team knows what disappointment feels like, which is why the team is looking to contend this year, after a bitter finish in last year’s playoffs.

“The whole team felt that we could have finished much better last year,” according to senior co-captain John Veniero. “We were confident that we had the talent to really go far, but we were knocked out in the first round of the playoffs,” he added.

Senior defenseman Jason Plawner thinks that the team is definitely “more motivated” to succeed, having gone to the state championship game two straight years before falling under .500 last season.

“We definitely underachieved last year,” according to senior midfielder Mark Cassera. “We had been competing for a state championship the previous two seasons, and it was a big let-down to go out in the first round,” Cassera added.

Junior midfielder Andrew Cross agrees and believes that the Knights fell to an opponent they should have been crushed. “We should have definitely [beaten] West Deptford.”

While Plawner believes that their goal amounts to nothing less than a state championship, Cross thinks that the team must first concentrate on taking out their main rivals.

“Above all else, we really want to

of whom have gone on to play lacrosse at the collegiate level. “[Skeels] was probably our best overall scorer,” according to junior attackman Matt La Flamme. The other graduates left the team without “a lot of experienced defenders,” Cassera added.

Despite their lack of star power, Cassera still believes the Knights can be competitive if they come together as a team and said that their lack of “singular talents,” will force Senior Rich Miller follows his team after a passing them to “work drill up on the top field. The lacrosse team will face harder as a team.” tough competitors in Seton Hall Prep and “We definitely Mendham this year.

-photo by Katie Rosenberg have a more beat Seton Hall Prep and Mendham,” ‘team-oriented’ mentality,” Cross added. according to Cross.

Still, despite the graduations, the team The team will have to attempt to topple their rivals without the strong certainly does not lack for strong leadleaders who helped carry the team last ership, according to head coach Timoyear. The team lost a bevy of tal- thy Glenn. “Our captains, John Veniero, ented seniors from last year’s gradu- Ryan McNamara, Tom Doelp, and Ted ating class, including Dan Skeels, Abbot, are all strong leaders by exAlex Hayes, and Jimmy Hammel, all ample,” he said.

“Every senior has been a very positive and motivating force for us so far,” according to junior Chris Miller.

The biggest worry for the Knights is on the defensive end, where senior Ryan McNamara is the only holdover from last year’s squad. Glenn notes that while he believes his defensive replacements can handle their assignments “physically,” they still lack experience. Glenn hopes to combat that inexperience by slowing the pace of the game.

“We’ll most likely be more of a ‘possession’ team as opposed to a fastbreak, ‘run-and-gun’ squad,” according to Glenn.

Cross notes that the team hopes to establish an identity early in the season by being a “physical, big-hitting team.”

So far, Glenn has been “very encouraged” by the team’s progress in practice.

“We did not score well in our first scrimmage, but we’ve been getting better.”

“I’ve noticed that we seem to be improving every day in practice,” according to junior Eric Miller.

After every practice the team reinforces that mentality by “breaking [each practice] with a ‘do work’ chant,” according to Plawner. “If we’re not the most talented team in the state, we hope that our hard work ethic will pay off.”

RECRUITMENT

Athletic recruitment not so simple for senior tackle

by Samira Paydar ‘09

The college recruitment process for athletes may seem simple to outsiders, but some athletes have a harder time than others.

Senior Tom Grossi, a football player, didn’t feel pressured to apply to a dozen colleges with the hope of being accepted into one, a struggle most students are forced to deal with, yet still dealt with the stress of applications.

Some student athletes “didn’t even have to fill out an application,” according to senior Jen Egan, bound to play soccer for Stonybrook. “[The college] wanted me, and that was it. I didn’t have to worry about anything,” she added.

Grossi’s experience with college recruitment and applications, however, was not as simple.

“I had to do what everyone else does [with regard to admissions],” said Grossi. The slight difference in his case was that through the football program, he was able to find out his admission decision before everyone else.

