The Wessex Wire (June 2013)

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

Vol. XLVI No. 6

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

June 2013

WEFE holds third annual 5K

by Annie Kluger ’14 help of the 281 participants and 366 regis The West Essex Foundation for Edu- trants including teachers, parents, students, cation (WEFE) held its third annual 5K athletes and members of the community.

Run/Walk Trotting The money for Technology on raised will be Sunday, May 19. The used by the race started and ended foundation to on the West Essex improve the campus and took route technology through the streets for the stuof North Caldwell. dents in the WEFE is a foundation West Essex that works toward imHigh School proving the quality of and Middle education for students School. “I in the West Essex Refeel like we gional School District. Photo courtesy of Mrs. Blanchard should take Photo by Sydelle Barreto “We have a great advantage of 5K committee. We P r i n c i p a l M r . S u d a a n d s t u d e n t every opporhave been meeting A l e c R e e d p r e p a r e f o r t h e r a c e . tunity to help for the last year,” our school,” said foundation member Mrs. Haramis. said senior Nick Soriano.

“This is the largest turn out.”

Alex Alvarado, 30, was the first partici The foundation raised $18,000 with the pant to cross the finish line with a time of

Photo courtesy of Mrs. Freeman R u n n e r s t a k e t h e i r m a r k s a t t h e s t a r t i n g l i n e in front of the high school.

18:38. Senior Griffin Glenn was the first West Essex student to finish at 19:22.

Among those students who participated in the event was senior Special Olympics athlete Alec Reed. Reed ran the entire race side by side with Principal Mr. Suda. “It’s fantastic. He did Special Olympics and Mr. Suda asked if we could give him the honor of starting the race. He is an inspiration to all students,” said Haramis.

Reed was very excited to be able to participate in the race along with his principal.

“I love to run,” Reed said. Though he prepared the race running and working Photofor courtesy of by Mrs. Blanchard out he felt that he might face the challenge

of keeping up along the way.

Keeping up was not the only challenge that Reed and other runners had to face during the race, however. The weather also posed potential difficulties for the participants. “[The rain] was painful, but not as painful as the running. I’m not the Wicked Witch of the West, the rain didn’t hurt me,” Dean of Students Mr. Diliberto said.

Despite the inclement weather, the community came together to support West Essex. “I’m just glad I finished. I didn’t run to win I just wanted to give back. It’s a great cause,” said Mrs. Emering.

Mrs. Dormer recognized as 2013 Teacher of the Year Election results

by Bryan Gallion ’15

Art teacher Mrs. Dormer was awarded with the Governor’s Teacher Recognition Award for the 2012-2013 school year at the faculty meeting held on May 6.

Also known as the “Teacher of the Year” Award, this accolade was first introduced to the state of New Jersey in 1985 with the intent of acknowledging outstanding teaching performances in each district.

Winners of this title must possess expertise in a certain content area and have the ability to educate students in an engaging manner. They must also show commendable interpersonal skills when communicating with students, parents, colleagues and administrators as well as create a respectful learning environment.

Faculty members nominated Mrs. Dormer and other teachers for this honor including mathematics teacher Mrs. Celentano, English teacher Ms. Macaluso, history teachers Mrs. Ford and Mrs. Vaknin, art teacher Ms. Procaccino and Spanish teacher Mrs. Williams. A

Inside This Issue:

6-7

committee of administrators, parents taught by Mrs. Dormer say that they and previous winners then selected Mrs. will never forget what they have learned from her.

Dormer as the recipient.

“It was a great experience to be recog- “Mrs. Dormer taught me to think outside the box nized by the committee, and look at art in a comand I know pletely difthat I only ferent way. represent the She always hard work of all the teachprompts her students to ers here,” Mrs. challenge Dormer said. themselves Mrs. Dormer has been and helps us reach our full in the West Photo by Sami Silverman potential,” Essex school Mrs. Dormer poses with her student’s artwork. sophomore district for 35 Art History years and currently teaches AP Art History, Drawing & student Joanna Zotti said.

Composition and Studio Art I. She also Mrs. Dormer said, “If you are interested advises the West Essex chapter of the Na- in art, it opens up the entire world. I am so tional Art Honor Society and the school’s excited when a student gets a new idea or Art Club. is able to apply what they have learned in Many students who have taken classes my class to their life outside of school.”

Arts & Culture

Summer Reviews: “DEMI,” FOB, “Gatsby”

12

Sports

Looking back on spring sports’ seasons

School Council President: Greg Contaldi Vice President: Daniel Kenny Secretary: Carlysa Oyama Treasurer: Caroline Fiore Ambassadors: Drew Pappas and Marisa Racamato Public Relations: Channon Chung and Kelly Cousoulis Class of 2014 President: Nicolette DeVincenzo Vice President: Andie Silverstein Secretary:Nicolette Aktas Treasurer:Victoria Agrifolio Class of 2015 President: Stephanie Spero Vice President: Michael Wang Secretary: Michael Cesare Treasurer: Noah Eagle Class of 2016 President: Evan Snerson Vice President: Matt Jones Secretary: Isabelle Caine Treasurer: Sheri Astorino

June 2013

The Wessex Wire: News

Safe driving advocate shares her story

by Annie Kluger ’14 and Bryan Gallion ’15

and leg. She was in surgery for eight and a half hours, and doctors gave her a 10 percent chance of survival.

Jacy Good, national speaker and ad- Good has devoted her life to informvocate for roads without cell phone use, ing people across the country about told her story to juniors and sophomores the importance of staying away from on June 5. While on her way home from cell phones while driving. Her voice her graduation ceremony at Muhlen- mail Photo

by Val Panza even says, “I’m busy or I might berg College on May 18, 2008, Good be driving right now.” and her Photo by Heather Krannich Aside parents f r o m were vicspeaktims of a ing out serious about car crash this isdue to an s u e , 18-yearG o o d old using also tries his cell to pass phone l a w s while banning d r i v i n g . G o o d m e e t s w i t h s t u d e n t s a f t e r h e r p r e s e n t a t i o n . the use Both of of cell G o o d ’s phones parents died upon impact. Her mother, while driving. She has even gone to an eighth grade English teacher, was the United Nations and “The Oprah not wearing her seat belt at the time of Winfrey Show” to reiterate her message the accident. to the public.

“I want you to learn from my mom’s Many students said that they learned mistake. Seat belts keep people alive a lesson from the presentation and more than anything else you can do on vowed to refrain from using their cell the road,” Good said. phones while driving. Junior Mike Good suffered a multitude of injuries Dontas said, “It was inspirational and including brain trauma that caused her moving. Although she’s been through to lose the ability to move her left arm a lot she was still optimistic.”

Page 2

Club Bytes

Reported by Anthony Gagliardi ’16, Cathryn Kessler ’16 and Brianna Crummy ’16

Art Club

While walking down the halls of West Essex, students are constantly surrounded by work produced by the school’s Art Club. The purpose of this club is to give students more time to concentrate on their passion for art. The adviser for the club is Mrs. Dormer, an AP Art History and Drawing & Composition teacher. The Art Club’s projects consist of murals for the PTO and sending districts and decorations for school and sports events. “Art Club is a time for students to focus solely on their passion for artwork. You are able to express yourself through art,” said freshman club member Rachel LaPenta.

Math League

The Math League is composed of students who show great interest in mathematics and they meet every Wednesday to complete math problems. Ms. Cammarano and Ms. Richards are the club advisers who help to prepare members for competitions.

