FOLLOW US ON Romance in the 6-7 Shooting for 11 age of Snapchat victory Social Media Does Snapchat stunt Girls basketball team @lhslighthouse healthy relationships? prepares for playoffs. The Lighthouse Vol. XXXII, No. 4 Lyndhurst High School: 400 Weart Avenue, Lyndhurst, NJ 07071 February 2019

One year after Parkland shooting, #NeverAgain message lives on

Photo by Joana Kapaj Senior Elena Perez delivers a speech to LHS students on National Student Walkout Day on March 14, 2018.

By Alexa Maddi one school,” Perez said. “The walkout was LHS safety and security, such as mov- still room for improvement. Staff Writer to make it very clear that our generation ing the student entrance to Weart Avenue “I think there should be a third securi- had enough.” where there is more space and hiring two ty guard hired. Since there are two main When someone mentions Feb. 14, what She said she was sick and tired of learn- retired police offi cers as security guards. entrances, one guard should be at one do you think of? Many would reply with ing about tragedies such as the Parkland “Any time there’s a tragedy in a school, door, the second guard at the other door, Valentine’s Day, picturing a bouquet of shooting and only hearing “thoughts and we take a look at what we’re doing here while the third one walks around,” Snyder red roses or a heart-shaped box of choc- prayers” as a response. and always try to fi nd ways to improve,” said. “After a certain amount of time, they olates. However, for students at Marjory “Thoughts, prayer and empathy rheto- Vuono said. “I’m a mom, and I send my should switch positions so we have them Stoneman Douglas High School in Park- ric will not change a thing,” Perez said. kids off to school too, and just like I hope constantly moving and protecting entranc- land, Florida, that date has taken on a very “Parkland was a tipping point, one where they’re as safe and secure as possible, I es and exits of the school.” different meaning. the youth of America said ‘enough.’ Being want to make sure you guys are as well.” Since the security guards are retired po- On Feb. 14, 2018, 19-year-old gun- silent is being complicit, and it was time She said some students view rules pro- lice offi cers with over 30 years of experi- man Nikolas Cruz opened fi re at Marjory for our voices to be heard.” hibiting entry into the school without an ID ence, Snyder said he believes they should Stoneman Douglas High School, killing 17 History teacher Mr. Tessalone said while be carrying a weapon. students and staff members and injuring 17 he supported the walkout, by defi nition, it He said Parkland has changed the way he others. It became the deadliest shooting at was not a true walkout because it was ap- “Parkland was a tipping thinks about being a teacher in the sense a high school in United States history, sur- proved by LHS’ administrators. that he takes his responsibilities a lot more passing the 1999 Columbine High School “There should technically be a conse- point, one where the youth seriously. massacre in Colorado, which left 13 dead. quence to a walkout. A walkout shouldn’t of America said ‘enough.’” “When I see someone a little upset or Following the shooting, 20 student survi- be easy. If you’re given a free pass to walk see something potentially developing, I vors created an organization called Never out, everyone is going to do it if it’s a defi nitely try to be proactive and resolve it Again MSD, known as #NeverAgain on chance to go outside,” Tessalone said. or use of emergency doors as unnecessary. before it’s too late,” Snyder said. social media, to demand stronger gun laws He said Parkland, along with other shoot- Yet, as principal, Vuono said she takes Perez said it is important to keep working to prevent similar shootings from happen- ings, made him realize schools are not as these precautions seriously. to end school violence. ing in the future. safe as he thought. “Before any academics or extracurricular “The message I’d send to Parkland on The #NeverAgain movement inspired “I, of course, remember the shooting at activities that are happening in this build- this anniversary is that you don’t just have many schools, including LHS, to partic- Columbine very vividly. School shootings, ing, we put the students’ safety fi rst. Every- our love, our sympathy, our prayers. You ipate in a National School Walkout on unfortunately for me as a 32-year-old man, thing we do is with this in mind,” Vuono have our action,” Perez said. “We will not March 14. have been in the news and very present said. remember silently and do nothing as we At LHS, seniors Elena Perez and Ruby since the late ’90s,” Tessalone said. Public speaking teacher Mr. Snyder said wait for the next lives to be cut short. We Rodrigues led the walkout for their peers. Principal Ms. Vuono said over the years, while he believes the security changes will work to ensure that others will not en- “The walkout was not about LHS or any she has made multiple changes to enhance have made a positive difference, there is dure the same trauma and pain.” Placing 3rd in Bergen County, Mock Trial Team makes history By Carina Paserchia Justice Center, more commonly Managing Editor referred to as the Bergen County Courthouse, in Hackensack. The Mock Trial Team complet- Ms. DiMaggio, who has been ed its season after the preliminary coaching the Mock Trial Team rounds with a third place fi nish since its creation in 2011, divid- among the 26 competing schools ed the group into two teams that within Bergen County. had to be prepared to argue both Winning trials against Leonia, on the side of the plaintiff and de- Lodi and New Milford High fense. Schools, the team’s members Preparation for these competi- progressed to the quarterfi nals, tions began in the fall, with team where they lost against Northern members meeting four times a Highlands High School. week to practice. At these prac- The Mock Trial Team consists tices, they were mentored by of 15 members who play the roles DiMaggio as well as attorneys Photo from Mock Trial Team of attorneys and witnesses in sim- Ken Porro and James Shovlin, The Mock Trial Team competes against New Milford High School on Jan. 23 at the Bergen County Justice ulated trials, which all took place who volunteered their time to of- Center in Hackensack. This year, the club won all three of its trials. last month at the Bergen County CONTINUED ON PAGE 3 The Lighthouse

2 School nEWS February 2019 Blast from the

Photos by Joana Kapaj past Class of 2018 graduates Jared Gabriel, Bernie Consalvo, Megan Starrett and Kelly Weckstein (left to right) discuss their college experiences at a journalism panel on Jan. 10.

