The Wessex Wire (April 2013)

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

Vol. XLVI No. 5

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

April 2013

Erik Maher crowned Mr. West Essex at the fifth annual competition

by Sami Silverman ’14

their coziest pajamas. Some boys dressed of the night was being able to wear my na Students made their way to the senior up in footie pajamas while others sported tive clothing,” Chaveste said. high school auditorium on Friday, Feb. revealing lingerie.

Other contestants came out in dresses, “I just wanted to show everyone why heels, tights and more. Hilaire even 22 for the annual Mr. West Essex it’s more fun to have sleepovers with me dressed up in a wedding gown complete competition. Contestants began the than it is with the other contestants,” with a veil. show by performing different Soriano said. songs by pop bands such as “The the talent portion is what I

The swimwear competi- look forward to most every year,” *NSYNC, Backstreet Boys tion came next. The contestants junior Marisa Racamato said. and Justin Bieber, who came out wearing bathing suits, was impersonated by “This year definitely lived up sunglasses, sandals and other Matt Garvey. to my expectations.”

Following the When Chaveste began he Photo courtesy of Mrs. Blanchardtypical beach outfits, but with a special performance, host and seset the bar high. He sang twist. Maher came nior Dave Kosoy began “Bohemian Rhapsody” out with a bottle of introducing this year’s while performing a dance what appeared to contestants: seniors Jawith fellow seniors, Joey Photo courtesy of Mrs. Blanchard be sunscreen and vier Chaveste, Erik Lavarco, Jeremy Rosen, Chris poured it straight in Maher, Nick SoMartin and Mascera. his mouth. riano, Michael Costa, However, that did not stop the

“I was not expectJonah and Liam Gantz, rest of the contestants from putting ing that to happen,” freshman Anthony Kross, Nour on an incredible show. Mascera Jeremy Augustitus said.

Aly, Mark Mascera, Wyatt performed a Beyonce tribute

Mascera was allegedly Kalb and John Hilaire all wearing a sequence top and skirt going to “wow” the participated in the pageant. combo, thigh high leather boots audience with a pro “Mr. West Essex was easily and a long brown wig. Kross vocative sailor outfit the best night of my life,” Cos- ta said. rapped to the song “Jump” by Throughout the show, a video was until it went missing on comKriss Kross alongside Aly. Maher broadcasted displaying contestants’ an- petition day. performed the song “Call Me Maybe” swers to a series of questions that elicited “If this is true, it was not in German via accordion flanked by humorous responses from the boys. When noticeable at all. Every one of the sophomore Ali Karacay. the Gantz twins were asked “What ani- contestants were amazing,” junior “My favorite part of the night mal would you be?” Liam said, “Poison Jenna Salluce said. by far was Erik’s talent,” junior Adam dart frog, because they’re both beautiful The formal wear came after the Farkas said. “It was hilarious.” bathing suit portion. Chaveste and lethal.”

This year, a new event was added. Evrocked a traditional The next component to the show was ery contestant got a sleepwear. The contestants appeared on mariachi outfit. Contestants from left: Nick Soriano, month of the year stage one by one strutting their stuff in “My favorite part Erik Maher and Mark Mascera. and came dressed

up for a calendar shoot. They sang and danced to “Calendar Girl” as each boy represented his month wearing themed costumes. After that, all the boys sat down and went through a question and answer segment where the judges would ask questions at random.

When asked “What was your funniest memory at West Essex?” Kalb said, “In eighth grade, Ms. Carrasco locked me in the boys bathroom. I was stuck there for two hours and my phone ran out of battery.

They eventually found me in the fetal position.”

After everyone was asked a question, it was time to announce the winner. Mascera was awarded third place, runner up was Kross and Maher was crowned Mr. West Essex.

“It was cool winning and all but I didn’t really know what to do so I kind of just gave an awkward wave,” Maher said.

As soon as they announced the winner, Maher began dancing while the lights turned off on the all other contestants. The show ended with the contestants participating in the “Harlem Shake.” “All in all, it was a successful night for freedom,” Maher said.

Photos by Val Panza

Photos courtesy of Ms. Procaccino

Inside This Issue:

4

Opinion

Head to Head: Gun control

8-10

Arts & Culture

Reviews: Past series, new seasons

April 2013

The Wessex Wire: News

Page 2

Students donate their blood and time to make a difference American Red Cross returns for the fifth annual blood drive They were also encouraged to eat a substantial breakfast and have a good night’s sleep. Donors then proceeded The West Essex Key Club teamed the next day to the high school gym up with the National Honor Society Photo specified

by Val Panzatime to donate one at their on Friday, Feb. 22 to run the fifth pint of blood. annual American Red Cross Blood

“The blood drive was a huge Drive. With the school nurse, success, and everyone worked Ms. Frisch, two clubs and counttogether nicely. [Seniors] less volunteers, the blood d r i v e Adrianna Bertoldi and collected a total of 71 Emilio DeAngelo also pints of blood. made a huge contribu The Essex County Red tion,” Frisch said.

Cross recently started a youth ad Bertoldi and DeAngelo, visory program to encourage both seeking to pursue a medical high school students to fundraise career, were thoroughly involved in and engage in community service. the reOrgacruitnizing i n g Photo courtesy of redcross.org local process, as well as ensuring the actual blood drives, however, is only day ran smoothly. one aspect of their overall mission.

“It was a really gratifying and inter Each donor had to fulfill a weight esting experience. Being associated requirement, 110 lbs for anyone over with the Red Cross really taught me 5’6”, and be in good overall health.

by Victoria Agrifolio ’14

Quiz Bowl team goes to semi finals

how important it was to be involved in helping to save lives. I wanted to get involved because I thought it was important that more people should know how donating blood affects so many people,” Bertoldi said.

Students as well as faculty each had different motivations for donating their blood.

“I really wanted to help people and the community. I knew that what I was doing was for a good cause, which should be a reason for everyone else to get involved too,” senior

Nick Gareffa said.

The goal of the blood drive was to highlight the importance of blood donation, considering it can be used in a variety of ways for people with blood disorders, trauma patients and transfusion recipients.

“I could not have been happier with the outcome, and a big thank you to Mr. Suda and Mrs. Longo for allowing us to put on this event once again and help so many people who are less fortunate,” Frisch said.

Knights reflect on Boston bombings Compiled by Vittoria Contuzzi ’13

Current students and alumni who were personally affected by the Boston Marathon bombings share their stories.

Sahil Amin ’12: “It was scary because no one knew exactly what was going on.

As soon as everyone heard about the bombing the atmosphere just changed. The Boston College campus sort of just died. There was definitely a strong sense of community everywhere. This tragic event shows the sense of community that has developed. As a freshman, this is the first time I have seen what a strong and united city Boston is.”

Ryan Towey ’12: “My first instinct was to get back down to the marathon route near Boston College, so that I could cover any news I could find for my college newspaper. I was scared, but I had heard that runners had been diverted away from the finish line.There was definitely some fear of what would happen next. I don’t feel less safe; we all came together, which was comforting because that’s what community is about.”

