The Wessex Wire (November 2013)

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

Vol. XLVI No. 2

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

November 2013

Common App causes senior stress

by Andie Silverstein ’14

added after its release. As changes were made, some who had started their This year’s Common Application, applications early found themselves also known as the Common App, was locked out of the system.” released on Aug. 1 and has created “When I was done with a section, issues for students when trying to the green checkmark that means apply to the colleges of their choice ‘complete’ would not show up,” seusing the system. The Common App nior Anthony Tornatore said. is a nonprofit organization that has Common App users have faced difallowed students to apply to over 500 ficulty linking to Naviance, a system that West Essex uses to colleges and unisend transcripts versities from and recommendaone website tions to colleges. for the past 35 The site has also years. It conhad payment sists of four Photo courtesy of Mrs. Blanchard processing probdifferent seclems where aptions of inforplicants have mation about b e e n c h a rg e d an applicant’s multiple times personal, eduper application. cational, fam The Comily and testing mon App is also information, as experiencing well as a section formatting issues Photo courtesy of commonapp.org for extracurricular associated with the esactivities and the colsay. This year, the essay word count lege essay.

The 2013 version of the applica- was changed from 500 to 650 words. tion was completely revamped; the Students who have been previewing website is new in design and content. their finished products on the webSince the launch of the new site, site have been frustrated with words problems with site access, submis- that have been smashed together, randomly spaced or missing. sion and payment have occurred.

On Oct. 14, the website was com- “When I was done with my essay and pletely inaccessible. Students and I tried to preview it, the PDF file would counselors alike could not log on to not open. I refreshed the page about 50 times. I finally got it to open after I tried the site.

With approaching deadlines, these on three different computers,” senior glitches are causing anxiety and Mark Richardella said. strain on students who only have a Colleges are aware of these issues that few months to determine their col- have been occurring and have reached out to applicants to apologize for the lege plans.

“When I try to log on, the site is website malfunctions. often unavailable. These issues are “Most schools have been pushing making the college process slower back their deadlines at least a week and more frustrating than it needs to more because the common application has been having complications. I think be,” senior Nicole Castiglia said.

According to the New York Times, that it’s really nice that the schools are “Students who thought they had fin- understanding of that, and the extension ished the application found that it was has been very helpful,” senior Daniela incomplete because questions had been Forte said.

Inside This Issue:

3-4

Opinion

Head to head: Junior vs. senior year

Photo by Sydelle Barreto 5K participants begin running at the start of the race in front of the Fairfield pool.

Giaimo Run raises scholarship money

5-8

by Monica Onorata ’15

Students ran for a cause at the Giaimo Run on Oct. 26 in Fairfield. A 5K run and mile-long “trick or treat” run were offered to participants. The annual event commemorates the death of former West Essex student Robert P. Giaimo who passed away in a car accident on May 25, 2004 at the age of 20.

Giaimo’s mother coordinates the event every year with the help of volunteers from St. Thomas Moore Church. The run has been held every fall for the past nine years to raise money for scholarships given to students of West Essex and Ramapo College, both of which Giaimo attended.

Upon arrival, runners registered and received a t-shirt along with gift bags filled with snacks and coupons from a variety of sponsors. Corrado’s supermarket, 360 Fitness and many other local businesses supported the event.

Three hundred and one runners and walkers participated in this year’s run, including the West Essex cross country team and other West Essex students. Senior Daniel Kenny won the 5K for the second year in a row with a time of 17:03, while junior Bryan Gallion came in third with a time of 18:24.

Features

Seeing double: Twins at West Essex

“I was proud to see that all the members of the cross country team participated in the run to show support for their community. They ran for a great cause,” cross country coach Mr. Samuels said.

After the run, participants were offered dessert, coffee and water at the Fairfield pool where Mrs. Giaimo thanked runners for their participation. Massages were offered for sore runners and trophies were given to each winner within their age bracket.

In past years there have been two different scholarships given in honor of Giaimo. One is the 24’s Award: Robert P. Giaimo’s ice hockey scholarship.

This award is given to a member of the West Essex Ice Hockey team on which Giaimo formerly played. According to the scholarship description, the award is given to the player with the most dedication to the sport.

The second scholarship is given to either a West Essex student or a student of Ramapo College. This scholarship is given to a student who is interested in pursuing a career in the technical theater field like Giaimo. In the past two years West Essex graduates Maxine Taylor and Matthew Liotti have both received this scholarship. This year’s winners of the scholarship will be announced in the coming months.

11-12 Sports

Fall sports review

The Wessex Wire: News

November 2013

Page 2

WEFE hosts ‘Shop Till You Drop’

by Nicole Lieb ’14

The West Essex Foundation for

Photo by Val Panza Photo by Sydelle Barreto

Photo courtesy of Ms. Freeman Ed Agresta, an author, athletic coach and life coach speaks to freshmen and seniors on Oct. 15 in the auditorium encouraging them to embrace opportunities and “stay in the circle.”

Motivational speaker talks to students

by Monica Krup ’14 Motivational speaker Ed Agresta

spoke to West Essex students during an assembly on Oct 15. Agresta, a coach, educator and author, talked about making challenging life decisions and embracing the opportunities offered in the future.

While sophomores and juniors were taking the PSATs, Agresta spoke separately to the senior and freshman classes. To the seniors, he reassured them of the fact that everyone has a big future ahead, and that one’s attitude has the capacity to affect every decision.

“You have to force yourself to behave differently than how you feel,” Agresta said.

He promoted the idea that students should try to act positively even when they are thinking negatively. By holding up his hands and making a circle with his fingers, Agresta encouraged

students to “stay in the circle,” which is comprised of things that can be controlled, such as attitude and effort.

“I thought he made some really good points on how you have to focus on what you can control. He kept saying how attitude could change a lot,” senior Jamie Dellisanti said.

To the freshmen, Agresta told the new high school students to change the bad habits they once had in middle school.

He gave the advice to prioritize wisely between school and sports during high school and to respect the upperclassmen.

After showing an inspirational video of a boy with Cerebral Palsy that ran cross country and had a teammate that always picked him up when he fell, Agresta showed students that support will always be given when needed.

“He taught me that if I fail, there will always be someone to help me succeed,” freshman Kara Gingerelli said. “I need to surround myself with people that will help me do so.”

Philippines Typhoon Relief Fund Pasta Night and Tricky Tray Coordinated by Samantha Cristobal ’14 and Kristina Soriano ’15 On Behalf of Filipino-American Assn. N.J. Monday, Dec. 9 Fundraiser begins at 6:30 p.m.

Clifton Boys and Girls Club 181 Colfax Ave., Clifton For ticket info contact: kristinas7@aol.com or scristobal@gmail.com All checks must be in by Dec. 6

Education (WEFE) held a golf outing to raise money to promote education in the West Essex School District in previous years. While the golf outing was a success, it was difficult for the WEFE board to find golfers to participate in the outing. In order to involve more members of the West Essex community in the fundraising process, WEFE held its first ever “Shop Till You Drop” event on Oct. 29 in order to raise money for teachers’ grants.

