Class of 2008 - Cardinal Gibbons High School

Volume 46, Issue 5
Cardinal Gibbons High School
May 23, 2008
The Voice of the Chiefs
www.cghsfl.org
Class of 2008 is Great!
"You have brains in your head. You have feet in your shoes.
You can steer yourself in any direction you choose. You're
on your own. And you know what you know. You are the guy
who'll decide where to go." ~ Dr. Seuss
Commencement exercises for the Class of
2008 will begin at 9:30 a.m. on Saturday, May 24th at
War Memorial. The Valedictorian, Meaghan Bresnahan, and Salutatorian, Catherine Bocksel, will address
their class. The top 10 seniors academically and the
colleges they will be attending are alphabetically:
Catherine Bocksel (University of Miami), Meaghan
Bresnahan (Johns Hopkins), Matthew Eisel
(University of Florida), Scott Gereffi (University of
Florida), Kristen Jugs (University of Florida), Morganne Lliteras (University of Florida), Reza HandleyNamavar (Georgetown University), Andres Navarro
(University of Florida), Stephanie Picon (Dartmouth),
Marissa Prieto (University of Florida).
Best wishes to them and all 292 seniors who
are prepared to move on to their next challenge whatever it may be. Mr. Zmuda, the Senior Class moderator, said, “Congratulations to the Class of 2008. Good
luck next year and in all your future endeavors.”
Top Ten pictures on page 32
News
2-12
Seniors are on the move.
Academic winners page 2
Opinion
13-18
Anna Durie volunteered in
Honduras. Page 15
Top Ten students keep going up!
Sports
19-26
Macy Huskey broke the
record in the mile. Page25
Entertainment
27-32
Prom Queen Kathryn Lepine
and King Shane Connelly-32
2
Academic Award WinnersInsight
May 23, 2008
Class of 2008
The Academic Awards are given by each department to senior students who have demonstrated outstanding performance in that content area. This year’s recipients are the following:
Drama:
Marguerite Peterson and Christine D’Amore
Language: French: Amanda Hollingsworth
Spanish: Ariel Urban
Music:
Erick Crow and Scott Gereffi
English:
Amanda Amuso and Lauren Burton
Insight:
Editor-In-Chief: Erin Kelley
Science:
Amanda Sucharitchant and David Bonner
Excelsior: Editor: Jessica Lang
Technology Editor: Anna Durie
Mathematics:
Matthew Eisel and Anthony Finelli
Social Studies: Reze Handley-Namavar
and Morganne Lliteras
Congratulations to
these outstanding
students of the
Class of 2008!
Visual Arts:
Jacqueline Hirsch and Kathryn Scudder
Class of 2008
Insight
May 23, 2008
3
Valedictorian and Salutatorian of ‘08 Riding High
By Shawn Kelaher
This year’s graduating class of nearly 300 can boast
of a number of exceptionally outstanding students. Valedictorian Meaghan Bresnahan and Salutatorian Katie Bocksel are
the two highest ranked students of the senior class.
Mr. Coyle, who taught both girls AP History, said,
“They truly represent the Advanced Placement student with
consistent study habits and preparation every day. What I
appreciated the most was the positive attitude that these
young ladies brought to class day in and day out. This attitude
permeated the classroom and lifted us all up.”
These girls succeeded not only in the classroom, but
outside the classroom as well. Both participated in sports and
many extracurricular activities. Coach Crocco said, “These
two young ladies are such a credit to Cardinal Gibbons. We in
the Athletic Department are so proud to say that they have
been a part of the sports program. We know that they will be
a success in everything they do; they will make us proud.”
Katie Bocksel (left) and Meaghan Bresnahan
Valedictorian
Salutatorian
Meaghan
Bresnahan, an accomplished athlete and
scholar, has swum for
CGHS all four years
of her high school
career. One of her
swim coaches, Mr.
Zmuda, said, “Most
mornings she practiced at 5:30 a.m., and
she was still able to
maintain a GPA of
4.95.
Meaghan
dropped time in sevMeaghan Bresnahan
eral events, allowing
her to swim at the
state swim meet this year.”
During her senior year, she received the BCAA
Scholar Athlete Award and was also a National Merit
Award Semi-Finalist. She received the “Who’s Who
among America’s High School Students” scholarship
and has been on the Honor Roll all four years. She is an
active member of National Honor Society, Spanish
Honor Society, English Honor Society, and is an AP
Scholar with Honor.
Next year she will attend Johns Hopkins University where she will major in writing and biology.
She said, “As a freshman, I set a number of goals for
myself, all of which I have accomplished. I feel that I
am well prepared for college, largely thanks to CGHS.”
Katie Bocksel has earned over
400 service hours
throughout her four
years of high school
volunteering as a core
teen member of the
EDGE Youth Group
and for other organizations. “Katie is obviously intelligent and
studious, but these
qualities pale when
one considers her
more human qualities
Katie Bocksel
of generosity of time
and talent, her willingness to include others in her world, and her ability to
share her smile and her laughter,” said Mr. Cornejo, her
AP European History teacher.
She is the president of National Honor Society
and a dynamic member of English Honor Society, Mu
Alpha Theta, Latin Honor Society, and Student Leadership. She has been one of the Top Ten all four years of
high school.
Katie feels that CGHS has provided for her a
valuable academic structure that she will use throughout
her years in college. She said, “The past four years have
been some of the most memorable of my life. I hope to
gain just as much throughout my college experience.”
Katie has a GPA of 4.91. She will attend the
University of Miami next year and major in biology.
4
Class of 2008
Insight
May 23, 2008
Silver Knight Success
By Anthony Finelli
After months and months of hard work and dedication, our Silver Knight nominees’ efforts culminated with the
final awards ceremony on April 29th. Blair Budd was a winner in the Foreign Language category. She was awarded $500,
a plaque and the title of Silver Knight. “I was surprised when
my name was announced,” Blair said. “There were so many
other good competitors there, and they were all great.” Blair’s
project primarily involved helping Angels in Action, a nonprofit organization, that raises money for a tutoring program in
the community of La Vega in the Dominican Republic. Blair
will be attending University of North Carolina Chapel Hill.
Students from all public and private schools competed. There were only 4 winners in each category. It is an
honor just to be invited to the ceremony since certain require-
Students “Built for the
Road Ahead”
By Jennifer Gilday
Winners of a $1000 Ford
Scholarship are Ariel Urban (UF) who
won the award in Athletics, Kristen
Jugs (UF) won in Language Arts and
Foreign Language, and Reza HandleyNamavar (Georgetown) won in Social Sciences. Scholarship applicants
are considered for their community
involvement, academic achievement,
demonstrated leadership, quality of
character, life goals and interests, obstacles overcome, and meaningful
objectives achieved.
Salute to Education Inc. is a
non-profit organization which is
funded by the Ford, Lincoln-Mercury
Division, Ford Credit, and Ford Customer Service Division. Community
volunteer participation has been a
very important factor in this scholarship’s campaign success. Through this
scholarship program, over 2.9 million
dollars has been awarded to 2,900 students in Dade and Broward County
who have excelled in various categories.
Ariel Urban
Kristen Jugs
Reza Handley-Namavar
ments have to be met. Other
nominees were Ariel Urban,
D an ie l Morr is , A ma n d a
Sucharitchant, Reza HandleyNamavar, Maggie Peterson, and
Stephanie Picon. “These students really are the best of the
best,” said Mr. Coyle, the Silver
Knight co-coordinator.
[Correction: There was an
error printed in our last issue
about the Silver Knights.
Amanda Sucharitchant’s category was said to be Music when
in actuality it was Science.
We regret this error.]
Blair Budd
Catholic Leader
By Janette Duval
Each year one senior,
who exhibits Christian character receives the Archdiocesan
Catholic Leadership Award.
This year the recipient is Alfonso Villegas. Alfonso has
helped at countless school
Masses and has been an altar
server for over 10 years at his
local parish, St. Ambrose. He
has also had the prestigious
honor of serving with the
Bishop at four Confirmations.
Alfonso Villegas
Fr. Alonso, head of the Theology Department, commented,
“Alfonso Villegas is one of the finest students I have the
privilege to teach this year. Politeness, hard work, integrity
beyond question, and, as the young people say, ‘He is one
who puts his money where his mouth is.’ I would change
it bit to: ‘He puts his life where his mouth is.’ The number
of service hours he has done, the heart he puts into all the
tasks he undertakes, and the quality work he does in his
Parish community qualify him well for this award.”
Alfonso commented, “I am honored that they
picked me out of so many. I feel that there are a number of
my classmates who are as involved as I am in the church
and school. I was never looking for a reward. I just liked
helping out.” He plans to attend Dartmouth this fall and
aspires to someday be an ambassador.
Class of 2008
Insight
May 23, 2008
5
Seniors of National
Achievement
By Lauren Cuervo
Every year the juniors take the PSAT in hopes of being nationally recognized by the National Merit Scholarship
Program. Students are notified during their senior year of their
level of achievement based on their overall score on the test.