for two semesters. briel said. ceptance into the art program, but The Lighthouse alumni return Also a biology major, Gabri- Weckstein, who studies anima- I also got to continue doing what el is studying at Villanova Uni- tion and illustration at Montclair I love at a D3 level, which is just versity in Pennsylvania. He said State University, agreed that a the perfect [fi t] for me,” Weck- to share insights about college his favorite part about Villanova great way to get a break from stein said. is the small campus, which has a academics is by getting involved Like Weckstein, Starrett is a By Iris Gonzales Another tip Consalvo offered total undergraduate enrollment of on campus. She is a member freshman at Montclair. Currently, Staff Writer was to get a tutor. 6,966 students, according to the of Montclair’s cross country as her major is undecided, but she is “At the beginning of my semes- university’s website. well as indoor and outdoor track leaning towards earning a degree Former members of The Light- ter, I struggled a little. I got a 68 “Having a small campus makes teams. in English or psychology. house visited LHS on Jan. 10 to on my fi rst chemistry test, so I it feel more like home, and every- “I practice fi ve to six times a “I decided to take my freshman address students in Ms. Pastor’s decided to get the help of a teach- one is pretty much a family. That week, which may seem like a year [to] feel out [and] test the journalism classes. er’s assistant, and since then, my is one of the reasons I decided to lot, but as long as you enjoy it, different things I’m interested in The alumni panel consisted of grades have progressively gotten attend,” Gabriel said. you can even use it as a way to and fi gure out what I really want last year’s editor-in-chief Bernie better,” Consalvo said. He said one way he deals with relieve stress from schoolwork,” to major in,” Starrett said. “I was Consalvo, managing editor Jared He has had both the commut- the stress of his classes is by tak- Weckstein said. “You’ll also get put in all the general education Gabriel, staff writer Megan Star- er and the dorming experience. ing time to travel off campus. to meet and interact with new courses, so I was pretty stressed rett and artist/staff writer Kelly During the summer, as part of “My school’s about 20 to 30 people, go to different places for out my whole fi rst semester.” Weckstein, each of whom shared the Educational Opportunity Pro- minutes away from Philadelphia, games or meets, and although not Starrett opted not to join any ex- tips for success and discussed the gram, he took classes and lived in and I like to go explore the city easy, managing school and ath- tracurricular activities during her struggles of adapting to life after a dorm. However, to save mon- every once in a while,” Gabriel letics is very much attainable and fi rst semester so she could con- high school. ey, he started commuting from said. “College is not only about worth the experience.” centrate on academics. Consalvo, who is a freshman Lyndhurst at the start of the fall studying and getting your degree She said Montclair was not one “You need to be committed and majoring in biology at Seton Hall semester. but also about living great and of her top choices for college, but put an extra amount of hours and University in South Orange, said Consalvo said he prefers living fun experiences.” she decided to go there because effort in,” Starrett said. college differs from high school in a dorm over commuting be- Gabriel said he coped with the the tuition was far less than that She said this can be diffi cult, because it requires a greater de- cause staying on campus allows stress of challenging classes by of the art schools she was consid- especially when trying to balance gree of motivation and a profound students to be more involved in fi lling up his remaining hours ering. schoolwork with a job and social sense of responsibility to meet activities and more frequently at- with extracurricular clubs, volun- While she had reservations life. rigorous deadlines. tend sporting events. However, he teering opportunities and sports. about choosing Montclair, Weck- “Not to scare anyone, but col- “You have to be able to study said the advantage of commuting “I [tend] to procrastinate and stein said she had a fantastic fi rst lege is a big wake up call,” Star- and submit your work on time is that students can avoid paying stress more when I have a lot of semester and has no regrets about rett said. “The work is intense. because you’re not going to get for a residence hall which, ac- free time, so I ended up joining enrolling in the university. In high school, you can get away slack from anyone,” Consalvo cording to Seton Hall’s website, as many clubs and sports that I “Honestly, it blew away my ex- with [minimal studying], but not said. ranges from $6,202 to $16,746 could and was interested in,” Ga- pectations. Not only did I get ac- in college.” Mother of cyberbullying victim shares her son’s story with students By Nazli Tiyaloglu Clementi said cyberbullying is a speaker to bring to LHS because Junior Sinan Fidan said Clem- Managing Editor pervasive problem. According to Clementi was highly infl uential enti reminded him that victims a 2016 poll conducted by the Ty- in the passage of anti-bullying of bullying do not always reveal In anticipation of No Name- ler Clementi Foundation in part- laws and policies. their pain. He said Clementi was Calling Week, guest speaker Jane nership with AT&T, 80 percent of “We want people to know that successful in conveying her mes- Clementi visited LHS on Jan. 17 New York City teens know some- it’s okay to be who you are. It’s sage. to talk to sophomores and juniors one who has been the victim of okay for you to have a mental “They saw this as an actual real about the effects of cyberbullying. cyberbullying, and 48 percent had health issue. It’s okay for you to life situation, not a hypothetical In an hour-long presentation experienced cyberbullying fi rst- be different than others,” Leide- scenario. When Jane explained in the gym, Clementi told the hand. Of the teens who had been mer said. “We need to raise an her feelings and how everything story of her youngest son Tyler, cyberbullied, 59 percent did not awareness that you need to be ac- played out [for Tyler], I think it who was a freshman at Rutgers tell their parents. cepting of people.” touched a lot of my friends,” Fi- University when he committed “Being bullied does hurt at the Leidemer said cyberbullying dan said. suicide in 2010. time that you are experiencing can have an even larger impact He said it is important to cele- Eighteen-year-old Tyler end- it, and it can often lead to lasting than verbal bullying. brate diversity and support kind- ed his life by jumping off the painful emotional scars as well as “It gives a false sense of power ness. George Washington Bridge after physical scars,” Clementi said. to people,” Leidemer said. “They “We live in America, which is his roommate Dharun Ravi used She said her main goal is to let click ‘send,’ and it posts the com- known as a melting pot among a webcam without Tyler’s knowl- students know change is possible. ment…. [For] that person on the people. Everyone is different in edge to stream his sexual encoun- “If you stay in that dark place receiving end, that’s there forev- some way shape or form, and the ter with another male. by yourself, you just spiral deeper er.” fact that we all are here should be This tragedy, which earned and deeper into the abyss. In or- Junior Gillian Burns said Clem- celebrated,” Fidan said. “There is global recognition, prompted der to get out of that dark place, enti’s presentation was worth- no reason for anyone to be harm- Clementi to co-found the Tyler I believe you need to get help,” while because it urged students ful towards anyone else for their Clementi Foundation. The orga- Clementi said. “You need to fi nd to treat each other with sensitivity views or values.” nization, which has been around healing, and you need to get the and kindness. Fidan said No Name-Calling since 2011, has a mission to end support you need. The support “[Students] learned the dangers Week, which took place between online and offl ine bullying in would come in multiple levels of bullying and how it can really Jan. 21 and Jan. 25, reinforced schools, workplaces and faith depending on where you are and ruin a family and someone’s life,” positive behaviors. communities. It also encourages what has caused you to get into Burns said. “You never know “I have learned to ultimately be Photo by Emma Caamano individuals to take the Upstand- the dark place.” what people are going through, more respectful [of] other people Jane Clementi speaks to sopho- er Pledge by vowing to stand up Counselor and anti-bullying and it can make someone’s day and to never judge anyone based mores and juniors about cyber- to bullying in all social environ- specialist Ms. Leidemer said she just to be kind, even if it’s open- on what they believe in or how bullying on Jan. 17 in the gym. ments. knew Clementi would be a good ing a door.” they live their lives,” said Fidan. The Lighthouse

February 2019 School News 3 There’s more Mock Trial Team Prepping to this big event than achieves 3 wins in for prom meets the eye preliminary rounds By Kayla Sanchez CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 Editor fer feedback and instructions to the team members. “A student taking on an attorney role must learn the skills Every year, juniors anxiously await the day when they required to examine and cross-examine witnesses, make can dress to the nines and travel in limos and party buses or respond to objections to alleged violations of the rules to an elegant hall. There, they spend the evening dancing, of evidence and procedure and present effective opening laughing, eating and making memories with their friends statements and closing arguments,” DiMaggio said. “A and dates. witness role presents a further challenge: to create with While glammed up students might make looking good limited means a credible and engaging character that can look easy, this special event requires months of prepara- hold a judge’s attention.” tion. Photos by Somaia Hassan DiMaggio said this year’s group consisted of experienced “Planning prom is very intense. You have to try to make Seniors Giulia Pezzolla and Frankie Venezia (above) and attorneys and witnesses. She said she was impressed by the as many people as happy as possible, but you can’t make seniors Sophia Falcon and Kara Mueller (below, left to students’ initiative since they requested extra practices and everybody happy,” junior class co-advisor Ms. Rendzia right) stop at the Lyndhurst Municipal Park to pose for prepared on their own. said. “We just want the night to go well and for the kids to photos before heading to prom on May 3, 2018. “Hard work pays off, “DiMaggio said. “All of the stu- have a good time. That’s what our goal is, and everyone dents on the team were excited, which also made me excit- comes home safe.” matter. Everyone danced with everyone, and for one ed.... Their enthusiasm was contagious.” Rendzia said she along with junior class co-ad- night it didn’t matter what clique you were a part Junior Hailey Spahiu, who took on the role of a witness visor Mrs. DeForge are organizing the prom, of,” McChesney said. for the defense, said she joined the Mock Trial Team this which will take place on May 2 at The Roy- Senior Jillian Tkacyzk, who partici- year because she thought it would improve her improvisa- al Manor in Garfi eld. This year’s theme is pated in last year’s Prom Committee, said tional acting skills. “Enchanted Garden,” and while the price prom was worth the preparation because “When I’m up on the stand and somebody dares question of a bid has not yet been determined, last of the great memories she made. my character, I can instantly refute their claim to defend year’s bids went for $140. “I enjoyed being on the dance fl oor the team. I think being on the spot like that helps you to Rendzia, who also planned the proms with my friends, going crazy and think a lot quicker,” Spahiu said. in 2012 and 2016, said the Prom Com- laughing and just having an overall She said it was a great feeling knowing that for the fi rst mittee is vital to the event’s success. good time. It’s something I’m going time in fi ve years, the team won a trial. “You try to let the Prom Commit- to look back on and smile [about] in “There was just a sense of ‘We did that’ among every- tee select as much as possible, so then the future,” Tkacyzk said. one,” Spahiu said. they are getting a say in it,” Rend- Senior advisor Ms. Coppola, who Senior Grescia Aguilar, who played a witness for the de- zia said. “It’s not our prom, it’s their organized last year’s prom, said she fense, said she joined the Mock Trial Team as a freshman prom.” feels good about the evening. but did not take on a signifi cant role until the following Senior Jennifer McChesney was “I thought everyone looked beauti- year when she became an understudy for a witness. among the members of last year’s prom ful. I was happy with the fl owers. I re- When the team won the trial against Lodi High School on committee. ally liked the way the centerpieces came Jan. 10, Aguilar said she felt extremely happy. “The meetings for prom were tense and out. We got a compliment too because the “[Participating in the Mock Trial Team] has made me stressful sometimes, but others were infor- wait staff said, ‘You know we have wed- comfortable inside a courtroom with my friends and taught mative and fun. Oftentimes, people did not dings here, and even the weddings don’t buy me to protect others or myself in the name of the law,” agree on certain ideas, but sometimes we would fl owers as nice as this,’” Coppola said. Aguilar said. come up with a really great one, and it was unanimous,” She said while the night turned out great, the planning She said the extracurricular activity has taught her that McChesney said. process was stressful because she had to remind students no matter what her goal is, hard work is required. She said She said she enjoyed her prom because it was an oppor- to fi ll out their paperwork correctly and turn in their mon- it has also given her the opportunity to make new friends. tunity for her whole class to come together. ey on time. “Mock Trial is a very fun way to connect and meet other “I was a little worried about the seating chart, since I Looking towards this year’s prom, Coppola said she people,” Aguilar said. “The team welcomes you with open knew some people were unhappy with their seats. But offers juniors the following advice: “You’re making mem- arms, and one can truly become a new character and em- once everyone got up and started dancing, it didn’t even ories. So just enjoy it. Make sure you have fun.” brace their past.” Environmental Club strives to make positive impact on planet By Somaia Hassan cycling. Recycling is a good habit that our Editor club encourages throughout [our] school and [our] town,” Alemany said. Last year, senior Rachel Alemany was a Currently, members of the Environmental student in Ms. Manzella’s Advanced Place- Club and National Honor Society collabo- ment Environmental Science class. This rate to collect paper from classroom recy- year, she decided to take what she learned cling bins. and put it to use by launching the Environ- “In the future, we hope to add bottle recy- mental Club, which meets on the second cling due to the abundance of students who Friday of every month. drink or eat from plastic items,” Alemany Alemany said she was inspired by the cur- said. riculum in Manzella’s class. She said besides recycling, she hopes the “I learned about the numerous environ- club members can take a fi eld trip to the mental issues that we are facing as a soci- ety and wanted to make an impact,” Ale- many said. “We all share this earth, Joined by her best friend senior Konrad Skwara, who is taking AP Environmen- and we live on it together, tal Science this year, the pair approached so we need to treat it kindly Photo by Joana Kapaj Manzella and asked if she would be willing Environmental Club co-presidents Rachel Alemany and Konrad Skwara, both seniors, to advise the club. With Manzella on board, and use it carefully.” introduce themselves at the club’s fi rst meeting on Dec. 13. they submitted the necessary paperwork to the administration last year. We could be recycling paper. We could be ronmental Club appeals to her interests. Having gotten approval, the club held an Meadowlands Exposition Center in Lynd- properly discarding trash instead of leav- “I am most excited about learning new interest meeting on Dec. 13, which was at- hurst to learn more about the environment ing it on the ground. We could be compost- ways to take care of our environment tended by about 30 students. Currently, the and participate in a beautifi cation project. ing food instead of letting it go to waste.” and school and how to preserve everyday extracurricular organization is being pilot- “We would clean up the town and plant Skwara said he likes being the leader of a things we use,” Montesinos said. ed, and at the end of the school year, it will fl owers around it in order to make the town club that works to make a positive impact. She already recycles at home because be evaluated to determine whether it will even more beautiful,” Alemany said. “We all share this earth, and we live on it is an easy and effective way to help the be recommended for the 2019-2020 school Skwara said his intention in forming the it together, so we need to treat it kindly and planet. As a member of the Environmental year. club was to raise awareness and save the use it carefully,” Skwara said. “We want Club, Montesinos said she hopes to en- Alemany, who is serving as co-president environment. others to follow an environmentally friend- courage her peers to recycle as well. with Skwara, said her primary goal for the “The club is a way to promote a cleaner ly path because the way we treat [the] earth “It is really not that hard to do because club is to make a positive change in the en- environment for our school,” Skwara said. is going to impact us later in the future.” you put a can or a piece of paper in a recy- vironment. “We really don’t think about our actions Sophomore Kaelan Montesinos, who at- cling bin instead of the trash,” said Mon- “A very important issue is the issue of re- and how they impact the environment. tended the interest meeting, said the Envi- tesinos. The Lighthouse

