The Wessex Wire (November 2005)

“Does it bother you that...” with Benjamin Chase Elberg ......p. 8

Vol. XLV No.1

Exclusive Wire Interview with Cindy Sheehan ................................... p. 10

Field Hockey Wins ..................p. 17 Kim goes Northwestern ..............p. 19

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

November 2005

To go or not to go Tulane

by Jon Kartus ‘06 photo courtesy of Jon Kartus

A

s senior acceptances trickle in, senior Michael Gelberg is staring at a Tulane University admissions letter.

Originally attracted to the city of New Orleans and Tulane’s “many opportunities, especially along the business track,” Gelberg now believes that Tulane and the city “just won’t be the same.”

Once one of his top college choices, Tulane has almost dropped off his list. (continued on page 6)

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wessexwessex wire - wire-january november 20052004

news

Supreme Court Picks : How much do students know about judicial noms?

“Experience as a judge on the court [would help] them as party, only eight students who answered the survey identified her as a conservative, with five calling her a liberal, two a judge in the future,” said one of the students who objected

by Michael McConnell ‘07 of them after they mentioned her close political connection to Miers.

However, not one student surveyed knew that former to the President.

Chief Justice Rehnquist had never served as a judge before Prior toAlito’s nomination, twenty-nine students objected West Caldwell resident Samuel Alito is no stranger to thirty-seven out of a hundred-fifteen students atWest Essex to nominating a potential Supreme Court Justice who is not he was named to the Supreme Court. In fact, forty Suwho identified him as the new Supreme Court nominee in a currently a judge, as Bush did with Miers, and eleven thought preme Court justices, including Roosevelt’s nomination of Sen. Hugo Black, had never served on a previous court. it“allright.” recent Wessex Wire survey.

Current events teacher Nancy RandazzaEighteen out of twenty-three survey responFord called the results of the Wessex Wire dents who knew enough to comment say they survey“appalling.”Asateacher,shedoesn’t supportAlito,whileonlyfivedon’t.SeniorDave know how she “could even begin to inCampbell, one of the eighteen inAlito’s corner, crease students’ knowledge or concern.” called him “highly qualified because he has arRandazza-Ford is right to be worried. Of gued nine cases [in front of the Supreme Court] the students surveyed, only four expressed and [because he] is a strong conservative.” knowledge of where the court would be if JuniorDanielAbdel,whoopposedthenomiMiershadbeenconfirmedwithallfoursaynation believes that “Bush [is] just picking a ingconservative. fightwithDemocrats”bynominatingAlito.

Whereas eighteen students opposed GivenAlito’s local residential status, students Miers’s nomination, only four supported appearedtoidentifyhimmorereadilythanboth her. One student objected to her simply Harriet Miers, who withdrew her nomination, because she appears to be “old and outand John Roberts, Bush’s appointment to the photo courtesy of www.illinoisfamily.org photo courtesy of www.cnn.com dated.” position of Chief Justice of the Supreme Court.

Regarding the question as to whether or Fifteen out of a hundred-fifteen West Samuel Alito (right) was identified by eighteen more students than Chief Justice John Roberts (left), but a majority of students had never heard of either. not it’s appropriate to nominate the Essex students surveyed could president’s personal White House counaccurately identify both Roberts and Miers, sel to the Supreme Court, a majority of althoughsixmorestudentscouldidentifyonly the forty who answered the question said Roberts. no, while only five said yes. Others didn’t RegardingthequestionastohowAlitowill even address the question. One student rule in the upcoming Roe v. Wade related • 13% Could identify both John Roberts and Harriet Miers believes that “[Bush] would just be hiring cases that may appear in front of the Su- • 19% Could identify John Roberts one of his friends fromTexas.” preme Court, only four of the seven students • 14% Could identify Harriet Miers Although students care about the issues who knew enough to answer the question • 18% Supports Harriet Miers of abortion, gay marriage, the use of the believe that he will overturn Roe v. Wade.

• 82% Don’t Support Miers phrase “under God” in the Pledge ofAlAs for why so few students are aware of • 62% Believe that Miers is conservative legiance, assisted suicide, and personal thejudicialnomineeswhocouldsignificantly • 38% Believe that Miers is liberal safety and security, ten students wrote exchange the culture in which they live, current • 0% Could name a Supreme Court Justice who was not formerly a judge pressed concern regarding issues that events teacherAnthony Janish believes that • 11% Believe it’s appropriate for Bush to nominate personal counsel have nothing to do with the Supreme “students don’t think politics affect them.”

• 89% Believe it’s not appropriate for Bush to nominate a personal counsel Court, such as social security, foreign afOn the question of whereAlito stands po• 40% Believe that there’s a chance Roe v.

Wade will be overturned fairs, and the war in Iraq. litically, eighteen students identified him as a • 60% Believe that Roe v.

Wade will not be overturned “[Students] should have an idea of the conservativewhileonecalledhimliberal,and • 55% Believe in judicial restraint and 45% Do not believe in judicial restraint cases that go before the court; the juniors three admitted to understanding the fight • 29% Know that Alito lives in NJ and seniors learn this in US history one,” coming up over this nomination. One of the said Ford. “This lack of knowledge [re• 32% Know to what was he nominated students, junior Jerry Shikhman believes that garding] the way government works is • 78% Support Alito and 22% Don’t support Alito “Democrats in Congress think thatAlito is unacceptable,” she added.

• 95% Know that Alito is politically conservative and 5 % believe him to be liberal toofarontheright,”althoughJanishobserved “In a few years they may be in charge of • 57% Believe he would vote to overturn Roe v. Wade and 43% believe he won’t that “some [students] may see no difference [the government],” said Ford, adding, between a Democrat and a Republican.”

• 3% Understand that a fight may be coming up over Alito’s nomination “how will they know if it is working, if In fact, while Miers’s conservatism had they don’t know how it works.” beencalledintoquestionbymanyinherown Survey conducted by Michael McConnell

Supreme Court Survey Results

wessexwessex wire - wire-january november 20052004 news 3 Board approves parking: students say “it’s about time”

by Ben Elberg ‘06

It’s about time, or so believes senior Michael Lisa. “At least now we have parking,” he said, regarding seniors’ complaints that they “have virtually no privileges.”

Parking for seniors, which was once out of the question, officially became a reality as a result of the October 10 th board meeting.

Student Council President Doug Mead is the main reason Principal Barbara Longo and Business Administrator and Board Secretary Daniel Borgo forwarded their support to Superintendent Dr. Donald Merachnik and the board, who approved the parking plan on October 10.

“When I was a sophomore, seniors had about a good half of the year to park on campus,” said Lisa, who added that parking is “one of the greatest things to happen” to West Essex seniors in a really long time because they’ve had nothing to look forward to.

“When the parents were parking [in the senior lot] for Back to School Night, I went into [Longo’s] office and told her that [it was] unacceptable for parents to park there and not seniors,” said Mead.

Longo agreed with Mead.

“The lot has been used for football games all year long,” said Longo.

“We realized that the lot was very usable, and on Back to School Night I thought, ‘Why not use the lot everyday?’”

S e n i o r Wi l l Storey wondered why seniors “couldn’t park earlier,” but added photo by Ben Elberg that he realized “it could have been The 48 parking spots that are currently open to seniors are just the beginning. Student w o r s e : s e n i o r s council president Doug Mead hopes to “try to get the entire lot until construction starts might not have had again.” parking at all.”

After Back to School Night “ev- go down,” said Longo. “It can only academically and behaviorally, acerything just fell into place,” ac- go up if the construction workers cording to Longo.

In order to participate in the lotdon’t need the whole lot.” cording to Longo.

“Once we start to get it rolling tery, seniors had to have no failing “ B o t h M r. B o rg o a n d D r. [smoothly], we’re going to try to get grades, as well as a valid driver’s liMerachnik had no problem with the parking proposal, and neither did the entire lot until construction starts cense.

Senior driver Alex Bass is very exthe Board of Education,” Longo said. again,” said Mead.

For the forty-eight spots that are cited about the “correction” of what Although administrators reinstated senior parking, the lot is not being offered, administrators have decided he called “a great travesty,” but feels used in its entirety. Only forty-eight on a rotation, guaranteeing each stu- that it is still an “injustice inflicting the spots have been designated for se- dent a spot for at least one part of student body” because “seniors can only park for a short amount of time, niors to begin with, according to the year.

In order to drive, however, students and are forced to work with others Longo.

“That number [48 spots] will not must meet nine requirements, both to carpool.”

“No way to tell for sure” when construction will be done

by Jaime Blaustein ‘07

Complaints about school building conditions have Jackie Zeller and her junior friends “fed up.”

In the wake of stalled construction, Zeller and her friends have come to the realization that the

“Construction companies are hesitant to commit to this project after the Tricon debacle.”

- School Business Administrator and Board Secretary Dan Borgo

improvements in facilities they have been patiently waiting for will not be completed in the near future.

“I was looking forward to having ceilings at some point during my high school career,” said junior Jared Davidson. “It looks like that will not be completed before I leave here.”

At this point, nobody knows for sure when construction will resume, according to Principal Barbara Longo. She has been told from people in the business that many times clients “hire back the old company and the bonding company oversees it.” However, Longo has no knowledge of whether or not West Essex will follow suit.

The responsibility to hire a new construction company falls on SafeCo., a bonding company which hires and schedules other companies that specialize in specific aspects of construction,

with the construction but who owns a construclike roofing and landscaping.

Because of the clause in the contract between tion company himself, and found out about the SafeCo. and West Essex, which states that it is situation with Tricon.

The taxpayers who voted and paid for the imliable, SafeCo. is currently negotiating with possible candidates to replace Tricon, but it “does provements so that their children could benefit not appear close to reaching a deal” because may not get their wish, according to Costanza, “construction companies are hesitant to com- since their children will most likely be out of mit to this project after the Tricon debacle,” school when the renovations are complete.

“Sometimes the architect does a poor job on according to School Business Administrathe plans or has certain schedules that are just tor and Board Secretary Dan Borgo.

Junior Dan Atkins, however, thinks that too aggressive,” said Costanza. In this particuthe administration should be working faster lar instance, however, Tricon just “didn’t work to “come to an agreement with a construc- fast enough,” according to Longo.

Additionally, because of uncertainty as to tion company, because all of this [lack of construction] is at the expense of the stu- when construction would resume and whether or not machinery would occupy spaces in front dents.”

On a positive note, equipment in which of school, administrators did not resume senior the board of education had invested thousands parking until October 24. As a result, seniors of dollars, like smart boards and computers, and could not drive to school and became equally “fed up with the lack which were unavailable for use of rights,” according last year in some classrooms beto Zeller. That situacause electrical outlets did not “I was looking forward to having tion, however, has work, are now functional. ceilings at some point during my now been resolved.

Algebra teacher Krista De high school career.

It looks like that Borgo also beLaura, for instance, who is fiwill not be completed before I leave lieves the construcnally able to use the Smart here.” tion will be comBoard in her classroom, has junior Jared Davidson pleted approxifound it “extremely helpful” to mately six months teach lessons with. after the new conThe halt in construction is a restruction company is on sight, but there “is no sult of the firing of Tricon, the General Contractor who started the work on West Essex. way to tell for sure.”

For now, students can only learn to cope with The firing was a result of Tricon “not performing with respect to the specifications as far as the sub par conditions and hope that the chaos target dates,” according to construction com- is resolved soon, according to junior Samir pany owner Barry Costanza, who is not involved Patel.

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wessexwessex wire - wire-january november 20052004

news

Putting a new look on an old design

by Steve Monin ‘07

Electronic radio errors, although they pose no immediate safety issue, have sparked an upcoming recall of the seven new school buses at West Essex, according to Mrs. Carol Foster who drives one of the afternoon late buses.

Even though the radio malfunction does not directly affect the safety of the bus or the passengers, it makes coordination almost impossible, added Foster. “Without radio communication, a bus that breaks down cannot call for help,” Foster said.

If the communication problems, which leave the buses unable to contact the bus station in case of emergency need to be fixed, the buses may be sidelined “any day now,” either during a weekend or over a break so as not to interfere with weekday school busing, according to Foster.

For junior Brian Jacobsen, the sidelining of buses won’t make much of a difference. “I think the outside looks cool, but besides that it’s just like the old bus, and it doesn’t matter to me one bit if my bus is the new one or the old one,” Jacobsen said.

Although the new bus “looks really sweet from the outside,” the interior hasn’t changed, according to eighth grader Tim Naspo. “The inside still has no leg room or space to put your bag,” he said.

“The aisles are hard to get through with two bags and

photo courtesy of c2thefuture.com

The new Saf-T-Liner C2 is equipped with larger emergency windows, safer bumpers, and larger front window, allowing for increased visibility for the driver.

everyone’s legs are in the aisle because there’s no room for them in front of the seats,” Naspo added.

Naspo is not alone in this opinion. “I hate sitting on my backpack or sports bag because they take up the whole seat,” said freshman Sean Lind. “The buses should have more leg room with under-seat Saf-T-Liner storage,” he added.

Thomas Built Buses, the creThe Saf-T-Liner got its name because of the addition of new safety ator of the new school buses, features, including increased visibility for the driver, larger emergency aimed to make the vehicle windows, and safer bumpers on both the front and rear, according to “safer, stronger, more comThomas Built Buses, the creator of the Saf-T-Liner C2. Foster has little fortable and more efficient,” appreciation. according to the Thomas The Saf-T-Liner C2 has enhanced body styling for improved aesthetics Built Buses website. Student and a more modern body style, according to Thomas Built Buses. North riders, however, have barely Caldwell Bus Driver Jim Earl thinks that the bus is perhaps a little too noticed the improvements, modern. “I only rode the new one once, but I like my trusty old bus,” especially the increased comEarl said. “The new bus feels like I’m in a spaceship.” fort, according to a random While it might be clear that Thomas Built Buses did not meet its expecsurvey. tations in making the Saf-T-Liner C2, in light of the impending electronic Everyone on the late-bus, radio error recall, it does stand out in the bus yard, according to Foster. which included thirteen stuHowever, little more can be admired rather than the exterior design. The dents from both the senior Saf-T-Liner C2 is “not nearly as good” as expected to be, but the “good and junior high schools, all intentions” of creating a better bus are there, Foster said. described it as uncomfortable. Six out of the thirteen

called the ride “smoother,” according to the survey data. Eight of thirteen said they felt safer.

But comfort is just what students are looking for, according to Lind. “Even though the new bus may not be a hit, it is good to hear that bus companies are motivated to make an even better bus,” said Lind. “I can’t wait to see what they come up with next.”

The ergonomically designed interior and control placement for increased driver comfort, one of the advantages of the new bus, means the bus should be more comfortable, according to Thomas Built Buses.

Foster believes, however, that manufacturers should get input from drivers. “They [should] ask us how to make a better bus,” said Foster. “The [new] bus rides and operates smoother than the old one just because it’s newer,” she added.

Although Foster likes her old bus better, the company gave her this one. “I had no choice,” said Foster. “But there’s no room to put the route sheets. They give [drivers] so much room in the front but there’s no place for a garbage or fire extinguisher, and I have to lean over so far I almost fall off the seat to reach the radio,” she added.

