February 2014 - Lyndhurst Schools

A VALENTINE’S DAY TO
REMEMBER
Faculty and students
share their dream dates.|5
BOWLERS STRIKE HARD
As the season rolls on,
the bowling team looks
to continue its success. |11
PRETTY AND POLISHED
Are fabulous nails worth
the hassle?|6
TheLighthouse
Vol. XXVII, No. 4
Lyndhurst High School
February 2014
Super Bowl XLVIII makes history
Lincoln School
welcomes Mr. Rizzo
By Sean McChesney
By Nicholas Pacheco
Wherever he was, whether in front of a classroom
teaching a math lesson or in the dugout coaching a
baseball game, Mr. Rizzo brought his fighting Irish
enthusiasm and ambition to help Lyndhurst students and athletes excel.
Last year, Rizzo turned in his glove and textbook
for a new role in Lyndhurst education. He now
serves as principal of Lincoln School, one of three
upper elementary schools in the district.
Because of his new administrative position, he had
to give up coaching.
Freshman Bowler Ryan Donohue, known for bowling a 300 as a first-year team member, among other
accomplishments, said he would have loved to have
his former math teacher as his bowling coach.
“I just feel he has a lot of bowling knowledge, which
included reading the lane and telling us how and
where to throw,” Donohue said.
Varsity Bowler Junior Richard Sawires played under Rizzo’s leadership in previous seasons.
“Being coached by Mr. Rizzo was great. He always
helped when we were down about ourselves,” Sawires said.
Sawires said Rizzo never gave up on the team no
matter what challenges they encountered.
Rizzo has been a part of the Lyndhurst community for most of his life. He is a graduate of Jefferson
School and LHS. As an educator, he has worked at
Jefferson, Lincoln and Roosevelt Schools. He was
also an eighth grade advisor as well as a yearbook advisor. Rizzo has served as assistant coach and freshman coach of the volleyball team, assistant coach
of the baseball team and head coach of the bowling
team.
Other positions he held include volunteer t-ball
coach, flag football coach and president of the recreation basketball league for ten of the last 13 years.
continued on page 10
Courtesy of Nicholas Pacheco
Mr. Rizzo is the principal of Lincoln School, which is one
of three upper elementary schools in the district. Last
year, he taught math at Jefferson School.
There are a lot of things LHS students are not used
to seeing in February, one of which is a football game
at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford.
On Feb. 2, MetLife Stadium experienced its biggest
event to date, the National Football League’s Super
Bowl XLVIII. For the first time in NFL history, the
national sporting event was played in an outdoor stadium located in a region with a cold climate. It was
also the first Super Bowl ever played in New Jersey.
Senior Matt Lemke attended Super Bowl XLVIII and
described the atmosphere inside the stadium as electrifying.
“It was a once in a lifetime experience that I will
never forget,” Lemke said.
Over 82,000 people piled into MetLife Stadium to
witness the American Football Conference Champion Denver Broncos take on the National Football
Conference Champion Seattle Seahawks. The Broncos
reached the Super Bowl by defeating the San Diego
Chargers in the AFC Divisional round and the New
England Patriots in the AFC Championship round.
The Seahawks made it to the Super Bowl by defeating
the New Orleans Saints in the NFC Divisional round
and the San Francisco 49ers in the NFC Championship round.
Even before the opening kickoff, the Broncos and
Seahawks had already made Super Bowl history. For
the first time since Super Bowl XLIV in 2010, the #1
seed from both the AFC and NFC faced off in the Super Bowl and the Seahawks were the first team since
the Buffalo Bills in 1990 to have no players with Super
Bowl experience, according to the NFL Network.
The Broncos came in with the #1 scoring offense in
the NFL and the Seahawks came in with the #1 scoring defense in the NFL. This has not happened since
Super Bowl XXV in 1990, which featured the Bills and
the New York Giants, according to milehighreport.
com, a website dedicated to the Broncos.
The temperature at kickoff was 49 degrees, ten degrees warmer than Super Bowl VI which still holds
the record for the coldest Super Bowl in history.
The Seahawks won the coin toss but elected to give
the Broncos the ball first, which meant that viewers
saw the #1 offense versus the #1 defense right away.
Twelve seconds into the game, missed communication from the Broncos offensive line and Quarterback
Peyton Manning caused a missed snap and a safety in
the Broncos’ end zone to give the Seahawks an early
2-0 lead. This was the quickest scoring play in the history of the Super Bowl, according to NFL.com.
After that, the situation went from bad to worse for
the Broncos. Manning threw for 280 yards and threw
a touchdown to wide receiver Demaryius Thomas,
who set the record for most receptions in a Super
Bowl with 13. However, it was not enough to stop the
“legion of boom” Seahawks defense.
Manning was intercepted twice, once by Strong
Safety Kam Chancellor and the other by Super Bowl
Most Valuable Player Linebacker Malcolm Smith,
who returned an interception 69 yards for a touchdown. Smith also had nine tackles and a fumble recovery. He is only the third linebacker in Super Bowl
history to win the MVP award. Twelve seconds into
the second half, Kick Returner/Wide Receiver Percy
Check out “The Lighthouse” on the LHS website!
Courtesy of Matt DeMarco
The Seattle Seahawks stole the spotlight at Super Bowl
XLVIII, winning 43-8 against the Denver Broncos on
Feb. 2 at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford.
Harvin returned a kickoff 87 yards for a touchdown.
Quarterback Russell Wilson threw for 206 yards and
threw two touchdowns, one to Wide Receiver Doug
Baldwin and the other to Wide Receiver Jermaine Kearse. Seahawks Running Back Marshawn Lynch also
rushed for a touchdown.
At the end, the Seahawks proved that defense is better than offense, defeating the Broncos 43-8 to win
Super Bowl XLVIII.
“The Seahawks had an amazing year. They worked
hard and became the top team in the NFC and made
it to the Super Bowl. They truly did earn a spot in the
Super Bowl,” Senior Frank Rago said.
The Broncos now hold the record for most Super
Bowl losses in history with five.
“It was great seeing the Broncos in the Super Bowl
despite the outcome of the game. Even though they
lost, I was proud of the season that the Broncos had
and they gave it their all despite coming up a little bit
short,” Giaquinto said.
After the game was over, the Vince Lombardi Trophy was brought out to the field and presented to the
Seahawks for the first time in the team’s history.
“The Super Bowl was everything I expected because
having it in MetLife Stadium doesn’t make it any different from having it in a popular city. The fans were
just as loud, maybe even louder, and just as excited
as any other fans,” said Sophomore Christina Vargas.
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February 2014
TheLighthouse
Question: What songs would be on the soundtrack to your life?
COLUMN
COLUMN
What would
Newman do?
What would
Tuero do?
Compiled by Bianca Fata
“Hells Bells” by AC/DC.... In a previous column, I wrote about how I
was lucky enough to be on the Bergen
Catholic High School football team in
1998 when we were #12 in the country
and played St. Joe’s of Montvale, who
was #8 in the country. The game was
played at Giants Stadium, and in those
days, Giants Stadium had a “bubble”
practice facility.
Before our game, we warmed up and
stretched in this small field area in incredibly close proximity to St. Joe’s. As
they finished their stretch, it was extremely quiet. Then, they shouted out
their jumping jacks at the end of their
stretch, which was loud, but our senior
captains were smiling and said, “Just a
lot of loud noise.”
In about 20 minutes, St. Joe’s took
the field first, while we waited in the
tunnel. They came out to their fans
cheering, nothing else.
Then, as we waited to take the field,
somehow, some way, our entrance
song, “Hells Bells” by AC/DC came
over the PA system. It took us by surprise when we heard that very first
“bong” of the church bell in the song.
To say we were electrified is an understatement. I still get charged up when
I think about it!
This soundtrack does not exist without that song and the memories of
taking the football field to the noise
of 16,000 fans going ballistic as we ran
out of that dark tunnel onto the field
of our dreams!
“Otis” by Jay-Z and Kanye West….
Compiled by Bianca Fata
Courtesy of Bianca Fata
As the PA announcer for the football
games here, I started playing this song
before our LHS games this past fall
after tons of players and cheerleaders
were asking for more energetic hip hop
music. This song came to mind because
Robinson Cano, formerly of the Yankees, used it when he was coming up
at bat and my friends would always get
charged up when it would come on.
While this song has plenty of energy and gets people pumped up at
football games, it also reminds me of
all those crazy times in life when you
just have to throw caution to the wind
and live your life like there’s no tomorrow. Don’t know if I can afford to play
golf in Miami for a week? Ah well, I
can cover it... eventually! Should I go
to Southern California during winter
break. Um gee, do I have the money for
that? Wait, not really? Well, it’s not a
“NO,” so let’s go!
“Ain’t No Love (In The Heart of The
City)” by Bobby “Blue” Bland.... Without going into too much detail (and
therapy), this song is for all those times
of heartbreak; for all those long walks
home after one of the plenty of “psycho
she-devils” that I’ve dated ripped my
heart from my chest “Indiana Jones
and the Temple of Doom” style! I’ve
had a great life, but it hasn’t been all
“lollipops and rainbows.” If you want
that, go listen to the soundtrack of the
“My Little Pony” animated movie.
continued on page 10
If I were to choose three songs to be
the soundtrack of my life, they would
be “Titanium” by David Guetta, “Finally found the Love of a Lifetime”
by Lifehouse and “Amazing” by Bruno
Mars.
Ever since I was a child, people have
been telling me that I am not good
enough, I am too “fat,” I am not smart
enough, etc. No one believed that I
could play football because I was too
big in grammar school. Very few peo-
For every single person who
fired bullets at me, I just became
stronger and more ‘bulletproof.’
ple believed I would get in to college,
let alone graduate. Very few people
thought I would make a college football team, let alone receive a starting
position for three out of four years.
Very few people believed that I would
get my teaching job. The list goes on an
on.
All I ever heard was people trying to
shoot me down. However, I didn’t fall.
For every single person who fired bullets at me, I just became stronger and
more “bulletproof.” That is why “Titanium” perfectly describes my life. I
Courtesy of Bianca Fata
achieved all of those goals, and I am
still continuing to strive to reach all of
my dreams.
I believe in never settling. There’s always room to get better, and the goal is
to get better every single day. A phrase
I like to use is “Eat Crumbs, and stay
hungry.”
I started dating my wife, Koriann, in
2001 and it was a love like nothing I
ever dreamed of. She has always been
my biggest fan, my support, my best
friend.