This year, seven CGHS seniors qualified for the first round of
the program. Each had an index of over 200 points, placing
them in the top 4% of the nation. This year’s National Merit
Commended Students are Morganne Lliteras, Reza HandleyNamavar, Jacqueline Ludwick, Jonathan Perez, Matthew Eisel,
Kylie Nunziante, and Emily Swartzbaugh.
The top level of National Merit recognition, the SemiFinalists, are among the top 1% in the nation with an index of
212 or higher. Meaghan Bresnahan was this year’s only National Merit Finalist with a score of 214.
The National Merit Program also recognizes Hispanic
students who score in the top 3% of their nationality. This
AP Scholars with Honors:
The National Merit Award winners pose for a snapshot:
Jonathon Perez (standing, left), Kylie Nunziante, Emily
Swartzbaugh, Reza Handley-Namavar, (seated) Jaqueline
Ludwick, and Meaghan Bresnahan
year’s Finalists are Morganne Lliteras, Jonathan Perez, and
Marissa Prieto.
Student Government 2008
Cardinal Gibbons also had much success in AP testing
last year. After taking their exams, 16 of this year’s seniors achieved AP Scholar status by scoring a 3 or higher
on 3 or more AP exams. This year’s AP Scholars with
Honors are the following:
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Patrick Anderson
Nicolas Biondolillo
Meaghan Bresnahan
Christine D’Amore
Scott Gereffi
Reza Handley-Namavar
Patrick Harrington
Kristen Jugs
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Erin Kelley
Morganne Lliteras
Kylie Nunziante
Margueritte Peterson
Stephanie Picon
Marissa Prieto
Robert Thibault
Alfonso Villegas
The 4 Student Government Officers this year are Dan Morris,
president, (above, right), Ross
Carter, and Mary Mullen. Patrick Anderson is pictured giving the morning announcements. The officers took
turns reading them every day
this year.
They wish to thank
the entire student body for
making this a wonderful year.
6
Class of 2008
May 23, 2008
Insight
Outstanding Outreach
By Janette Duval
Of the 292 seniors, 128 will be receiving the gold
cord, which is awarded to those who have completed a minimum of 250 service hours. Students have discovered various
ways in which to earn these hours.
Francesca Ascione has amassed nearly thirteen hundred service hours through volunteering at a variety of different establishments and programs such as Habitat for Humanity, Ronald McDonald House and helping out at her parish ,
Mary Help of Christians. She plans to attend UF this fall.
Austin Belt, who plans to attend the University of
Alabama, has earned nearly twelve hundred hours through
helping out with our Volleyball and Wrestling programs. He
also volunteered at First Presbyterian Church and St. John the
Baptist Church.
Blair Budd has accumulated close to eleven hundred
hours by volunteering at the Boca Raton Community Hospital,
American Cancer Society, and her work on the National Honor
Society’s blood drive for which she was rewarded. “I had a
great time organizing the event and was really happy with all
the students who turned out to support NHS,” she said. She
plans to attend Chapel Hill this fall.
Morgan Sambell garnered nearly eleven hundred
hours through her tireless dedication to First Presbyterian
Church of Fort Lauderdale, where she earned nearly a thousand hours. She plans to attend Stetson University in the fall.
Andrew Lister accumulated nearly nine hundred
hours through volunteering at Bethesda Memorial Hospital,
Student Leadership and Holy Cross Hospital. He will be attending Nova this fall and plans to continue his education by
majoring in medicine.
Tyler Hall, who plans to attend UCF this fall, accrued
close to eight hundred hours through volunteering at the Coral
Ridge Little League Program and as a City of Pompano Beach
Junior Lifeguard. He was also involved with CGHS volleyball
and St. Elizabeth Church.
Chris Thibault, who plans to attend UF this fall, has
close to eight hundred hours. He was involved with St. John
(Left to right) Blair Budd, Francesca Ascione, Patrick Harringon, Morgan Sambell, Austin Belt and Leif Lunde (lounging)
are a few of the senior students with the most community service hours.
the Baptist Church, Second Generation Singers and the American Red Cross.
Patrick Harrington, who plans to attend UF this fall,
accrued nearly eight hundred hours. He was involved with the
St. Joan of Arc Catholic Church, CGHS Drama Department,
National Honor Society, and the Boca Raton Community Hospital. “I had a really great time volunteering in my community
and my parish. I highly suggest that anyone who is interested
should do the same. You’ll have a great time,” he said.
Nicole Tegge garnered nearly 720 hours with her
involvment with Highlands Christian Academy, Drama Department, Student Leadership, and Kids in Distress. She plans
to attend UF this fall.
Lief Lunde, who is going to attend FSU this coming
fall, earned nearly 800 hours through his involvement with
Second Generation Singers and the Red Cross. He plans to
major in vocal performance at FSU.
News
Insight
May 23, 2008
7
B-Z Bee
Pinnacle Award Winners
By Janette Duval
By Matti Perez-Cubas
There was a tremendous turnout on Thursday April
10th for the second annual Cardinal Gibbons Spelling Bee
put on by the English Honor Society (EHS). It was club
president Mandy Sucharitchant who first proposed the idea
of a Spelling Bee a year ago. There was a five dollar entrance fee which covered food, drinks and participation in
the bee. The spelling bee was held in order to raise money
for books for underprivileged children. The entire event
raised $561. There were 2 rounds with about 20 participants
each. Words ranged from Animosity to Zealous. Prizes were
awarded to the winners: juniors Nelly Bloom, first place;
Frank Pettineo, second place; and Kourtney Destefano, third
place. “Everyone really did a great job! We had a lot of fun.
A big thanks to everyone who showed up and supported
us,” said vice president Shawn Kelaher.
Three hard-working juniors are chosen annually for the
Pinnacle Awards. This year, Ryan Bass, Yodeline Guerrier,
and J.P. Ross were honored for their outstanding efforts.
Ryan Bass, Junior Class president, is described by his
teachers as a natural leader. He is actively involved in Campus Ministry and is a true athlete, who participates in volleyball, wrestling, and surfing.
Yodeline Guerrier, known by her friends as "Yode," has
managed to maintain a high GPA in addition to being a
thespian and a pianist. She has participated in all the school
drama productions and is a member of Youth Leadership
Broward.
J.P. Ross has donated over 920 hours of his time in
the past three years to his church, school, and community.
He is a member of the National Honor Society, a board
member for the Junior Class, a member of Student Leadership, and a Lacrosse player.
A reception was held for all Broward County Pinnacle
Award winners on April 24th at the Signature Grand in
Davie. “It was an absolutely lovely event,” said Dr. Breton.
Nelly Bloom is the winner of the Spelling Bee.
Moderator, Mrs. Primavera said, “We had a wonderful turnout. I am very pleased so many people are getting
involved with the Spelling Bee. The money goes to a great
cause, First Book, which promotes literacy.” It a nonprofit
organization with a single mission: to give children from
low-income families the opportunity to read and own their
first new books. More than half of the children, 55%, reported having an increased interest in reading. Additionally,
the number of young people demonstrating a "high interest
in reading" nearly tripled after receiving their first books.
The Pinnacle Award winners are pictured at the banquet
(left) Ryan Bass, Yodeline Guerrier, and J.P. Ross.
8
News
May 23, 2008
Insight
Freedom’s Foundation at Valley Forge: Spirit of America
By Staff Writer
CGHS students Katie Carpenter, Jennifer Gilday,
Ryan Lamarca, Anna Lindsay, and Frank Pettineo were nominated and selected to attend Freedom’s Foundation at Valley
Forge (FFVF). (These students had to complete an application
including an essay, supply recommendations, and be interviewed.) FFVF is a non-profit organization which sponsors
students from across the nation to travel to Valley Forge,
Pennsylvania. There, the students are immersed in an intense
curriculum which includes not only learning about the Constitution, but also utilizing the enduring document in the modern
world. The students take tours of Valley Forge itself, Old
Downtown Philadelphia, the Liberty Bell, and Independence
Hall, where the Declaration of Independence was created and
signed. The attendees learned Parliamentary Procedure, and
how Congress collaborates to amend bills and laws. The aim
of FFVF is to educate the American youth in civics in order to
promote a more active and educated citizenry. The Spirit of
America Program is specially designed to help high school
students develop confidence and individuality, fine-tune leadership skills, and meet high-school-age leaders from all over
the United States.
Anna Lindsay, a junior, said, “I would recommend it to
everybody. It showed me good leadership skills and how to
communicate with a group. It gave me an opportunity to meet
people from all over the country with different points of view.”
All who attended were definitely changed by this
great opportunity. Frank Pettineo, a junior, said “The Freedom’s Foundation at Valley Forge was an enriching experience in which I learned to appreciate my citizenship, as well as
College Chat
By Matti Perez-Cubas
Let Freedom ring! The leaders are striking a pose in front of
Independence Hall.
gain a better understanding of the values on which our country
was based.”
All the attendees from Broward County met again on
May 4 for a luncheon at the Coral Ridge Yacht Club. They
reminisced about their trips, and discussed the way the program left an indelible mark on their education, leadership, and
American Spirit. For more information visit http://
www.freedomsfoundation.com/vols.asp.