NEWSBYTES 2nd annual Rob Giaimo 5K run West Essex community members, including about a hundred West Essex students, ran in the second annual Robert P. Giaimo Memorial 5K run on October 29. The event raised money for the Giaimo Memorial Scholarships: the West Essex Regional Ice Hockey Scholarship, Robert P. Giaimo Scholarship, and the West Essex Regional Scholarship.

“We’ve got your back” a success Spanish teacher Kelly Henry’s homeroom won a free breakfast for collecting the most backpacks in Student Council’s joint relief project with Nickelodeon, “We’ve Got Your Back.” The program involved schools nationwide in collecting backpacks for those children affected by the disaster of Hurricane Katrina. Students brought in backpacks stuffed with personal supplies and school supplies such as pens, pencils, and notebooks.

Marching Knights place in many state and national competitions The Marching Knights placed second in the US Scholastic Band Association (USSBA) Championship for their performance of Les Miserables, a medley of the music from the Broadway musical, on November 12 at Allentown, Pennsylvania. They also placed in the top 25 bands at the Atlantic Coast Championship (ACC) on November 13 at Scranton, Pennsylvania. In order to receive an invitation to these events, they won their division championships at the Tournament of Bands (TOB) State Championships on November 6 at East Brunswick High School with a score of 89.45, the highest score they had ever recieved. Along with winning the overall championship, the Marching Knights placed first for general effect, auxiliary, and percussion.

Wessex Wire students win awards Wessex Wire staff won Overall Excellence in the C Division of the Garden State Scholastic Press Association (GSSPA) Fall Conference and eight additional awards for individual staff members’ work. They include: First and Third Place in Reviews/Entertainment to 2005 graduate, Rob Guizio; First Place In Depth Reporting to junior Helen Wang; Second Place In Depth Reporting and Honorable Mention in Opinion Writing to senior Jon Kartus; Second Place in Layout and Design to senior Jen Tomsey; Third Place in News Writing to senior Marissa Grossman; and Honorable Mention in Feature Writing to 2005 graduate, Catherine Quinn.

NHS sells breakfast for charity Led by president Will Storey, the National Honor Society (NHS) is selling bagels in order to raise money for breast cancer. Bagels are being sold every Friday by the cafeteria entrance.

by Helen Wang ‘07

news

wessexwessex wire - wire-january november 20052004

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Genocide discussion prompts leadership debate programs I should have been introduced to students, but I was introduced to parents at Back-to-School Night and to staff at a faculty meeting,” said InterimAssistant Principal John Petrozzino.

Principal Barbara Longo does plan to introduce him, which she thinks is important, although she believes that most students already know who he is. Longo also described leadership practices at West Essex as sim-

“In classes that allow for more discussion

by Laurie Mittelmann ‘07 and student-teacher interaction, students have been complaining about the way things In learning that a strong leader can bring are done at West Essex for a while now,” order out of chaos during a lesson on the added Nisivoccia, who feels that these making of great leaders, students of genoclasses are important because they “allow cide teacher Mr. Jeff Boyd suggested to him for the students to freely vent their opinions” that he be the new permanent assistant prinwhichwould“notdoanybetterifcontained.” cipal.

Daniella Hincapie, a junior at West Or“When there is chaos, people look for a ange High School who attended West Essex for her freshman and sophomore years of education, said that INGREDIENTS FOR EFFECTIVE LEADERSHIP it’s “easy for an institution with so To enact changes suggested by students, key leadership responsibilities call for the much money to cover things up leader to “focus on school practices and their impact on student learning,” according to with a little paint.”

“Balanced Leadership: What 30 Years of Research Tells Us About the Effect of LeaderIt’s “just seeing their faces ship on Student Achievement,” by Dr. Tim Waters, Dr. Robert J. Marzano, and Dr. Brian that lets you know that they’re McNulty. photo of Mr. Jeff doing their jobs,” said Hincapie in One ingredient for effective leadership, visibility, is the extent to which the school Boyd by Jon reference to administrators. “In leader has “quality contact and interaction with teachers and students,” the paper states.

Kartus The school leader with visibility “makes systematic and frequent visits to classrooms, West Orange High School the admaintains high visibility around the school, and has frequent contact with students,” ministration is nice to everyone “. . . students of Mr. Jeff Boyd they added. and administrators might not know suggested that he be the new Relationship, also an element of effective leadership, “demonstrates an awareness of my name but they are always permanent assistant principal.” the personal aspects of teachers and staff,” and plays a big role in how students perfriendly and out in the halls and form academically, according to Waters, Marzano, and McNulty. “When leaders concentrate on the wrong school and/ or classroom practices,” they “can negatively imtalking to and interacting with stu- but not a leader to others, and it is “impact student achievement.” possible to define a school leader” bedents…”

Visibility and promoting community are factors of leadership which matter because Hincapie never met or cause every student in the school has they “correlate positively with student achievement,” and effective leaders know “not knew who the West Essex ad- “someone he or she looks up to,” aconly what to do, but how, when, and why to do it,” according to Waters, Marzano, and ministrators were and, subse- cording to Di Stasi. “West Essex doesn’t McNulty. They “understand how to balance pushing for change” while at the same time “protecting” the already established “culture, values, and norms worth preserving.” quently, believes that sometimes need a leadership figure in the form of classroom teachers such as Boyd some new person none of us have ever “can make better leaders” be- met,” he added, in reference to the perleader who is willing to step up and fix the ply done “less directly” than students realize, cause there doesn’t seem to be “a wall sepa- son who may become the new permachaos,” said junior Rachel Berman, who why is why they aren’t always aware of the rating them all of the time from the students.” nent assistant principal. defines a leader as “someone whom people leadership provided.

Di Stasi, who like Nisivoccia only thinks “Learningcontentofthesubjecttaught[by respect and admire and can look up to for “As administrators, it is our job to oversee teachers who interact with students] is only that he can to identify Petrozzino on sight, advice and help.” everything that goes on in this school and one of the benefits for students in the class- doesn’t care that he isn’t sure because he Berman, who is in this class, said that stu- that is what we do,” she said. room because a student can also learn a lot doesn’t think that he will ever have to indents’ suggestions stemmed from the fact But West Essex leaders “only try to en- about life and develop a friendship with the teract with the assistant principal. He bethat Boyd “relates to students, would never force school rules and do not satisfy the other teacher,” according to Hincapie. lieves that students should not be encourmake them feel stupid, and makes sure [that] essentials which are to guide us, to support Her guidance counselor aged to rely on their school leaders bethey understand everything.” us, and to help us,” accord“Students don’t like someone who treats ing to Nisivoccia, who dePetrozzino wants to create “more positive” environment them [as if they are on] a lower level,” she fined those as important New Interim Assistant Principal John Petrozzino is always on cafeteria or bus duty saying “Hi, said. “They like to be treated equally and leadership responsibilities. good morning, have a good day, or the weather’s great.” with respect,” added Berman.

Michael Susin, a West Petrozzino “constantly” checks on the facilities “to ensure a clean and safe learning environSeniorAdam Nisivoccia would like to see Essex 2005 graduate and ment,” while observing students’ and teachers’ behavior, which “gives [him] a good sense of the theadministrationmore“involved”withstu- a current student at the building and more than just a snapshot picture of it.”

“It is absolutely important to identify the culture of West Essex in order to [determine] how to dents and at least “try to get to know the Pennsylvania Institute of run things in the building,” said Petrozzino. students they are supposed to be helping to Technology, does not feel, His 40 years as an educator, and especially his work as a consultant with the State Departget ready for the reality check of life after however, that neither the ment of Education in New Jersey, have influenced his perspective of West Essex. high school and college.” presence nor the lack of “I think that West Essex is a great school with tremendous potential,” said Petrozzino, who Nisivoccia recalls elementary school ad- leadership during his high added that there’s always room for improvement, however. “As a new administrator here, I have ministrators who “at least remembered stu- school years has affected no historical perspective of it and can only judge it based on comparisons to other schools,” Petrozzino said. dents’ names,” because “they spent the time him at college. “A high In comparison to other schools, Petrozzino thinks that West Essex student behavior outside to at least put some effort into knowing their school student might as of the classrooms is orderly and that there are “hardly ever” disciplinary problems. Inside the students.” well get used to being classrooms “outstanding” teachers instruct without interruptions because of the “highly motivated and attentive” students.

Berman agrees with Nisivoccia that ad- more independent, beBut he would like to encourage a sense of community at West Essex, which he believes ministrators should be more involved with cause in college he or she would increase school spirit and a sense of pride and which would, in turn, make West Essex students and added that it would be “benefi- is not likely ever to meet learning environment more positive. cial” if they were. “Students who are looking administration,” he said. forsomeonetoguidethemorhelpthemdon’t “And one can only know who to turn to,” she said. hope to have smaller classes where the pro- at West Essex, Mr. David Wolfelsperger, cause in the future they will have to lead “Stronglinesofcommunicationwithteach- fessor presents himself or herself on a more was “amazing because he showed that he themselves individually. ers and among students,” is missing at West personal level because it’s not often that the cared as a friend and [she] could see [her“I hardly care about the school, but I Essex,accordingtoseniorAdamNisivoccia. professors are able to do so,” Susin added. self]goingbacktohisofficenowjusttochat.” [do] care about the students in it who I This“lackofcommunication”accountsfor But West Essex is feeling the blow from a The ability to provide direction in life fear are getting caught up in issues the fact that although Nisivoccia knows that lack of leadership in areas that are important outside of high school is more important like...who the assistant principal is, that West Essex already has an interim assistant to students, according to Nisivoccia. “The in a leader, however, according to senior they forget about their futures,” said Di principal,hecanonlyidentifyhimbyhisphysi- lack of leadership has already and will con- Alex Di Stasi. “If someone can persuade Stasi. “Students need to figure things out cal appearance since he has not been “prop- tinue to bring down the morale of the stu- me to think his or her way, then I believe for themselves,” he added, questioning if erly introduced” to students. students will be “fit” to “run the world 50 dents, which will eventually bring down the he or she has leadership qualities.”

“I guess that at one of the past assembly entire school,” he said.

One person may be a leader to some years from now.”

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wessexwessex wire - wire-january november 20052004

news

Board policy calls for private school student to leave band

by Amanda Nichols ‘08

Aproposalthatwouldhaveallowedfreshman Chas Stewart to participate in the West Essex Marching Band, even though he attends Seton Hall Prep, went down to defeat at the October 10 board meeting.

“I proposed the new policy that would [have] allow[ed] private school students to [participate in]West Essex activities because I thought it was important for the board to be presented with both sides of the issue,” said interim Superintendent Dr. Donald Merachnik who explained that the board just wanted “to leave the policy as it was,” although board members “thought it needed to be stronger.”

For that reason Merachnik made a second proposal, which the board also rejected, that would have strengthened the existing policy with a change in language. As it now stands, no change will be made to the current policy, which does not allow private school students to participate in the West Essex extra curriculars.

“The new proposed policy would [have] allow[ed] the board to evaluate whether a private school student would be allowed to join if the activity was not available at the student’s school,” explained Merachnik.

Stewart, who petitioned the board to allow himtoparticipatewiththeWestEssexmarchingband,livesinRoselandandattendedWest Essex Junior High for two years but now attends Seton Hall Prep.

Since marching band, an activity that Stewart joined in the spring of 2005, is not offered at Seton Hall, Stewart joined the West Essex Marching Band under the impression others had done so in the past, but the board of education voted against allowing him to participate on September 19.

The order led to a public outcry which

prompted Merachnik to bring additional proposals.

Prior to Merachnik’s involvement,BusinessAdministrator/Board Secretary Mr. Daniel Borgo informed the public at an earlier board meeting that letting Chas in the band would “open the flood gates for the 200 plus private school students who live in the West Essex area.”

Jr.HighBanddirectorand former winter guard instructor, Mr. Eric Fitzke, confirmed, however, that a girl had participated in winter guard even though she attended private school, but photo by Helen Wang high school band director Mr. Russ Batsch, who did not work at West Essex at the time, could not confirm Stewart, whose spot would be in the second row from the left, is conspicuously absent from the marching band lineup, creating a hole in the baritone section. that this had in fact occurred.

Themarchingband,which now consists of sophomore Nicholas Instead of having to fill a finite number of marching in the middle of nowhere,” said Vidovich as its only baritone player now that spots as in soccer or field hockey, marching Vidovich. Who added that it’s “impossible Stewart is gone, had hoped for an outcome band actually looks for as many new mem- to know” where he’s going because he needs that would have allowed Stewart to march, bers as are interested in participating. to be able to “guide the form” to someone, and had presented a letter written by “It’s not like he’s taking someone else’s and that someone is gone. “It’s just me.”

Vidovich and signed by 45 band members spot. That drill spot was written for him,” Other band members are concerned asking that the board grant their request. said sophomore alto saxophone playerTara about the show as well. “If there weren’t so Reasons for not allowing Stewart to re- Molesworth. “Marching band is a special many empty spots in the drill to begin with it main in marching band, as cited in a letter case and should be re-evaluated by the wouldn’tbesuchabigdeal,”saidjuniorclarifrom the board to Mr. and Mrs. Charles board.” she added net player Brittany Dee Mueller. “But at this Stewart, included research regarding prac“We’re all just really frustrated because point we need anyone we can get to fill the tices in other districts: “The board has spo- the holes in the drill and music make it really holes, and this new proposal could mean a ken to other districts in the area,” the letter hard to get good scores,” said Molesworth full field for the marching band.” stated, “not one allows private school stu- in reference to the criteria by which the band Although board members declined to dents to participate in public school activi- is judged, i.e., based on how well they can comment on the outcome of this issue, ties.” convey a picture on the field and with music. Stewart believes that since he’s been, “taken However, Stewart questioned the validity Probably the most frustrated though, is out of the team the entire [field] show [has] of the argument. “If every other school in the Vidovich. suffered because there’s a hole” where he district jumps off a bridge would you?”

“Now that Chas is gone, it’s like I’m should be, in the drill and in the music.

Wessex graduate encourages seniors to consider Tulane University (continued from page 1)

“It’ll still be under heavy construction and rebuilding, and . . . I might be less inclined to go, just because I know that I would be going to a college in a city that is still recovering from major devastation,” Gelberg said.

But former West Essex student Lindsey Boss who would have been one of the thousands of Tulane University students displaced by Hurricane Katrina, had she not studied abroad in Spain this past semester, has decided to return to “I believe all of the students will have even more energy and appreciation for the city and school now that this tragedy has occurred,” she said.

However, like Gelberg, senior Cristin Mustillo, who also applied Early Action, says that she will still consider attending Tulane, but much of her decision will be based on a trip that she has yet to take to see the campus itself and the surrounding area.

And she is concerned about health risks.

“I have a feeling that I’ll be dodging puddles,” she said in reference to avoid-

ing those risks. Also, “while Tulane may have the finances and means to rebuild, I’m not sure the rest of New Orleans does.”

Mustillo may not be far off track. Indeed, the city of New Orleans may not be safe to return to yet, according to EPA Administrator Stephen Johnson. The hurricane created a “myriad of potential health concerns,” he said.

