The Wessex Wire (October 2010)

The Wessex Wire The Student Newspaper of West Essex Regional High School Vol. XLV No. 1

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

October 2010

W.E. moves upthein N.J. ranks jump. Longo said, “We have been

by Kelly Mosser ’11

Photo courtesy of Melissa Kuscin

The West Essex Knight pumps up the crowd at the Spirit Week Pep Rally on Oct. 22

Seniors dominate spirit week

by Geordy Boveroux ’11

Spirit week festivities were held at West Essex the week of Oct. 18-22.

Students and faculty showed school pride through strong participation each day.

Monday, Oct. 18 was pro sports day.

The school’s halls were dominated by Jets, Giants and Yankees jerseys. The next day, students were encouraged to wear apparel from their favorite university or college. Wednesday, the Student Council held a new ugly sweater contest, with a $25 gift card going to the ugliest. Senior Kayleigh Thies and sophomore Erica Gallion tied for the prize. Thursday, the grades were divided by color. They exhibited enthusiam for their respec-

tive grades, seniors sporting blue, juniors purple, sophomores green and freshman yellow. Many seniors, however, were disappointed in not being able to decorate the school, as per tradition. To compensate for the lost opportunity to cover the school in blue, the Student Council organized a pancake breakfast for all seniors sponsored by the Original Pancake House. The council also bought eyeblack and blue necklaces to futher display senior pride.

Seniors Pat Dyer and Meghan Gambichler were crowned Homecoming King and Queen the pep rally on Friday. The events at the pep rally included a relay race, screaming contest, dance off and tug-of-war.

Seniors won the pep rally events with the highest score of the four grades.

Upcoming Events NJEA Teacher’s Convention- November 4-5 End of First Marking Period- November 12 The Crucible- November 19-20 Thanksgiving Break- November 25-26 (early dismissal on the 24) Inside This Issue:

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News

Midterm elections News Bytes Plane malfunctions

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Opinions

Mosque Debate Privilege Your vote counts

West Essex has moved up in the rankings of the best high schools in N.J., according to New Jersey Monthly Magazine. The 2010 list gives our school the 36th spot, which is a significant jump from 48th in 2008.

Schools are judged based upon student-faculty ratio, average SAT scores, HSPA scores, number of Advanced Placement tests offered, scores on AP exams and percentage of students going to two and four year universities after high school.

Millburn High School remains at the top of the list for the second term in a row, and McNair Academy and Tenafly High School retained their second and third rankings, respectively.

Principal Barbara Longo is pleased with

placing higher focus on academics these past few years. Our faculty has zeroed in on difficulties students have in class and corrected them. These new rankings show that our efforts have paid off.”

The jump has several benefits. For students applying to colleges, the shift will certainly help. Many admissions officers regard a school with strong standings as having students who are ambitious and well-prepared for college. Admissions officers are aware that students who attend highly ranked schools have the opportunity to take Advanced Placement classes and to devote time to preparing for standardized testing. Overall, it can only serve as an advantage to students in the application process. The positive shift in the standings will also gain West Essex respect from surrounding districts.

Red and white go green

by Celina DeLuca ’11

A “carbon footprint” is a test that measures how many earths it would take to sustain the resources used if everyone in the world lived the same way as the test taker. If everyone lived like an average West Essex student, it would take five and one-half earths to sustain that way of life.

West Essex has made several changes this year in the way the school appears and functions. Some of these changes promote a better quality environment.

The new windows, for instance, are more energy efficient. In the winter they keep the heat in and the cold out, and vice-versa in the warmer months.

By doing this, the heating and cooling systems don’t need to work as hard to keep the school at the right temperature, thus using less energy and making for a cleaner environment.

West Essex is a medium-sized high school and needs a lot of power to run day in and day out. The school uses

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Arts &

TV show reviews W.E. likes this Culture “Housewives”

approximately four million kilowatts in energy per month, amounting to a $500,000 monthly energy bill.

It is understood that lights need to be on, computers need to function and paper needs to be printed, but there are steps the school can take to impact tge environment According to Communications Officer Carrie Sterrs, the school is considered fully operational running from 6 a.m. to 5 p.m. each day and is staffed until 11 p.m.

Even more transformations are in the works for West Essex High School. Solar panel installation is being discussed. Sterrs said, “Right now, they [The Board of Education] are exploring different options in relation to solar energy and weighing the costs and benefits accordingly.”

Other organizations are also dedicated to improving West Essex. The WE CARE club along with Adviser Deanna Lippi are dedicated to analyzing the way West Essex and the community live, determining how it can become a cleaner society.

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Features

Senioritis Red Mango New lunchroom

October 2010

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The Wessex Wire

Club Bytes

by Carlye Frost ’11 and Sarah McGrath ’11 WE CARE- West Essex Coalition for the Active Restoration of the Environment is an educational service group advised by Ms. Deanna Lippi and is committed to making the school and community aware of the environment. The members of the club try to reduce, reuse, and recycle as well as encourage others to do so. Throughout the year, the club plans to hold natural and organic snack fundraisers to raise money for different causes and will hold many drives to collect items such as snack wrappers for a company named TerraCycle which “upcycles” garbage into common consumer goods.

The National Art Honor Society- Students in the NAHS have maintained an A average in all their art classes. The society is a presitigious group of only the elite art students. However, all art students are able to apply for induction during the second half of their sophomore year. They participate in various projects.

West Essex shows support by decorating the campus for Breast Cancer Awareness.

West Essex thinks October pink

by Madi Berse ’11

In honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, both students and teachers at West Essex are representing their support by proudly wearing pink. It has been spotted in hair, apparel and even laces.

The football team paid $5 to wear pink laces to donate to breast cancer awareness. Senior football player Grant McGuire said: “I love the laces.

It feels really good that the team can contribute to such a great cause.”

Senior field hockey Captain Casey Higgins said: “Wearing pink extensions is something that we can do as a team and at the same time promote breast cancer awareness month.

We’ve also been wearing pink laces in honor of the month.”

The cheerleading team also has pink extensions. The girls got the extensions at Aura Hair Salon which provides the service every year. Each extension cost $10 and the money goes to The Breast Cancer Foundation.

The teachers have also been contributing to Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Every Friday, the teachers who wear denim donate $5 to the Susan G. Komen foundation.

Parents have been selling thermals at the football games for the month of October. The black thermals say “Share the Care” on the front and have a pink ribbon on the back. West Essex has been actively participating in Breast Cancer Awareness Month and the school hopes to continue the spirit for other causes throughout the remainder of the year.

Italian Club- Italian Club is for all students who take Italian and want to learn more and participate in Italian activities. This student group strives to promote the appreciation of Italian culture by watching movies, listening to music and doing an assortment of projects. The club will hold a bake sale in November to raise money for the Italian Club party in December which will include Italian food, Italian music, games and more.

Photo by Ryan Towey

Masquers to perform drama

by Ryan Towey ’12

The West Essex Masquers will perform “The Crucible” on Nov. 19 and 20. Following callbacks on Sept. 23., the selected cast practiced almost every Monday through Thursday. After Teacher’s Convention, the cast plans to practice for 10 straight days.

According to the director of the production, Ms. Christa Sorrentino, West Essex last performed “The Crucible” in 1986. In recent years, the Masquers’ fall productions have been comedies.

Sorrentino, who has yet to direct a drama, said, “Most directors find comedy easier.” Sorrentino believes it is important for well rounded ac-

tors to experience all types of plays, including dramas, and part of her criteria for a role is the actor’s interaction with the audience.

The lead roles are to be played by juniors Alexa Farnese, Gina Morrello, Jesse Asche, Daniel Hargrove, Marco Glinbizzi and seniors Carly Schlecker and Doug Overbeck.

Morrello said, “I think it’s going to be different for the Masquers.”

Asche, one of just six males who auditioned for the play, said, “I’ve been looking forward to being a part of a dramatic production.” Although the play requires 10 male roles, Sorrentino is confident that some females will be capable of filling “pant roles.”

Sorrentino said, “It’s daunting, but it’s going to be fun.”

Ms. Robyn Paglia helps students to peruse the many goods the Armory has to offer.

School store ready to sell

by Celina DeLuca ’11

The Armory, West Essex High School’s new school store, opened on Back to School Night, Oct. 7. The store contains school paraphernalia such as clothing, pencils, binders, car chalk and chairs. Each item has the either the Knights mascot or printed “West Essex” lettering.

W.E. Connect teacher, Ms. Robyn Paglia, has accepted the duty of running

the new school store. “We need to get the word out,” she said. “The purpose [of the school store] is to build school spirit and improve morale between students and staff.”

The store is open in the morning from 7:15 a.m. to 7:30 a.m. and in the afternoon from 2:35 p.m. to 2:50 p.m. Soon to come for the school store are pinnies and bandanas. Due to the limited hours, order forms are available and an internet store will soon be established.

October 2010

The Wessex Wire

Preparing for November elections Currently the Senate is composed of 56 Democrats, 41 Republicans and two Independents. November voters This year’s midterm elections will will determine who takes both the commence on Tuesday, Nov. 2 to deter- Senate and the House majority. The mine the candidates that will fill the 435 political party, who holds the CongresHouse seats and 37 Senate seats. Voters sional majority is significant because in 37 elections will elect their governors Congress passes and several local laws, decides on mayoral positions how government are up as well. This money is spent, midterm election and also shapes will determine foreign policy. which political Republicans party gains conhoping to claim trol of the House some formerand Senate. Demly Democratic ocrats currently seats have a sigPhotos courtesy of house.gov and William Watts dominate both the nificantly better House and Senate Republican Rodney Frelinghuysen (Left) chance now that in Congress, but and Democrat Douglas Herbert (Right) Obama’s current Republicans are eaapproval rating ger to gain control over at least one of has dropped to 44 percent. the chambers.

According to a poll on CNN.com, The November elections are called the deciding issues for most voters are mid-terms because they are held halfway the economy, the healthcare and the through the four-year term held by the budget deficit. president. The House of Representatives Locally, there will be an election is the larger house in Congress, based on to determine the district’s represenpopulation per state, and members are put tative in the House. The candidates up for election every two years. The Sen- include current representatives Rodate is smaller and composed of only two ney Frelinghuysen (R) and Douglas members from each state. The Senate was Herbert (D). In Roseland, there will designed to be a more insightful long-term be a mayoral election in which John group, so they serve for six years.