Mrs. Blythe. “Everyone was open and detailed about their
experiences.”
At the end of the program, Mrs. Blythe asked each
graduate to offer a final word of advice to the college-bound
seniors. Although each had his or her own unique words of
wisdom, perhaps the most valuable came from Yale student
Harib Ezaldein: “Get some sleep!”
Each year, Cardinal Gibbons invites a group of recent
alumni to speak about college life with current seniors who are
in their last semester of high school. This year, that tradition
was continued with seven
recent graduates: David
Nau (American University),
Karli MacDonald (FSU),
Alex Jean (UCF), Tori Moffat (Penn State), Megan
Good (FAU), Kyle
McLemore (UF), and Harib
Ezaldein (Yale University).
They were asked
questions that ranged from
their major, extracurricular
activities, and crazy roommates. “I think this was the (From left to right) Graduates David Nau, Karli MacDonald, Alex Jean, Megan Good, Kyle
best college panel yet,” said McLemore, Tori Moffat, and Harib Ezaldein offer some guidance.
News
Insight
May 23, 2008
9
Nulli Secunda (Second to None)
Some 135,000 students around the world, including Brazil for the first time, did not heed
the warning, given to Julius Caesar, to “Beware the Ides of March” as these students took the National Latin Exam. Congratulations go to the Latin 1 Honors and Latin 2 Honors students and
their teachers, Sister Marie Schramko and Mr. Adolino, for their accomplishments.
Mr. Ott commended the students for working so diligently to bring honor to Cardinal
Gibbons and themselves. “Ad Astra per Aspera” (“Through difficulty we reach for the stars”).
Latin I Honors
" Veni, Vidi, Vici!"
Latin II Honors
Latin I students with their certificates and medals. ( From left to right)
William Tyler, Margaux McIntyre, Barrett Budd, Donald Capi, William
Costa, Ryan Singh, Savannah Finn, Phoebe Neff, Shannon Weiss, Jackson
Bailey, Kathleen Lawless, and Sister Marie Schramko
Mr. Ott congratulates Katie Lawless on her award in Latin I Honors.
Students display their Latin Award certificates and
medals. (From front left, clockwise) Ian Rickard,
Samantha Fazenbaker , Lauren Gillespie, James Carpenter,Giancarlo Champin, Victoria Taravella, Juliana
Alessi, and Matthew Whebell
Mr. Adolino reviewed with his
students before the big exam.
10
News
Insight
May 23, 2008
NHS Welcomes New Members
By Kristen Jugs
Being inducted in National Honor Society is a huge
honor. On April 6, NHS inducted 69 juniors and seniors, the
largest group ever in Gibbons' history. The new members
were admitted based on leadership, scholarship, service and
character.
The ceremony took place at the Fort Lauderdale Yacht
Club, where new members and their families met for the ceremony and later enjoyed refreshments. Dr. Bonniwell, the
moderator, welcomed everyone, and Mr. Zmuda, Mr. Ott, and
Blair Budd addressed the group. Sister Marie gave each inductee a stole, and Mr. Ott handed out the certificates.
The current officers also received recognition for
their dedication to the club over the past year: Katie Bocksel,
president; Scott Gereffi, vice president; Amanda
Sucharitchant, secretary; and Anthony Finelli, treasurer. Blair Budd also received a special award for her hard
work running the many blood drives this year.
Dr. Bonniwell is presenting Morganne Lliteras a plaque
for her efforts in organizing and running the Brain Brawl.
Katie Bocksel (left) is announcing the winners. Sr. Marie and
Mr. Ott are presenting Brian Lynch, Holly Loeffler, Anna Lindsay and the others not pictured with their stoles and certificates.
New inductees (left to right) are Cristina Chidiac, Kevin Griffin, and Kelly Kunzman who smile for the camera at the NHS
ceremony.
Below are the names of the
new inductees:
Seniors
David Bonner
Christine D'Amore
Lindsay Davis
Adrienne Tegreeny
Juniors
Alexandra Anania
Erica Aispuro
Brian Battye
Andrew Biviano
Megan Boss
Michael Brady
Paul Brooks
Christina Chidiac
Hunter Cwalinski
Patrick Cummings
Alissa DelToro
Matthew Diaz
Michelle Dzung
Drake Evans
Rebecca Frank
Dyllan Furness
Angela Giunta
Jennifer Gilday
Kevin Griffin
Nicole Grunwald
Yodeline Guerrier
Rebecca Handal
Patrick Hanley
Ashley Herbert
Daniel Ieraci
Kelsey Ingerto
Sarah Juliachs
Claudia Kaufman
Amanda Kovacs
Shawn Kinney
Tim Krickovich
Harrison Kublin
Kelly Kunzman
Ryan LaMarca
Lauren Leniart
Anna Lindsay
Holly Loeffler
Brian Lynch
Jennifer MacDonald
Kayley McLaughlin
David Miller
Christina Nelson
Matthew O'Dea
Frank Pettineo
Stephanie Preston
Kacie Raiano
Kristi Ray
Brittany Rickard
Joseph Ross
Nicholas Salerno
William Savor
Erin Scarpinato
Courtney Smith
Melissa Stankee
Grace Svatek
Adrienne Tegreeny
Maureen Thieme
Ryan Tordella
Kenneth Veliky
Alexandra Vitale
Jordan Wald
Alex White
Kelsey Williams
Thomas Williams
Kimberly Withum
Congratulations!
News
Insight
National Honor Society Activities
By Kristen Jugs
Brain Brawl
St. Coleman placed first in the NHS version of Jeopardy for future Gibbons students on April 5. The annual
Brain Brawl gave students from St. Coleman’s, St. Mark’s,
and St. Elizabeth’s the chance to show off their knowledge
and win prizes. The competition was open to students in 5th
through 8th grade.
The teams could choose questions from 5 categories:
math, science, literature, current events, and social studies. Morganne Lliteras hosted as Alex Trebek on the TV version , and was helped by Stephanie Gorman and other NHS
members.
“Everyone got really into it, so it just made the
whole experience a lot more fun and worthwhile,” said
Moranne.
May 23, 2008
11
MUN: Model UN
By Justine D’Addio
What is Model UN? It is an organization that over
400,000 middle school, high school, and college students
participate in worldwide. It allows students to be a
“delegate” while debating current issues, making speeches,
and negotiating with allies and adversaries.
Model UN’s main aim is to resolve problems that
affect countries all over the world. The organization promotes students’ and teachers’ knowledge of the world they
live in and allows them to meet new people. Many of the
current leaders in law, government, business, and the arts
were once members of Model UN.
The club was started when former student, Cita
Peterson, and former teacher, Dr. Rowen, saw a need for
such an informative organization at Gibbons. They formed
the club and participated and competed quite successfully
for several years. Ms. Zamora took on the task of continuing what these two people started.
She calls the club’s current president, Morganne
Lliteras, an “essential tool.” Morganne spent a great deal
of time after school planning and organizing the trip to
Gainesville where our students would have the opportunity
to engage in debate with other Model UN members.
On February 22, 2008, fourteen members, moderator, Ms. Zamora, and chaperone Mr. Lonteen went to
Gainesville to represent Cardinal Gibbons. Members participated in various debates and performed extremely well
individually. In particular, first time attendee, Nick Picon,
did exceptional well.
NHS members are intense before the Brain Brawl begins.
Saving Lives
The last blood drive
donated 103 pints and almost
doubled last year's April drive of
65. It was a great success. NHS
thanks all parents and students
who donated to help save lives.
This drive was sponsored by the
Community Blood Centers of
South Florida. “For us seniors,
it's a good feeling to know that our last blood drive was just as
successful as the first,” said Blair Budd, committee chair person.
Though the results have not been finalized, NHS
members are hoping that Gibbons will be the highest donating
school in Broward County for the second year in a row.
Members of MUN are (left) Lauren Gillespie, Victoria
Marchelos, Nick Picon, Rebecca Frank, Alexis Lacman,
Morganne Lliteras, Stephanie Picon, Kimberly Withum,
Kelly Schwantes, and Ms. Zamora.
12
News
Insight
May 23, 2008
Spanish Honor Society Inducts new members
By Justina Coronel
The induction of the new members of Spanish Honor
Society was held on April 24th. SHS was formed to recognize
above average achievement in Spanish and promote continuity in Hispanic studies. The new members were chosen for
their high achievement in scholarship, community service,
moral character, and leadership.
The ceremony began when the new members entered the
chapel holding white lit candles. President- Ariel Urban,
Vice-President- Patrick Harrington, Secretary- Stephanie Picon, Treasurer- Meaghan Bresnahan, and Historian- Maggie
Peterson, all spoke during the ceremony. Mrs. Zamora, the
moderator, then announced that the event was dedicated to the
memory of Cita Peterson, a former SHS President and 2006
graduate, who recently passed away.
Next year the new members will have to maintain their
GPA, attend all monthly meetings, peer-tutor fellow students,
attend field trips, and participate regularly in service projects
for the school and community. The new candidates must act
in the highest moral character and exemplify the best behavior.