The EPA is currently investigating 54 toxic waste sites in and around the city, but thus far has found “no signs of chemicals released or ruptures in waste containers,” according to the Associated Press.

In addition, the possibility of bacterial infections in some of the more damaged areas, such as the ninth ward, still exists.

However, the Garden District, where Tulane is located, only suffered from “minor flooding,” “not the kind you saw on the news,” according to Valerie Timmers who works in Tulane’s Office of Admissions.

Proud to be a student at Tulane, Boss, however, does not think that any prospec-

tive student should be discouraged about applying. “Tulane is a tier 1 university with an outstanding reputation, and it is situated in one of the most unique cities in the world,” she said in reference to attending Tulane, a decision that she called the “best” she ever made.

University officials have guaranteed returning students that both the campus and the city around it are safe for their return.

They have even set special dates in the upcoming months designated for students to come visit the campus or to retrieve possessions that they left behind in the rushed evacuation after the hurricane hit, according to current Tulane student Catie Olgaard.

In addition to safety concerns, Tulane also needs to deal with some housing issues which have “always been a major problem,” said Boss. “There simply is not enough housing available for all the students who want or need it, and now [after] the hurricane even more students [have been] displaced,” said

Boss, who added that she, herself, does not have any issues with housing.

“I’m lucky. My house sustained minimal damage, and my landlord has not imposed paying back rent,” she said. Boss knows other students who are having issues with their landlords, however.

“Many landlords are evicting students or demanding back rent,” according to Boss.

“This is absurd because during these months the houses where uninhabitable,” she added. As a result, Tulane has hired lawyers to represent Tulane students free of charge to prosecute the unlawful treatment by the landlords, according to Boss.

To make up for the cancelled semester, displaced Tulane students studied abroad or at other schools around the country to gain credits. The University is also offering an extra session in May and June of 2006 so that students may make up credits lost to Katrina.

Students whom Boss knows will stay for that session just to “spend more time at school [in order to] make up for lost time with friends” and to extend what Boss calls “a great college experience.”

In this section: Cindy Sheehan...............................7 Does it bother you that..................8 Applause and Flaws.......................8 STAFF EDITORIAL

Inform students, make sure they know leaders Take that hat off! Put that cell phone away! If you don’t, you’ll get sent to…uummm…wait, who’s theAssistant Principal this month?

In a recent poll taken by senior Marissa Grossman , only 10 of 100 surveyed students could name him, probably including his own granddaughter, senior ElizabethTrainor.

But who is the man who happens to be the second most powerful person in the entire school? No, it’s not that guy with the glasses. That’s Mr. D’Ascensio, a hall monitor. He was at one point, however, one of the five assistant principals West Essex has exhausted in the last year.

Our current interim assistant principal, at least for the next couple of hours, is John Petrozzino, whom 15% of the student sampling could not even identify by sight.

Let’s face it. Some students simply do not care about the leadership of their school and would not care to know who runs it anyway.

Some, admittedly, make it their business to become informed and some find out only when they’re sent to the office. Still, the students cannot be blamed completely for their ignorance.

Not only has West Essex gone through assistant principals faster than seventh period lunch runs out of food, but in the last six months, Superintendent Dr. Patrick Pelosi; Junior High Principal Joseph Del Guercio; Director of Curriculum, Instruction, and Assessment Sandra Searing; and Board of Education members Howard Mittlemann and Elizabeth Schaeffer have resigned as well.

This revolving door of leaders has caused more than confusion amongst students. Evidence of a lack of law and order has manifested itself in many ways. One student has admitted to now wearing his hat every day simply because no one bothers to tell him to take it off any more.

One glance down this hallway reveals that many other students feel the same way. However, last year students would not have dared to wear hats as this action would have resulted in the confiscation of the hat for the rest of the school year.

The lack of stability in school leadership teams is seen through issues larger than the simple wearing of hats.

An increase in locker room thefts this year has prompted

gym teachers to be forced to lock the locker rooms during classes, slowing the changing process at the end of gym and causing some students to be tardy to their next class as a result.

While the solution to this problem is neither clear nor simple, a simple assembly would have at least helped.

In the beginning of the 2003-2004 school year, when

tempted to send a similar message this year, and to be fair to Petrozzino, he was not even working here yet.

The assembly would not have completely prevented disciplinary infractions or stopped the thefts or the chaos; however, administrators did not even try this simple approach to inform students and to let them know that they still have leaders.

?

Mr. Darren Groh began his tenure as Assistant Principal, he hosted an assembly not only to introduce himself but to lay down the law as well.

He stated, in no uncertain terms, that he would uphold the rules, even simple ones like the hat policy. Nobody at-

Quiz Question: Which one of these men is now your asst. principal ?

Sheehan must respect others’ choices including enlistment

by Jon Kartus ‘06

While it may be Cindy Sheehan’s goal to change the minds of high school students about enlisting in the military, according to Michael Shanker’s interview with Cindy Sheehan, the decision made by legal adults to enlist is, quite frankly, none of her business.

While she has every right to protest the war in Iraq, especially given the fact that her son died in that war, enlisting is a personal decision made by an adult who wants to serve his or her country, regard-

less of what Sheehan thinks about the cause for fighting.

While she may not agree with the cause for which we are fighting and for which her son died, she must realize that other people do and that they have the right to fight for that cause.

When people, including Sheehan’s son, voluntarily enlist in the military, they are taking a gamble that if our country goes to war, they may die. Even during a time of peace, people who join the military to fund their college education or gain direction in life must realize that the possibility exists.

If one is not willing to make that sacrifice, enlisting for the sake of getting a college education, for example, may be too big of a gamble to be worthwhile and other means of obtaining an education or direction in life must be considered.

Although, losing a child in a war may be the most difficult prospect in the world for a family member to face, it is an issue to be dealt with only between those family members involved.

Parents should, of course, make sure that their children understand the gravity of the decision to enlist, and they have the right to encourage their own not to enlist

for any reason, including disagreement with the underlying reason for war, as was true in Sheehan’s case.

However, Sheehan’s broad statement that no high school student should enlist, just because she does not agree with or trust the currentadministrationisheropinionandonly one opinion among many in this country.

She is, of course, constitutionally entitled to hold and express her opinion. However, since the Constitution is the document that allows her to protest in the first place, she should respect the freedom to hold and express other opinions as well, including support for the decision to join the military.

8

wessexwessex wire - wire-january november 2005 2004

opinion

Board is right: ban private school student participation

by Kristen Ricigliano, ‘07

“Board policy forces private school student to leave band” by Amanda Nichols raises a question as to whether or not a student who attends private school should be able to participate in public school extra curricular activities. If the private school that the student attends does not offer an activity in which the student wants to participate, and if that student lives in a public school district where parents pay taxes, is it reasonable to ask that he be allowed to participate?

The answer is absolutely, definitely, not.

The current policy, which states that only stu-

dents who attend West Essex High School can participate in extra curricular activities, is not going to be changed and with good reason.

Interim Superintendent Dr. Donald Merachnik of the West Essex Board of Education presented two new proposals after Stewart petitioned the Board of Education. One allowed private school students to participate in public school activities and theotherstrengthenedtheexistingpolicywith achangein language. Although he proposed both, the Board accepted neither.

Well, The Board of Education is right.

Under no circumstances should the current

Does it bother you that...

by Benjamin Chase Elberg, ‘06

Forty million tax dollars spent, and what do West Essex students have to show for it?

New ceilings. New floors. More parking spots in the parking lot. A new state of the art cafeteria that serves a wide variety of hot and cold lunches, desserts, beverages, and a nutritious salad bar. A great new covered walkway into school. And best of all, every bit of it is happening because construction workers are so busy that they don’t even have time to show their faces.

I guess the 40 million dollars that our school is spending on destruction, I mean construction, is well worth every penny of tax payers’ money.

The ceilings are sporting that state of the art industrial look. Exposed pipes line the expanse of the hallways that allow us to see the inner workings of the schools plumbing and heating. The new floors also give the school that real “I used to be a warehouse in the middle of nowhere, now I’ve been converted to a school room” look.

All the teachers, parents, and students love the redesign of the new parking lot in front of the tennis courts. The room taken up by the islands where grass is hoping to grow is well worth it for the aesthetics. It doesn’t matter that the architect sacrificed a good number of spots.

Most of the 40 million dollars must have been dedicated to that grand cafeteria, I would imagine, because when students eat there, they forget that they are at school and think they are at a four star restaurant instead.

Also, that new walkway leading to the main entrance and the roof over it that spans at least half a football field is great in inclement weather. The roof really keeps students dry when they walk to the main entrance from the front lot or the drop off.

Last but not least – those construction workers...frankly, they must just be working so quietly. I never even notice them.

Basically, I would like to say “thank you” West Essex. Well done, well done. Hey, at least we have a new turf field and good chicken quesadillas.

APPLAUSE AND FLAWS Applause: • To the state champion field hockey team • To finally having senior parking • To Mrs. Elberg for accompanying the Wire staff on their field trip • To the drummers at the Boys’ Soccer night game • ToAnthony Picciuto & Steve Zurawiecki for their mature comments at the assembly • To seniors who are already accepted to college • To Jason Peckis for putting the Wire before his personal life • To Mrs. Rosenberg and Mrs. Mittelmann for feeding the Wire staff Flaws: • To the students who stole iPods from the locker rooms • To the candy machine that never works • To the utter lack of respect during the bullying assembly • To the network for crashing the night of the Wire deadline • To the student body for under-appreciating Jason Peckis and Justin Stolfi -compiled by the Wire staff

policy be altered or changed to allow non West Essex students to participate in our school activities.

Despite the fact that Chas Stewart went to West Essex for two years prior to attending Seton Hall as a freshman, the truth remains that he is no longer a West Essex student; therefore, allowing him to participate in the West Essex marching band would be a violation of the school policy.

Each public school in New Jersey follows its own school policies regarding extra curricularactivities;however,eachschoolpolicy must follow the state regulations set by the NJSIAA. The NJSIAA states that in order for a student to be eligible to participate in the interscholastic athletic program, they must be an enrolled member of the school. Also, how can the West Essex marching band fairly compete against other schools with Stewart when, technically, they will be cheating.

As an athlete, I know that I would be very, very mad if I competed against other public schools who had kids from private school on their team. Even if only one school in New Jersey made an exception for only one child, then every other school in New Jersey would have the right to follow suit.

For the sake of fairness, rules are meant to be followed, and if a proposal passes to allow someone to bypass a current policy, then the whole purpose of extra curricular participation requirements is defeated.

Stewart’s situation is not a rare one. Many

students in the West Essex area do choose to attend private schools for their freshmen year; therefore, more “Stewarts,” so to speak, could appear in the future if the policy isn’t strictly enforced now.

The choice to attend a private school is exactly that, a choice, and when students choose to attend a school, they are now members of that school system. It’s only fair, then, that students adapt to the changes that coincide with making the choice to attend a different school.

Most are obvious, for example, a uniform in some cases, a block schedule or a longer ride to school; however, others, such as the lack of an extra curricular activity in which a student wants to participate, may not be as apparentwhenthestudentmakesthatchoice.

Unfortunately for Stewart, the fact that Seton Hall Prep does not have a marching band should have been considered before his decision to commit to that school because in light of school policy and the NJSIAAregulations,hisargumentisinvalid.

Even if Stewart, hypothetically, had been the star of the West Essex marching band in the past and had been an indispensable member, that was then and this is now.

Stewart no longer attends West Essex High School and therefore, under no circumstances should he or anyone else in his situation be allowed to wear a school uniform, practice on the school fields, compete withoragainstpublicschoolteams,andmost important, call himself aWest Essex Knight.

The Official Student Newspaper of West Essex High School A Columbia Scholastic Press Association Silver Crown, Gold Medalist Paper GSSPA First Place New Jersey Distinguished Journalism Award 65 West Greenbrook Road, North Caldwell, New Jersey 07006 (973) 228-1200 ext. 258 2005-2006 STAFF:

News Bytes Editor Helen Wang, ‘07

Staff Writers Marietta Alessi, ‘08 Ashley Begega, ‘08 Jamie Blaustein, ‘07 Jenna Cirangle, ‘07 Katie Clavin, ‘07 Matt Cohn, ‘08 Dan Coplon, ‘07 Emily Cox, ‘07 Ben Elberg, ‘06 Victor Fonseca, ‘07 Tom Grossi, ‘07 Sam Lerner, ‘06 Jeremy Lim, ‘08 Ryan Logan, ‘08 Michael McConnell, ‘07 JJ McNamara, ‘07 Steve Monin, ‘07 Amanda Nichols, ‘08 Jared Prince, ‘07 Carlo Reda, ‘06 Kristen Ricigliano, ‘07 Michael Shanker, ‘06

Copy Editor Laurie Mittelmann, ‘07

Advisor Tina Lane

Editors-in-Chief Marissa Grossman, ‘06 Jon Kartus, ‘06 Jen Tomsey, ‘06 News Editor Marissa Grossman, ‘06 Opinion Editor Jon Kartus, '06 Feature Editor Jen Tomsey, '06 Sports Editors Sandra Lucero, ‘07 Katie Rosenberg, ‘07 Among the Mugs Editor Sandra Lucero, ‘07

Wire Editorial Policy The national award winning Wessex Wire is published with supplemental updates to inform, educate, and entertain the student body, faculty, and community. Unsigned editorials are the consensus opinion of the editorial board and do not always reflect the views of the advisor, staff, administration, and/or board of education. Signed editorials reflect the view of the person whose name appears in the byline.

The Wire serves as a forum for the free expression of ideas and opinions of students, staff, and community members.

We urge readers to write letters to the editor on pertinent matters of concern. Letters must be signed; however, anonymity will be granted if necessary upon request. Members of the editorial board reserve the right to edit all letters to the editor for length or libelous content.

Students, faculty, or members of the community with an interesting experience or strong opinion on any subject are also encouraged to write or contact the Wire.

In this section: In this issue: Diversity at West Essex........................10-11 Fall fashion report.......................................13 Exclusive interview with Cindy Sheehan......15

High price$ at the pump Cost forces teens to manage time and money driving in order to conserve gas.

by Katie Rosenberg ‘07 Senior Cait Petry and her friends who live in Parsippany rotate where they hang out so that no The driveway up to campus is busier, the front one person has to bear more of the expense than parking lot is full, and West Essex seniors are another. spending more money. Despite the steep cost of Senior Michael Lisa’s friends also rotate drivrefilling an empty tank, these seniors are now driv- ers when they go out. However, he does admit ing many more miles everyday since the reinstitut- that he “drives a good amount,” and that some of ing of senior parking on October 24. his friends drive more than others because some But with a 17 gallon tank that only gets 7 to 10 like to be the driver and others don’t like to pay miles per gallon, the high price of gas is stopping for gas. senior Michael Because “the gas Taussi from “driving mileage of an SUV to dumb places” is terrible,” accordlike “Starbucks” ing to junior Rachel “[Teenagers] who don’t drive don’t because it costs Berman, she and think it’s a big deal, but when you typically $45 to $60 seniors Chris Clavin have a car and you’re responsible for regular grade and Dan Landy all gas to fill up his drive compact cars. to pay for it, you realize how expen1968 Camaro.

