The Wessex Wire (November 2012)

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 2012

Sandy devastates the Northeast

by Griffin Glenn ’13

Hurricane Sandy hit the Northeast on Oct. 29, 2012, destroying everything in its path, and taking the lives of 110 people, according to the Los Angeles Times.

At its largest, the superstorm was approximately 1,100 miles in diameter, more than twice the size of Hurricane Katrina, and is the largest hurricane to ever form in the Atlantic Ocean. The storm affected the entire country and over 20 million people

lost power in their homes.

“The storm wasn’t as powerful as Katrina, but because it was in such a populated area and the hub of so many industries, the impact was just as destructive,” said Mrs. Blanchard.

Sandy ravaged the Jersey Shore as well as parts of New York City, leaving many people stranded with their homes destroyed. The famous boardwalks and attractions of the Jersey Shore are underwater and completely devastated.

SEE HURRICANE PAGE 6

Photos courtesy of Mrs. Decker

The National Guard arrived in Hoboken after the storm to assist with relief efforts. For more storm coverage, turn to pages 6-7.

Class of 2013 wins Spirit Week for the first time

by Vittoria Contuzzi ’13

West Essex was inhabited with students decked out in camouflage, powder blue, hot pink and white. Spirit Week took place

Day on Thursday and Color Day on Friday.

The senior class won four of the five days, with the freshmen coming in first place on Color Day. The turnout for Color

Mr. Minella judges Tug-of-War between the juniors and sophomores. from Friday, Oct. 5 through Friday, Oct. 12.

It began with West Essex Day on Friday, followed by Professional Sports Day on Tuesday, College Day on Wednesday, ’80s

Inside This Issue:

5

Opinion

Day for the freshman class was 97.6 percent, 95.5 percent for the sophomores, 93.3 percent for the juniors and 95 percent for the seniors. However,

Obama wins second term

the senior class won the overall Spirit Week with a total of 21 points cumulative throughout the week.

Student Council Adviser, Ms. Mondadori, tallied the polls for Spirit Week and at the Pep Rally adding an extra five points for first place, three points for second place, one point for third place and zero points for last place.

“This senior class is always surprising us. Maybe they’re the most improved class,” said Mondadori.

This year’s Spirit Week festivities were the first for Principal Mr. Suda.

Defining moments include the entire school singing the “Star Spangled Banner” when senior Marisa Malanga’s microphone did not work, Mr. Suda showing off his Superman shirt during the Tug-O-War and the junior Dance-Off to “Gangnum Style” per-

6-7

Features

formed by juniors Anderson Wang, Joe Chuzhin, Andrew Tetyevsky, Brit-

Seniors perform a kick line during their Dance-Off routine, which took first place. tany Anderson and Claudia Olszewski.

The senior Dance-Off to “Sandstorm,” performed by seniors Nicholas Soriano, Jack Dubas, Matthew SEE SPIRIT WEEK PAGE 2 Photos by Val Panza and Sami Silverman

Special feature; Hurricane Sandy

November 2012

The Wessex Wire: News

Underclassmen attend multiple bullying assemblies

by Jennifer Fabiano ’14 and Brianna Crummy ’16

Freshmen and sophomores filed into the auditorium on Friday, Oct.5 for an assembly on bullying and harassment. Assistant Principal, Ms. Hoebee, introduced the speaker, Mr. William Deering.

Deering spoke about his personal experience with bullying and wanted “to help students avoid the pain and destruction he went through.”

He began by discussing the stutter that he had growing up, and how peers would mock him. This affected his self confidence in conjunction with his learning disorder and trouble at home. Evidently, Deering turned to food. Weight was a struggle for him, but one day he woke up and decided he was done.

“I finally decided that I had enough

Spirit week FROM PAGE 1

Garvey, Marisa Malanga, Alison McCabe and Gabriella Gagliardi, was also a routine that will be remembered. Teacher and judge Mr. Samuels enjoyed seeing the senior class perform.

“I think that Spirit Week is a way for the students to come together and

of being depressed and lonely all the time,” said Deering.

With that thought in mind, he went out for his high school football team.

His teammates cheered him on, and for the first time, he had friends.

Deering explained that by becoming more involved, it helped him create his first support system which he had never experienced before.

“I decided that I had enough of being depressed and lonely.”- William Deering B y senior year, he had lost a lot of the weight that he had put on and surrounded himself with friends that enjoyed spending time with him.

“The idea of building a team of

Opinion

Page 2

with a group of people that encourage, respect and understand you is very important,” said teacher Ms. Cammarano.

Afterword, the students began exchanging thoughts and reflecting on Deering’s presentation.

Freshman Devon Forte said, “I felt it was a very powerful and encouraging speech because of the way he expressed himself and everything he has been through.”

Additionally, the freshmen attended two assemblies on Wednesday Oct. 17, 2012.

The topics of the presentations included bullying and Internet safety.

Janice Rafalowski, Ph.D from the County College of Morris educated the freshmen class on bullying. Although many students feel that too much time is spent on the subject, this demonstration was different from the others.

“I feel we do too many bullying assemblies, but I got a new view of bullying from

this one,” said freshman Cathryn Kessler.

Rafalowski’s way of connecting to students was by asking questions and having volunteers come to the front and participate in a role-play. The goal was to have the students understand the different forms of bullying.

The second speaker was Detective Joseph Iuliani of the Essex County Prosecutor’s Office. His objective was to communicate the dangers of today’s growing technology and explain how to use it safely. H.I.B. Specialist of West Essex, Mr. Emering, was pleased with Detective Iuliani’s message.

“Students don’t always understand that what they are posting on these social networks is public,” said Mr. Emering.

This was the focus of Mr. Iuliani’s presentation. He wants to make students aware of what they are sharing with the world and to take caution when doing so.

have pride in their school. I thought that each Dance-Off was good but, of course, the seniors had the best routine,” said Samuels.

“This has been the best Spirit Week and Pep Rally we’ve had in all of my four years. I think it was very well organized and each grade had a lot of fun.

It really brings each grade together and hopefully we can have another one in the spring,” said senior Emma Osman.

November 2012 Issue 2

Editorial

In the wake of Hurricane Sandy, residents all along the East Coast have been struggling to regain a sense of normalcy in their daily lives. From fallen trees to power outages that lasted over a week, it has been challenging for many to remain positive and resilient.