New SHS officers are (left to right)
President: Erica Aispuro,
Vice President: Kelsey Ingerto,
Secretary: Nicole Grunwald
Treasurer: Amanda Cornwell
Historian: Sarah Juliachs
After the ceremony, the new members felt a sense of pride
to be a part of this wonderful program. Todos para Uno, Una
para Todos, is their motto. “All for One, One for All.”
The new members of SHS are with Ms. Zamora, the moderator.
These are the new
SHS inductees:
Ascione, Gabriella
Bogdan, Rachel
Broker, Stephanie
Bresnahan, Molly
Buchanan, Courtney
Coronel, Justina
DiMizio, Sofia
Field, Taylor
Griffin, Kevin
Griffin, Lauren
Gomez, Samantha
Gwaltney, Jenna
Halder, Madison
Halverson, Alexander
Humeston, Courtney
Kelley, Erin
Kull, Kendra
Navarro, Gabriel
Oberer, Alexis
Quiroga, Mayra
Romeu, Alex
Schwantes, Kelly
Seiler, Marianna
Silberstein, Sarah
Sweeney, Shellby
Vitale, Alexandra
Wallace, Kaitlin
Weisz, Catherine
Opinion
Insight
May 23, 2008
Adieu, Cardinal Gibbons
The very last letter from this Editor
So this is it. High
school is…fin. And I can pretty
much guarantee next year’s Editor-in-Chief won’t “totes be
abbrev-ing err’thang for the lolz.”
Miss me yet? Anyway, it has been
a pleasure being the top banana
here in GH1’s Insight mothership,
and though I’ve been criticized for
my writing style, I’ve stayed unapologetic about always being
myself and that has helped me
grow as a writer.
Erin Kelley
Here in Loewe’s Death
Star, it’s been nothing but a great time crankin’ out stories
and trying to hack through the SmartFilters on the CGHS
internet database. Through it all, I’ve become close to the
staff and tried to connect with the school with a more studentoriented newspaper than ever before. We breakin’ ground,
people. It was difficult at times, but we did it (right?) and I
hope, from the bottom of my black hole of a heart, that you
enjoyed it.
I did it for the smiles on your faces! Every Insight
day I rubber-banded and delivered those glorious papers up to
your respective last period classrooms, and seeing the grins
spread across your faces at the thought of some nonacademically oriented, mediocre reading material gave me
butterflies. I felt like a girl of thirteen again… granted, seeing
them in the recycling bin directly after the bell rang was a bit
upsetting, but I appreciate that you’re doing your part in the
fight against global warming. Props.
One doesn’t really know what to say when writing
the farewell state of my union address to my fellow Catholic
schoolgirls. . . and boys. So much has happened this year, and
through thick and thin, Insight has had your back. Unity is the
fundamental appeal of Gibbons when you get down to it. I’ll
miss it. I mean, will I never see Ross dance around in an Indian headdress again? Will I ever have to stick my hands in
that bacteria filled bleach water to “clean” a tray one last
time? And where’s my junior ring? We grow up too fast. I
love all of you, and I wish you all the best in your journey
through the remainder of your high school experiences.
I guess you could consider this my senior letter to…
everyone. So, just for me, look around and realize that Cardinal Gibbons is a beautiful, shining, beacon of light that just
happens to also be a religiously affiliated high school in
sunny Fort Lauderdale. It’s so bright here! Seriously, I get
heat rash sitting at my car at lunch. That’s crazy! (and probs
TMI). Whatever, I can’t take it back now.
Later alligators,
Erin Kelley
Editor-in-Chiefsicles
13
Gibbons Goes Country
We had the largest crowd ever, over 400 people,
attended the 17th Annual Auction. It brought in over
$190,000, which is going to the Campaign for C-Wing. All
of the guests could see how the 2nd floor addition has enhanced the look of the campus. The 2nd floor covered walkway connecting all of the buildings is taking shape and
should be completed before the beginning of the next year.
JP Ross, Giugliana Santini, Holly Loeffler, and Patrick Ross
are taking a break from helping out at the Auction.
Photo by Adrian Rubio
14
Opinion
Insight
May 23, 2008
Contributing Writers: Rachel Bogdan, Justina
Coronel, Weston Mildren, and Daniel Stark
Insight Staff:
Dedicated to providing a deeper vision of
scholastic, spiritual and social activities
Editor-in-chief: Erin Kelley
Columnist: Erin Kelley
Cartoonist: Adrienne Tegreeny
Contributing Photographer: Brother Brickman
Graphic Designer: Anthony Finelli
Sports Adviser: Mrs. Eileen Melnicoff
Adviser: Mrs. Rita Loewe
Staff Writers: Lauren Cuervo, Justine D’Addio,
Nick Dimov, Janette Duval, Anthony Finelli, Jennifer Established November 1962
Gilday, Kristen Jugs, Shawn Kelaher, Erin Kelley,
and Matti Perez-Cubas
Congratulations to the Class of 2008!
Insight Staff: (Inset) Kristen Jugs (UF), (Standing, left to right) Matti Perez-Cubas
(FSU), Nick Dimov (FSU), Justine D’Addio (UCF), Erin Kelley (Sarah Lawrence),
Jen Gilday (junior), Lauren Cuervo (University of Alabama); (Seated) Shawn Kelaher
(FSU), Anthony Finelli (UF), and Janette Duval (Flagler College)
Goals you set are
goals you get!
By Weston Mildren
Karate has been a big part of
my life since I was 4 years old. My initial goal was to meet the challenge of
becoming a First Degree Black Belt; so
many times I wanted to quit because it
was hard work and took much of my
free time.
Once I achieved that goal at
age 10 and felt the pride of wearing my
Black Belt for the first time back in the
Dojo, it inspired me to challenge myself
further to attain the Second Degree. Fi-
nally, after 11 years, the Third Degree
Black Belt was awarded to me at Parker
Playhouse on April 5, 2008 by my mentors, Kyoshi and Master LaVallee. This
is a huge personal achievement for me
both physically and mentally.
The lessons I’ve learned such
as respect, perseverance, integrity, focus
and self discipline are all skills that I can
apply to my educational enrichment. If
students are interested, I would be
pleased to show them some self-defense
techniques. Knowing they could fend an
attacker off easily, students could gain
more self confidence. The day we stop
making excuses and take responsibility
for ourselves is the day we move forward to the path of success.
Weston Mildren is congratulated on earning his Third Degree Black Belt.
Opinion
Insight
“Thank you” A
big “Thank you”!
In the name of the Piarist Fathers
Latin Mission and, of course, in his own
name, Father Alonso wishes to thank all
for their generosity toward his cause.
The donation totaling $1000 is greatly
appreciated.
The Latin Mission operates in
the rural communities of Tabasco, Mexico. Various projects are prioritized by
greatest importance. Primary concerns
would be possible emergencies in terms
of food and medicine in the area. Secondly would be the community projects
that are either already set in motion or
perhaps proposed for the near future.
These plans must be of the community
and for the benefit of the whole community.
May 23, 2008
15
The local residents along with the
members of the Mission determine the
steps that need to be taken to see the
project come to fruition. The Latin community takes the first step; then the Mission assists with the next. When the local community takes the third step, the
Mission takes responsibility for the
fourth and so on alternating charge until
the plan is completed.
“These people are our brothers and
sisters,” says Father Oscar, “and they
appreciate all we do for them.” The Piarist Fathers will keep everyone in their
hearts and prayers, and they wish a very
restful and enjoyable summer to the Cardinal Gibbons Family.
Father Alonso is pictured with a
family at the Latin Mission in Tabasco, Mexico.
Helping Hands and
Hearts
By Nick Dimov
Seniors Anna Durie and Ariel Urban went above and
beyond their Spanish Honor Society duties. During the Easter
Break, when most of their friends were relaxing, these two
students chose to go on a Mission Trip to Honduras with Ms.
Zamora. “What an awesome show of humanity and love,” said
Ms. Zamora, SHS moderator.
Ariel and Anna made such a positive impact with the
children of Our Little Roses. These children, all girls who
range in age from 2 to 20, are placed at this home for various
reasons: child abuse, abandonment, and/or neglect from their
families.
Easter Sunday, Anna and Ariel went to Mass where
they met the girls for the first time. Later they took them out to
Wendy’s. (Yes, there is a Wendy’s in Honduras.). Later that
day the little ones had an Easter egg hunt, and every afternoon
they spent doing several planned activities. Anna and Ariel
painted a room, cleaned, scraped, and painted outside stairs,
and, most importantly, socialized with the children after
school.
Every evening, they went to the Chapel to pray and
sing in Spanish and English. Anna and Ariel were able to put
into practice all those years of learning the Spanish language.
“It was just a breath of fresh air to hear them speak and com-
municate with these girls,” said Ms. Zamora.
On April 3rd, they received a letter from the administrator of Our Little Roses, thanking them for sharing their time
with the children and staff and for helping them “to accomplish the vision of preparing girls for the future to become
integral members of society by creating an atmosphere of
love, self-reliance and respect.”
Anna Durie (left) and Ariel Urban are pictured with
two of the girls from Our Little Roses in Honduras.