“I Finally Found the Love of a Lifetime” by Lifehouse perfectly describes
our relationship. We never have to
wonder, we know we will always be
there for each other and “it is a love to
last a whole life through.”
The day my daughter, Sophia Rose,
was born, I truly saw the most beautiful creation. Her eyes actually make
the stars look like they aren’t shining
and when she smiles, the whole world
really does seem to stop and stare.
She is the most amazing being in the
world and Bruno Mars’ “Just The Way
You Are” perfectly describes how I feel
about her. There’s not a single thing
that I would change about her.
Have you ever asked yourself, “What would my
teacher do?” The wondering can come to an end!
Submit a question to Ms. Pastor in Room 234.
COLUMN
Leisure literature with Lucinda
By Lucinda Garcia
What would be a better book to review in February than one about relationships? When choosing a novel for
this month’s review, I knew I wanted
to go for a romantic story, but I wanted it to be unique. A personal favorite author of mine, John Green is the
writer to whom I turn.
In Green’s “An Abundance of Katherines,” anagram-loving child prodigy
Colin Singleton has a habit of dating
girls named Katherine. In fact, he has
dated 19 so far. In this entertaining
text, Colin and his Judge Judy-loving
best friend, Hassan, hit the road for
some adventure. The two end up in
Gutshot, Tennessee, and adventure
they get.
Meanwhile, Colin is trying to create
a theorem he calls The Theorem of Underlying Katherine Predictability. The
plan for this theorem is to be able to
predict how a relationship will end and
who will end it.
While the novel does include math,
the understanding of said math is
completely optional. Green actually
includes an appendix in which Daniel
Biss, a world famous mathematician,
explains Colin’s theorem.
I really enjoyed “An Abundance of
Katherines” and its quirky storyline.
The book includes footnotes and interesting facts but never bores the reader.
Green always provides a great lesson in
his works, and once again, he does not
disappoint. The novel is humorous, relatable and odd, yet so imaginable. It is
an easy and enjoyable read.
Anyone would enjoy “An Abundance
of Katherines,” whether he or she is in
a relationship, been in one, never been
in one or does not wish to be in one.
There is something for everyone.
The book made me want to go on a
road trip with my friends and live a
little… responsibly, of course. It made
me long for a summer filled with travel
and risk-taking.
“An Abundance of Katherines” is
Green’s second book and was published in 2006 by Dutton Books. His
2012 novel, “The Fault in Our Stars,”
has gained a lot of attention recently,
but Green’s previous work should not
be ignored.
Look out for our March issue for a review of “Suicide
Notes” by Michael Thomas
Ford. If you plan on reading
this book, let us know!
Write a letter to the editors
including your own opinion
and hand it in to Ms. Pastor
in Room 234.
Courtesy of Lucinda Garcia
Published in 2006 by Dutton Books, “An
Abundance of Katherines” is John Green’s
second novel. The plot includes a roadtrip,
friendship and a love of anagrams. Green’s
most recent novel is “The Fault in Our
Stars,” which was released in 2012.
February 2014
TheLighthouse
LETTERS TO THE EDITORS
Dear Editors,
My newspaper response is to all articles. This time around, I felt all the articles really stuck out. In each article,
there were many details included.
One of my favorites was Melissa Bonacarti’s “Dancing Among the Starz.” I
love how she touched on all of the important details of the beloved Taylor
Dursun. She really included some interesting things about Taylor that not
a lot of people knew. I moved here last
year and this article actually brought
tears to my eyes.
It’s so unfortunate that such a young
girl’s life can be taken away at such a
young age. Melissa made me feel like
I knew Taylor, like she was one of my
personal friends. May she rest in peace.
Sincerely,
Xavier Locke, Class of 2017
Dear Editors,
I really enjoyed Sean McChesney’s
“Brian Griffin returns sooner than he
should have.” The article interested me
because it included a fresh, new topic
that everyone was talking about for
a while. I liked McChesney’s opinion
about how the “Family Guy” writers
need to come up with another idea to
keep the audience interested.
I felt the same way when Brian Griffin
was resurrected. My thoughts rushed
to “Oh, great. Brian’s back. Now what?”
I am glad that I was not alone when I
had this thought.
I hope more articles like this one appear in “The Lighthouse.”
Sincerely,
Lizeth Chicas, Class of 2017
Dear Editors,
As always I enjoyed reading all the articles in “The Lighthouse.” I really liked
Ashley Stephens’ “Students get motivated for midterm studying.”
This article was very interesting because it talked about the different ways
students study for midterms. This article can help students who need to find
the right way to study and get motivated. Reading this article can do away
with a lot of stress that is caused by
midterms and other tests. It can also
help students do well on midterms.
I also liked Assmaa Elbanna’s “Affordable Care Act debate rolls into 2014.” I
liked this article because it is important that everyone can get medical help
if they need it.
Sincerely,
Shannon Kish, Class of 2015
OPINION
A valentine-less Valentine’s Day is the best
By Samantha DeForge
Love seems to be in the air in February. Everywhere people go, they find
red and pink hearts, romance and an
overabundance of chocolate. It is the
time of year that is just too lovey-dovey for comfort.
A lot of people think this is a great
month to be in a relationship because
it means you will definitely have a valentine. Sure, it has its perks like flowers, chocolate, gifts and jewelry. But
honestly, the holiday is more trouble
than it is worth.
Those planning to share Valentine’s
Day with a special someone tend to
set their expectations high. So, if and
when those expectations are not met,
they feel let down. They would be better off spending the day alone than
hiding their disappointment and trying to look like they are having a good
time.
One of the perks of being single on
Valentine’s Day is not having to waste
money on useless gifts. Sure, a homemade present is always an option, but
most girls want a bouquet of flowers
and high-end chocolate, which can be
really expensive. Even cheaper flow-
er arrangements sell for around $35,
which is more than a lot of us have.
And that does not even include the
money spent on the date.
Being in a relationship on Valentine’s Day pressures couples to make
purchases and suffer through inconveniences they would not put up with
otherwise. Aside from the trouble of
buying or making sentimental gifts
and spending money on unneeded
items, going out on Valentine’s Day
can be a real hassle.
On this day, couples swarm movie
theaters, restaurants and other romantic destinations. Their celebration
is not limited to Feb. 14. It extends to
the weekend before and after the holiday. Consequently, for two weeks the
world is overcome with couples who
are way too into each other for those
around them to be comfortable.
With long lines and overcrowding at
theaters and restaurants, it is much
better to stay home than compete with
the mobs. However, those who are in
a relationship on Valentine’s Day do
not have the luxury of avoiding the
crowds.
While those who are single on Valentine’s Day get to band together, those
who have valentines are on dates miss
out on stress-free fun. Traditionally,
all of my friends who are single for the
holiday spend the day together. We always have a blast, having a way better
time with each other than we would
with any valentine, that is for sure.
Courtesy of Samantha DeForge
OPINION
A significant other makes a memorable Valentine’s Day
By Briana Thomas
Every girl dreams of spending a perfect Valentine’s Day with a perfect
valentine. Singles wish to be asked by
that special someone in a way that will
not be forgotten. Meanwhile, those already in a relationship have certainty
about who their valentines will be.
Being part of a couple eliminates the
nervous anticipation that this holiday
brings. It is the only way to guarantee
having a companion with whom to
spend the day. Furthermore, it provides assurance that you will not be a
last minute decision.
If you are in a relationship, you already have the perfect partner for Valentine’s Day. Even if it is just the two
of you at home watching a movie, it
can still be special. However, there is
always that exceptional and unforgettable dream date.
A perfect Valentine’s Day date consists of something simple but special.
Unique ideas include filling a red box
with note cards explaining all your
love for that person, taking him or
her out for a romantic lunch or designing a scavenger hunt. Along the
way, your sweetheart can receive little
homemade gifts and, at the end, a big
present will await them. Another gift
idea is a dozen roses. On each stem,
you could attach a favorite poem that
expresses your feelings. You could also
make a special Valentine’s Day breakfast. Leave a letter or card on your
sweetheart’s plate listing fourteen reasons you love him or her.
Whatever your plan entails, remember that the most important aspect of
the holiday is just having fun and being with the person you love.
Even if you have not found that special someone yet, maintain faith that
he or she will come around. Once that
person enters your life, you will realize
the joy of having a partner who cares
about you unconditionally.
Even though Valentine’s Day only
comes once a year, it is the best day to
really express your love. Yes, you can
always show love. However, a special
occasion that brings the world together in a joyous celebration is the perfect
opportunity to express your feelings.
TheLighthouse
Lyndhurst High School
400 Weart Avenue
Lyndhurst, NJ 07071
_______________________
Adviser:
Ms. Pastor
Editors-in-Chief:
Bianca Fata
Joelle Voza
Written Content Editors:
Samantha Da Silva
Matt DeMarco
Assmaa Elbanna
Emma Flusk
Sean McChesney
Emily Ortega
Nicole Plonski
Staff Writers:
Jessie Bolton
Melissa Bonacarti
Gillian Bove
Gianna Catelli
Kristen D’Amico
Samantha DeForge
Anthony Dell’Aquila
Lucinda Garcia
Lindsay Henning
Gina Minervini
Esin Murat
Nicholas Pacheco
Julie Pacillo
Evangelia Pelidis
Viviana Perez
Estefania Pulgarin-Duque
Luis Quezada
Paul Serrano
Ashley Stephens
Briana Thomas
Jennifer Wartel
Contributing
Photographer:
Rachel Martin
Contributing Artist:
Olivia Perez
Opinion articles do not
reflect the opinions of the
entire staff, only the
writers themselves.
Letters to the editors can
be submitted to Ms. Pastor
in Room 234. However,
they must be signed with
your first and last name in
order to be considered for
publication.
The staff reserves the right
to edit material and reject
any content not suitable
for publication.
3
4
TheLighthouse
OPINION
Seven steps that should not wait until spring
By Joelle Voza
ly, there will be no need for coats and
jackets taking up space in your closet.
Get containers and store away big,
puffy winter coats you will no longer
need to wear. Keep a few sweatshirts
and lighter jackets handy for those
sporadic cold days.
Everyone knows about the dreaded
spring cleaning. But why wait until
the weather gets nice to spend hours
at home doing something you could
have done weeks earlier? Rather than
procrastinating, get it over with while
4. Re-organize your closet.
temperatures keep you indoors.
March comes in like a lion and out
like a lamb, meaning that the weath1. Make your bed.