4 STATE / National NEWS February 2019 Longest government shutdown in history takes toll on Americans and environment By Emma Ferschweiler low lawmakers to create solutions where humans can learn more Staff Writer to problems,” Clifford said. about nature and experience it Among those workers affected firsthand.” Federal employees returned to by a government shutdown are She said there are both advan- work on Jan. 28 following the members of the Coast Guard, tages and disadvantages to keep- longest government shutdown Food and Drug Administration ing national parks open during a in history, which lasted 35 days. personnel, Transportation Securi- government shutdown. However, another partial govern- ty Administration employees and “Some locations remained open, ment shutdown may be on the scientists at the National Science but as the shutdown continued, it horizon, as government agencies Foundation. became a safety issue and addi- only have three weeks before they Humans are not the only ones tional sites had to close [because run out of money again. impacted by the shutdown. The of] excessive garbage piling up, While President Donald Trump environment was also hit hard, overflowing toilets, vandalism Illustration by Alexa Torres signed a stopgap spending bill and hazardous weather condi- on Jan. 25 that will keep the tions,” Manzella said. government funded until Feb. “I don’t really think Joshua Tree and Yosemite in 15, it is unclear what will occur California are both national parks Move over, PARCC after that date. In order to avoid you can necessarily that were vandalized during the another shutdown, members of adapt to this change, shutdown. will be required to take a science Congress need to pass a budget, Sophomore Emily Gabriel said New Jersey ushers test in May or June. which Trump must then sign. The but more[so], you have she was not immediately impact- “This year in high school, you’re legislative and executive branch ed by the partial government in new assessment going to be taking the NJSLA are currently at a stalemate, as to deal with it for the shutdown, but she said she feels Math and the NJSLA-English Trump said he will only sign off sympathetic towards people who By Katrina Hauser Language Arts, and it’s going to on a budget that allocates money time being.” failed to receive their paychecks. Staff Writer be very similar to the PARCC. It’s for the building of a border wall. “I don’t really think you can just going to be a little shorter,” History teacher Mr. Clifford as both the Environmental Pro- necessarily adapt to this change, The Partnership for Assessment Klein said. said he blames lawmakers in tection Agency and the National but more[so], you have to deal of Readiness for College and English teacher Ms. DiMaggio Congress for the partial govern- Park Services were affected. with it for the time being,” Gabri- Careers test, better known as the said she supports the state’s de- ment shutdown. Advanced Placement Environ- el said. PARCC test, has been highly de- cision to reduce the length of its “The government system was mental Science teacher Ms. Man- She said she is worried that bated since it was first introduced state-mandated test because that created, and it is the job of law- zella—who has visited many na- Congress’ failure to agree on a during the 2014-2015 school means students will miss less makers to utilize the system to tional parks including Everglades budget has become a national year, and this year, the state’s ju- class time. compromise. The fact that the National Park in Florida, Glacier crisis, and she is also concerned dicial system weighed in on the She said, ideally, the test would shutdown has lasted over 30 days National Park in Montana and Trump will refrain from signing matter. take place during one school day, supports the argument that both Mount Rainier National Park in the budget agreement reached by A New Jersey appellate court similar to the PSAT. She also said groups have failed to compro- Washington—said she believes Congress. ruled on Dec. 31 that the PARCC one year of state testing should be mise,” Clifford said. preserving the natural environ- “I get that he promised to build test does not match a state law re- sufficient. He said members of Congress ment is essential for research and this wall to his voters, but this quiring students to pass a single “I think that when you have test- are reluctant to compromise with tourism. shutdown has been the longest in test in 11th grade to fulfill a grad- ing every year, then students start members of the opposing politi- “National parks are important history,” Gabriel said. “So many uation requirement. In contrast, tiring out, and each year becomes cal party. for many reasons. National parks people are being affected. At the PARCC test consists of mul- less important to them,” DiMag- “Lawmakers are more con- can help protect natural environ- times like this, I definitely think tiple end-of-year exams including gio said. “They don’t understand cerned with winning elections ments and biodiversity,” Manzel- that getting the government up English and Algebra I. the importance of it because it’s and not compromising with fel- la said. “The parks provide places and running [is] more important.” Staff Developer of Curricu- so ongoing…. It doesn’t seem lum, Instruction, Assessment and like one important test when it’s Technology Mrs. Klein said New three years of a test.” Transgender birth certificates become available Jersey’s Department of Education DiMaggio said she sees the ben- and Governor Phil Murphy decid- efit of a state standardized assess- By Ambar Cabrera if other states will follow New transgender in order to decrease ed the state will be using its own ment because it prepares students Editor Jersey’s lead but remains hopeful. ignorance and bigotry.” assessments which align with the for the SAT, which many colleges “I think it depends on what Agustin said while the law and universities require as part of As of Feb. 1, transgender res- states we’re talking about. New makes a positive change, it is also their admissions criteria. idents in New Jersey are permit- Jersey tends to be more liberal likely to bring about criticism “This year in high “It’s almost like free SAT prep,” ted to update the gender listed and a little bit more progressive,” from conservative individuals. DiMaggio said. on their birth certificates. This Spence said. “Issues like this are “They may see that the govern- school, you’re going Senior Elena Perez said she is change came after Governor Phil probably going to be looked at, ment—and, in turn, society—is against tying any standardized Murphy signed a bill last July that and legislations are probably go- finally accepting of transgen- to be taking the test to graduation. applies to all individuals, includ- ing to be passed [in] similar states der individuals,” Agustin said. “Last year, a lot of students felt ing those who have not had sex with a similar mindset.” “However, with laws similar to NJSLA Math and the they had to take the test because reassignment procedures. Spence said he sees no down- this comes backlash from conser- NJSLA-English the teachers said they would hurt This law also allows an indi- sides to the Babs Siperstein Law. vative members of society. This the school if they didn’t,” Perez vidual’s gender to be referenced “This is certainly an issue that’s backlash may not make transgen- Language Arts, and said. “What is really hurting the on a death certificate and applies important for transgender indi- der people comfortable with com- school is students taking a stan- to current New Jersey residents ing out.” it’s going to be very dardized test instead of learning even if they were born in another Sophomore Emily Gabriel said “I’m glad to she was very happy to learn about similar to the PARCC. in class that day.” state. Those who intend to change Perez said she remembers feel- their listed gender to male, female be seeing change this law. It’s just going to be ing extremely stressed when tak- or undesignated/nonbinary will “People are finally getting the ing the PARCC test during her have to pay a $6 fee to obtain a like this happening.” chance they deserve to be whatev- a little shorter.” freshman year. new certificate. er gender they want and to final- “I had this anxiety to pass it, Known as the Babs Siperstein ize that on paper,” Gabriel said. “I and [I was] very anxious even if Law, this legislation was named viduals, and if this is what will honestly never thought [New Jer- New Jersey Learning Standards.: I knew the answers,” Perez said. after the first openly transgender make them comfortable in an ed- sey would pass this bill] because I the New Jersey Student Learn- “It’s not fair to those with test member of the Democratic Na- ucational setting, then I think it’s feel like many people are against ing Assessments Math and New anxiety or that have not been tional Committee. The bill was a wonderful thing,” Spence said. this. I’m glad to be seeing change Jersey Student Learning Assess- taught what’s on the test.” passed in the state Senate by a Senior Paula Agustin, who is like this happening.” ments-English Language Arts. Like Perez, senior Jeff Gras- vote of 30-7, as three members a member of the Gay Straight Gabriel said the transgender “They are currently in the pro- so believes the PARCC does not did not participate in the decision. Alliance Club, said although the community deserves the type of cess of getting feedback from all accurately represent students’ Prior to the passage of this passage of this law is a huge step legal protection that is granted by different stakeholders [and] do- knowledge. law, the only way a person could forward for the transgender com- the Babs Siperstein Law. ing workshops with educators,” “Some kids aren’t good at test- change genders on a birth certifi- munity, more can be done to sup- “People should be allowed to Klein said. ing, and they shouldn’t [decide] cate was when a doctor provided port them. do this no matter what, and it Klein said the testing window how smart someone is off of one paperwork confirming that one’s “Since I am not transgender, I shouldn’t be taken away. Being will be between April 8 and May test,” Grasso said. sex had been surgically changed. cannot speak for what transgen- allowed to change your birth cer- 28, but the exact dates have not He said a passing score on a Former Governor Chris Christie der individuals would wish for tificate is something that is pro- yet been determined. She said all standardized assessment should twice vetoed the birth certificate in order to benefit their commu- vided to everyone which, to me, freshmen, sophomores and ju- not be a graduation requirement. bill Murphy signed into law. nity,” Agustin said. “However, makes it a right,” Gabriel said. niors will be required to take the “All kids are different. Some are History teacher Mr. Spence, I do wish that there was a way “Being able to have that chance to test, which will be administered better in the class than on a test,” who co-advises the Gay Straight to educate society on the gender finally embrace who you are in- on the iPad. Additionally, juniors said Grasso. Alliance Club, said he is unsure spectrum and the topic of being side and out is a beautiful thing.” The Lighthouse