Melissa Felcher ’14: “I was petrified. I stopped everything I was doing and called my sister to make sure she was okay. My mom called me hysterically crying out of shock. When I saw the actual bomb go off I just pictured my sister in all of the mess, but she only heard it and saw smoke.”

Photo by Sydelle Barreto

Quiz Bowl advisers and team members pose for a photo before the competition against Mountain Lakes.

by Sydelle Barreto ’14 As the West Essex Quiz Bowl team, made up of seniors Tommy Haversang (captain), Mark Mascera, Eric Maher, Ben Gersten, Jerry Groome and alternate junior Michael Caggiano, advanced on to the second round of “The Challenge” they faced off against Randolph, a win for West Essex, and Mountain Lakes, which was an unfortunate loss.

“Luck did come into play, we lost a power round which was really the luck of the draw,” said Ms. Blanchard,

the adviser for the Quiz Bowl team, along with Mr. Rauch. As the game against Mountain Lakes progressed, the team was getting increasingly fatigued, according to Ms. Blanchard, a fact that was made evident when they missed a simple question about “The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn.”

Unfortunately West Essex will not get a chance to prove their academic prowess next year because “The Challenge” is currently in its last season. Ms. Blanchard said, “It makes me sad. There are promising juniors that won’t even get a chance.”

Anna George ’14: “My immediate thoughts were directed toward my brother who attends Boston College. I was relieved because he was in his dorm room but was still nervous that he was in Boston. It was definitely a reality check in a way. It’s scary knowing that anything could happen at any time so you just have to cherish every second with your loved ones.”

Opinion

April 2013 Issue 5

Editorial

Over the course of this past year, disaster has manifested itself in various communities throughout the country. Ranging from a catastrophic hurricane to an unimaginable and horrific massacre in an elementary school, there is no denying the fact that we have all been tested in our ability to bounce back in the wake of difficult times.

The bombing of a steadfast American tradition, the Boston Marathon, frightened not only the city, but the entire nation. While our initial reaction to such an event is naturally pure terror, we have had to collectively pull ourselves together to lift one another up.

The Wessex Wire staff has been particularly touched by the stories dominating the news, specifically about marathon runners who continued through the finish line and didn’t stop running until reaching the nearest hospital to donate blood to victims. Such selfless acts reflect the American spirit, which we have proven again and again cannot be broken.

Our hearts go out to all who have been affected by the Boston Marathon bombings, including relatives of the deceased, the injured and the community of Boston in its entirety.

While such acts of terrorism are extremely disheartening, especially when committed by our own citizens, we are positive that our judicial system will guarantee that justice is served.

Like so many other tragedies this country has endured, we maintain full confidence that reconstruction is possible and that the American people will resurface united and stronger than ever.

The Wessex Wire Page 3

The College Board

Esteemed company sitting on a throne of lies

by Zoe Elfenbein ’13 Cost of one SAT: $50. Cost of one AP exam: $89. Cost of one SAT subject test: $23. Cost to receive scores via phone: $15 per call. Cost of one’s depleted wallet: not priceless.

According to its website, the College Board first began in 1900 in order to expand students’ access to higher education, as well as to simplify the complicated college application process. Today, the College Board administers numerous exams that are geared towards testing a student’s knowledge and overall comprehension of an area of study.

ject, such as chemistry for instance, he or she has the opportunity to be tested on that specific area through the College Board.

For example, if the student takes AP Chemistry, he or she can take the College Board administered AP Chemistry exam, as well as the SAT subject test for chemistry. The chemistry student, essentially, is paying $112 to take the same test twice.

The College Board can improve their greedy status by offering both an AP exam and SAT subject test, testing the same area of knowledge for one price, say $40, against the normal $112. The College Board Cartoon by Juan Gomez

The Wessex Wire The Official Student Newspaper of West Essex High School A Columbia Scholastic Press Association Silver Medalist Paper 65 West Greenbrook Road, North Caldwell, New Jersey 07006 (973) 228-1200 ext. 258 2012-2013 STAFF:

News Editors Sam DiGrande ’13 Victoria Agrifolio ’14 Features Editors Molly Dickman ‘13 Nicolette DeVincenzo ‘14 Arts & Culture Editors Sam Gilbert ‘13 Geena Martorana ‘14 Photo Editors Valerie Panza ’13 Sami Silverman ‘14

Editors-in-chief Griffin Glenn ’13 Regina Walter ‘13 Opinion Editors Daria Forte ’13 Gaby Roth ’13 Sports Editors Anthony Bertoldi ‘13 Zoe Elfenbein ‘13 Copy Editors Vittoria Contuzzi ‘13 Nicole Lieb ’14 Adviser Ms. Lo

Managing Editor Chloe Butler ‘13 Advertising Editors Dana Domenick ‘13 Monica Onorata ‘15 Layout & Design Editors Shannon McGlynn ‘13 Sofia Haramis ‘14 Contributing Staff Louis Coniglio ‘13 Lucia Pasternak ‘13 Sydelle Barreto ’14 Anna George ’14 Juan Gomez ’14

Wire Editorial Policy The national award winning Wessex Wire is published with supplemental updates to inform, educate and entertain the approximately 1045 students of West Essex High School, faculty and community. Unsigned editorials are the consensus opinion of the editorial board and do not always reflect the views of the adviser, staff, administration and/or board of education. Signed editorials reflect the view of the person whose name appears in the byline.

The Wire serves as a forum for the expression of ideas and opinions of students, staff and community members. We urge readers to write letters to the editor on pertinent matters of concern. Letters must be signed; however, anonymity will be granted if necessary upon request. Members of the editorial board reserve the right to edit all letters to the editor for length or libelous content.

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

College Board indirectly robbing an innocent student of his money.

Although the College Board has centralized the college process, the skyrocketing cost of exams as well as the outrageous sum of money that the College Board rakes in annually takes away from the company’s intent.

The College Board is considered to be a non-profit organization; in 2010, however, the company’s net revenue summed up to an astounding $65.6 million, according to The Huffington Post. The company’s objective to foster the development of higher levels of education for students everywhere is admirable, yet the high prices set for exams and tests are ludicrous.

If a student excels in a certain sub-

can also help students by completely eradicating the price required to send each SAT score to specific colleges, $11, when scores can easily be sent over the Internet.

The College Board aims to further the development of higher education.

But how can a company who encourages students to aspire towards a college education expect its customers to afford the steep cost of exams on top of college expenses?

The college process itself can be stressful and overwhelming, and the College Board only contributes to the pressure with its ridiculously highpriced exams.

April 2013

The Wessex Wire: Opinion

Page 4

Head to head: gun control in America

Pro: bearing arms is an outdated “right” Con: owning a gun is our inalienable right

by Sam Gilbert ’13 The recent gun-related violence in the United States has shed a negative light on protecting gun rights. Beginning with the horrific Columbine school shooting in 1999, followed by Virginia Tech in 2007, the movie theater shooting in Aurora, Colo. and the tragedy at Newtown Elementary School, the issue of firearms has become a prominent subject that can no longer be ignored.