Nothing is more comforting than er is going to vary often during the
coming home to sleep among fresh spring. To make life simple, organize
sheets. Washing blankets and pillow- your closet into sections. Keep short
cases not only makes for a refreshing sleeve shirts and shorts within reach
rest, but it is also good for your health. and move long sleeves and pants toAfter a while, germs and dust start to wards the back. This will make it easy
to pick out appropriate clothing.
build up even if you do not notice it.
So, start off the spring cleaning pro5. Donate to charity.
cess by making your bed. Not only will
You will feel a lot of relief after you
you feel better, but this one small step
have de-cluttered your life. You can
makes a room look a lot more sleek.
also feel great about yourself knowing
you donated old clothes and toys to the
2. Clean all surfaces.
Wipe down all furniture, mirrors, less fortunate. Go through your closet
television and computer screens, key- and separate the clothes that you have
boards, iPods and phones. Finger- not worn this winter season from the
prints and hairspray get to be tough to ones you sported all the time.
If you have yet to wear it, you probalook past, so take a cloth and give it a
good cleaning. Also, dust your shelves bly never will. Also, consider donating
and smaller items such as clocks, tro- any remaining toys or stuffed animals
that are still in good condition. It can
phies and picture frames.
make a difference in a child’s life.
3. Pack away winter clothes.
In the coming weeks, the weather 6. Get rid of garbage.
will be getting warmer. Consequent- Make a pile of items you do not want
It is a cold winter night. You are
curled up in a ball full of blankets
watching sappy romantic movies and
eating junk food. As a commercial
comes on, you wonder, “What would it
be like to share this night with a special someone?”
Logic soon kicks in.
“Why bother with a significant other?” you ask yourself. “High school relationships never last.”
Seniors Gianna DeLuca, Anthony
Giaquinto and Kara Mackin disagree.
They are in long-term relationships
and say even at a young age, this commitment is worthwhile.
DeLuca started dating Senior Willie Krajnik of St. Mary’s High School
when she was 14 and he was 15. They
have been together for three years and
according to DeLuca, they are going
strong.
“The key to staying in a long-lasting
relationship is trust, working together, having fun, giving each other space
and enjoy[ing] being around each other,” DeLuca said.
Even though DeLuca is happy to be
in a relationship, she said schoolwork
and soccer have presented challenges. DeLuca said while she and Krajnik
both get stressed over academics and
athletics, they stand by each other.
While distance can present problems
for some couples, DeLuca said it is
good that she and Krajnik attend different high schools.
“When we first started dating, it got
me upset, but I eventually got over it
and knew it was the best thing. We
Courtesy of Assmaa Elbanna
OPINION
Valentine’s Day
is overrated
anymore. This could be old shoes, papers or nicknacks no longer needed.
You probably will not even realize
their absence. Collect all empty water By Jennifer Wartel
bottles or other garbage and get it out
of the house. Then, replace your trash
On Valentine’s Day, people with valbags.
entines could not be happier. Meanwhile, singles must either commit
7. Finish up and enjoy!
to not caring or cry because they are
Once all of the above steps are comalone.
pleted, you will feel like you are in a
During the days leading up to Valbrand new room. Vacuum or mop the
entine’s Day, we see those annoying
floor, spray some air spray and open
commercials on television. Pink, red
up the windows. Take a seat on your
and white hearts fill the screens as
freshly made bed, look around and
commercials persuade viewers to buy
welcome warmer weather with a crisp,
pointless gifts supposedly symbolic of
clean room!
this holiday.
Valentine’s Day is intended for spoiling and celebrating the one you love
with flowers, chocolates, love notes
and romantic dates. Sure, the gifts are
cute and all, but they are generally predictable.
Why not surprise the one you love
with a gift at various points throughout the year? That person would appreciate it more knowing you were thinking about him or her on a regular basis
rather than just providing a present
out of obligation.
For those in a relationship, every day
should be treated like Feb. 14. No, you
do not have to buy your significant
Courtesy of Assmaa Elbanna other a gift each day, but you should at
least make him or her feel appreciated
with a daily text or phone call.
Additionally, Valentine’s Day can
make girls question guys. If he gets you
have time to miss each other and not chocolate, is he trying to make you fat?
fight over the little things that could If he does not get you chocolate, does
happen. It also benefits us because if he think you are overweight? If you
we did fight in school, we wouldn’t be do not receive roses, does that mean
focused. Then, when we do see each
other, it’s the best feeling ever,” DeLu- No, you do not have to buy your
ca said.
significant other a gift each day,
“We tell each other what went on
but you should at least make
in our day and talk about whatever
else. He’s literally my best friend. So, him or her feel appreciated with
it’s better off we don’t go to the same
a daily text or phone call.
school because honestly we probably
wouldn’t have lasted this long,” DeLuhe does not love you? Questions that
ca said.
Unlike DeLuca and Krajnik, Seniors make girls seem crazy arise in their
Anthony Giaquinto and Kara Mackin, minds around this time.
We all know that on Valentine’s Day,
who have been in a relationship for
Instagram
will be filled with pictures of
two years, both attend LHS.
Mackin believes high school relation- couples, presents, dates and, of course,
ships are necessary. She said they are singles.
This year, Valentine’s Day falls on
the most important memories of one’s
life and she does not know what she the Friday before a weeklong break.
would do without her best friend by Therefore, those with dates have the
“opportunity” to go to an overcrowdher side.
“He does make me happy in school ed restaurant while singles have the
and motivates me in everything I do,” option of staying home to watch movies or kicking off the vacation by doing
Mackin said.
Like DeLuca and Krajnik, Giaquinto something fun with their friends.
Do not let it bother you if you find
and Mackin are both athletes.
“In the beginning, your relationship yourself single on Valentine’s Day. It
and sports do cross paths with each is one day out of a year of 365. Why
other,” Giaquinto said. “But the more make such a fuss about love one day?
time spent together, the better you Love should be spread across all days.
Valentine’s Day is only good while it
learn how to balance your time equallasts.
Couples may feel happy because
ly.”
Giaquinto emphasized the impor- their significant others provided them
with attention. However, they should
tance of trust within a couple.
“Trust is the most important thing a bear in mind that flowers eventually
boyfriend and girlfriend need to share. die and eating all that chocolate will
Without trust, there is no relation- likely end in regret.
ship,” said Giaquinto.
High school sweethearts stand the test of time
By Gina Minervini
February 2014
February 2014
TheLighthouse
5
High school Many forms of perfection define Valentine’s Day
relationships
meet mixed
opinions
By Jessie Bolton
By Emily Ortega
Valentine’s Day is associated with
pink hearts, candy, stuffed animals
and that perfect date with a significant
other. Dates can vary from the typical
dinner out to something as crazy as
skydiving. That dream date is different
for everybody.
Business Teacher Mrs. Huntington
recalls her most memorable Valentine’s Day date. She said 20 years ago
her husband picked her up at her home
with a single red rose and took her to
dinner at a fancy restaurant in Ridgewood. This was not just any date out to
dinner for her.
“That was the day I knew he would become my husband,” Huntington said.
She said she enjoys Valentine’s Day
because it is a holiday to show love towards the special people in one’s life.
Transitional Resource Teacher Ms.
Hykey does not believe Valentine’s Day
is all that special because she considers
it a “Hallmark-created holiday.” However, she said one Valentine’s Day date
stands out in her mind.
Hykey said she had a previous boyfriend who surprised her by placing
balloons, stuffed animals and flowers
all over her room for her to find when
In the halls of LHS, one can catch
the sight of couples holding hands,
kissing, hugging and looking at each
other with warmth. Sometimes these
couples graduate as high school sweethearts while others do not last more
than a few weeks or months. Others
have on-and-off relationships that
brings frequent arguing and breaks.
With the challenges of relationship
struggles and break-ups, a question
comes to mind: Can high school dating work or do couples burn out under
pressure?
Junior Dylan Stanco knows a thing or
two about high school relationships.
Stanco has been with his girlfriend for
almost two years.
“High school dating is a normal
thing, but some people don’t understand what it means to date a single
person. It means to be committed to
one single person and that [person]
only. You shouldn’t flirt around,” Stanco said. “You should just stick to your
girlfriend or boyfriend and listen to
them and do what they need.”
Although couples do not always last By Emma Flusk
for long, there are those who still beWhile students hear the buzzing of
lieve in happy endings for high school the bell signaling the time to get to
sweethearts. Senior Jasmine Caamano class, staff members hear the ringing
said high school relationships can last of wedding bells, which signal new beeven further than high school.
ginnings. Over the past year, four LHS
“In high school, there will be a lot faculty members have tied the knot
of trial and error, but some couples with their significant others. History
do wind up being high school sweet- Teacher Mr. Clifford, Algebra Teacher
hearts and eventually getting mar- Ms. Harvey, Geometry Teacher Ms.
ried,” Caamano said.
Smietana and Physics Teacher Dr.
Junior Julisa Lawrence, on the other Meyer have all gotten married recenthand, said she does not believe stu- ly.
Love is also in the air in the Math
Department. Algebra Teachers Ms.
“In high school, there will be
a lot of trial and error, but some Florczynski and Ms. Lampmann are
couples do wind up being high engaged to be married. Other faculty
who are engaged are Guidance Counschool sweethearts and
selor Ms. Banta, Art Teacher Ms. Diseventually getting married.”
chler and English Teacher Ms. Pastor.
Lampmann has been with her fiancé
for a year-and-a-half. She said it was
dents should date during high school
love at first sight, explaining that peobecause they are still maturing.
ple find the loves of their lives when
“[Couples] always break up fast or
they least expect it. Lampmann will be
something bad happens with friends,”
getting married in May.
Lawrence said. “It’s a lot on your plate.”
“It is very exciting being engaged. The
Like Lawrence, Sophomore Alex Meinitial weeks of the engagement has
lendez agreed that high school relayou feel[ing] like you are floating on
tionships usually do not last long becloud nine. I couldn’t, and still can’t,
cause of students’ youth.
stop looking at my ring,” Lampmann
“A lot of high school relationships
said.
don’t work because there’s a lot of draFlorczynski has been with her fianma. A lot of people talk [negatively]
cé for nine years. She got engaged two
about other people,” Melendez said.
years ago and will be getting married
Whether one is in favor of or against
in May. Her love story had a unique
high school relationships, one thing is
start.
certain: it is a learning experience.