February 2019 Entertainment 5 Netfl ix removes episode of ‘Patriot Act’ in Saudi Arabia By Sean Leonard can be examined from two per- Webmaster spectives. “From a business standpoint, I Hasan Minhaj, known for his think Netfl ix is looking out for its role as senior correspondent on interests. From a moral standpoint “The Daily Show” and for his or a free expression standpoint, I 2017 Netfl ix stand-up comedy think they should have stood up special “Homecoming King,” has to Saudi Arabia and said, ‘Take it most recently gained media atten- or leave it,’” Clifford said. tion for his politically fueled Net- Senior Susane Morozewicz, fl ix series “Patriot Act.” who watched all seven episodes This series became highly publi- in the show’s fi rst season, said cized after Netfl ix decided in late she is uncertain whether Netfl ix’s December to block Minhaj’s sec- actions were justifi ed. ond episode titled “Saudi Arabia” “[Netfl ix was] advocating the from streaming in that country. idea of artistic creativity and free- In the episode, which was re- dom, but in an attempt to protect leased on Oct. 28, Minhaj criti- Netfl ix’s name and integrity... Screencap from “Thank U, Next” music video cizes Saudi Crown Prince Mo- they [cooperated] with Saudi “Thank U, Next” by Ariana Grande is a song about learning from past relationships and using those ex- hammed bin Salman for his role Arabia’s legal form,” Moroze- periences to move forward. The single for “Thank U, Next” was released on Nov. 3 and the music video in the death of Washington Post wicz said. debuted on Nov. 30. journalist Jamal Khashoggi. She said she appreciates Min- “It blows my mind that it took haj’s dry sense of humor and the killing of a Washington Post willingness to discuss controver- journalist for everyone to go, ‘Oh, sial topics. Ariana Grande pays tribute I guess he’s really not a reform- “He has stated that he is Muslim er,’” Minhaj said in his mono- multiple times and [discussed] logue. “MBS is not modernizing the racial discrimination that he’s Saudi Arabia. The only thing he’s experienced in America and in to her exes in ‘Thank U, Next’ modernizing is Saudi dictator- other nations,” Morozewicz said. ship.” Minjah has not commented By Kayla Sanchez “It shows that she’s accepting “These were probably movies Netfl ix removed the episode publicly about Netfl ix’s decision, Editor the hardships in her life,” DeCoro from her childhood, and they in Saudi Arabia after the Saudi but according to a Dec. 2 article said. “She’s using them in a pos- were all popular movies. They Communications and Information from The Atlantic, Minhaj said he Femininity, strength and inde- itive way.” clearly made a mark on her,” Ra- Technology Commission said it discussed with his family the con- pendence. These three qualities Italian teacher Mr. Raguseo, guseo said. violated Article 6 of the Saudi an- sequences of criticizing bin Sal- are the subject of Ariana Grande’s who regularly plays pop music He said the four fi lms convey ti-cyber crime law which prohib- man and Saudi Arabia. He said he latest single “Thank U, Next,” during his classes, said he was im- the message of her song. its the “production, preparation, was afraid he would be murdered, which was released on Nov. 3. pressed by the scope of Grande’s “It seems like she’s grateful transmission, or storage of mate- and this fear intensifi ed because Senior Angelina DeCoro, who music video. for having her experience with rial impinging on public order, re- he has a baby daughter. is a fan of Grande’s music and has “She was able to fi nd these ac- an ex-boyfriend,” Raguseo said. ligious values, public morals, and Senior Brenda Ortega has only seen Grande in concert, said the tors from these movies to reenact “Even though it didn’t work out, privacy, through the information watched the “Saudi Arabia” ep- song took her by surprise. these scenes, even the love in- it made her a better person, a dif- network or computers.” isode of “Patriot Act” and said “I didn’t know it was being terest in ‘Mean Girls,’” Raguseo ferent person, and she learned History teacher Mr. Clifford said Minhaj is correct in avoiding released, and when it did, I had said. from it, hopefully.” the Saudi government uses this making any public comments a mental breakdown,” DeCo- Mac Miller, one of Grande’s Junior Melanie Fallas said she law to limit expression it believes about the episode’s removal. ro said. “She wanted everyone ex-boyfriends, died on Sept. 7, views “Thank U, Next” as a song is detrimental to the welfare of its “I think it would be best if Min- to know that ‘I am here. I am two months before the song’s re- about empowerment and self society. haj no longer talked about this for prominent,’ and I thought that the lease. Raguseo said he believes love. “It’s a very general statement, his own safety,” Ortega said. amount of female empowerment Grande was trying to honor the “She mentions having better dis- and what they have done in the Although Minhaj has not made that she put into this song was just memory of the late rapper. cussions with herself and learning past is they have used that law to a public announcement, he did so amazing.” “The video might be a tribute to that loving someone else won’t limit freedom of expression [and] tweet about the matter on Jan. 2. DeCoro said despite the neg- him. Typically with these artists, always work out,” Fallas said. anti-government protests,” Clif- “Clearly, the best way to stop ative publicity Grande has re- Fallas said she appreciated ford said. people from watching something ceived concerning her various Grande’s creative approach to the Netfl ix’s decision to adhere to is to ban it, make it trend online, celebrity relationships, the singer “To me, it means music video because it conveys the Saudi government’s request and then leave it up on YouTube,” and songwriter managed to create unity among women. was followed by strong criticism, Minhaj said in his tweet. an honest and fearless track. moving on and learning “All these movies have strong as Washington Post global opin- As of Jan. 22, “Saudi Arabia” Grande’s “Thank U, Next” female leads that eventually real- ions editor Karen Attiah called had 2.1 million views on You- music video includes recreated from your experiences ize that having self love is the fi rst Netfl ix’s actions “quite outra- Tube, compared to 649,000 for scenes from the popular movies whether they be good step to moving forward in life and geous” on Twitter. Minhaj’s fi rst episode titled “Af- “13 going on 30,” “Bring it On,” being successful,” Fallas said. Netfl ix responded in a state- fi rmative Action.” “Legally Blonde” and “Mean or bad and realizing “Just like the song, she wanted ment saying the company intends Ortega agreed with Minhaj’s Girls.” to have a video that empowered to stick with its decision. tweet, saying the publicity sur- DeCoro said she believes the that sometimes things those who watch her.” “We strongly support artistic rounding the episode’s censorship music video was a good fi t for the Since the song’s release, “Thank freedom and removed this epi- has sparked people’s curiosity. song. won’t work out, but U, Next” has become a popular sode only in Saudi Arabia after “When you tell someone they “I thought it was absolutely that’s okay.” caption and hashtag. While some we had received a valid legal re- can’t do something, it just makes beautiful. The movies she chose say the phrase is now overused, quest—and to comply with local them want to do it more. So, of were all female-empowering Fallas said it holds a valuable law,” according to the statement. course, it infl uenced way more movies,” DeCoro said. “It was a when they develop these songs, meaning for her. Clifford said Netfl ix’s decision people... to watch it,” said Ortega. fun twist on a song that can be when they record these songs, “To me, it means moving on and seen as negative.” that’s months and months in ad- learning from your experiences DeCoro said the selection of vance,” Raguseo said. “That’s whether they be good or bad and the cast, particularly Kris Jenner why, if anything, the video might realizing that sometimes things who played the role of Regina be dedicated to him.” won’t work out, but that’s okay. George’s mom in “Mean Girls,” “Thank U, Next” was strate- You can always come back as was excellent because it made the gically released on Nov. 30 just long as you stay true to yourself,” video iconic yet unexpected. 90 minutes before the airing of Fallas said. DeCoro said she appreciates the Saturday Night Live, whose cast She said because of Grande’s personal lyrics that Grande incor- included Grande’s former fi ancé highly publicized relationships, porated into her single. Pete Davidson. Raguseo said this “Thank U, Next” gave the artist a Towards the end of the song, timing was no coincidence. method to cope with her breakups Grande references her parents, “I don’t know if her intent was and fi nd a way to move on with singing, “One day I’ll walk down necessarily to hurt him, but they her life. the aisle/ Holding hands with my have to strike when the iron is hot “I feel like it’s something she mama/ I’ll be thanking my dad/ because she knew this would get did in order to let go of her recent ‘Cause she grew from the drama.” a buzz, would get people talking, past and all the speculation sur- DeCoro said she especially likes and more people are going to tune rounding her previous relation- this verse because Grande refers in to the video,” Raguseo said. ships,” Fallas said. “In a way, it’s to her mom as a role model who He said Grande was also very kind of like a freeing moment for Screencap from Netflix was able to overcome her own intentional in the fi lms she in- her, and it allows her to move on Following a request by Saudi offi cials, Netfl ix took down the “Patriot troubled relationship. cluded in her video. with her life.” Act” episode titled “Saudi Arabia.” The Lighthouse