Members have taken the American Mathematics Competitions (AMC) test, part of a mathematical competition intended to strengthen the minds of young math students.

The Math League participated in another contests in which students from all over Essex County competed. “I love being a part of this club. As a teacher, it’s great to see students have such a passion for math,” said Ms. Cammarano.

Masquers

This year’s productions of “Our Town” and “Sweeney Todd” are the works of West Essex’s Masquers. This student-based theater group is for those interested in the performing arts. Directed by Ms. Sorrentino, members participate in acting, singing and dancing to better themselves as artists. “The club is an awesome experience and an amazing way to show off talent, work with an amazing cast and form relationships. You are able to reach your goals musically and work with amazing people,” said freshman Masquers member Kaitlyn Aussenheimer.

The “One Man Gang” performs

a friend that I would continue writing [poetry] when I left. So that’s basically what I Joseph Robbins, a poetry performer did,” Robbins said. with a unique style, visited West Essex An advocate for audience interon April 30 to share his talents with stuaction, Robbins also conducted a dents. He performed multiple poems for workshop for Ms. Macaluso’s AP students that signed up during lunch and Literature classes. Students were able study periods and conducted workshops to experiment with writing to further for select Engdeepen their lish classes. interest and Robbins is improve currently an their overEnglish teachall writing er, but travels to abilities. various schools Aside to share his from Robwork. He did b i n s ’ p e rnot find his formances calling in poand school etry early on visits, he Photo by Sami Silverman in life; rather, recently Robbins shares his poems with students in the library. he was an aspublished piring rapper and released two albums. his first book, “One Man Gang.” A But with his decision to attend New compilation of his poems, the book York University for graduate school, he sold for $15 with a portion of the discovered a passion for poetry. Robbins profits being donated to charity. began performing at poetry festivals and “When I’m not in the classroom, I his exclusive style incorporating both want to be educating and writing. I musicality and rhymes caught on. love having the ability to do what I “While living in California before love, while also making a difference,” moving to New York City, I promised Robbins said.

by Victoria Agrifolio ’14

Photo by Sydelle Barreto

Photo courtesy of Mrs. Bruno West Essex students Kyle Malig, Alec Reed, Michael Candido, Michael John Sabato and Dominic Romano participated in the Special Olympics held at Brookdale Park in Montclair on April 24. The events that they paticipated in included the long jump and the 100 yard dash.Teacher Mrs. Bauer helped to organize the event while West Essex students Cassandra Torter, Katie Minden, Alyssa Schweighardt and Kayla Theobald served as volunteers. Pictured above are Reed, Schweighardt, Minden and Malig.

Opinion

June 2013 Issue 6

Editorial

The constitutionality of gay rights has received much public attention within the past decade, the most prominent being the “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” policy enforced in the army. Even though homosexuals are slowly gaining marriage rights one state at a time, their fight for equality is not even close to being over.

On May 23, the Boy Scouts of America expressed their new policy of acceptance of gay youths into the program based on a vote, an incredible step for such an esteemed organization. Yet, the national organization continues to exclude gay adults from participation. With that said, gay Boy Scouts can only consider themselves dedicated until they reach adulthood or rather, Venture Scouts at the age of 21. After that, the discriminatory policy adheres to them.

These policies along with the recent coming out of Jason Collins, the first openly gay athlete playing in a major American team sport, are proof of progress, yet have heightened the hatred among those opposed of same-sex relationships. Already, Boy Scouts and church sponsors have been revoking their membership and affiliation with the league. Although these amendments are receiving great recognition, it should not shed any less light on the hate crimes that still erupt in reaction to this progress.

It seems as America takes one step forward for gay rights, it then takes two steps back. Hopefully, the media will continue to expose the suffering among homosexuals, helping Americans learn acceptance and progress towards nondiscriminatory equality.

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

News Editors Annie Kluger ’14 Bryan Gallion ’15 Features Editors Jen Fabiano ’14 Helena Voltmer ’14

2012-2013 STAFF:

Editors-in-chief Victoria Agrifolio ’14

Nicolette DeVincenzo ’14

Geena Martorana ’14

Arts & Culture Editors Sydelle Barreto ’14 Jackie Gualtieri ’14

Opinion Editors Christine Laible ’14 Alec Molesworth ’14 Junior Opinion Editor Ben Lowenthal ’15

Photo Editors Nina Sisco ’14 Kevin Fox ’14

Sports Editors Nicolette Aktas’14 Anna George ’14

Advertising Editors Jackie Renda ’14 Monica Onorata ’15

Copy Editors Monica Krup ’14 Nicole Lieb ’14

Research Editor Steph Pezzuti ’14

Adviser Ms. Lo

Managing Editor Andie Silverstein ’14 Art Director Sami Silverman ’14 Contributing Staff Louis Coniglio ’13 Ali McCabe ’13 Bridget Delehanty ’14 Juan Gomez ’14 Heather Krannich ’14 Amanda Uliano ’14 Noah Eagle ’15 Dom Magliaro ’15 Luke Magliaro ’15 Rose Pezzuti ’15 Brianna Crummy ’16 Anthony Gagliardi ’16 Cathryn Kessler ’16

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.

The Wessex Wire Page 3

Collins changes the game

The first openly gay athlete in American sports

by Ali McCabe ’13

Collins came out to Sports Illustrated where he said, “If I had my

The NBA is comprised of monsters. way, someone else would have already Seven foot men made of muscle, who done this. Nobody has, which is why spend their lives dedicated to trampling I’m raising my hand.” He also went their opponents on the court. Jason Col- on later to say that he had decided lins of the Washington Wizards is one to come out because he was tired of of them, but behind his steel demeanor, pretending like he was something that it seems he has hidden a heart of gold. he was not. “The most you can do is On Monday, April 29, Collins became stand up for what you believe in. I’m the first male athlete in the U.S. in a much happier since coming out to my major professional sport to come out as friends and family. Being genuine and honest makes me happy.” being gay before his retirement.

Collins’ acceptance of He is not, however, the first himself in a sport in which openly gay professional he is the only openly gay athlete. Robbie Rogers, a man is inspirational, and new member of the Los because of this, he will help Angeles Galaxy, came other professional athletes out in a blog post this of all ages break down the past February. Although gay stereotype and become Rogers’ act should not who they truly are. be discredited, his However, while Colcoming out has not lins’ acceptance is a had the same impact big step for the gay as Collins’, who community. In all plays in one of the reality, by 2013, Big Four North i t ’s a s t o n i s h i n g American sports. that a topic like this Standing at seven one is still making headfeet tall and comprised lines. Jason Collins is a of lean muscle, Collins professional athlete, one pretty much obliterates who has dedicated many the gay male stereotype. hours to the profession he He is not “soft” and is passionate about, and “frilly” and he is most certainly not weak, Photo courtesy of nytimes.com it’s appalling that the only reason why his name and because of Jason Collins of the Washington Wizards makes is currently sweepthis fact, Col- history as the first openly gay NBA player. ing headlines around lins’ confession hits home in the hearts of America. the country is because of his sexual However, it was never Collins’ inten- orientation. Collins’ confession is tion to become a game-changer in the giving rise to an even greater question expectations of professional athletes at hand: why do we even care about and the type of people they’re supposed the sexual orientation of our favorite athletes, or anyone at all? to represent.

West Essex comments on Collins Tyler Katz ’14: “His personal life shouldn’t affect his professional life.”

Mr. Scozzaro: “A bold move, it’s what this country needed.”

Shannon Bertscha ’15: “It was probably very difficult for him to be so public about something so personal.”