These shootings are not the only incidents of gun violence that prove the malevolence of gun ownership; it is easy to overlook murders and shootings that take place every day.

According to nationmaster.com, there were 9,146 murders by firearms in the United States in 2009, as opposed to countries with firearm bans such as England, which only had 38 firearmrelated murders in 2008. The United States also has the highest rate of gun ownership in the entire world, with an enormous 88 guns per 100 people, according to gunpolicy.org.

While the right to bear arms is a privilege provided by the Second Amendment, it is important to remember that the Bill of Rights is a document that was ratified in 1791; although the text Graphics by Shannon McGlynn

outlines our natural rights as citizens of the United States, certain aspects are simply outdated. Gun rights were established when our country’s only means of defence was its militia, and it was necessary for the people to maintain weapons such as muskets, rather than machine guns, to protect and fight for this country.

The right to bear arms may have been an issue of protecting oneself at the time, but gun ownership is not imperative to ensure one’s safety in this day and age. Technology has advanced over the past 200 years, and investing in a home alarm system seems to be an easy replacement for a loaded gun stored “safely” in one’s home.

How many more shootings can this country endure before action is taken?

The only way to make a positive change is to create legislation and overturn the Second Amendment. Yes, the Constitution provides the right to bear arms, but it also guarantees in the Ninth Amendment: the natural rights we are born with and cannot be stripped of.

The right to bear arms has been stripping American citizens of their natural rights to life, liberty and happiness for too long, and the time has come for the United States to reevaluate the role guns play in our society.

by Regina Walter ’13 The Second Amendment states that citizens have the right to bear arms. One would be foolish to deny the horrors of all the school shootings that occurred within these past few months. If we break down these shootings, however, they all have one thing in common: a criminal who has broken United States laws.

And while, on the surface, imposing stricter laws may seem like an easy way to prevent mass shootings, what is the difference to a criminal if he breaks two or four laws? If Congress poses a universal background check, no criminal, whose intentions are already to break laws, would participate in this test and expose their ownership to the government. And who is then to say that this list can’t be used as a threat to national security?

According to gunpolicy.org, there are approximately 270 million privately owned firearms currently in the United States. So if Congress violated the Second Amendment and banned the sale of guns next week, it would take years to rid society of the firearms currently in circulation. If Congress then demanded confiscation of the weapons, they would be violating both the Second and Fourth Amendments.

Most importantly, let us not forget that President Obama and his vice president have been comfortably enjoying the secu-

rity of armed protection for several years.

Coming from a team that proposes great opposition to the Second Amendment, perhaps the administration should practice what they preach. If the president wants the security that guns offer, then the American people deserve to want the same.

Increased gun ownership also does not always correspond to an increased crime rate. Back in 1976, Washington, D.C. placed a ban on handguns at home. According to the New York Times, the crime rate of Washington, D.C had actually risen by 2008 since the ban in 1976. If no direct relationship can be established between gun ownership and crime rates, then there is no reason for Congress to automatically infringe upon our rights.

The problem could lie within the decrease in federal arm prosecutions.

According to the National Rifle Association (NRA) CEO Wayne LaPierre, 2011 federal firearm prosecutions per capita were down 35 percent from their peak, meaning that the current administration is not doing much to maintain the effectiveness of the current gun control laws.

If we want to increase the safety of schools, the facilities must be secured the same way stadiums are. That is, of course, with armed policemen enforcing the laws we currently have in place.

Roommate search is on and more stressful than ever

by Chloe Butler ’13 The end of senior year marks the start of many new beginnings, and as college nears, seniors will start to reminisce on past friendships and look forward to new ones.

Before arriving on campus it is important to find that one person to establish a new and exciting friendship with - your roommate. Thanks to social media, finding a roommate no longer entails crossing your fingers and praying for someone normal to be standing in front of you when you first walk into your dorm room.

Now, anyone can log onto Facebook and immediately connect to thousands of prospective students all looking for roommates. At first it may seem like an awkward first date with the uncomfortable “so tell me about yourself” conversation, but it ultimately provides insight into the person you could be living with for the next four years.

“I was searching for potential roommates on Facebook when I began talking to a really cool girl who was a lot like me.

A few hours later, I got a frantic message

cated to finding roommates and matching

Cartoon by Juan Gomez

saying that she was my cousin. I guess that explains why we were so much alike,” senior Steph D’Ascoli said.

Websites like RoomSurf.com are dedi-

compatible prospective students.

“I loved that RoomSurf allowed me to take a survey that matched me with someone who was just like me. It was so

simple and stress-free; I really can’t wait to live with my roommate next year,” senior Simone Furhman said.

Although meeting your roommate before college begins has its advantages, some argue it can be detrimental as well.

Truthfully, how well can you know someone over Facebook?

For this reason, many colleges, such as Bucknell University, don’t allow students to request roommates, and instead play matchmaker to make it fair and relieve some of the anxiety involved in finding a roommate.

“The thought of searching for a roommate online is stressful, which is why I decided to let my school match me with a random roommate,” senior Kelly Egan said.

Like any new adventure, there may be issues to overcome in the roommate search; but once everything is figured out, a roommate has the potential to be a life-long friend and a memorable part of one’s college experience.

April 2013

The Wessex Wire: Opinion

Page 5

Junior parking solution Staying above the influence

by Nicolette DeVincenzo ’14 One of the greatest and most anticipated privileges of senior year is the ability to drive to and from school.

As a junior with the ability to carpool with my friends, it is especially infuriating when juniors are punished by the administration for simply filling the spots that most seniors leave behind when they travel to Senior Service in May. The senior parking lot is a community parking lot entitled to only seniors and staff. Although the lot may be filled with havoc during the first few months as seniors get accustomed to sharing parking spaces, the privilege is short-lived once the end of May comes around. As seniors get dismissed from classes and finals, it is only logical that any licensed underclassman should be able to park in the vacant lot.

The administration refrains from allowing juniors to simply receive parking privileges a month early because of the lack of parking spaces.

“We would love to give every student their own spot but that’s clearly not possible, so until then, the

parking will only be allowed when equally available to everyone,” Dean of Students Mr. Diliberto said.

We are extremely fortunate to have our own parking lot, as opposed to finding parking on the street, and we should utilize the opportunity granted to us.

“I had a gap in my finals schedule last year and I wasn’t able to leave for break because I didn’t have my license. If that happens this year I still won’t be able to drive regardless if there are open spots because juniors aren’t permitted to park in the lot.

It’s a hassle that can be easily solved if the administration just grants us the permission of a first come, first served basis during finals,” junior Andie Silverstein said.

The parking lot is intended to aid students in an easier journey to and from school, but there is no reason that it should be a privilege given exclusively to seniors at the end of May when most of them leave for Senior Service.

As long as students arrive to school on time and in an orderly fashion, parking on a first come, first served basis should garner no objections.

More than just a health lesson

by Daria Forte ’13 We all know that drinking and driving is illegal and outrageous. Statistics can prove how horrific it actually is; however, it’s not as effective as hearing a story about such an experience.