6 Social media 7 Full time and online Businesses use social media to drive success Students give a ‘thumbs down’ By Hailey Mayewski they’re actually telling the truth, By Erin Murgittroyd Facebook Staff Writer that they’re not just saying, ‘Oh Editor it’s a great product’ when they ac- For senior Ruby Rodrigues, tually truly hate it,” Rendzia said. Feb. 4 marked Facebook’s 15th posting on Instagram is more For the most popular infl uenc- birthday. After launching in 2004, than a hobby. It’s a job. ers, being a presence on social it quickly rose to become one of In charge of running the Insta- media is a full time job. They the most popular social media gram account for Foschini’s Brick earn a living by serving as paid platforms on the internet. Oven Kitchen in Lyndhurst, Ro- spokespeople for various brands, Fast forward a decade-and-a- Art by Gianna Glover drigues posts a variety of content receiving money from platforms half, and Facebook is now consid- including food photos, videos, like YouTube where they post Social media apps are used by ered one of the Big Four technol- menu information, contest details content and sell their own mer- businesses and individuals seek- ogy groups, along with Amazon, ing innovative and effective ways and uplifting messages. chandise. Apple and Google. While it re- to make money. She said social media is one of Rendzia said she looks forward corded 58.3 million users in 2018, the main ways the casual Italian to purchasing apparel sold by one everyday thing where they have the majority of its users tended to restaurant keeps its patrons in- of her favorite YouTubers. to go into the offi ce from nine to be between 25 and 34, according formed. “Kian Lawley dropped a lot of fi ve. They found a niche, and they to Statista, an online statistics “The reason social media works merchandise. It was limited edi- like it,” Jankowski said. “It’s a lit- portal. Among teens and people is because the constant posts keep tion, and they only sold like 250 tle creative, and I think it’s out of in their early twenties, Facebook customers engaged,” Rodrigues the box.” is far less popular. said. “If you forget to post for a Jankowski said since younger In a 147-person survey con- few days, you lose customer in- “The reason social people rarely watch TV, social ducted by The Lighthouse, Snap- terest or possible orders made media is the perfect way to reach chat took the lead as the most through Instagram or Facebook.” media works is because them, especially when a celebrity used social media platform with Senior Raina Rendzia agreed is involved. 74 votes, followed by Instagram that social media plays a key role the constant posts keep “If you think about it, it costs a with 55 votes. Twitter garnered in a business’ success. She said customers engaged.” lot of money for them to get these just six votes, and only three stu- one of the main ways companies stars to promote their products, dents selected Facebook as their boost sales is by getting the sup- but just think about how much preferred social media platform. port of a social media infl uencer. of each size,” Rendzia said. “I was money they’re bringing back In fact, only 45 percent of stu- She said that is a win for both the in a swim meet during that, and I in,” Jankowski said. “They do so dents surveyed said they have a company and the infl uencer. was not able to get anything…. much product and advertisement Facebook account, and just 10 “I think it’s very smart because I’m still very upset about it.” research in this.” percent of those students who use in 2012. Even though not every- it’s easy money. You just say you Personal fi nance and accounting Companies also like to use so- Facebook said they check it on a one from her graduating class was like this company, and they will teacher Mrs. Jankowski, who ad- cial media platforms to scope out regular basis. her Facebook friend, she said her give you money,” Rendzia said. vises the Future Business Leaders their competitors so they can de- One of Facebook’s loyal users is friends shared the posts so the in- She said even though social of America, said she admires peo- vise a plan to increase their sales. art teacher Mrs. Auteri, who has formation would reach most peo- media stars improve a company’s ple who have been able to build “The internet’s never going had an account since 2008. ple in her graduating class. bottom line, consumers have rea- their own brand on social media. away,” Jankowski said. “Every- “It came out, and all your friends “It’s a small world, but it be- son to be skeptical. “They found something that’s thing’s money, so at the end of the were on it, which started a differ- comes even a bigger world when “I just want to make sure that a little off, that’s not the normal day, it comes down to a dollar.” ent form of communication and you open up to social media like helped you talk to people you ha- Facebook,” Auteri said. ven’t seen in awhile,” Auteri said. She said Facebook has also been She said it is a great platform helpful in generating hype about Instagram bans seemingly harmless hashtags to connect with people from high a cookie business she runs out- school and share photos of fam- By Andrew Estafanous New Year's, Easter and alone be- against pornography. side of school. When people tag ily. Even though she has noticed Staff Writer cause people could use those tags Acta said Instagram has gone Auteri on the cookies she makes younger people lean towards negatively like disrespecting Eas- too far in banning this hashtag. for them, Auteri said she gets other platforms like Instagram Known for its simple visual ter since it’s a Catholic holiday or “If the word ‘women’ is banned, messages from other people ask- and Snapchat, Auteri said she, layout and diversity of content, alone, teasing people with depres- then the word ‘men’ should also ing her to make cookies for their her friends and her family all use Instagram has become one of the sion,” Sammarone said. be banned because it could also parties. Facebook. most infl uential sites and most He said since Instagram creat- be used inappropriately,” Acta When communicating with Auteri said Facebook was espe- used social media apps. Those ed the platform, it has the right said. students, Auteri said Instagram cially helpful when she was help- who have Instagram accounts en- to ban any content it deems unfi t. Senior Brian Arroyave said he is more effective because that ing to plan her 20th LHS reunion joy posting photos and videos as However, Sammarone said he be- has been using Instagram for al- is where her students tend to be well as spreading their messages lieves users should receive sever- most fi ve years now to stay in- through the use of hashtags. al warnings before their accounts formed about sports. However, users’ abilities to at- are affected. He also said users Arroyave said he rarely looks tach hashtags became more limit- should have the right to contact up hashtags, but when he does, ed last year when Instagram made Instagram to challenge a banned they are usually soccer-relat- Only 45 percent the decision to ban more than 85 hashtag. ed such as #soccer or #France. of students have a hashtags. These range from edgy Like Sammarone, junior Kiara He said users who used banned Facebook account. hashtags like #nasty, #pornfood Acta said hashtags do not affect hashtags should not be immedi- Only 10 percent and #undies to the seemingly in- the platform in any signifi cant ately removed from Instagram. of these students nocent hashtags of #desk, #hap- way. “They may be unaware of the use Facebook on a pythanksgiving and #kansas. “Many users don’t use hashtags hashtag being banned. I also regular basis. Senior Anthony Sammarone, who spends about two hours on Instagram every day, said he be- lieves the effect banned hashtags have on users is minimal. “Hashtags aren’t extremely important. Also, people can use different hashtags by changing Visual element by Adam Herabi and Erin Murgittroyd the words around, and it will still The Lighthouse surveyed 147 students about their social media use. mean the same thing,” Samma- rone said. Like many users, Sammarone relies on Instagram to get his Does the magic of Snapchat’s disappearing act negatively affect relationships? sports updates, view humorous posts and stay connected with By Jamie Connors post temporary content to close friends. Art by Andrew Estafanous Editor friends. After viewing either a di- “Even though I use Instagram Instagram banned 85 hashtags in 2018. Some of these recently banned rect message or video, the content quite a bit, the impact is small hashtags are featured above. Countless streak pictures and would instantly disappear. since I don’t need to use hashtags posts to stories have allowed Senior Elena Vilanova said that to explain what I say in a cap- nowadays, and they have no im- think they should be given warn- Snapchat to seemingly dominate these vanishing messages insti- tion,” Sammarone said. pact on me,” said Acta, who ings before getting banned,” Ar- the social media of today’s youth. gate worry and fear in partners. Although he does not use or pay spends up to two hours a day royave said. “I believe that those However, the instantly disappear- “I think Snapchat causes a lot much attention to hashtags, Sam- scrolling through her feed. hashtags were banned because ing pictures and messages have of trust issues because it is easy marone said he understands why Among the hashtags Instagram they could be offensive to oth- profound impacts on romantic to hide things to avoid breaking Instagram would prohibit some has banned is #women because er people on the internet, [but] I relationships. a relationship,” Vilanova said. ordinary words. it was being used in a way that have not found a hashtag that I Released in September 2011, “Having evidence of interactions “I think they banned words like violated Instagram’s strict policy think needs to be banned.” Snapchat was created to send and [that] disappear causes a mystery. The Lighthouse