“I would never sive it’s gotten.”

Taussi, who drive an SUV be- Junior Rachel Berman pays for his own cause I drive so gas, now drives to much that it would school everyday, and has to spend a lot more be really expensive to fill,” said Berman. Senior money because of the commute since he “started Alex Bass, however, spends $55 to fill his BMW parking at school,” he said.

X3 SUV. However, it is a trade-off that many are willing The burden of paying for their own gas has to take. “The convenience of driving to school and caused teenagers to find ways to support their having my car with me outweighs the fact that I driving habits. “Now that teenagers have to worry now have to pay for more gas,” said Taussi, who about gas prices, they may be forced to change swims and who is involved with the National Art their lives, maybe in terms of having to get a job,” Honor society.

Landy said.

Having a car at school makes it easier to “get Berman, who baby-sits regularly to make exwhere I need to go without having to rely on some- tra money, drives an Audi A8 and didn’t realize one else for a ride,” he said. how “astronomical” the price of gas had become To economize in the face of hefty gas prices, until she got her license this past September and (continued on page 13) seniors are carpooling, and they’re taking turns

-photo by Katie Rosenberg The gas prices at the Sunoco station on the corner of Passaic Ave and West Greenbrook Road as of November 19. The prices have since decreased from Labor Day; however, they still remain higher than one year ago.

GAS SAVING TIPS

1. Buy regular gas. Engi- spot you see. If you wander open the windows and turn off 13. Buy gas when it’s neers assume the car buyer all over the parking lot looking the air conditioning to save cooler. Buying during the day is going to use the cheap gas, and design the car’s engine accordingly. Avoid buying higher octane gas than your car requires, you’re simply wasting money.

for that really close parking space, you’ll use more gas.

9. Add a couple gallons at 5. Pay cash if there is an ex- a time. Gas station owners tra charge to use a credit card.

6. Do not idle your car. If

2. Keep your tires prop- you’re going to be standing for erly inflated. Up to 6% gas more than a minute, running mileage loss occurs for every single pound your tire is under-inflated.

money.

your engine wastes more gas than restarting the engine.

monitor how much gas people put into their cars each day.

Add only a few gallons to send a message to the owners that people are not happy about high prices.

(like the early morning or at night) reduces gas evaporation.

14. Keep your car tuned.

A poorly tuned car can use up to 25% more gas.

15. Avoid “revving” the engine, especially just before you switch the engine off; this

10. Drive slower. Most cars wastes fuel needlessly and

7 . K e e p y o u r w i n d o w s are less efficient at higher washes oil down from the inside cylinder walls, owing to 3. Do not carry unneces- closed. On highways open win- speeds. Try not to speed. loss of oil pressure. sary items. Every 250 extra dows can reduce your gas 12. Do not peel out. If you pounds uses up an extra mile mileage by as much as 10%. move away from a stoplight 16. Think Ahead . Accelerper gallon.

8. Turn off air condition- slowly, it will help save you ate before you reach hills, not while you’re on them.

4. Pick the first parking ing. In stop-and-go traffic, money at the pump.

-http://www.scambusters.org/ and http://wiki.ehow.com/Save-Money-on-Gas

10

wessexwessex wire - wire-january november 20052004

feature / in depth

EXCLUSIVE WIRE COVERAGE

Sheehan advises students not to enlist for this war only care about how they can make themselves better,” said Fonseca.

“They don’t care about Americans; If Cindy Sheehan could do one thing, she they only care about their own politiwould want to make sure that students who are cal agenda.” still considering enlisting in the Armed Forces Sheehan agrees that Bush primarily change their minds. cares about his own political agenda, “Right now our country is waging a very ille- as she added that President Bush used gal, bloody, and unnecessary conflict in Iraq,” meetings with the families of deceased said the anti war activist, who camped outside soldiers to gain political leverage for the President Bush’s Ranch during the month of Au- 2004 election. gust to protest the war and the cause for which “George Bush told us that [meeting her son died. with families] wasn’t about politics, “Until we can give you leadership that you and during that meeting, for some can trust and only use wisely, then I would say strange reason, we believed him,” said don’t enlist,” added Sheehan, as she addressed Sheehan. “But then he started using [the her answers specifically to West Essex students meeting] for politics during the Repubin an exclusive interview with the Wessex Wire. lican National Convention, just two Sheehan wants to prevent what happened to months after we met with him.” her son from happening to other young AmeriVictor credits his brother’s experience with turning him against the war even more.

H i s b r o t h e r ’s two tours in Iraq made him sure that the army is “Until we can give you leadership that definitely not the you can trust and only use wisely, then right choice for I would say don’t enlist.”

Anti-war activist Cindy Sheehan holding a picture of him.

“The fact that her son Casey, who died fighting for his country in - Anti-war activist Cindy Sheehan I had to face the Iraq. Sheehan has been leading protests, even prospect of my camping outside his ranch in Crawford, Texas, in order b r o t h e r d y i n g to persuade President George W. Bush to meet with turned m e her regarding the ongoing war in Iraq. can men and women, and she wants young against [war] even more, and it helped people to make sure that they are informed and me make people think twice about it before an honorable way to die, for [my] country, and that they know the cause for which they are they join,” said Fonseca. “I would say, ‘How it would be worth it.” In fact, Guido says that fighting. would you feel if your big brother went to Iraq he would still join despite the risks. As for the “I have seen that they (high school and col- and he came home in a coffin?’ I had to think reason: “To defend my country,” and Guido belege students) are a lot better informed [about] about that every day while he was gone,” he lieves that Iraq would be the “perfect opportuwhat is going on in the world than I would have added. nity” to do so. thought, and I see a lot of them becoming more Matt Guido, the brother of junior Marc Guido, Regarding this year’s senior students, Alex involved in the peace movement,” said Sheehan. attends the US Naval Academy, and Marc un- Hayes will be attending The United States MiliWest Essex Junior Victor Fonseca agrees derstands that he may lose his brother to a war tary Academy at West Point next fall. Although with Cindy Sheehan regarding her opposition in the future, as Matt is required to serve five Hayes is prepared to serve his country and posto the war in Iraq. years in the Navy after graduating from the sibly fight in Iraq, he is not going solely for that “The army is something I never considered, Academy. reason. and Sheehan makes a good argument, but I’ve Regardless, Guido aspires to follow suit and “I committed to West Point because I am getalways protested the Army and war in general join one of the branches of the Special Forces ting paid to receive a top tier education,” said because I don’t like guns,” said Fonseca. (Navy Seals, Delta Force, or Green Beret) upon Hayes, who added that not only is he guaran“Growing up and living in New York, I’ve wit- graduating high school. teed a job if he chooses to take it, but he also nessed shootings, and I don’t believe that one “I support everything we’re doing in Iraq,” gets to play lacrosse. “Most of all, I [get to] person should be able to decide when another said Guido. He has to “support the troops” as serve my country,” said Hayes. person dies.” he wants to join the military.

As for Sheehan’s advice: “Sheehan should Fonseca has been directly affected by the war, “Ever since I was young, I had a great inter- have accepted the fact that her son chose to as his older brother did two tours in Iraq. “My est in planes, battle, and warfare in general. It defend his country and was risking his life doschool work was going bad because I’d always has always been my dream to serve for one of ing so,” added Hayes. “My parents are exbe worried about my brother,” said Fonseca. the branches of the Special Forces,” said Guido, tremely respectful and proud of my decision to “I only got to speak to him once or twice while who disagrees with Sheehan. attend West Point, and they understand the risks he was there,” Fonseca added. “We prayed a “She has no right to protest, her son chose I am taking in serving my country, possibly in lot more than we usually did,” said Fonseca to serve his country,” Guido said. “He under- time of war,” about how his family turned to their faith. “I may stood that a war could potentially break out and Although Guido and Hayes plan on joining not look like the most religious guy, but I knew that he would have to risk his life.” the military, statistically, the recruitment rate is he would be okay because we prayed for him.”

Cindy Sheehan’s protests have had no effect down, as the Army has missed the enlistment Fonseca questions President Bush’s reasons on Guido’s opinion of the war in Iraq and none target by its largest margin since 1979 this year. for invading Iraq, and despite the fact that his on his desire to join the Special Forces. But Recruiter Sergeant VanDyke of the US Army brother joined the army, Fonseca still can’t sup- Guido knows that the war may very well still be who has visited West Essex to recruit students port the war. going on when he enlists, and he is prepared to could not be reached for comment after having “Bush is doing this to [finish] what his father fight and face the prospect of losing his life. agreed to an interview. started [with desert storm]. To me, politicians “I know I could lose my life, but it would be

by Mike Shanker ‘07

feature / in depth

wessex wire wire-january - november 2005 wessex 2004

11

EXCLUSIVE WIRE INTERVIEW

Cindy Sheehan, an anti- war activist who began to protest the war in Iraq after her son died in battle last April, protested outside President Bush’s ranch in Crawford, Texas both for the entire month of August and for this most recent Thanksgiving week. Out of this protest she formed the Camp Casey Movement, and Sheehan now tours the country, hosting anti- war rallies.

Thanks to the help from Mr. Scott Elberg at Air America Radio, the Wessex Wire contacted and interviewed Sheehan. (see page 16 for related coverage on protest and patriotism)

WW: What would you say to parents whose child is considering enlisting?

CS: Don’t let them do it … for the same reasons as I would tell high school students. [It’s] just not worth having your child come home in a flag draped coffin. I believe that being in the military can be very honorable, and if people want to help their communities and defend their communities that’s one thing, but to be sent to a war of choice, a preemptive war to invade a country that’s no threat to Americans and, perhaps, to die in that war is very painful.

WW: Do you know about the NCLB Provision that makes it mandatory for schools to turn over info to recruiters?

CS: Yes, I think NCLB is just a harp for recruiting, and I believe every parent should opt out of the process at the beginning of the school year so their child can’t be contacted. If a child really wants to enlist, they can find a recruiter.

WW: What was your reaction when your son Casey told you he was enlisting in the army?

CS: I was devastated; I was devastated and surprised.

WW: How did you feel when he reenlisted and you found out he was going to be sent to Iraq?

CS: He reenlisted because they told him he would have to go to Iraq anyway. So even if he didn’t reenlist he was going to be sent to Iraq.

WW: So you couldn’t stop him from going?

CS: I tried to, but there was no legal way to do it.

[Note: If Casey Sheehan did not reenlist, a Pentagon issued stop- loss order would have forced him to stay in the military beyond the time period agreed upon in his contract]

WW: Were you ever a supporter of President the “what if” questions because I can’t say [how I would have felt] because my son is dead. I Bush and the war? don’t like to contemplate those kinds of things.

CS: No WW: Although you have not gotten the WW: Was Bush in office when Casey en- chance to meet with President Bush again, what do you think your work and the awarelisted? ness you’ve raised has contributed to the antiwar movement, and the ultimate goal of endCS: No, he enlisted in May of 2000.

WW: If you always opposed the war, why did you ing the war? only speak out after Casey passed away?

CS: I believe it just sparked the movement that WW: If you always opposed the war, why did was already there, and it just didn’t have anything you only speak out after Casey passed away? to focus on. I think that’s what the Camp Casey movement did.

CS: Yes, I was really sorry I didn’t before, but I thought one person couldn’t make a difference. WW: If you could meet with President Bush So, after Casey died I just thought if I can’t face to face today and get an answer to your make a difference at least I will go to my grave original question regarding the noble cause for knowing that I tried. At least I will be able to which your son died, what would you say on look Casey’s future nieces and nephews and tell behalf of young people like myself who do them that their grandma did everything she or do not support the war and have heard could, and I have proven myself wrong, one your message? person can make a difference.

CS: I would say, “George Bush, if you think WW: If you hadn’t lost your son, to what it’s such a noble cause, do you encourage your degree do you think you would be question- own daughters to enlist? They’re of age, they can go. If you’re so willing to send other ing the cause of the war? people’s children to die, what about your own CS: Well, I questioned it before, but I didn’t children? do it publicly. I don’t know and can’t say that, but I hope that soon I would have [awakened] WW: Is there anything else you think I to the fact that I had to protest publicly. I found should know?

Military Families Speak Out after Casey was killed; Maybe I would have found it and been CS: It’s really hard for a young person your working with the peace movement before if he age to relate to having a child killed. Because, [hadn’t been] killed, but I don’t know and I you know, you can’t really [relate to] that, and I know that when we are that age, we think that can’t say that. we are invincible and we’re never [going to] die.

WW: How would you have felt if WMDs had But I would just tell you to look at your moms, been found, and we had validated our rea- and think about how they would feel if you died . . . and not to put your family through that. My sons for going to war? family is going through a lot. Casey had two CS: Saddam wasn’t a threat to the United younger sisters and a younger brother, and my States of America even if he had WMDs. For husband and I are getting a divorce. Just don’t 12 years we had devastating sanctions against do this to your family for somebody who only him, and he was no threat. I don’t really like wants to profit off of your life.

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“Students look, talk alike”

by Victor Fonseca ‘07 Sporting collared shirts, flip flops, and dreams of going to an Ivy League school, West Essex High School students eat their lunches and discuss the weekend.

They may “look alike and speak alike” to the outside visitor, according to history teacher Mr. Tony Janish, but there’s one thing missing from this story book picture, Janish added. Diversity.

“When coming into this school for the first time, I noticed it was a symbol for White America,” Janish said.

“When I was growing up, I had many friends from different backgrounds, added Janish.

“Most of my friends were from all over the place, and I think that not having a diverse atmosphere can really hurt the students of West Essex in the near future,” Janish said.

The world is not what they see here now. It’s a different place with many different people.”

But not at West Essex, apparently.

Ninety four percent of the West Essex Senior High students are Caucasian, three percent Hispanic, three percent Asian, and one percent African American, according to the New Jersey Public School Review for West Essex.

That means that out of the 682 students who walk the halls of this school, approximately 636 are Caucasian, 6 are African American, 20 are Hispanic, and 20 are Asian.

Sophomore Marc Cifelli also sees the same problem for students that Janish sees.

“When you get out of high school,

you’ll be in situations where you will have to deal with a lot of different people and with little to no knowledge of other backgrounds,” added Cifelli. “You will be in for a rude awakening,” he said.

Sophomore John Hong would also like to see more “physical diversity” at West Essex. “It bothers me to the extent that I don’t see more people who look like me,” he added.

“But at least it’s not an all white school. There’s a positive and negative to it. Some [students] are nice to you, but they really don’t know much about Asian culture.

Statistics from other schools throughout New Jersey show that they are more diverse than West Essex, which has an average of fifty five percent Caucasian, nineteen percent Hispanic, nineteen percent African American, and seven percent Asian, according to the New Jersey Public School review for the rest of New Jersey’s schools.

“A school is a symbolic representation of the community,” said West Essex Director of Guidance Dr. Jacqueline Moore in explaining the differences between the West Essex report and other schools.

“When looking at Fairfield, and Roseland, and the other [towns who send students] to our school, you see the problem not only in the school but in the towns as well,” Moore said.

“I grew up in Jersey City, so I had many friends from many different backgrounds. My friends where from all over the place.”

Not all people see the need for diversity in school, however.