“My grandpa was a fireman and told me a story about a car accident scene he was called to once and he found one survivor, which was the driver, crying with his head in his hands. The only thing the kid could say was that he didn’t know how he would live the rest of his life knowing that he was responsible for the deaths of his friends and an innocent man,” sophomore Kimmy Shaw said.

According to alcoholalert.com, a life is lost every 20 minutes due to intoxicated drivers. It amazes me that drunk drivers are willing to put themselves, their passengers and other drivers on the road at risk.

No drunk driver wants to learn from his wrongdoings the hard way; however, it unfortunately takes a tragedy for the driver to really see how he has impacted so many lives due to poor decision mak-

ing while being under the influence.

“A family friend of mine went to a college party with her friend, and her friend got carried away and drank and then decided to drive somewhere afterwards and they crashed into a curve railing. My friend broke her arm and the driver was in a coma for a week,” senior Christina Gavdanovich said.

In order to decrease the number of alcohol related accidents, drivers must have a better judgment before they step foot into a car. They need to realize that this could potentially be an action that they will regret committing after it occurs.

It’s not only the responsibility for the driver to stop himself, but for a bystander as well. These observers can grab the keys from the driver and convince him that it’s too dangerous for him to be out on the road. It’s small actions like these that will help avoid deadly accidents.

With better decision making and more effort put forth by organizations like Students Against Drunk Driving (SADD), maybe we can all see a day when drunk driving doesn’t appear as frequently on the news and in newspapers.

New mindset for incoming college students

The facts that new college students should be aware of and why they are useful

by Vittoria Contuzzi ’13 Present-day college students now have to go into their college years with a completely different mindset than years ago. Students are concerned with the jobs that will be available to them after graduating and, in most cases, if they will be able to pay off their costly student loans while living a comfortable life.

Students who choose their majors early in their college years should be educated on the growth of jobs if they want to choose one that they will be successful in and at least happy with. Certain careers are expected to rise and students should be on the lookout.

“The reality of it is that if fewer people look for work, then fewer people are going to be in the work force, which accounts for the fluctuation in the unemployment rate. Is this a good thing? If you put it into perspective, and the unemployment rate actually does decrease to 7.5 percent, then more jobs will become available,” Mr. Woodworth, macroeconomics teacher, said.

Registered nurses, physical thera-

are among the fastest expected grow- and petroleum, is the way to go in the ing jobs in the U.S. for the coming future according to stories that I’ve years, according to usnews.com and read. Those are the jobs that most people will get fresh out of college,” Woodworth said.

Employment for Recent College Some students have already planned Graduates: Oct. 2011 or have a general idea of which major they will be declaring for college.

“I’m choosing business administraInformation taken from The Atlantic tion right now but I’m really not sure.

I definitely want to pick a major that allows a wide range of job opportuni6.90% ties,” senior Alyson Petronchak said.

Others, however, are not as con9.20% Out of the Labor Force & Out cerned with the aspect of picking an of School undergraduate major based on the Out of the Labor Force & In security of career life in the future.

11.30% School “Some industries will boom and Unemployed need jobs, while others will close off and become irrelevant, therefore not needing as many workers. My Employed 72.60% ideal major is entrepreneurial studies which involves a fair amount of risk on its own,” senior John Giuffre said.

It is crucial for young adults to Graphic by Daria Forte think seriously about a major aspect of life that is subject to change at any time: jobs. The first step to this part to usnews.com. In addition to engi- careerplanning.com. neers, occupations such as personal “The truth is that college graduates of life is more likely than not chooshealth aides, physician’s assistants, have to make themselves marketable. ing an undergraduate major and being financial advisers and veterinarians Engineering, specifically chemical open-minded about it. pists, pharmacists, medical assistants and software developers were some of the “best jobs” of 2012, according

April 2013 Issue 5

Feature

The Wessex Wire Page 6

The most fascinating seniors of West Essex Certain seniors with pursuits worthy of a spotlight

by Gaby Roth ’13 We know about his athleticism, her infatuation with theater, his high intelligence. These classmates exist within the walls of our school, but their captivating characters are breaking well beyond these confines.

Steph D’Ascoli: In addition to being a star athlete, senior Steph D’Ascoli recently completed her training to become a Zumba instructor. With the Zumba Fitness program, D’Ascoli learned the basics of the Colombian dance fitness program. “I took Zumba classes for a while and my instructor told me I was good at it, so she offered to help me with my routines. Then, I took the eight-hour class to get my certificate,” D’Ascoli said. She will be working three of four days a week at 360 Fitness in Fairfield after Lacrosse season. “Zumba is so much fun and it doesn’t feel like a work out, but you burn up to 800 calories in one class!”

D’Ascoli said.

John Giuffre: Senior John Giuffre is the CEO of his own online

business called GearTested. The profitable. I took the idea and ran company is an outdoor lifestyle re- with it.” The website launched on view website that reviews products July 3, 2010 and had 250 visitors by companies including Ray-Ban, that month. Since then, GearTested R o l e x stands now and Sperat 16,000 ry. These visitors compaper month, nies send includG i u f ing people fre their from all 50 products states and for free 37 foreign for him countries Photo courtesy of Katie Photo by Val Panza Minden to review. last month.

W h e n Brittany a s k e d Blue: Sehow Giufnior Brittafre came ny Blue exup with cels in varithe idea, ous forms he said, of art. AcPhoto by Anna George “I was incording to Photo courtesy of Allison volved in Photo by Anna George westex.org, Freeman Clockwise: Katie Minden, Brittany Blue, Steph D’ Ascoli and John Giuffre exceed in talents beyond the high school.

cycling through a race team I was she “will be presented the prestion. I saw the opportunity to start gious Governor’s Award for Excelsomething that could be really lence in the Arts” in May. “Art has

always been somewhat of a personal experience for me and I’m really just now starting to realize the opportunities available with it,” Blue said. She has been drawing since she could hold a crayon, but her art endeavors have only just begun.

Katie Minden: Katie is highly involved in missionary work in which she travels with her church to aid foreign countries. Minden started through her youth group at the age of 10 when her family went on a trip to Juarez, Mexico. Katie has been to Mexico, Trinidad, Honduras and Ghana to work with the people and share Christianity.

“In Trinidad and Honduras we worked on the construction of an orphanage, and while in Mexico and Ghana we worked on a school building,” said Minden. This summer, Minden is heading to Guatemala by herself to live and work in an orphanage for the month of July. “They’re truly the best experiences of my life and seeing how these people live without much but are still happier than most people in the United States is inspiring,” said Minden.

A change of heart and a new career for faculty members

by Vittoria Contuzzi ’13

It’s often strange for students to realize or even think about their teachers’ lives outside of the classroom and how they found this career.

Dr. D’Meo, a chemistry teacher and NHS teacher of the year, was already getting her PhD in chemistry at Rutgers University when she decided to apply for a dentistry program at Columbia University.

D’Meo completed her program successfully, later having her own dentistry practice for about 10 years until she became allergic to latex.