In this difficult time, it is important to look outside of the West Essex community and appreciate what we still have. Conditions in New York and even other areas of New Jersey are disastrous, and the focus should be on aiding those in need. Although not having power may be inconvenient, we cannot lose sight of the bigger picture. Each of us has our health, our families and our homes.

While most of our power has been restored, many of our teachers who live outside of our area are still living without light and heat. Some are even still trying to recover from flood damage. It is important that we show sympathy and understanding to our faculty and show them how much we appreciate what they do for us.

The devastation to our region was clearly catastrophic, however, now it is time to be proactive. Each individual has the power to help in some way, whether it be donating clothes and money or simply providing moral support. To make a $10 donation that directly aids victims of Hurricane Sandy, text the Red Cross at 90999.

With homes destroyed, spirits crushed and millions of lives impacted, it is imperative that we all come together to rebuild. It goes with the American spirit to bounce back after such tragic events, and we believe that everyone possesses the power to make a difference.

The Wessex Wire The Official Student Newspaper of West Essex High School A Columbia Scholastic Press Association Silver Medalist Paper

Photo courtesy of Ms. Freeman

Mr. Deering, Ms. Hoebee and Mr. Suda pose for a picture after the bullying assembly. Mr. Deering discussed his experience with the underclassmen.

Club Bytes

Reported by Annie Kluger ’14, Bryan Gallion ’15 and Alec Molesworth ’14

Book Club

The Book Club is a club that has members read and discuss books selected by vote. The club holds fundraisers to purchase copies of the books that they are reading, and will hold a philanthropic fundraiser at some point during the school year. Right now the Book Club recently read “The Fault in Our Stars” by John Green. The next meeting will be held on Nov. 1. “New members are always encouraged to attend at any point in the year,” said club adviser Ms. Macaluso.

Youth and Government

Youth and Government is a club that focuses on debating and discussing politics. Adviser and history teacher, Mr. Rauch, has the club meet regularly to talk about current events and issues that affect high school students and the community. Rauch said, “Really anyone can be a part of this club because everyone has opinions and here, you are welcome to share them.”

FBLA

The Future Business Leaders of America meets twice a month and prepares students for future business ventures. Normally, the club would have been preparing several fundraisers for the month of November.

Hurricane Sandy, however, has delayed their plans. When the power to everyone in the club is restored, the head of FBLA, Ms. Sherman, wants to hold myriad fundraisers for donations. “We have already donated 50 cell phones to the Battered Women’s Shelter,” said Ms. Sherman.

65 West Greenbrook Road, North Caldwell, New Jersey 07006 (973) 228-1200 ext. 258

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

2012-2013 STAFF:

Managing Editor Chloe Butler ‘13

Editors-in-chief Griffin Glenn ’13 Regina Walter ‘13

Advertising Editors Dana Domenick ‘13 Monica Onorata ‘15

Opinion Editors Daria Forte ’13 Gaby Roth ’13

Publicity Editor Amanda Wolfson ‘14

Sports Editors Anthony Bertoldi ‘13 Zoe Elfenbein ‘13 Copy Editors Vittoria Contuzzi ‘13 Nicole Lieb ’14 Adviser Ms. Lo

Contributing Staff David Kosoy ‘13 Marisa Malanga ‘13 Emma Osman ‘13 Jennifer Fabiano ‘14 Anna George ‘14 Jacqueline Gualtieri ‘14 Annie Kluger ‘14 Alec Molesworth ‘14 Steph Pezzuti ‘14 Nina Sisco ‘14 Helena Voltmer ‘14 Bryan Gallion ’15 Brianna Crummy ’16

Wire Editorial Policy The national award winning Wessex Wire is published with supplemental updates to inform, educate and entertain the approximately 1000 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 free expression of ideas and opinions of students, staff and community members. We urge readers to write letters to the editor on pertinent matters of concern. Letters must be signed; however, anonymity will be granted if necessary upon request. Members of the editorial board reserve the right to edit all letters to the editor for length or libelous content.

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

The Wessex Wire Page 3

Intense rivalry gone overboard

by Victoria Agrifolio ’14

Painted bodies, obnoxious chants and unnecessary brawls all surround the growing rivalry between West Essex High School and James Caldwell High School. But when is school spirit and dedication taken too far? A positive rivalry should be done in a tasteful fashion, but the actions of the two student bodies are embarrassing and could potentially ruin the good fun in the rivalry for everyone else.

The tension always rises when it comes to sporting events. Both schools excel in athletics, so regardless of the sport, the game is always a thrilling one. However, tempers flared at the West Essex vs. Caldwell football game on Saturday, Sept. 22. The altercation escalated to the magnitude where the administration and officials were forced to intercede.

“Back in the ’80s, the rivalry between the schools was very intense. There was vandalism and a lot of taunting from each school.

As neighboring towns, the bragging rights were really important. Throughout the ’90s and early 2000s it seemed to really calm down, until recently,” said James Caldwell alumnae, Donna Romano.

The history of the two schools dates back for decades, and for some time, the kids from the neighboring towns were all forced to

attend James Caldwell High School while West Essex was being built. Everyone was tranquil until construction was finished at West Essex.

“When I went to high school, I remember when the Caldwell kids came to our field and burned a giant C in the grass. For retaliation, the West Essex kids went to their school and painted their walls with our school colors. For as long as I can remember, the rivalry has always been intense,” said West Essex alumnus Anthony Pezzuti.

Students now have the notion that the rival school is the ultimate enemy.

“Of course it’s a big deal when we play Caldwell. We’ve got a lot of people coming out to support us and there’s a great deal of pressure to not let those people down.

We’ve been playing those kids since we were seven years old, and the games are highly competitive,” said junior football player Jason Russo.

With the way the course of events have unfolded, people from both schools need to learn how to exhibit school spirit in a positive manner, instead of resorting to this ongoing violence.

“I think it’s a great rivalry, and great for the kids. It’s good for the schools, and definitely school spirit. Sometimes it just gets taken too far,” said Pezzuti.

Does it bother you...?

by David Kosoy ’13

Photo by Val Panza

Does it bother you that class pets aren’t an everyday part of West Essex? The other day while in “Advanced Placement Biology,” I zoned out while staring at a picture of a wolf.

“Wow. They are big. What would I do if there was a wolf David roaming the halls?” I thought.

After imagining countless scenarios that ended with me becoming part of the wolf’s lower intestine rather than getting hairier and more Taylor Lautner-y, I realized that class pets are essential to our safety as West Essex students and faculty.