Michael Markus ’14: “Unless someone more famous comes out, it won’t make a difference.”

Emily D’Elia ’14: “It’s great that he has come out and he will hopefully inspire other athletes and young people to be open with who they are.”

June 2013

The Wessex Wire: Opinion

The glitch in the system

Students fight to change GPA weight

by Bridget Delehanty ’14

High school students are encouraged to challenge themselves by selecting a rigorous course schedule.

We are told that if we take tougher classes we are more likely to get accepted to a “reach” college. Seeing as getting to college is a goal of most West Essex students, many are determined to do so and push themselves to take all Honors and Advanced Placement level courses. The spirits of these students are crushed when they realize that their GPA suffer because of these difficult courses.

Many students believe it is unfair that a diligent student in higher courses can have a lower GPA than a student in lower courses. While the students in CPA classes do work hard, it is inevitable that the workloads in the higher classes are more challenging. Despite these difficulties, students in AP classes are not graded with a significant difference in grade point average. The discrepancy does not make sense considering the levels of difficulty are very different from one another.

“Why would I take an AP class when I know that I could get an easy ‘A’ in a CPA class as opposed to a hard-earned ‘B’ in an AP class?” said

junior Max Karp.

In order to help future students, a new grading system could be proposed that would be implemented in place of the current one. In one idea for a brand new system, an “A” in a CPA class could have the same weight as a “B” in an honors class and a “C” in an AP class. This way, the difficulty of the AP classes is taken into account.

The very popular University of Maryland would like all of its students to have achieved a 3.9 GPA by the time they finish high school.

Similarly, the University of Michigan rarely accepts applicants with below a 4.0 GPA. These standards become harder and harder to achieve as the rigor of one’s class schedule increases, dissuading students from taking these challenging courses.

A new grading system would make the high school experience of the students in Honors and AP level courses more enjoyable by decreasing the pressure that a low GPA provides. It would also give them the credit that they deserve for challenging themselves with difficult courses. An improved grading system would not hurt any students; it would only help those who put in the hard work.

Page 4

Does it bother you...?

by Alec Molesworth ’14

Does it bother you when people celebrate their relationships in public? You know, that grand gesture where the boy takes the girl through the school halls with pictures depicting their time together plastered on the walls? When they arrive at the end of the tour to a bouquet of flowers and gourmet chocolates with a letter saying “I’m so glad I met you!”, “You complete me!” or something like that? When they embrace and laugh at us poor sods who still haven’t found a “soul mate?”

Yes, it disgusts me, too. The frustration I feel every time I see two people walking down the hallway holding hands surprises even me. A guy and a girl, two guys, two girls, a guy and his imaginary friend, I don’t discriminate: I hate them all equally. Speaking as a piece of mancandy who’s still single, I find it frightening that men will go to such great lengths to please their ladies.

Regardless, PDA (which, unless you’re Emma Stone, is not okay), is a real issue.

Whenever I see two love birds hugging in the middle of the hallway, I fall into a depression matched only by Ron Burgundy in “Anchorman.” Then I lie in bed with a bucket of Haagen-Dazs chocolate ice cream and watch “The Amazing Spiderman,” blocking out Andrew Garfield’s face with my hand and focusing on Emma Stone, imagining our life together.

Might this feeling be bitterness over my inability to find a girlfriend? Could it

Photo by Nina Sisco Alec Molesworth gazes onward, deep in thought.

be that I am simply frustrated over womankind’s apparent attempt to deny me at every possible turn?

Well, maybe. Maybe every time I see a couple walking down the hall I am reminded of the dark corner of society to which I have been abandoned. Naturally, I blame the females. Whenever I really like a girl, I pull out all the stops trying to impress her: awkward stares, awkward jokes and awkward touching of sweaty palms. Sometimes it works, but most of the time it doesn’t.

This brings me back to my original point. While it restores my faith in humanity (not many things do) that there are people in the world who care for one another, I don’t want them to shove their love in my face.

When they do, though, Haagen-Dazs always has a boost in sales.

The Procrasti-nation: The plague that is sweeping the halls of West Essex Slacking-off, making excuses and avoiding school work at all costs

by Christine Laible ’14

The students at West Essex belong to a certain nation: The “Procrastination.” Living here is hard when students are continually bombarded with work, from the insignificant worksheet to the massive essay worth a third of the marking period grade. School is supposed to teach students to have a good work ethic, so they are able to better manage their time when they get to the real world.

The only issue lies in the students: they can be lazy.

Sure, they may have the occasional spurt of motivation, but most of the time this is short lived.

It is unsurprising that a student, given a homework assignment weeks in advance, will do it the day before it’s due. This clearly shows that West Essex is suffering from a

procrastination plague. Symptoms such as students scribbling on a piece of paper on the way to class and entire books being read during a study are

up into more manageable sections.

2.Try to make it fun! Reward yourself with a snack after working on homework for a certain amount of

Cartoon by Juan Gomez

running rampant throughout the halls.

There a few simple steps that can make it very easy to cope with the work load assigned. All you have to do is take these procrastination “pointers” to break your habit: 1.Take a big assignment and break it

time (kind of like a dog in training).

3.Don’t stress out. If you don’t freak out about a project it becomes much easier to complete it.

These suggestions should solve your procrastination crisis. The problem is, they won’t. No matter how

hard students fight the tendency to procrastinate, they will inevitably find themselves writing nonsense on their worksheets seconds before the teacher comes around.

The only real way I find I can cope with procrastination is by doing everything right away. I know that if I put it off, I will have even less time later. I also always try to utilize a free or study period as effectively as possible.

Homework is never going to be fun. It might not even be bearable. It will probably be like watching paint dry while listening to nails on a chalkboard. But it’s really just about powering through and getting it done. Most of the time it will be hard to motivate yourself to do your work as soon as possible, but getting it done will be well worth it. Or you can simply learn to only operate on two hours of sleep, and do all the work the night before.

Arts

&

Culture

June 2013 Issue 6

The Wessex Wire Page 5

Summer blockbusters versus true winter masterpieces If one were to think about last December, one would remember the beauty and tragedy of “Les Miserables,” the drama and heart-pounding of “Zero Dark Thirty,” the love and sorrow of “Amour” and the pure, unadulterated gore of “Django Unchained.” Although none of these movies seem to have anything in common, they do share some similar ground. They are all Oscar-winning movies.

In the coming summer months, the theaters will see a very different type of movies, the type that always seems to come around every summer. “The Internship,” a supposed-comedy features Owen Wilson and Vince Vaughn as they compete against geniuses at Google for internships. Yet another superhero movie hits the screens as “Man of Steel” and an unneeded sequel comes out in the form of “Despicable Me 2.” I’m pretty sure it’s safe to say that none of these movies will receive Oscar nods

friends will play themselves, facing the anytime soon.

“The Avengers” was the big summer hit apocalypse together. last year and, though it wasn’t Oscar-wor- These movies aren’t critically acclaimed either and maythy, many enjoyed be, knowing that the superhero-filled this fact is true, I film. According to shouldn’t want to The New York Times, see them. However, “The Avengers” took I plan to be the first in $200.3 million in in line to see Jacktheir opening weekman’s supposedend, smashing the ly-last Wolverine record for the biggest movie and I think opening weekend of all time. it makes sense that I should go. It’s Some movies this summer and I’m a summer are on track teenager. Logically, for the same sort of I shouldn’t want to success. Hugh Jackman soon makes his Actors such as James Franco and Jay Ba- go see a movie that epic return in “The ruchel star, unexpectedly, as themselves in probably won’t be this post-apocalyptic hit, “This is The End.” that great to begin Wolverine.” James with, but I have the Franco and Seth Rogen continue their bromance in “This is time to waste to do it, not to mention the the End,” when they and many celebrity friends that will drag me to the movies they Photo courtesy of schmoesknow.com

by Jacqueline Gualtieri ’14

want to see.