“I had no idea what I wanted to do next. I ended up doing an alternate route for teaching, and became licensed to teach chemistry, biology

and physics. I used to miss dentistry, but not anymore,” D’Meo said.

Mrs. Blanchard, a U.S. history teacher, has always felt a strong connection to teaching. During graduate school at the University of Chicago, she enjoyed working with professors but realized working as a researcher was not her calling. Instead, she held a strong interest in the stock market, money management and how to plan for the future, which landed her jobs at Wachovia Securities, Wells Fargo and Janney Montgomery Scott.

During this time, however, Salisbury was tutoring students for AP History exams and SATs, which gave her a rewarding satisfaction that attracted her to become a teacher.

Ms. Thom-Carroll, a calculus teach-

er, first studied chemical engineering as an undergraduate at Carnegie Mellon University, got her MBA at Rutgers University and further got her master’s degree in teaching at Montclair State University. Thom-Carroll was constantly changing careers.

Although Ms. Thom-Carroll held an important role in corporate business, she still wished for a job more meaningful following 9/11. She always thought about teaching, and finally got a degree for it while still juggling her previous career. “Teaching is one of the toughest jobs I’ve held so far, but I’m happy,” ThomCarroll said.

The event of 9/11 also made an impact on Ms. Dolce, primarily a biology teacher, who studied biology/

pre-medical at Montclair State University and later got a master’s degree in molecular biology there. With two years in between, Dolce became a forensic technician at the Regional Medical Examiner’s Office in Newark, N.J. “It was a bit more than I could tolerate, so I went an opposite path and worked for Ketchum, a public relations firm in New York,” Dolce said.

Dolce decided to go to graduate school, fortunately full-time, after 9/11 happened. While being a graduate assistant for undergraduate labs, Dolce loved being in front of a class and planning lessons, which made her take an alternate route in teaching. “This is the most fun I’ve had. It’s where I belong and I’m not ready to leave the classroom,” Dolce said.

April 2013

The Wessex Wire: Feature

This year, West Essex’s junior

prom was held at the Valley Regency in Montclair on April 19, 2013. Some popular fashion trends included long chiffon dresses, white and gold combinations, red dresses, lace dresses and sequined gowns.

This year, many of the junior girls used traditional and classic dress ideas, but amplified their looks into trendy and chic ways.

Red, white and pastels were the

Page 7

popular color choices of the night.

Many were embellished with gold accents and jewels.

Bowties were very popular at prom this year. Boys wore a variety of brightly colored bowties to match their dates’ dresses.

Natalie LaSpisa and Greg Contaldi were voted Prom King and Prom Queen by their peers. LaSpisa wore an elegant one-shoulder dress and Contaldi accessorized his tux with a red vest.

Hot yoga, hot new trend A new look for an old practice

by Molly Dickman ’13

Photos by Val Panza and courtesy of Alison Hale, Jackie Sollitto and Ashley White

There is a false pretense that yoga is all about relaxation and making weird sounds while one breathes. This ancient practice has been revamped to be an intense workout that tones all parts of the body with an added level of difficulty: intense heat.

Vinyasa Yoga is practiced in a room that is between 98 and 108 degrees.

It consists of sequences of postures that are synched to breath and a class lasts for about 90 minutes.

All of the classes are set to relaxing music that help to distract the mind from the pain the body is going through in some of the more difficult poses. An average of 594 calories are burned per an hour long class, according to fitsugar.com.

YOUnique Yoga, located on Pompton Ave in Cedar Grove specializes in this type of hot yoga. Classes are $10 and are open to all experience levels, with the teachers offering different options for more or less intensity during each pose, allowing for everyone in the class to move at their own pace. They have mats available to rent for $1 in case first time yogis want to make sure they like it before going and purchasing a pricier mat, ranging from $20 to $60.

Water and a towel are a must. Each class is 90 minutes, with some classes being less hot but most prefer the heat.

“I think hot yoga is better than regular because its more of a challenge and I feel more refreshed then I would taking a regular yoga class,” senior Adrianna Bertoldi said.

Be Evolution studio in Montclair is also another great option. They offer many different classes including multiple types of Vinyasa Yoga and Gentle Yoga, a less intense form of practice. There is a Shakti room, which is around 78 to 80 degrees and a Shiva room which is heated to about 105 to 107 degrees. Beginners are welcome at all classes and in both rooms, with the heat being something that is adjusted to over time.

They are currently offering a new members special that is a month of unlimited classes for $35. For newcomers and experienced yogis alike, there is a boutique attached to the studio that sells everything possibly needed for yoga.

No matter if you have perfected your tripod headstand or if you have no idea what a downward dog is, yoga is an open practice with everyone in the class and the teachers willing to aid in making sure you have the best and most fulfilling experience.

It’s a cheap, fun, physically engaging and emotionally stimulating alternative to the gym.

Photo by Val Panza

April 2013 Issue 5

Arts

&

Culture

Art Hi s tory annual mural competi t i o n Artistic prowess of West Essex students on display

The Wessex Wire Page 8

Levine proves he has the “Moves Like Jagger”

as “Daylight” and “One More Night,” they included some older hits. During Maroon 5 attracts the most dedicated “Sunday Morning” the backdrop screen tween, teen and adult fans worldwide. showed a window with a see-through Walking into the Izod Center on Feb. view of rain covering skyscrapers of 28, there was a wave of energy bursting a city. Levine walked back and forth through the doors, as everyone couldn’t through the “rain,” effortlessly singing wait to hear their favorite group perform the soulful lyrics of one of my favorites.

As if on-stage cameras, black and their favorite songs. white screens, intense pyrotechnics and a stage shaped like the band’s logo weren’t

enough, a huge bridge

lowered from the ceiling connecting the

main stage to a platOwl City and Neon form in the middle of Trees opened up the the floor. show. Usually concertLevine and guitargoers are impatient ist James Valentine with opening acts, only walked across the caring about the headbridge to the platliner. However, I was form for an upbeat pleasantly surprised Photo courtesy of Sarah Moyer version of “She Will by how entertaining A stage in the shape of Maroon 5’s logo Be Loved.” Levine both groups were. later transformed My sister and I were lights up the arena prior to showtime. into a conductor able to sing along to songs like “Fireflies” from Owl City, and who directed two sides of the arena to “Animal” and “Everybody Talks” from sing separate parts of the song at the same time, as if the audience was one big choir.

Neon Trees.

When the lights went out for the third The 16-song set list was impressive, as time, deafening screams filled the arena, the group barely stopped to breathe, but only interrupted by the sound of change continued to execute each song perfectly. dropping into a coin slot and a phone ring- Confetti covered the seats after “Moves ing until the call went to voicemail. This Like Jagger,” and the boys took a bow on of course signaled the start of Maroon 5’s stage. We fans didn’t want to believe the show was over. Oh well, I guess “Noth“Payphone,” which opened the show.

In addition to performing songs from ing Lasts Forever.”