Sophomore Thomas DeFranco is

DIVERSITY BREAKDOWN

Ethic Group

Percentage

Caucasian

94%

Hispanic

3%

Asian

3%

African American

1%

-according to the New Jersey Public School Review *Out of 682 students

on the other side of the fence on this issue. “I see no problem with the diversity in the school,” said DeFranco.

“A lot of people look past the color of the skin or the way someone looks. Students look more at personalities,” he added.

“Although some students think that they won’t know how to communicate with someone of another race, due to the lack of [understanding of different] cultures, all

you have to do in that situation, is treat them like you would treat any other human being, [be]civilized.”

But sophomore Igor Ponomarev still sometimes feels left out at school.

“I’m Russian, and in my last school there were many different cultures and people from many different backgrounds, and I got used to it,” he said.

“When coming here, I kind of felt left out and isolated from the rest of the school.”

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“Ignorance” the result

by Jeremy Lim ‘08 When West Essex sophomore John Hong goes to lunch, he does all of the same things that any other student does: he talks about schoolwork, he laughs at his friend’s jokes, and he complains about teachers. However, he can’t help but notice that he looks much different than most students.

While Hong asserts that he is very proud of being Asian, he says he often “feels lonely and alienated” because of this difference. “I don’t re-

ally have an Asian friend I can relate of knowledge about race, Hong has part of minority groups, I think that to at school,” said Hong. The lack been offended but “not because of in- helped them understand what certain of “diversity” at West Essex is an is- tentional malice.” [minority] groups have been subsue that is troubling to some minority Unintentional ignorance may be at jected to.” students, including Hong, who is Kothe root of the “Generally,” students at West Essex rean.

“It doesn’t make me crazy; it’s just strange when most of your friends are white and you can’t relate to them about your culture or heritage,” Hong added.

“Once you get out into the real world, Hong says that generally people are you’re going to have to communicate respectful of his race and rarely is he with all kinds of people--not like here.” purposefully insulted because of it.

However, because of students’ lack

- Sophomore Matt Osman

S

A LL ALL OR

I T Y

problem, however. “[Many] people here don’t know the difference between American Indians and the Indians of Asia,” according to sophomore John Kurimella, who is Indian.

The lack of understanding or “ignorance” regarding people of different cultures makes it difficult for some to fit in, according to junior Victor Fonseca.

“I feel like I’m in one of those movies back in the 60s, where people of color make one token appearance in a predominantly white cast,” said Fonseca, who transferred to West Essex from Newark this fall and believes that environment influences views on diversity.

“In Newark, everything is there… there’s not just one race, like here.”

Seeing mostly students who are predominantly Caucasian at West Essex makes Fonseca “crazy.”

“I mean I’m used to seeing [people of] many different races.”

Fonseca, who is half-Brazilian, halfItalian says that he has been called a “sand n*****” and has been told to “pick cotton” even though he is not African-American.

To combat that type of ignorance at West Essex, students learn, “about immigration, the treatment of certain [minority] groups throughout history, and the Civil Rights movement,” according to Dr. Harry Laub, Director of Humanities. “I can’t speak for every class, but I’m sure there are discussions in class about these kinds of issues.”

Besides studies specific to the curriculum, Laub says that other things have been done to address the issue of diversity. “For instance, last year, we had days where students wore certain colors and were denied certain rights- the right to go the bathroom, to talk, etc.” Laub added.

“Since most of our students are not

are “sensitive, caring, and aware of these types of issues,” according to Laub.

“There have been some incidents where students were picked on because of their race. And some is too much.”

Laub also cited ERASE (End Racism and Sexism Everywhere), a club organized specifically to discuss issues pertaining to diversity.

“The goal of ERASE is to try and eliminate racial and sex-based bias in our school,” according to ERASE advisor Michelle Bryen. She believes that the best way to combat racism is to “make people aware of how it feels [to be discriminated against] and have them want to help people who are suffering through exclusion, harassment and name-calling.”

Despite classroom lessons on issues related to diversity and clubs such as ERASE, West Essex is still not diverse enough for Fonseca. But history teacher Mrs. Nancy Ford believes that the school is “much more diverse” than when she started teaching at West Essex sixteen years ago.

As for why so little diversity exists at West Essex and why the four towns that comprise the West Essex School district boasts so little diversity, Kurimella believes that it speaks to a greater socio-economic issue. “Of course it has to do with money.”

Sophomore Mike Middleton, who empathizes with Fonseca and Kurimella, although he is not considered a minority, believes that “many [blacks] can’t afford to live here…due to a lack of income,” because the West Essex area is “very wealthy.”

“In a poorer community- Paterson, Newark- you’d see more black people,” added sophomore Mike Ryan. (continued on page 16)

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Teens on patriotism through protest and support

by Helen Wang ‘07 Rosa Parks, an average citizen, turned her everyday bus ride into an act of defiance by simply refusing to give her seat to a white man. To most people, breaking the law, as did Rosa Parks with her boldness, may not be linked to patriotism, but mostAmerican citizens now consider Parks to be a patriot for doing just that.

In fact what one person may call an act of defiance may just be an act of patriotism to another. Just ask junior Raffaella Contuzzi. “If the act [of defiance] were to benefit the whole country, then it would be patriotic,” said Contuzzi who considers Parks a patriot.

Parks “broke the law… to fight for the equal rights for African Americans,” added senior Kelliann Mulvihill. When Parks refused to give up her bus seat, “she didn’t know that she would be at the start of a huge civil rights movement, but she helped the greater good of the country by doing so,” said Mulvihill.

Parks is an example of “a good patriot who genuinely wants people in the country to be safer and more protected,” according to junior Alexa Zozzaro.

Even those who do not agree with everything the country does can be considered patriotic, according to senior Olivia Tong who defines a patriot as someone who “does not necessarily need to support everything the country does.”

“People who do not support the war can still support their country,” Tong said.

Although she supports the war, she added, “Nothing’s black and white.”

Likewise, “a good patriot… needs to support our troops, even if he/she does not believe in the war,” added Zozzaro who referred to Cindy Sheehan one such patriot. “[Sheehan] doesn’t support the war,

but she supports sending home the troops for the sake of their safety and well-being,” added Zozzaro.

Zozzaro also believes that West Essex students have a tendency to overlook the importance of patriotism.

Mulvihill agrees and cites the pledge of allegiance as an example. “Most people, especially young people, don’t say it,” according to Mulvihill.

Young people don’t care for the pledge because they have “grown so used to it,” added Contuzzi. “We’ve been taught to say [the pledge] since we were so young,” she added. “It has become tedious.”

Although reciting the pledge could be considered the first patriotic act for young American children, a Californian federal judge has now declared the Pledge of Allegiance unconstitutional, stating that the pledge “impermissibly coerces a religious act,” and “places students in the untenable position of choosing between participating in an exercise with religious content or protesting,” according to a New York Times article, “Judge Rules Reciting Pledge In Schools Is Unconstitutional.”

Yet, those who believe that the pledge is unconstitutional can still be considered patriotic, for they are “upholding the constitution for those who feel that the pledge violates the right of school children to receive education free of religious references,” according to Zozzaro.

Their actions are “for the greater good of the country,” added Contuzzi.

Mulvihill believes that those who want to say the pledge should say it, and those who don’t want to should follow the rules stated in the student handbook.

“Some people do say the pledge with meaning and feeling,” added Mulvihill, who says the pledge every once in while.

New Jersey state law requires a person to show respect for the flag, even if he or she does not believe in it, according to the West Essex Student Handbook.

Someone who is “conscientiously opposed to the pledge or salute,” can abstain from reciting the pledge; however, he or she “must sit or stand respectfully and/or remain silent,” the handbook states.

But, “students in school make serious things a joke or just don’t care,” Zozzaro added. “For instance, when [Student Council] did the experiment for Civil Rights Week… many students did not take the activity seriously and began making racial comments, instead of learning from the activity.”

Nevertheless, “saying the pledge does not make someone patriotic,” said Mulvihill who added that “there are other ways to show patriotism.”

Junior Brittany Dee Mueller believes that respecting the national flag makes someone a good patriot. “It really bothers me when I see people disrespecting the flag,” Mueller added. “[The flag] symbolizes everything before us inAmerica,” Mueller explained, “It also symbolizes all the hardships of our forefathers’ struggle for freedom.”

In sophomore Jenny Wang’s history class, she and her classmates came up with their own definition for patriotism. “[My class and I] defined patriotism as supporting the military, paying the taxes, and voting,” said Wang.

Patriotism also means “loving your country and doing whatever you can do to help, such as serving the nation,” according to junior Elizabeth Sansone.

“I remember when I was eight years old, my brother started training [for the army] and he loved it,” said Sansone.

On the other hand, Sansone believes that students have been patriotic by “bringing in items for victims of Hurricane Katrina.”

“People have been coming together and helping those in need during times of national disasters,” said Sansone.

“ . . . those who believe that the pledge is unconstitutional can still be considered patriotic, for they are “upholding the constitution for those who feel that the pledge violates the right of school children to receive education free of religious references.”

-- junior Alexa Zozzaro -photo by Helen Wang

Rosa Parks: one single act that sparked a movement When Rosa Parks, an average citizen, simply refused to give up her seat to a white passenger on December 1, 1955, she launchedtheCivilRightsMovement.Infact, the United States Congress dubbed her the “Mother of the Modern Day Civil Rights Movement” because she sparked the beginning of a major societal change in the 20th century.

Arrested for her defiance and convicted

of breaking the law, Parks inspired a yearlong bus boycott led by Martin Luther King, Jr. King’s boycott brought the segregation issues to the forefront and forced an end to the “Jim Crow” laws that separated blacks from whites in public facilities.

Born in Alabama on February 4, 1913, Parks grew up in the racially segregated world of Southern United States. In 1932, she married Raymond Parks, and settled in

Montgomery, Alabama, and worked as a seamstress. In 1943 Parks became involved in the NationalAssociation for theAdvancement of Colored People (NAACP) and worked to fight the city’s segregation laws.

For the following five decades, Parks fought for equal treatment of the African American race and established the struggle for racial equality. Parks received the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the highest U.S.

civilianhonor,in1996andtheCongressional Gold Medal of Honor in 1999. During the lastyearsofherlife,shelivedinDetroit,Michigan, where she died at the age of 92 in October 24, 2005.

Upon her death, Parks became the first woman in history to lie in honor at the United States Congress where a statue will be erected in her honor.

by Helen Wang

TO BE PATRIOTIC MEANS TO: “Stand up for your country and “Take pride in one’s country. Just your flag.” - Junior Christina Lucin stand up for what you believe in, but don’t get violent because violent acts “Exercise your first amendment are not patriotic.” -Senior Jess Lim rights such as stating your opinion, whether or not you agree with the “Have love for one’s country and percountry.”

-Michael Sackman forming civic duties such as voting.”

-Sophomore Michael Middleton “Take part in the community, and help out other citizens.”

“Respect the national anthem when - Junior Kathleen Bui you hear it. Wear the national col-

ors on national holidays, like Independence Day.” -Sophomore Angela Rombola “Have pride in one’s country. Fulfill all rights given by the first ten amendments and exercise them to [their] full extent.”

- Sophomore Jessica Quick “Volunteer is patriotic. Help out in

the community fire department.”

-Junior Erik Haversang “…some people, saluting the flag and supporting the army; however, patriotism to me is respecting the American values, such as treating each other equally and fairly, and incorporating these values into everyday life.”- Junior Sagarika Nag

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Breaking our backs for the grades

by Mara Alessi ‘08 Burdened with books and bad locker locations, students are forced to either put up with a pain in the neck, shoulders and back or with punishment by teachers.

Unlike in the halls of Boy Meets Worlds’ John Adams High, all West Essex students don’t have the luxury of socialization in the hallway. Nor do students have time to get an invigorating latte in between classes as Seth and Summer do at OC’s Harbor High School; students at West Essex report that there’s no time to get to their lockers.

“My locker is so far away from all of my classes and because of that I feel like I am always running from my locker to my classes said sophomore, Caitlin McGarrity, who added that she puts up with both the pain of carrying these heavy books and the fear of being punished from the staff.

“I have to put so many books in my backpack because I only [take] two trips to my locker for the day- one in the morning and one in the afternoon,” she added “This makes it much more hectic and more open to teachers’ punishment.”

McGarrity is not alone; students on a daily basis put up with the pain to avoid getting a reprimanded, a tardy or cut slip.

“One of my teachers says that if we’re late more than three times to class, we

get a detention, “according to Tara Shulman.

The majority of students walking through the halls carry their books in their arms in addition to the books in their backpack. This “unnecessary weight” cannot be dropped in their lockers because of the lack of time. “Honestly, if my locker [were] near my classes my day would be less hectic, and I wouldn’t feel as though I [were] constantly rushing around this school,” McGarrity added.

As for socializing in between classes and still getting to class on time, Shulman believes she can’t even think about it. “I have to walk fast, and sometimes I even have to run to get to the math wing.”

In addition school policy requires staff members to take the zero tolerance approach toward tardy students, “…to keep acts of misbehavior and violations of school rules to an absolute minimum,” as stated in the Board of Education policy.

Furthermore, excessive tardiness to class opens a student to the possibility of suspension.

Teachers like math teacher Ms. Erica Phifer do not want their students to leave to go to their lockers during “crucial classroom time.” This ongoing problem is prevalent amongst students who have restricting conditions such as scoliosis. But Phifer has to excuse the same students excused on “a daily basis” to go to their

lockers.

“Students should only be carrying (safely) 10 percent of their weight,” according to David Edell from the Athletic Advisor, a company that provides information on back and spinal injuries to schools across the nation. In fact a 100 lb person should only be carrying around 10 lbs. Otherwise, students will be susceptible to chronic back pain and discomfort.

“I feel that this is a prevalent problem.”

Phifer said. “I have told my students that I will let them know when they will not need their textbooks. They still insist on giving me the excuse that they did not know they needed their book.”

There are alternatives other than excuses, according to Ken Castle of the SanDisk Corporation. High schools across the nation are beginning to shift to digital materials through technological advancements such as the “SanDisk Corporation FlashCP,” which takes the ‘pain in the neck’ out of backpacks, literally.

This technology allows students to have everything they need on one disk: a variety of books and learning materials (science and math textbooks, reading assignments, dictionary, web content, multimedia clips and applications such as a calculator.) Teachers can also download learning modules, homework,

- photo by Laura Umbach Juniors Josh Rosen and Tricia Barnette rush to their lockers between classes to avoid being burdened with books. tests, and study guides for students’ benefit.

Although this alternative may ease the pain, McGarrity is still concerned. “We don’t have all the time in the world to socialize or have the luxury of carrying one book and wearing a backpack that’s not packed like the students in movies and shows,” McGarrity said.

“When the bell rings, we’re in class.”

HEALTH REPORT

Cutting through the “emotional pain”

by Ashley Begega ‘08 Confusion, pain, anger, a razor, and tears are a lethal mixture.

“I was thirteen when I began to cut myself,” said Miranda* because “all the relationships in my life began to fall apart around me.” Feeling trapped, she reported what she called “a certain high” from cutting that helped her escape from the world.