16
Any Last Wo
Insight
May 23, 2008
What is yo
high schoo
What will you miss most
about CGHS?
Tara French- "My favorite
memory of high school was
dressing up like 'senior citizens'. It was very fun and
something I had looked forward to all four years!"
Where
Nick Fajardo- " I will miss food selling in every classroom during raffle
the most."
Lindsay Cheatham- "I will miss volleyball
the most. I love playing here with Gibbons! It's so weird walking into the gym
and knowing I will never play as a Gibbons student again."
Where do you see yourself in 10 years?
Cristina Araya- "In 10
years I see myself having
a family and hopefully
being successful in my
career."
Cody Liese- "In 10 years I see
myself married, planning to
have a child or about to have a
child. And I will have a decent
job to support my family."
Insight
ords, Seniors?
May 23, 2008
17
ur favorite
ol memory?
If you could be a Greek
god or goddess, who
would you be?
Mike Balakonis- "If I could be
any Greek god, it's a toss up
between Artemis and Psyche...Charzard is a good one
too..."
Blair Walsh- "My favorite memory from
high school was traveling down to
Pace High School for the regional football playoffs. We were the clear cut
underdog and defeated them and advanced to the next round."
e are you going to college?
Claire Grysko- "If I could be a
Greek Goddess, I would be Artemis. I just think she is the
coolest! Plus, her brother Apollo
is pretty cool too."
Jimmy Zloch- "I already
am a Greek god. You obviously didn't see me playing
dodge ball."
Adrienne Tegreeny- "If I could be a Greek
god, I would be Hermes because I'd want
to be able to fly like him. I mean, think of
all the money I could save on gas! Plus,
those sandals he wears are pretty
snazzy!"
18
Ad
May 23, 2008
Insight
Insight
May 23, 2008
19
In Remembrance
Caitlyn“Chelly”Lockard
Alumna to Angel
By Justine D’Addio
By Erin Kelley
Usually a time
for celebration, this past
Easter Sunday was instead a mournful day
for anyone who knew
Caitlyn Erin Lockard.
She passed away early
morning on March 23,
2008 due to an automobile accident. Caitlyn’s
sudden death two
months shy of her senior graduation came as
an utter shock to all.
Later Easter night, GibChelly Lockard
bons students and
1990-2008
friends of Caitlyn gathered at Lauderdale-by-the-Sea Park for a candle-lighting
ceremony in her memory.
Caitlyn’s memorial service was held that Thursday evening at The Center for Spiritual Living where she
participated in the youth group for several years. Family,
friends, and teachers came together to celebrate Caitlyn’s
life. One by one they reminisced about her fun attitude
towards life and her child-like spirit. The ceremony was
rather uplifting and recognized the gift of living rather
than a life lost. There seemed to be more laughing than
crying.
Her close friends and family remember Caitlyn
as a force with which to be reckoned. She was loud, flamboyant, fun, and seriously, at times, crazy. What they remember most was her underlying faith. Somehow,
through all of her endeavors, she knew she was supported
and guided. She was intelligent, genuine, and honest.
Caitlyn was never ashamed or embarrassed to be herself.
We can all learn to be a little more like Caitlyn: passionate about life and enjoying every moment of it.
Graduation is here, and the seniors are looking
forward to a bright future full of hope and possibility.
Unfortunately, we will not have the pleasure of seeing
Caitlyn walk across the stage on graduation day; she will
never get the opportunity to celebrate the accomplishment
of finishing high school. Cherishing life is the only way
to honor Caitlyn’s. She was Caitlyn Erin Lockard,
“Chelly” to her friends, and forever a part of Cardinal
Gibbons High School’ s Class of 2008.
Carmen Cita
Peterson, a brilliant
2006 alumna and sister
to senior Maggie Peterson, freshman Blake
Peterson, and graduate
Grant Peterson (2004)
was killed by a motorist
while riding her bike on
a trail in Gainesville on
April 8th. She was
struck by a van at 4:55
p.m. while attempting to
cross an intersection.
She was wearing a helmet.
Cita Peterson
Cita was a
1987-2008
gifted student at the University of Florida studying hospitality. Those who knew Cita remember her from
organizations like the Spanish Honor Society, Model United
Nations, and the drama program. Not only was she beautiful, she was smart (top ten in her class), funny, and talented,
too. The very definition of an asset to both academic and
social aspects of life, Cita embodied a zest for simply being
and a spirit that will never be forgotten. Without a doubt,
this alumna, who had recently cut all of her long, blonde
hair on a whim, will be missed each day by those who knew
her.
A wall has been painted in her memory by friends
at the University of Florida that reads, “Fly, fly, Cita. Your
endless journey has begun.” Friends posed, smiling through
teary eyes for pictures in front of their mural, while others
gathered on the beach near Atlantic Boulevard to talk about
the wonderful spirit she embodied so effortlessly. The love
felt for Cita in her many circles, from Cardinal Gibbons, to
UF, to her service fraternity was palpable in a way that
showed no matter where she went, Cita touched the lives of
many.
A celebration of life service was held on May 10th
at St. John the Baptist to celebrate her short but wonderful
life, where family, friends, high school and college classmates, and former teachers reminisced about the girl whose
laugh made days a little brighter and whose smile would
light up a room.
20
Sports
May 23, 2008
Crocco’s Modern Life
By Anthony Finelli
After 39 years of coaching, Ms. Crocco, Head of
the Athletic Department, has retired as head volleyball
coach. This year she was named Florida Dairy Farmers
Girls Volleyball Coach of the Year. On May 1, she was
named Distinguished Alumni at FAU, and this coming July
she will be inducted into the National High School Sports
Hall of Fame in Washington, DC, the most prestigious
award any coach can receive. There is no easy way to describe the vast number of accomplishments and awards that
she has earned over her coaching career: the list goes on
and on!
These are just a few of her achievements. She has
served as the National Chairperson of Volleyball in the US
for the National High School Coaches Association. In 1988,
Miss Crocco was named National High School Athletic
Coaches Association Volleyball Coach of the Year. In May
of 1990, she was named to Florida’s High School Coaches
Hall of Fame. She is the first woman ever to be given this
honor. She has been named Volleyball Coach of the Year
by the State, Miami Herald and Sun-Sentinel dozens of
times, and it is well known that her girls’ volleyball teams
have compiled 18 State Championships.
Miss Crocco humbly stated, “The proudest
Signing Stars
By Staff Writer
Insight
achievement is seeing how our young Scholar-Athletes
develop into incredible young women and men. I am also
so proud how they keep coming back to support the new
Scholar-Athletes in our Cardinal Gibbons family. All the
awards that I have received are not MY awards or accomplishments, they are OUR accomplishments, and I thank
you all who have been part of our program. The players,
parents and friends will be in my heart and memories forever.”
Ms. Crocco is pictured at the awards
ceremony at FAU, where she was named
Distinguished Alumna on May 1st.
sity. Soccer stars Alex Greco and Alexandra Grant signed on
to play at Northwood University (Division II) and Vassar College (Division III) respectively. Volleyball ladies Lindsey
Cheatham and Kathleen Fitzpatrick signed to play for Middle
Tennessee State University (Division I) and Flagler College
(Division II) respectively. Michael Sylvestri signed Division
II with Florida Gulf Coast University’s baseball team and Josh
Nirenberg signed to play Division I basketball with Appalachian State University.
In addition to the largest cast of early football
signers in school history, Cardinal Gibbons had an impressive
number of other athletes who commit to play college sports.
On April 30th in the gym, thirteen more seniors made their
decisions final at the school’s signing day celebration. Four
more football players officially signed to continue their careers, bringing the football signing
total to twelve athletes: David
Blackwell with Iowa University,
Patrick Ferguson with Catholic
University of America, Larry Jackson with Villanova University, and
Kyle Taddei with the University of
New Haven.
Nine athletes from other
sports made final decisions as well.
Swimmers Donald Sutton and Lauren Cuervo both signed Division I
to swim for the University of
Texas and the University of Alabama respectively; Meaghan
Bresnahan will swim for Division
Proud coaches and athletes celebrate their successes on signing day.
III school Johns Hopkins Univer-
Sports
Insight
May 23, 2008
21
Broward Scholar Athletes
By Lauren Cuervo
bons. She has always excelled on the field and in the classroom and will make us all proud as she continues her academics and athletic career at Vassar College,” commented her
coach, Mrs. Flack.
Ariel Urban has been running both cross country and
track, playing basketball, and managing an intense schedule of
classes all four years of high school. With this most hectic of
schedules, she has managed to excel and has decided to attend
the University of Florida this fall. “Ariel has been a threesport athlete for all four years of high school and done a great
job! She will always be remembered as a great student athlete!” said her coach Mr. Lee.
David Bonner has made a name for himself running
cross country and track as one of the top runners on both
teams, has experienced great academic success, and has decided to attend the University of Florida. “David has come
such a long way in four years! He used his intelligence and
dedication to become a great champion runner,” said Mr. Lee.