Sure, Mr. Davis can neutralize a wolf or two, but what if one day the halls look like a Jack London story gone horribly wrong? Bears can be hired as Mr. Davis’ personal assistants. Personally, I’d want a class pet wildebeest named Lassie.

Aside from the obvious safety benefits of a school full of bears, wildebeests and hamsters, class pets help students learn. Pet goldfish, for example, can be used for counting, catch and cooking.

Remember, fish don’t have feelings, and should be treated in such a manner.

Seeing as some students have allergies,

Kosoy pondering what bothers him. class pets can also teach students the virtue of “sucking it up, cupcake.”

Some precautions would certainly have to be taken. I remember my Uncle Mikey’s story of how his pet ferret escaped into the vents and made his apartment smell like the backstage of Barnum & Bailey’s circus.

My mother still teases him for it. To prevent such travesties from occurring, rooms containing any sort of animal that can fit into a vent (including freshmen), should have all the vents, windows, doors and all other means of escaping permanently sealed.

Every time I pass Mr. Suda, I think of how awesome it would be if he had a pet in his office, more specifically, a superdog named Krypto. Although I haven’t yet figured out the logistics of acquiring such a creature, I do feel that the other, more attainable pets listed above should be obtained.

November 2012

Page 4

Instant Twitter fame with instant shame The Wessex Wire: Opinion

Safety over rights

by Molly Dickman ’13

America is said to be the home of the free, a land filled with rights and securities for all who live here. Recently, one of these said rights has been called into question because of the risk it imposes to the safety of the American public at large.

Because of an escalated number of mass shootings, the Second Amendment to the Constitution, the right to bear arms, and the gun control laws that have been set forth to go with it have been scrutinized and debated for being too lenient for a problem that is very serious.

On April 20, 1999, two high school students shot and killed 13 people at Columbine High School in Jefferson County, Colo. It was the fourth deadliest shooting in America’s history and one of the first to be broadcasted on television. Since then, there have been at least 29 major shootings by civilians, including the recent movie theatre shooting during “The Dark Knight Rises” premiere in Aurora, Colo. which resulted in 12 casualties and 58 injuries, according to abcnews.com.

Social Studies teacher Mr. Rauch said, “In light of the events that happened over the summer, I believe it is clear that it is time for this country to have a bigger discussion on the issue. We need to figure out how to protect people’s Second Amend-

ment rights while also protecting the safety of the public.”

The number of people who have been affected by gun violence raises the issue of how to prevent it from happening, but at the same time, not rob citizens of their rights.

Senior Mark Mascera said, “I don’t think they should ban people from the right to purchase guns but they should have more intense background checks and not allow people to buy machine guns.”

There’s the argument that if people are determined enough, they will find a way to purchase a mass amount of ammunition.

Senior Tommy Haversang said, “You can try and outlaw guns all you want, but there’s a black market for illegal weapons.”

Other than making laws stricter, there are many precautions that can be taken to prevent violence from happening. Tighter security in public places, such as an increased number of security personnel and metal detectors, are a few measures that can be taken.

In addition, more in-depth background checks when purchasing guns can help to stop the wrong people from getting their hands on weapons. Stricter rules on how much ammunition and the types of weapons that can be purchased can also aid in building a safer country for everyone.

reliable information has gone viral on Twitter. Just March of last year, Jason Russell, a film-maker and founder of the organization Invisible Children, posted a documentary to YouTube about the Ugandan, Joseph Kony, and his campaign of abduction, rape and enslavement of 30,000 children in Africa. Hashtag “#STOPKony” reached the number one world-wide trending topic on March 6, according to twee.com.

The anti-Kony campaign transcended even the Clark student’s fraud.

As many began to empty their pockets to Invisible Children, investigators began to question whether the association’s quick motives were really well-intended.

A majority of the Twitterverse are youthful, gullible and easily susceptible to believing in events such as the Clark student’s disappearance and donating to an unreliable organization such as Invisible Children.

“With things like [the Clark student’s] disappearance and even the deception of Kony, social media is obviously too powerful. After all it’s in the hands of unreliable people,” said History teacher Mrs. Blanchard.

Applause and Flaws

by Opinion Editors

Applause o To o To o To o To o To o To

Photo courtesy of clker.com

the seniors coming in late after PSATs “Modern Family” this year the senior dance during the Pep Rally the kids posting about the debates on Facebook sushi pizza at Nori the Rolling Stones’ 50th Anniversary Tour

Flaws

Photo courtesy of 123rf.com

o To o To o To o To o To o To

not not the the the the

decorating the school on Color Day getting out of gym if you play a Varsity sport slowness of the new iPhone update NHL lockout tuition of colleges demolition of the Jersey Shore

Page 5

The Wessex Wire: Opinion

Barack Obama wins 2012 Election Electoral Vote Breakdown:

Cartoon by Juan Gomez

awful disaster, and also countless Oct. 2. Many feel personally betrayed rumors. by her. Another Twitter user, with Log on. Sign in. Prepare to be They did find leads through the no personal connection to the Clark overwhelmed with concerned tweets, tweets, however, many were false, student, tweeted, “Raise your hand warning the Twitterverse about the only wasting the detective’s time and if you’ve ever felt personally victimized by most recent “missing persons” case. increasPhoto courtesy of twitter.com i n g Kara.”

Within only minutes, the hashtag Many may become a worldwide trending p r e s s t u topic and breaking news on televi- sure for dents sion. Social media has uncovered a t h o s e proved new aspect in criminal investigation. w h o to be It is unsure yet, whether the involve- w e r e negament of social media in investigations searchtively is beneficial or impairs those trying i n g for the affected to solve the case. by the Most recently, a student from Clark, t e e n . story, beN.J. sparked a controversy over the T h e fore they power of the media. She tweeted from C l a r k found out her phone on Sept. 30, around 6:00 P o l i c e it was a p.m., “Thre is someone in my hour d e p a r t hoax. ecall 911.” Hashtag “#helpfindkara” ment was J u was retweeted more than 34,000 confrontPhoto courtesy of NBC News n i o r times, according to the New York e d b y The Clark student’s tweet spurs pandemonium.

Jenna Times, reaching the third trending t h o u sands S a l topic in the world.

When her parents arrived home that of calls and rush of tweets from luce said, “I couldn’t fall asleep the day, the back door hung wide open around the world, according to the night she went missing. I couldn’t even check my Twitter because every with no trace of her. Police declared New York Times. this as a missing person’s case, rely- Through concrete evidence found tweet had to do with her case.” ing, unusually, on Twitter for leads. beyond the Twitterverse, she was Despite the Clark student, there The tweets spread the news of the spotted at Rahway train station on have been other instances where un-

by Nicolette DeVincenzo ’14

November 2012

303 vs. 206

Barack Obama: the right decision made under the Bush administration.