Grossi had verbally committed to Amherst in February but did not receive his official letter of acceptance until

the end of March.

The recruitment process is not an easy one, which is illustrated by the course Grossi’s college story.

“It was really my big year,” he said.

Midway through his junior year, Grossi sent a highlight tape of his performances to different schools. The schools interested in Grossi, which included Yale, Princeton, and the University of Pennsylvania, contacted his coach. Grossi then

went on “Prospect Days,” where “[college] athletes showed me around the school.”

“During my junior summer, I was at a different camp every weekend for five straight weekends,” he said.He attended several football camps, where athletes complete drills and workouts, all for college recognition.

Many schools were interested in Grossi, however, not all were assuring. “Every school will tell you the same thing,” he said.

“They say you’re able to get in, even when that might not be the case. I went from choosing between ten schools to three schools in a week.”

His long list narrowed down finally to Amherst, Colgate, and Lafayette. “[Colleges would] string me along; I kept my options open, as they got another athlete.”

The process by which this all occurs includes not only Senior Tom Grossi will continue to play athletes’ physical achievefootball at Division III Amherst College in ments, but also their acaMassachusetts.

-photo by Matt Cohn demic ability, as well.

“The Ivy Leagues recruit differently; you get a certain raw score taken from your GPA and SAT score, and you fall within a certain level,” according to Grossi.

“The level that I fell in - they only took five kids or so. If I were one level higher, Princeton would have taken me, but that was the only school that happened with,” he said.

For Penn, Grossi was “set to go for a visit but hadn’t heard anything for a while,” and at the last minute, found out they recruited a different player.

The process is not just time consuming for the coaches, as Grossi had “to do a lot of follow-up” to market himself to those coaches. “I had to do a lot of work. For the average recruit, it’s a business basically, that’s the way you have to look at it - you can’t take anything personally,” he said.

Despite having a few colleges back out on Grossi at the end, he realized that it’s smart to maintain a friendly relationship with recruiters, just in case. “I would say the say the same thing to all the schools, ‘Yeah, I’m definitely interested,’” he said, even if he might not have initially been looking to play for that college.

With college recruitment, Grossi understood that “nothing is final.”

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SOFTBALL

Softball has “young” squad but full of talent

by Mark Cassera ‘07

With a 20-8 record and state sectional championship title in the 2006 season, the girls’ softball team looks to continue its success this season with “hard work,” according to senior first baseman Dina Costanza.

“We have a young team, but we have all been working hard in the off-season by getting to the batting cages,” Costanza added, who believes that the team will have “another good season.”

She and fellow senior Brittany Burlazzi have held practices for the younger girls, which Costanza said aimed to “get them ready for the Senior pitcher Danielle Bertscha attempts a tag as senior Brittany Burlazzi tries to steal second.

program.” Burlazzi noted that the practices help the new girls “get used to the rest of the team” and began to develop their skills early.

Last year, senior pitcher Danielle Bertscha anchored the team with solid performances, along with the bats of now-graduated seniors. Having lost eight players from last season, the team must now look to “fill gaps” to restore the line up, according to head coach Andrea Mondadori.

“We have the talent on the team to go to Toms River [for the state championship],” she said.

“It’s just a matter of putting the pieces together: talent, hard work and having fun,” she added.

The younger squad is composed of five freshmen, Austin Leigh, Jackie Branco, Christina Galese, Alyssa Witte, and Candace Travis, three sophomores, Rosie Savino, Michelle Bertscha, and Katie Flynn, and two juniors, Nicole Zezza and Janine Buonomo.

The team is led by four seniors, Costanza, Burlazzi, Bertscha, and Brittany Hamker, all of whom have years of varsity experience.

The work in the off-season by all members, will prove to be invaluable to the team as they prepare for their games. “[Bertscha] has been pitching all over Florida

Burlazzi makes it to first on a base hit to right field in a practice scrimmage versus the JV team.