Directors know this reality as they are far smarter than most of us give them credit for.

Somewhere, in some secret headquarters, test groups are telling them, “Add in James Franco. Oh, yeah, get his little brother, Dave, in on it, too. They’ll eat that up! Oh, you wanted to make a piece on WWI? Like a documentary? Scratch that. Go with crass.

Aim for ‘The Hangover Part 4,’ but change the title just in case they start to catch on.”

They are banking on the fact that teenagers have the time and the money to waste to see these films.

Only in the summer do movies play to the teens. Autumn and winter roll around and young adults are no longer the major players. Few teenagers enjoy watching foreign language films in which the main characters are 80 year olds reassessing their lives. Enjoy the summer while it lasts and take in the movies that won’t be around in fall. Just don’t expect an Oscar nod for Seth Rogen’s performance in “This is the End.”

Throwback Thursday craze “HIMYM”nearing final season

by Nina Sisco ’14

Although the anxiety of waiting to post is Every week, Instagram users wait in hard to contain, students should wait until anticipation for the slew of “Throwback 8 to 9 p.m. “Everyone’s scrolling through Thursday” (#tbt) posts that transform the their news feeds at that time,” said Soriano. program’s news feed into a clip reel of Regardless of the “instalove” received pictures ranging from infant years to the on regular posts, users feel more inclined previous weekend. West Essex students to like throwback pictures. Junior Marissa have definitely embraced the trend and Cafone, already known for receiving over have dedicated #tbt posts to allow their fol- 100 likes on her regular pictures, agrees that baby shots receive lowers to get a glimpse more love. “A cute of their past. throwback is bound The focus on #tbt to get more likes has gone beyond just than just a normal choosing a photo from picture,” she said. the past. Students have Cafone’s highest made getting the most throwback, posing amount of “likes” an in a denim dress with important priority. a Barbie backpack Sophomore Kristina before the first day Soriano said, “People of school, received really thrive off of how an outstanding 208 many likes they get. If Photo courtesy of Marissa Cafone likes. For a kid lookthey don’t think it’ll ing to boost his get a lot of likes, they Cafone’s most popular Throwback Thursday Instagram popuwon’t post it.” picture, depicting her first day of school. larity, a good #tbt The process of is the key to rechoosing the right picture begins with searching through old ceiving a hefty amount of likes. albums and framed photographs around Whether capturing the essence of an the house. “I always send my friends my awkward childhood or reminiscing on a options and ask them which one I should recent event, the #tbt trend enables kids to choose,” said sophomore Matt Boyd, “It’s share any moment from their pasts. “Peoa good way of seeing which picture every- ple love posting baby pics and getting likes is part of the fun,” said Boyd, “Throwback one else will like.”

Timing can make or break a throwback. Thursday will never die out.”

by Ben Lowenthal ’15

WARNING: The following article contains spoilers of the televison show “How I Met Your Mother.”

After eight years of pulling in an audience eager to discover the answer to “television’s best kept secret,” “How I Met Your Mother” finally throws its fans a bone. A glimpse at

Review the face of the future Mrs. Ted Mosby (Cristin Milioti) felt like a mini-finale to devoted viewers, who have been waiting while Ted (Josh Radnor) has been telling his children the story of how he met their mother.

An architect in his mid-30s, Ted has been searching for “the one” since 2005. He’s not only covered how his life has played out, but the lives of his four closest friends Marshall and Lily Erickson (Jason Segel and Alyson Hannigan), his two closest friends from college, Barney Stinson (Neil Patrick Harris), who played the role of a serial womanizer for the majority of the show’s episodes and Robin Scherbatsky (Cobie Smulders), Ted’s love interest throughout the show who becomes Barney’s current fiancé.

While it all may seem irrelevant to

an event that takes place in 2013, the show is still somehow able to tie all of its strings together.

Up until the eighth season, the details surrounding the show’s namesake were limited to Photo the location, Barney

by Sam Gilbert and Robin’s wedding. With no following seasons planned, the show rushed to fill in the gaps.The initial tempo was almost too much to handle at the time and it seemed that the characters began to speed through important moments in their lives without letting viewers relish in them. It truly felt like the show had “jumped the shark” and would tread water for another painful season until finally submitting to a series finale. Yet, in typical “How I Met Your Mother” fashion, the show was once again able to regain interest by revealing additional “mother information” with a season finale that left many with hopeful spirits.

The future of “How I Met Your Mother” may still be unclear but the added motive of knowing what the mysterious mother looks like is enough for fans to continue tuning in.

The long anticipated ending to a nineyear mystery is sure to spark some debate among audiences, as well as some tears, when the show returns for its final season to CBS in September this fall.

3.5 out of 5 stars

Summer music and movie reviews cap June 2013

The Wessex Wire: Arts & Culture

Page 6

Demi Lovato proves to be a true “Warrior” with her new album release Saying that Demi Lovato has faced adversity within the last two years would be an understatement.

After struggling with self-injurious behavior, bulimia, bipolar disorder and having to confront the millions of people watching every step of her journey unfold on a television screen, the 20 year old pop star is coming back stronger than ever with her self-titled album, “DEMI,” which was released on May 14.

Though Lovato released her single “Skyscraper” in 2012 as part of her third full-length studio album, which discussed her internal struggles and her determination to fight back, her fourth album “DEMI” serves as an audio-documentary of her life and career from start to finish. The music remains more true to Lovato’s style and genre than that on her 2012 album “Unbroken.”

The first track and single off of “DEMI,” “Heart Attack,” sets the tone for the following 13 tracks.

The song’s catchy melodies make it bound to be played at parties, clubs

and on radio stations throughout the ways without self-harm. summer, while still acting as the epit- “DEMI,” just like the artist herself, ome of strength and ferocity. Lovato has the perfect blend of edginess, declares mainstream that she is pop appeal “putting and rock [her] deballad vofenses up,” cals. “Neon protecting Lights” has herself a familiar from ever sound of getting what teenhurt again agers typiby a boy cally dance and more to, while important“Really ly never Don’t Care” letting has the atherself betitude of a come oversingle teen whelmed who wants to by her have fun with e m o her girls. tions. As The cover of Demi Lovato’s new album, “DEMI,” showing her C h e r strength and beauty after her triumphant return. she holds Lloyd was up her a featured fists to sing these lines in her music rapper on the album, but certainly video, her “Stay Strong” tattoos on should have been cut from the final her wrists are exposed, serving as mo- track. The random rap verse in the tivation to express herself in healthy middle of “Really Don’t Care” seems Photo courtesy of thewaltdisneycompany.com

by Geena Martorana ’14

cheesy and disingenuous to Lovato’s style, as Lloyd only comes across as a Nicki Minaj wannabe. Despite this slip-up on track eight, Lovato throws in heart-wrenchers like “Nightingale” and “Warrior” to the mix to counteract the presence of too much cookie-cutter pop and the ballads give her a chance to showcase her strong soprano vocals.