But since then he has recovered; in The 2012 Presidential Election is the past 30 months President Obama one of the most important in recent has created 4.4 million jobs, accordmemory. While exiting the worst ing to CNN.com. economic situation since the Great There has also been severe criticism Depression, America needs a Presi- against Obama’s Universal Healthdent that can bring the country back care package. Conservatives are adato greatness. I believe that Barack mantly opposed Obama has what it takes to return to the taxes asAmerica to its former glory. sociated with According to his statements such a packmade during the first presidential age. But the debates, Obama intends to gradufact is that ally reduce the deficit, to imthe United prove the education system, to States is increase production of energy of the only the future such as solar and wind western power and change taxes to benefit nation withsmall businesses. His major goal is out universal to strengthen the middle class. healthcare, and “America does best when the one cannot middle class does best,” said reap the Obama at the first presibenPhoto courtesy of whitehouse.gov dential debate. This was efits evident in the economic boom of such a that took place during the Clinton package without taxes to pay for it. administration.

At the Republican National Con President Barack Obama’s plan vention, Mitt Romney poked fun at to gradually bring jobs back has President Obama for promising to worked. He lost 4.3 million jobs in slow the rise of the ocean. Obama the beginning of his presidency, but was vindicated weeks later when this can be attributed to mistakes Hurricane Sandy roared through the

by Griffin Glenn ’13

Democratic platform

by Vittoria Contuzzi ’13 “Balanced plan of spending cuts and revenue increases that reduces the deficit by more than $4 trillion over the next decade.”

“His plan includes $2.50 in spending cuts for every dollar in revenue increases, while bringing annual domestic spending as a share of the economy to its lowest level in 50 years.”

New independent fund that “will attract private dollars and issue loans for new construction projects based on: how badly are they needed, and how much good will they do for the economy.”

northeast, proving that global warming isn’t a problem that can be ignored any longer. Barack Obama has and will continue to invest in newer and cleaner sources in an effort to preserve the planet.

In addition, President Obama has begun to gradually reduce the deficit.

According to the New York Times, when Obama took office in 2009, the deficit was $1.4 trillion; the anticipated deficit for 2012 is $1.1 trillion.

In his second term, he will continue to reduce the deficit and will do so at a more rapid pace.

It is true that Obama’s recovery plan has moved at a slower pace than expected. However, one must have some perspective. The economy was in a state of complete disarray, and one can’t expect a complete recovery in a mere four years. Part of the reason he wasn’t able to completely restore the economy can be attributed to the inability of the polarized Congress to compromise.

President Obama did many positive things while in office. He ended the war in Iraq, he saved the American auto industry, he passed Universal Healthcare and most importantly slowly started to lower the unemployment rate.

W.E. decide: WestWest Essex W.E. decide: Essexstudents students votevote No Opinion Other 4% 6% Undecided 7%

Recruit and prepare 100,000 math and science teachers to out-compete countries in the sciences Lead the world in college graduates by 2020 and cut the growth of college tuition and fees in half over the next decade End to the health insurance company practice of charging women more than men for the same coverage Strengthen Medicare All information featured on barackobama. com

Obama 33%

Romney 50%

Out of 639 total students

November 2012

The Wessex Wire: Special Feature

Page 6

November 2012

The Wessex Wire: Special Feature

Page 7

Natural disaster takes Northeast by surprise: Hurricane Sandy strikes close to home from the hurricane is estimated N.J. devastation age to be 50 billion dollars, according to FROM PAGE 1

“People everywhere lost power and people closer to the beach lost their homes due to flooding. The coast is devastated. It has completely changed the face of the Jersey Shore permanently,” said Sea Girt resident Francis Bogan.

The low lying areas of New York are also in shambles. According to the Los Angeles Times, the death toll in the state of New York is the highest with 48 reported and is expected to continue climbing.

Hurricane Sandy forced New York City to face its biggest crises since the blackout of 2002. The metro-rail and the subways were shut down due to flooding, leaving people unable to get to work. Low lying areas of the city are destroyed and it is unclear how this will affect the people of New York as well as New Jersey economically. As of right now, the dam-

the New York Times.

Another major effect of the storm was a gas shortage. The combination of many gas stations losing power and the need for extra gas to run generators led to gas lines being so long that it was reminiscent of the oil embargo of the 1970s.

The superstorm first reached the United States in Atlantic City, where 12 people were killed and the majority of the city was underwater. A major controversy occurred when Governor Chris Christie blamed Mayor Lorenzo Langford of Atlantic City for not evacuating the city. Langford told members of the community to stay in the city whether it was in their own homes or in shelters set up by him.

“Although Hurricane Sandy was devastating for many, I’m glad we are recovering well and that we are all ok,” said senior class president Javier Chaveste.

N.J. comes together for relief

by Victoria Agrifolio ’14 Hurricane Sandy ripped through

Hurricane Sandy has destructive effects on the West Essex area, Hoboken and Long Branch. The aftermath included damaged power lines, fallen trees, mile-long gas lines and flooded streets. Power outages lasted over a week in some of the local communities.

Photos by Shannon McGlynn, Valerie Panza, Sami Silverman and Helena Voltmer.

Photos courtesy of Mrs. Decker, Dan Silverman and Nina Sisco.

the East Coast on Monday, Oct. 29.

The category one hurricane took the lives of hundreds, and millions were left without power, food and heat.

Others faced massive flooding and were forced to abandon their homes.

As a result, the country has come together to help in any way they can.

The American Red Cross in Fairfield is providing shelter and food for those who have none. Aside from the physical contributions, the organization also has more than 5,000 disaster workers helping those who were hit, and amongst them are mental health volunteers, according to redcross.org.

The volunteers go from neighborhood to neighborhood to help those affected cope with the devastation.

To donate to the Red Cross to aid those devastated by Sandy, visit www.redcross.org, call 1-800-RED CROSS or text the word REDCROSS to 90999 to make a $10 donation.

“It’s so convenient having the Red Cross in Fairfield. It makes it so much easier to become more involved and help out the community in the time of a crisis,” said junior Amanda Masterson.

The Fairfield Fire Department also ran a clothing drive, specifically for winter clothing and bathing products.

All items collected were donated to residents in Toms River, and were delivered on Monday, Nov. 5.