Florczynski got acquainted with her
“[High school dating] is a natural way
fiancé when he was at her house hangfor teens to find out what kind of pering out with her sister and her sissonality traits they like in others,” said
ter’s boyfriend. They wanted a snack,
Caamano.
so Florczynski and her sister went to
make grilled cheese using a toaster
she got home. One of those stuffed animals was a huge monkey with a card
that read, “Be ready at seven. Dress to
impress.”
Hykey said it snowed on that particular Valentine’s Day, causing their plans
to be cancelled.
“The date turned out to be at home.
That is my ultimate Valentine’s Day in
the sense that I didn’t have to go out
and spend tons of money on dinner
reservations,” Hykey said.
Freshman Marissa Hackett said she
envisions a perfect Feb. 14 date with a
handsome guy coming to her house in
a white limo to pick her up. He would
be wearing a black tux and a red bowtie
carrying a large container of Kit-Kats
and a dozen red roses.
Hackett then pictures dinner reservations at the Chart House in Weehawken and a carriage ride through
New York City.
“My perfect date hasn’t happened
yet, but one day I think it will,” said
Hackett.
Courtesy of Olivia Perez
Faculty members put a ring on it
oven. Her future fiancé was critical of
their food preparation.
“My fiancé insisted that we were
making grilled cheese the wrong way…
and started frying up the bread on our
stove. Mind you, this was probably our
second time hanging out, and I was a
bit taken aback that a practical stranger would tell me I make grilled cheese
the wrong way and start cooking in my
house,” Florczynski said.
Like Florczynski, Smietana has been
with her husband for nine years. In
June 2011, they got engaged. Two
years later, Smietana and her sweetheart sealed the deal.
Clifford married his wife this past
August. The day he proposed to her he
took her to the city for brunch and surprised her with tickets to a Broadway
show.
Clifford made dinner reservations at
a restaurant in Times Square with a
table on the second floor near a window overlooking the street. After their
meal, Clifford excused himself from
the table and asked the waitress to
bring to the table a bouquet of roses
and a card, which he dropped off the
day before.
“While she was opening and reading
the card, I ran outside and got on one
knee in the middle of the street holding the engagement ring. Cars were
honking at me, but at that moment I
really didn’t care,” Clifford said.
Meyer has been with his partner for
almost 22 years. They met in 1986 at
a scientific convention in Washington,
D.C. at an event for gay and lesbian
Ph.D. students. At the time, gay people
had few civil rights and many suffered
due to the AIDS epidemic. There was
no legal protection for relationships,
but Meyer and his
husband made a
commitment
to
each other in 1992.
“Without a public, legal relationship
and the official joining of our families,
we had to work on communication every day and improvise to keep our relationship strong,” Meyer said.
Meyer and his sweetheart first made
their relationship legal with the New
Jersey Domestic Partnership, for
which they signed papers in South Orange in 2004. In 2007, they signed for
a civil union once it was available in
New Jersey.
When the U.S. Supreme Court ruled
this past June that the federal government would recognize legal marriages
from any state, they decided to get
married in the state of Washington to
be close to Meyer’s family.
Most states do not allow gay and
lesbian people to marry, but some are
making strides to become more accepting. Meyer said it is an amazing
feeling to be legally married.
“It was a wonderful wedding, and all
the better because we had been waiting almost 22 years for it,” said Meyer.
Courtesy of Evangelia Pelidis
6
TheLighthouse
Barbie evolves over
five-and-a-half decades
By Evangelia Pelidis
As a doll that is sold around the
world, Mattel, an American toy manufacturer, created Barbie to be a new
friend for young girls. This March, Barbie celebrates 55 years of fun, fashion
and glamour.
“I’ll never forget my first Barbie doll,”
Sophomore Mackenzie Bancroft said.
“She was a ginger like me and was
wearing a blue sparkly bikini that was
painted on. You could take her in the
pool with you when you went for a
swim. It was so cool.”
Bancroft said playing with Barbie
dolls was an activity that brought her
and her sister together. They would
dress up their Barbies and have them
act out movie scenes or take on the
roles of characters in television shows.
According to Barbiemedia.com, Barbie was introduced to the world on
March 9, 1959 in Willows, Wisconsin.
Barbie began as a blonde or brunette
teenage fashion model that sold for
$3. Her appearance and style was influenced by glamorous celebrities like
Marilyn Monroe and Elizabeth Taylor.
The 1960s marked a period of firsts
for Barbie. According to Barbiemedia.
com, a redheaded Barbie was added
“I’ll never forget my first
Barbie doll.”
along with new hairstyles that reflected this decade. She was meant to look
strong, like well-known female figures
of the decade, who included First Lady
Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis and Model Marilyn Tindall. Twist N’ Turn Barbie, the first with a turning waist, was
also introduced in the 1960s, guiding
the doll into the next decade.
In the 1970s, Title IX of the Education Amendment was passed giving
girls equal rights in school and sports.
Similarly, the Barbie of this era wore
clothing meant for playing tennis and
ice skating. She reflected contemporary styles with polyester, glitter and
brightly colored dresses to represent
the decade of disco.
The 1980s brought big hair and leg
warmers to Barbie. She was outfitted
as the lead in her own band called “The
Rockers.” This was also the first time a
dark skinned Barbie was sold, adding
variety to the doll’s physical appearance and appealing to a wider population. In the 1990s, Barbie took on
another popular trend, styled in shoulder pads and scrunchies with teased
bangs.
Barbie continued being reinvented
for a new millennium. For the first
time ever, explained Barbiemedia.com,
kids have been able to choose their
doll’s career, be it architect, environmentalist or surgeon.
Through the years, Barbie has been
the subject of controversy. With a tiny
waist, large bust, neat makeup and
styled hair, critics believe she projects
a false and superficial image. Even
with Barbie’s new, athletic physique,
the doll still encounters criticism.
“[Barbie] is unfortunately something that a lot of young girls idealize
and see as a role model and what they
should be like as a woman when they
grow up,” English Teacher Ms. Burns
said. “This can be dangerous for little
kids because it’s not necessarily a realistic picture of what a woman would be
like.”
Nevertheless, Burns said Barbie can
be a valuable friend or companion for
young kids. Burns said as an only child,
she enjoyed playing with Barbie and
Barbie’s younger sister Skipper. She
would dress them in different outfits
and change their accessories.
Fashion Design and Illustration
Teacher Mrs. Weckstein believes Barbie is not a bad influence. She said
Barbie is just a toy and should not be
viewed like a real person.
“There’s nothing wrong with reaching for the stars,” Weckstein said.
“Barbie was beautiful and had a great
figure. She was an astronaut, she was
a teacher, she was a dog walker. She
did everything, and there’s no reason
why kids shouldn’t think they could do
anything they want.”
Today, Barbie has more than 130 careers, depicts more than 40 nationalities and has collaborated with more
than 75 different fashion designers.
Looking forward, Barbie will go on
a worldwide search to find the perfect
home to purchase after recently selling
her Malibu Dreamhouse. According to
Barbiemedia.com, Barbie will continue
to collaborate with celebrities of the
decade and remain in style.
February 2014
‘Nail craze’ is the phrase
Students weigh in on a colorful hobby
By Gillian Bove
nail art, she said her favorite salons
are Aly’s Nails in North Arlington and
Boutique Nails and Spa in Clifton.
“I personally love nail art and think it
looks great. [It] always makes me feel
better,” Martin said, explaining that a
fresh manicure makes her feel put together.
If cost is a concern, Martin said athome nail art is a good alternative.
“You can buy nail art tools and kits
for $15 on Amazon,” Martin said. “I
think plain nails look boring and no
one should ever have an excuse to have
plain nails.”
Rainbow loom bracelets have made
their way out of the spotlight and
nail art has taken the stage, filling the
school’s halls. Girls at LHS are stroking
on their personalities, using their nails
as a canvas.
“Nail art is worth the time and effort
because it lets us show our personality
while wearing uniforms,” Sophomore
Ashley Bermudez said.
Bermudez said it is an inexpensive
hobby that serves as an alternative to
watching replays of old television dramas.
“It’s fun, and if you think about it,
it keeps your brain going and creativeness expanding,” Bermudez added.
Sophomore Sara Barreiros does not
share her classmate’s appreciation for
the trending obsession.
“Nail art is not okay. It is overrated and not worth the time. Nails just
chip anyway, and boys like clean nails
regardless,” said Barreiros, who will
accept the designs only for special occasions.
If she had to paint her nails, Barreiros said she would choose a classic
French.
“It’s simple, just like my style and
personality,” Barreiros said.
Barreiros is under the impression
that males do not like nail decor, but
Junior Frankie Perez speaks to the
contrary.
“It’s nice to see different styles, different colors,” Perez said. “It even gives
character to the girl, and it’s somewhat
more attractive than non-painted
nails.”
Freshman Jonathan Tkaczyk, however, said it is not necessary for girls to
paint their nails.
“As cliché as it might sound, some
people even say it converts natural
beauty to an artificial version of it,”
Tkaczyk said.
Tkaczyk said nail designs are a good
form of art but are not worth the time
or mess.
Junior Rachel Martin said she does
not have a male perspective but canCourtesy of Gillian Bove and Rachel Martin
not imagine that guys find chipped,
Students add glitter to their nails to bring
crooked nails attractive.
Martin favors the elaborate designs a bit of fabulous to any look.
she sports on her nails every day. Cover photography courtesy of Michelle Lyden
Known for her spunky and festive
from 94 West Salon in Oakland
#Trendoftheyear sweeps across social networks
By Samantha Da Silva
Last year, a trend took over popular
social media networks such as Twitter
and Instagram. The new hashtag that
has everyone expressing their interests twice a week are #ManCrushMonday and #WomanCrushWednesday.
The hashtags speak for themselves.
When Mondays roll around, girls—and
an occasional guy— post their favorite
attractive male celebrities. Meanwhile,
boys, and some girls, post their favorite female celebrities on Wednesday.
Sophomore Noel Triguero participates in the trend regularly. Her
#MCM is Actor Zac Efron.
“If I ever met Zac Efron, I would be
the happiest person in the world,”
Triguero said.
Meeting a celebrity can stir a mixed
reaction between those who keep calm
and those who freak out.
“My #MCM is [Popstar] Justin Bieber. He is the most attractive celebrity
by far,” Sophomore Rosemary Reyes
said. “I would freak out and hug him
and ask for a picture.”
Junior Stephen Covello also takes
part in the fad. His #WomanCrushWednesday is Actress Scarlett Johansson.
“She’s absolutely gorgeous, and I
think everyone could agree with me on
that,” Covello said. “I think it’s a good
trend. You get to see a bunch of different celebrities and people that everyone likes.”