Miranda* whose name has been changed to maintain her privacy, is an ordinary teenager, a daughter, a sister, and a person whom one West Essex student calls a friend, but she also happens to be a cutter.

“People like me, who cut themselves aren’t that different from the person that you see in the mirror.”

Miranda* said. “We don’t eat junk food; we mask our pain [by inflicting] physical pain [on ourselves].”

She added. “Everyone [feels] pain so maybe that makes us all freaks.” But emotional pain hurts the most to Miranda* because it is unpredictable.

“Cutters need help because any type of self mutilation has more to do with depression and another variable, rather than just depression,” according to Director of Guidance and Student Personal Services Dr. Jacqueline Moore.

Since Miranda* stopped cutting, she has been diagnosed as clinically depressed, put on antidepressants, and also placed in therapy which includes family sessions.

“It was a hard fight to get where I am today,” Miranda* said. “At one time I was not able to be left alone and not allowed to have sharp objects.”

The treatment that cutters receive depends on the severity of the diagnosis. “There is also a certain

amount of legal notification that is involved,” added Moore.

“Since the majority of the students at the high school are minors, it is the [school’s] duty to tell parents or legal guardians, in order to protect the child,” added Moore. The process is tricky “because the counselor student relationship is built on trust,” according to Moore, “by telling the parent, that trust could be broken.”

Miranda* admitted to being a cutter at the age of 16. “I was afraid about telling my parents. I was afraid of the reaction that would come when I told people, and I was afraid if I told someone it would get back to [parents],” Miranda* added.

“Once the cutter is noticed by someone and a counselor is notified, [the counselor] will ask questions about how they got those bruises or cuts,” according to Moore who added that someone who is self mutilating is pretty easy to spot.

“Most people who are outsiders [those who don’t cut] feel that this behavior is not normal, and people have a hard time understanding this disease,” Moore said. “I think that sanity is defined by society, meaning that in other cultures it may be perfectly normal to cut or scar yourself, and it is construed as a sign of beauty, but here in America that is just not normal,” she added.

“This is why this disease is hidden instead of treated,” said Miranda* who cited the reason they hide it is the need to feel accepted and normal to friends and family and other people.” Miranda* wanted them to think that she was “just like every other kid in the world,” that she didn’t have a label across her forehead saying “different” or “freak.”

That’s why she let herself cut for so long,” Miranda* said If she were able to get over her addiction, she would have to reveal herself as a cutter, and that wasn’t something that she was ready to do, because she didn’t want to be singled out.

Miranda’s family met the revelation with a mixed reaction when she told them. “My mom was eager to help me, and she never treated me any different,” she said. “I was still her baby,” she added. “My father did nothing to help the situation and refused to look at what I was doing as a condition.”

“When I was finally labeled as a cutter, people were a lot less ignorant about my problem and most people were supportive,” Miranda said. “Though there are always the people who will label you a “freak” because you are different.”

“I will always be a cutter but I never was and never will be a freak,” she concluded. * Name has been changed--student does not attend West Essex

HELP HOTLINE For those with problems such as cutting and suicide who may not be able to afford therapy, hotlines help.

1800-DONTCUT is open 24 hours for help, and the “SelfAbuse Finally Ends Alternative Program” (S.A.F.E.), is an admission to the S.A.F.E. Alternative program which has clinics and programs.

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FALL FASHION REPORT: TRENDS

Punk to Prep and everything in between

by Samantha Lerner ‘06 Where to shop and what to buy.

Luckily, for the 2005 fall season, you don’t even need to leave the house because the “new” trends may already be in your closet.

And the fashionable trends for fall range from bohemian to punk to preppy.

From vibrant greens and oranges, to tall Frye and cowboy boots, and anything velvet, lace, or beaded, these trends from the 70s, 80s, and even last year have come back.

The bohemian look made popular by actress Sienna Miller for her oversized leather bags, tall leather boots, and unique 70s and 80s flair, is appearing in the designs of Marc Jacobs, Michael Kors, and Roberto Cavalli who have all jumped on the bohemian bandwagon.

And stores like Hollister, Lucky, and Urban Outfitters are now selling items like knit tops, high boots, and big bags which fit the bohemian trend.

“I always loved the bohemian style because of its vintage look of big bags and sunglasses,” said senior Violeta Zuberi, who is sporting an off the shoulder sweater and torn jeans.

And if a local thrift or consignment shop is more within your budget, you may just find that vintage item that you’re searching for there.

For those who don’t appreciate the vintage or bohemian look, a cable

knit sweater with Ugg boots and a collared shirt is the better choice for you and is also in fashion.

If the preppy look is your taste, Ralph Lauren Polos are for you.

However, Polos can be expensive, but stores like American Eagle and Abercrombie and Fitch offer more affordable, yet similar styles.

Ralph Lauren Polos cost anywhere between $65.00 and $85.00 a tee shirt, while Abercrombie and Fitch or American Eagle’s collared shirts cost between $30.00 and $40.00.

If you’re into punk, a band shirt with torn jeans and funky sneakers like converse or vans are the right choice for you. Add a unique blazer or even a long beaded or gold necklace, and you will stand out from others; you’ll have the edge.

With Trunk Ltd. Rock & Roll band tee shirts ranging in price anywhere between $82.00 and $260.00, the usual high school student can’t afford these expensive items, but the new Junk Food tee shirts that cost anywhere between $24.00 and $35.00 are within a student’s reach.

To find these “punk” items, go to Urban Outfitters, the Vans store, Hot Topic, and even local thrift shops.

A final word for fall 2005: Don’t be afraid to mix formal with casual; to find your mother’s old clothes and wear them; and to dress in your own style even if it doesn’t fit in only one category.

(Top Left) A Ralph Lauren Polo, a popular prep style for the fall and winter season. (Top Right) The ever popular band tee, compatible with jeans and hoodie for a casual look. (Bottom Left) A Free People shrug, a new fall style that adds a bohemian flare to your everyday look. (Bottom Right) A Free People bohemian skirt to change up your fall wardrobe.

Teens pay for own gas School lacking diversity (continued from page 9)

spends “at least $40 to $50” to fill her car. “[Teenagers] who don’t drive don’t think it’s a big deal, but when you have a car and you’re responsible to pay for it, you realize how expensive it’s gotten,” Berman said.

Gas prices peaked at $3.65 on Labor Day. A year ago, the average price for a gallon of regular, unleaded gas was $1.83, according to AAA. And now that the price of gas has dropped to about $2.30 per gallon (regular), teens are still cautious about how much gas they use.

Teenagers like Lisa, who works at Abercrombie, and Clavin, who worked as a lifeguard this summer, are both cautious about how much gas they use. “I try to conserve enough gas to last me at least a week,” said Lisa, and Clavin said he tries to fill up “once about every

two weeks.”

Clavin, who made money this summer by lifeguarding, also tries to save gas by “using cruise control,” “carpooling,” and by seeking out gas stations he knows to have regularly low gas prices in comparison to other gas stations in the area.

Gioia Garden, a former West Essex student, now a junior and resident of Shaker Heights, Ohio, confirms that the rising price of gas is not just affecting New Jersey.

Gasoline costs approximately $2.73 a gallon for regular grade in Ohio, according to Garden, who will get her license in January and will have no other choice but to drive.

“Everything around here is [far away] so I can’t really avoid driving,” said Garden. “For the people that have to pay for their own gas, it is a huge pain, but a lot of [teenagers here] just have their parents pay for it.”

(continued from page 13)

people,” added sophomore Mike Ryan.

In fact, a study prepared by the New Jersey Department of Labor in 2000 examined the median family and household income of families and single minorities in 21 New Jersey counties.

Statistics showed that in Essex County Asian families had the highest median income at $86,301, followed closely by white families at $76,433.

Blacks however, had a comparatively low income rate at $38,562.

“That’s why you see at least a few Asians here,” added Middleton, “but you don’t see many blacks in our school.”

Ford believes that the lack of diversity goes beyond the issue of class, saying “Some groups of [minorities] may not want to move to an area that is not very ethnically diverse.”

She believes that the lack of diversity could be intimidating to minori-

ties, citing an incident last year when one African-American student transferred from West Essex, partly due to discrimination. “I was very discouraged when one girl felt she had to leave this school because of the treatment she was receiving.”

But does having a diverse ethnic makeup really matter? Laub says, “Absolutely. As we move into this era of globalization, future generations interact more and more with people of other countries. We need to be sensitive and respectful to different kinds of cultures.”

Sophomore Matt Osman, who is Polish and Irish, agrees with Laub.

He stresses that it is important to communicate with all kinds of people, no matter what their race or ethnicity.

“Once you get out into the real world, you’re going to have to communicate with all kinds of people-not like here.”

Kim Chooses In thisInsection: this section: In this issue: Northwestern.........19 Under the Lights.........20 Among the Mugs.....21

Knights shatter Glassboro in state final Cafone. “We wanted to prove that lot.” we were capable of winning the Without key members, though, the title,” she added.

Within 16 minutes, sophomore team would certainly not be the The team last year was “just same. Pantages led the offense of Sam Serpe scored the two goals that would ultimately Hagel, junior Amanda Baretta, make the difference beand sophomore Giovanna tween West Essex and Monacco, who “produce a Glassboro. And the differmajor threat to opponents.” ence equaled a state chamThe midfield, controlled by pionship. captains Cafone and Mianulli, Serpe, a defender who “stopped all forwards,” had only four goals prior to McClain said. Cafone and the championship game, Mianulli were surrounded by scored both goals off pensophomores Jen Silverstein, alty corners. Senior Bettina Cara Silverman, and Arielle Mianulli assisted Serpe’s Schneck, and freshman Ali first goal only 5:40 into the Cassera. game, and Serpe put in the Seniors Lindsay Lawless second off a feed from junand Brittany Schwartz, and ior Deana Hagel with 15:68 junior Robin Miller, “raised the minutes of the first half unlevel of the team this year,” derway. according to Cosse, and Ranked 9th in the state The state champion West Essex Field Hockey team, led by senior captains Gabby rounded out last year’s startof New Jersey, according Cafone and Bettina Mianulli, head coach Jill Cosse, and coaches Diane Simmons and ing team. to the Star Ledger Top 20, Jen Lozito celebrate their victory with their plaque.

Newcomers to the varsity - photo courtesy of Bill Allen, Jr. the Knights lost the county squad this season, seniors Julie final to Montclair (3-2, OT) McClain, Liz Trainor, Danielle happy to be there last season and D’Accampo, and Liz Gennero, and but won the conference and sec- vented goals from being scored. tional titles en route to the state fiBut in fact, each girl on the team that led to our loss” in the state fi- freshman Gianna D’Urso, each “denal. contributed on the road to the fi- nal versus Collingswood, accord- mands her best and practices so Head coach Jill Cosse said from nals. On Thursday, November 10, ing to McClain. But this year, “we hard,” Cosse said. the start of this season that her team in the state sectional final (North had the mind-set to win it,” she Preparation for the final game starts had “tremendous potential,” and I, Group 2), they beat Newton (3- said. during the summer, during which time Time together off the field also each player runs and trains for the potential this season has equaled a 2, OT), and on November 15, conference championship, state beat Madison for the North, contributed to the great teamwork upcoming season. Then, once preand communication that set West season starts, long practices make Essex apart from other schools. the players stronger, faster, and more “The fact that most of the seniors skilled than their opponents.

Forward hang out all the time on the week- A lot of “blood, sweat, and tears” Gabby Cafone, ends and talk off the field is great go into practices, which include drills passes the for our team chemistry,” Cafone that are “intense” and at “fast speed,” ball upfield said. according to Hagel. For this reason, during the Because they have such a “big she thinks that “everybody on the championship senior class” on the team, they all team,” starters and non-starters, degame wanted to “go out on top this year” serve the same amount of credit beNovember 20 since it’s their last year together. cause “everyone comes to practice against And Pantages’ senior season has everyday and never puts anything less Glassboro. given her a new outlook on the than their best into it.” game. She played like any day McClain and Hagel both agree. could have been her last. “I’d think “On the field, we all want to play and about playing today as if it were my win for one another,” McClain said.

-photo courtesy of Bill Allen, Jr. last ever playing and it made me And Hagel, who believes that everysectional championship, and ulti- Group 2 (1-0) and was a game in play better,” she said. one on the team’s has “heart,” noted Just getting to the championship that going into the game, “everyone mately, the state championship title. which the defense, powered by seGlassboro, certainly a formidable nior goalie Jessie Atieh, who has game, however, wasn’t easy. Bol- on our line is strong and standing tall, opponent, could only score once, “stepped up her play in the cage,” stered by the play of senior Kim getting ready to help each other,” and but Glassboro’s tough physical play said Cosse, prevented any Madi- Pantages, who ranks as the state’s Pantages considers this team “one of 2nd leading goal scorer, the team the closest” she’s ever been on. and stick skills kept them in the son attempt from scoring. game.

Perhaps determination, however, beat Wallkill Valley 4-0 in round 1 The team’s closeness leaves the “We knew about their style,” said emerged as the most important in- and Kittatinny 4-0 in the state sec- girls upset that the season is done. “I junior defender Becky McClain, in gredient in the field hockey team’s tional semi-final. love what I do and that I get to play Pantages, a huge threat on offense, every day,” McClain said. And reference to the team’s physicality. success. “This year everyone was “They are a strong team, but if they willing to do anything to win the “really finishes her plays well, works though fans may be able to feel the were going to be physical, then I state championship because a lot hard, and is amazing with her speed team’s electricity from the stands, had to play physical.” of girls were on the field last year and stick skills,” according to Cafone, “unless you experience [being on And she did play physical. [when we] lost the state champi- who added that “she is always mak- the team] for yourself, you’ll never M c C l a i n d r e w a g r e e n c a r d , o n s h i p , ” s a i d s e n i o r G a b b y ing a difference and really steps up a know how it feels,” Hagel said.

by Katie Rosenberg ‘07

equivalent to a warning, for being too physical in the first half. Her toughness on defense and the strong play of Serpe however, pre-

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Division I athletes made at West Essex hard work, and dedication,” demanded by Cosse “is very similar to what is expected in college.”

“Division I field hockey is not a three month seaPlaying the college game means getting players son; it is a year round commitment for four years,” into a Division I school, especially for West Essex said Detroia. “Once our real season ends, we only field hockey players. And that’s what Head Coach get about a week off, and then we start preparing Jill Cosse aims to do. for the next season by lifting and running,” she “The college game is a small passing game, a style added. which West Essex uses,” according to Cosse. “ColPreparation is a must for lege coaches want players who Detroia because “everyone can make a difference right away,” on your college team was and West Essex players have the the best on their high school fundamentals needed to make team and the competition is that difference, according to crazy, but that is what you Cosse. have to love about it.”

“We play like a college team The situation is similar for with advanced thinking and verall top field hockey players satility on the field,” added Cosse, coming out of West Essex. who “expects nothing less than From the 2005 class alone, perfection” from her players.