Notre Dame Church located in North Caldwell, is welcoming donations, and everything will be brought to the victims of Hurricane Sandy in Hoboken. Baby wipes, flashlight batteries, diapers, baby formula and blankets will be delivered on Monday to more residents. Any non perishable food items will be brought as well.

“We’re doing everything we can to reach out and help people. Donating money is great, but physically going there and handing out items can mean so much more than just handing someone some money,” said Joy Zucco McDonald, the pastoral associate for the youth ministry.

Governor Chris Christie and his wife, Mary Pat Christie, have set up a Hurricane Sandy New Jersey Relief Fund. People can donate anywhere from $10 to $10,000 or more. The relief fund was organized to “aide, comfort and rebuild New Jersey,” according to sandynjrelieffund.org.

Governor Christie believes that “we are making progress every day. We are getting there, but it was a devastating blow to our state. It’s going to take months if not years in some respects [to rebuild],” according to ryanseacrest.com.

Individuals also are showing their support by simply buying items and passing them out on the streets. Residents of Caldwell are seen giving out cookies to workers as well as victims.

If everyone helps how they can, recovery can happen much faster.

November 2012 Issue 2

Feature

November 2012

The Wessex Wire Page 8

Feature on a great teacher: we wish you the best

by Val Panza ’13

As a teacher and a coach to most

students of West Essex, physical education teacher Mr. Markey said his “see you soon” to the student body on, Sept. 20, 2012. As he told his period eight senior health class that he may not be back for the rest of the semester, students looked back at him already knowing that something was wrong.

Mr. Markey has been battling Primary Sclerosing Cholangitis (PSC), a rare chronic liver disease caused by progressive inflammation and scarring of the bile ducts of the liver.

He was first diagnosed in 2002 when he was wrestling as a sophomore at The College of New Jersey. He was dramatically losing weight and was constantly fatigued.

Mr. Markey has already had multiple surgeries, and had a liver transplant in 2005. Shortly after his transplant, he was back on the operating table after a rupture caused severe internal bleeding. Yet once again, his life was saved and he was given another chance.

“Most people would not survive such a complication but I was lucky,” said Mr. Markey. He is currently on the waiting list for a second transplant. Although this will ultimately elongate his list of surgeries to number seven, it will be a vital necessity.

Mr. Markey was just recently in the hospital getting surgery to remove the virus that is growing in his current liver. He went in to New York Photo courtesy of Mrs. Wojtowicz

Presbyterian Hospital on Sept. 21, and remained under care until Sept.

25. When they re-attached his nerves and muscles back together in his abdomen, doctors removed sick bile duct tissue in his liver and replaced it with healthy tissue from his intestines. Despite the eight and a half hour procedure, he is in the process of getting healthy and putting on the 20 pounds of weight that he had lost from the surgery.

“I still make weekly trips to the hospital to deal with an infected incision and to make sure all is going in the right direction so that someday soon this is all behind me,” said Mr. Markey.

Although his disease seems limiting, Mr. Markey never let PSC stop him from doing what he loves. He still continues to wrestle, play football and maintain a healthy lifestyle.

As he continues to be one of the school’s most well known and favorite teachers, the strongest bonds and relationships are held between his football and wrestling teams.

Senior wrestler Carlo Zazzara, said, “to me personally, Markey’s absence is heart breaking. He is not only a fantastic coach, but a fantastic man.”

Zazzara looks up to Markey as an inspiring figure.

“He is a role model, a second father figure and most importantly a friend.

He has always guided me and taught me important lessons on and off the

mat. Markey once told me ‘no matter how bad it is at this moment, it will all be worth it in the end.’ I believe that when he is fully recovered, he will be stronger and better than ever before,”said Zazzara.

Senior Nour Aly also had a close connection with his football coach.

“Not having him with us right now hurts us as a team. The addition of coach D’Urso is like a blessing and the next best thing “I’m failing gym without you here! to Markey, but there’s no way of Come back!”- Heather Prinzo ’13 replacing a coach. He is close with all of the players and coaches, and is surely loved back. As a family we’re going to play for him because we know he wishes that he can be with us and I know he will be soon,”said Aly. Aly summed up his thoughts and spoke for his team as a whole when he said “we all wish him the best.”

A fellow coworker and companion of “I can’t wait for this season to start, Mr. Markey is teacher Ms. Cosse. She coach.”- Mike Marrotti ’13 has known Mr. Markey for years and they were both graduates at TCNJ. “Mike is one of my best friends in the department for sure. If anything, he has truthfully maintained a very professional attitude about his teaching and has always given the best to his students despite facing really tough medical issues,” said Ms. Cosse.

Mr. Markey’s leave is hardhitting on many of the students and faculty at West Essex. We hope “I miss not having anyone to pull that he returns soon, healthier and pranks on!”- Bryanna Sataromita ’13 stronger than ever.

“Eighth period gym misses you!”Genna Salvatoriello ’13

Mr. Markey pumps up his Varsity players before a game against West Orange on Sept. 14

Photos by Val Panza and Sami Silverman

Wessex Wire: Feature

Page 9

Sam’s LemonAid Stand: Giving from the heart

Nine-year-old fundraises for heart transplants

by Sam Gilbert ’13

While most kids dream of playing professional sports or travelling to the moon, North Caldwell resident Sam Prince simply wanted to run a lemonade stand.

In September, nine-year-old Sam Prince, a recipient of a heart transplant, ran a lemonade stand outside of My Daughter’s Closet on Brookside Ave. in Caldwell.

“Sam’s Lemonaid Stand” raised over $900 for organ donation recipients, and raised awareness of the life-changing effects. Some of the money is being used for research at Columbia Presbyterian Hospital, where he received his transplant, but the majority has been used to purchase essentials that the kids waiting for hearts need while they are in the hospital to make their wait a little better.

Sam was born with many compli-

cations, including coming sports, swimming and riding plex congenital heart a bike. He could not even perform and lung defects. As the simple act of walking up stairs e h y, b a a b without getting out of breath. endured two Finally, when options became open heart limited for Sam, he was put on the surgeries in l i s t for a heart waiting order to altransplant. In heart his low the “winter of 2011”, to work to Sam finally received the best of its a blessing; a ability. The new heart and first seva new life. d n a en “Sam had ala half ways wanted years of to have a S a m ’s lemonade Photo life was stand, but

by Sam Gilbert d e k r ma w a s never healthy enough to do inby his s a i d Debbie Prince, so,” ability to do Sam’s mom. common t a s k s , With Sam’s new heart, he can s u c h as atfinally attend a full school day, take g n i d n t e part in recess, make friends school, play- Sam and his stand and go to birthday parties. He is

learning to swim, ride a bike and play basketball.