5 out of 5 stars their newest album “Overexposed,” such

by Geena Martorana ’14

Review

Photos by Lucia Pasternak Art History students showcased their talents in the annual mural competition where the artists recreated famous pieces of artwork. The winning mural, “Collective Invention” by Rene Magritte, drawn by junior Madison Mastroberte, junior Sarah Jacobson, senior Chris Mei, sophomore Ariana Daly and junior Alejandra Torres, depicts a half-fish, half-human hybrid as it washes upon the shore. Also pictured: (clockwise) “L.H.O.O.Q.” by Marcel Duchamp, “Champs De Mars” by Robert Delaunay, “Liberty Head” by Peter Max and “The Flower Carrier” by Diego Rivera.

Underrated delicacies: top five delicious and forgotten foods

by Zoe Elfenbein ’13 Oatmeal

Oatmeal definitely gets a bad reputation because of its chunky consistency and blob-like resemblance. However, a piping-hot bowl of oatmeal on a cold day soothes any frostbitten body. Not to mention, it can be eaten at any time of the day, as well. My special favorite is Quaker Oat’s Dinosaur Egg Oatmeal, which is sprinkled with edible dinosaur eggs that dissolve into sprinkles when hot water is added. I also like to add spoonfuls of peanut butter into my oatmeal to create a delectable concoction that makes for a great snack.

Raisins To outsiders, raisins look like old people: wrinkly and shriveled. But they are surely

mistaken; raisins are a delicious treat that are insultingly underrated. They can be eaten by themselves as a small snack, or even combined with other foods to make unique meals. For me, I love a handful of raisins in my cereal or sometimes with a spoonful of Nutella.

Meringue Cookies

Meringues are a unique type of cookie that easily top commonplace generic snacks. Although high in sugar, meringues are relatively healthy with

only 30 calories per cookie. The eggwhite batter makes the texture fluffy and mouth-watering. Miss Meringue, a brand that specializes in meringue-making, has a myriad of flavors ranging from cappuccino to mint chocolate chip. Look out Chips Ahoy and Oreos, because Miss Meringue is here to stay.

Avocados Avocados are easily the most delicious fruit. Their subtle, yet unique taste allows avocados to easily be added to various dishes. Diced up avocados go great with salads, sandwiches and even omelettes.

Avocados are not only tasty, but they also contain healthy vitamins, like vitamin B, vitamin

E and special fats that benefit eyesight and bone development.

Roasted Seaweed Sheets Beware sushi lovers: roasted seaweed sheets are dangerously addicting. Seaweed sheets are basically the seaweed used to make sushi rolls, except toasted to add a crunchy, crispy texture. At 10 calories a sheet, roasted seaweed proves to be a healthy snack that never bores. These salty treats can be found at local organic markets, like Trader Joe’s.

Photos courtesy of eatingoutloud.com, clovisindependent.com, cookie-carnival. blogspot.com, performancenutrition101. com and juniakk.blogspot.com

April 2013

The Wessex Wire: Arts & Culture

Season two of “Girls” impresses Raw entertainment at its finest

by Gaby Roth ’13

The complexity of Hannah’s life this sea Season two of “Girls,” which premiered son is balanced out by increased focus on other characters. on HBO Jan. 15, was It was refreshing one of the most daring to seeAdam date yet spectacular shows Natalia (Shiri to appear on television Appleby), somein recent months. Writone less quirky ten and directed by star than Hannah, Lena Dunham, the sePhoto courtesy of tvrage.com and Shoshana ries explores internal struggles in an honest Catch Hannah and her misfit friends on “Girls,” (Zosia Mamet) and Ray’s (Alex way that keeps viewavailable online on HBOGo Karpovsky) relaers eagerly waiting for tionship provides Sunday nights. a sweet sense of love throughout the season.

Dunham’s acting and writing were well deserving of two Golden Globes. Dunham effectively portrays Hannah’s character The season opens by revealing Hannah spinning out of control toward the end of (Lena Dunham) with her new boyfriend the season, yet still manages to keep the Sandy (Donald Glover). She is living with character’s humor constant.

“Girls” continues to show the comical realiher gay ex-boyfriend, Elijah. As the season progresses, we see ex-boyfriendAdam (Adam ties of life with unbridled truth. Perhaps one Driver) go to extreme lengths to win back of the most memorable lines from the season Hannah, culminating in the issuing of his is Hannah’s explanation of “I feel how I feel when I feel it,” a sentence we so often wish to restraining order.

With her time away from Adam, Hannah provide as reasoning for our emotions. takes more time writing a book. For inspira- The one problem is the frequent nudity, tion, she engages in activities such as going to which can make the viewing experience raves and having a relationship with a 19 year uncomfortable. However, I found myself old boy. The stress of writing a book leads to enjoying the season more and more as it prothe return of Hannah’s OCD, causing her to gressed, while laughing with the characters as do everything in sets of eight, such as blinking they laughed at themselves.

4 out of 5 stars and knocking on a door.

Review

Page 9

“Shameless” ushers in new season Showtime series takes shock value to a new level

by Griffin Glenn ’13

side slums of Chicago.

There has been a major shift in recent years The best way to describe “Shameless” is in television viewership from network to pre- a dystopian “Modern Family.” The Gallaghmium stations. HBO has always been able to ers as well as their associates fit nearly every corner this market with programs that cover a demographic, with characters ranging from myriad of topics, but recently Showtime has a bipolar mother, an alcoholic and drug adhad the audacity to challenge HBO’s domi- dicted father, a gay son, a certifiable genius nance and vie for premium cable supremacy. and a black toddler. Additionally, there is an Their recent surge in popularity is due in large obsessive compulsive mother down the street part to series such as “Shameless,” which is with a significantly younger boyfriend in its third season and is currently airing at 9 who helps her look after her grandson with Down Syndrome. p.m. on Sunday nights.

New complications arise such as Fiona’s

transition from primary caregiver to guardian and essentially the mother of her five younger siblings.

As the show The first progresses, limtwo seasons of its are pushed to “Shameless” shock the audifocused on the ence, but there Gallagher famare moments that ily. They are a one cannot ungroup that has see. “Shameless” truly redefined is still worthy the meaning of of being part of the word dysanyone’s televifunctional. With sion repertoire. two absentee Photo courtesy of watchbesttv.com parents, the el- Meet the new “Modern Family:” a bipolar mother, But fair warning, dest sister Fiona a drug addicted father, a gay son and a genius toddler. there is nothing that “Shameless” (Emmy Roswon’t show, so sum) is forced to run the house and manage her five the squeamish should definitely steer clear.

3.5 out of 5 stars younger siblings while living in the South-

Review

Review: Veteran cast provides standout moments in “Sweeney Todd”

name, Sweeney Todd, and hopes to seek revenge on the men that ruined his life.

The Masquers of West Essex came to- The show opened with two main gether for the spring season to present the characters, Epstein and Anthony Hope musical “Sweeney (Joey LaVarco) Todd.” With their conversing about high reputation, their travels that I was expecting ended with them in a spell binding London once more. production, full of Dialogue began the life and immense show with confuappeal. Unfortusion, and upon asknately, because of ing the person next a few issues, the to me what was production did going on, I realnot quite reach ized she was just as my expectations. confused as I was.