“I think it’s great to hold an event which everyone can be a part of, not just golfers,” WEFE president Cari Moskowitz said.

Approximately 300 students, parents, teachers and local supporters of West Essex attended the event.

Tickets cost $5 for adults and $3 for students and faculty members when bought in advance. They were $7 for adults and $5 for students and faculty members when purchased at the door.

Prior to the event, parents and members of the West Essex community were able to pay $400 to sponsor a table, $100 to be a “Black Knight” sponsor or any amount of money to be a “Friend of the Foundation.” The funding from sponsors allowed for

various vendors to offer many types of products to purchase.

Among these vendors were Nellie and Bean, a new store in Verona that sold accessories, women’s apparel and home remedies; Mary Kay Cosmetics, a door-to-door make up company that sold cosmetics and skin care products; Pampered Chef, a cooking store that sold kitchen supplies and So Sweet Jewels, which sold jewelry.

“The soccer team went together. The event was really well set up and there was a wide variety of vendors and clothes,” senior Erica Perrotta said.

West Essex sponsored some tables; the PTO sold car magnets and address books, the fencing team sold discounted books, the school store sold school apparel and the WEFE Bake Sale sold baked goods.

In addition to all of the shopping that occurred, there was a raffle for a $20 gift card to Clever Containers. Reds Dips and Flips of West Caldwell sold small entrees while My Sweet Oven sold cookies and pine bark.

With more than $12,000 raised from an event that included all members of the West Essex community, WEFE plans on holding this event again next year.

“I thought the event was successful. I would like to hold it again next year, and hopefully more and more people will attend,” Moskowitz said.

November 2013

The Wessex Wire: Opinion

Page 4

Head to head: Which year of school is more challenging?

Senior year hampered by college process Junior year workload too much to bear

by Victoria Agrifolio ’14 Being the “big men (and women) on campus” does come with its perks- driving to school, Senior Ball, Senior Service; these fun opportunities, however, tend to be jaded by the challenging college application process seniors face in the fall.

As a junior, one thinks that standardized testing is all-consuming and tedious. Conversely, when it comes time to ensuring a college acceptance, seniors enviously look at the juniors, wishing they still had it that easy. The multiple components required in the application process, including the Common App, supplements and standardized testing all culminate into an immense amount of stress that weighs on the shoulders of seniors.

Twelfth grade students are just as taxed as juniors in reference to the grading system. Becoming a senior does not negate the fact that grades are still imperative. A mid-year report, consisting of a student’s first two marking period grades and midterms, is sent to the colleges to which he is applying. Therefore, seniors often find themselves loading up their schedules to accommodate more AP courses.

The college application process is also exceptionally expensive. Submitting the Common App ranges anywhere from $65-$80 per school. It costs money to submit the supplements to each college as well, and if one is planning to submit an art supplement, SlideRoom, the engine

for submission, costs $10. It is also costly to send ACT, SAT, SAT Subject Tests and AP exams to each college. After all of it is added up, it is clear that thousands of dollars are spent on only the application process for different colleges.

Additionally, applying to college takes up ample time, specifically for supplemental materials, which evidently reduces available time for school work.

In turn, the standard time allotted for homework each night must be cut down in order to fit in time for college applications. With all the work it requires, the college application process can be considered the “10th period class” inserted into the school day.

Aside from the daunting challenge of simply applying to college, senior year in general poses many other obstacles. As upperclassmen, 12th grade students tend to be selected as captains of various sports teams, making the balance of the year an even greater struggle. Additionally, many engage in community service activities and after school clubs in order to improve their college applications or simply enhance individual characteristics.

Seniors kicked off the year anticipating a lackadaisical attitude, while expecting privileges and more freedom. However, with our futures becoming more of a reality, it is impossible to fully enjoy senior year to its fullest capacity due to the burden of applying to college.

by Bryan Gallion ’15 Incoming 11th grade students always dread the upcoming school year, which is often referred to as the most difficult year of high school. The expectations that students are held to are elevated immensely because it is the last full year of grades that colleges view to determine a student’s acceptance. The pressure to be perfect is always in full effect in the minds of juniors, while senior year is more easygoing academically. The difficulty faced during junior year pays off when students are accepted to college.

Along with striving for the best grades possible, juniors must complete a slew of hefty exams that determine the paths of their futures, which is nerve-wracking. The PSATs are taken in October, which also serves as the National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test, while the SATs, ACT, HSPA and AP exams are administered throughout the year.

Many students hire tutors to provide assistance in preparing for these exams because high scores ensure a greater chance of being accepted into a top-notch college or university. The countless hours allotted to costly tutoring sessions take away from the minimal free time that juniors already have. Exam practice on top of regular homework can be extremely hectic.

Students fill up their resumes during junior year by being inducted into vari-

ous honor societies, which have tedious application processes and participating in community service. Teacher recommendations must be secured by the end of junior year, while most athletes commit to collegiate teams by the end of the year as well.

Prom increases the stress level of juniors socially. While the event is a memorable experience, the months leading up to it are filled with anxiety. Male students stress over asking a date, while girls worry about finding both a date and a dress. Every detail of a prom ensemble must be perfect, and catfights ensue when a girl purchases a dress that appears to be even remotely similar to another girl’s.

Once this miserable year concludes and senior year commences, a huge weight is lifted off the shoulders of the new 12th grade students. Senior year is focused on making memories that last a lifetime instead of striving for perfect grades. The senior academic year is cut short for many students due to senior service. They also get to enjoy activities such as senior ball and the senior luau while juniors must work their hardest until the school year concludes in June.

Seniors refrain from looking back on junior year due to all of the stress and pressure that they endured. While all of the hard work pays off in the long run, most students never experience a more difficult year in high school than 11th grade.

Drivers: The good, the bad and the incredibly mediocre Coming to terms with the brutal fact that I am not amazing behind the wheel

by Christine Laible ’14

I would like to point out that I have never been in an accident. Not a fender bender, not a scratch, nothing. I’ve never even gotten pulled over, except for one time when I was driving the wrong way down a one way street at night without my lights on. But I wasn’t even ticketed for that, so it doesn’t really count. That incident also occurred in traffic-filled Montclair, a labyrinth that traps in new drivers like a bunny in a snake den.

I know this anecdote may portray me as a bad driver, but I’m not. When I try really hard to focus, I can be incredibly mediocre.

The main reason why I’m a mediocre driver is because of how I was taught.

My dad is the epitome of an aggressive driver. He’s not a bad driver, but my mom does sometimes find the need to cover her eyes while sitting in the passenger seat.

Meanwhile, my mom always goes at least five miles below the speed limit and drives with the aggression of a timid hamster.

Because both my parents taught me how to drive, my method is an amalgamation of theirs. Yet “passive-aggressive” is not

a great driving ideology. Because of my dad, I cut people off. But because of my mom, I don’t do it nearly fast enough.

My sense of direction also greatly impedes my ability to drive. While my dad could find his way to a restaurant

Cartoon by Juan Gomez ’14 The problem for mediocre drivers isn’t the driving, it’s the people that get in their way.

with hipster-level anonymity in the middle of Durnstein, Austria, my mom still struggles making her way through Essex Fells. And of course my sense of direction mirrors the latter.