Jen Miller, Alex Ruggieri and Designed after Princeton’s field Jaclyn DiSanti all are curhockey training program, “the rently playing at NCAA Di[West Essex field hockey] prevision I field hockey teams. season includes the dreaded And Cosse is so confident ‘gauntlet.’” in the abilities of her players The “gauntlet” is a rite of pasthat she believes “by the end sage for any varsity field hockey player at West Essex, and it con- 2005 graduates, goalie Alex Ruggieri and defender Jen Miller fight to keep the ball out of the season, [they] could compete against college sists of a 6:30 mile, a 3:15 half mile, of the goal. Ruggieri now plays for the University of New Hampshire, and Miller plays a 1:30 quarter mile and ten, fifty for Penn State, both Division I schools. photo courtesy of NJ.com teams.”

Cosse believes that the yard dashes in under ten seconds field hockey program at West “When I left West Essex, we were with four minute breaks between each event.

Essex is successful because her players “study and still playing on the grass field, so playing on turf [at While her regimen may seem intense, Cosse’s learn” the game of field hockey. “They know the American] was a big change,” said Detroia who coaching has led players, many of whom have rehistory of the game, and they know that their presattends No. 7 ranked American University. ceived scholarships, to Division I schools. ence on the field matters. When they get their uni“The game was faster and you needed to be more A starter at No. 5 ranked University of North form, they know [they] become responsible for repskillful to play,” she added. The girls who are now Carolina, 2004 West Essex graduate Hillary resenting the people who have once worn that shirt.” playing at West Essex on the turf “have an advanHartman attributes her success at this nationally West Essex field hockey players “expect to be tage,” according to Detroia, who added that they’ll ranked school to Cosse’s insistence on committhe best” and Cosse believes that attitude allows be ready to play on turf once they get to college. ment. “I was pretty well prepared.” players to succeed at the NCAA Division I level.

Detroia, like Hartman, believes the “commitment, Even so, Hartman felt the transition from “high

by Dan Coplon ‘07

school to college was a bit tough.” However “coach [Cosse] always pushed us during practice and games,” said Hartman. “Even though the college level was significantly [better], I was ready and prepared to go to the next level,” she added.

Playing Division I field hockey also presented challenges for 2003 West Essex graduate Caitlin Detroia.

Volleyball loses in second state round: teamwork and effort lead to season success Just ask head coach Andrea Mondadori who has been watching the volleyball team gel for the past two years.

by Jenna Cirangle ‘07 The senior girls wanted to “make the best of their last A recent win against Mahwah in the first round of the year together,” Mondadori said.

State Tournament proved that “chemistry” bonds to- And their best has led them to a 15-11 season record. gether elements that lead to bigger and better things.

“Compared to last season, we’ve improved individually and as a team as a whole,” according to senior captain Krista Rieckert.

In fact that bond between the girls not only added to the whole “chemistry of the team,” but it also led to a No. 17 Group 2 state ranking, as opposed to last year’s unranked team and a no. 7 ranking in the counties as opposed to last year’s no.11.

During the regular season, the team defeated Columbia 2-0 during the Essex County Volleyball Tournament. This county win preceded the girl’s participation in the statewide tournament, where they defeated Mahwah in the first round. However, they lost to Northern Valley Regional Demarest in the second round of states.

Despite their state and county wins, the girls lost to their well-known rival, Huddling up before a match, bonding led the Mendham.Although the girls have “the abilvolleyball squad to a 15-11 season record. ity and heart to beat Mendham,” a team photo courtesy of Andrea Mondadori

that “has always been one of those teams [that] will give us a good run,” according to Rieckert, that game ended in a 2-0 Mendham victory.

The girls exhibited “great team unity on and off the court,” which is “the best” that senior captain Natalie Cerasia has seen in her four years of playing for the school.

“Volleyball’s one of those sports where you’d be nothing without your team,” according to Rieckert. “It requires a lot of teamwork and effort” added Rieckert.

“The girls work together and encourage each other non-stop,” according to Mondadori. “The seniors worked really hard in the off-season, added Mondadori.

“They have definitely shown improvement since last year” Natalie Cerasia who is “best overall,” according to Mondadori joins co-captain Krista Ricekert, Danielle Rubin, Kristen Dalonges and Meghan Haug in the senior starting line up. Junior starter, Brittany Burlazzi contributes as a “powerhouse” with her “amazing blocking skills,” according to senior captain Natalie Cerasia.

First year varsity player Sam Giardelli along with all of the other juniors have “great potential to start for varsity next year,” and “the sophomores will be soon to follow,” according to Cerasia. Freshmen Katie Flynn and Colleen Caprio, who are playing for their first year, are doing “amazing for beginners” according to Rieckert.

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COLLEGE BOUND ATHLETE

All-American chooses Northwestern

by Kristen Ricigliano ‘07

It doesn’t take a professional sports analyst to see that West Essex senior Kim Pantages is something special. Her most recent decision to commit to Northwestern University to play lacrosse on an athletic scholarship that covers eighty percent of her tuition is only one indication of her many achievements. And it doesn’t stand alone.

One of only seven others from New Jersey named as an All American for the U.S Women’s High School Division Lacrosse team during her junior year, Pantages will play with the NCAA women’s lacrosse champions at Northwestern.

Also named an All American for field hockey last year, she earned a spot on the first team all conference all state for both girls lacrosse and field hockey and now Pantages is senior cap-

“Kim is truly a one of a kind player because she is extremely talented, dedicated, hard working, and a motivational leader to others on and off the field.” - head field hockey coach Jill Cosse. tain of both West Essex varsity girls lacrosse and field hockey teams. Not surprisingly, she has been a three year starter and varsity player for each.

In addition to Pantages’s long list of athletic achievements, her performance in each and every game that she plays in is “something alone that deserves recognition,” says Jill Cosse, head varsity girls lacrosse and field hockey coach.

“She puts 100 and 10 percent into each game,” Cosse said. “With a combination of

speed and skills, Kim definitely has a lot of natural athletic ability, however, her stellar work ethic is what allows Kim to perfect her talent and become the athlete that she is every time she steps on the field,” she added.

Inspired by her team and coaches, Pantages commits herself to playing well. “If I don’t, then I let them down more than I let myself

down,” she said.

Cosse, who coached Pantages f o r t h e p a s t three years, understands firsthand why colleges such as Northwestern a n d Duke have been competing to recruit her.

“Kim is truly a one of a kind player because she is extremely talented, dedicated, hard working, and a motivational leader to others on and off the field,” Cosse said.

“Her presence benefits everyone around her because she is a natural leader who pushes others to play to their potential.”

Pantages is excited to going to Northwestern University and to be playing for Kelly Amonte Hiller, currently a member of the U.S National Team.

“She is so respected in the world of lacrosse which makes it that much easier to play for her,” Pantages said. “I know it’s the right choice for me,” she added. “They have an excellent program with an awesome Senior Kim Pantages, who had the team high of 49 goals team and the best coaching this year, doesn’t allow Glassboro’s Bridgette Sands to gain possession of the ball in the state championship field staff in the country.”

Pantages, who made second hockey game at TCNJ on Sunday, November 20th. (see team all Iron Hills Conference front page of sports).

- photo courtesy of Kim Pantages for field hockey as only a sophomore, has been compared to one of the most heralded athletes in sweep to the NJSIAA North Jersey, Section the school’s history, Michelle Vizzuso.

1, Group 2 title, and she broke a scoreless Former West Essex field hockey coach, Linda tie in two of those games, including the titleAlimi, who coached for 30 years before retirclinching 5-0 verdict over Pequannock on ing in 1996, believes Pantages “has the talent November 11, 2004.

Pantages, who scored multiple goals in nine separate games last season, admits that it’s an honor to be compared to Vizzuso, and she appreciates that people call her a “great player,” but she says that she still “has a long way to go in improving her skills before she can actually can consider” herself one.

And Pantages plans on bringing what she learned and contributed during her high school career to her new team.

Pantages, as a junior in high, jumps with the ball around “I think my speed with the ball is a great advanthe Madison goalie’s pads in tage for me, but I still have worked extremely the West Essex 5-2 victory hard throughout my high school career, running, over Madison during the practicing and training, to find my spot on the semi final round for states. team and show my teammates that I have heart West Essex beat Madison and dedication,” said Pantages. again for the North, Group 2 “Nobody gets to where they want to be unless title this year, 1-0, on they work hard,” she added.

November 15.

Her decision to play lacrosse doesn’t mean that she likes it any more than field hockey, but “that’s the way everything worked out.”

“It was one of hardest decisions I’ve ever had - photo courtesy of Kim Pantages to make,” Pantages added. to certainly be the most gifted player to come Pantages and her parents are very proud of through the program since Michelle.” her success; however, she still has a lot that she Although Vizzuso still holds the state records wants “to do and accomplish in the next few for goals in a season (69 in 1994), career goals years,” including ending her “high school ath(145), and points (348), Pantages posted 86 letic career here at West Essex as strong as a points on 33 goals and 22 assists in last fall’s possible.” field hockey season. She scored three goals But, before it’s over, Pantages looks forward and three assists in her team’s three-game to “more state championships.”

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Friday night lights Lights on turf make “new tradition” for Knights to come

by Matt Cohn, ‘08

Casting daylight from high above the turf of the West Essex football field, new lights heralded the Knight’s first home game, as parents flipped the switch to a 31-0 shutout over Summit with money they raised to turn these lights on over Travis Field.

In this first game to be played at night since 1979, senior fullback and linebacker Joe Droz lit up the field for 125 yards on 17 carries, which included two rushing touchdowns.

Then, he added an interception on defense and turned in an overall star performance. Senior tailback Alex Hayes compiled 108 yards on 12 carries, while senior signal-caller Rick Nappi threw one touchdown pass and ran for another on the way to their third consecutive win and a 3-0 record.

West Essex held a 7-0 lead at the end of the first quarter after Droz saw daylight on an 18 yard run into the end zone. Junior cornerback and kicker Mike Cordasco ended a seven play, 66 yard drive with the extra point.

The Knights lit up the field for another 16 points in the second quarter. Nappi took one in four yards for a score himself at the end of an 8 play, 45 yard drive.

An interception and 15 yard return by senior outside linebacker Anthony Picciuto gave the Knights the ball at Summit’s six yard line.

Junior kicker Mikey Cordasco kicked a 35 yard field goal to give the Knights a 23-0 lead going -photo courtesy of John Atura into halftime.

Nappi followed with a six yard touchdown pass to senior tight end Rick Lyons and gave West Essex a 20-0 lead. Cordasco kicked a 35 yard field goal to give the Knights a 23-0 lead going into halftime.

Held scoreless in the second half until the fourth quarter, West Essex relied on star power from Droz to cap off a six play, 58 yard march down the field with a two yard touchdown run. Lyons then caught a

FOOTBALL

Injuries dash Knights’ dreams of a “three-peat”

by J.J McNamara ‘07

Hopesofmakingitto“TheBigDance”andwinning ended on a missed 38 yard field goal attempt by senior punter Steve Zurawiecki with just five seconds left in a game that wiped out West Essex varsity football chances for a state championship three-peat.

Having focused on one game at a time, the team had marched into the state playoffs with a 7-2 record and a 2nd place seed in NJSIAA North Jersey Group 2, Section 2, but plagued by injuries, the Knights lost 13-11 to the HackettstownTigers in the quarterfinal state playoff game.

Zurawiecki, who had successfully completed a field goal in the first half to give his team a 9-0 advantage over Hackettstown goingintohalftime,hadreplacedjuniorstarting kicker, defensive back, and wide receiver Mike Cordasco who had broken his fourth and fifth cervical vertebrae early in the first half.

“When Mike went down, we lost one of our best defensive backs,” said head varsity football coach David Drozjock. “On offense Mike scored our only touchdown of the game,” added Drozjock.

The “high standards” that the West Essex football team had set “in the past,” the two previous consecutive state championships, and the “pressure to win a third” had created “more of a challenge” for the Knights who had never won three championships in a row, according to senior corner back and running back Mike D’Urso.

Racking up wins early on their way to “the Big Dance,” the Knights had sealed their first off Cordasco’s foot on a clutch field goal late in the game to give his team a 3-0 win over Weequahic in a hard fought defensive battle.

But the team could not have anticipated the circumstances thatwouldunfoldduringtherestoftheseason. IntheKnights’

home opener against Parsippany, fullback and linebacker Joe Droz rushed 144 yards on only 13 carries, and senior running back Alex Hayes gained 59 yards just on seven attempts to lead West Essex to a 41-14 victory despite senior RB L.J. Caprio’s injury during the first game.

In week four, the Knights battled previously unbeaten Parsippany Hills to emerge with a 41-14 win. Unfortunately, the Knights also lost Hayes who suffered a broken wrist.

In the Knights home game against Dover in week five, senior quarterback Rick Nappi carried the ball six times for eighty six yards and completed four of seven of his passes for 41 yards and two touchdowns to lead his team to a 2710 victory over Dover.

The Knights also had help from junior running back, fullback John Veniero who stepped up to a 59 yard touchdown and 102 yards on 12 carries to spark the Knights running game. For the Knights to clinch a three-peat, the team would “have to stay focused on the task at hand,” according to D’Urso.

The Knights had relied on defense as their biggest strength, following the costly injuries to their running back core earlier in the season until the last two games of the when injured players returned to the staring lineup.

When the injured players returned, coach Drozjock expected to stay on target because they had “worked too hard and had too many quality players to expect anything less,” but unforeseen injuries stymied their game plan.

“Over the course of the season, we lost one player with a shoulder surgery, said Drozjock. “We had two fractured arms, one fractured leg, a dislocated shoulder and three major ankle injuries,” he added.

“This year, we’ve had more major injuries than all my years put together as head coach,” said Drozjock, injuries which caused the Knights to lose a step.

pass from Nappi for a two point conversion which gave the Knights a 31-0 lead, and that’s what the final score would read.

The West Essex defense, led by Picciuto, who shut the lights off on Summit’s offense with 10 tackles and a pick, held the Summit offense to only 71 yards of total offense with 51 rushing yards and only 20 through the air.

“I think the players were a lot more excited than usual and more pumped for the first game under the new lights,” said Drozjock. “It was an overall great atmosphere.”

Droz racked up eight tackles and also an interception. Tom Grossi, a junior defensive tackle, racked up six stops which included two for losses. Cordasco had three tackles. The West Essex offense played just as well as the defense and gained 266 total yards, with 242 on the ground and 24 yards through the air.

Senior running back Mike D’Urso in the spotlight at Travis Field during a game under the lights made possible by parents’ -photo courtesy of John Atura fund-raising .

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Boys’ soccer state run cut short, team looks ahead

by Tom Grossi, ‘07

Starting the season with “high hopes” and expectations, according to senior captain Matt Detroia, the 2005 boys’ soccer team finished with a record of 11-5-3 before losing in the second round of the state tournament to Cliffside Park.

Led by Detroia and junior Matt Collins, the offense outscored its opponents thirty-seven to eight in its first eight games. Other offensive contributors included juniors Anthony Dalonges and Jesse

Coiro.

The defense, which recorded an outstanding eight shutouts, was anchored by senior captain goalkeeper Kevin Picardo and senior captain defenseman Liam Farrell.

Juniors Taylor Fiscus and Max Custer helped on defense as well.

“We really thought we could do something special [this season],” according to Detroia. The team “played hard” throughout the year, but simply came up short.