From start to finish listeners are taken on a journey and are able to see the incredible progress Lovato has made as a musician as well as a human being since her first album release at the age of 16. She has blossomed from a shy, impressionable and vulnerable young teen into a strong, self-identified “Warrior,” as she describes within the song, “Now I’ve got thicker skin, I’m a warrior, I’m stronger than I’ve ever been.”

This transformation has allowed her to pour emotion into every single note and to be comfortable in her own skin. Though some songs on “DEMI” stray too far into the mainstream dance-pop industry, the true message still shines through.

4 out of 5 stars

Fall Out Boy: saving more than just rock and roll “Sometimes we make jokes, and people just don’t get it.”

Since Fall Out Boy (FOB) went on The album is a departure from their hiatus in 2009, fans have been loy- previous work, proving itself to be ally waiting for a reunion. With their much more divergent from Fall Out most recent release the band met and Boy’s punk rock roots. However, the exceeded rebelfans’ expeclious untations of a dertones triumphant paired comeback with lead album. The singer tongue- inPatrick cheek title, Stump’s “Save Rock incrediand Roll”, ble vocal was misinrange is terpreted a familby many to iar part be a maniof FOB’s Photo courtesy of ireport.cz festation of repermusical hu- Fall Out Boy returns after their four year hiatus to a welcoming toire. bris, but as and still loyal audience that received their new and surprising Highlight album with open arms and eager ears.

Pete Wentz, tracks bass guitarinclude, ist, told the crowd at the Skate and “Young Volcanoes,” “The Phoenix” Surf music festival on May 18, and “Where Did the Party Go?” Elton

by Sydelle Barreto ’14

John and Courtney Love also made surprising appearances on the album.

However, Love and John’s contributions were unnecessary, not meshing well with the unique musical style that band members Stump, Wentz, drummer Andy Hurley and guitarist Joe Trohman create.

Prominent drums and thrumming vocals characterize this album, beginning with the foot stomping, rockcentric tune, “The Phoenix”, almost a symbolic nod to Fall Out Boy’s rapid rise to the top of the charts following their comeback. “Young Volcanoes,” an anthem to youth and the foolish decisions of young minds, is definitely the most catchy tune. What makes FOB’s new piece a standout from the other summer releases is the blend of genres that the band flawlessly creates. Stump’s vocals, ranging from smooth soul to gritty emo punk helps the band appeal to a wider audience.

Fall Out Boy made good use of this crowd pleaser at Skate and Surf, encouraging the crowd to clap along

to the beat. The title track “Save Rock and Roll” has a slightly softer tone, a ballad with the bite of punk. This title song really serves to epitomize the mixing of musical stylings that Fall Out Boy is known for.

After four years, Fall Out Boy’s loyal fanbase got more than they deserved with this enigmatic and unique album. While many fans were surprised by the new elements that FOB incorporated into the tracks, the band’s musical evolution proved to be a blessing in disguise.

Overall, “Save Rock and Roll” proved to be the cream of the crop of FOB’s offerings, including beautifully rendered vocals backed by catchy, rhythmic beats, all topped off with the brilliantly cheeky attitude that Fall Out Boy simply does best.

This band is just getting its act back together again, but steadfast fans and newcomers alike can expect a lot more to come from this “Comeback of the Year.”

4 out of 5 stars

ptivate, inspire and rev up audiences June 2013

The Wessex Wire: Arts & Culture

Page 7

The true greatness of today’s “Gatsby”

by Andie Silverstein ’14

WARNING: The following article contains spoilers of the movie and novel “The Great Gatsby.”

Since 1926, F. Scott’s Fitzgerald’s novel “The Great Gatsby” has been created into a film and translated onto the big screen five times. Although Robert Redford had the spotlight as the most famous Gatsby for quite some time, Leonardo DiCaprio truly put up a good fight. The film’s scenes, music and clothing were a perfect combination of the Roaring ’20s and the modern age.

The three dimensional viewing option made this edition very unique from the others. However, some feel that the emphasis on the high quality, visual appearance compromised the actual content and material of the film, resulting in the scenes being overdone and overwhelming.

While the modern essence was an interesting, yet controversial take for the 2013 version of the film, a more important factor of the movie was its relation to the original novel.

Most of the movie, including specific lines and phrases, reflected an accurate portrayal of Fitzgerald’s words.

However, some important events

were lost in translation.

Some felt that the music was not The movie premiered on May suitable for the content of the film.

10. The box office racked in a sur- I, however, felt that the recognizable prisingly high $51 million for the music was a perfect upbeat and excitrelease. The greatest response to ing soundtrack. The modern music the film, especially within its open- created a bridge between the 1920s ing weekend, was t o t h e and the modern day. The soundtrack soundtrack. was a great touch for the Although the film and Jay-Z, movie was who alongside set to take with Luhrmann place in the made very ‘20s, current day wise decisions rap, R & B within the and hip field of hop mumusic. sic ac T h e compaactors nied the and acscenes. tresses The movin the i e ’s a l film exbum was ceeded e x e c u - Photo courtesy of flowermuse.com my extively pectap r o - Mulligan and DiCaprio embrace, displaying the tangled and timeless tions. d u c e d love of Daisy and Gatsby amidst the tumultous 1920s. DiCaprio portrays D i an endearingly earnest Gatsby, utterly besotted with the elusive Daisy.

by JayCaprio Z and w a s included a variety of music by Fer- compelling and truly made me feel gie, Lana Del Rey, Florence and the his pains and desires. His love moMachine, Jay-Z, Amy Winehouse, tivated actions allowed the viewer Beyonce, U2 and will.i.am. to interpret his past and understand

how Luhrmann wanted the audience to perceive him as Jay Gatsby.

Tobey Maguire played his role as a confused outsider flawlessly.

Although I did not feel such an attachment to him as narrator Nick Carraway when I was watching the film, I grew an appreciation for his character over time. The audience is not supposed to “love” Nick; he is not intended to be some “dreamy, take your breath away” type of male.

Carey Mulligan played Daisy Buchanan. I enjoyed watching her in this role because she is so delicate and reserved. Fitzgerald would have certainly been pleased with an actress such as Mulligan because she perfectly captured Daisy’s naivety and her love-struck confusion.

Some critics say that Fitzgerald’s work is “unfilmable.” If this statement is true, why have there been so many remakes of the movie through the years? The novel is so timeless and complex that it catches the attention of several different types of moviegoers. It appeals to a wide audience. After the special effects, hip music and controversy that the 2013 version possessed, yet another remake is unthinkable.

4 out of 5 stars

I ended up really enjoying it and finding new bands that I listen to a lot now,” said junior Sam Russo.

Despite the constant rain on Saturday night, the show went on and the loyal attendees enjoyed the show that their favorite performers put on. For me, that was the duo of Timeflies. The performers were able to perform the same as always, with beach balls thrown into the crowd and the two artists, Cal Shapiro and Rob Resnick (Rez), were as able to sing along to the songs and dance to the music (with the little space I had). Cal and Rez performed their new single “I Choose U,” along with various other original and cover songs.

Fall Out Boy followed Timeflies, at which time I exited from the crowd as a precaution. I was able to listen to and enjoy the show from the sideline. Even though I was not very familiar with

many songs by the band, I still fully enjoyed the set they put on, as did the rest of the devoted FOB crowd.

“The day was full of meeting new people, listening to new music and dancing with friends. It was awesome to see some of my favorite artists all in one night,” said junior Daniela Forte. The Skate and Surf Festival was a thrilling day for all who attended.