Duthie (R) is running uncontested.

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Coal miners rescued

News Bytes

by Sarah McGrath ’11

by Geordy Boveroux ’11, Shai Kartus’11 and Ryan Towey ’12

Nobel Prize winners

The 33 miners who were trapped nearly a half mile underground in Chile were finally brought to the surface on Oct. 13. The miners arrived into a scene full of applause after two over months stuck underground. After two days of lowering the NASA-developed Phoenix capsule, the final miner was finally lifted back to the surface at night as most of the world watched.

Terror alert issued

The recipients of the major Nobel Prizes were announced and will be formally awarded in Oslo Sweden on Dec. 10. Liu Xiaobo was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for his work in 2008 on a manifesto against the Chinese government. Two scientists at the University of Manchester in England were awarded the Novel Prize in Physics for their work on an ultra-thin material called graphene, a form of carbon only one atom thick.

The State department issued a terror alert on Oct. 3 that urged Americans to be aware of possible terrorist attacks in Europe. The alert is not meant to discourage travel to the region, but is meant to make citizens exercise caution on their trip. This alert stemmed from American and European counterterrorism officials analyzing intelligence on possible plots aimed at Britain, France and Germany by potential terrorists in Pakistan and North Africa.

Church faces Supreme Court

Eric LeGrand paralyzed

The Westboro Baptist Church believes that terrorism and violence are God’s punishment for America’s acceptance of the LGBT community. In order to spread their message, they have picketed outside of American soldiers’ funerals with signs that read “God Hates Fags” and “Thank God for dead soldiers.” Following their picketing at Matthew Snyder’s funeral service after his death in Iraq, Albert Snyder, his father, sued them for damages and the First Amendment battle has reached the Supreme Court in Snyder v. Phelps.

Rutgers junior defensive tackle Eric LeGrand was paralyzed from the neck down after a hit on a kickoff return in Rutgers 23-20 overtime victory against Army on Oct. 16.

LeGrand is responsive and aware of what challenges he faces with his injury. LeGrand has been a member of the team’s leadership council the past two seasons which is only second to team captain in leadership responsibilities. No prognosis of his recovery has been announced.

Public fears more plane malfunctions

by Carlye Frost ’11

Photo courtesy of Brittany Berman

In September, there were three plane malfunctions, one right after the other, with two coming out of the same airport. On Sept. 26, Delta Connection flight 4951 operated by Atlanta Southeast Airlines flying from Atlanta, Ga. to White Plains, N.Y. had to land in New York City at John F. Kennedy Airport after reporting a problem with its landing gear. As the plane made an emergency landing, it had to land on the side wing of the airplane. Due to the malfunction of the proper landing gear, it had no other option. Sparks flew everywhere. A video, which was filmed by a passenger on the flight, is now on the Internet and shows the stewardesses yelling at passengers to keep “heads down,” “stay down” and “brace for impact.” No passengers were injured.

Just one day later, Delta flight 1097 from Atlanta, Ga. to Houston, Texas had to make a crucial landing as well into Hartsfield-Jackson Airport in At-

lanta on Sept. 27. The flight took off at 10:13 p.m. and was forced to land right before 10:30 p.m. after smoke was noticed coming from the cockpit.

The flight made a quick turn around and landed at the airport to be investigated.

No injuries were reported.

The next day, Sept. 28, a SkyWest Airlines flight made an urgent landing into General Mitchell Airport in Milwaukee, Wis. The cockpit reported that they had to make a necessary landing because only two of the three plane’s landing gears would lower. The three crewmembers and 36 passengers all were escorted off the plane safely as the plane was looked at more closely.

Emergency landings were seemingly unheard of before the miracle on the Hudson, but now people are beginning to think twice about flying. Senior Kayleigh Thies said, “I fly so much and even though I hate it, I’ve never had a problem—but now with all the recent malfunctions I’m seriously considering not flying as much anymore.”

Opinion

October 2010 Issue 1

Editorial In light of the recent tragedy of Rutgers University student Tyler Clemente’s suicide, we at the Wessex Wire have turned our attention towards bullying worldwide and the dangers that can occur if somebody feels that he or she is being targeted because of sexual preference. According to ABC World News, the organization Campus Pride reports that, “at the college level, one-third of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgendered students and faculty have seriously considered leaving their institution due to the challenging climate.”

It is necessary for teens to feel they have a safe haven within school walls. This stands true for every level of education, from college, all the way down through high school to middle school. Nine out of 10 Lesbian-Gay-Bi-Transgender (LGBT) students have experience harassment in school and over one-third of LGBT kids have attempted to commit suicide. It is our responsibility, as peers and fellow students, to put an end to the bullying and the violence.

Senior Doug Overbeck, president of our school’s Gay-Straight Alliance, feels that these recent incidents of high profile bullying are results of ignorance and lack of respect for our fellow human beings. “No one should feel uncomfortable in who they are, especially in school. We need to teach each other the importance of acceptance and appreciating what makes us different,” said Overbeck.

As high school students, we are at the cusp of entering “the real world,” where we will be surrounded by people of all races, economic standings and sexual orientations. We all must exercise tolerance toward these groups and be open to enriching ourselves by learning from others. This acceptance can and must begin with us, if we hope to exist in a world where self-expression is not threatened, but encouraged.

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

News Editors Celina Deluca ‘11 Ryan Towey ‘12 Features Editors Shai Kartus ‘11 Carlye Frost ‘11 Arts & Culture Editors Nikki Maxman ‘11 Madi Berse ‘11 Layout Editor Lacy Tell ‘11

Editors-in-chief Geordy Boveroux ‘11 Kelly Mosser ‘11 Opinion Editors Sonia Aviv ‘11 Lisa Feierstein ‘11 Sports Editors Jackie Martorana ‘11 Tom Paranzine ‘11 Copy Editors Sarah McGrath ‘11 Erica Lieb’11 Adviser Ms. Lo

No plumber can fix under these Wikileaks the First Amendment. However, in

by Lisa Feierstein ’11

this case (particularly in regard to the war

It is as though thousands upon thou- documents), this freedom on WikiLeaks sands of sensitive documents were sewage water, all of it swishing about in a giant, iron pipe. Yet somebody decided to wrench open this sealed cylinder, falsely believing that these pollutants should not have been trapped inside – that people should know what flows through their plumbing system.

Julian Assange, the highly skilled Australian hacker is the man who helped to create WikiLeaks.org in 2007. This website that leaks classified documents in the belief that “transparency in government activities” allows for the releasing of these files to be “the strongest way we have of generating the true democracy and good governance on which all mankind's dreams depend,” according to the WikiLeaks site.

WikiLeaks has had altercations with the United States government since it was founded – from publishing the private emails of Sarah Palin to posting the prison protocol manual of Guantánamo Bay. The sites splashed across even more headlines in July after releasing the “Afghan War Diary,” a trove of 91,000 secret documents outlining military and political actions during the Afghan war.

Freedom of speech is, as it should be, a guaranteed right in the United States

should be restricted. The website has obtained private, classified files which obviously do not and did not originally belong to it – although every institution does have the right to say and print what they wish to, institutions, including those of the government, also have a right to privacy. And for good reason: public or worldwide knowledge of certain government actions could put both nations, individuals and in states of danger.

The document leaks could have disastrous effects upon America’s national security. WikiLeaks could put U.S. troops and others involved in Middle East warfare in danger as well because terrorists now have access to the military files published. In a CNN article, Adm. Mike Mullen, the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, is quoted as saying that WikiLeaks may already “have on their hands the blood of some young soldier or that of an Afghan family.”

No legislation or government, unfortunately, can currently terminate the postings of WikiLeaks. This is due to the fact that the site publishes content on over 20 servers worldwide, has a highly complex cybersecurity system and that there is no single physical operating location for WikiLeaks.

Upperclassmen are underprivileged

2010-2011 STAFF:

Managing Editor Brittany Berman ‘11

The Wessex Wire Page 4

Business Manager KJ Glenn ‘11 Photographer Melissa Kuscin ’11 Section Apprentices Griffin Glenn ’13 Alex Schwartz ’12 Spencer Satz ’12 Regina Walter ’13 Staff Writers Paul Haramis ’12 Victoria Agrifolio ’14

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.

by Carlye Frost ’11

Senior year—the one chance for students to reach the top of the high school hierarchy. However, for the seniors of 2011 this doesn’t seem to be the case.

From athletics to in-school privileges, our needs aren’t the main priority. For the past three years we have been slowly moving up the totem pole. Although we’re finally at the top, it sure doesn’t feel the way it should.

During their last year of high school, seniors should be able to take full advantage of school opportunities and receive all of the perks, like having a new locker. After all of the renovations done this summer, the seniors are the ones who should reap the greatest benefits, not the underclassmen. Senior Kristi Kovats said, “The freshmen don’t deserve those lockers, they’re small enough to fit inside them!”

Seniors also think they should be able to go out for lunch. Senior Grant McGuire said, “We are old enough and responsible enough to go out and get what we feel is a good meal. Plus, we have all the time we need in a 42 minute lunch period.”

Playing sports in high school is important and students make sure to constantly work hard to gain a varsity spot. Those who are fortunate enough to make varsity before senior year are guaranteed a solid spot on the team until they graduate, and for those who continuously work towards improvement but don’t make varsity are traditionally assured a spot in their senior year.

However, the rules have changed. Worthy seniors who should have clinched a varsity spot didn’t make the team, not to mention the students who were already on varsity the previous year were also cut. Senior Cody Russo said, “I don’t think it’s fair to kick off seniors who deserve to be a part of the team when you have some underclassmen who clearly aren’t ready for the varsity level.” Not only is this unfair, but it clearly shows that seniors aren’t considered superior to the underclassmen anymore.

So at last we’ve reached senior year—a year in which students are supposed to be on top and get special privileges. But apparently, this isn’t our year.