“Every year we are looking to take that step forward and be one of the elite teams, we just came up

a little short this year,” added coach Mike Giampapa “Losing to Cliffside Park was definitely devastating because we felt we could really do some damage in states this year,” according to Coiro. Though now that the season is over, the team is “already looking ahead to next year” and thinking about what they can do to “take that next step.”

The team didn’t accomplish what they wanted, but have “very high expectations” for next season, according to Collins. Seventeen juniors, many of whom were key con-

tributors, will return to the squad next season.

Coach Giampapa expects “big things next season,” as does the rest of the team.

The juniors were a big part of this year’s team and should be able to do some “extraordinary things” for the 2006 season, according to Detroia, who will be “really pulling for them,” he added This year’s season left a bitter taste in many of the player ’s mouths, but next year looks promising. “We know that we will have some redemption,” said Collins

AMONG THE MUGS....

Who’s the unsung hero for the fall 2005 season?

Field Hockey Bettina Mianulli ‘06 Varsity captain, senior Bettina Mianulli, is driven and confident both on and off the field, according to field hockey coach, Jill Cosse. Mianulli gets few chances to stand out because her position is one of defense but “her presence is very valuable on the field,” said Cosse. The fact that Mianulli stands up for what she believes makes her a “fantastic captain and role model,” according to Cosse.

Boys’ Soccer Kevin Picardo ‘06 Dave Rasmussen ‘06 Kevin Picardo and Dave Rasmussen, worked together in order “to improve each other’s game,” according to the boys’ varsity soccer coach, Michael Giampapa. Picardo, the senior captain was “an outstanding goalie and made great saves in many games,” said Giampapa. Rasmussen, also a goalie, along with Picardo are both “low key guys who came out very strong for games,” according to Giampapa.

Girls’ Soccer Catherine Serpe ‘08 Sophomore Catherine Serpe, “an amazing goalkeeper,” racked up numerous shutouts and helped lead the girls’ soccer team to the state and county tournament before breaking her jaw, according to head junior varsity coach Sarah Kayal. When she learned she broke her jaw, Serpe did everything possible to play.

She even went so far as to order a face mask so she could play in the final games of the state tournament, even thought she ended up not being able to play, according to Kayal.

Football Ricky Lyons ‘06 Senior Ricky Lyons gives tremendous effort on the football field and plays tough according to football coach David Drozjock.

Lyons is the starting tight end on offense and defensive end on defense. He plays on almost every special team, and he never comes off the field, according to

Girls’ Volleyball Kristen Dalonges ‘06 Senior Kristen Dalonges is a digger for the girl’s volleyball team. She doesn’t get a lot of kills, but she isn’t afraid to go for any ball, according to girl’s varsity volleyball coach Andrea Mondadori. Dalonges has injured herself various times during games and practices but has played through the pain because “she is not afraid to go for every ball,” according to Mondadori.

Dalonges’s great effort and hard work makes her a great asset to the team.

Girls’ Cross Country Jessica Lim ‘06 Jessica Lim is “one of the most dedicated athletes” that cross country coach Shannon Corcoran has ever met. Lim brings a good work ethic and a lot of humor to the team, according to Corcoran. Lim keeps a positive attitude. “You cannot help but like [her],” said Corcoran. “She is hardworking, dedicated, polite, and an all around sweetheart.”

Girls’ Tennis Alair Muzzatti ‘07 Junior Alair Muzzatti played regularly at the second doubles position and ended the season with an 18-7 record. Muzzatti “gave her all to the team,” according to girl’s tennis varsity coach Barbara Bruchac. Muzzatti followed all team rules, exhibited excellent sportsmanship and stayed after her match to support her teammates, making her a role model to her teammates and opponents, according to Bruchac. Although quiet, Muzzatti

Boys’ Cross Country Roger Young ‘06 Senior Roger Young “works his heart out in everything he does.”

Young attends all practices and puts every effort forward to do his best.

Young keeps a positive attitude, doesn’t express negative feelings, he brings a positive attitude to the team. He is dedicated in school as well as on the playing field, according to cross country coach Shannon Corcoran.

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THE SEASON THAT ALMOST NEVER WAS

Four “dedicated” runners reach personal best

by Katie Clavin, ‘07

Although errors in completing the new “state mandated” physical forms led to a halt in the West Essex cross country team’s season about one month after practices began, four “incredibly dedicated” members reached their personal best times at the Conference and county meets.

Seniors Jessica Lim, Roger Young, Chris Pivko, and junior Steve Monin “worked extremely hard the entire season with one goal in mind: to reach [their] personal best,” according to Lim. It was “such an accomplishment” for the team members finally to achieve their goal at their last two meets.

As for their record as a whole, the team was “not able to win any meets because we didn’t have enough people,” according to Young. The number of runners on the team couldn’t compare with other school cross country teams, some of which had up to 30 members.

Despite not placing in any meets, each member of the cross country team “ran extremely well” in

all of their races, Young added.

Since most members of the cross country team ran into “complications” in filling out their forms, the team as a whole stopped practicing until their forms could be completed correctly, according to senior high school nurse Paula Frisch.

Problems with the team’s forms ranged from not handing them in on time, to the amount of time that had elapsed since the date of their previous physical. Aside from not submitting, some cross country team members did not include their doctor’s signature.

“Most parents don’t know where to send in the forms,” says high school nurse, Paula Frisch.

At the time, there was no information about the forms posted on the school website and therefore, Frisch never even received forms from some members of the team.

Frisch also believes that some forms were not filled out correctly just because “doctors do not read them correctly.”

Frisch informed cross country coach, Shan-

non Muller that the kids were unable to practice until their physical forms were approved.

Seniors Jon Kartus and Will Storey, the only two on the team whose forms had been submitted on time and correctly, continued to practice on their own, but Kartus left the team after an illness before practices officially started up again.

Kartus felt that by the time the team could actually practice, he would have been “extremely out of shape.” “I felt that it was just too late in the season to start from the beginning and get back into shape, so I quit,” Kartus said.

A week later, after Frisch made a few phone calls, athletes completed their physicals and handed in their forms, and the team resumed practices after missing only one meet.

Storey, along with seniors Alex Kahn, Greg Pino, and sophomores Jocelyn Steinfeld and Ashley Vegliante decided not to return to the team, however, since they had gotten out of the routine.

GIRLS’ TENNIS

Loss of powerhouse forces team to rebuild

by Jared Prince, ‘07

Even from great distances, Gioia Garden has continued to be a factor on the West Essex girls’ tennis team as her move to Ohio caused a change in the line up and created greater challenges for her old teammates.

Now playing first singles for Hawken High School, Garden’s move forced everyone on the team to step up to play at a higher position than they were ready to handle.

“That’s been the hardest thing this season,” since most of the players are “young and inexperienced,” according to head coach Barbara Bruchac.

Without Garden’s presence, the team has had a tougher time “mainly because she was a guaranteed a winning point almost every match,” according to Bruchac.

Despite the difficulties, the team qualified, once again, for the State Tournament and reached one of the biggest goals the girls set for themselves early in the season. And the success did not stop there.

Dominating Hanover Park 5-0 in the first round of the tournament, the West Essex team kept the victories coming.

“We went out there and played strong with nothing but the state championship title on our minds,” according to first singles player and junior captain Jana Elfenbein.

But in the second round of the states against Bernardsville High School, the team unfortunately fell short. “As a team, we played so well,” according to second singles and senior captain Sam Lerner.

The team made it to the Consolation dence booster,” according to Lerner, “These were some of the best girls that we’ve ever played,” she added. round of the County Tournament and and even without Garden, raised the Playing even better than what their won the final match, a “huge confi- bar for the remainder of the season.

Although she said not having Garrecord read and despite den this season was “a big deal,” “losing at least six tight coach Bruchac is happy with the matches (2-3) to teams way the team responded to the like Chatham and rival problem.

Summit,” according to “These girls deserve a lot of credit, Bruchac, the girls knew and I am proud the way they have that they were “very handled this adversity,” Bruchac close to turning it around said. for next year.” However, The team had “to work much the team had a different harder during the preseason and plan in mind. during the regular season to gain Eager to win, the girls the necessary match experience to transformed those get back to the previous level,” losses in the first half of added Bruchac. the season and in the And that they did. Closing in on State Tournament into their record from last season, the fuel which powered team advanced all the way to the them for the remainder semi finals of the Sectional State of the season. Instead Tournament before being defeated of “turning it around for only one round away from advancnext year,” the team ing to the same spot in which last fought hard in to make year’s team was beaten. the necessary change Second doubles player Alair Muzzatti serves Anxious for next season, plans to in a match against Morristown in the county now. tournament. She and partner Jordan Entin improve the team is a priority, as Although already fowon 6-2, 6-1. the girls are looking into summer cused on next season, -photo courtesy of Katie Rosenberg camps and programs in order to Bruchac told her playbecome a better, closer team. ers that “it is difficult to lose, but you have to concenDOUBLES trate on the bright spots, continue to be positive, and be patient.”

Overall, the team played well and First doubles: was not too much concerned with Jackie Cohn and Becca Rosenberg the loss they suffered to the very Second Team All-Conference highly ranked team in the state, First Doubles County Runners-Up Bernardsville, according to Lerner.

Although Bernardsville moved on to Second doubles: win the State Sectional Title, West EsAlair Muzzatti and Jordan Entin sex boasted quite a few of their own Honorable Mention All-Conference significant victories and achievements.

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GIRLS’ SOCCER

Serpe down, but Knights finish Sectional Champions

by Ryan Logan, ‘08

Locked in an intense 1-0 battle with archrival Chatham, the Lady Knights soccer squad aligned their defense to stop Chatham’s corner kick.

As the ball floated towards the net, sophomore goalkeeper Cat Serpe went up for the jump ball and deflected it away. Junior Stef Sanzari tried to head the air ball out of the penalty box, but the ball bounced off in the wrong direction headed for the net. Serpe leapt up to grab the ball and was struck in the face by the head of a Chatham attacker on her way down.

As she hit the ground, the Lady Knight’s hopes at repeating their championship run in the Essex County tournament fell with her.

“I don’t really remember getting hit,” said Serpe, “but I remember looking up and seeing trainer John and asking him if I would have to come out of the game.”

Serpe left the game with a fractured jaw which had to be wired shut, costing her the remainder of the season.

The lady Knights would go on to defeat

“I don’t really remember getting hit but I remember looking up and seeing trainer John and asking him if I would have to come out of the game.” - Cat Serpe

skipped a beat as the girls lost 3-0 to Parsippany Hills, their first time being shut-out in 14 matches.

In the semi-finals of the Essex County tournament, the top-seeded defending champion’s scoring drought dragged on as the girls lost 1-0 to Nutley in a heartbreaker, which ended their run at the title.

“I don’t know how this happened,” said sophomore mid-fielder Alex Evans. “We were on a roll, and as soon as Cat went down, we just stopped scoring goals.”

With Serpe in net, the Knights had finished off 6 shut-outs in the 12 games she played.

Although they stumbled after losing their standout keeper, the Lady Knights regained their footing and

Some of the starting varsity squad poses for a picture before a game against Hanover Park, in which the girls won, 2-0.

racked up consecutive victories over Summit and Morris Hills. th Gaining steam, the Knights marched into Chatham 1-0 for their 7 consecutive victory. The future, on the other hand, would hold a couple Mendham looking to upset the #7 team in New Jersey, according to the Star Ledger. The talented bumps along the way.

Promising from the get go, the No.1 team in Mendham squad had lost only one game in 20 Essex County racked up 10 wins in the first 12 matches. But, that one loss was caused by the games and earned themselves the No.17 mark in Knights.

In a tough battle whistle to whistle, Riley shined New Jersey, according to the Star Ledger. rejecting 14 shots to earn the shut-out. The ofAfter the injury, however, with sophomore Jackie Riley having taken over the reins in net, fense struggled, but thanks to Riley’s effort the girls the Knight’s march to repeat their 2004 success won the game 1-0 which propelled them into the state tournament on a roll.

With Riley gaining composure between the pipes, West Essex toppled Lenape Valley 3-1 in the semi-finals of the State Tournament. Senior captain Toni Pompei led the way for the Knights on offense putting two goals past goalkeeper Delia Palvichko.

“Cat has helped me out so much,” said Riley after her early miscues. “She’s always encouraging me and helping me do things that I haven’t learned yet or things I just need to work on to make myself a better goalie,” added Riley But to carry over the success from the season into the states, the team has to “keep up the hard work in practice, stay focused, and most imporSenior captain Toni Pompei on the way to gaining control of the tant play together as a team,” ball in the 3-2 playoff win against Whippany Park. according to coach Goodwin.

-photo courtesy of NJ.com

GIRLS’ SOCCER

Winning season despite loss An offense spearheaded by senior captain Toni Pompei and junior Jen Egan kicked off the season scoring 6 goals in the girls’ first three wins.

The Knights defense heavily armored with juniors Meghan White, Carissa Franzi, Stefanie Sanzari and sophomore Chelsea Buening applied relentless pressure which supported sophomore goalie Cat Serpe in not allowing a single shot to get by her en route to three consecutive shutouts.

Coming off of a tie against Par Hills and a loss against Chatham, Toni Pompei got the offense rolling with a huge game against Dover recording a hat-trick.

The biggest play of the season, according to Notte, came in a County tournament game against Livingston. “We were tied 1-1 in overtime, and we had a penalty kick for a foul inside the box,” said Notte.

“Meagan White took the kick and made it,” Notte added. “It was huge because the wind was a major factor, so if she missed we could have lost. Penalty kicks are a lot harder to make than it seems.”

With the guidance of injured goalie Cat Serpe, Jackie Riley, who started the season on JV, recorded two shut-outs in meeting the challenge of playing goalie at the varsity level.

Proving to be their toughest opponent, the Knights earned a 14-3-1 record despite failing to defeat a talented Parsippany Hills squad who shut them out once and tied them in the other match.

New Jersey Sport/Action The state’s largest news sports and photo agency W. L. Bill Allen, Jr. Managing Director We have the BEST photos of West Essex Regional athletes in action! Call anytime, open day and night, seven days a week 973 783-9236 (office) 973 519-7738 (mobile) or NJSportAction@AOL.com

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h s i n i F o t o h P s t r o Fall Pep Rally Sp

The marching band played at the West Essex Fall pep rally, led by seniors Caitlyn Petry and Chris Clavin.

(Above) Juniors Dan Atkins, Kevin Hill, and Rocco Donatiello sing and dance to “Hot, Hot, Hot” in the first annual kareoke contest.

The Class of ‘07 puts all their might into the tug-of-war contest versus the Class of ‘08. Although the juniors did beat the sophomores, they were unable to win against the stronger senior class.

The dance team, which now includes freshman through seniors, performs to their own remix of songs, including “Drop it Like it’s Hot.”

Gym teacher Bill Wosilius looks on as seniors Liam Farrell and Kim Pantages lead the relay race, followed closely by juniors Lauren Katz, Aaron Seabra, and Mike Stefanelli.

Boys’ varsity soccer captain Matt DeTroia rolls to the end the relay race for the seniors, though the junior class won. The relay race included spinning around several times, jumping rope, doing push ups, and crab walking to the finish line.

-all photos courtesy of John Atura