Skate and Surf music festival proves to be a success for fans

by Jen Fabiano ’14

The Skate and Surf concert was the epitome of a summer music festival, except for the fact that it rained most of the weekend. The rain, though, did not seem to damper the performers’ nor the attendees’ attitudes.

The concert was held in the parking lot of Six Flags Great Adventure on Sat., May 18 and Sun., May 19. The location allowed the concertgoers to also have access to the amusement park and thrilling rides, which allowed for a whole day or weekend filled with action.

The day was well organized with the purpose of keeping those in attendance entertained. While not watching performances or on rides, one could mull around the parking lot to the myriad of booths set up to promote bands or sell clothing. Fans could even wait in line

to get signatures from their favorite bands. Also, one could meet designer Jac k Vanek at her booth, where she was selling the clothing from her line.

During the day, some of the lessknown performers put on shows to any of those willing to stop by and watch. These entertainers included Jake Miller, T. Mills, Chris Webby, Breathe Carolina, Cartel and many more. At night, some of the more popular bands performed on the main stage. These bands included Lights, Streetlight Manifesto, Mayday Parade, Timeflies and the crowd’s favorite on Saturday night, Fall Out Boy. On Sunday, performers such as A Day to Remember, Macklemore and Ryan Lewis were highlighted on the main stage.

“The music was very good. It was very different from what I expected, but

Photo by Jen Fabiano The enthusiastic crowd surges toward the stage to watch their favorite acts perform.

June 2013 Issue 6

Feature

The Wessex Wire Page 8

Top-notch local ice cream shops to enjoy

by Nicolette Aktas ’14 Warm weather has made its way across the state and ice cream has become the snack of choice, as usual.

This year, though, an increase in ice cream parlors has caused some serious decision making when deciding where to get your sweet treat.

The newest spot in the area, Red Mango, is conveniently located in West Caldwell, across the street from Chipotle. The ideal location should prove succesful with many customers, most of whom who are looking for a healthy way to ease their craving. The “serve

yourself” station is equipped with the option of having smoothies or other delicious creations specially made. One can find different flavors nearly every day, though the classic flavors, including original and chocolate, remain constant.

Because the Jersey Shore is still recovering from Hurricane Sandy, most frequent visitors of the area find Kohr’s, located in the Calandra’s Plaza in Fairfield, to be the perfect retreat. The boardwalk fashioned location provides the best flavors, ranging from soft serve mint chocolate to swirl of vanilla and orange. For the chocolate lovers, each

treat can be dipped into a chocolate shell, for the perfect coating. Pictures of the boardwalk, beach and sunset fill the walls, leaving customers with a sense of summertime fun.

The most unique ice cream spot, located in Upper Montclair, is the Coldstone Creamery, where ice cream is topped according to the customer’s preference, all mixed over a frozen marble block.

The overwhelming variety of options proves that no two orders are ever the same. Junior Mike Mulroe said, “The ice cream cannot be beat. No matter what kind of ice cream or toppings I get, I am always more than satisfied.”

Perhaps the most traditional ice cream spot in the area, Gelotti’s, has the ability

to fulfill any customers’ desires. From Italian ice, soft serve ice cream and gelato, the treats in Caldwell can simply not be beat. Graduation cakes are also available for the season along with mini ice cream cones, which are perfect for any occasion. Aside from the actual ice cream, junior Marissa Cafone said, “The employees are always friendly and always make me feel welcome.”

With the overwhelming amount of ice cream choices in the area, don’t fall for overrated shops. Rely on any of these locations to fulfill cravings for a delicous summer treat.

Photos by Nina Sisco and Sami Silverman

Mirror images: West Essex Knights look alikes

Andrew Garfield & Kyle Talish ’14

Rosario Dawson & Sra. Trinidad

Jenna Fischer & Ms. Cammarano

Photo courtesy of imdb.com, juliastiles317.com, zimbio.com, magweb.com and photos by Jen Fabiano and Helena Voltmer

Julia Stiles & Emma Olsson ’14

June 2013

The Wessex Wire: Feature

Page 9

Talented cellist continues A summer well spent his devotion to music Certain students with service Music doesn’t stop at school

by Helena Voltmer ’14 As a part of four orchestras and symphonies, sophomore Michael Wang spends most of his time performing on the stage in the limelight. An avid cello player, Wang finda a way to balance his challenging school work and hour-long practices for rehearsals and performances.

At the young age of six years old, Wang took his first step toward the cello. His older sister, Lynnli Wang, also played piano and the violin, which inspired him to expand his talent to music.

For the past 10 years he has been taking cello lessons outside of school with his teacher, Ms. Chao.

Wang has been auditioning for the New Jersey Regions Orchestra as well as New Jersey All State Or- chestra for the past four years. He is a member of the New Jersey Youth Symphony Orchestra and the West Essex High School Orchestra under the supervision of Mr. Soares.

“I get to meet the widest variety of people from all over New Jersey, Pennsylvania and New York,” said Wang.

As a musician, he loves being able to incorporate his own style and add a twist to each piece he performs. Wang said, “My favorite piece to play is ‘Concerto No.1’

by Shostakovich for the cello because it is dynamic, dramatic and there are so many different variations of it.”

With the NJ All State Orchestra he performs at New Jersey Performing Arts Center as well as at the annual New Jersey Teachers Convention in Atlantic City.

Wang has also offered his services to the National Honor Society and National English Honor Society inductions. He has performed at Carnegie Hall, New Jersey Performing Arts Center as well as at the W e s t Essex auditorium.

Wa n g has received much encouragement from his parents, Ms. Chao and Mr. Soares to continue practicing and performing. “My parents support me through everything I do and give me the means to do them,” said Wang.

“He is a very mature, musically speaking, for a sophomore, very detail oriented and very demanding of himself for performance,” said Mr. Soares.

Though he does not know what college he wants to attend, he does know that music will be a major part in his education. He hopes to be able to further offer his services of music to charity and fundraisers to give back to West Essex and the surrounding towns. With his giving personality and his incredible arsenal of talents, Wang is destined to be successful throughout his career.

Photo courtesy of Mrs. Blanchard

pursuits worthy of a spotlight

by Nicolette DeVincenzo ’14 There’s a great chance for opportunity when summer rolls around.

With a schedule free from school, students can spend their spare time with friends and family on vacation, staying physically active, or like some exceptional students, spend the time giving back to their community.

Junior Maria Pomponio will spend 225 hours of her summer volunteering at Chilton Hospital in Pequannock, N.J. Through training and shadowing, she will learn the basics of nursing to eventually become certified as an EMT at the end of the rigorous program.

“There’s a test I have to take at the end, a culmination of everything I learned. The program is long but being a doctor, specifically a pediatric neurologist, is what I want to do so I’m really looking forward to the experience,” Pomponio said.

Sophomore Maddie Butler is traveling to Thailand to aid small towns in poverty. Butler became inspired to do this by her friends who had already completed the program and had only great things to say about the

whole experience.

For 31 days Butler will be working with children while teaching them English, building homes and renovating schools. As well as enriching less fortunate communities, she will be able to spend a few days fully appreciating the beauty of the foreign country by working with elephants, scuba diving and touring.

An avid participant in community service, junior Tyler Katz, Lieutenant Governor of Division 18 of the New Jersey District of Key Club International, will be spending about two weeks of his summer volunteering for CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates), a national association that helps “abused, neglected children find safe and permanent homes” according to the CASA website.

After completing his time with CASA and attending camp, Katz will spend a week on Long Beach Island repairing and rebuilding in areas most affected by Hurricane Sandy.