October 2010

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The Wessex Wire

The Wessex Wire debates: the Manhattan Mosque Pro-Mosque

by Geordy Boveroux ’11

In America, Constitutional law often conflicts with ethics, sparking debates that can headline news stations for weeks. The proposed plan to build Cardoba Cultural Center is another prime example of this clash. Imam (similar to a Catholic Priest or Jewish Rabbi) Feisal Abdul Rauf, has plans to build the center with a top-floor Mosque two blocks away from Ground Zero in New York City. Many are strongly against the proposed construction, but I feel as though Muslims have not had a chance to fully state their case.

September 11, 2001 fostered a national pride not seen since World War II. In mourning the loss of nearly 3,000 loved ones, a newfound faith in our patriotism arose. Cars and houses raised flags prominently displayed in their windows as President George Bush’s approval rating shot up over 90 percent due to his response to the tragedy. But with 51 percent of New Yorkers, in a recent Daily News/ Marist poll, being against the building of the cultural center at the Park51 location, we as Americans are neglecting one of the things that make us so unique - our diversity. Ever since the Sept. 11 tragedy, Americans have suppressed the Muslim faith, even though many Muslims have lived here their entire lives and are proud American citizens.

All Americans are protected under the Constitution. The First Amendment

to this document provides, among other rights, freedom of religion. Muslims have every right to build the Cordoba Center.

While some have been expressing their right to freedom of speech in their protest of the Cordoba Cultural Center, there is nothing that can be legally done to stop the building of the mosque. It is solely a matter of ethics and public opinion.

Those against the Cordoba Center believe that the building of it will be disrespectful to those who lost their lives. But this center does not involve the sect of Islam to which the radical extremists, who attacked the United States, belong. Claiming that all Muslims are the same is similar to saying all Christians share the same views as the Westboro Baptist Church, known for picketing at soldier’s funerals. While it is the same religion, the extremists interpret the Qur’an in a different way. Most Muslims are peaceful, while Al Qaeda views their religion as a reason to attack America. You cannot blame the followers of one religion just because of the actions of one sect.

While those against the mosque have valid points, laws prevent them from doing anything to stop its construction.

As long as Imam Rauf legally purchases the land, it is his to do as he pleases with it. Rauf and his supporters are not trying to spit in the face of those victims and have no other malicious intent. I mourn with those who lost loved ones, but I also mourn for Muslims who are unfairly treated because of the acts of the extremists.

Anti-Mosque

by Kelly Mosser ’11

The last idea I would ever try to convey is one of religious intolerance. I believe that different religions should make all possible efforts to connect with and understand one another. With that said, I am also firmly opposed to the construction of the Cordoba Cultural Center near Ground Zero in New York City.

As American citizens, members of the Islamic community have every right to construct what many will regard as a center for their faith. The plans for the building have been made public, and the center anticipates including a Mosque on the top floor.

While all Americans have the freedom to practice religion wherever they please under the First Amendment, I feel that to do so only 0.22 miles from the site where thousands were killed

by Islamic extremists would simply be insensitive.

How can people be so critical of the families of the victims who died on September 11, 2001? Those of us who did not lose anybody in the World Trade Center cannot understand the pain the families must experience being constantly surrounded by reminders of the attacks. Because the recent Mosque issue has garnered so much attention, I imagine that many families’ wounds have already been

reopened. Executing the Mosque plans may simply be too much for the families to handle emotionally.

In addition to the effects it would have on 9/11 families, building the center may also put the community center’s members at risk. Clearly, the issue has triggered many protests, which would likely only worsen if plans to build are approved. The unfortunate reality is that people may view the center as a threat, and target Muslims who attend with hate crimes.

While many people are certain of the center’s Imam Faisel Abdul Rauf’s respectability and positive intentions, I worry that perhaps he is not as benign as he portrays himself to be. Imam Rauf was interviewed by “60 Minutes” anchor Ed Bradley several weeks after the 2001 attacks.

He accused the United States of being “an accessory” to Sept.11, and was even bold enough to say that “Osama bin Laden is made in the U.S.A.” He has also refused to denounce Hamas, which is a militant and terroristic Islamic group.

I do not believe the Islamic community’s intentions behind building the center are malicious. I simply feel that the best way to reach their self proclaimed goal of religious tolerance would be to nix the plans and build their center somewhere less controversial.

September 11, 2001: More than a mere memory

by Jackie Martorana ’11

I am a 17-year-old senior girl. I like to play sports. I complain about too much homework. I spend more time with my friends than I should. I have a younger sister. I drive a Toyota. I deal with boy drama. I am a normal student at West Essex High School.

The fine line between normal and abnormal for me was very nearly crossed in September of 2001. I am fortunate enough to stand here today and say I have two healthy, loving parents. If the chain of events had gone any differently that day, however, this very well may not be the case.

My father worked as a mailroom manager in the World Trade Center – South Tower, 39th floor. During the Sept. 11 attacks, he was at work in his office; after all, it was just an ordinary day. After the first plane hit the North Tower, a P.A. announcement advised

all employees to remain in their offices and continue on with their day. My father and the other members of his floor chose instead to leave and make their way down to the street.

Maybe it was because he is stubborn.

Maybe it was a gut feeling or a premonition. Maybe it was common sense.

It could have been a show of bravery or an act of fear. It could have been a display of courage or a lack thereof. To be honest, I don’t really care to know.

Whatever the reasoning, my father found himself amongst his co-workers, forcing his way down the cramped stairwell when the second plane crashed into his building. He felt the collision, felt the structure shake, saw the chaos and destruction when he finally reached the ground. But he was alive.

Only after waiting five hours for a ferry across the Hudson, taking a bus to North Bergen and relying on my uncle, the Chief of Police in Palisades Park, to

get him the remaining way through the closed streets, did he return home late that evening. To this day I still do not know what is more unbelievable to me: that I could have lost my father to an act of terrorism nine years ago, or that my family and I had spent the day visiting him at work only weeks earlier.

Many others here at West Essex may not feel the same emotional attachment to Sept. 11 as I do. It’s understandable – we were young and probably don’t remember enough to form a solid memory.

What they do not realize is that Sept. 11 was not simply another historical event.

Every single one of us is connected to what happened that day, not only as Americans, but as Americans living within 25 miles of New York City.

Nine years later, do not let the memory of Sept. 11 fade into the pages of a history textbook. Remember those who lost their lives, those who were affected emotionally and physically, those who are forced

to bear their painful memories with them every day and those whose wounds are still fresh, despite the passing of time.

Remember the values this country was founded upon. Remember what generations after generations have gone through to ensure that those values are passed on.

Remember what America continues to stand for today. Remember 9/11.

Drawing by Madi Berse

October 2010

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The Wessex Wire

Seniors vote for superLIEtives Does it bother you...?

by Sonia Aviv ’11

One of the highlights of senior year is, of course, the class polls. It’s the way soon-to-be graduates are able to leave their mark upon their school forever. On Sept. 29, the Class of 2011 voted for the superlatives.

However, the fairness of these results should be questioned.

One main problem with the polls is that they are taken in lunch. Clearly, everyone was influenced by who they share a table with. It seems as though one forgets about the rest of the school and only fills his or her paper with the names of the members of the table.

Not only that, but there were people peering over shoulders and monitoring the votes, ensuring that their name was written down. The typical “I’ll vote for you if you vote for me” negotiation often occurred as well.

Also, superlatives are not the equivalent of a presidential campaign. People run through the hallways hollering “vote for me for best....!” What’s coming next, flyers and speeches? There are students who literally go lunch table to

lunch table and advertise themselves as a candidate. Last time I checked, superlatives are reserved for the most memorable people of each category not the ones who promote themselves the most. Another issue is the people who collect completed polls. If someone couldn’t think of a vote and left a space blank, some of these people actually go through the papers and fill their own names in. Even worse, some of them change the votes!

And of course, there is the “fab physique category, the most commonly discussed issue. I’m not a stickler about this category and I don’t think it’s that inappropriate. However, the school must be aware that there are many students with self-esteem issues and this category can be offensive and hurtful and should not be advocated in a school environment.

There probably is no way that class polls will ever be completely fair. There is always influence, not surprisingly, because that’s what high school is about.

Hopefully, though, West Essex can find a way to alleviate the issues regarding the polls.

Eighteen and apathetic: why your vote counts

by Jackie Martorana ’11

Among the rights granted to citizens by the United States government, voting is arguably the most important. In a country that prides itself on the democratic process, it appears that much of the population has come to take its right to vote for granted. According to the International Institute for Democracy and Electoral Assistance, only 40 percent of eligible voters in the U.S. regularly participate in elections. This pales in comparison to the 70 percent voting rates in countries such as Italy, Australia and Sweden.

Much of this low turnout rate is due to citizens just like us, average high school and college students, who are indifferent to their part in the voting process. Young adults ages 18 to 24 are considered to be the group least likely to vote. Only 58 percent of this age group is registered to vote; in the 2008 presidential election, a mere 53 percent of eligible voters age 18-24 cast ballots, as recorded by Civicyouth.org.

The 26th Amendment to the Constitution, ratified in 1971, set the voting age at 18. For many of us turning 18, registering to vote is the farthest thing from our minds. We are applying to college, participating in clubs and sports and working towards graduation, all while trying to find time for family and

friends. However, we must remember that becoming a legal adult comes with responsibility. Our commitment to the democratic process is a major part of this responsibility.

Senior Ben Minden said, “People are fighting and dying to preserve our nation’s right to vote. The least that we can do to support them is express our opinions.”

Many young people claim ignorance.

They feel as though candidates do not address them in their campaigns and school systems leave them uninformed on election issues. Part of voting is taking the initiative to learn about the candidates and where they stand on topics that are important to the country, as well as on topics that are important personally. A well-informed youth is imperative to the future governance of our country.

Senior Sam Einhorn said, “It’s our job to participate in elections. If people don’t register to vote, they have no right to complain about what happens when a candidate takes office.”