Andrew Heminger, working his way to varsity status
and maintaining a high GPA, has been a force to reckon with
in the school’s football program. “Andrew works as hard on
the field as he does in the classroom. The scholar athlete title
fits him perfectly. He is well deserving of this honor,” said his
coach Mr. Morrill. Andrew will attend the University of Central Florida in the fall.
After applying for the status of a Broward County
Athletic Association Scholar Athlete, eight of Cardinal Gibbons’ student athletes were awarded the honor. This prestigious accolade recognizes outstanding high school students who
excel not only on the court, field, track, or pool, but also in the
classroom. These outstanding individuals were honored at a
banquet on April 28th for the hard work they have exerted all
four years of high school.
Anna Durie has been a key member of the volleyball
program for four years, helping the squad to win the state title
her junior year, while maintaining a rigorous course load. “I
have always been impressed with her dedication to the sport
and her willingness to be a team player. Her work ethic, service to her school and community, make her one outstanding
individual,” said her coach Ms. Crocco. Anna will attend
Wake Forest University in the fall.
Michael Sylvestri has played Gibbons baseball since
freshmen year and made sure to do his best in both his grades
and athletics, earning him a scholarship to play baseball at
Florida Gulf Coast University. “Michael is one of our most
dedicated, loyal, and hard working student-athletes ever. An
old coach once told me that more than anything, you want
your players to ‘do it the right way.’ Simply stated: Mike Sylvestri does it the right way,” said his coach Mr. Hamilton.
“Meaghan Bresnahan is a pleasure to coach and
teach. Her dedication and hard work has really paid off academically, as well as in the swimming pool,” said Coach
Zmuda. During her four years she has
been a key member of the Varsity Swim
Team, earned herself the status of Valedictorian, and decided to swim for Johns
Hopkins University.
Stephanie Gorman is a fouryear veteran of the girls’ basketball team
and plans to attend the University of
Florida. Her course load has placed her
among the top students in the senior
class and her athletic skills are widely
recognized among students and faculty
alike. “Stephanie has an incredible love
of life and an amazing sense of humor.
Even though the basketball team didn’t
have as successful a year as in the past,
she is a team player and led the team
raising spirits and team morale,” added
her former teacher Mr. Zmuda.
Alex Grant has challenged herself tremendously in the classroom as
well as competed as an elite soccer Scholar athletes (front row, left) Ariel Urban, Alex Grant, Meaghan Bresnahan; (back
player. “Alex is one of those scholar row) Anna Durie, Andrew Heminger, Stephanie Gorman, and Mike Sylvestri are enjoyathletes who will leave a lasting im- ing the BCAA Scholar Athletics banquet.
pression on our team and Cardinal Gib-
22
Sports
May 23, 2008
Volleyball Team Gives
Its All for Nick
Insight
said Assistant Coach, Kathryn Farland, after the emotional
loss. "That is all we can ask for."
Whether he was on the shirts, on the banners, on the hair
ribbons, or in the hearts of the team and the fans, the spirit of
Nick Williams was constantly present.
By Matti Perez-Cubas
Just two days before a game with Archbishop McCarthy, a
game that would determine the Cardinal Gibbons Volleyball
Team's place in the state quarterfinals, valuable player Nick
Williams was injured in a single-car accident. His teammates
were then left with two options: to mourn the loss of Nick's
presence at the game or to play twice as hard to honor him.
Needless to say, they chose the second option, and the
team was triumphant against Archbishop McCarthy. They had
a place in the state quarterfinals that Friday, May 9th.
The game was held at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High
School, and it was against the Spanish River High School
Sharks. Dozens of fans, clothed in red and white, filled the
gymnasium to offer their strong, and loud, support. The Chiefs
started out strong, beating the opposing team in the first game
26-24. Unfortunately, the team's spirit for their beloved injured
player was not enough to win a place in the State Championship after three more intense games, the Sharks won.
The Cardinal Gibbons Volleyball Team ended its season
with the record of 27-2. “They played their hearts out tonight,"
Boys Volleyball Team - District Champions
Sports
Insight
Nick Williams: Responsive
Nick Williams, a junior and a key volleyball
player, has been in critical but stable condition since his
single car accident on May 4th.
A website has been set up to update Nick’s condition . For current updates go to www.carepages.com.
Then click “visit” followed by “sign up” and follow the
directions. The carepage name is Nick Williams (one
word).
What’s All the Racket?
By Rachel Bogdan
The girls’ tennis team finished the season10-2 and the
boys’ were 9-2-1. “I was very pleased with the development
we made as the season progressed,” said Coach Kenoyer. “ We
have quite a few young players on the team and with experience they all improved and gained confidence to play better
and better.”
Freshman player, Laura Wiley, had an outstanding
undefeated season and only lost, 6-1 6-2, in the final round of
Districts to American Heritage's #1 Julie Sabasinski. She was
runner up for the #1 singles tournaments. Erica Aispuro also
performed extremely well, saving 6 match points and coming
back 3-7 to win the pro set 9-7 at one of the matches. At Districts, which took place April 9th-11th, she came in runner up
at the #3 position.
The doubles team of Tommy Cundy and Andrew
Sloan, sophomores, both reached the semi finals of districts,
but lost to the eventual District Champs. “Overall,” Coach
Kenoyer stated, “we did very well at districts this year and had
some very tough competition to get through. We battled really
well against some very good experienced players.”
Other wins this season were the first home game
against Nova High School Gibbons came out victorious in
both boys’ and girls’ matches. This was a great win for Gib-
May 23, 2008
23
Let’s talk baseball
By Shawn Kelaher
The Chiefs were the runners up for the district title,
losing to Key West on May 2nd at the regional semifinals.
The boys’ baseball team played its way through another successful season, finishing with an impressive 21-9 record.
Coach Hamilton, who was assisted by Coaches Montiel, Cy
Angelos, and Tom Hysell, completed his eighth season as
Head Coach. Seniors John Haberlein, Gabby Lima, Nick
Plaster, Addison Bender, Jimmy Zloch, Colin O’Connor, and
Mike Sylvestri will be greatly missed next year.
“Our team peaked at the right time, and even though
we will miss our seniors tremendously, we will return every
pitcher but one and six starters,” said Coach Hamilton.
Play ball!
bons because Nova, which is in a different district, had previously been a tough competitor and this year advanced to the
semi-finals of Regionals. During the season the team also had
wins over Chaminade, which the team lost to last year. Spring
rain caused a draw in this match for the boys. The last match
of the season, against Archbishop McCarthy, was also a successful victory for the boys’ and girls’ squads.
The 2008 Tennis Team
24
Sports
Insight
May 23, 2008
Season Was A Homerun!
By Jennifer Gilday
Cardinal Gibbons Lady Chiefs Softball Team had a
great season this year. Captain, Danielle Lanza, who hopes to
play for FSU in the fall, said that a major reason for their success was, “We had the most solid team out on the field and the
closest one off the field. We didn't go as far as we would've
liked, but I’ll never forget this experience.” Captain Michelle Skaf, who
plans on walking on the UCF team,
said that, “My favorite part about playing for CGHS was feeling like one
family and one team, which helped us
play together as well.”
The girls went 19-7 this season. Lanza said, “My most memorable
moment was two years ago when we
beat our district rivals Archbishop
McCarthy in one of the most intense
softball games I have ever played. It
was the only time out of my 4 years at
CGHS that we made it out of districts.”
Unfortunately, this year the Lady
Chiefs lost to McCarthy at Four Fields
Park to conclude their season. Skaf
said, “This was one of our most successful years, and it was upsetting how
it ended.”
The team roster included: Captains Jessica Lang
(catcher), Danielle Lanza (first base), and Michelle Skaf
(centerfield), Janet Holtfreter (pitcher), Sarah Hoadley
(rightfield), Brianna Deltoro (third base), Kelly Yount (second
base), Brittany Tessier (DH/outfield), Kalynn Foster (outfield),
April Ortenzo (short stop), Molly Macek (second base),
Gianna Sandstrom (leftfield/pitcher), (packup players) Sarah
Johns, Tori Tuminello, Ashley Wilkins, and Danielle McKillen.
Victory smiles on the softball team and coaches.
Hockey WILL SAVOR the
State Championship
By Staff Writer
Many may find themselves bamboozled whilst listening to the third period announcements mention Tony Perrota’s
hat trick at a hockey game the previous evening, but without a
doubt the 2008 season for Gibbons Hockey was certainly a
success.
What the non-rabid hockey fans may not know is that
although the season went swimmingly from the get-go, the
boys ended up losing the district finals to Coral Glades. However, they still qualified to advance to the state tournament
where they emerged victorious above both Coral Glades and
teams from North Florida, before beating Saint Thomas for
the State Title.
Training at Glacier Ice Arena every Wednesday at 6
a.m. certainly paid off in the 3-1 win over our rival, as well as
the ever impressive record of 26-4 for the season. MVPs, according to Captain Sean Pendergast, include Tony Planamento and Kevin Hoy, the two goalies who were outstanding
during the battle royale for the title. Coaches Jim Drotos and
Jim Bakatselos, who gave support as well as time for their
team, are sure to share the same favorite memory as the senior
boys: winning states. Although the skating Chieftains will be
losing the great senior players, this will not be their last victory.