As hard as I try it can be very difficult to cross the line over from “mediocre” to “good.” However, the road of “mediocre” to “bad” is one easily merged. In my experience I have found there are pitfalls one should avoid if he wishes to keep his mediocre status.

Avoid road rage. I know it may be tempting to yell at the white sedan in front of you to put the blinker on but please abstain from obscene language.

Take the high road and consider making crude gestures instead.

The biggest tool a mediocre driver can have is confidence. Just kidding.

All mediocre drivers should make sure to have a P.B.A card in their wallets at all times.

November 2013

The Wessex Wire: Opinion

Page 4

Head to head: Which year of school is more challenging?

Senior year hampered by college process Junior year workload too much to bear

by Victoria Agrifolio ’14 Being the “big men (and women) on campus” does come with its perks- driving to school, Senior Ball, Senior Service; these fun opportunities, however, tend to be jaded by the challenging college application process seniors face in the fall.

As a junior, one thinks that standardized testing is all-consuming and tedious. Conversely, when it comes time to ensuring a college acceptance, seniors enviously look at the juniors, wishing they still had it that easy. The multiple components required in the application process, including the Common App, supplements and standardized testing all culminate into an immense amount of stress that weighs on the shoulders of seniors.

Twelfth grade students are just as taxed as juniors in reference to the grading system. Becoming a senior does not negate the fact that grades are still imperative. A mid-year report, consisting of a student’s first two marking period grades and midterms, is sent to the colleges to which he is applying. Therefore, seniors often find themselves loading up their schedules to accommodate more AP courses.

The college application process is also exceptionally expensive. Submitting the Common App ranges anywhere from $65-$80 per school. It costs money to submit the supplements to each college as well, and if one is planning to submit an art supplement, SlideRoom, the engine

for submission, costs $10. It is also costly to send ACT, SAT, SAT Subject Tests and AP exams to each college. After all of it is added up, it is clear that thousands of dollars are spent on only the application process for different colleges.

Additionally, applying to college takes up ample time, specifically for supplemental materials, which evidently reduces available time for school work.

In turn, the standard time allotted for homework each night must be cut down in order to fit in time for college applications. With all the work it requires, the college application process can be considered the “10th period class” inserted into the school day.

Aside from the daunting challenge of simply applying to college, senior year in general poses many other obstacles. As upperclassmen, 12th grade students tend to be selected as captains of various sports teams, making the balance of the year an even greater struggle. Additionally, many engage in community service activities and after school clubs in order to improve their college applications or simply enhance individual characteristics.

Seniors kicked off the year anticipating a lackadaisical attitude, while expecting privileges and more freedom. However, with our futures becoming more of a reality, it is impossible to fully enjoy senior year to its fullest capacity due to the burden of applying to college.

by Bryan Gallion ’15 Incoming 11th grade students always dread the upcoming school year, which is often referred to as the most difficult year of high school. The expectations that students are held to are elevated immensely because it is the last full year of grades that colleges view to determine a student’s acceptance. The pressure to be perfect is always in full effect in the minds of juniors, while senior year is more easygoing academically. The difficulty faced during junior year pays off when students are accepted to college.

Along with striving for the best grades possible, juniors must complete a slew of hefty exams that determine the paths of their futures, which is nerve-wracking. The PSATs are taken in October, which also serves as the National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test, while the SATs, ACT, HSPA and AP exams are administered throughout the year.

Many students hire tutors to provide assistance in preparing for these exams because high scores ensure a greater chance of being accepted into a top-notch college or university. The countless hours allotted to costly tutoring sessions take away from the minimal free time that juniors already have. Exam practice on top of regular homework can be extremely hectic.

Students fill up their resumes during junior year by being inducted into vari-

ous honor societies, which have tedious application processes and participating in community service. Teacher recommendations must be secured by the end of junior year, while most athletes commit to collegiate teams by the end of the year as well.

Prom increases the stress level of juniors socially. While the event is a memorable experience, the months leading up to it are filled with anxiety. Male students stress over asking a date, while girls worry about finding both a date and a dress. Every detail of a prom ensemble must be perfect, and catfights ensue when a girl purchases a dress that appears to be even remotely similar to another girl’s.

Once this miserable year concludes and senior year commences, a huge weight is lifted off the shoulders of the new 12th grade students. Senior year is focused on making memories that last a lifetime instead of striving for perfect grades. The senior academic year is cut short for many students due to senior service. They also get to enjoy activities such as senior ball and the senior luau while juniors must work their hardest until the school year concludes in June.

Seniors refrain from looking back on junior year due to all of the stress and pressure that they endured. While all of the hard work pays off in the long run, most students never experience a more difficult year in high school than 11th grade.

Drivers: The good, the bad and the incredibly mediocre Coming to terms with the brutal fact that I am not amazing behind the wheel

by Christine Laible ’14

I would like to point out that I have never been in an accident. Not a fender bender, not a scratch, nothing. I’ve never even gotten pulled over, except for one time when I was driving the wrong way down a one way street at night without my lights on. But I wasn’t even ticketed for that, so it doesn’t really count. That incident also occurred in traffic-filled Montclair, a labyrinth that traps in new drivers like a bunny in a snake den.

I know this anecdote may portray me as a bad driver, but I’m not. When I try really hard to focus, I can be incredibly mediocre.

The main reason why I’m a mediocre driver is because of how I was taught.

My dad is the epitome of an aggressive driver. He’s not a bad driver, but my mom does sometimes find the need to cover her eyes while sitting in the passenger seat.

Meanwhile, my mom always goes at least five miles below the speed limit and drives with the aggression of a timid hamster.

Because both my parents taught me how to drive, my method is an amalgamation of theirs. Yet “passive-aggressive” is not

a great driving ideology. Because of my dad, I cut people off. But because of my mom, I don’t do it nearly fast enough.

My sense of direction also greatly impedes my ability to drive. While my dad could find his way to a restaurant

Cartoon by Juan Gomez ’14 The problem for mediocre drivers isn’t the driving, it’s the people that get in their way.

with hipster-level anonymity in the middle of Durnstein, Austria, my mom still struggles making her way through Essex Fells. And of course my sense of direction mirrors the latter.

As hard as I try it can be very difficult to cross the line over from “mediocre” to “good.” However, the road of “mediocre” to “bad” is one easily merged. In my experience I have found there are pitfalls one should avoid if he wishes to keep his mediocre status.

Avoid road rage. I know it may be tempting to yell at the white sedan in front of you to put the blinker on but please abstain from obscene language.

Take the high road and consider making crude gestures instead.

The biggest tool a mediocre driver can have is confidence. Just kidding.

All mediocre drivers should make sure to have a P.B.A card in their wallets at all times.

November 2013 Issue 2

Feature

The Wessex Wire Page 5

When turkeys and menorahs collide

by Annie Kluger ’14

Therefore, many Jewish American families have been coming up with The last Thursday of every Novem- many ways to make this one time ber has always been reserved for The celebration count.

Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade “I’m going to my aunt’s house and and the start of holiday shopping. we’re going to have a Thanksgiving However, this year on Nov. 28, for the meal incorporating Jewish foods into first time in our lives, the turkey and it. We’re going to make potato latkes with cranstuffing will berry applehave to move sauce, pecan over to make pie rugelach room for the and challah aptraditional pople stuffing,” tato latkes and senior Sarah applesauce.

Moyer said.

For those T h e who celebrate holiday even both Chahas its own nukah and Tw i t t e r a c Thanksgiving, count, Facethere has been book page a bit of confuand website. sion at first as For those to how the two who are unv e r y i m p o rsure of how tant holidays to celebrate would equally the big day, share one day. there are alThe answer ready many however is available simple, Chasources to nukah plus cartoon by Juan Gomez ’14 find inspiraThanksgiving tion. The ofequals the new ficial “Thanksgivukah” website even original holiday, “Thanksgivukah.”

“At first I was skeptical about has “e-cards” available so an indimixing two holidays and losing the vidual can wish his or her friends and significance of each, but now I real- family both a happy Chanukah and a ize it’s going to be an extra special happy Thanksgiving within one conday because of it,” junior Emily Ben venient online message.

The festivities don’t just stop with a Nathan said.

“Thanksgivukah” combines the best creative meal or menorah in the shape of each holiday’s traditions. These two of a turkey (aka a “Menurky”) but one holidays have not overlapped since can go further and show even more en1888, according to the New York Times thusiasm for the holiday by sporting a and they are not expected to overlap “Thanksgivukah 2013” t-shirt, which again during any of our lifetimes. can be bought on various online sites.

Want to advertise in the Wessex Wire?

Contact Andie Silverstein at: thewessexwire@gmail.com

by Jen Fabiano ’14

Most people are familiar with the delightful feeling of walking into a Starbucks coffee shop and smelling the coffee in the air with the growing anticipation for the delicious drink that will be soon coming their way.

The routine goes as follows. First, the customer orders her drink of choice. Then, the barista asks the customer’s name and the money is handed over for the purchase. Once the drink is received, the customer checks the side of the cup to make sure that the beverage is, in fact, hers. But most of the time, the labeling of the cup does not even help anyway.

We a l l know what I’m talking about. For some reason, the Starbucks workers can’t help but butcher even the simplest of names.

I’ve seen “ A i l e e n ” The mispellings of Bridget, Daniela, turned into “Ali,” “Dan- Nicolette and Erica. iela” turned into “Danielle” and even “Nicolette” turned into some strange form of “Nicole.”

“They always spell my name with a C or with way too many letters,” senior Kirin Heinz said.

This phenomenon is seen all over the country. Some have even created blogs and websites about it. Thatsnotmynamestarbucks.tumblr.com is one of the many sites where people share a picture of the disaster Starbucks employees created on their beverages with the misspelling of their name. Some examples are turning “Meghan” to “Magan” and “Paul” to “Pole.” The workers must have some great imaginations with some of the “names” they come up with.

Biology teacher Ms. Colabelli, whose first name is Daniela, often has issues while ordering drinks at Starbucks. Colabelli has received back “Danyella,” “Danellia” and the worst of them all, “Dunilla.”

“It used to bother me, but now I think it’s funny,” Ms. Colabelli said.

So what is it that causes these mess-ups so often? Is it the soothing music? The early opening times? Maybe the coffee fumes getting to the baristas’ heads? We may never know.

“We never really get the names wrong, it’s just the spelling that gets us,” senior Kyle Talish, a Starbucks barista, said.

Though I’ve never experienced the situation, I feel for you fellow coffee drinkers. Still, I await the time where my drink is handed to me with my three-letter-name spelled horribly wrong.

Thankfully it seems names are the only things that Starbucks messes up because the delicious drinks make up for the disastrous mistakes.

Photos by Bridget Delehanty, Nico lette Aktas and courtesy of Erica Torter and Ms. Colabelli.

November 2013

Page 6

The Wessex Wire: Features

The inseparable bonds of in A double take on the popularity of multiples

by Nicolette DeVincenzo ’14

One in 30 babies born in the United States is a twin, according to the New York Times, a statistic further affirmed by the 32 sets of twins or triplets at West Essex alone.

Twins can often be seen walking the halls together or even be spotted in the same class, but it has become noticeably more apparent within the past few years. It is quite common for a set of identical twins to be mistakenly identified by teachers and peers despite the longevity of their relationships. Whether the hazy identification is beneficial or bothersome is up to the brothers/sisters.

“In fifth grade Tatum and I switched classes for a whole school day. All of the students knew but none of the

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teachers did which made it even better when we confessed at the end of the day. I don’t think the teachers were too happy with us,” sophomore Courtney Pappas said.

Physical Education teacher and coach, Ms. Cavallo, and her identical twin share much more than just their looks. They attended The College of New Jersey together and both played soccer throughout their high school careers. Their similar paths eventually led them down the same road to high school-level teaching jobs. Ms. Cavallo’s sister is also a teacher at Chatham High School, which makes them both susceptible to studentteacher run-ins at local stores.

“Sometimes I’m at Target and a random kid will shout out my last name. When I realize that I don’t

recognize the student I assume he/she is my sister’s student and just play it off like I’m her and they never even know,” Ms. Cavallo said.

Despite the similar DNA the 32 sets of twins or triplets share, each are unique in their own way. Sometimes, the siblings are even more determined to distinguish themselves from one another since they lack the physical capability to do so. Triplet juniors Anthony, Sergio and Gab Sanzari have made distinctive paths for themselves from a young age.

“There’s really nothing alike about any of us. We have different interests and close friends. People are always shocked when they find out we’re related, let alone triplets,” Anthony Sanzari said.

Just because someone is a twin,

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does not mean he or she can be easily identified as a multiple. Whether classmates are aware or not, there is a high possibility that one person in class is a twin. It is likely for fraternal twins or twins of different sexes to go unrecognized.

“Sometimes people don’t even know Allie and I are twins since I’m a boy and she’s a girl, and I’m really loud and she’s pretty quiet. Also, no one really knows how we had matching outfits until first grade or slept in the same bed until we were two,” junior Matt Boyd said.

Although twins have an undeniable bond, they face their share of disputes as any other siblings would. After all, seeing double may start to get annoying after a while. After all, seeing double may start to get annoying after a while.

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Caroline and Megan Groome ’16

2

7

Erin and Kelly Smith ’15

1 Delia and Francesca Zumpano ’17 Brigette and Danielle Phelong ’15

6 5 8

Bethany and Courtney Hou ’16 Photos by Sydelle Barreto, Kevin Fox, Sami Silverman, Nina Sisco, Noah Eagle and Bryan Gallion

Courtney and Tatum Pappas ’16 Mark and Matt Dignazio ’14

Dominic and Luke Magliaro ’15

November 2013

The Wessex Wire: Features

Page 7

separable twins and triplets

“Unless we tell them, most people wouldn’t ever guess we’re related” - Allie Boyd ’15

Twins by the numbers Compiled by Monica Krup ’14 and Bridget Delehanty ’14

“Sometimes we can finish each other’s...”