Whether you are interested in politics or not, it is inevitable that the decisions made in government will affect your life, regardless of if it is tomorrow or years from now. Do not waste your opportunity to have a hand in shaping our government and, in turn, shaping our country.

by KJ Glenn ’11

Does it bother you that you can’t have food or drinks on the gym bleachers? If the new bleachers are supposed to make for a better, more comfortable fan experience, why would they ban beverages and snacks? I can appreciate the color-coordinated Knights written across the stands, but if I can’t stay hydrated and bring a water bottle to the basketball game, then I don’t see the point in going.

The entire process of Physical Education bothers me. The fact that I am not allowed to wear a green shirt is just annoying - not every one of my shirts expresses my school spirit. Why do I still have to line up in squad lines? I’m not in fourth grade. Why do I have to sign a permission slip to take gym? Do I have to sign a permission slip to read my history book, or to write newspaper articles? No. Why do I have to run a timed mile if I play football? I love going all out in my all-male handball class, but these mundane rules make the experience much less enjoyable.

Lastly, it bothers me that my Journalism brothers, Joe “The Muscleman” Raimondo and Mike Heller are no longer with us. We miss you dearly.

Photo by Geordy Boveroux

KJ Glenn in pensive thought about what bothers him at West Essex.

The “Don’t Ask Don’t Tell” policy

by Sarah McGrath ’11

Today, in the United States, being an openly gay member of the armed forces will result in a general or honorable military discharge. According to CNN, a total of 13,000 service members have been let go under the 17-year-old policy known as “Don’t Ask Don’t Tell” (DADT). The policy was result of a compromise and prohibits the military from asking service members about their sexuality, allowing them to serve only if they keep it in secret.

DADT is unconstitutional and political disputes in the Senate have caused it to continue to stay in effect. The United States has progressed a lot since this rule was created and the country needs to step into the 21st century and overturn it.

The policy violates the First Amendment and encroaches on the rights of homosexuals in our country. However, despite its discriminative nature, when it was put up for repeal in the Senate in September, according to abcnews. com, every Republican Senator voted against it, making sure to stick to party lines before the upcoming midterm elections. What opposing Senators fail to acknowledge is that these gay soldiers are American citizens, dedicated to serving the country, and should not be discharged from the military simply because of their sexuality. In combat, if someone is a strong service member,

their sexual orientation should be completely irrelevant.

As polled by CNN, 78 percent of Americans favor a repeal of DADT and Obama promised in his State of the Union Address that it would be repealed during his presidency.

On Oct. 12, California federal Judge Virginia Philips issued an injunction stopping the Defense Department from enforcing DADT. The U.S. Department of Justice has 60 days to appeal and doing so would bring the case to the U.S. Court of Appeals. Gay rights advocates are encouraging soldiers not to come out, in fear that the injunction could be removed during a possible appeal.

The United States needs to be more accepting of minorities and Congress members need to vote for the good of the country rather than the good of their own political party. Some of our allies, who fight alongside us in the Iraq and Afghanistan war like the United Kingdom, allow gay members to fight in their militaries and in comparison our country looks very narrow-minded by enforcing such a discriminatory rule.

DADT is unjust, outdated and in the end it is costing our country money to train troops as replacements for those released from the military. Hopefully, after the midterm elections it will be repealed because the rule is a misrepresentation of the freedoms of our great country.

&

Arts Arts

Culture West Essex likes this Fashion backward October 2010 Issue 1

by Madi Berse ’11

Ten years ago, the college application process was easy. One could simply fill out his or her application, get a teacher recommendation and perhaps sit down and talk with their guidance counselor once or twice. Overall, applying to colleges and universities was not all that diffi cult. However, nowadays, students have to be much more careful with their actions. Since the introduction of Facebook in 2004 and Twitter in 2006, students’ private lives have been made public.

Recently, students have been concealing their “tweets” on Twitter and changing their privacy settings on Facebook to protect their confidentiality rights, and with good reason. Suppose someone sarcastically tweeted, “Screw this college application- I’m having my mom write my essay.” If an admissions person were to see this tweet, they might misunderstand and think that the student was serious.

Students are justified in reconsidering their privacy settings. Senior Sydney Karp said, “It’s not that I have inappropriate things on my Facebook and Twitter, I would just rather colleges didn’t jump to conclusions about my personality.”

As a result, students have resorted to changing their names on Facebook so that colleges can’t search for them.

For example, seniors including Casey Higgins, Krista Milinkovich and Car-

mella Fede have changed their names on Facebook. Somehow students have fit their names into words, people and even small catch phrases. Other students have decided to spell their names backwards, making the search completely unavailable.

Another option is to change one’s email so that it doesn’t correspond to the email available on Facebook.

Senior Kristi Kovats said, “If your email is the same on your college application and on your Facebook or Twitter, it makes it easier for colleges to look you up.” If you are seriously concerned about your privacy, change your email on either Facebook or your college application.

According to an article in the Wall Street Journal, “ A new survey of 500 top colleges found that 10 percent of admissions officers acknowledged looking at social-networking sites to evaluate applicants. Of those colleges making use of the online information, 38 percent said that what they saw “negatively affected” their views of the applicant.” The article also stated that “Some admissions officers said they had rejected students because of material on the sites.”

It’s your choice if you want colleges to presume things about you while applying. Whether or not you believe colleges will actually look into your personal life, you should take all precautions and eliminate opportunities for judgment.

The Wessex Wire Page 7

by Lacy Tell ’11

Oxfords, combat boots and lace, oh my! This year around the halls of West Essex, you will be seeing fall and winter fashions that pay homage to old trends.

The “school look” is back with a classic shoe that gives a nod to the ‘50s.

Oxfords are leather shoes with lacing and a pointed toe. Today’s oxfords have changed slightly as they are also available as a slip on style. This simple shoe can be paired with most any style pants or skirts.

Combat boots are no longer just for the military. Girls are putting their own stamp on how to wear these fashion pieces. Some of these boots now even have lace details, which gives them a more updated and feminine look. These trend-setting boots are a twist on the past and go perfectly with either a mini dress or a pair of “jeggings.”

“Jeggings,” or denim leggings, became popular last year and stores from Urban Outfitters to the Gap are still having trouble keeping them on the shelves this season. Senior Sam Bernstein said, “I own too many pairs of ‘jeggings’ to count, they’re perfect and have the comfort of leggings but the look of jeans.”

Maxi dresses are the latest obsession since movie stars like Angelina Jolie and Nicole Richie appeared in

Halo “reaches” a new level

by Spencer Satz ’12

Photo courtesy of infosecwreck.com

magazines wearing them last summer.

They have an earthy feel and are very comfortable. Styles range from knit to woven and solids to prints. These dresses look cute in the fall and winter when paired with an oversized “grandpa sweater.” This ensemble gives this 60s style an updated look.

English teacher, Ms. Lynn Bailey, still has some of her clothes that she wore growing up in the 60s. “I still have a white peasant blouse shirt with embroidered flowers,” said Bailey. These pieces can be worn now and look just as trendy as they had before.

You can buy some of this season’s fashions at our local mall or in downtown Montclair. Stores such as Bloomingdale’s and Forever 21 carry all the cool designers and latest trend items. If you want even more selections, go to Manhattan’s bustling and hip Soho area, where there are loads of fashion forward stores and boutiques.

The new London import, Top Shop, is perpetually crowded with fashion forward shoppers from all over the world.

This store is a big hit with young adult shoppers and is filled with three floors of trendy and modestly priced clothes located on Broadway in Soho.

Clothing designers often look to the past for inspiration for new designs.

Teens are getting caught raiding their parents’ and grandparents’ closet for vintage treasures. This new fad is taking over.

After “Halo 3,” one of the greatest video games that revolutionized “Xbox 360,” many thought there would be no more “Halo” games made. Just when the world gave up hope waiting for a new edition of the series, “Halo Wars” came out. However, “Halo Wars” disappointed the millions who anticipated it to be a triumph, failing to create a successful strategy game for “Xbox 360.” More than a year after that, “Halo Reach” was released. It was vital that the “Halo” team revolutionized the gaming world once again.

“Halo Reach” was released Sept.

14, 2010, uniting the “Halo” community. After years of anticipating, “Halo” finally came through. “Halo Reach” offers new armor abilities for

a player. One can use a hologram, where the player spawns a dummy twin, a jetpack, active camo, sprint and armor lock, which makes the player invincible in replace of the loss of movement. Other new features include an improved Forge World, loadouts, nameplates and a new multiplayer game called Headhunter.

“Halo Reach” takes place in a futuristic realm in the year 2552. Reach itself is a planet similar to Earth, where the main military troops are stationed.

On the planet Reach, humanity is in a war with the alien covenant. Players control a member of an elite super soldier squad during the battle for the world of Reach. The military stops for no one in their effort to defeat their evil alien invaders. After playing the game for a day, there is no question that “Halo” is back on top.

October 2010

The Wessex Wire

Page 8

Need titles? A preview of some of the

by KJ Glenn ’11

This season, there are a number of new series and seasons hitting the major networks. From action to drama to comedy, the nightly slate of TV is great

Boardwalk Empire

“Boardwalk Empire” is a new original HBO series depicting life in Atlantic City during the Roaring ’20s, which was also the Prohibition period. The main character, Nucky Thompson (Steve Buscemi) is an Atlantic City gangster who rigged the Atlantic City government in order to bootleg liquor. However, this causes his right hand man, a young WWI veteran, Jimmy (Michael Pitt), to get into business with then small-time Al Capone (Stephen Graham), and a struggle for power ensues within Nucky’s ranks. As the federal government begins an investigation into the illegal liquor trade in Atlantic City, Nucky must decide whether to turn his business legitimate or take on the risk and possible rewards of the bootlegging. This HBO original, which airs on Sunday nights at 9 p.m., is a 1920s version of the Sopranos, and is sure to be a hit.

Photo courtesy of watchboardwalkempire.com Photo courtesy of watchsonsofanarchy.com

Sons of Anarchy

Viewers had high expectations for “Sons of Anarchy” after the first two seasons were beautifully written and acted. However, I am concerned after viewing the first two episodes of the third season. At the end of the second season, Jax Teller (Charlie Hunnam) had his three month old son kidnapped and brought to Northern Ireland by a member of the Irish Republican Army (IRA). Thus far, the season has been monotonous, with almost every scene revolving around the Sons trying to figure out their next move. Looking at the upcoming scenes, however, I am hopeful of a drastic turn. “Sons of Anarchy” plays on FX on Tuesdays at 10 p.m.