The team and coaches are thrilled with winning the
State Championship.
Sports
Insight
May 23, 2008
Macy Huskey: A Star on the
Run
By Daniel Stark
Freshman Macy Huskey
ran cross country in the beginning of the school year, and followed it up with distance track
when spring came around. She
practices year-round, running
every day, trying to improve
herself all the time.
On April 28th, Macy
shattered a sixteen-year-old
school record for the mile at the
State Championship Meet in
Winter Park.. This was a major
accomplishment, naturally, but
since she is only a freshman, it
was phenomenal. The record
was previously set by Courtney
Macy Huskey
25
Schriever, an alumni of Cardinal Gibbons, class of
1992. Schreiver’s time for the mile was five minutes fifteen
seconds. Macy’s time was five minutes, nine seconds. Coach
Glenn Lee was ecstatic as she crossed the finish line. Macy
won first place, along with several other Cardinal Gibbons
athletes in their respective events.
“I couldn’t believe it. When I saw that time on the
scoreboard, I thought it must have been a mistake. As I was
running, I wasn’t even thinking about that record. Coach Scott
was going crazy when I was coming down the home stretch,
and I just thought he was excited because I was about to win
States. I was so wrong,” Macy said.
Mr. Scott wasn’t the only person to be proud of
Macy. All of her fellow runners were congratulating her, as
well as the other coaches on the team. Mr. Steve Lyons, the
head coach of the Track and Field Team, was especially proud
to have led one of his runners to a state championship. Even
runners that weren’t at the tournament that weekend have gone
out of their way to give Macy a pat on the back.
Since this is only her freshman year, there is much
promise for this young athlete. We haven’t yet seen the best of
Macy Huskey.
26
Sports
May 23, 2008
Insight
Fast Track
By Lauren Cuervo
After a powerful regular track season, the girls finished 9-3 and the boys finished 6-6. The Cardinal Gibbons
track team entered their championship season with a promising
foot forward. At the District Championships, the girls won
their first team title since 1998 and the boys finished 3rd in a
close meet, and there were six individual event winners:
S’Kaylah Woods (100 meter dash), Macy Huskey (1600 meter
run), Alexandria Macedo (3200 meter run), Marchelle Baker
(long jump), Jenna Ludwick (800 meter run), Joe Esposito
(800 meter run). There were also three champion relays girls
4x800 relay and
both the boys and
girls 4x100. Lindsay
Cheatham and Donald Sutton points in
Shot Put and Discus.
With
a
strong district performance under their
belt, the team came
back even better for
the Regional Meet at
which the girls finished an impressive
2nd and the boys
placed 8th after
scoring only one
point last year. Top
finishes that quali(Left to right) Marchelle Baker,
fied for the State S’kaylah Woods, Sharni Butler, and
Finals were Sean Cassie Higgins broke the school rePulver (4th in 3200), cord in the 4 X 100 meter relay.
Jordan Barrios (4th
in the pole vault), S’Kaylah Woods (3rd in the 100), Macy
Huskey (3rd in the 1600), Lauren Leniart (2nd in the high
jump and 3rd in the long jump), Marchelle Baker Regional
Champion in the long jump, the 4th place boys 400 relay, girls
3rd place 3200 relay, and the 2nd place girls 400 relay.
The team then made its first state appearance in two
School Records:
Marchelle Baker-Long Jump
Sharni Butler-200 meter
Macy Huskey-1600 meter
4X800 Relay: Jenna Ludwick, Courtney Perry, Alexandra Macedo and Ariel Urban
4X100 Relay: Marchelle Baker, S’kaylah Woods,
Sharni Butler, Cassie Higgins
State finalists with Head Coach Steve Lynos are smiling after
a great showing at Winter Park.
years at Winter Park. Top finishes were achieved by Jordan
Barrios (in the pole vault); Marchelle Baker and Lauren
Leniart (in the long jump respectively); S’Kaylah Woods (7th
in the 100); Macy Huskey (4th in the 1600); Sean Pulver ( in
the 3200). The girls’ 3200 relay of Jenna Ludwick, Courtney
Perry, Ariel Urban, and Alexandria Macedo broke the school
record; the girls 4X100 meter
relay of Marchelle Baker, S’kaylah Woods, Sharni Butler and
Cassie Higgins broke the school
record twice, and the boys’ 400
relay of Dareyon Chance, Tim
Burton, Orville Reynolds, and
Shawn Corker placed 14th. Both
teams put forth a tremendous
effort and the girls’ team had an
overall 20th place finish in the
State.
“We had a great season,
with the best freshmen girls in
team history, a return to the State Macy Huskey broke the
Meet after two years, and numer- school record in the mile.
ous school records broken. The
coaches couldn’t be more proud,” said Coach Glenn Lee.
(Left) Jenna
Ludwick, Courtney Perry, Ariel
Urban, and Alexandria Macedo
broke the school
record in the
4X800 meter relay.
Insight
Grad Nite
By Anthony Finelli
On April 18,
2008, thousands of seniors from many different schools gathered at
the Magic Kingdom
Park in Walt Disney World for the time-honored tradition
known as Grad Nite. For 8 hours straight, starting at 8:00 PM,
seniors were let loose and had the park all to themselves.
But Grad Nite '08 was not just all about the rides and
Entertainment
May 23, 2008
27
attractions. A slew of other activities faced the seniors to
guarantee that they could party until dawn. Cinderella's castle
was the backdrop for concerts; dance parties, and other festivities were also sprinkled throughout the park. Bands hitting the
main stage included The Last Goodnight, The Red Jumpsuit
Apparatus, Ne-Yo, and who could forget the mind-blowing
performance given by the one and only Cheskob?
Though it seemed at times that the night was getting
the best of us, and all we wanted to do was sleep on the carousel of progress (and it wasn't open; what's up with that?), "Oheight" persevered and really made it a memorable experience.
The night was fun. At the conclusion it seemed as though everyone was a bit disappointed to let it come to an end.
Spotlight On: International Thespian Society & Cappies Critics
By Staff Writer
After the success of Little Women, it seems only natural that the Cardinal Gibbons Drama department would have
its best year ever at the State Thespian Competition. At districts, Maggie Peterson and Alexis Lacman earned a Critics
Choice, the highest rank possible, for their duet, “The Apple
Doesn’t Fall” from The Rink. With high hopes after said win
at the district level, as well as a plethora of superiors and excellent ratings, Troupe 6362 headed to Tampa with five of
their strongest pieces, ready to take on the fierce competition.
The results were more than superior. The thespians
earned an excellent ranking for their ensemble scene, “Disney
Moms Group Therapy” from Parallel Lives, a socio-political
satire on Walt Disney’s pension for leaving girls motherless in
a cruel, critter filled world. The piece starred Stephanie Picon,
Christine D’Amore, Christy Sperazzo, Kathryn Lepine,
Maggie Peterson, Erin Kelley, Morganne Lliteras, and Jackie
Hirsch. A duet scene, “The Wedding Planner”, between Morganne Lliteras and Nick Gereffi earned a superior at the district and a good at the state level, respectively. Maggie and
Alexis once again swept up a superior for their flawless duet,
and “Be My Friend (The Facebook Song)” from Edges earned
a shining superior rating with help from its four characters:
Patrick Harrington, Alexis Lacman, Erin Kelley, and Nick
Gereffi. And earning Cardinal Gibbons its first Critics Choice
ever at the state level, Erin Kelley’s solo “Man of My
Dreams” from Edges delighted the judges and brought the
Troupe to a new standard at the state level.
On a rather fantastic and related note, Cardinal Gibbons’ fall production of HONK! is up for a huge number of
nominations in the South Florida Cappies Critics program.
Maggie Peterson is up for lead actress, Nick Gereffi for comic
actor, male dancer, and senior critic of the year; Erin Kelley
for comic actress and female dancer, Alex White for cameo
actor, Brittney Jacques, Christine D’Amore, and Nicole Tegge
for props; Alexis Lacman, Matti Cubas, Nick Gereffi, Rebecca
Frank, Maggie Peterson, and Christine D’Amore for Cappies
team, “Warts and All” for Best Song in a Musical, and finally,
HONK! for musical of the year. It has certainly been a hectic,
but without a doubt rewarding year for all the thespians.
With director Mark Sheremeta and musical director
Amanda Satchell, as well as set designer Michael Boni as
chaperones at State, and the unofficial “parents” of the drama
family, one of Cardinal Gibbons’ tightest circles stuck together throughout their six days of competition in Tampa. And
with great successes in all of its individual events and scholarship recognition for Christine D’Amore, Erick Crow, and Yodeline Guerrier, CGHS drama, it seems, has certainly brought
itself from a small underdog department, into the coveted
limelight of the South Florida high school theatre circuit.
Bravo!
The “Disney Moms” are (in character, from left to right):
Morganne Lliteras as Betty White, Maggie Peterson as Ethel
Mermaid, Kathryn Lepine as Mrs. Jumbo, Christine
D’Amore as Dr. Kincaid, Jackie Hirsch as Coral Clownfish,
Stephanie Picon as Barbara Rella, Christy Sperazzo as
Dolores Deer, and Erin Kelley as Monique Andthebeast.