- Leana Mercurio ’15 “...sentences” - Brian Mercurio ’15

• Twins can interact in the womb at 14 weeks old.

• The oldest twins on the planet are currently are 102 years old.

• There are more than two types of twins: identical, fraternal, half-identical, etc.

• Expecting mothers of twins gain 35-45 pounds (as opposed to 25-35 for single babies).

• Birth rates of twins have increased 70 percent over the past 30 years.

• Fraternal twins have a 17 percent chance of having their own twins.

• Every one in 50 people is a fraternal twin.

• One in three sets of twins are identical.

• Mrs. Mary Jonas (1899) had 15 sets of twins.

Courtesy of the Huffington Post, twinstwice.com and twinsworld.com

“No one really believes that we’re twins” - Austin O’Reilly ’16 Compiled by Victoria Agrifolio, Noah Eagle and Bryan Gallion

“I can sense his emotions, like when he’s sad” - Alison Wojtowicz ’14

“It’s good to be able to share clothes and shoes” - Demi Russo ’15

“We usually say the same things a lot” - Danielle Sollitto ’14

Answers to “Guess Who?” game: 1. Left: Bethany, Right: Courtney. 2. Left: Francesca, Right: Delia 3. Left: Kelly, Right: Erin. 4. Left: Caroline, Right: Megan. 5. Left: Mark, Right: Matt. 6. Left: Courtney, Right: Tatum. 7. Left: Danielle, Right: Brigette. 8. Left: Luke, Right: Dominic.

November 2013

The Wessex Wire: Feature

Page 8

Cross country runner and global citizen Alvaro persists through foreign exchange adversity

by Helena Voltmer’14

derstand some things especially when I In the future, Alvaro wants to become When on his own, Alvaro likes to run in am texting a friend but last week I learned a businessman working in different coun- the forest or park nearby, listen to music Alvaro Paniagua is not your typical what swag means,” Alvaro said. tries and hopes that taking English and and watch movies with his friends. high school sophomore. Originally from “I love any kind of jazz and Simon and Photo by Noah Eagle Cordoba, Spain, Alvaro remembers Garfunkel,” he said. walking through the West Essex halls “He is fun loving, doesn’t care what feeling intimidated by not only its size, people think and talks a lot,” fellow teambut also its cultural differences from his mate and classmate Isaiah Rodriguez said. school in Spain.

When spending time with his new-found Alvaro has visited America often running friends, Alvaro has been able to try because his parents, who are architects, all different kinds of American food. have traveled here for business. He “Food here is better but less [healthy]. I returned this past July to spend another love Chipotle and Five Guys,” Alvaro said. six months attending West Essex for his Back in Spain with his friends he second year. He recalls his first few days goes to the movies, plays soccer and being rough. visits various tapas restaurants during “At first I could not understand my the week. After visiting America many teachers and had to use a dictionary for times Alvaro has been able to see some

Alvaro shows off his book of idioms and expressions during lunch time. every test,” Alvaro said. differences between the two cultures.

However, after a while he was able to “Everyone is always working every improve his English enough to leave his Comparing school in America to his French classes will help him reach his single day which I don’t like,” Alvaro dictionary behind. said, “you guys are a working culture.” school back home, Alvaro points out the goal of becoming trilingual.

When coming to America, Alvaro not difference in work ethic.

“He is very open minded and truly But one thing he does enjoy about only had to adapt to a new language but “Here it’s not like Spain because if you a global citizen, he will do well as a America is the variety. the typical slang and expressions. work hard people admire you for that, here businessman,” Ms. Ni, his English as “Here in America you have everything, “The first month was horrible but then it is fun to get good grades because every- a second language teacher, said. everything you can imagine and it is very it got better. Sometimes I still don’t un- one is cheering you [on],” Alvaro said.

When coming to West Essex, Al- big, like amusement parks and sports!” varo became a member of the FBLA Alvaro said. club and Youth and Government club Another difference that Alvaro specifiafter school because many of his cally points out is the lack of privacy in friends encouraged him to join.

America.

“They both make you think and “Last year I was home one day and teach you how the world works. I walked around my house [like] I do in think any person should be informed Spain, without a shirt, and people were about what is going on in [business] ghosting my house and looked through and politics,” he said. the window and saw me. I was shocked.”

He also immediately joined the Some American traditions that Alvaro cross country team where he was enjoys include Halloween because he able to meet more friends as well as loves to get dressed in a costume. practice his English.

“It is a stupid day to have fun,” he said.

“He is very hard working and is This year his love for costumes was driven to constantly get better,” his rewarded, winning first place for “Most coach, Mr. Samuels said.

Creative” being dressed as a tourist.

With his passion to run, joining the team He also pointed out similarities was a natural and differences Idina Menzel Maria Pomponio ’14 fit for Alvaro. between Christ“In Spain we “Here it’s not like Spain because m a s i n S p a i n p l a y s p o r t s if you work hard people admire and Christmas in b u t d o n ’ t you for that, here it is fun to get America. compete so it good grades because everyone “Here Christwas nice to be is cheering you [on]” mas is less reli -Alvaro Paniagua able to run gious and you for a team,” spend it more Alvaro said. with friends than with family. In While getting to know everyone on the Spain family is very important,” Alteam Alvaro has been able to turn to some varo said. of his team mates for inspiration.

Alvaro will soon travel to Spain “I look up to [senior] Dan Kenny to spend some time with his family because he is the fastest runner and I during the Christmas holiday. hope to get close to him. I look up to Mr. “I look forward to teaching my Eddie Redmayne Mattias Voltmer ’16 Samuels too because he is not a normal English teacher English and how to coach but better than that because he speak it [properly],” he said.

Photos by Sami Silverman Photo courtesy of aceshowbiz. pushes us to achieve our goals,” he said. and Helena Voltmer com and hollywoodactress.org

Mirror images: W.E. look alikes

November 2013 Issue 2

Arts

&

Culture

The Wessex Wire Page 9

‘Midsummer/Jersey’ brings Shakespeare to the shore

by Bridget Delehanty ’14

the story of their romance and recaps the complicated and confusing relationship between Lyle, Mia, Dennis (senior Cameron Perez) and Helene (junior Christina Wan).

The audience laughed out loud as the teens’ struggles were exacerbated by the fairy king, Oberon, played by senior Steve Schmidt, and his mischevious servant Puck, played by senior Anderson Wang. The Photos by Sami Silverman constant bickering between Oberon “I considered the “All’s well that ends well” as Mia, Lyle, and Puck went community reception Dennis and Helene get to marry the one from the confusion [to the play being set they’ve been chasing all along. about “Snapchat” at the Jersey Shore so to the mistaken soon after Sandy] and decided to go through with the show in identity regarding a love potion. They order to celebrate the good memories that kept the audience in stitches throughout people have of it and to pay tribute to our the show.

Meanwhile, Patti Quince, played by home state,” director Mrs. Rizzo said.