Hawaii Five-O “Hawaii Five-O,” starring James Caan, Alex O’Loughlin and Grace Park, is a remake of the 60s and 70s television series. A down and out cop, Steve McGarrett (O’Loughlin), and his sarcastic partner, Danny Williams (Caan), are picked to head an elite task force along with accused dirty cop Chin Ho Kelly (Daniel Dae Kim). The trio is involved in numerous shootouts and fight scenes in early episodes, which keeps the show light and relatively entertaining. The series has some potential, but the plot is not a masterpiece. Unless some serious twists are added, I don’t see this show going past a few seasons. “Hawaii Five-O” airs on Monday nights on CBS at 10 p.m.

Photo courtesy of mybroadwayvideo.info

Eastbound and Down “Eastbound and Down” features Kenny Powers (Danny McBride) as a major league baseball player who is down on his luck and facing bankruptcy. Through his hilarious attempts at finding love, money and a good time, Powers entertains and cracks up the audience with his crass humor and immature actions. Although the show can get boring due to an extremely poorly written plot, the jokes and pranks make up for it, and make “EBD” a quality television series. The show airs on HBO Sundays at 10:30 p.m.

Photo courtesy of iconvsicon.com

October 2010

The Wessex Wire

Page 9

best shows on television this year

by Nikki Maxman ’11

every evening. Here are a few of the more popular shows that warranted reviews. Read on to see which shows earned high rankings, and which you can skip.

Modern Family It is no accident that ABC’s “Modern Family” took in the most Emmy Awards this year, including Outstanding Comedy Series and Best Supporting Actor.

This “mockumentary” style show tells of three families who are all intertwined.

“Modern Family,” now in its second season, is the perfect show for anyone; it is based on lives of teenagers, parents, grandparents, gay parents, divorced parents, adoptive parents, Colombians…basically, anyone can relate to the show.

However, if there is one reason to watch this show, it is for its laugh-out-loud humor. I can’t say I hear of many shows where viewers are actually cracking up. But with this sitcom’s writing and casting, it should be considered one of the best currently on television. If you can give up any 30 minutes during the week, it should be to watch “Modern Family” on Wednesdays at 9 p.m.

Photo courtesy of tvfanatic.com

No Ordinary Family ABC launched another family based show this year, “No Ordinary Family.”

Although its plot is comparable to that of the successful superhero film “The Incredibles,” its ratings have been the total opposite. In this show, the Powells are blessed with all different supernatural powers including super strength, speed, sonic hearing and all of the other typical abilities you’d assume. All too predictable, each family member has their own power that they use to their advantage.

Similar to the hit-series “Lost,” this sci-fi series is tied to a plane crash. Unfortunately, it is also a parallel to the show “Heroes,” which was cancelled this year.

Although only in its first season, I don’t know how long it’ll last. Basically, if you are going to watch one show about a family, it shouldn’t be this one. The show can be watched on Tuesdays at 8 p.m.

Photo courtesy of impawards.com

Dancing with the Stars

Photo courtesy of wikimedia.org

In its 11th season, “Dancing With The Stars” still has its loyal fans. With people such as Brandy, “The Situation,” Bristol Palin and Audrina Patridge, the show remains a hit. It can get old after a while, though, the same thing happen in every episode. But with such great contestants this season, it is a bit more enjoyable.

Yet, the cheesy songs they use and the over the top costumes do not work in its favor. It is not the type of show to watch religiously, but more suitable to be watched only when bored or with your parents. Viewers can tune in to ABC at 8 p.m. on Mondays.

Glee Fox’s TV series “Glee” surpassed everyone’s expectations. Leading in Emmy nominations with 19, “Glee” and its personable characters are easy to fall in love with. A far less annoying version of “High School Musical,” this comedy has kids everywhere singing along to its covers of songs, both old and new. “Glee” has constant drama and catchy songs that will keep Gleeks tuned in every week on Tuesdays at 8 p.m. on Fox.

Photo courtesy of backseatcuddler.com

October 2010

The Wessex Wire

Be on the lookout for 3D features

by Shai Kartus ’11

As the story goes, when a child tires of his latest toy, he receives another one.

Filmmakers are assuming society is tired of regular movies and therefore feel the need to please us with a vast amount of three-dimensional (3D) films. But with all of these up and coming productions, are we now experiencing 3D overload?

Freshman Ariel Arzt said: “I love 3D movies. They make you feel like you’re living in a movie and it’s like nothing I’ve ever experienced before.”

Recently 3D films have been on the rise and are continuing to move throughout theaters. Some people definitely feel better about this than others. Three-dimensional movies like “Avatar,” which ranked first in 3D movie sales according to Box Office Mojo, prove that 3D movies can be successful. Some movies, however, which are not presented well, like “Call of the Wild” which ranked as the least successful out of 60 3D movies, according to Box Office Mojo, could be risky. Directors and viewers alike may be getting too caught up in the special effects that they are losing sight of what their movies are really supposed to be about.

For a 3D movie, you must pay more for a ticket in order to receive special 3D glasses.

The cost of the glasses adds a few dollars onto the average cost of a regular movie ticket and theatres make you purchase the glasses even if you already own a pair.

Senior Cristina Lombardi said, “When I went to the movies with my friends to see “Toy Story 3” in 3D, I only brought $10 and couldn’t believe I didn’t have enough money to get in.”

If 3D movies in many movie the theater weren’t enough, you can now have a personal 3D television in the comfort of your own home. In early March, Samsung unveiled their new 3D television experience called “Bring the Wonder of 3D Home”, and following closely behind were Sony and Panasonic. Costs of the televisions range from $1,699.99 to $5,999.00. Downsides to this 3D at home experience may include the price of the 3D glasses, which cost over $200 a piece. In October, Toshiba announced a 3D television that doesn’t require special glasses; so it looks like the glasses problem could be solved.

So once again, the child’s toy was replaced and society is at ease at least for now. Despite the way some may feel about the overwhelming amount of 3D movies and televisions being created, soon there may be no way out of the scene.

One wife, two wives, three wives, four

by Erica Lieb ’11

“Love should be multiplied, not divided,” says TLC’s newest reality star, Kody Brown. Brown, along with his three wives Meri Brown, Janelle Brown and Christine Brown and their 13 children combined have introduced their lifestyle to the public- one that is perceived as outdated and illegalpolygamy. This polygamist family is being aired on the must see disturbance and creep reality TV series of the season, “Sister Wives.”

Review The term “Sister Wives” is the name for a family of wives who are all married to the same man. Indeed, it is true. Forty-two year old Kody Brown from Salt Lake City, Utah has married and “fallen in love” three times in the past 16 years. As unconventional as it may seem, Kody and his wives falsely attempt to represent their lifestyle as intimate, sisterly and comforting. Meri, Janelle and Christine consider themselves to have an unbreakable familial bond although they all have marital and sexual relations with the same man.

Being in a polygamist marriage is natural for the three sister wives and Kody because three out of four of the clan grew up in a Mormon, polygamistic culture.

The Browns live in a community of all polygamists, so their children can attend a school with other polygamist families.

When the entire load of 13 children were introduced in the first episode, Kody introduced his children using phrases such as “Now these are two brothers from different mothers, and these are two sisters from the same mister.” I know, revolting, right?

If you thought this show couldn’t get any more disconcerting, you are mistaken. In the first episode of “Sister Wives”, which aired on Sunday, Sept.

26, Kody’s girlfriend and soon to be finance Robyn was introduced. As if the colossal family needed another wife!

Young, thin and beautiful Robyn has the whole package to potentially tear apart the supposedly functional family and lifestyle that currently exists in the Brown home.

Although the season has unfortunately come to an end because of the illegal martial investigation, if you want to get a good laugh and pat on the knee, watch the episodes online at www.TLC.discovery.com.

Page 10

Photo courtesy of bravotv.com

“The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills” can be seen on Bravo Thursdays at 10 p.m.

Housewives and their secret lives

by Lacy Tell ’11

A phenomenon began in May of 2006 when “The Real Housewives of Orange County” premiered on the Bravo network. The show has had several spin-offs, including The Real Housewives of New York, New Jersey, Atlanta, Washington, D.C. and the newest edition, Beverly Hills. Viewers are addicted to the drama filled lives of well-off women who spend their time shopping, being obsessed with their appearance and stabbing each other in the back.

Review “The Real Housewives of Orange County” follows five wealthy women in the gated community of Coto as they deal with economic troubles and martial stress. Viewers learn that their stereotypical glamorous lives are not always perfect.

The Orange County housewives were the first to show how life is not so glamorous for the upper class. Kimberly Bryant, a housewife from season one, was diagnosed with melanoma and Lauri Waring Peterson, a threetime divorcee also from season one, had a son, Josh, who spent time in a juvenile detention center and later went to jail. As the show moved from west to east across the United States, the housewives were not exempt from similar problems.

Two housewives that are now household names are Danielle Staub, from “The Real Housewives of New Jersey,” and Bethenny Frankel, from “The Real Housewives of New York.”

Staub, from Wayne, N.J., is a drama queen and her actions always keep

people on the edge of their seats. She has received a lot of media attention for her alleged arrests and alleged scandalous sex tape. Frankel, on the other hand, has a sharp personality and witty remarks that always keep her audiences laughing. Her notoriety from the show has led her to other venues. She has a successful business as a celebrity natural food chef and her own reality show, “Bethenny Getting Married?”

“The Real Housewives of New Jersey is my favorite spin-off because it is very entertaining with all its drama.

I truly love the women and get caught up in their weekly predicaments,” said senior Ally Menzel, who is an avid “housewives” viewer.

On the contrary, senior Melissa Kuscin said, “I watch the show truly to make fun of all the women.” Some people feel the show is staged because it is hard for them to believe that middle-aged women can act so childish.