After following a year of unfortunate tragedies and natural disasters, some close to home, it is beneficial to the students and their communities to spend their summers selflessly serving others around them.

June 2013

The Wessex Wire: Feature

Page 10

Division I bound juniors prove their excellence Athletes committing early, getting a jumpstart on college

by Sami Silverman ’14 Though they won’t be graduating until 2014, many West Essex juniors are finding a spot on the field at top notch schools. As many have been playing sports for most of their lives, they have reached their highest achievements by committing to schools early in their high school careers. These athletes will be playing for the 2014 college teams.

Erica Perotta: Perotta began playing lacrosse in third grade and will now be playing for High Point University (High Point, N.C). She made the West Essex varsity team as a freshman.

Throughout the years, Perotta has been working hard to earn a ticket into High Point. “I’ve put a lot of hard work and time into lacrosse and it feels good to be committed and to know I’ll still be playing my favorite sport in college,” Perotta said.

Sofia Haramis: Haramis was recruited to The Ohio State (Columbus, Ohio) field hockey team. Beginning in seventh grade, Haramis knew field hockey was her sport. Being a varsity player for the past three years, Haramis was able to show just how skilled she was when she committed to The Ohio State. She has always played, and will continue to play as a midfielder and a forward. “I’ve been in the U.S-run program called Futures and I’ve made it to one of the highest levels known as Futures elite. The next level is making the Academy, and from there, you can get picked for the national squad and then the Olympics. Obviously, it gets really difficult,” Haramis said.

Jackie Renda: Lehigh University (Bethlehem, Pa) selected Renda to join their field hockey team. Renda

has been playing field hockey since seventh grade, and has made an impact on the field from day one. “Getting recruited is a long process that takes a lot of work, including contacting coaches, playing in far away tournaments and training year round while maintaining good grades. But I’m happy all my hard work has paid off because I’m really ex- cited to play for Lehigh,”

keeping up with the recruiting process,” Pezzuti said. She was captain of the high school team this past fall, and she will remain a captain for her senior year.

Christine Laible: Laible will be playing goalie for the Boston University (Boston, Mass.) lacrosse team. She began lacrosse in third grade and acquired a lik-

Photo courtesy of Katie Photo by Val Panza Minden

Photo by Sami Silverman From left Amanda Uliano, Sofia Haramis, Erica Perrotta, Christine Laible, Jackie Renda, Lexi Perez, Steph Pezzuti and Julian Lorenzen all are division one bound.

Photo by Anna George

Renda said. She plays as a midfielder, Photo ing for it. Her appreciation for the courtesy of Allison showing her prowess in both defendgame grew as she continued to play. “I Freeman Photo by Anna George ing and scoring. Aside from high knew I wanted to play goalie because school field hockey, Renda plays for I played goalie for other sports before many club teams that helped to secure lacrosse.” Laible said. When she was her spot on the college team. a freshman, she made the STEPS club lacrosse team, which is a program to help a competitive player enhance her skills. She plays year round, and practices often in hope of improving her stick work.

Steph Pezzuti: Pezzuti started her field hockey career in eighth grade, and is now going to be on the Duke University (Durham, N.C) team.

She began as a defender, and later switched to a midfielder as the years went by. “It just takes a lot of time.

I’ve missed Thanksgiving since freshman year and my birthday because of tournaments in Arizona and Florida for college showcases.

It’s such a relief now not having to worry about e-mailing colleges and

Lexi Perez: American University (Washington, D.C) offered Perez to be a part of their lacrosse team. She began playing in third grade and now plays low defense for both the West Essex Varsity team and T3 North black travel team. She attributes greatly to the travel team for helping her to get recruited. She also plays for different camps, which is where the American University coach started looking at Perez. “There are play days where I visit the school and play for the coach,” Perez said. She looking forward to joining the team and continue playing lacrosse.

Julian Lorenzen: Ever since nine years old, Lorenzen has been a natural lacrosse player, which eventually led him to be committed to play for Lafayette College (Easton, Pa). He is currently a midfielder for the West Essex varsity team, and contributes to the team greatly. He plays year round for different club teams which helped him get to this point. “One of the coaches told me that I was a unique player that would fit into the program nicely. I’m really excited,” Lorenzen said.

“Julian defiantly deserved it. He is a hard worker and has the right mindset. He will be great at Lafayette,” Coach Glenn said.

Amanda Uliano: Uliano recently accepted the offer to join the Virginia Tech (Blacksburg, Va.) lacrosse team.

“I’ve been working really hard and I’m happy it finally paid off. I’m so excited,” Uliano said. She has been playing lacrosse since she was in 5th grade and has quickly realized she had a natural calling for it. Uliano has been playing for the West Essex varsity team since she was a freshman.

She plays attack and has a great ability to score and fake out the defense.

In the summer, she plays for T3 which helped her get to where she is now.

June 2013

The Wessex Wire: Sports

Page 11

Spring sports player profiles: Steph D’Ascoli and Anthony Tornatore

by Louis Coniglio ’13

final season. The team ultimately fell to Chatham by a score of 9-7 Steph D’Ascoli in the Group 2 semi-final round.

Fairfield native Steph D’Ascoli Nonetheless D’Ascoli had a was a senior attacker on the successful year.The teams’ reWest Essex girls’ Varsity lacord for the season was 18-5 crosse team. She began her and D’Ascoli comlacrosse career in eighth piled an outstanding grade when she quit 63 goals. At the end gymnastics and deof the year she was recided to try somewarded with the Yogi Bera, thing new. “Gym“Best Teammate Award” and nastics was taking has been nominated for all state, up so much time so county and conference awards.

I decided to quit and D’Ascoli’s teammates commend I just tried lacrosse her leadership skills and ability and loved it,” to maintain composure in some of D’Ascoli said. the most pressure filled times.She As a senior, ended her high school lashe would’ve crosse career with a total l i k e d t o l e a d Photo courtesy of Mr.Elfenbein of 130 career goals and t h e t eam to Senior Stephanie D’Ascoli prepares to will go on to play lacrosse win the state shoot an eight meter against Kent Place. at Muhlenberg College championnext year. ship in her

Anthony Tornatore Tornatore said.

Anthony Tornatore is a pitcher The baseball team ended the season for the boys’ Varsity basewith a 14-11 record, largely in ball team. part to the efforts of TorTornatore natore on the pitchers’ is a jumound. He pitched eight nior from total games and helped his Fairfield team defeat tough opponents who began playing including Bloomfield, Montclair, baseball at the age of four.

Livingston and Verona.

An avid Yankee fan, Tornatore “Every win we had this season has grown up around baseball. was a team effort. Nobody The excitement of the game has was winning games by themkept him motivated all these years. selves and its fun to have “Some people say baseball is the whole team contribute,” boring, but every pitch to me Tornatore said. is exciting. Also, my dad Tornatore hopes to bring the and grandpa are my role Knights far into the playmodels. They both are offs next year and idePhoto courtesy of Mr. Kross constantly inspirally he would ing me to get Junior starting pitcher Anthony Tornatore like to win a better and bet- prepares to deliver a pitch from the mound. state champiter because they onship before love the game as much as I do,” he graduates.