28
Entertainment
May 23, 2008
Night of the Arts
By Kristen Jugs
Each year, family and friends come to support the Night of the
Arts when the gym is turned into a stage for students to show their many
talents. On April 4th, the Concert Band, Jazz Band, Chorus, Winter Guard,
Orchestra, Dance Team, and Drama Department all performed to make the
night especially memorable. The event was headed by the Fine Arts Club’s
moderator, Ms. Busby, club president, Katie Scudder, and vice president,
Courtney Wittenburg.
Aldo Paino and Jackie Hirsch’s photographs and a variety of ceramics and artwork were also displayed. Alexis Lacman and Maggie Peterson sang the duet, “The Apple
Doesn’t fall Very Far”, and Eric
Crow also sang a solo. It was another enjoyable evening.
Ms. Bonnie Busby, Night of the
Arts coordinator
Insight
Entertainment
Insight
May 23, 2008
When the Chiefs go
marching in. . .
By Shawn Kelaher
On March 14th, the over 50
members of chorus, band, orchestra,
and guard went to the University of
South Florida in Tampa to perform in
the Heritage Music Festival, which was
held in the college’s auditorium. The
following day, the group spent a very
rainy day at Bush Gardens. After the
park closed, the Heritage Award ceremony was held in one of the park’s
theaters. The CGHS jazz band received
the prestigious Best Band award.
“Despite the inclement weather, the
band, orchestra, and guard performed exceptionally well. I’m extremely pleased with the success
that we owe to the seniors,” said Mr.
Mengersen, head of the Gibbons
Music Department.
This was the last band trip
for the graduating seniors, many of
whom have been a part of the music
program all four years. Senior Austin Johnson, a four-year band member, said, “This trip was so much
fun, but it was sad for me and the all
the seniors since it was our last one.
However, I will always remember
walking soaking wet through the
closed amusement park.”
Help Needed:
The Music Booster Association is
looking for gently used uniforms.
Please bring donations to Cindy Hirsch
in the School Office.
Our next projected sale date is June 10,
the first day of summer school,
from 7:30 a.m.-1:00 p.m.
29
The band members enjoyed a day of fun at
Bush Gardens before the awards ceremony.
Passport to Europe
By Matti Perez-Cubas
A group of seniors recently took education beyond the
classroom....way beyond the classroom. During Easter
break, Mr. Cubas, along with Mr. and Mrs. Morrill, took 21
students to Europe. In 10 full days, they visited Rome, Florence, Tuscany, and Paris, seeing such sights as the Coliseum, Michelangelo's David, Versailles, the Mona Lisa,
and, of course, enjoyed lots of gelato. "It was absolutely
incredible," said Patrick Anderson. "I was surrounded by
places and cultures I have studied my entire life."
Check Edline for updates. For questions
call Susan Galicki @ 561-866-4086.
Law Offices
Cooney, Mattson, Lance, Blackburn
Richards & O’Connor, P.A.
John H. Richards
Attorney At Law
1600 West Commercial Blvd.
Suite 200
P.O. Box 14546
Fort Lauderdale, Fl 33302
Tel (954) 568-6669
FAX (954) 568-0085
E-MAIL: [email protected]
Students in Paris! The group was lucky enough to stop in
Paris, Rome, Florence and Tuscany.
30
Entertainment
May 23, 2008
Little Women Proved to be
“Astonishing”
By Matti Perez-Cubas
Congratulations to the Cardinal Gibbons Drama Department for another sensational production! Following the hilarious Honk last fall, the talented group decided to take on the
more dramatic musical Little Women.
The plot revolves
around aspiring author
Jo, played wonderfully
by Maggie Peterson,
and her three sisters.
The romantic sister,
Meg, played by Erin
Kelley, longs to get
married and have a
family. The sweetest
sister, Beth, played by
Christy Sperazzo,
teaches Jo courage and
the way to move on.
The youngest sister, Nick Gereffi asks Maggie Peterson
Amy, played by to “take a chance” on him.
Shelby Vicino in Act 1
and Kathryn Lepine in Act 2, just wants to be grown up. All
the while, mother Marmee, played by Alexis Lacman, tries her
best to hold the family together while her husband is fighting
in the Civil War. All of these actresses did a superb job with
both performing and creating a loving and dedicated family.
Also deserving of accolades are Nick Gereffi as Laurie, the
Insight
boy living next door, who desperately longs to be part of the
March family, and Erick Crow
as Professor Bhaer, the quiet
man who eventually falls for
the spirited Jo and inspires her
to finally settle down.
The show was directed by
Mr. Sheremeta, and his wife,
Amanda Satchell, served as the
Musical
Director.
The impressive set created
by Michael Boni, and
the beautiful costumes designed and made by Linda
Sheremeta, effectively por- Christine D’Amore and Erick
Crow
trayed the era.
Little Women was certainly
a great closing production
for graduating seniors
Erick Crow, Maggie Peterson, Kathryn Lepine,
Aldo Paino, Erin Kelley,
Alexis Lacman, Nick Gereffi, Stephanie Picon,
Christine D'Amore, Morganne Lliteras, and stage
director Brittney Jacques.
We look forward to seeing
what this talented
group will do in their future endeavors, both on
Three of the four March sisters:
and off stage!
Christy, Erin, and Shelby
Teacher Appreciation Week
May 5-9
(Left to right) Christy Sperazzo, Erin Kelley, Alexis Lacman,
Maggie Peterson, Shelby Vicino as the March women, are
reading a letter from their father, a soldier in the Civil War.
Student Leadership under the supervision of Mrs. Hanke, and the administration teamed up during Teacher Appreciation Week to show their gratitude to
the staff. Faculty members received Barnes and Nobel gift certificates, agendas,
and a luncheon.
One of the teachers summed it up
best, “It is always nice to be remembered.
Thank you all so much.”
Entertainment
Insight
May 23, 2008
31
Know Football?
By Nick Dimov
University of Florida-
1.Knights
Florida State University-
2.Tigers
University of Miami-
3.Buckeyes
University of Central Florida-
4.Trojans
Florida Atlantic University
Florida International University-
5.Golden Panthers
6.Chiefs
University of Georgia-
Find the corresponding letters of the numbers you got for your
answers and you should reveal a secret message!
1=P
10=H
2=A
11=P
3=U
12=N
4=D
13=0
7.Seminoles
5=G
14=R
Louisiana State University-
8.Sooners
6=8
15=T
University of Southern California-
9.Bulls
7=A
16=Y
Ohio State University-
10.Gators
8=I
17=A
West Virginia University-
11.Hurricanes
9=O
University of Texas-
12.Hokies
University of Oklahoma-
13.Wolverines
University of South Florida-
14.Bulldogs
___ ___ ___ ___ ___
Virginia Tech-
15. Longhorns
___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___
University of Michigan-
16.Owls
Cardinal Gibbons-
17.Mountaineers
MESSAGE:
____ ___
Senioritis: Until There’s A Cure
By Adrienne Tegreeny
it’s not like the seniors are
TRYING to slack off.
It’s just. . .
32
May 23, 2008
Candyland
Class of 2008
Insight
By Justine D’Addio
Prom 2008, the most highly
anticipated dance of high school, took
place on April 27th at the lavish Pier 66
hotel. Numerous teachers participated
in the event and greeted the students as
they arrived. Mr. Cubas took pictures of
the well-dressed teenagers so that they
will be able to remember the magical
night.
Prom Court: Marissa Prieto (left), Peter Ferencik, Mary Mullen, Michael Balakonis,
Queen Kathryn Lepine, King Shane Connelly, Jackie Barreras, Logan Wright, Emily
Morill, and Ross Carter.
The glamorous attendees en
tered the ballroom to discover
“Candyland.” Each table was decorated
with colorful lollipops, chocolate treats,
candy balloons, and a chocolate fountain
with all sorts of delectable snacks.
Mr. Cubas announced the Class
of 2008’s Prom King and Queen: Shane
Connelly and Kathryn Lepine. Immediately after dinner was served, the dance
floor was packed with students ready to
enjoy the night.
The seniors had waited four
years to attend this extravagant event,
and it was nothing short of a major success. All of the hard work put into the
event by the Junior Class and Mr. Cubas
made it possible for the seniors to enjoy
their final high school dance and create a
lasting memory.
Class of 2008 Top Ten Students
Having excelled academically all four years of high school, these students were named the Top Teen for the Class
of 2008. Their Grade Point Averages range from 4.76-4.95. These students are to be commended for their excellent study habits and
effort. They are pictured below in random order.
Matt Eisel
University of Florida
Scott Gereffi
University of Florida
Meaghan Bresnahan
Johns Hopkins
Katie Bocksel
University of Miami
Morganne Lliteras
University of Florida
Stephanie Picon
Dartmouth University
Kristen Jugs
University of Florida
Marissa Prieto
University of Florida
Reza Handley-Namavar
Georgetown University
Andres Navarro
University of Florida