The newest spin-off series, “The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills,” premiered on Oct.14. The housewives include Taylor Armstrong, Lisa Vanderpump, sisters Kyle and Kim Richards, Camille Grammer and Adrienne Maloof. All these housewives are somehow involved with the Hollywood scene. The Richard sisters are aunts to Nicky and Paris Hilton and have been acting since childhood.

Housewife Adrienne Maloof’s family owns the Sacramento Kings, a National Basketball Association (NBA) team and the Palms Casino Resort in Las Vegas.

From coast to coast, housewives are taking over the country and exposing their lives in America’s living rooms.

October 2010 Issue 1

Feature

The Wessex Wire Page 11

Albanese’s commitment to kids goes beyond the classroom

by Alex Schwartz ’12

West Essex High School legend Mr. Don Albanese is taking his commitment of helping children to a new level.

Inspired by his granddaughter, Albanese demonstrates his dedication to the students of West Essex both inside and outside of the classroom. On any given day, he can be found substitute teaching, tutoring students in math or coaching the tennis teams. But when his wife was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2001, Albanese decided to retire from teaching. Despite officially retiring almost 10 years ago, Albanese, now 68-years-old, shows no signs of slowing down.

After over 40 years in education, many wonder why Albanese continues to teach. Albanese said, “I like being active. I couldn’t stay at home and watch the grass grow all day.” But there is a deeper reason that he has remained active in the West Essex community for so

many years. Albanese’s granddaughter horses in order to straighten out her back and strengthen her Michelle was diagnosed with Rett Photo courtesy of Carlye Frost thighs. Because Michelle has a Syndrome at birth.

Due to her conpoor health insurance plan, Albadition, Michelle, nese uses most at eight-years-old of the money he cannot talk or makes to pay for write. Michelle her medical treatwears braces on ments, doctor apher feet at all times in order to keep her pointments and special food. He upright and allow even chips in for her to walk. DocPhoto Courtesy of Linda Albanese other expenses, tors hope this will such as the payextend the time Michelle poses with the horse that she rides until she will be ments on Mito strengthen her body. chelle’s house. required to use Since their a wheelchair.

According to Albanese, Michelle is a granddaughter’s diagnosis, Albanese remarkably happy child, unlike many and his wife Linda have devoted their other girls with Rett Syndrome. She has lives to helping Michelle and her family. recently started a new type of therapy They view this as their purpose in life and called Hippotherapy, where she rides are willing to help in any way possible.

Albanese, along with many others across the country, collected signatures last year in an effort to get Oprah Winfrey to air a segment on Rett Syndrome. Albanese himself collected over 5,000 signatures, which were then put into the pool of signatures at the Rett Syndrome Association branch in Chicago. According to Linda, the Oprah representatives have yet to accept the signatures. Oprah segment or not, the movement to increase awareness on Rett Syndrome is growing, with Rett Syndrome Association offices located in almost every major city in the United States.

The Albanese’s, are working tirelessly to promote world awareness for Rett Syndrome and to eventually find a cure. Throughout all of his hard work to aid his granddaughter, Albanese keeps an optimistic attitude and refuses to give up or lose hope. Albanese said, “Who knows, it may be hopeless, but you have to try.”

Red Mango offers a new twist on dessert Watch out! Senioritis is contagious

by Kelly Mosser ’11

Sometimes, dessert should be refreshing. It should leave you satisfied but not necessarily stuffed to the gills. It should be sweet without giving you a sugar rush. You should have the option to do fruit, instead of the typical caramel or hot fudge.

If you can relate to these sentiments, you should try out Red Mango on Church St. in Montclair.

The store prides itself on serving only 100 percent all-natural, probiotic frozen yogurt, which is a refreshing new change from many of the artificial frozen desserts out there. The yogurt is sweet and tangy and is offered in several flavors: Original, Tangomonium, Pomegranate and a seasonal fl avor (this season’s is Pumpkin Spice).

Customers can choose from a wide variety of toppings that fall into one of two categories: Fresh Fruit, or Fun and Crunchy. Fresh Fruit include strawberries, raspberries, pomegranate, mango and several others. One can also choose crunchy toppings such as Organic Granola, Fruity Pebbles, Cap’n Crunch or Ghirardelli Dark Chocolate.

West Essex Paraprofessional Gabby Cafone said, “The best part about Red Mango is the options. My favorite thing to order is Original Yogurt with

strawberries, graham crackers and chocolate chips.”

Red Mango also offers several types of smoothies as well as drinks like teas and chillers. They also offer Parfaits, which are made up of fresh fruit, granola and non-fat yogurt.

The franchise makes an effort to provide nutrition facts on its menus.

The health conscious would have no trouble finding out information about their desserts, and would likely feel good about their choices at Red Mango. A regular serving of yogurt only contains 220-260 calories, which of course would change depending upon which toppings one orders.

Junior Melissa Laible said: “I love that you can see the nutrition facts for your yogurt. It really makes you wonder what’s in desserts from other places.”

Red Mango is a franchise, and Montclair’s establishment opened in February of 2010. Since then, it has become a hot-spot for many local students and families, increasing the competition for nearby dessert shops such as Church Street’s Cupcakes Galore & More and Gelato Giulianna.

“It’s a new craze that’s definitely not overrated,” said senior Natalie Marcogliese. For those who would like a fun and healthy adjustment to their traditional fro-yo, Red Mango may be just the solution.

by Brittany Berman ’11

Senioritis: a disease caught by the graduating class. Symptoms include taking full advantage of doing nothing during your senior year and just enjoying your last high school moments. Most enter the school year with the theory that it will be a breeze. No big deal, just pass senior year. Get okay grades, show a little bit of participation in class and fly by under the radar. This is not the case, however, so don’t be fooled by the craze that has taken over the senior class of 2011.

I started off the 2010-2011 school year with more work than ever. When I’m not busy with hours of school work, I head onto commonapp.org, my most visited website. The process of applying to college includes writing endless supplements and filling out pages of paperwork. And I am not alone. I haven’t heard many seniors talk about how relaxed they are.

With all the stuff we have had to do, we have not had time to sit back and enjoy our senior year. Senior Alexa Rubinich said, “Usually students catch an early case of senioritis, although, it hasn’t hit me yet. The work load is ridiculous and the college process is so stressful for me, so it has been hard to enjoy my senior

year. Hopefully by the winter things will change and it will be a fun and memorable experience.”

Some seniors, however, have already caught the disease. Senior Jake Handler said, “Senioritis is contagious. I caught it right after last year’s finals. Life is great now, I just hope my habits don’t come back to haunt me in college.”

The first semester of senior year is more important than one might think. Although most think the grades don’t count, they definitely do. Colleges require a midyear report to check your progress and see that you are not slacking off.

First semester grades are also crucial when determining your GPA, which will also be sent to schools.

This might be the deciding factor for whether you get accepted or rejected off the wait list.

Senior Ben Minden said, “Senioritis is dangerous in the beginning of the year. The seniors need to stay focused until they get through their college applications and make it past midterms. After that, we’re on our way to senior service and can let our guard down a little.”

I am sure I will soon catch the “disease,” but right now I am way too overwhelmed and stressed with everything on my plate; I barely have time to write this article.

October 2010

Page 12

The Wessex Wire

Eleven new teachers join the W.E. staff

by Geordy Boveroux ’11

Ms. Cynthia Ni is the teacher of the new Chinese course and is proud to introduce Mandarin to West Essex. Ni, who learned Mandarin from speaking it at home and in Chinese school growing up said, “It’s really exciting! I’m thrilled to start a brand new program here.” Ni went to Bucknell, where she studied abroad in Shanghai and Beijing, and graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in International Relations; East Asia Studies. Ni formerly taught at Ranney School and Middlebury Montery Language Academy and still visits China every summer.

ing internship in the United Kingdom.

Ms. Caroline Blanchard Mr. Greg Aschoff recently joined the Math department to teach Geometry courses. Aschoff said, “I’m actually a West Essex graduate [class of ’06].” In addition to teaching, he also serves as the sports announcer for the school. The College of New Jersey graduate joined the West Essex staff after student teaching for a semester at Hunterdon Central High School.

Mr. Cristofer Slotoroff Ms. Deirdre Hoover is another new teacher in the English department.

Hoover who recently student taught at Nutley High School said, “I am happy to say that West Essex is the first school I’ve had the privilege to teach in.” Before teaching sophomore and senior English, she attended William Paterson University and received her Bachelor of Arts in English with a concentration in writing. When she’s not teaching, Hoover is an active volunteer for multiple animal shelters.

Ms. Cynthia Ni The English department welcomes Mr. Cristofer Slotoroff, a new teacher of freshman level CP, CPA and Honors courses. Slotoroff attended Fairleigh Dickinson University for his undergraduate and graduate degrees. Slotoroff said, “I like learning and playing new instruments.” He also enjoys surfing and collecting vinyl records.

Slotoroff student taught at Parsippany High School and also had a teach-

The new face in the Social Studies department is Mr. Christopher Rauch, a Gettysburg College graduate which Rauch said “is a great place to learn about American history.” While teaching World History and U.S. History I, he dreams “to participate in Olympic archery or curling.” While he holds a strong knowledge of history, he also has an interest in other languages. Rauch said, “I speak French and Pig Latin.”

Ms. Deirdre Hoover

Mr. Christopher Rauch Ms. Caroline Blanchard is another new addition to the Social Studies department. The new AP and Honors U.S. History teacher attended the University of Illinois-Urbana-Champaign for her undergraduate work and the University of Chicago for her graduate studies. Before becoming a teacher, Blanchard held various jobs.

Blanchard said, “I used to have my own company in which I specialized in teaching business and technical writing to corporate employees. I’m [also] a registered stock broker and worked in the industry for four years.”

Blanchard also considers herself an “avid reader” and an animal lover.

Mr. Greg Aschoff The Wessex Wire would also like to welcome Ms. Amenta, Ms. Beyel, Ms. Danckwerth, Mr. Lerner and Ms. Maus to our staff at West Essex.

Photos by Melissa Kuscin and Shai Kartus

by Brittany Berman ’11

At $4,207.05, the new West Essex Knight Mascot costume is probably the most expensive article of clothing any student will ever wear.

