Sunny Stories 2014 - Barnegat Township School District

Sunny Stories 2014
Barnegat
High School
“A Fun Day in NJ” becomes senior success
Volume 10
Issue 8
Advisor
Mrs. Croft
Editors-in-chief
Matthew Aberle
Charles Laverty
Tori Sullivan
Reporters/Photographers
Matthew Paulie Aberle
Jacqlyn Buscio
Kerry Butler
Siobhan Flynn
Ashley Hall
Olivia Hogan
Alexandra Kern
Charles Laverty
Justin Leon
Rebecca Muller
Gillian Murray
Tori Sullivan
By Jacqlyn Buscio
On Friday, May 9, the senior class held a gift auction called “A
Fun Day in NJ” at Saint Mary’s Parish Center in Manahawkin.
They were able to raise money for Project Graduation which is
being held at Madame Tussauds the night of graduation. Senior
class advisor, Ms. Thomson, took a lot of her time since October
to put together this fabulous event.
“This year’s seniors really wanted to do something different, and they researched that the best way to make the most money was through a gift auction—so with a little work, we were able
to pull it off,” Thomson said.
There were over 180 gifts that were auctioned off from a
ShopRite gift card to an Xbox One. The favorites of the items
were the designer bags, such as Kate Spade and Coach. There were
even a few Alex and Ani bracelets hidden in a secret designer bag.
Some of the baskets were even made by our own senior class homerooms. They ranged from a gardening set to a dorm survival kit, which included a mini fridge and was won by senior Hannah Glen.
“I felt very excited and I can’t wait to use it in college,” Glen said.
By creating the baskets, it turned into a competition to see which homeroom will be going to
Project Graduation for free. The winner was Mrs. Sellers’ homeroom. By holding the auction, the
senior class fundraised enough money to make Project Graduation cheaper so more students will be
able to go.
I was able to go to the auction which gave me firsthand experience at all of the exciting, behind-the-scenes preparation before the doors opened up at 6:30. The last minute preparation was
overwhelming, but it turned out to be a great night. I was selling concessions and it was another successful way we made money. There was even free coffee and cake that was donated. There were over
200 people that night, making the auction a success. The senior class made more money than expected, and we can’t wait to see all of the fun Project Graduation has to offer.
Disney proves to be magical for seniors
By Rebecca Muller
The four days spent in the magical world of Disney proved to be truly memorable for this year’s senLayout and Design
Alex Kern
Website Manager
Rebecca Muller
Inside This Issue
Cheerleading
Champ
Page 2
Outfit of
the Month
Page 3
Classes from
the Past
Page 4
iors. For some it was a chance to return and experience the magic a second time, but for senior Garrett
Waszkiewicz it was his first time to enjoy everything Disney World has to offer such as rides, shows,
fireworks, and traditions.
Brianne Lombardi was happy to get a break from school to bond with the people in her grade
somewhere other than class. “There really wasn’t a minute that someone was unhappy,” Lombardi said.
She enjoyed being spontaneous every day, but her favorite day was the one spent in Universal Studios
because she had never been there and she said it was a blast.
Before leaving for Disney, Carissa Shearer expected the trip would be fun, but did not expect it
to be as memorable as it proved to be. Her favorite part of the trip was going on the Monster’s Inc.
Laugh Floor in Magic Kingdom. Shearer has been to Disney many times before so she took the role as
the leader of her group. She had a good sense of how long they would wait for certain rides and how to
make the best of their time.
Connor Ross really liked how the chaperones gave the
seniors a lot of free time. “I liked hanging out with new people
that I don’t usually talk to that much,” Ross said.
Waszkiewicz’s first time in Disney proved to be a success. He was most excited to see the fireworks show at night
which he thought was amazing. The third day on the trip was the
sunniest and Waszkiewicz liked that day the most because he
and his friends were able to accomplish a lot. “Disney is such a
memorable experience especially with your friends,” Waszkiewicz said.
The senior trip to Disney brought friendships closer,
made new friendships, and gave the graduating seniors memories
they can take with them.
Skye Cotler, face of Barnegat Cheerleading
By Kerry Butler
Barnegat’s 2013-2014 cheer season was led by senior captain Skye Cotler due to her exceptional leadership skills. Since her freshman
year in 2010, Cotler has been key to the success of the Barnegat Competition and Sideline cheer team. “Skye has improved tremendously since then, becoming one of the best and most technical flyers to come through our program,” said Barnegat Cheer coach Mrs.
Smith.