Senior Nick Antiorio occasionally
uses this hashtag. His woman crush
is Model and TV Personality Melanie
Iglesias.
“I think she’s like the most gorgeous
woman ever,” Antiorio said.
Sophomore Chris Bekker does not
have a current #WomanCrushWednesday, but said he finds it interesting to
see who others find attractive. However, he gets irritated by people who post
their boyfriends or girlfriends as their
#MCM/#WCW weekly.
Another shortfall of the trend is the
repetition of certain #MCM/#WCWs.
“The only thing that bothers me is
seeing 50 pictures of Miley Cyrus every week,” Senior Christie Zembryski
said.
Zembryski does not have a #ManCrushMonday, but her #WomanCrushWednesday is Model Kylie Jenner. Most people have never gotten the
chance to meet their #MCM/#WCWs.
However, Zembryski met Jenner at a
meet-and-greet at Garden State Plaza
in Paramus in January 2013.
“She’s gorgeous and is my fashion
icon,” said Zembryski.
February 2014
TheLighthouse
7
Black History Month recognizes African American leaders
By Assmaa Elbanna
African American leaders have shaped
the course of U.S. history. Nat Turner
led a slave rebellion prior to the Civil
War, Malcolm X’s fight for the rights of
African Americans was crucial to the
American Civil Rights Era and in 2008,
Barack Obama became the first African American U.S. president.
February is Black History Month,
which is dedicated to raising awareness of those African and African
American leaders like Turner, Malcolm
X and Obama, whose impact can be
felt today.
Junior Ruka Olunlade is from Nigeria. She, her mother and her three
siblings came to the U.S. when she was
nine years old.
“My family doesn’t really celebrate
Black History Month, but I kind of do,”
Olunlade said. “I go around and make
my friends give me tiny presents for
each day. Some of them actually bring
me gifts.”
Olunlade said last year friends bought
her candies, pencils and tiny gifts. One
friend even bought her a book titled
“Keep Your Head Up: America’s New
Black Christian Leaders, Social Consciousness, and the Cosby Conversation” by Anthony B. Bradley.
Black History Month came about as
a result of the work of Carter G. Woodson, a historian, author and journalist.
Woodson, who earned his Ph.D. in history at Harvard University, was among
the exhibitors at a black history display in Washington, D.C. During the
three-week celebration in the nation’s
capital, he was inspired to form an organization to promote the scientific
study of black life and history.
On Sept. 9, 1915 Woodson and four
others formed the Association for the
Study of Negro Life and History, which
is headquartered in Washington, D.C.
In 1926, Woodson helped to organize
Negro History Week. It was recognized
during the second week of February to
coincide with the birthdays of Abolitionist Frederick Douglass and former
President Abraham Lincoln, according
to the Association for the Study of African American Life and History.
In 1970, the celebration was expanded
to last the entire month of February. It
was renamed Black History Month. As
part of the U.S. Bicentennial in 1976,
Black History Month was officially recognized by the government.
History Teacher Mr. Tessalone said
it is important to acknowledge Black
History Month.
“It provides educators an opportunity to highlight important events
in African American history. It also
allows students to see the injustices
committed against African Americans
in the past,” Tessalone said. “The Social
Studies Department addresses Black
History Month with discussion points
throughout the month. However, African American history is an important
part of U.S. History. So, it is not only a
topic for February.”
On Dec. 5, 2013, Nelson Mandela,
who served as an inspiration and leader to African Americans, passed away
at the age of 95. Born on July 18 in
Mvezo, a village in South Africa, Mandela was a lawyer, political activist,
African National Congress member
and South American Communist Party member. His greatest achievements
were winning the Nobel Peace Prize
in 1993 and leading his country as its
first democratically-elected president
from 1994 to 1999.
In the 1940s, Mandela was a leader
of both peaceful protests and armed
resistance against the white minority’s
oppressive regime in a racially divided
Courtesy of whitehouse.gov
President Barack Obama speaks at the memorial service for former South African President Nelson Mandela in Soweto, South Africa on Dec. 10, 2013.
South Africa. His actions led him to be
imprisoned for approximately three
decades and made him the face of the
anti-apartheid movement both within
his country and internationally.
This movement opposed the system
of racial segregation in South Africa
enforced by the National Party (NP)
governments from 1948 to 1994.
After he was released in 1990, Mandela engaged in the eradication of
apartheid. As president, he formed
a multiethnic government to monitor the country’s transition. When
he retired from politics in 1999, he
remained a public figure devoted to
peace and social justice in his own na-
tion and around the world.
“I think Nelson is an amazing guy.
If you fight to help others and not just
yourself, even if it was one or a million, you are an amazing person in my
book,” Olulade said.
“Nelson Mandela is forever beloved
by his country for fighting for their
equal rights. It was clearly seen how
much he was loved by his country and
by the world when he passed away. He
not only changed the lives of people
during his time but the future as well,”
said History Teacher Mr. Radigan.
From comedy to education, YouTube has it all
By Lucinda Garcia
A new website called YouTube caught
Anthony Padilla and Ian Hecox’s attention on Nov. 19, 2005. The duo
uploaded a video of them lip-syncing
the “Pokemon” theme song. From
that moment on, the two would begin posting videos on a channel they
called Smosh. Today, Smosh is one of
the most popular and well-known YouTube channels with over 14 million
subscribers and just short of 3 billion
video views.
Smosh is among many YouTube
channels with a huge fan base. Other
famous YouTubers include Ryan Higa,
Philip DeFranco, Pewdiepie and John
and Hank Green—arguably two of the
most important contributors to YouTube. Higa’s YouTube channel is called
Nigahiga and has been active since
2006. Similar to Smosh, the Nigahiga
channel is centered on comedy.
Senior Keiji Martinez found himself
becoming a YouTube fan because of
Higa’s videos.
“YouTube, at the beginning, was music videos and all that stuff. But when
I first saw Nigahiga, I started laughing
my butt off it was so funny,” Martinez
said. “It started becoming a habit for
me to watch it, like a TV show.”
While these two content creators focus solely on comedy, Philip DeFranco is all about delivering the news in
a way that keeps viewers entertained
while educating them about current
events.
Like Higa, DeFranco started his
channel, Sxephil, in 2006. His channel
quickly evolved from video blogs to a
full on news show he called “The Philip DeFranco Show.” In 2011, DeFranco
started another humorous news channel called Sourcefed.
Each video focuses on one news event
and the videos are not hosted by DeFranco himself. Instead, their hosts include Joe Bereta, Trisha Hershberger,
Elliott Morgan, Lee Newton and Meg
Turney, all comedy personalities hired
by DeFranco.
“When you watch [DeFranco’s] news,
it’s funny. But when he talks about the
topic and gives his opinion about it, he
gets you thinking,” Martinez said.
“It’s an interesting way to learn about
what’s happening in the world instead
of turning on the TV and watching
CNN or Fox,” Junior Joseph Shinnick
said about news-focused videos.
Also popular are video game channels where YouTubers comment, usually humorously, on new games and
new consoles as they play.
Felix Kjellberg, better known as
Pewdiepie, is one well-known video
game content provider. Pewdiepie is a
Swedish gamer who has only been on
YouTube since 2010.
Martinez’s favorite YouTube videos
are related to video games.
“You get to laugh a little bit,” Martinez said. “Then you’re like, ‘oh wow I
wanna buy that game now too.’”
The number of YouTube channels
with which John and Hank Green are
associated has been growing since
they started their first channel, Vlogbrothers, in 2007. It consists of the
two brothers blogging separately to
each other. The Green brothers’ other channels are mostly all educational
and include Crash Course, in which the
brothers offer History and Literature
taught by John as well as Biology and
Chemistry taught by Hank.
Their other channels are SciShow,
which focuses on topics of Science,
Courtesy of Assmaa Elbanna
Sexplanations, where Clinical Sexologist Dr. Lindsey Doe talks openly
about sexuality, The Lizzie Bennet Diaries, a modern adaptation of Jane Austen’s “Pride and Prejudice” and 2013
Primetime Emmy Award Winning
web-series and Mental Floss, a show
that gives lists of trivia-type knowledge where there is always something
new to learn. Videos include “37 Odd
College Mascots” and “79 Common
Mispronunciations.”
These brothers were also the organizers of the first ever Vidcon, a convention for all YouTube content creators
and their fans.
YouTube is full of unique content
and diverse groups of fans. Junior
Jamie Cirne is one of these fans who
believes that the online communities
have positive effects.
“People are able to feel like they are a
part of something,” Cirne said. “I love
knowing about the different YouTubers I watch and feeling as if I really
know them.”
8
TheLighthouse
Students make fitness a priority
By Paul Serrano
Now is the time of year when hard work really pays
off. Summer will be here before you know it and who
wants to be out of shape when the warm weather arrives? Students at LHS are putting in the hard work
now so when June hits, they will be ready to show
off their beach bodies.
Staying fit is not just about getting looks and compliments. It is about feeling good about yourself and
your body.
Sophomore Damon Petillo said he tries to stay fit
throughout the year. He has a routine every week
which consists of abs on Monday, legs on Tuesday,
biceps and triceps on Wednesday and shoulders on
Thursday. Fridays are reserved for chest and back.
“An overall workout each week benefits me. One
hour-and-a-half to two hours a day is a good time.
Summer motivates me to look my best,” Petillo said.
Junior Jim Nomura swims for LHS’ team in the
winter, but that is not the only season he puts in the
effort to stay fit. Rather, he works out year round.
He watches his diet throughout all of the months,
but especially during swim season. Nomura also
takes multivitamins on a consistent basis.
“It gives you the necessary nutrients your body
needs, and I take it after I workout with a protein
shake,” Nomura said.
Senior Cassie Franchino knows all too well about
the discipline it takes to stay in shape. Franchino is a
senior who played soccer all four years of high school.
She got serious about her workouts when she joined
the soccer team during her freshman year.
“I try to stay fit all year. Sometimes, I get lazy, but I
try to work out three to four times a week. Summer
really motivates me to look my best,” Franchino said.
“I try to work my whole body out every time I workout because I think it’s more beneficial.”
MAP Test returns for round two
By Ashley Stephens
Between Jan. 6 and Feb. 7, freshman and sophomore students experienced a second round of MAP
testing. The MAP, which stands for Measures of Academic Progress, was first administered in October.
A test taken completely online that tailors its questions to the test taker’s performance, the format was
new to students in the fall.