Superintendent Dr. Thomas McMahon, along with the Parent-Teacher Organization (PTO) both agreed that it was time to help boost school spirit and pride. They decided to create a school mascot to achieve this goal.

Vice Principal Ms. Juliann Hoebee said, “The mascot will help solidify school spirit and emphasize all of the positive energy in the building.”

The mascot hails all the way from Canada. Communications and Planning Officer, Carrie Sterrs said, “It

was ordered from the Ontario-based company Loonie Times and was custom-crafted for a truly unique look.” The PTO graciously paid for the entire mascot costume and accessories like a cooling and heating pack for extreme weathers.

The mascot will appear at all different kinds of events during this year and in years to come. Throughout the school year, it has already been seen motivating the crowd at all home football games, as well as many other sporting events. The mascot made an appearance at the pep rally and will continue to appear at other community events. The Knight also participated in the first Knight’s Weekend on Sept. 10-11.

Tryouts for the mascot were held during the first week of school. Sterrs said, “Three students have been selected, to make scheduling easier.

We’re confident that these students will be able to get students, staff and event attendees excited about our teams and our district as a whole.”

An anonymous student who dressed as the mascot during the fall season said, “Being the mascot was an experience. It was cool to put the mascot costume on until it started to get extremely hot in there.”

Hoebee said, “The mascot is a tangible item that kids can identify with. The school has so much good, and the mascot is a way to represent all of that good.”

Photo courtesy of Ms. Carrie Sterrs

West Essex welcomes mascot to home events

The new mascot gets pumped up for the sports season.

October 2010

The Wessex Wire

Page 13

Find the right youth group for you

by Shai Kartus ’11

After a long day at school, everyone has that one thing they do to relieve their stress. Some people play sports, some watch television or go on the computer and others go out with friends. You can never have too many choices of what to do in your spare time, so here’s a new idea–youth groups. Youth groups are a great way to meet new people, take your mind off of school, get involved in the community and learn more about your religion and beliefs. Here are popular youth groups in our area to consider: St. Thomas More Youth Group: This group consists of middle and high school students who meet every Wednesday night from 7-9 p.m. at St. Thomas More Church in Fairfield.

They participate in many community service activities such as the Light the Night Cancer Walk and Holiday Cheer/Carols for nursing home residents. The youth group is led by Director Craig Jandoli along with assistant Youth Ministers Fred Giordano and our own Mrs. Dana Bartello. There are many West Essex students involved and Montville students as well. Bartello said, “We welcome all youth no matter what religious background, but our primary focus is Catholicism.”

USY&TaSTY: United Synagogue Youth (USY) is a youth group that brings conservative Jewish teens from across the country closer to Judaism. One New Jersey chapter of USY centered in West

Caldwell at Congregation Agudath Israel. USY provides opportunities to connect with other teenagers and also do community service. Temple Shalom Temple Youth (TaSTY) is another youth group located in Cedar Grove.

TaSTY is a reform group and holds retreats, theme night events and social action activities. Both of these groups consist of high school students.

4:12 Youth Group at The Crossing Church: The Crossing Church, with a Born Again Christian affiliation, in Livingston has a youth group of its very own called 412. The name came from the Bible verse “1 Timothy 4:12.”

This name encourages youth to not be looked down upon because they are young and instead to set an example for others. This group consists of kids from the West Essex sending districts, Livingston and West Orange. Every Friday night the group meets at the church and has a night full of Bible study, games and more. Senior Emily Chicola said, “I enjoy going because it gives me the chance to learn about how to set an example for others and how to reach out to other kids.” The group consists of middle and high school students.

Just remember, sports, television, facebook and other activities aren’t the only ways to spend your free time. Youth groups are great because not only are you constantly having fun with your friends and meeting new people but you are also volunteering and making a difference in your community.

Cartoon by Madi Berse

Having trouble picking out a Halloween costume? Be the cast of “Jersey Shore” with your friends and have a Happy Halloween!

Photo by Melissa Kuscin Students line up in the new Boar’s Head sandwhich shop in the cafeteria.

New cafeteria is a success

by Tom Paranzine ’11

The start of the school year has brought many changes to West Essex. Once again, West Essex has gone above and beyond and has updated our cafeteria. A new lunch service has spiced up the cafeteria and students are excited about the changes.

The lunchroom was touched up in a few areas. The walls have been painted a muted yellow, which brings a warm feel to the lunchroom as the light illuminates the senior side of the cafeteria. Also, a nice floor wax was completed over the summer, making the room look extremely shiny and clean.

So far, Pomptonian, the new lunch service, has been keeping the cafeteria in good working order. The lines have been moving quickly at the food window and at the cash register. Also, students have not had to wait for hot food to come out; the lunch service has had perfect timing.

Forte’s Pizza has also been brought into the West Essex cafeteria this year. Senior Joe Gerish said, “It is amazing that I can taste the greatness of Forte’s Pizza at school.” The only downside to the Forte’s pizza is it is not a fresh as a slice right out of the oven at the one and only.

After a year long hiatus, the sandwich station is back! A new Boar’s Head sandwich shop has opened in the cafeteria. Students are still given the option of the premade sandwiches, but now they can customize their own. In the new deli you can choose the type of lunchmeat, bread, toppings and dressing that you prefer. Senior Kurtis

Tinfow said, “The roast beef sandwich is delicious, however, you need to order double meat on it.”

Fried to the perfect crispiness and not dried out, the chicken tenders are a great choice when navigating the lunchroom.

Senior Joe Mattarazzo said, “I personally enjoy making a buffalo chicken sandwich on a bagel.”

Pomptonian has done a great job keeping prices relatively low. However, there have been a few changes in select items. For example, bagels are now up to a whopping $1.25 and $0.25 for each condiment. Fries are on the rise to an additional $0.25 per serving. Also, the pizza is $1.75 a slice and strombolis are a bit pricy at about $3.00 a piece. However, these prices are understandable due to Forte’s delivery charge.

Despite the improvements, there are a few items on the menu that seem to be lacking in quality. The French fries have fallen off the charts a bit. Many students feel that the fries are a not as crispy or tasty as they would prefer. Senior Carmella Fede said, “ The new fries are a bit salty for me.”

But all in all the new lunch service has improved the quality of food and service in the school cafeteria.

The cafeteria no longer feels like just another school cafeteria, with watery mashed potatoes, greasy cheeseburgers and a carton of milk. The cafeteria now feels almost like a college dining hall. Overall, this year’s lunchroom choices far exceeds the food options from the past two years.

West Essex has made the lunchroom scene a great success.

October 2010

The Wessex Wire

Page 14

FH looks to recapture state title Girls tennis captures state section

by Jackie Martorana ’11

It is no secret that at West Essex, the field hockey team dominates the athletic scene. They are known throughout the state for their success, dedication and consistency.

After having won four consecutive state titles, the Knights finished their 2009 season with a devastating loss to Madison in the semi-final round of the state tournament. Now that six seniors have graduated, the 2010 team is quite a different one than we have seen in previous years.

The starting team is comprised mostly of juniors, led by forwards Captain Natalie Cafone, Alexis Miller and midfielder Adrianna Farina. Senior Captains Kristen McClain and Casey Higgins continue to be strong contributors, with senior Kayleigh Thies supporting at midfield. Senior Captain Kelly Mosser rounds out the roster in goal.

Despite the changes, the team has not fallen short of expectations.

The girls got off to a fantastic start, going undefeated at 11-0. On Oct. 14, they faced what they predicted

to be one of their toughest competitors, Oak Knoll, at home. Both teams came into the game undefeated, with Oak Knoll ranked sixth in the state and West Essex ranked seventh. The game was broken open by two Oak Knoll goals in the second half, after the completion of a scoreless fi rst half. West Essex came back with two goals of their own, scoring the second goal with mere minutes left on the clock. Amidst the downpour of rain, the game went into overtime, with Oak Knoll finally scoring the winning goal.

Despite the loss, they are still on the road to a conference title and are anticipating the beginning of the state tournament, where they will face tough teams such as Summit and Bridgewater.

McClain said, “Everyone thought this year would be a tough transition, but that is not the case at all. If anything, it has been positive, as it has allowed many younger players to step up and assume more responsible roles. This team works well together and we are extremely determined to take back the state title.”

by Victoria Agrifolio ’14

Upon looking at the girls tennis team’s in-conference record, one would undoubtedly consider them an underdog in the state tournament. Yet, they were able to surpass expectations and earn the title of Group II Section II State Champions.

On the road to the title, the girls stood victorious over Fort Lee in a crushing 5-0 first round win. On Oct. 12, West Essex played McNair and once again delivered another 5-0 victory. In the next round against rival Caldwell, the girls edged out the Chiefs, 3-2, earning a spot in the state section final.

In the championship round on Oct. 18, West Essex won a nail biting 3-2 victory over Madison. Two matches went into tie-breakers, including second singles, Niki Entin and first doubles, Blair Shulman and Lynnli Wang. Seniors Carly Agrifolio and Lacy Tell were also contributors to

the win.

By facing difficult teams in their conference, the Knights felt they were better prepared for what they would see during states.

Coach Barbara Bruchac said, “We play in the top tier of four in the Super Essex Conference. It includes five of the top twenty teams in our state, such as Milburn, Livingston, Newark Academy, Montclair and Columbia.

We are the only Group II school in this section.”

After winning states, the team moved on to play Governor Livingston, who also won their section championship.

They lost in a sweeping 5-0 defeat.

Last year, the girls were beaten in the final round of the state tournament. For the seniors, their final year has brought them to their ultimate goal. Prior to this year, the girls tennis team had not won a state championship since 1994, making the 2010 team a part of West Essex history.

Photo courtesy of Amanda Alhout The tennis team gathers on the court after their 3-2 win over Madison, clinching the Group II Section II State Championship title.

Soccer makes postseason push

by Taylor Delehanty ’11

Sophomore Matt Garvey, a consistent contributor for the boys soccer team, boots the ball during warm-ups before a home game.

The girls varsity soccer team has gotten off to a shaky start in 2010, with a record of 6-7. Even so, Coaches Mr. Bryan McNaught and Ms. Heather Hemmer are proud of the way the girls have played throughout the season.