Since the age of four, Cotler participated in soccer and basketball, but cheerleading came the most naturally to her. After years
of repetition and continuous hard work she has now mastered double ups and a standing tuck. “Her desire to never give up is one
thing the Barnegat Cheerleading team is going to miss next year,” younger sister and teammate Summer Cotler said. Skye has helped
coach Summer, a sophomore, to become a better cheerleader and to take on the legacy of cheerleading their family has.
During Cotler’s last season with her cheer family, the team accomplished
the most any team had in the past. As a team they received four 1st place medals including the NJ State Championship along with 2nd and 3rd place medals in competitions. Their biggest accomplishment was hitting a perfect routine, placing 3rd in the
nation at the National High School Cheerleading Championship for the fourth time
in school history. Without Cotler’s encouragement and stand-out talent, the 2014
cheerleading team wouldn’t have been as successful. Cotler’s last words of encouragement to her team are to “push yourself when things are hard, you will overcome
it and it will only make you better in the end.”
Cotler’s coachable attitude and true passion for the sport has made it easy
for her to lead her team to the National High School Cheerleading Championship.
“Over the years, I became more confident and I learned to trust myself through the
experience and skill I obtained,” she said. Cotler will be continuing her cheerleading career at Rutgers University, competing in the Big
Ten Conference starting June 8. She is ready to start a journey with her new cheer family, the Scarlet Knights.
“Skye will bring her leadership, fun personality, and flying skills to Rutgers University,” Coach Smith said. “I am sad to see
her leave our program.”
Houlahan connects with his students
By Charles Laverty
During the 2012-2013 school year, a man named Mr. Houlahan began student teaching at our school, but this was not the first nor
would it be the last time he was here. The first time he was here he was very successful as part of BHS’ first graduating class in 2008.
Growing up, Mr. Houlahan always wanted to be a math teacher even though he would occasionally look in other directions.
He became a certified middle and high school teacher at Stockton College. After he completed his student teaching at BHS, Houlahan
was delighted to find out that a position opened up. However, it was not that simple for him as he discovered the interview was scheduled at the same time as his honeymoon. Mr. Houlahan contacted our principal, Mr. Nichol, who generously allowed him to do the
interview the day of his return. After being interviewed by several different parties, Mr. Houlahan impressed them enough to get the
position.
Being a teacher was not Houlahan’s first time as a leader. He was also the co-captain of our school’s volleyball team as a student which taught him valuable lessons. “Every experience will affect you as you grow,” Houlahan said.
As a student teacher of Mrs. Quick’s he did very well. “He has grown as a teacher,” she said. Quick also feels that one of
Houlahan’s biggest strengths is being able to connect with his students. In addition to knowing Houlahan as a teacher, Mrs. Quick
had him as a math student for four years, so she has really gotten to witness his growth in mathematics.
Staff members’ careers started on different paths
By Gillian Murray
Staff members at BHS were not always a part of this school. Before their current career, they went through a path of interesting jobs
that are unlike your typical career.
Before your teachers and librarian became who they are now, they began their journeys with diverse experiences. By stepping
on a path that was unlike everyone else’s, they are able to stand above the rest of the crowd and have an amusing story to tell their
students and colleagues. The stories about their lives during this job is a great topic to discuss with your teacher!
“I was an administrative assistant for a company that managed actors and actresses in New York City and California.” – Mrs. Ray,
librarian
“I used to do ‘Hooked on Fishing, Not on Drugs.’ It’s a program to get kids involved in an activity they can concentrate their efforts
on instead of doing bad stuff.” – Mr. Majewski, science teacher
“I worked as a tuxedo fitter at Smalls in the mall.” – Mrs. Malek, English teacher
“I worked in a mental institution.” – Ms. Paulson, English teacher
“I sold cemetery plots.” – Mrs. Koratzanis, HSPA prep teacher
“I’ve been a bouncer at Karma.” – Mr. Aviles, English teacher
“I sold wood for a while and worked for child protective services.” – Mr. Keffner, English teacher
“I was a program director for a child summer camp.” – Mrs. Debari, theater teacher
“I worked in photography and graphic design.” – Ms. Cherry, math teacher
“I was on a workout show called Daily Burn on MTV.” – Mrs. Clerico, health teacher
“At one point I was studying to be a priest and I spent years in a seminary.” – Mr. Pandolfo, Italian teacher
“I was a beach badge checker and then I worked with blueberry and cranberry fungus at Rutgers.”- Mrs. Connors, science teacher
R
May Outfit of the Month
By Alexandra Kern
This edition of Outfit of the Month highlights a fashionable student who is near and dear to my heart:
BHS freshman and my sister, Andrea Kern. Andrea was seen on May 13 wearing a full length blue floral
maxi skirt from T.J. Maxx with a white eyelet lace top from Hollister. She accessorized her outfit with a pair
of white gladiator sandals and an arm of Alex and Ani bracelets, her favorite accessory.