-photos by Katie Rosenberg

during the summer, fall, and winter weekends to improve,” Mondadori said. “Her speed has really come around, and after last year’s experience at the state level, she is anxious to pitch in a state championship game.”

TRACK & FIELD

New student and event improves track and field

by Steve Kinslow ‘09

With ice now melted, the track team is off to a running start. Pole vaulting is springing into action, and new transfer student sophomore Mamadou Niang, originally from Senegal, has shocked the whole team.

David Droz, head coach of the track team, is once again hoping for a good season for his runners and field players. The team is bigger than last year and has a surprise. They will be introduced to pole vaulting for the first time, and many are excited to watch and try.

GOLF

New coach for golf, team has high hopes for state tournament

by Evan Elberg ‘09

Typically, sports teams focus on their incoming athletes prior to preseason. The golf team’s first priority this year, however, was to find a replacement for former coach Tom Kenny.

The athletic department selected Tim Kistner, an assistant golf professional at Preakness Hills Country Club. He is an alumnus of Pennsylvania State University with a degree from their golf management school.

“Even though Mr. Kenny is no longer with us, we are glad we got a smart coach, and we are hoping for a fun year,” said sophomore Andrew Maxman, who started as a freshman last year.

Senior captains Eric Haversang and Alair Muzzati are looking forward to leading the team into the state tournament, and improving the team’s record this season.

“I’m hoping that our practices at

the [Essex Fells] Country Club will pay off in the long run,” Muzzati said.

Maxman anticipates a good season with the addition of new members and improvement of the veterans. “I think we will have a better year than last year because, although we [might suffer] from the loss of [last year-senior] Ed Christiana, we have acquired the Swedish phenomenon, senior Erik Jaerbur,” he said.

The veteran members have also “definitely improved.” The team expects “great things” from Haversang and Muzzatti, according to Maxman.

In regard to the state tournament, he said that though they “made states last year by a hair,” he is hoping the team will qualify more easily this year. A record over .500 by the halfway mark in the season will clinch the team a bid in the tournament.

Senior Justin Hubler, captain of the weight team, expects success from his players this season.

The new pole vaulting event is tough to participate in and requires a great deal of upper body strength.

Droz is only allowing players that have the ability to do twelve pull ups take part in the event. Practicing everyday and learning the right technique will help lift West Essex in the field events.

“We have more athletes than last year, and we are looking pretty good,” said Hubler. “I am hoping that the weight team will help us win some meets,” he added.

Senior captains Jason Mariscal and Michael Patson are “very excited” about the launch of the new season and are “eager” for the races to start.

“Niang is a great athlete and has proved himself worthy,” said senior Patson. “He is exciting to watch and a great weapon for the team,” he added.

Sophomore Danny Kinslow, two year team member in the short distance, noticed an enhancement to both the track and the field. In addition to Niang many athletes have improved the team in all categories.

“The season is looking better than last year especially with new freshman Tom Gasparo in the short distance, Niang in the long distance, and sophomore Mark Di’Mirtri in the field,” said Kinslow.

The 2007 season will include three home meets, exceptionally good news for the squad, as only one meet was

held at West Essex last year which left the coaches frustrated.

The season will begin on April 4th, against rival Dover. Captains are eager to win this meet and know it is possible as long as the players are focused and ready to compete, according to Patson.

“One thing I hope for this year, besides winning, is to have no injuries on the team. Then we will be able to perform well and not worry about who has to run what. This is our year,” he said.

New student, sophomore Mamadou Niang, practices on the track after school. Originally from Senegal, Niang moved to North Caldwell in the middle of the school year. He has recently run a timed mile in 5:12.

-photo courtesy of Alexa Notte

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14

TENNIS

Veteran tennis players look for fourth straight title Last season, the boys made it to the group final for the fourth time Captained by three four-year var- in four years, earning the Section sity players, this year’s boys’ ten- 2, Group 2 title. They beat Bernis team plans to “make it well into nards 4-1 and a talented Madison the further rounds of the state tour- team, to win the sixth sectional nament” with senior captains Jeff crown in West Essex history, but Young, Jared Prince, and Jared lost 3-2 to Tenafly in the state fiDavidson leading the way, accord- nals.