McNaught said, “There have been some definite highlights, like beating Millburn 3-2 at their place and knocking Caldwell out of the county tournament with a 2-1 win, but there are also some games I know the girls would want to play again. The team is headed in the right direction and has some great moments and great opportunities ahead of them.”

Senior Captain Melissa Kuscin and junior Captain Shannon White lead the young team, which has six freshmen and only one senior. Kuscin said, “Even though we have a very young team, we still expect to go far in states and I am proud of how our team has

worked together.” They beat Caldwell in the first round of the county tournament 2-1, but were later defeated by Livingston in the quarterfinals, ending their county run The boys varsity soccer team has had a successful 2010 season, currently maintaining an 8-5-1 record.

They are nearing the end of the regular season and preparing to make a postseason push. Coach Mr. Mike Giampapa has taken them through a tough but rewarding season. They are led by senior Captains Mike Pezzuti, Joe Fusco and Pat Farrell.

They were knocked out of the county tournament by Nutley, 2-1, when the game came down to a shootout.

Their next upcoming game is against Millburn, one of the last regular season games before the state tournament begins. Pezzuti said, “I am happy with the way our team has played throughout the regular season and hope to go far in states.”

October 2010

The Wessex Wire

Page 15

XC teams on track for success Halladay unhittable in postseason debut country team is also on their way to a successful season. The team is led by top The cross country teams have entered runners senior Kristi Kovats and juniors Jamie Ianuzzi, Ellen the 2010 season with O’Neil and Alexa their goals set high Perillo. The girls and ready to run. They are having a solid worked hard over the season and are runsummer in order to ning with excellent enter this season in consistency. tip-top shape.

The girls team The boys cross also has very high country team has a expectations for record of 6-6. The this season. Their squad is led by segoals are to win nior John Martinez, both the county junior Mat Mitchell and conference and freshman Dan championships, as Kenny. There is no well as to qualify lack of leadership with for the state meets.

12 seniors on their With the speed of roster. If the team can the Knights top maintain consistent Photo by Griffin Glenn runners, these apvictories through the Cross country runners senior Jon pear to be manupcoming rounds, they will be on the road to Martinez and sophomore Jonah Gantz ageable goals. train in preparation for their postseason.

Kovats said, the state champion“We have been runship meet.

Head Coach Mr. Leon Samuels has set ning very well this year and I hope we will the bar high for the boys team this season. continue to run well as the season closes Samuels said, “Our goals this year are to and the postseason begins.”

Both the boys and girls cross country win the conference and county championships and to have a good showing in teams headed to Jackson, N.J. to Six Flags Amusement Park to run in the Six the states.”

The team has suffered the loss of star Flags Safari Invitational. The combined runner senior Pat Dyer to a lingering ham- efforts of both teams earned West Essstring injury. Dyer has been an integral sex 14th place. This was an outstanding part of the team since his sophomore year performance, ranking them high among and would really give the extra boost the over 200 teams that participated in the team needs to achieve their goals. the meet.

Both the girls and boys teams are on Dyer said, “I am playing it on the safe side. I don’t want to return too soon and pace for wrapping up their seasons successfully and their postseason aspirareinjure it.”

With a record of 6-5, the girls cross tions are within reach.

by Tom Paranzine ’11

by Paul Haramis ’12

The year of the pitcher continued on Oct. 6 at Citizens Bank Park in Philadelphia. Game 1 of the 2010 National League Division Series (NLDS) will be forever remembered for Philadelphia Phillies’ starting pitcher Roy Halladay’s postseason debut and as the second no-hitter in postseason history.

Halladay joined Don Larsen (who pitched a perfect game in Game 5 of the 1956 World Series) as the only two pitchers to ever throw no-hitters in postseason play. A fifth-inning walk to Cincinnati Reds’ outfielder Jay Bruce was the only mistake that kept Halladay from pitching

a perfect game. When asked about the performance, Halladay told the Washington Post, “It’s hard to explain, but pitching a game like that – being able to win the game comes first.

Once it ends, it’s a little bit surreal to know some of that historical stuff.”

The Phillies would go on to sweep the Reds 3-0 in the NLDS, later losing the National League Championship Series (NLCS) to the Giants, 4-2. Halladay finished the postseason with a record of 2-1, a 2.45 Earned Run Average (ERA) and 20 strikeouts. Halladay said to ESPN, “You find out what you’re made of.

You never expect it to be easy.” It’s hard to believe just how easy he made his postseason debut look.

Photo courtesy of dugger1981.wordpress.com Philadelphia Phillies’ pitcher Roy Halladay makes his playoff debut, throwing the first postseason no-hitter since Don Larsen in 1956.

Volleyball strives to live up to 2009 team

by Regina Walter ’13

The West Essex girls volleyball team, now 10-10, has had a tough time keeping up with the raised competition this season. The girls face much tougher opponents this year, due to the success of the 2009 squad.

There are many fresh faces on the court in 2010, after graduating five starting members from last season’s roster. The new starting team consists of three sophomores, one junior and two seniors, who have yet to unite due to their lack of experience.

Confident in her team, sophomore outside hitter Schuyler Gardner said, “We are a very young team. With more time, we’ll get better and work together more. Learning from our mistakes only makes us better.”

After a win over West Orange in their first county match, the Knights

began to struggle. On Oct. 8, the girls played Caldwell for their second county match. Caldwell’s dominance overwhelmed the Knights. The Chiefs won the first set by a score of 25-13 and took the second set by a score of 25-4. Following the loss, Coach Andrea Mondadori said, “Moving forward, the state cut off is Oct. 20.

We have five games left. We have to win the next three out of five games.

If not, the season’s over after Nov. 1.”

Senior Captain Alexis Seidel pulled her team together to grab a win against Nutley on October 11. Despite a rocky start against Millburn, the girls pulled out another win. Mahwah’s power put an end to the knights winning streak on Oct. 14. The loss left the Knights determined to win the next match in order to qualify for states. The girls stepped up to the challenge, defeating West Orange to gain their spot in the state tournament, which will begin in November.

October 2010 Issue 1

The Wessex Wire Page 16

Player profiles: Senior edition

Knights start off slow, but bounce back After two hard-fought losses, the West Essex football team earned five straight decisive victories to post a respectable 5-2 record.

The Knights started their new season with high expectations. This year they returned 12 starters, led by senior Captains Tyler Fossetta, Grant McGuire, Kyle Kitchin and Mike D’Annunzio.

In their season opener, Delbarton struck first to gain a 7-0 lead in the first quarter. The Knights’ offense looked out of sync, scoring their first and only touchdown in the second quarter on a two-yard run by junior running back Stephen O’Neill. West Essex’s defense kept the game tied until the third quarter, when Delbarton scored the winning touchdown. The Knights were defeated 14-7.

The Knights took another tough loss to their cross-town rival, Caldwell, on Sept. 17. Caldwell scored a touchdown on their opening drive, but the Knights responded with an 18-yard touchdown pass from quarterback Fossetta to senior wide receiver Frank Marotti.

Caldwell then scored two consecutive touchdowns to take a 20-7 lead. The Knights’ offense answered back with a touchdown run from Fossetta, pulling them within six points. In the fourth quarter, Caldwell kicked a field goal and went up nine points to seal the

by Nikki Maxman ’11

Photo courtesy of Kristi Kovats

by Griffin Glenn ’13

victory. The final score was 23-14 in favor of Caldwell.

After losing their first two games, the Knights won four straight games against Belleville, Millburn, Nutley and Shabazz. The Knights defeated Belleville and Millburn in definitive fashion, outscoring Belleville 35-15 and Millburn 40-0.

West Essex then played Nutley, a highly anticipated game after the Knights’ 31-24 victory in the matchup the previous year. The Knights crushed the undefeated Raiders, who were favored by ten points, 28-0. Senior running back Mike Mitchell said, “We know how talented we are and what we are capable of. We really came together and played a great game.”

On Oct. 15, the Knights defeated Shabazz 41-6. Six different players scored and junior running backs DJ Hamker and Stephen O’Neill both rushed for over 100 yards.

The Knights faced off against Newark East Side at home on Oct. 22. After the first half, the Knights went into the locker room with the lead 24-20. In the second half, they exploded for 13 points and the defense buckled down to hold the lead. East Side was beaten 37-20 to give the Knights their fifth win of the season. West Essex wraps up their regular season with an away game at Columbia High School and their final home game against Barringer.

Photo by Melissa Kuscin

Senior kicker Rob Drumm kicks-off as the football team battles through a tough 23-14 loss to the Caldwell Chiefs on Sept. 17.

Photo courtesy of Jeff Steibold/The Caldwell’s Patch

Warren Westura/The Caldwells Patch

Kristi Kovats: Girls Cross Country A senior and first-year member of the cross-country team, Kovats wishes she’d been running on the squad all four years of high school.

Kovats said, “I joined because I wasn’t playing soccer anymore…and because Mr. Samuels is the coach.”

She claims to be in the best shape of her life and says that even the hard practices do not discourage her because of her good physical condition. For only a first year member, she has had an exceptional season.

With her best time at 23:52 to date, her goal is to break 23 minutes. The fastest girl’s time on the West Essex roster this season is 23:26, so Kovats is a top runner for our school.

She consistently places either 1st or 2nd among West Essex girls in each meet. Kovats said, “Our girls team is the best it has been in 40 years so hopefully we can do well in states this year.” Her favorite part of being on the team was getting to know her teammates so well.

Mike Pezzuti: Boys Soccer Pezzuti started playing soccer when he was six years old and is now the captain of the West Essex Varsity Soccer team. The midfielder/defender made the varsity squad as a sophomore and also plays for the Parsippany Soccer Club. As a junior, Pezzuti made First Team All-Conference. Pezzuti said, “I love being able to play the sport every day and getting to play with my teammates. I also love playing games against our rival schools.” The team is currently 8-5-1, losing most games by only one goal. Pezzuti is a leading scorer for the Knights, with seven goals and nine assists – unprecedented for someone playing primarily in the midfield and backfield. Pezzuti plans to continue playing soccer next year in college.