Andrea says that her style has definitely changed over the course of her freshman year. Her favorite stores to shop in are Hollister, Charlotte Russe, and Forever 21. Her favorite trend right now is maxi
skirts and her favorite thing to wear is a sundress. Andrea gets her fashion inspiration from YouTuber
Bethany Motta and from her sister, yours truly.
Andrea’s style is perfect for summer. Long, loose fitting skirts and flowy dresses are perfect for
warm days and floral prints are always trendy for summertime. Maxi skirts like Andrea’s can be found at
tons of stores like Mandees, T.J. Maxx, PacSun, Tilly’s, and Charlotte Russe. Her Alex and Ani bracelets are
very popular and make great gifts. Her newest edition, a silver April birthstone bracelet with a Mickey
Mouse charm, was a birthday gift from me, which I purchased in Disney on the Senior Trip. They can be
found at many jewelry stores and online at alexandani.com.
Because she likes to keep up with current trends, Andrea predicts that her style will be totally different by her senior year of high school. As for a future career, there is a possibility that she could be doing something involving fashion, but she’s keeping her options open.
Even though this is the last edition of Outfit of the Month for this year, keep up with current trends and always dress your
best, BHS!
BHS student pursues future in music therapy
By Matthew Paulie Aberle
As we approach the end of another school year, seniors are beginning to direct all of their focus on their
future. While some may not be completely sure what they want to do, Rachel Nokes has a specific goal in
mind. Upon graduating Barnegat High School, Nokes plans on majoring in music therapy.
This therapeutic practice incorporates expressive exercises through all categories of music
to help clients improve their health in some way. “It gets the patient involved and allows them to express
emotion,” Nokes said. This form of therapy primarily helps patients with their cognitive functioning, motor
and social skills, emotional development, and overall quality of life. There are different activities for each
behavior based around both instruments and vocals. It has been proven to help those with mood disorders,
heart disease, neurological disorders, and psychiatric disorders. “I think [what she’s going to college for] is
amazing and that she’s perfect for it,” senior Marissa Landron said. Landron is a close friend of Nokes and
she does her best to keep her confidence up by reminding her how good she is at what she does.
According to Nokes, this a growing field and she can’t wait to join it.
She first heard about it through her cousin’s friend who has a graduate degree in music Rachel Nokes showcased her musical talent at Cabaret
Night on January 16 alongside Breanna Dunn.
therapy. She then decided this would be the perfect profession for her since she not
only loves music, but enjoys helping people as well and had originally planned on going
into psychology. “Being so involved with music [at BHS] made me realize how important it is in my life,” Nokes said. During her four
years here, she’s been a part of select choir and all three band classes the school offers: symphonic, jazz, and marching.
With experience playing both guitar and piano as well as singing, she plans on pursuing a music therapy degree at Immaculata
College in Malvern, Pennsylvania. From there, she can then go into private practice under her own company name while also giving
voice and piano lessons on the side to those eager to learn. Best of luck to Nokes in accomplishing the goals she’s put in front of herself and obtaining success in the music therapy field!
April Roar Ticket Winners
May Roar Ticket Winners
Homework Passes:
Homework Passes:
Madison Birch
Kerianne Szewczyk
Amber Alexander
Victoria Santiago
Sam Isidoro
Emma Lloyd
Jon Trapkin
Grace Rochette
Nik Fraim
Gabby Romeo
Wawa Gift Cards:
Wawa Gift Cards:
Mitchell VanHorn
Mary Rawley
Breanna Dunn
Fatihah Muhammad
Kylie Rolston
Sam Bower
Shawna Anderson
Bridget Steeb
iPod Shuffle:
iPod Shuffle:
Maria Lencki
Sara Ridgway
Memorable classes from the past
By Siobhan Flynn
You might choose your favorite class by the peers in it, the teacher, or even the subject being taught, but no matter how you choose,
every year there is that one class that you can’t wait for. You love going to it and you’re sad when the year comes to an end. The following are the classes that will be most missed when these seniors graduate:
“Mr. Doviak’s history class, sophomore year. His class was a mixture of an awesome teacher, good friends, and interesting topics.”