This season, they are only more ing to Prince.

Since the seniors joined the team dedicated and determined to win three years ago, they have won the title. “We lost a lot of very talthree consecutive conference ented seniors from last year, but I’m championships, three trips to the pretty confident that we’ve made sectional final, and one sectional up for it this season with both harder practices and better trainchampionship. ing during the off Senior Jared Davidson, the third singles player, season,” said works on his volleys at practice. Davidson has had Prince. two years of experience at doubles for West Essex, The two but this is his first year in a singles position. winningest positions on the team were important graduated seniors. Mike Gelberg had a record off 22-2 at third singles, and the two year pair of Dan Landy and Prince went 242 on the season at first doubles.

by Katie Rosenberg ‘07

and the Group 2 Championship, the team will need to “work hard in practice” and have “leadership from captains,” Albanese said.

M a tches against Livingston, Summit, and Chatham during the regular season, and teams like Milburn, Newark Academy, and Tenafly that they may face in tournament play will be challenges for the squad. The Newark Senior Jared Prince, who made first team AllAcademy Tournament and Group 2 and first team All-Conference last year at first doubles, returns this year as one Essex County Tournament, and likely, the state half of the first doubles team.

-photos courtesy of Alexa Notte tournament, will also be tough This year’s singles players, sophoThe duo also earned post season accolades, including first team All- more Evan Zimmer as first, Young in Group 2, first team All-Conference, the second spot, and Davidson as third singles, bring experience and and second team All-Essex.

The team also lost two alternate should be “strong,” Albanese said.

The first doubles team will be members this year. Senior Jamie Schiffenhaus will not play this sea- Prince and senior Michael Sackman, son, and senior Dan Atkins is suf- and the second doubles team will be senior Max Jacobson and sophomore fering from a shoulder injury.

Despite these losses, “five of Ben Sunshine.

Members who are also likely to see seven players are returning from last year’s starting team,” accord- time at doubles are sophomore ing to head coach Don Albanese. Steven Boltuch and freshmen RobIn order to win the conference ert Gelberg and Jeremy Celmer.

BASEBALL

After incredible season, team prepares for tough league

by John Veniero ‘07

Coming off last season with a huge Greater Newark Tournament championship win over Seton Hall Prep, which is ranked number one this year among high school teams in the country, the baseball team hopes to repeat their success.

“Words can’t even describe how I feel about what we were able to accomplish last season as a team,” said head coach Scott Illiano, who is in his twelfth season as coach, with an overall record of 156-117-1.

They finished with 19 wins and seven losses, despite suffering injuries to key players, with a stretch of 14 wins in 15 games, losing to eventual Group II champion Hanover Park. The highest point of the season was undoubtedly the GNT final.

The opposing Seton Hall squad was “so well coached, well prepared, and well talented, as evidenced by the amount of Division I scholarship players and Major League prospects” that they had in their lineup, according to Illiano.

“We were very fortunate to de-

feat them, especially considering that in order to do so, [the team] had to come from behind in front of a big crowd,” he said.

Illiano describes the feeling after the game by stealing a line from Gene Hackman in “Hoosiers,” that it was sort of like going to the moon and back.

Their tournament run was not just marked by dramatic success in the final game, however. Seeded 15th, they needed to win a preliminary game against Barringer just to make it to the tournament’s first round, according to Illiano. Next, they defeated number two ranked Nutley, a GNT finalist five consecutive years. In the third round, the team faced tenth ranked MKA, in an exciting, come-from-behind win. Finally, they beat third ranked East Side, to make it to the finals against Seton Hall.

“A win of that magnitude has not only inspired our current players to buy into our system, it has also proven to them that no dream is impossible as long as you never give up, never give in to adversity, and always give your best,” Illiano said.