6 Social media 7 Students give Facebook a ‘thumbs down’ No social media? No problem. FOMO isn’t an issue, according to students and faculty

By Joe Sandomenico much on social media to form of communication. Staff Writer satisfy boredom and could “Most of the people on so- easily leave my cell phone cial media are my ‘fwends’ Social media is now part in the house without feeling at work, so I can just talk of most people’s daily nervous or like I lost some- to them at lunch to get lives. So, what happens thing.” the scoop. The Room 214 when users are away from Even though she spends lunch crew is way more of these popular platforms? about two or three hours a draw than social media Junior Hailey Pell said per day on social media, during the day,” Carucci although she is addicted Vazquez said she does not said. to social media, when she believe she is addicted. Carucci, who said he con- cannot access it, she man- “When I receive notifi ca- siders himself “seasoned” ages to stay calm. tions, I don’t feel a sudden instead of old, does not “I usually just distract impulse and need to grab experience FOMO. Even Facebook page. However, Silve- myself with other things,” though he spends little time lo said Twitter is a more effective Pell said. “I’ll enjoy the on social media, Carucci way to reach her club members. moment instead of check- said his students do a good “Even though our FBLA chap- ing social media to see “When I receive job keeping him informed ter has an account on each plat- what other people are do- by quizzing him on popular form, we fi nd Facebook is the ing.” notifi cations, I terms and trends. least used. Most of our Facebook FOMO—which stands “One of the most inter- followers are parents of the kids for “fear of missing out”— don’t feel a sudden esting things about be- that are members,” Silvelo said. can pertain to social media ing a teacher is that we in instances when users are impulse and One of the students who still learn from you guys, and Photos by Emma Caamano unable to check what is go- you guys learn from us,” uses Facebook on a daily basis is ing on with their friends or need to grab my Carucci said. “I enjoy it. It In a survey of 147 students con- senior Ariana Lombardi. ducted by The Lighthouse, only keep up with current trends keeps me on my toes, and “What I like most about Face- phone to look at three students said Facebook is and news. it does teach me things I book is that I’m able to use the their favorite social media plat- Ironically, Pell said her didn’t know.” messenger feature to help me FOMO is the worst when what it is.” form. Carucci said even though communicate with my family in she is on social media. he loves using MySpace Italy. This is a great way to keep “When I see posts of peo- and SnapCat, which is an more active. She said former stu- in contact without having to pay ple hanging out, I feel like my phone to look at what app for cat lovers, he be- dents sometimes friend request the fees that come with text mes- I’m missing out,” Pell said. it is. I also believe that lieves social media has a Junior Adriana Vazquez her on her personal Instagram saging and phone calls,” Lombar- the world can offer you so lot of negative effects. said she ends up taking a “While it’s nice to stay di said. many amazing things and account once they graduate, but break from social media that, if you decide to focus updated on how people are she said that rarely happens on She said the benefi t of Face- when her family travels on your cell phone rather doing and see adorable pic- Facebook. book is that a lot of people have abroad for the summer. than embrace what’s out tures of [Mr. Tessalone’s Another frequent Facebook user accounts because it is one of the “In the past, when I’ve there, you’ll be missing daughter] Reese Tessalone, is Spanish teacher Mrs. Silvelo. oldest social media platforms. gone to Spain to visit my out,” Vazquez said. there can also be a lot of Even though she said she has a She said most students do not go family, we had no WiFi Algebra and statistics negativity on social media, slight preference for Instagram, on Facebook anymore because in the house, and our cell- teacher Mr. Carucci also and I try to fi ll my life with she still sees the benefi t of having they prefer social media that is phones did not offer in- said it is important to con- positivity,” Carucci said. a Facebook account. geared towards younger demo- ternational data, so I was centrate on real-life expe- “I’m living the dream. AP forced to enjoy the summer “I enjoy blogs that involve de- graphics. riences rather than screens. Statistics is way more in- unplugged,” Vazquez said. teresting than anything I “I feel like it’s more made for He said in-person interac- cor, cooking, parenting and fash- “I stopped depending so tions are the most valuable can see on the internet.” ion. Facebook is easy access to adults now, and there’s more that,” Silvelo said. competition like Instagram and While Silvelo said Facebook Snapchat than just having a Face- features a lot of interesting con- book account,” Lombardi said. tent, she said it has its fl aws. She said her favorite social me- “It’s become a platform of ads, dia platform is Twitter. politics, criticism and of people “What I like about Twitter the fl aunting their ‘best lives,’” Sil- most is [that I] can just post what- velo said. ever I’m feeling, and if someone As an advisor of the Future else feels the same way, they can Business Leaders of America retweet what I posted,” said Lom- Club, she oversees the club’s bardi. Does the magic of Snapchat’s disappearing act negatively affect relationships? Especially if there is limited trust can seem intimidating and may are meaningless. relli said. She said engaging in open con- in a relationship, not knowing signal disloyalty, she believes “If you’re in a relationship, you Senior Larissa Sales said Snap- versations will increase faithful- your partner’s true actions can streaks do not imply anything should end streaks with those you chat is not directly responsible for ness and promote positivity. drive you insane.” other than acquaintanceship. can’t trust or ask your partner to the destruction of most modern “Snapchat can easily ruin trust Another major feature of Snap- “People should be able to trust end their streaks,” Das said. day relationships. in modern relationships since chat is a streak, which involves their girlfriend or boyfriend or Sophomore Nick Morelli agreed “Despite the malicious intent people can come off badly in sending and receiving Snapchats be comfortable confronting them with Das. of certain users, Snapchat is not situations at times. However, I on consecutive days. Next to a about specifi c issues,” Vilanova “Having so many people con- what ruins relationships,” Sales believe that it all comes down to user’s name appears the number said. “Even with something as stantly Snapchatting each other said. “It is the people themselves loyalty and trust,” Sales said. “If of days one has continuously in- trivial as a Snapchat streak, com- and seeing each other’s faces and their actions. Most times, the one is willing to communicate in teracted with another. munication is always key.” causes jealousy and arguments. guilty party is choosing to remain a relationship, then false accu- Vilanova said although Snap- Senior Sid Das said he disagrees This can even cause relationships silent, unwilling to communicate sations and misconceptions will chatting specifi c people every day with Vilanova’s belief that streaks to be unhealthy and broken,” Mo- with their partner.” easily be avoided.” The Lighthouse