Two of the main characters of the show, senior Geena Martorana, led the hair Mia (“Cookie”) and Lyle (“The Under- salon with her spot-on Jersey accent statement”) are played by sophomore in a hilarious rendition of “Romeo and Katie Aussenhiemer and senior Greg Juliet,” starring Nikki Bottom (senior Contaldi, respectively. The play follows Alina Guiang), as Romeo in a play with-

A week before the one year anniversary of Hurricane Sandy, the Masquers of West Essex performed “Midsummer/ Jersey” written by Ken Ludwig. The comedy is based off the Shakespearean classic, “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” and is set at the modern day Jersey Shore.

Review

in a play. In an attempt to win the chance who weren’t aware of the show’s Shaketo perform at the Governor’s wedding, spearean background. However, the great the beauticians add all kinds of flair to costumes coupled with the ever-changing the show including Guiang’s constant and very detailed set provided the per“hee-haws,” after fect aesthetic. Ausbeing magically senheimer, Wan, transformed into Contaldi, Perez and a donkey by the the beauticians were mischievous Puck dressed in leather and with Robert jackets and poufs Sudds (sophomore to act as “guidos.”

Mattias Voltmer) Voltmer, the only acting as the balmale beautician, cony. Their antics, showed off his style while not exactly by wearing a long at the forefront, gown as Juliet’s added the perfect mother for the proBottom gets the royal treatment from combination of Sunflower, Moonbeam, Peaseblossom, duction of “Romeo comedy and Jersey Sunshine, Cobweb and Queen Titania. and Juliet.” that were integral to The live authe show’s success. dience’s nonstop The random bursts of popular music, laughter was the ultimate feedback for such as “Party Rock Anthem” by LMFAO, the cast who had been working hard since and dialogue about iPhones made the show their auditions on the second day of the extremely relatable, while the infusion of school year.

Shakespearean quotes ensured the integrity “It’s been amazing to be able to see the of the original show. Unfortunately, though growth from day one until now. I am not a fault of the production but of the incredibly proud of everyone who script itself, the meaning of some quotes contributed to the show,” assistant were lost on the members of the audience director, junior Mitchell Epstein said.

Accomplished movie stars move on to a new frontier in the spotlight

by Jacqueline Gualtieri ’14 For the upcoming Broadway season, familiar faces will be gracing the stage. They have already wowed us with their performances on television and movies, but this season they will have a shock to their systems, singing, dancing and acting on stage for an audience each night. Judging by their past presentations, it may be safe to say that they’re up for the challenge.

Already onstage, “Romeo and Juliet” portrays the classic love story in a new light. The characters still speak in Shakespeare’s poetic signature, iambic pentameter, yet they are brought into modern times. Romeo is played

by Broadway newbie Orlando Bloom, who makes his entrance on stage roaring in on a motorcycle. Bloom has been in popular movie franchises such as “The Pirates of the Caribbean” and “The Lord of the Rings,” but he admits that he was eager to get away from the CGI of the silver screen.

“I wanted to work with flesh and blood actors,” Bloom said in an interview

on “The Colpets of songs bert Report.” for Williams; “I wanted to this time she’s communicate singing each with them.” night, without Last year Mithe sweet luxchelle Williams ury of editing. won much criti Zooey Decal acclaim for schanel is best her performance known as the of Marilyn quirky star of Monroe in “My “New Girl,” Photo courtesy of mirror.co.uk Week with Marthe hit FOX ilyn,” along with television show a Golden Globe. that’s in its third She showed off season and still her impressive getting rave rePhoto courtesy of playbill.com voice, giving it views. Despite that trademark Bloom joins Condola Rashad, daughter of D e s c h a n e l ’s Monroe breathi- actress Phylicia Rashad, in the nontraditional and busy schedule, ness, but Wil- contemporary-set revival of “Romeo and Juliet.” she’s now set liams has been to star in “Coal bringing her tremendous vocals to the Miner’s Daughter,” the story of country screen going all the way back to her music legend Loretta Lynn from her “Dawson’s Creek” days. She is starring impoverished childhood to stardom. in the revival of “Cabaret,” performing Like Williams, Deschanel has shown off for the first time on stage, with the Tony her vocal chops before, but she has had Award winning score. No more snip- a little more practice, as one half of the

group She & Him. When asked how she thought Deschanel would do portraying her, Lynn told broadwayworld.com, “She’s young and she’s good. She can pull it off. I ain’t worried one bit.”

A new play, “All the Way” is set in first years of Lyndon B. Johnson’s presidency following the death of John F. Kennedy and follows Johnson as he deals with a country in turmoil and confusion. Johnson will be played

by Bryan Cranston, better known as Walter White of “Breaking Bad.” Cranston has won numerous awards, including three consecutive Emmys for his portrayal of White. Perhaps Cranston’s looking to add a Tony to his ever-expanding collection.

These talented stars are just some amongst many looking to make a break for the stage, maybe to hone undiscovered talents, maybe to break away from all the flair of the big screen. Either way, it seems that these Hollywood talents have stolen Broadway and they don’t look like they’re giving it back anytime soon.

November 2013

The Wessex Wire: Arts & Culture

Page 10

‘The Lowland’: Lahiri’s fresh and evocative new fiction

by Sydelle Barreto ’14

Jhumpa Lahiri’s style of clean, unburdened prose comes through beautifully in her newest book, “The Lowland,” which tells the story of two brothers, Subhash and Udayan who grow up in a turbulent time, post-Partition Calcutta. Subhash is the older and more cautious one, while Udayan, just 15 months younger, walks the line between activist and rebel. Despite their differences in personality, both boys are curious, bright and share a deep and profound bond.

Review As they grow up, their paths diverge towards very different futures. Their adolescence coincides with a politically tempestuous time in India’s history, and Udayan, ever one to bend the rules,

becomes involved in a Communistic reticient man himself, it is the snippets he political group. It is there that he meets a gives from the lives of others that stitch brilliant, yet reserved, girl named Gauri together an imperfect portrait of his family, “a family of solitaries,” as Lahiri puts it. whom he later marries.

While the phys On the other side of the ical distance is Atlantic, Subhash is purgreat between the suing his PhD in Rhode brothers, the emoIsland, a place of water and Photos by Helena Voltmer tional chasm that sky, one that reminds him begins to develop, of his home in the lowland a separation that of Calcutta. Subhash is utLahiri evokes efterly alone, without friends fortlessly, is what or family, though he does stands out to the find comfort for a short reader. The style period of time with a marthat Pulitzer-Prize ried woman named Holly. winning Lahiri When tragedy befalls newhad developed lyweds Udayan and Gauri, in “Interpreter of Subhash must return to his Maladies,” her broken family, to pick up Photo by Sydelle Barreto first short story the pieces and somehow collection, continput himself back together. “Lahiri has a vibrant and compelues on into her latThe novel is told from Sub-ling voice in contemporary fiction,” hash’s perspective, and as aEnglish teacher Ms. Macaluso said. est work, 14 years

later. She writes objectively, setting the reader at a polite distance, but empathetically, with loss and sorrow portrayed evidently as black words against paper. Lahiri manages to weave together the historical with the personal, juxtaposing intimate and impersonal. She discusses the personal stories of a family scattered, set against the backdrop of Communist China, the Naxalite movement in India and the anti-war sentiment in America.