“He works hard to keep his new heart healthy,” said Debbie. With frequent visits to the hospital and lots of medicine, Sam is able to stay healthy and use his own experiences to raise awareness of others.

Sam’s positive outlook has served as inspiration for many others as well. “He motivates me to volunteer more and help others in need,” said senior Rachel Lazarovitch, who has been a family friend of the Princes for years. “He has inspired all of us to become better people.”

“I want the sick kids waiting for new hearts to feel good like I do,” said Sam. He plans on continuing his efforts with more “LemonAid” stands. With the immense courage and full, giving heart Sam possesses, nothing is impossible for the nine-year-old now.

Masquers present “Our Town” Recipe corner: Pumpkin spice latte cupcake A small town drama on the big stage

by Jacqueline Gualtieri ’14

tor,” said Contaldi. “We all had to The time is near for the fall play focus on pantomiming. The entire and you may want to have your cast worked really well together tissues handy. “Our Town,” a and that can definitely be seen play by Thornton Wilder, follows in the show. We play off of each the love of the two childhood other’s actions and make it look friends, George Gibbs, played by very real.”

Greg Contaldi, and Emily Webb, Seasoned veterans to the Masquers stage, Jon Hiplayed by Alyssa laire and Marissa Szarka.

Malanga will be Following the the assistant dilives of citizens rectors to Christa of the small Sorrentino for the town, Grover ’s production. EvCorners, New ery member of Hampshire, the the cast is makplay starts in ing their return to 1901, when the the stage, such as lovers are just Mark Mascera as school friends Dr. Gibbs, Joey and continues to LaVarco as Mr. 1913, when EmGraphic courtesy of John Zapparrata Webb, Meg Doelp ily has gone into as Mrs. Gibbs and labor at a great and terrible cost. The town itself Taylor Pierce as Mrs. Webb. may be common, but the play is “Our Town” hits the stage at not. In order to focus on the town’s 7:30 p.m. on Nov. 17 and closes simplicity, there are little to no on Nov. 18 at 7:30. Tickets are $10 and can be pre-ordered on the props being used.

“The cast is great, as is the direc- school website.

by Marisa Malanga ’13 Cupcakes have been all the rage lately, and in Autumn, pumpkin spice lattes seem to be people’s first choice when walking into Starbucks. Here’s a twist on one of the most popular lattes this season!

Prep Time: 10 Minutes Cooking Time: 20 minutes (makes 24 cupcakes) Ingredients: 1 Package (16.5 ounce) White Cake Mix 1 Can (15 ounces) Pumpkin 1 tsp. Cinnamon 2 tsp. Pumpkin Pie Spice (divided) 1 tsp. Vanilla Extract

the water.

3.Stir cinnamon, 1 teaspoon. pumpkin pie spice and vanilla extract into the white cake mix. Spoon batter evenly into prepared muffin tins.

4.Bake for 20 minutes or until toothpick inserted into middle of cupcake comes out clean. Let cool completely.

5.While muffins are cooling, using an electric mixer, beat heavy cream, confectioners sugar, instant espresso and remaining 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice.

6.Frost cupcakes and sprinkle if desired with cinnamon and pumpkin pie spice.

7. Enjoy!

Frosting: 1 ½ cups Heavy Cream ¼ cup Confectioners Sugar 1 tbl. Instant Espresso Directions: 1.Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Line two 12-cup muffin tins with paper liners.

2.Prepare the cake mix as directed substituting the canned pumpkin for

Photo courtesy of Marisa Malanga

November 2012 Issue 2

&

November 2012

Arts

The Wessex Wire Page 10

Culture

by Zoe Elfenbein ’13

Despite being accused of having antiquated effects and out-dated soundtracks, old scary movies are still compelling and suspenseful.

They keep the audience on the edge of their seats, whereas more recent scary movies are only considered “scary” because of their tasteless, unnecessary use of violence and gore.

“Silence of the Lambs” came out in the early ’90s and was immediately recognized for its gripping storyline and disturbing characters.

This movie changed the meaning of scary for me and I highly recommend ordering it on Netflix.

The movie follows a detective as she searches for an unidentified serial killer, Buffalo Bill. When a U.S. senator’s daughter goes missing, all signs lead to this psychologically deranged killer who is infamous for skinning his victims.

Buffalo Bill leaves some traces, but with no correlation to one another, making it impossible to track down the mass-murderer. In order to find Buffalo Bill, detective Clarice Starling (Jodie Foster) seeks help from a former psychiatrist-turned-serial killer Hannibal Lecter (Anthony Hopkins), currently in a jail for the clinically insane. But Lecter is not your ordinary serial killer; Lecter is a cannablistic serial killer.

Lecter gives Starling insight on

the working mind of a serial killer, but soon he becomes obsessed with Starling. Taking the risk of sharing her personal life with a jailed murderer, Starling forms a rapport with Lecter that allows her to narrow in on Buffalo Bill, however unbeknownst to Starling, their relationship puts the rest of the world in danger.

At times, I watched the movie through the cracks of my fingers covering my face. Especially disturbing scenes include Buffalo Bill luring his victim into his car as well as a close-up view of the mangled corpse of one of his previous victims.

Despite some of the unsettling scenes, “Silence of the Lambs” had a sort of resonating effect that not only compelled me to sleep with the lights on that night, but also showed me that old movies can definitely be entertaining and exhilarating.

It was almost refreshing to find a scary movie that did not feature families being invaded by uninvited demons, like in “Paranormal Activity,” or high-schoolers being killed off in the most absurd ways possible in the “Final Destination” series.

Other chilling classics include “The Shining” and “Carrie,” both adapted from Stephen King novels.

The unsettling suspense throughout these storylines takes precedence over the poorly written and cinematographed movies today that are categorized as “horror.”

Photo courtesy of imdb.com

Years after its premiere, “Silence of the Lambs” continues to terrify viewers everywhere with its spine-chilling storyline and captivating plot.

Photo by Daria Forte

Guitarist Wyatt Kalb and drummer Vincent Dente of Nuclear Society rock out together at band practice in “The Barn” in Roseland, N.J.