8 Entertainment February 2019 Album Review Netflix Review Earl Sweatshirt raps about his struggles behind closed doors in ‘Some Rap Songs’ sounds make it his best yet. Sweatshirt holds nothing back. After a three year hiatus, Sweat- “Azucar” and “Red Waters” add shirt released the track “Nowher- complexity to the meaning of e2go” on Nov. 11 as a teaser for “Peanut” because they reveal his upcoming album. In this sin- the friction that existed between gle, he confesses, “I keep it quiet Sweatshirt and his father. as kept/ I spent most of my life In addition to death and mental depressed/ Only thing on my health, isolation is also a recur- Cover from Netflix mind was death/ Didn’t know if ring topic. It is most pronounced my time was next.” in “Eclipse,” where Sweatshirt re- “Set It Up” is a romantic comedy about two stressed out assistants. The bluntness of his lyrics peats, “Say goodbye to my open- By Victoria Niedbal After setting up an elevator in- along with the syncopated beats ness, total eclipse” and “Veins,” Editor teraction and planning romantic conveys to listeners that Sweat- where he says, “It’s been a min- getaways for cold-hearted Kirsten Cover from Columbia Records shirt has offi cially come out of his ute since I heard applause,” refer- Falling in love may seem im- Stevens (Lucy Liu) and conceited “Some Rap Songs” is the third shell. ring to the summer concert tour possible while working 16-hour Rick Otis (Taye Diggs), the two studio album by American rapper In the album opener titled he canceled due to his depression. days in the competitive New York assistants try everything they can Earl Sweatshirt. It was released “Shattered Dreams,” Sweatshirt The standout songs on this al- City business world. However, to keep their plan going. As the on Nov. 30. immediately discloses his mental bum are “Azucar,” “The Bends” through clever humor and fl irty plan begins to go south, the focus health issues. He raps, “Why ain’t and “Riot!” because they all bring conversations, “Set It Up” proves of the fi lm shifts to concentrate By Alexa Maddi nobody tell me I was sinkin’?/ elements of soul and jazz into the that people can fi nd love even on the growing relationship be- Staff Writer Ain’t nobody tell me I could 21st Century. in the most unexpected circum- tween Harper and Charlie. leave.” In this line, Sweatshirt “Riot!” was created as a tribute stances. “Set It Up” is the perfect movie Thebe Kgositsile, better known questions why no one urged him to Sweatshirt’s uncle, South Af- Overworked and underpaid, for a month dedicated to love. In- by his stage name Earl Sweatshirt, to seek help for the anxiety and rican jazz musician Hugh Mase- Harper (Zoey Deutch) and Char- nocent fl irting and comedy swirl rose to fame at only 16 years old kela, who died just weeks after lie (Glen Powell) strive to be around the entire plot, creating a when he became a member of Sweatshirt’s father. In this song, the perfect assistants to their seemingly effortless fi lm that is hip-hop group Odd Future. Hav- Despite being a short Sweatshirt takes Masekela’s song demanding, workaholic bosses both charming and entertaining. ing broken into the music indus- “Riot,” which was released in whose offi ces are located in the Through surprising and intrigu- try so early, Sweatshirt has faced album, the unfi ltered 1969, and makes it his own. same building. These characters ing complications, “Set It Up” immense pressure to maintain his lyrics and raw, Entirely instrumental, “Riot!” capture the true challenges mil- proves itself to be an upgrade in place in the limelight. provides a memorable ending lennials face as they grapple with the rom-com genre, which has Having lost his father, uncle experimental sounds that allows listeners to catch their an unpredictable future and the been slowly dying. and close friend Mac Miller, breaths and refl ect on the project. goal of upward mobility. The chemistry between the there’s no question that 2018 was make it his best yet. Although the distorted sounds After an accidental encounter in couples refl ects the synergy of a a devastating year for the 24-year- in “Some Rap Songs” won’t ap- the lobby over a late night dinner well-matched cast, and the strong old rapper. However, in his third depression that plagued him for peal to every listener, there’s no order, they realize their own lives and sharp dialogue allows the studio album titled “Some Rap years. denying the album brings a dis- might be a bit easier if their boss- fi lm to fl ow naturally. “Set It Up” Songs,” Sweatshirt proves it is By far the most heartbreaking tinct style to the hip-hop industry. es found a love connection. is further enhanced by a catchy possible to turn profound loss into song in this project is “Peanut,” In this project, Sweatshirt shows With this objective in mind, the and lighthearted soundtrack that captivating art. in which Sweatshirt refl ects on that a rapper doesn’t need a fancy two brainstorm a risky match- appears in the perfect moments. “Some Rap Songs” was released the grief he faced following his production to be memorable nor making scheme to ignite a ro- This classic love story is sure on Nov. 30 and consists of 15 father’s death. does he need long songs to get his mantic spark between their boss- to melt every viewer’s heart. Ex- songs, only three of which break Rapping, “Bless my pops, we point across. Sweatshirt’s gift is es. They hope the newfound love ploring the energizing aspects of the two minute mark. Despite be- sent him off and not an hour late/ his bluntness, and in “Some Rap will allow them to sneak away young love in a modern-world, ing a short album, the unfi ltered Still in shock and now my heart Songs,” Sweatshirt plays to his from work and attain a well-de- everyone should set aside an eve- lyrics and raw, experimental out somewhere on the range,” greatest strength. served social life. ning to watch “Set It Up.” Two Girls Turn the Page: Literature Review Former FLOTUS recounts her journey in ‘Becoming’

By Katrina Hauser Through it all, she received an After an exhausting campaign, owed by her security detail and Staff Writer abundance of love and support the 2008 election night arrived. wearing designer ball gowns. from her family that allowed her Her description of life during “Becoming” is beautifully poi- Michelle Obama, the former to thrive. the campaign was so remarkable gnant, providing deep insight into fi rst lady of the United States, at- The second part of the book, that it created a palpable tension the former fi rst lady’s thoughts tended two Ivy League schools. “Becoming Us,” is primarily even among readers who are fully and apprehensions. It feels ex- She held powerful positions in focused on Obama’s life after aware of the results. tremely personal in the best way. her home city of Chicago, and she she met her soon-to-be husband Barack’s presidential win leads Readers see her develop from a married a man who went on to Barack Obama and fell in love. into the book’s fi nal section, “Be- young, bold girl into a powerful lead one of the world’s most pow- After getting married, the couple coming More.” In these chap- woman with an entire country erful countries. started a family with their two ters, the memoirist describes her watching her. However, before that, she was daughters Malia and Sasha. family’s new life inside one of Her love for her hometown a young African-American girl In her memoir, she discusses the the most famous buildings in the community shines through at the from humble beginnings. Born challenge of balancing work and world: the White House. perfect moments, such as when and raised on Chicago’s South family, since both she and Barack As fi rst lady, Obama was faced she founded the Chicago chapter side, she worked tirelessly in were extremely busy with their with various duties and obliga- of Public Allies, an organization Cover from Crown Publishing own careers. tions. She drafted initiatives com- that prepares young adults for ca- school and in her community. “Becoming” by Michelle Obama Losing interest in being a law- bating childhood obesity and cre- reers in public service. Obama—then known as Michelle was published on Nov. 13. Robinson—made her origin story yer, she turned her attention to ated a garden on the White House Superbly written, “Becoming” the focus of the fi rst section of her jobs that focused on bettering the grounds that went on to produce is far more enjoyable than one from the serious topics that are memoir “Becoming.” community of Chicago. Barack, thousands of pounds of food might expect. Obama does not important to her, such as losses This section, which is titled “Be- a thoughtful visionary, set his annually. She met people like concern herself with detailed in her personal life and tragedies coming Me,” details her life from sights on a position in Congress. Queen Elizabeth II and political discussions of politics; she only like the Sandy Hook Elementary the time she was a child on Euclid From there, he became a state leader Nelson Mandela in addi- mentions the important events School shooting. Avenue to a young adult working senator and later announced his tion to visiting wounded veterans that have a large impact on the By recounting key moments at a Chicago law fi rm. campaign for president. in hospitals. country and on her personally. in her life, Obama sends a pow- In this section, Obama describes This section goes into detail All of this took place in front When writing, she does not erful message about confi dence, the academic achievements, fam- about Barack’s presidential cam- of many watchful eyes. The pub- take herself too seriously, de- acceptance and perseverance. ily relations and college experi- paign and shows that Michelle lic and the media were constant scribing her life in a laid-back From her modest life on Euclid ences that infl uenced her growing embarked on a campaign trail spectators, and Secret Service way that may seem surprisingly Avenue in Chicago to the White up. She struggled with bullies and of her own. She sat in kitchens, agents monitored the Obamas casual coming from a former fi rst House in Washington, D.C., she her father’s multiple sclerosis, but churches and on front porches wherever they went. Still, under lady. This works to her benefi t, as uses her personal experiences to she also fl ourished in academic answering voters’ questions and these pressures, Michelle tried Obama’s voice is refreshing and encourage readers to maintain settings and eventually followed attempting to humanize her hus- to ensure that her daughters were self-assured. optimism through times of trou- in her older brother’s footsteps by band by joking about his messy happy and that she remained true Despite the memoir’s relaxed ble and, above all, to believe in attending Princeton University. habits and his snoring. to her character while being shad- tone, Obama does not shy away themselves. The Lighthouse