The novel differs from her previous works, rooted in Calcutta rather than America, breaking Lahiri’s trend of documenting the acclimatization and acculturation of Indian immigrants.

However, both fans of Lahiri and readers new to her work alike will enjoy this latest piece that explores the emotional distance that time creates, the strength of family bonds and the effects of regret and fate.

Rating: 5 out of 5 stars

The ‘X-Factor’ of entertainment

by Kaitlyn Struss ’14

Photo by Sami Silverman Carolyn Rafealien has designed the newest fad, Alex and Ani bracelets, all of which are made in the United States.

The charm bracelet craze returns

by Nina Sisco ’14 Alex and Ani bracelets, the must-

have jewelry piece of the year, are a noticeable accessory on wrists of West Essex students. The bracelets are easily recognizable by a charm that hangs from a thin, expandable wire finished in silver or gold. Whether it’s an initial, birthstone or beaded piece, Alex and Ani bangles are proving to be the current “it” accessory.

“I have 14 and love every single last one of them… I would wear them to sleep if I could,” junior Shannon Bertscha said.

The popularity of the Alex and Ani brand spurrs from its innovative appearance. The bracelets defy the traditional charm bracelet design, instead of the conventional one linked chain, the bangles have a single charm which are meant to be stacked. This way, the

wearer has the ability to attach them in a series up her arm. There are over 400 bangles for customers to choose from.

“Each charm allows the wearer to express [her] individuality,” senior Alison Wojtowicz said, “Every charm I have has meaning to my life. I have the starfish charm because I love the beach and the aquamarine birthstone because my birthday is in March.”

Recognizing that the bangles are inherently feminine accessories, boys are picking up on the trend as well, and the Alex and Ani bracelets are becoming an extremely popular gift for students to give girlfriends.

Jewelry can be extremely pricey, but these bracelets are relatively affordable. Ranging from $24-$375, there is a perfect option for every shopper.

It seems that buyers can do no wrong purchasing an Alex and Ani bracelet for their loved ones.

America cannot seem to get enough of televised talent competitions. “American Idol” first aired in 2002 and immediately caught the attention of the public. Many similar shows including “America’s Got Talent” and “The Voice” have followed in its footsteps. However,“The X Factor” remains the most popular. First airing in Sept. 2011, the relatively new show has become extremely wide-spread.

“The X Factor,” hosted by Mario Lopez, is responsible for discovering acts such as

Review Emblem3 and Carly Rose Sonenclar. The band One Direction can also thank “The X Factor” (UK) for their start. Along with previous “American Idol” judge Simon Cowell, Demi Lovato, Kelly Rowland and Paulina Rubio evaluate the contestants.

Unlike other talent competitions, “The X Factor” does not have a maximum age limit, allowing adults and children as young as 12 to compete. Contestants must perform a song on stage in front of the judges and depending on the quality of their voice and potential stardom, they may be awarded a pass to the next round.

After several rounds of tryouts, the judges each chose a category to serve as a mentor: Girls, Guys, Over 25’s and Groups.

This year “The X Factor” has added a

new segment known as “The Four Chair Challenge.” In this portion of the show contestants in each category perform a song, and only the best four contenders of each group have the privilege of moving onto the next round. Once each category has three participants (a total of 12 contestants on the show) it moves on to the live performances, where the entrant’s time on the show is then left up to the voters.

The best part of the show is undoubtedly the live performances. It allows the audience to feel a part of the show because their votes determine who stays and who goes. Leaving the decisions up to the viewers is extremely controversial because many people vote according to preference regarding looks and background, rather than the quality of the performer’s voice.

Many contestants come onto the show and share a personal story or experience that defines them and their motivation for auditioning for the show. Usually a video clip of the artist is shown which allows the audience to truly get to know where each contestant comes from.

“The X Factor” has emerged as an extremely popular show over the past two years and is still continuing to grow and add more exciting features. Don’t forget to tune in on Wednesday and Thursday on FOX at 8/7c to see who comes out on top.

Rating: 4 out of 5 stars

November 2013 Issue 2

The Wessex Wire Page 12

Girls’ Soccer

by Monica Krup ’14, Christine Laible ’14 & Dom Magliaro ’15

Record: 7-10-4 After being eliminated from the county tournament in the second round against Montclair, the girls’ soccer team was able to turn its season around, making it all the way to the Group 3 Section 2 final.

As the eight seed, they beat nine seed Colonia and went on to defeat

the one seed Cranford and four seed Governor Livingston. They played West Morris in the section final but lost 3-0.

“We started off slow but as the season went on, we came together as a team and by states we were able to show what we could do,” junior Shannon Bertscha said.

Record: 10-0 The West Essex Knights Varsity football team remains undefeated with a 10-0 record this season. After a 55-14 win against Barringer, the Knights received the title of conference champions for the SEC Liberty Division. The team beat Orange in the first round of states with a score

of 28-22 last Friday and will go on to play Parsippany Hills in the semifinal round of states tonight.

“This team has worked extremely hard. The seniors have shown great leadership and the underclassmen have done their jobs. Its great to be 10-0 but we want to accomplish a lot more,” Coach Benacquista said.

Football

Girls’ Tennis

Record: 12-8 This year’s tennis team went undefeated (6-0) within their conference and won the SEC Liberty Division Conference title. In the state tournament, they made it to the semifinals where they fell to Mendham. Individually, sophomore Sykler Simson advanced to the final round of the singles county tournament.

“We achieved our goal in winning the conference and we did the best we could in the states and we are happy with the outcome,” assistant coach Mr. Albanese said.

Photo courtesy of Kayla Torter Oyama makes history as she competes in the Group II championship.

Field Hockey

Record: 24-1 stronger after the game against Oak After defeating Millburn in the semi- Knoll and really came together as a team. final, the field hockey team won the After winning the State championship, I county title when they beat MKA in feel like we have a good chance to win the championthe Tournament ship, 3-1. of Champions The team and that also has our hard won the work will Group 2 pay off,” Section 2 junior title along Gab Giwith the rardi said.

Group 2 T h e Photo courtesy of Ms. Pezzuti title. They team only beat Parsippany The field hockey team celebrates lost one game in the section fi- their 1-0 victory over Wall High School. this season to Oak Knoll in nal and beat Wall High School 1-0 for the the regular season. The two teams played Group final, on a goal by senior captain again Nov. 20 in the Tournament of Steph Pezzuti.

Champions semifinal game at Rider Uni “Going through our season, we got versity (result too late for Wire deadline).

Marching band breaks record at ACCS competition

Photo courtesy of Mr. Bachmann Junior Brian Gieger prepares to compete at the Atlantic Coast

Cross Country Senior Carlysa Oyama came in 4th place in the section meet and moved on to the Group 2 championship meet in Holmdel where she came in 12th place out of 150 runners.

Oyama is the first runner in West Essex history to advance to the state group finals.

“It was a really great season. Coming in I didn’t know what to expect because I had never done cross country before, but I had amazing experiences. I just love my team.