Freshman Douglas Da Silva, who took the MAP
again on Jan. 6, said taking the test so close to midterm exams interfered with his study habits.
“I was kinda stressed because I needed to prepare
for midterms. But first I had to take yet another test,
and it delayed my time for studying. One thing I do
not like about the MAP Test is that it can be really
long and tedious to take,” Da Silva said.
While Da Silva found the timing to be off, he said he
is glad the assessment was computerized.
“Taking the test on the computer felt more comfortable because it didn’t have to be handwritten.
Had we done it on paper, it would have taken several
weeks [to receive my scores], but on the computer,
the results are instant,” Da Silva said.
Sophomore Sara Barreiros said if given the choice,
she would prefer to take the MAP using a scantron.
“Personally, I’d rather take a regular test because
staring at a computer screen for at least an hour
while trying to do math gives me a headache,” Barreiros said. “I do [however] like the fact that the
MAP Test gets more difficult or easier depending on
whether or not you answer questions correctly.”
Since the exams took place during fourth and fifth
blocks, students were required to report to their
testing rooms on their assigned day.
“My teachers were flexible with the schedule of the
MAP Test. So, I was able to make up all the work I
missed,” Sophomore Rosemary Reyes said.
As far as performance on the MAP Test, some
freshmen and sophomores saw a growth in their
scores while others experienced a decline.
Da Silva said he improved 15 points in each section.
“I was proud of my accomplishments,” Da Silva
said.
Although her score in English decreased by nine
points, Barreiros said she saw a ten point increase in
math from the previous exam.
Barreiros and Da Silva agree that the second round
of MAP testing was smoother than the October examinations.
“Taking the MAP Test the second time around was
a little better than the first, mainly because it felt
like it became a routine,” Barreiros said.
Da Silva agreed, saying, “By knowing what to expect and being prepared for what to see on the exam
based on the previous one, it made for a calm and
relaxed process.”
Underclassmen will take the MAP for a third time
between March 24 and April 8.
“I think it’s a good idea to take it again because
it serves as a comparison to how much you’ve improved,” said Reyes.
February 2014
Astrology...
Are you a believer?
By Luis Quezada
One-third of Americans believe in astrology, according to an article published in “USA Today” in
1996. The fastest growing segments among this
population were executives and professionals. Furthermore, a 1999 study by searchterms.com, a
blog about online marketing, found that the words
“astrology” and “horoscope” are among the most
searched topics on the internet.
While the subject has been popular for decades, it
has more skeptics than believers.
“I think astrology is mostly popular because people
try to find answers to their lives in any way possible.
So, by checking their horoscopes and studying their
sign, it gives them a clear understanding of their personality and how one’s day might go,” Junior Jhonny Santos said. “Personally, I don’t believe in it.”
Those who share Santos’ doubts wonder why people are willing to spend their hard-earned money
and precious time on a subject that is so mysterious.
Lyndhurst resident Kim Manfredonia has studied
astrology in her spare time since she was 15 years
old. She is experienced enough to be able to predict
a person’s zodiac sign shortly after meeting them.
“As you get to know people, you learn more about
them. You naturally see their birth signs based on
their distinctive traits,” Manfredonia said. “I strongly believe everyone fits into their sign.”
Though her house is filled with books on astrology,
her faith in the subject is limited. She believes in the
deeper meanings of birth signs, but does not rely on
astrology to predict the future.
“As a Christian, I draw a line between astrology and
religion,” Manfredonia said.
Her son, Senior Vinny Manfredonia, does not share
his mom’s fascination with astrology. However, he
does read his horoscope occasionally to see if it accurately relates to his life.
“I respect anyone and their different belief systems
because I understand that everyone is different,” he
said. “Someone may be passionate about one of their
beliefs as much as I am passionate about my beliefs.”
Sophomore Leo Gonzalez agrees with Vinny Manfredonia that horoscopes should not be taken too seriously, nor should they be completely ignored.
“I encourage everyone to look at their horoscopes
and read about their zodiac sign. Even if you don’t
believe in it, it won’t hurt to try and you may find
something worth searching for,” said Gonzalez.
Students acknowledge need
for bigger cafeteria
By Lindsay Henning
By the time the lunch bell rings at
11:08 a.m., LHS students are starving. Those who go out to lunch cannot
wait until they finally get to a pizzeria
nearby. Students who eat in the school
cafeteria, however, do not always have
such a quick routine. Practically running to the cafeteria, they scramble
to save seats for their group of friends
before the line for food gets too long.
With only 141 seats in the cafeteria, Freshman Kira Adams, Freshman
Jelsin Martinez and Junior Sara McChesney are among the students who
think there is just not enough space.
“There’s a bunch of people here, and
sometimes it’s hard to find a seat,”
Martinez said.
He generally stays in school to eat.
A shortage of space can lead to other problems. Because the cafeteria is
small, it gets crowded, and when it
gets crowded, it gets chaotic.
“I am always bumping into people
trying to get to my seat,” McChesney
said.
Adams agreed, saying, “You can’t
walk anywhere and [students] spill
things everywhere and don’t clean it
up,” Adams said.
Adams, Martinez and McChesney
said LHS needs to expand its cafeteria.
“If the school was to consider making the cafeteria bigger, I would agree.
The line for food is always so long, and
it is always so crowded at lunch,” McChesney said.
With over 700 students in the school,
Courtesy of Samantha Da Silva
the cafeteria can only fit about 20 perThe cafeteria has 141 seats, while there are over 700 students at LHS.
cent of the population.
February 2014
TheLighthouse
Working hard? Or hardly working?
Students struggle to find part-time employment
By Paul Serrano
Enough is just not enough. Handing in application
after application is not cutting it. You know you are
the right fit for a job but cannot attain it because the
position is already filled. You finally find an available
job, but it is not hiring high school students.
This sums up a lot of students’ challenges in gaining employment. Whatever the circumstance, jobs
are not easy to come by.
Senior Salomé Machado is currently an unemployed student searching for work. With local jobs
from the experience.
“If you can’t adjust to society and how it works, it
will be hard to succeed,” Wagner said.
On the other hand, there are some students who
have had luck in finding employment.
Senior Paul Minervini found his job by chance while
covering a delivery shift for his cousin at “Jojo’s,” a
pizzeria located on Ridge Road. Minervini picked up
a spot on staff when one of the employees left.
He not only enjoys good tips but also dishes like
the chicken parmigiana.
“It’s a good job. It pays well,” said Minervini.
“If you can’t adjust to society and how
it works, it will be hard to succeed.”
hard to find, Machado is looking for work at nearby
malls as a plan B. Not having a job can be emotional
and stressful.
“It doesn’t feel great to not have a job and you need
money for everything. So, it’s tough,” Machado said.
Junior Kevin Wagner can relate to Machado’s
struggles. Not only has Wagner put in applications
around Lyndhurst but to surrounding towns as well.
However, so far he has come up with nothing.
While some blame the economy, Wagner does not.
Wagner said he takes it all in stride and tries to learn
Courtesy of Samantha DeForge
Students experience the paranormal
By Nicole Plonski
The paranormal phenomenon has been alive for
ages. It has swept the nation through films and literature, yet the question, “Is it real?” remains on people’s minds. While skeptics have their doubts, some
LHS students have personal stories that make them
believers in these celestial beings.
“I see spirit everywhere, all the time,” said Junior
Diana Shinnick, a professional medium and empath.
“It doesn’t matter if I am in Algebra class, or out
to eat or reading a client, they always want to pass
along a message.”
Shinnick said she has been seeing “spirit” ever
since she was born. This prompted her to start offering private and group sessions two years ago. Shinnick said one of her favorite memories from these
readings was when a man brought her the number
sixteen. She shared this information with her client, who started weeping because her husband had
passed away on the sixteenth.
Shinnick said another one of her favorite sessions
occurred when a skeptic came to get a reading. She
said his deceased brother came through and told her
about a necklace that was in the client’s back pocket. Shinnick said the client was stunned and started
crying. He had brought with him the necklace that
honored his brother as a test if he could trust the
experience.
Shinnick said she loves seeing the healing and comfort that comes from knowing nobody is alone.
Freshman Victoria, who asked her last name not be
included, has also had paranormal encounters.
“I used to see spirits walk around and mumble incoherent words but never had the guts to try and interact with them,” Victoria said.
Victoria said her first experiences took place at her
aunt’s home, where she would hear squeaky noises
and the floor creaking in the late hours. She said one
night as a little girl, she was sitting with her family in the living room and the rocking chair moved
on its own. They later found out an elderly lady had
passed in their home.
Victoria also said about three years ago in her Seaside Heights home, she would see a man’s shadow
walk around her room. This sometimes caused her
to wake up hyperventilating. Furthermore, she saw
a little boy sitting in the backseat of her mom’s car
as if accompanying her to school every morning. His
image was only visible in the mirrors.
Sophomore Gianna Jacobelli also believes in ghosts.
“We knew something was wrong because my brother and sister used to be scared and wake up crying
and feeling like something was bothering them at
the same time every night,” Jacobelli said.
She said it all started when her family moved into
their house in 2008. On one occasion, she said her
brother slept in her mom’s bed and come morning,
his bed was moved across his room.
Jacobelli said she and her friends play the Ouija
board and communicate with the same two ghosts
each time. She said her mom has previously contacted a priest and he suggested throwing the Ouija
board out.
“I was walking out of my room, and it felt like someone grabbed my arm. But no one except my mom
was home at the time, and she was at the opposite
end of the house,” Sophomore Rianna Cafaro said.
Cafaro said this unearthly experience was one of
her first. However, to this day, household items are
moved and turn on by themselves at least once a
week. Cafaro said she has woken up in the middle
“I was walking out of my room, and it felt
like someone grabbed my arm. But no one
except my mom was home at the time, and
she was at the opposite end of the house.”
of the night and the string to her blinds was being
pulled out and up. She also had a small traveling
white orb appear in a video she shot during the summer.
Cafaro said her friends never want to come to her
house after she tells them about a new experience,
but they do anyway.
While many may be frightened by the paranormal
and afterlife, Shinnick said it is nothing to fear.
“I hope to spread the message that death is not the
end. It is only the beginning,” said Shinnick.
9
Are tanning beds
friend or foe?
By Joelle Voza
December 14 was a frigid, snowy day with freezing temperatures. The roads were slick and sidewalks
were icy. But that did not stop Senior Tony Urgola
from trudging on Ridge Road to City Tropics Tanning Salon in North Arlington. He was committed to
spending a full 12 minutes in his favorite open sun
tanning bed.