– Jonathan Freeman
“Mrs. Mooney’s AP Biology class, junior year. I’m going to Stockton for nursing and it has a lot of biology in it and it was cool at the
end of the year when we got to dissect a cat.” – Brooke Manfredi:
“Mr. Bonk’s Introduction into Engineering, junior year. I got to build mechanisms that actually performed tasks and it was cool to
know that I could actually do that.” – Matty Grobelny
“Mrs. Infurna’s Personal Finance class, sophomore year. It taught me how to do everyday life tasks and that’s not something you get
out of every class.” – Garrett Waszkiewicz
“Mrs. Woolsoncroft’s Puzzles and Problem Solving, junior year. I had fun and it taught me problem solving skills that I will use for the
rest of my life.” – Taylor Teliszewski
“Mr. Smith’s U.S. History I, sophomore year. He made it really easy to understand and I don’t really like history to begin with.”
– Andrea Alleyne
“Ms. Schuler’s AP Studio Art, senior year. Ms. Schuler created a relaxing environment that helped me reach my artistic potential.”
– Maura Daley.
“Mr. Oravets’ gym class, junior year. He made gym fun and made everyone participate.” – Steph Kostka
Summer jobs come waving in
By Justin Leon
What’s better than money in your pocket and a fun job giving you that money? Many BHS students have summer jobs and they
seem to love them. There are many jobs to choose from, whether it’s on Long Beach Island, in town, or by the bay. This year’s summer jobs are quickly being filled though. Nick DeGennaro, Kim Pepenella, and Parker Teliszewski are just some of the people filling
those jobs.
Sophomore Nick DeGennaro has an interesting job working on his father’s charter boat doing labor, driving the boat, and
cleaning. All that work seems worth it though because he receives 20 dollars per trip plus tips. His hours are either 5 to 11 in the
morning or 1 to 6 in the afternoon. DeGennaro doesn’t mind the schedule because he is allowed to choose his own hours and has
flexible freedom with the job. “I would like to keep this job regularly at least until I graduate high school,” DeGennaro said. It doesn’t
look like a bad job, considering the most difficult thing to do on the job “is to get a fishing hook out of your hand.” Besides that, according to DeGennaro, the best parts of it include it being local and “[getting] to be on the water all the time seeing either the sunrise
or sunset,” he said.
DeGennaro isn’t the only one with a fascinating job. Sophomore Parker Teliszewski is a lifeguard for Long Beach Township.
He only has one day off a week and gets paid around $11.75 an hour from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. He would like to keep the job for every
summer, “following [his] siblings’ footsteps.” The reason Teliszewski wakes up at 7 in the morning almost every day in the summer is
because he wants to “buy [his] own car, save up money, and keep the decent pay this job offers.” Being on the beach is his favorite
part of the job and it seems to outweigh the difficulties of it. Past experience in jobs can be very important, and Teliszewski was a
beach badge checker on LBI, so he is confident in knowing the area.
Another summer worker is senior Kim Pepenella who works at Amity Acres Day Camp. Pepenella works the zip lines and
rock walls there and along with that she gets a small amount over minimum wage because of her certification in those areas. The camp
works for nine weeks in the summer, but this year she is only working five of them. She works five days a week from 8:30 a.m. to 5
p.m. The application process for her was to be CPR certified and then a normal packet to fill out. “I’ve been working there for about
four years and it’s a lot of fun working with kids and being their role model, which is the best part of my job!” she said. She went to
the same camp as a child and knew that as she got older she would want to help out and work there. Even though she loves her job,
she says the hot summer days are the worst. “It’s all worth it,” she said.
What TV show caught your attention as a kid?
By Tori Sullivan
Twitter and the entertainment world have been abuzz lately: Word got out that the creators of the ‘90s comedy Boy Meets World were
developing a continuation of the beloved show from a new perspective. Reportedly, Girl Meets World will follow the life of power couple Corey and Topanga Matthew’s daughter and her life, the same way the original told the story about Corey. The pilot will premiere
Friday, June 27 at 9:45 p.m. on the Disney Channel. My excitement for this new show sparked my interest in other’s favorite childhood TV shows. Here’s what BHS watched as kids.
“Barney because I was obsessed with Baby Bop when I was little.” —Alyssa Shaffery, senior
“Sesame Street, I watch it with my niece now.” —Everett McNulty, freshman
“Lizzie McGuire, it showed me what school would be like.”—Marissa Bernstein, sophomore
“Spongebob because it was funny!” –Dennis Sullivan, freshman
“Full House, I felt like I could relate to it and it had great family values.” –Kyle Buaya, junior
“Jimmy Neutron, it was a classic!” –Bryan DiCandia, freshman
“Courage the Cowardly Dog, it’s awesome,”—Adam Farber, freshman
“The Muppets, I’d watch it every day as a kid!”—Sam Bigelow, junior
“That’s So Raven because I liked how she was always independent!”—Roxy Urso, freshman