Spotlight on Nuclear Society

by Daria Forte ’13 As the years go by, the widespread trend of bands forming during high school years seems to be escalating. Bands from West Essex, such as electronic group Cash Cash and the metalcore Forbidden Territory, are gaining popularity. A new band is on the rise to success and hopes to follow in the footsteps of these previous West Essex groups.

Nuclear Society, a nu metal band, similar to Linkin Park, combinesmetal, hip hop and funk. The band consists of senior Wyatt Kalb on guitar and senior Vincent Dente on drums. They started the band during their freshman year, when they both discovered each other’s talents.

“In eighth grade, I found out that Vin could play the drums, and I was just learning the guitar. I started going over his house and we began to play together,” said Kalb.

Dente started playing the drums at the age of 11. He learned from his dad, who was a drummer for the band The Kootz. As for Kalb, he wanted to learn how to play the guitar ever since the video game “Guitar Hero” was released.

For the past three years, they have come together every “classical Sunday,” as they like to refer to it, at “the barn” to play, write and practice their music. “The Barn,” also known as Dente’s garage, resides in Roseland. “[The band] lets us truly express ourselves. We can express our feelings in a different way through

“Here Come” your newest guilty pleasures

“Extreme Couponing” caused a lot of commotion after its premiere in 2010. A With shows like “Jersey Shore” and consumer’s trip to the grocery store is “The Real Housewives” taking over TV documented as they buy, for example, in recent years, “guilty pleasures” have 800 dollars worth of groceries and pay become so popular that networks con- only 10 cents for their items. These stantly have to come up with ideas for experts come in with an armful of counew series, having to out-do one from pons, organized by date, color and size, the next. TLC is the premiere network having already spent hours calculating hosting such foolish practices. multiple transactions.

After a decent start with shows like This often entails dragging the five“Say Yes to the Dress” and “Cake year old twins along for the ride so they Boss,” the producers have taken a sharp can take 72 deodorants and 98 packleft with their most recent additions. ages of hot dogs to a separate register.

Of course all hard-working Ameri- Real drama erupts when a single “one cans love to come home and sit down dollar off” coupon does not ring up at to watch someone who compulsively checkout, provoking a mental breakeats toilet paper, collects road down from kill or sniffs gasoline, the shopso “My Strange p e r. N o Addiction” is worries the fathough, vorite the managshow to er is called watch over and after the dollar is a long subtracted. d a y .

For those who don’t Photo courtesy of sharetv.org “Breaking Amish,” eat inedible objects or which premiered on Sept. 9, follows inhale toxic fumes, at least the show four Amish people and one Mennonite will help you feel a little better about as they make a huge transition moving yourself and your habits. to New York City. They completely step

by Geena Martorana ’14

Holding on to the horror

songs,” said Dente.

They currently have an album in which they wrote 10 songs, including “March of the Outcasts,” “Start of the End” and “Spiraling.” “‘March of the Outcasts’ is just a typical metal song, while ‘Start of the End’ and ‘Spiraling’ were based off of experiences and hardships we’ve had in the past,” said Kalb.

The band also likes to cover songs to help them practice and learn different notes and sounds to incorporate in their music. Their musical influences include System of a Down, Mudvayne, Metallica and AC/DC. “They make the instruments do the talking while they work on the rocking,” said senior Anthony Longo.

Picking their band’s name was a challenge within itself. They considered Discrete, Seal the Lips and Live Evil before ending up with Nuclear Society because, according to Dente, “it sounded cool.”

The two Nuclear Society members are currently looking for a bass player and a vocalist. They recently made a Facebook fan page for anyone that is interested in joining the band or simply wants to give their music a quick listen.

While they hope to gain more success and admiration as well as earn a shot at creating and performing music for a living, they won’t be discouraged if it doesn’t happen.

“Music is half my life and even if we don’t make it big, we can still play for fun or locally,” said Kalb.

Page 11

The Wessex Wire: Arts & Culture

out of their comfort zones by learning to use electricity and technology such as cell phones for the first time. They also experience manicures and pedicures, tattoos, makeup and trendy clothes they could never wear back home.

Ultimately, by the end of the series, they have to decide whether they want to remain

in the nearby river that is known to be infested with flesh-eating bacteria.

Their daily routines are also examined back home, where females in the family typically wash their hair in the kitchen sink and eat food off of the floor.

According to tvbythenumbers.com, the ratings continue to increase exponentially after the series premiere got 2.25 million Amish or viewers. People keep tuning in to Mennonite or become “English” and be further watch, despite shunned by their families. the negative connotation TLC’s most popular hit yet, “Here Comes Honey attached to the Boo Boo” has definitely show’s title. shown just how out “I don’t necrageous reality Photo courtesy of thehollywoodgossip.com essarily like the television has show, but I just become. It all started with “Toddlers can’t stop watching it. The family and Tiaras,” but now six-year-old Ala- seems to be stricken with poverty, yet na, her mother June, father Sugar Bear there is a lot of love. They seem so hapand sisters “Pumpkin,” “Chubbs” and py. That’s the most important thing,” said Italian teacher Ms. Bazzarelli.

“Chickadee” have their own spin-off.

In the pilot of the series, the Thomp- Based on TLC’s ratings, these ridicuson family participates in The Redneck lous shows will continue to be successGames in South Georgia, doing mud ful come 2013 if Americans are having belly flops and bobbing for raw pig feet. a bad day and need to be reassured of Contestants then take a refreshing dip their sanity. A little TLC from TLC.

Bring back the old, get rid of the boring Television shows that should be played more often while others need to end

by Sam DiGrande ’13

“Gossip Girl”

Photo courtesy of nydailynews.com

“Gossip Girl” is one of those unforgettable shows Photo courtesy of zap2it.com that drags you in and refuses to release its hold until the very last moments of the very last episode. Unfortunately for the fans, that moment is now upon us. The sixth and final season of Gossip Girl started Oct. 8. With 12 episodes scheduled, it’s sure to be a short and explosive season. Will Blair Waldorf (Leighton Meester) finally get her happily ever after with Chuck (Ed Westwick)? Will Lily (Kelly Rutherford) and Rufus (Matthew Settle) get back together? Is Vanessa (Jessica Szohr) coming back? I expect all these questions and more to be answered “One Tree Hill” “American Idol” by the end of this season, and when this addictive When the show started back in 2002, it immediately series finally does come to a close, I hope to see “American Idol” is currently in its 12th season even received great reviews. This provocative and entertaining the reruns on television often. though it should have ended five years ago. In the beginTV show lasted for an unprecedented nine seasons, the ning the auditions were funny and getting to vote for your last episode of which aired on April 4. I immediately fell favorites made the show interactive and amusing. Now, it’s in love with the show seeing Chad Michael Murray on the the same show with different singers and I’m bored. They cast list. When two of the main five protagonists, Lucas tried to make the show exciting by adding the “save” feature Scott (Chad Michael Murray) and Peyton Sawyer (Hilarie which allows the judges to save one competitor that was Burton) declined to return for the seventh season in 2009, voted off by America. Too bad that still doesn’t liven it up. many thought their favorite show would never be the same.