As a result of MTV’s reality television show “Jersey
Shore,” the phrase “Gym, tan, laundry,” also known
as “GTL,” has become part of many people’s daily
routines. Going to the gym and doing laundry are
signs of maturity, but does tanning really belong in
this group?
Tanning is especially popular for special occasions,
such as proms, weddings or dance competitions.
Some tan more regularly, saying that maintaining
sun-kissed skin gives them confidence and improves
their spirits during the gloomy winter months.
Urgola said he started tanning in March for LHS’s
prom, which took place in May.
“Just ten minutes in a tanning bed will change your
life,” Urgola said, citing the “Jersey Shore” catchphrase, “Tan lines are for land mines.”
Though Urgola is devoted to tanning, he said it is
important to space out one’s visits because going too
often can be especially dangerous. During the two
months before prom when he was working hard on
his tan, he used the high level beds twice a week. After he achieved his desired bronze glow, he switched
to the low level beds twice a week to maintain his
color.
Urgola said tanning beds are a good way to even
out one’s complexion. Even though the direct UV
rays from the tanning beds are not healthy, he said
the results are better than one would get from a day
laying out in the sun.
Art Teacher Ms. Dischler said she used tanning
beds when she was a teenager. She started frequenting Hollywood Tans in North Arlington when she
“Just ten minutes in a tanning bed
will change your life.”
was about 17, but has only gone occasionally since
entering her 20s. Since skin cancer runs in her family, Dischler reconsidered her tanning habit.
“Teenage skin is so good and young,” Dischler
said. “Don’t damage it at such a young age. It will put
you more at risk for health problems.”
However, Dischler said she plans to start tanning
a couple of weeks before her wedding in August, explaining that she wants to look her best because it is
an important day where lots of photos will be taken.
Junior Makayla Berko is a competitive dancer who
goes spray tanning before big competitions.
“I like the beds better… but the spray is so much
better for you and you only have to go a couple times
for it to look good,” Berko said. “Spray tans become
ashy. Tanning beds always look more natural,” Berko
said.
Tanning beds lack some of the benefits of spending time in the sun, said Ms. Nowinski, LHS’s school
nurse. Short periods of time in direct sunlight can
supply the body with Vitamin D, which can ward off
depression.
“UVA and UVB rays come from both natural sunlight and tanning beds. UVB waves are responsible
for the absorption of vitamin D,” Nowinski said.
“Most tanning salons regulate their beds to have 95
percent UVA rays to minimize the risks of burning,
when actually it is also decreasing the vitamin D absorption greatly.”
No cautionary tale or medical fact is stopping Urgola, though, who renewed his City Tropics membership for another three months.
10
TheLighthouse
Drum roll please...
LHS’s top five albums of the year
February 2014
Mr. Rizzo
continued from page 1
Now, he adds upper elementary school principal to
his list of accomplishments.
U.S.
Billboard
200,
making
them
the
first
group
in
By Julie Pacillo
“Becoming a principal has been a career goal of
history to debut at number one with its first three
In a recent survey conducted by “The Lighthouse,” albums. The record was lead by the release of the sin- mine since I have been in education. So, personally I
over 100 students shared their favorite music al- gles “Best Song Ever” and “Story of My Life.”
feel a great sense of pride to have reached a goal. The
bums of 2013.
fact that I am a principal in Lyndhurst gives me an
“The Marshall Mathers LP 2”- Eminem
even greater sense of pride because I love the town
“Nothing Was the Same”- Drake
In fourth place, “The Marshall Mathers LP 2” is the
In first place, LHS students chose “Nothing Was eighth album by American rapper Eminem, released of Lyndhurst. I grew up here. So, having the opporthe Same” written by Canadian recording artist on Nov. 5. It features guest appearances from sing- tunity to help students in the Lyndhurst School DisDrake. The album was released on Sept. 24. Drake ers Skylar Grey, Rihanna and Fun front-man Nate trict fulfill their potential means a great deal to me,”
enlisted collaborators including 2 Chainz, Big Sean, Ruess. The only other rapper appearing on the al- Rizzo said.
Despite his satisfaction with his current position,
Jay Z, Jhené Aiko and Sampha to appear as guests bum was Kendrick Lamar. This album includes hit
Rizzo
said he still misses those days of teaching
on the album. Six successful singles including “Hold singles “Berzerk,” “Rap God” and “Survival.”
math lessons and pushing his team to victory, even
On, We’re Going Home” featuring Majid Jordan
“Born
Sinner”J
Cole
if games went into extra innings.
supported this album. It has now sold a total of
LHS
students’
fifth
place
choice
was
“Born
Sinner,”
“I miss the daily interaction with my students.
1,029,000 copies in the U.S., according to the U.S.
by American hip-hop artist J Cole. The album was Those interactions helped me to build many relaBillboard.
released in the U.S. on June 18. It is the follow-up tionships with students over the years that I will
“Bangerz”- Miley Cyrus
to his debut album, “Cole World: The Sideline Story,” always cherish. However, as I continue to meet stuComing in a close second was “Bangerz” by Miley which came out in 2011. The album features guest dents from day to day, I am trying to build new reCyrus. This album was released on Oct. 4. Described appearances from , 50 Cent, Jhené Aiko, Bas, Amber lationships, and hopefully I can maintain those relaby Cyrus as “dirty south hip-hop,” Bangerz rep- Coffman, James Fauntleroy, Miguel, Kendrick La- tionships over the years,” Rizzo said.
resents a musical departure from her earlier work. mar and TLC. Cole, along with Jake One, Christian
Donohue is one of those students with whom RizFurthermore, the record features guest vocals from Rich and Syience produced it.
zo has built a strong relationship. Donohue said Rizseveral new partners, including pop singer Britney
zo was a great teacher who made math clear and easy
Spears and rappers Big Sean, French Montana, Fu- “Artpop”- Lady Gaga
to understand.
Tying for fifth place with “Born Sinner” was Lady
ture, Ludacris and Nelly.
“I miss his humor. We’d be in the middle of a class,
Gaga’s “Artpop.” Released on Nov. 6, it is the third
and
he would crack a joke out of nowhere,” Donohue
“Midnight Memories”- One Direction
studio album by American recording artist Lady
said.
“Midnight Memories” is third on LHS’s list. En- Gaga. It features guest appearances from Twista, R.
Now that Rizzo is in his new role, his daily routine
glish-Irish boy band One Direction released this al- Kelly, T.I. and Too $hort. Singles from Artpop inis
far different and less structured than it used to be.
bum on Nov. 25. It debuted at number one on the clude “Applause” and “Do What U Want.”
“When you are a teacher, you follow your class
Art courtesy of Ashley Stephens
schedule from period to period. As principal, my
schedule needs to be much more flexible due to the
nature of the job. Many different things arise from
day to day and minute to minute. So, I need to make
sure my time management is efficient every day,”
By Gina Minervini
Rizzo said.
Rizzo said he intends to improve Lincoln School by
Readers who loved “The Hunger Games: Catchachieving student-based goals.
ing Fire” by Suzanne Collins celebrated on Nov. 22,
“My vision is that students continue to and imwhen the movie version of the book was released.
prove
upon taking a great deal of pride in becoming
The film had box office success with $161 million in
better
citizens. Understanding what a good characthe first four days alone, according to “The New York
ter can do for a person is vital to your success in life.
Times.” The entertainment news website “Variety”
Another goal for the school is to help students grow
reported that pre-order tickets accounted for 23 perinto leaders and make them realize that they have
cent of sales 24 hours before the movie premiered.
the knowledge and power to become a leader. It is
The book started with a print run of 350,000 copies
the confidence they need to develop,” Rizzo said.
in Sept. 2009 and grew to over 750,000 by FebruA motivated principal who is a well-known individary of the following year, according to “Publisher’s
ual in the Lyndhurst community, Rizzo carries with
Weekly.” This 391-page best-seller quickly developed
him the support of former students and athletes.
a cult following.
“I wish great success for Mr. Rizzo in his new posiFreshman Alyssa Mezzina has read the novel and
tion
and for him to never give up on his students as
seen the movie, concluding that the novel is better.
he didn’t give up on us when he was our coach,” said
“There are parts from the book that are not includSawires.
ed in the movie. However, the movie was still very
Courtesy of Gina Minervini
good,” Mezzina said.
Even though Mezzina prefered the novel, she liked said reading the book before viewing the film
that the scenes in the film matched Collins’ origi- helped her to better understand the complex movcontinued from page 2
nal work. Mezzina said scenes on the big screen ap- ie, which builds on Collins’ work.
peared just as she imagined them.
“Readers get extra information in the movie and
“Your Touch” by The Black Keys.... Where there is
Freshman Uxia Parada also likes the movie but said the reader can also truly connect with the characheartbreak, there is falling in love again! The Black
she prefers the novel.
ters,” Frey said.
“It has a lot more detail than the movie,” Parada
English Teacher Ms. Burns read the first two Keys made a terrific song about falling in love. It’s
said.
novels in the “Hunger Games” trilogy and saw the amazing that a song with just two instruments can
Her favorite part of the film occurs when Katniss, movie versions as well. She said the film is a worth- tell you exactly what it is like to fall in love.
While the Black Keys have this song, they also have
the main character, cries about her partner Peeta’s while addition to “The Hunger Games” collection.
near death. Parada said it is a great scene because
“The film ‘Catching Fire’ truly captured all of the plenty of songs about what happens when the love
it presents a visual representation of the characters’ emotion that was in the book, but the book was of one’s life becomes another “psycho she-devil” ex.
emotions.
more emotional than action-pack, like the movie I’m in the same boat as Dan Auerbach and Patrick
Carney when it comes to that.
Sophomore Tayla Frey also favors the novel. Frey was,” said Burns.
“Life’s Been Good to Me So Far” by Joe Walsh....
This song has been around since before I was born,
but it’s been the theme of my own life. I find it funny that it’s even been sampled on Eminem’s new album. This song defines my life because I’ve had my
struggles and I’ve had my triumphs. I’d like to think
I’m successful, and I have had a great time getting to
that success. Like Joe Walsh says, “I can’t complain,
but sometimes I still do. Life’s been good to me so
far!”
Catching opinions on ‘Catching Fire’
Mr. Newman
Mark your calendar
Mid-Winter Recess begins on
Monday, Feb. 17 and ends on Friday, Feb. 21.
February 2014
TheLighthouse
11
Wrestling towards a strong finish as season draws to a close
By Bianca Fata
Halfway through the season, the
wrestlers are preparing themselves for
the postseason.