The story of With misunderPhotos by Val Panza “Sweeney Todd” stood background follows the life of At the heart of “Sweeney Todd” is the star- information, I rea barber, Benjamin crossed love story between Anthony and mained baffled durBarker (Mitchell the beautiful Johanna. ing the production.

Epstein), who is The tech crew banished from also faced a few London after his wife, Lucy (Sarah Ma- technical difficulties. Microphones would son) and daughter, Johanna (Jacqueline occasionally turn off on lead characters Thomas) are kidnapped. Following his such as The Beadle (Anderson Wang). return to London, Barker creates a new The overall length of the production was

by Victoria Agrifolio ’14

also an issue. An hour and 15 minutes al- ones that shined, including Pirelli (Mark Mascera). His commitment to the character lotted for act one was simply too long.

However, some aspects of the play were and comical edge was laudable, and it was excellent. Mrs. Lovett (Marisa Malanga) clear that Mascera considered every line before reciting it. had a challeng The most stuning role that ning part of the involved a show was the elabtricky musical orate set created score requirby Mr. Oberg. The ing Malanbuildings, balcony ga to sing and barber shop through the replica were exquimusic, rather site, which gave the than on the performance a leactual notes. gitimate Broadway Her seasoned feel subsequent to professionalmy arrival. The ism shined costumes were also through the accent which she The Demon Barber of Fleet Street prepares to complimentary to the story, characterizexecuted flawkill to his unsuspecting customer. ing the personalities lessly. Every of each individual. time Malanga hit a note, I was more and more impressed. With standards set so high from The cast also included a wide array of “Beauty and the Beast” in 2011, Masquunderclassmen with less Masquer experi- ers has difficult expectations to reach, ence. Some impressed me, such as Mason; but I am confident that they will do so however, the veterans of the stage were the next year.

April 2013

The Wessex Wire: Arts & Culture

Page 10

John Green: A shining star in the fictional world Green’s latest novel “The Fault in our Stars” fills big shoes following “Looking forAlaska” because he’s somewhat of a loser at his current high school.

Author John Green has become an There, Miles meets his roommate Chip icon for teens across the globe. His “The Colonel” Martin, who dubs Miles popularity began when he made his with his first ever nickname, “Pudge.” literary debut Soon therein 2005 with a f t e r, P u d g e “Looking for meets Alaska, Alaska.” This a girl like he’s novel not only never before broke the hearts experienced. of people evAfter a tragic erywhere, but event, Pudge’s also won the life changes annual Michael Photos by Sami Silverman forever, and he L. Printz award finds himself With his bestseller, Green has achieved from the Amerhaving to deal an almost cult-like status among his dediican Library with the loss of cated readers.

Association. a loved one.

“Looking for Since the pubAlaska” tells the tale of a teenage boy’s lication of “Looking for Alaska,” Green experience at boarding school. Miles has written other short stories and Halter is a quiet, awkward adolescent works, but none have reached the same that finds a fascination with people’s success until he released his most recent last words. He claims that he wants to novel last year. “The Fault in our Stars,” go to boarding school in search of the released on Jan. 10, 2012, has, if possi“Great Perhaps,” though his parents ble, exceeded the previous standards he soon find out that the real reason is set with “Looking for Alaska.” Similar

by Sam DiGrande ’13

to “Looking for Alaska,” “The Fault They each deal with diseases that in our Stars” is relatable to a modern make them mature beyond their years. day “Romeo and Augustus wants Juliet,” but with nothing more from a twist. the world than to be The novel remembered, and to delves into the “save” his friends h ard s h i p s o f a in any way he can.

16-year-old canHe helps Hazel fulcer patient, Hazel fill her dreams, and Lancaster, who makes a lasting imis struggling to pact on her life. achieve some norWhat makes these malcy in her life. books so captivating Her mom is is the language in always nagging which they are writat her to get inten. The way Green Green’s collection of novels, including volved and meet “The Fault In Our Stars” and “Looking strings words togethfriends, but when er is truly mesmerFor Alaska.” she goes to her izing. He has a way regular Tuesday of making the reader night meeting at her Support Group, reread a sentence, and then go back to she never expects to actually enjoy it. read it yet again because his writing There she has her first encounter with and word choice is truly eloquent.

Augustus Waters, a 17-year-old amputee There is a special something in each suffering from osteosarcoma. of Green’s novels, and it is this ele Throughout the novel, Green expands ment that people can fully appreciate. upon Hazel and Augustus’s relationship.

4.5 out of 5 stars

App of the month: Sleep Cycle

by Valerie Panza ’13

not disturb the most vital and important Sleep Cycle by Maciek Drejak Labs part of a deep sleep. There are also helpful has hit that app market this month, innovations for various types of sleepers.

For example, there is an auto-snooze which ensures a refeature which profreshing night of gressively reduces sleep and helps the snooze time inteenagers avoid a terval to ensure that groggy attitude in you do not overthe morning. sleep. The way in Sleep Cycle calwhich the alarm is culates your averturned off can eiage sleep durations ther be a click of per week and also the home button or tells the efficiency a three second hold of your nighttime of the stop button. cycle. The “sleep This new app lab” also tracks is guaranteeing REM cycles, a time West Essex stuwhere you are in dents a perfect your deepest slumnight of sleep. ber, as well as light“My life hasn’t er levels of sleep. been the same The ideal time to since I’ve downwake up and feel loaded the Sleep refreshed is during Photo by Sam DiGrande Cycle app. It your light sleep, the wakes me up at green section in the the perfect time “sleep lab.”

Cycle users can set a specific time so I feel ready to The app also has Sleep frame for their alarm for a refreshing night take on the day,” an internal alarm of sleep. senior Michael clock which is able Fritz said. to alter settings to

Photo by Sam Gilbert

April 2013

The Wessex Wire: Sports

Page 11

West Essex athletic honors and achievements Fall Sports

FOOTBALL

ALL GROUP 3 FIRST TEAM Mike Realbuto Nour Aly SECOND TEAM Joe Scaglia ALL-ESSEX COUNTY SECOND TEAM Christian Russo THIRD TEAM Matt Thies ALL JUNIOR TEAM FIRST TEAM Joe Scaglia Matt Thies ALL FROSH/SOPH TEAM Roberto LoCascio (Defensive Sophmore of the Year)

BOYS’ SOCCER

ALL-ESSEX COUNTY THIRD TEAM Nick Soriano

FIELD HOCKEY

ALL-AMERICAN SECOND TEAM Amanda Cassera ALL-STATE SECOND TEAM Jackie Renda THIRD TEAM Kaitlyn Struss ALL GROUP 2 SECOND TEAM Steph Pezzuti THIRD TEAM Sofia Haramis ALL-ESSEX COUNTY SECOND TEAM Marissa Cafone Gab Girardi THIRD TEAM Alyssa Menendez