The tell-tale sign that this show has reached and surpassed its However, the show replaced these two characters with climax is the fact that now all three of the original judges are Clay Evans (Robert Buckley) and Quinn James (Shantel no more. In fact, “American Idol” has become so desperate VanSanten). Now that the show has finally come to a close, to stay afloat in the industry that they hired Mariah Carey, all I want is more. There should be more “One Tree Hill” Nicki Minaj and Keith Urban to replace the old judges. reruns on television so that when I’m feeling nostalgic, I End “American Idol,” and you put an end to thousands of Photo courtesy of ebay.com can watch it with no trouble.

Americans suffering from a boring television show.

November 2012 Issue 2

The Wessex Wire Page 12

Soccer comes to close The champions’ corner and junior Drew Kessler were counted on to add timely goals and provide a stable The Varsity boys’ soccer team strug- defense while Dubas and Gencarelli looked gled their way through the season and to lead the team by example and produce came up short in the state playoffs. The on the field as well. team, with a final record of 2-15-1, had On Thursday, Oct. 11, West Essex deall the pieces it needed for a sucfeated Montclair by a score of 1-0. The cessful season yet they couldn’t Knights put on an impressive defensive seem to pull out many victories. show lead by goaltender Nick Soriano.

However, on Saturday, Sept.

Soriano made 16 saves and junior Alex 29, the team was able to come Torres scored the lone goal assisted by together and defeat their opPezzuti as the Knights upset Montclair ponent, Irvington. Senior in an impressive fashion.

Captain Nick Gencarelli put “It was definitely a struggle this year but home the game-winning we were playing some really good teams goal assisted by senior because we are in such a hard division,” Captain Jack Dubas late said Gencarelli. in the match to secure the Due to West Essex’s tough schedule Knights’ first victory of the and the new system of “power season. Senior Stephen Picpoints,” they were able to make the cininni scored the first goal o f state playoffs and play the game for the Knights and their first game at Hackettsenior goalie Nick Soriano stown. The harder the opponent, made some outstanding the more “power points” you receive saves along with exceptional regardless of the outcome of the game. defensive help as they defeated Ir- The team racked up “power points” by Photo by Sami Silverman vington 2-1. playing MKA. Although “We were really Senior Captain Jack Dubas dribbles the ball. they lost 2-0, they looking to build on still received points our first victory in hope of having a strong for playing a close game against a powerplayoff run in the state tournament at the house private school team. end of the season, but unfortunately it just In the first round of the state tournament, wasn’t meant to be,” said Gencarelli.

West Essex was defeated by Hackettstown Tough games against top teams such as 2-1. Dubas scored the only goal for the Montclair Kimberley Academy, Montclair, Knights in their final game of the season.

Millburn and West Orange proved to be Seniors Dubas, Gencarelli, Soriano, Picobstacles in the Knights’ journey to a win- cininni, Rosen, Michael Costa, Javier ning season.

Chaveste, Robert DeLuca and Liam Gantz Key players such as Piccininni, senior have completed their final soccer season for Jeremy Rosen, sophomore Chris Pezzuti the West Essex Knights.

by Louis Coniglio ’13

by Anna George ’14 and Steph Pezzuti ’14

Girls’ Field Hockey The girls’ field hockey team has won their second consecutive Essex County Tournament final. Prior to Junior Kaitlyn Struss finishing the game with three goals, sophomore Alyssa Menendez accompanied to the win with one goal.

With the exception of 2005 and 2010 the team has won the ECT every year since 1997. The field hockey team is currently third in the state, eighth in country and with a record of 17-1. Beginning their state run on Tuesday, the team defeated Wallkill Valley, ranked number 6, 8-0. On Monday they will play Parsippany for their semi final game of their Group 2 Section 2 title.

Marching Band After a two day Tournament of the Bands “Champion Weekend,” the West Essex Marching Knights walked away with a record high score of 92.35.

The Knights triumphed over 20 other schools. Drum Major John Hilaire said that it was a “great show, everyone was very happy.” They then went onto capture 4th place at the Atlantic Coast Championships at Hershey Park. They received a score of 94.5 which was another school record. The woodwinds placed 3rd overall. The band is looking forward to their upcoming tournament US Bands Nationals.

Profiles: Standout seniors

by Chloe Butler ’13

Nick Soriano Although the boys’ Varsity soccer team had a challenging season, ending with a record of 2-15-1, senior goalie Nick Soriano helped the team stay afloat. He has saved over a hundred potential goals over the course of 18 games.

T h e start of the season brought changes for Soriano and the team as a whole. “ T h i s preseason was definitely d i ff i c u l t a n d C o a c h Grasso had high expectations for me and the team from the start,” said Soriano.

Soriano was f e a tured in the Star L e d Photo courtesy of ger as a p layer Mr. Rosen t o watch.

He is competed amongst some of the best goalies in the state and this recognition is a huge honor.

Soriano is the starting goalie for the Varsity team and has played for West Essex since his freshman year, but soccer has been a part of Soriano’s life since he was five.

“He may be short but when he is in net he’s 6’2”. He is one of the best goalies in the county,” said teammate and captain Jack Dubas.

Emma Osman The girls’ Varsity tennis team had a great season, 13-4, with the help of senior Emma Osman. Emma has been playing tennis since the age of eight has been on the Varsity team for three years now. She recently played first doubles in the county tournament against Livingston, a big match for her team.

The team won Group 2 of the state tournament, with a win over Madison. This is the third year in a row the team has won.

“I knew the t e a m had a great chance o f w i n ning state sectionals again for Group 2 and that Photo courtesy of w a s m y g o a l as well Emma Osman as the t e a m ’s goal,” said Osman. She is a dedicated team member and always puts the team first.

Osman has had a close relationship to her coach Mrs. Bruchac. “Ms. Bruchac has been a great coach and she always works us hard to prepare us for anything,” said Osman. She has enjoyed playing for her these past three years and will miss the team greatly when she graduates.