“We believe in miracles. We

Senior pitcher Dom Raimondo, who will continue his baseball career in college, warms up on the JV field with the rest of the team. Raimondo, who made first team All-County and All-Conference, finished the 2006 season with six wins and two losses, and a 1.37 ERA. -photo courtesy of Alexa Notte

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GIRLS’ LACROSSE

Girls’ lacrosse prepares for another big season...

LACROSSE (Left top, left middle, left bottom) The girls lacrosse team, on the turf, practices for a schedule which includes Mendham, West Morris Central, and Chatham, with drills and conditioning. Junior Alba Loconsole returns this season as goalie.

SHOWDOWN (Right top) Mondo shoots a free throw in a Faculty-Student game in which the teachers won.

(Right middle) Seniors Will Wild and Tom Grossi were hard at work coaching their team, as was senior Malcolm Bertram on the court.

(Right, bottom) Senior Martin Mihaly was hit during the game, but Coach Droz was right there to help him.

...and the faculty and students battle in The Showdown

-lacrosse pictures courtesy of Alexa Notte, Showdown pictures by Andy Maxman

BASEBALL (CONT.) believe in winning against the odds, and we believe in the power of the human spirit.”

Teams like Parsippany Hills, Parsippany, Summit, and Dover will be very tough again this year, so the team knows they cannot “take a single day off” within their league, Illiano said.

“Last season, Hanover Park won the Group II state championship but finished behind Mendham and Morris Hills within our own division,” said Illiano, which shows how competitive their conference is.

Illiano expects many Essex County teams to be strong this year as well, including Nutley, East Side, Bloomfield, Cedar Grove, MKA, and Caldwell, teams who were especially impressive in the s u m m e r ’s A m e r i c a n L e g i o n league.

Millburn, Livingston, Newark Academy, Belleville, and Verona have also been strong in recent years, and Montclair returns with

the 2006 freshman of the year, pitcher Mason Baccardo, according to Illiano.

This year, the team hopes to be just as strong, with major “competition from within” in nearly every position. About nine players are vying for “four or five” positions, according to Illiano.

Although a few key players graduated, there are a number of returning starters from last year’s squad, including seniors Dom Raimondo, John Baab, Vin Valerian, and Ant Dalonges, and sophomore Joe D’Annunzio.

Some seniors are looking to continue their baseball careers, including star pitcher Raimondo, who made first-team All-Essex and first-team All-Conference last y e a r, i s d e c i d i n g b e t w e e n Ramapo, William Paterson, Montclair State, and Pace.

Catcher Baab, who made second-team All-Essex, will play next season for Monmouth University, according to Illiano.

Next issue...

boys’ volleyball and girls’ lacrosse stories, season reviews, and state tournament coverage

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h s i n i F o t o h P

16

S p r i n g t r a i n i n g ...

(Left) The top four players on the varsity tennis team, seniors Jared Davidson, Jeff Young, Jared Prince, and sophomore Evan Zimmer, meet with Coach Albo to discuss a drill.

(Above) The entire boys’ varsity tennis team practices for their season, which will include a tough outing at the Delbarton Tournament and Essex County Tournament.

(Below) Senior Carissa Franzi and sophomore Breada Farrell throw as Coach Cosse and 11-month old daughter Evangeline look on.

(Left) The boys’ track team finishes out a sprint to end their practice. This year, the track team will host three meets at home, which is two more than they were able to have at West Essex last year.

(Below) Senior pitcher Danielle Bertscha practices her windmill in preparation for a big season ahead.

(Left) The varsity and JV girls’ lacrosse teams, as well as the 7th and 8th grade and varsity track teams, take advantage of a beautiful day by practicing for their upcoming seasons.

(Left below) The boys’ varsity baseball team listens to Coach Scott Illiano for directions. The team looks to repeat the success of last season, in which they beat a now number one ranked Seton Hall Prep team to win the GNT. (Right below) The girls’ softball team cheers on senior Brittany Burlazzi in a practice scrimmage versus the JV team.