Junior Captain Rocco Russamano
was out for the majority of the season with a broken foot. This was a big
loss for the team because Russamano
was a key wrestler in his weight class
“Our overall drive and
determination has gone up since
the beginning of the season.”
last year. He is now back and said he is
working on his cardio and trying to get
in shape to place in districts.
“Our conditioning has gotten a lot
more rigorous,” Russamano said. “Our
overall drive and determination has
gone up since the beginning of the season. We only have three seniors. So, it’s
great to see motivation in underclassmen for the future of the program.”
Sophomore Shayne Cosme wants his
team to have a successful postseason
by earning a place in the top three at
districts to move on to regionals.
“We need to have a better team record, and as a result, we can have more
than one kid make it past districts,”
Cosme said.
Districts are the first step to the
state tournament in Atlantic City. The
team’s best shots for districts this year
are Senior Captain Joey Morreale and
Sophomore Corey LeClerc.
Once a wrestler places in districts,
he moves on to regionals and eventually the state tournament. This meet
of champions is one of the most prestigious tournaments for which a wrestler can qualify.
Courtesy of Lors Studio
Sophomore Corey LeClerc wrestles his opponent from Becton Regional High School at
a home match on Jan. 8.
The last LHS wrestler to win his bang for my senior year,” Morreale
weight class in the state tournament said. “I just have to work hard in pracwas Don Pritzlaff in 1995-1997.
tice and we’ll see what happens.”
“It would be great to go out with a
As of Feb. 6, the team was 8-10.
Bowling team spares no school on its rise to the top
By Matt DeMarco
As the number four team in the “The
Star-Ledger” top 20 and the top team
in “The Record” top ten, the bowling
Courtesy of Lors Studio
Sophomore Denis Taras (above), Junior
Daijon Smith (top right) and Freshman
Ryan Donohue (bottom right) compete
against Becton Regional High School on
Jan. 28.
team keeps breaking records and winning matches.
The team is rallying behind Juniors
Jordan Lopez, Junior Daijon Smith
and Freshman Ryan Donohue. Seniors
Mike Dul and Massimo Sarracino as
well as Junior Emily Young are also
contributing to the success.
On Jan. 18, the LHS’s bowlers made
history by breaking Bergen County’s
tournament record for the highest
score for all six games. LHS shot a
6220, which is nine pins better than
Bergen Catholic High School’s previous record of 6211.
Junior Captain Jordan Lopez said he
was proud of his team’s performance.
“We did awesome in the county tournament. Everybody did their job,” Lopez said.
Lopez and his teammates did not
take their feet off the pedal after the
tournament. They kept rolling over
teams in match play. Lopez bowled his
second career perfect game on Jan. 28
against Becton Regional High School.
In addition to the perfect game, Lopez
was named “The Star-Ledger” Week
Two High School Top Performer.
The team has not lost a match all
season, with a 15-0 record as of Feb. 7.
The team has three out of the top five
averages in its league. Donohue said he
is playing to the best of his ability, but
still wants to improve his average.
“Daijon Smith and Jordan Lopez are
doing great and always deliver when
you need them to. Overall, our team is
doing phenomenal,” said Donohue.
Smith said he believes his team has
the chance to win titles.
“No matter who bowls, we still have
the ability to win. My expectations for
the rest of the year are to win state sectionals and also win the state tournament,” said Smith.
Meet the hockey players of LHS
A: Yes, I play for the Montclair Blues
and this past season I played on the
This marks the first year that LHS has U16AA.
offered ice hockey as a winter sport.
Three LHS students join Paramus High Q: What do you hope to do with your
hockey career after high school?
School’s players in a co-op team.
A: After high school, I would like to
Evan Kelly, Sophomore
play hockey at a college level.
Q: When did
Ryan Smith,
you start playing
Sophomore
hockey?
Q: When did
A: I started skatyou start playing
ing when I was
hockey?
about three or
A: I started playfour years old in
ing this year.
my backyard beBy Gianna Catelli
cause my dad would build a rink and
continues to do so to this day, but I
started playing on a team when I was
seven years old.
Q: Why did you start playing hockey?
A: I wanted to play because I’ve always
been a really big hockey fan. Plus, my
brother played.
Q: Why did you start playing hockey?
A: I started playing mainly because my
brother played and because I had skating experience from the rink that my
dad built.
Q: Do you play on a club or travel
team?
A: No.
Q: What do you hope to do with your
hockey career after high school?
Q: Do you play on a club or travel A: I’d love to play in college and go pro,
team?
but I have to keep my sights a little
more realistic.
CJ Anderson,
Sophomore
Q: When did
you start playing
hockey?
A: I started playing ice hockey
when I was nine
years old, but I started playing roller
hockey when I was seven years old.
Q: Why did you start playing hockey?
A: I started playing because I wanted
to get out and have some fun.
Q: Do you play on a club or travel
team?
A: Yes, I play for the Montclair Blues.
Q: What do you hope to do with your
hockey career after high school?
A: After high school I don’t know
whether or not I will continue to play
or just be a fan. Right now and especially in college, education will always
be my main activity. I do plan on being
around sports for as long as I can.
Gear up for
the SAT
and ACT
SAT DATES:
March 8
( Feb. 21 late
registration)
May 3
(register by April 4)
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12
TheLighthouse
February 2014
Boys basketball looks to step up its game
By Samantha Da Silva
As the season progresses, boys basketball is striving for improvement.
The team continues on the road with a
record of 9-8 as of Feb. 7.
With a solid defense, Coach Palek
said he hopes to keep tallying up wins
this season.
“We’ve been really playing hard, and
defensively, we’ve been good all year.
It’s what we work on all practice,”
Palek said.
Freshman Zachary Fenton, a basketball fan, agrees that the team is strongest in its defense.
Fenton said Senior Captain Jon Hoff,
Junior Marc Estevez and Junior Brandon Karlok do well in guarding the
best players on the opposing team. He
said Seniors Kyle Krzastek and Captain Sergio Turelli contribute to the
lockdown defense as a whole.
“They are all pretty good. Marc and
Jon are the standouts and Serg is the
leader at point guard. Kyle and Brandon have a good role,” Fenton said.
Estevez, Hoff and Palek are in agreement that offensive improvements
need to be made.
“I think that we are definitely an
above 500 team. We’re struggling on
offense and hoping some guys could
step up and make some shots. We’re
getting good looks. We just need to
step up and make them,” Palek said.
Hoff said the starting five is playing
hard and well, however in their overall
game, there still need to be improvements to make the jamboree.
Estevez said a more fluid offense and
teamwork are key in order to rack up
more points.
“I think that we have a possibility to
win every game here on out if we play
to our capability,” Estevez said.
Courtesy of Lors Studio
Juniors Marc Estevez (left) and Brandon Karlok (right) compete in a game against Rutherford High School on Jan. 17.
On Jan. 27, the boys took on SecauThe boys came back on Jan. 30 to decus High School. The boys lost to their feat Dwight-Englewood High School
rival 53-47 in a close game.
51-49.
Girls basketball players remain ambitious despite tough season
By Nicholas Pacheco
With the ambition of Coach Cousins,
the new girls basketball coach, the girls
are aiming for success despite a rocky
start with a 1-14 record as of Feb. 6.
Cousins said he feels there is room for
improvement.
“We need to communicate better
especially on defense. Our defensive
rotations will be that much stronger
if we talk more. Also, something that
has improved, but can be better, is our
turnover rate. It continues to improve,
but it’s definitely something we work
on,” Cousins said.
Cousins said they also need to work
on their boxing out and rebounding,
considering they are not the tallest
team. He also feels they can improvise
on scoring the ball.
The girls started their season off on
Courtesy of Lors Studio
Senior Christie Zembryski runs the of- Dec. 20 with a 25-51 loss to Dwight-Enfense at a game against Harrison High glewood High School.
School on Feb. 5.
“Everyone has weaknesses, and the
players know their individual weaknesses that they need to improve in
order to become well-rounded basketball players. As a team, they need to
protect the ball and reduce turnovers,”
said Freshman Girls Basketball Coach
Mr. Fagan.
Cousins said so far he has enjoyed his
first year as a coach.
“I’ve been fortunate enough to have
such an awesome team. Obviously,
we have flaws, but our character, energy and work ethic are tremendous.
They continue to get better and their
improvement is a direct result of how
hard they have worked,” Cousins said.
“Coach Cousins has done an excellent job of taking our team to the next
level. Even though their record doesn’t
say much, our girls improve every day,”
Fagan said.
“Coach Cousins pushes us to do better and better each day that goes by,”
Sophomore Liza Haxhaj said.
The girls had a victory on Jan. 14,
beating Leonia High School 49-38. Senior Christie Zembryski and Haxhaj
both had a double-double during that
game.
Despite the tough season, Cousins
said he is looking forward to the future
of the program.
“What I see in the long run for the
team is nothing but upside. We have
many freshmen and sophomores
who are growing into nice players
this year, which lends itself to a really positive outlook for the future,”
Cousins said. “Unfortunately, we have
four seniors who graduate this year.
However, that means younger players
have two or three years to step up their
game and contribute to the rise and
improvement of our team and program,” Cousins said.
“The girls are working very hard and
getting better every day. They come
out every day and give 110 percent,”
said Fagan.
Swim team rises from the depths of the pool for a record-breaking season
By Anthony Dell’Aquila
The swim team concluded its season
at a league meet on Feb. 1.
Since swimming is a relatively new
sport at LHS, having its first season
during the 2009-2010 school year,
there were many records for the taking.
This season’s record breakers were
Senior Fiona Carbone, Freshman Ivy
Carbone, Junior Chris Kidchob, Freshman Justin Kidchob, Senior Kara
Mackin, Freshman Amanda Marek
and Senior Paul Minervini.
“We had an amazing season. It was
another amazing experience,” said
Mackin. She broke school records in
the 200 IM and the 100 meter breast
stroke with times of 3.08 and 1.32.20.
Although this season just ended, Junior Varsity Swimmer Aaron Spahiu
is already looking ahead to his senior
Courtesy of Lors Studio
year to improve his personal records
Freshman Ivy Carbone swims the butterfly at a home meet.
and the team’s overall performance.
“I did better than I thought I would next year to finish up my swimming son of swim finish, but it was one of
this season, and the entire team [did] career well,” Spahiu said.
the best experiences of my life,” said
too. I’m definitely looking forward to “I’m extremely sad to see my last sea- Senior Captain Fiorella Vecco.