BOYS’ CROSS COUNTRY

ALL-ESSEX COUNTY THIRD TEAM Dan Kenny

GIRLS’ SOCCER

ALL GROUP 2 SECOND TEAM Kelly Egan THIRD TEAM Brianna Panico ALL-ESSEX COUNTY THIRD TEAM Kelly Egan Brianna Panico

GIRLS’ VOLLEYBALL

Photo courtesy of Mrs. Wojtowicz

Amanda Cassera ’13

ALL GROUP 2 Abbey Rollins ALL-ESSEX COUNTY FIRST TEAM Abbey Rollins

GIRLS’ TENNIS ALL GROUP 2 SECOND TEAM Alissa Devine Cassandra Torter

Winter Sports

WRESTLING

Tim Barth ’15

GIRLS’ SWIMMING BOYS’ WINTER TRACK ALL-ESSEX COUNTY

ALL-ESSEX COUNTY THIRD TEAM 200 FREE RELAY: West Essex FIRST TEAM POLE VAULT BOYS’ SWIMMING Dean McDonald ALL-ESSEX ICE HOCKEY FIRST TEAM ALL-ESSEX COUNTY 100 BACK: Tim Barth SECOND TEAM Louis Coniglio

Photo courtesy of Mr. Rosen

State Tournament Placing Mike Marotti- 6th place ALL-ESSEX COUNTY FIRST TEAM 145-Mike Marotti 152-Carlo Zazzara 195-Marc McDonald SECOND TEAM 160-Joe Velardi THIRD TEAM 182-Roberto LoCascio

Photo courtesy of Ally Barth

Nick Soriano ’13 Photo courtesy of Shannon Maloney

Louis Coniglio ’13

Photo courtesy of Mr. Kross

Carlo Zazzara ’13

Compiled by Anthony Bertoldi ’13

April 2013 Issue 5

The Wessex Wire Page 12

Player profiles: Junior track runner and sophomore goalkeeper

by Anna George ’14

Carlysa Oyama As a freshman, Carlysa Oyama decided to start running for the spring track team simply because she needed something to do. Over the years she has seen great success and she is now entering her junior year season as a captain.

“I love the competition,” Oyama said. Despite a leg injury her sophomore year, where she had torn her soleus muscle on the side of her shin, Oyama refused to allow the hurdle to hold her back. Thus far, she has broken the record for the girls’ mile and two mile, with times of 5:08 and 11:27, respectively. Oyama has also been named a conference and county champ and has won the state sectionals as a mere freshman.

“When I was a freshman, Lauren McDonald was a senior, and was someone with a strong work ethic and the perfect person to aspire to be like,” Oyama said. As her junior season approaches the final stretch, Oyama continues to work hard.

Carlysa has gained much respect from her fellow teammates. Senior Jonah Gantz said, “She has a once in a lifetime talent.”

Her coaches have recognized her

talent and know she can be successful. “Her times keep improving and we hope to get her to the meet of champions,” Coach Samuels said.

“In the future I just hope to improve my times,” Oyama said. She is considering continuing her running career in college, but is still unsure.

Photo courtesy of Mrs. Wojtowicz

Junior Carlysa Oyama sprints to the finish line in a meet against Saint Vincent Academy. She runs the the two mile, one mile, 800 meter and 4 by 400 meter races.

by Anthony Bertoldi ’13 Matt Boyd Going into this season, sophomore Matt Boyd knew his team would be depending on him. With no other goalies on the roster, Boyd became the starting goalie for the boys’ lacrosse team.

Photo courtesy of Mr. Kross

Sophomore Matt Boyd prepares to defend a shot versus Summit. Boyd and the boys’ lacrosse team will look to keep their two game winning streak alive this week.

Matt started playing lacrosse in fourth grade, and in fifth grade he began playing goalie because his team needed one.

“It is an honor playing on the field with seniors as well as Division I athletes,” Boyd said.

The goalie is the leader of the team and Matt relishes his role. “It is definitely overwhelming but I like the responsibility,” Boyd said.

Boyd’s shining moment from this season was when he had a career high 18 saves and a win against a very tough Glen Ridge team. “It was our first time beating them and we were the underdog team. I actually cried after the game,” said Boyd.

Matt is definitely a team player and it shows by what his teammates have to say about him.

“Matt Boyd is always able to find the ball and make the saves we need,” senior captain Matt Garvey said.

“Boyd is always staying positive in the goal no matter what happens over the course of a game,” senior captain Carmen Carnevale said.

Boyd currently holds a 4.3 GPA and likes the challenge of balancing his school work with his athletics. “It’s very difficult, but I embrace it,” Boyd said. The boys’ lacrosse squad is currently 3-6 and looked to rebound against Seton Hall and Verona this week.

Spring sports review: A mid-season look

by Louis Coniglio ’13

Boys’ Lacrosse

Head Coach: Mr. Glenn Captains: Carmen Carnevale, Matt Garvey, Rob Skeels, Mike Drumm Key Players: Julian Lorenzen, Matt Boyd, Nick Paranzine, Matt Thies, Roberto LoCascio Important Games: Verona (home) April 27, Chatham (home) April 30

Girls’ Lacrosse

Head Coach: Ms. Cosse Captains: Zoe Elfenbein, Amanda Cassera, Steph D’Ascoli Key Players: Erica Perrotta, Christine Laible, Steph Pezzuti, Anna George, Jackie Renda, Lexi Perez Important Games: Glen Ridge (away) April 26, Caldwell (home) May 2

Baseball

Head Coach: Mr. Illiano Captains: Joseph Damiano, Dave Pignataro, Mike Fritz, James Ernst, Aristotle Michalaki Key Players: Ant Tornatore, Kevin Fox Important Games: Bloomfield (home) May 6, Hanover Park (home) May 16

Softball

Head Coach: Ms. Mondadori Captain: Jill Casolaro Key Players: Jenny Shaw, Kimmy Shaw Important Games: Mount Saint Dominic Academy (home) May 1, Caldwell (home) May 3

Golf

Volleyball

Boys’ Tennis

Track

Head Coach: Dr. Kenny Captain: Tommy Haversang Key Players: Aron Augustitus, Mike Dominguez, Jake Gilbert, Jack Ploscowe, Frank Chiaia, Alison Hale, Sam Doolen Important Match: West Orange (home) May 13

Head Coach: Mr. Albanese Captains: Chris Martin Key Players: Jared Ingoglia, Mike Colavita, Joe Giuffre Important Matches: Montclair (home) May 1, Cedar Grove (home) May 6 , Glen Ridge (home) May 13

Head Coach: Mr. Humes Captain: Wyatt Kalb Key Players: Matt Vidovich, Mike Fogarty, Kelly Keegan, Dylan McGee, Cliff Brockmann, Dave Wong, Stephen Piccininni Important Matches: Livingston (home) May 15

Head Coaches: Mr. Emering and Mr. Samuels Captains: Pat Melillo, Jeremy Rosen, Dan Kenny, Heather Gupton, Alison Wojtowicz, Carlysa Oyama Key Players: Alexa Alhout, Bryan Gallion, Kayla Torter Important Meets: Essex County Relays (away) May 3