They were all so supportive and continued to motivate me to do well even after their season was over and I was still competing. They all still came to support me during my last race and that really encouraged me to do my best,” Oyama said.

The West Essex Marching Band came in fourth place at the Atlantic Coast Championships, receiving a record high score of 95.15, which trumped its previous score of 94.85. Their performance “The Rite of Spring Recoiled,” a revamped version of a controversial ballet with intense music and a strong brass sound, helped them achieve this record-breaking score. Despite losing some key members of the wind section as well as a drum major, the Marching

Band still maintained their standing in the competition.

They were also awarded Best Brass Section in the Tournament of Bands.

The color guard contributed to the band’s success with the addition of a weapons line, which uses rifles and swords, a factor they have not had for some years.

“As long as they perform as best as they can, that is all that matters,” band director Mr. Scozzaro said.

Caroline Fiore ’14 Amherst College, Field Hockey James Panzarino ’14 Susquehanna University, Baseball Kaitlyn Struss ’14 Montclair State University, Field Hockey Nicholette Torsiello ’14 Alderson Broaddus University, Acrobatics &Tumbling Roberto LoCascio ’15 Villanova University, Lacrosse

November 2013

The Wessex Wire: Sports

Page 11

Precious ‘Mo’ments that will never be forgotten Yankee closer Mariano Rivera retires after years of success

by Nicolette Aktas ’14

“Enter Sandman” begins to play, and a sense of relief comes over Yankee Stadium. Number 42, Mariano Rivera, “Mo,” makes his way out of the bullpen, with his familiar and confident jog to the mound. Three outs later, ballgame over, Yankees win. The feeling is all too familiar, but the feeling is over, forever.

Commentary Mariano Rivera, the greatest closer to ever play the game of baseball, has officially retired following this season, after 19 years as a New York Yankee. Having played in 1115 games, the legend decided to close this chapter of his life.

As I walked into Yankee Stadium on Tuesday, Sept. 3, I hoped for a close game, rather than a blowout.

The Yankees rallied to take the lead

and Rivera was called to make the Tornatore said. save. I recorded his walk out from the Throughout this season, teams bullpen on my all around the MLB paid tribute to iPhone, and Rivera and his final season. Even watched him the Boston Red Sox gave save the game, thanks to Rivera, as they just as he had gave him one of the origidone over 600 nal seats from Fenway times before. I let Park, installed in 1934: that moment sink in for seat number 42 of a while. Everyone had course. The Los their phones out, taking Angeles Dodgers pictures or videos, even turngave him $10,000 ing the cameras on themselves to donated toward prove that they were truly there to see his charity and the him pitch. As “New York, New York” Colorado Rockies

by Frank Sinatra started to play, as it and Seattle Mariners does after every Yankees win, a feeleach gave $5,000, ing of immense sadness came over according to ESPN. Cartoon by Juan Gomez me. I had watched Nearly each team the greatest closer in baseball Rivera will be the last player to wear number 42 of all time, for the in the MLB, as the number was retired in 1997 in showed their last time. respects to honor of Jackie Robinson.

“The last time I the legend. saw him pitch it was very emotional. Red Sox fan, senior Adam Farkas, His career is unbelievable and he is even admitted to showing amounts one of the most respected people in of appreciation for Marianos’ talents. baseball,” senior pitcher Anthony “He was a great pitcher and will

always be remembered,” Farkas said.

As baseball season marks its end, I wonder what next season will bring.

The Yankees are no longer a young, thriving team. Pitcher Andy Pettitte retired this season and captain Derek Jeter is approaching 40 years old. The future is looking grim for the Yankees and without Mo watching each game from the bullpen, anxious to make his entrance, I wonder what is to come.

As a loyal Yankee fan my entire life, for the first time, I am not looking forward to next season.

As Mariano Rivera embarks on the next chapter of his life, he plans to spend more time with his family and his religion. He and his wife plan to open a Pentecostal Church, where she will be a pastor, according to New York Magazine.

Although this chapter may be ending for Rivera, it is just beginning for the many young fans, who have looked up to him. For years he has been their role model, as they admire his athletic abilitities and stoic character and he will continue to be, for decades to come.

Fall sport player profiles: Roberto LoCascio and Ryan Applewhite

by Amanda Uliano ’14

Team All-Essex County honors on the offensive end.

Roberto LoCascio LoCascio’s dominance has been evi Powerhouse junior Roberto Locas- dent from the beginning, but the young cio has been on the Varsity Football star proved himself during his breakout team since his freshman year, and has sophomore season. He finished with 90 shown his many strengths while playtackles to go along with one sack ing under head Coach Benacquista. and one interception apiece.

“Roberto is a gifted, natural As LoCascio finishes up his athlete who really loves the game junior season, he is aware and plays very physical. That is a that he has big shoes to fill great asset to our entire offensive next season in regards to both and defensive units,” said leadership and performance Coach Benacquista. as the team prepares to When he was just a lose 23 seniors. freshman, LoCascio got

“It’s been easy the chance to start in excelling at my the State Championship position just begame against River Dell cause the people at MetLife Stadium. He in front of me and was one of very few freshthe rest of my team man in West Essex history do such a great job,” to ever be brought onto the LoCascio said.

Varsity team in their first

“Roberto is year in high school. He has one of our most contributed to the Knights wel l - rounded players. He success on both sides of the is experienced and is a key field, playing middle contributor. I feel great Photo courtesy of Mr. Kross linebacker and left leaving this year with LoCascio has 60 tackles in seven guard. Last season, such a good player and games at this point in the season.

LoCascio was awarded leader like him to keep with Defensive Sophomore Player of the team going next season,” senior the Year as well as earning Second captain Joe Scaglia said.

Ryan Applewhite herself while playing a key role in the Sophomore Ryan Applewhite started defensive line. her soccer career when she was in third “Ryan is probably one of the grade. As the years have passed, hardest workers on our team. her success and love for the game She’s fast and athletic and will have grown alongside of her. definitely be a huge leader on After making the Varsity the field next year when we Soccer team as a freshman, leave,” senior captain Erica Applewhite got the imPerrotta said. pressive opportunity to Applewhite start in every game has set large goals of both the 2012 and for herself for the 2013 seasons. Playing next two seasons, left defense and midand ultimately field, Applewhite has created hopes to continue many scoring opportunities her soccer career for herself and her teammates. at the Division I Aside from playing for the collegiate level.

Knights, Applewhite contin “My biggest goal is to ues her hard work in the off never stop shooting. After season on the field with her being pushed back to detravel team, the Parsippany fense, I know I can only get U15 Cheetahs. so many chances to score, “She’s a natuand I want to start to make ral born leader, them count,” Applewhite said. strong player

As the team loses a total and always gives of 13 seniors at the end of Photo courtesy of Ms. Gingerelli 110 percent no this season, Applewhite matter what,” Although Applewhite is a defender she has continues to be hopeful managed to score and assist many goals. senior captain for the future.

Mel Felcher said.

“I hope that we get to a She has helped her team to victo- championship and come out victorious,” ries this season having one goal for Applewhite said.