Shaw sisters compliment each other on the softball diamond

during season to help lead their team to many victories against their most For the past two years, the West formidable opponents including Essex softball team Livingston, has had the priviMount Saint lege of having a Dominic and sister duo that has Caldwell. Last impacted the team season, Jenny with their incredmade Second ible skill, talent and Te a m A l l chemistry. Jenny Conference, and Kimmy Shaw a n d K i m m y, have been domia freshman at nating the field tothe time, was gether from a very a key part of young age. Jenny, a the Knights junior at West Essex success, as has been a pitcher she helped her for the Knights sister lead the since her freshman team behind year. Her younger the plate. “It’s sister Kimmy, now crazy to see a sophomore, has the connection helped her sister they have. The behind home plate games that as the catcher as Jenny pitchboth look to defeat es Kimmy their opponents. catches, and The Shaw sisters it’s clear that f o r m e d a s p e c i a l Junior Jenny Shaw is ready to take third i t h e l p s b o t h as another batter prepares to hit. bond by playing on of them to have the same teams for their sister right years including both their high school next to them,” junior teammate Kelly and their club team, the U18 Ramapo Cousoulis said.

Rage. “It’s nice to have someone who Kimmy and Jenny both hope to is always on your side and who looks extend their softball careers in colout for your best interest as well as lege, more specifically at Division I her own,” said Jenny Shaw. schools. “I want to continue my career Both girls work extremely hard with softball in college because it is

by Amanda Uliano ’14

Photos courtesy of Mrs. Shaw Sisters Jenny and Kimmy Shaw sit next to each other on the bench, focusing on the game as they cheer on fellow teammates on the field.

the next step and I’ve been working my whole life to make it that far,” Jenny said. Both sisters are extremely dedicated but before they go off to college they hope to see success in high school.

The sisters have set extremely high goals for both themselves and for their team this season. “Our goal this season is to make it to Toms River [for State Finals], and hopefully to win the state tournament,” Kimmy said. Unfortunately, the girls lost to Hanover Park in the semi-final game 1-0.

The sisters have also been successful in their ability to rack up the stats for Head Coach Mondadori. This season, Jenny led her team with a pitching record of 9-10 with 32 hits, 15RBIs, two homeruns and maintaining a bat-

ting average of .471. On the mound, she finished with 138 strikeouts and only 109 hits against. Kimmy ended this season with 25 hits and a batting average of .329, still having one of the top batting averages on the team even though she is only in her sophomore year.

“Both Jenny and Kimmy work extremely hard for our team. I know they are both going to make great leaders next year and help us to an even more successful season,” Coach Mondadori said.

With the encouragement of their family, the Shaw sisters look to continue to feed off of eachother. Especially as Jenny enters her last season as a West Essex Knight they hope to make the best of their last season together.

June 2013 Issue 6

The Wessex Wire Page 12

A successful spring sports season in review Boys’ Tennis

The West Essex boys’ tennis team had a great overall season. Although it was a small group, Coach Albanese and Coach Freda did a fantastic job of improving the teams’ skill level as well as their unity as a program. After big upsets over strong opponents including Seton Hall Prep and Madison, the team was eliminated earlier than they might have hoped from the state tournament by Leonia in the third round.

Nonetheless, the team’s skill is promising for next year’s season.

Photo courtesy of Joe Giuffre

Baseball

The boys baseball team, after beating Newark Central 14-1 in the first round, was then matched up with the number two seed Rutherford. The Knights had fallen behind 4-2 going into the seventh inning when the momentum began to shift. A huge last inning rally was capped off by a two out double by junior left fielder, Kevin Fox, to take the lead 5-4. Two more runs were tacked on to help secure a 7-4 victory. The Knights then went on to the section semi-final where they had to face sixth seeded Garfield. The Knights were defeated by the Boilermakers 4-3. The Knights finished their season at 14-11, seven wins better than their 7-15 mark last season.

By Noah Eagle ’15 Dom Magliaro ’15, Luke Magliaro ’15 and Rose Pezzuti ’15

Track & Field

for pole vault. McDonald jumped This year the boys’ track team won 13 feet and Olszewski 9’6” . Maher the Super Essex Conference Colonial came in second place in javelin by one Division. In the county tournament, inch. In the Group II tournament, MaErik Maher broke his own record for her came in seventh place for javelin. javelin, The big throwing highlight 183’11”. for the StephKnights a n i e at the fiWo l f e r nals was broke D e a n t h e McDonsophoald pole more revaulting cord for 14 feet Photo courtesy of Mrs. Wojtowicz javelin and winthrowing 116 feet. Dean McDon- ning the group title. McDonald conald also impressed in pole vault by tinued his momentum in the Meet of going 13’6” and Emilio DeAngelo Champions when he jumped 14’6” took sixth place in long jump with a and broke the school record while distance of 20’2.5”. Both McDonald becoming seventh in the state. and Olszewski won state sectionals Photo courtesy of Mrs. Wojtowicz

Boys’ Volleyball

This year’s volleyball team ended the regular season 11-11, but looked forward to a successful post season. They lost in the quarterfinals to Montclair 25-22 and 25-18. This year’s team has been led by senior captains Wyatt Kalb, Mike Fogarty and Kelly Keegan.

“It was a good year. It was very positive and we all communicated well,” said Kalb.

Kalb was awarded First Team All Conference, Keegan made Second Team and Fogarty was given Honorable Mention.

Golf

Photo courtesy of Mr. Kross

The boys’ and girls’ golf team finished the regular season with a 9-3 record, which won their division. The golf team also won the SEC Liberty Division Golf Championship. This took place at TPC in Belleville in the pouring rain, though not even that obstacle could stop the Knights. Senior Thomas Haversang, who was also an individual champion, juniors Aron Augustitus, Frank Chiaia and Alison Hale and freshman Jack Ploscowe were key participants and helped propel the golf team to their success this season.

Girls’ Lacrosse

This year’s girls’ lacrosse team had a successful regular season; going 18-5. Key players included senior captains Amanda Cassera, Zoe Elfenbein and Steph D’Ascoli. They led the team to the county championship game, though ultimately losing to Glen Ridge 8-6.

Perhaps the teams greatest victory from the regular season was when they defeated No. 2 in the state, Ridgewood, 13-10.

During the state run, after beating Lakeland in the quarter final of the state tournament, the team went on to lose a strongly fought game to Chatham with a score of 9-7. The team will graduate three but has an upcoming senior class of nine to take over. Of the nine returning juniors four are already committed to D1 schools. From the senior class, D’Ascoli will continue to play next year at Muhlenberg College.

Boys’ Lacrosse

Improving from their record last year, the boys’ lacrosse team went 8-11. They advanced to the second round of the state tournament, where they played Mountain Lakes on May 21, though losing 10-3.

In the county tournament, they went to the quarter finals facing Montclair, but lost 4-3 in overtime after playing a very intense game. Throughout the season, they had very big contributions by the senior captains, Matt Garvey, Carmen Carnevale, Rob Skeels and Mike Drumm.

Junior Matt Thies also helped by scoring 7 goals and 4 assists in the first round game against Lenape Valley. Although they are losing four seniors, a large junior class foreshadows a successful 2014 season.

Photo courtesy of Mrs. Wojtowicz

Photo courtesy of Mr. Elfenbein

Softball

With a regular season record of 10-14, the softball team made a deep run in the county tournament. They went deep into the semi-final county game with Bloomfield, but ended up losing 3-2.

When asked on how the season went overall, Coach Mondadori said, “Obviously we would have loved to win the section, but we gave it a run and have most of the team back for next year.”

They played their first game in the state section on May 21, beating Cliffside Park 8-0. They went on to beat Hackettstown in the quarterfinals, 4-3, winning in walk-off fashion on a double by Jenny Shaw, scoring Kate Jencarelli. They then played against the Group II defending state champions, Hanover Park, losing 1-0.