February 2019 OPINION 9 Column Head-to-Head What would Newman do? It’s called ‘break’ for a reason By Gianna Glover is nearly impossible to do with a heavy load of homework. Mr. Newman Editor Jobs teach students responsibility, enhance their commu- Faculty Columnist nication skills and result in money that can be used to pay 180. This is the number of days students spend each for necessities or saved up for college. So, just because a year in school, working endlessly to achieve high grades, student is in Lyndhurst during a break, it is incorrect to extracurricular success and solid preparation for their fu- assume that person is sitting at home doing nothing. tures. This is exactly the reason why during the week-long That said, the importance of relaxation cannot be over- If you could speak another language, breaks in December, February and April, teachers should looked. what would it be and why? not assign homework. Students need time for themselves, and they need to Some families choose to spend these breaks together rest. On average, teens require approximately eight to 10 Compiled by Emma Caamano by taking a domestic or international vacation. This is an hours of sleep per night. By having a homework-free vaca- Editor-in-Chief opportunity not only to connect with loved ones but to try tion, students can catch up on their sleep and restore their new foods, gain exposure to other cultures and view iconic mental health. Then, they can come back to school fully What a lot of people don’t realize is that I can’t just say, tourist attractions. However, students who are bombarded refreshed and ready to take on the challenges of a rigorous “Spanish. See ya next month, folks!” with assignments are unable to take full advantage of these schedule. Where’s the entertainment, the roller coaster of emotion, valuable experiences. According to the National Sleep Foundation, students the fi nesse or panache of an answer like that? Sure, I ex- Among upperclassmen, travel plans may consist of vis- who lack sleep are limited in their ability to absorb infor- pect that kind of “short answer” response on a long World its to check out prospective college campuses. Sometimes mation, listen, concentrate and problem-solve. They are History test on a Friday in June (That’s right, because the fi nding the college that is the “perfect fi t” can take a while, also more likely to act aggressively and get sick. There- train doesn’t stop rolling in Room 226 until June 20). and particularly for those touring the campuses of out-of- fore, giving students a stress-free vacation is the fi rst step Also… Spanish? I have my “ride or die” Ms. Veiga for state schools, this research can be very time-consuming. in making sure they return to school ready to learn. Spanish. If Ms. Veiga were busy doing cool Ms. Veiga Therefore, upperclassmen need the weeks off to explore While teachers and administrators may fear teenagers things, I still have Mrs. Stern who can speak Spanish… options for their futures and do the research necessary to will waste away their vacation if they do not have an as- and you don’t want me calling in Mrs. Stern to tell your turn their aspirations into a reality. signment to complete, that is rarely the case. Generally, parents what you did wrong in my class. Even those who spend their breaks in Lyndhurst tend to students use their breaks to work towards big goals and So, I’ll make this tougher on myself. If we went with have a busy week. strengthen important bonds. sheer population, Chinese would be the language of According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, about 21 A homework-free break would not just be nice, it is truly choice. However, it’s one thing to speak Chinese, but fi rst million American teenagers were employed in 2017. Some a necessity for the students of LHS. After countless hours you have to ask, which one? There’s a few versions of Chi- students use their time off from school to pick up extra dedicated to schoolwork and extracurriculars, a week nese including Cantonese, Mandarin and Manchurian. hours at their jobs to earn some extra cash. This, however, without academics would be very well-deserved. Let’s say I even picked the best dialect. I’m still not in a good spot because I wouldn’t be able to write it. Ba- sic Chinese newspaper reading means I’d have to know I wish I could be around 2,000 or 3,000 individual characters. In English I there too. just have to know 36. Don’t forget numbers AND letters! An educated Chinese person—whom I’d obviously want to be—needs to know over 8,000 individual characters. So, while that would help when I’d be visiting China and some major cities, I wouldn’t ever be able to pick up the writing aspect of Chinese, so that’s out. If we move to the language of the largest country of the world, Russia, we have a similar issue with writing since Russian utilizes the Cyrillic alphabet. Also, the only cities We wish you I really want to visit are Moscow and St. Petersburg, so I could have joined don’t really need that language. us.... Japanese and Korean have phonetic writing, so it’s not as bad as learning Chinese writing, but again, outside of visiting those countries, I wouldn’t need those languages. Arabic would be convenient when traveling to the Mid- dle East and North Africa, especially since that is where the most iconic religious sites are located. Also, the next FIFA World Cup will be held in Qatar. On the other hand, with the way the world is right now, I think it would be best to keep my practice of the Arabic language within the United States. I’d rather not be an American who speaks Arabic in those countries, as I do not want to get on the “watchlists” of any government agencies. I love France and French culture. I had an awesome honeymoon living in Paris for two weeks, but I was able to Illustration by Sebastian Cabrera get by with English. Additionally, I have a fantastic travel tip for you: Go to Lids and get yourself the classic Yankee fi tted navy blue cap, not some fl uorescent yellow one with a salmon colored “NY.” You need the original, “Looking Head-to-Head sharp, Mr. Snyder style” Yankee navy blue fi tted. This ac- cessory is better than a passport to establish who you are before you even open your mouth around the world. Homework over break holds a host of benefi ts When you do and that “New York-ah” accent comes out, By Adam Herabi introduce new content or provide a review of material that people will know that you’re not a person to be messed Webmaster has already been covered. This way, teachers do not have with. They don’t know if they are talking to someone that’s to rush through the curriculum as quickly, and there won’t “worldly” or someone that has a nickname back home like We all know that feeling. It’s the day before a week-long be giant waves of work to compensate for lost time during Paulie Walnuts. So yeah, wearing that NY on your head break, and you are so excited to leave school and relax… a break. means you don’t have to speak their language, but they that is, until your plans are disrupted by homework. Having to complete work outside of class requires stu- better, or “beddah” speak your language! Although homework over a break may seem unnecessary dents to act independently and responsibly. As such, home- Alright, let’s get past the Yankee fi tted and show some and annoying, well-designed assignments can be quite ef- work over a break develops study skills and discipline that culture and decision-making here. fective. They can help to keep a student’s skills in check will be crucial in college and beyond. I’m going to go with German. Since both my parents did and maintain the fast pace of higher level classes. Most teachers assign projects at some point during the 23andMe, I know that I am beyond 50 percent German. Naturally, one’s mind is not as stimulated when relaxing school year, and a long break is the perfect time for these While I am proud of that, Germany has also felt like a sec- at home for a week or two. This is where homework comes assessments. With a week off, there is plenty of time to ond home the dozen or so times I have been there. complete the project and it can boost the grades of students Berlin is a city that has changed before my eyes every who may be struggling in a class. decade I have visited. Munich makes my soul electric and The group of students that benefi t most The group of students that benefi t most from homework has powered me through very long nights of gallivanting. during a break are those enrolled in Advanced Placement Plus, German is spoken in Switzerland, Austria, the Czech from homework during a break are those classes. Republic and many other places. With the overwhelming amount of content covered in So, German is the answer. As a person who is of German enrolled in Advanced Placement classes. most AP courses, time is of the essence. AP exams are ap- heritage, I could use the language to study German histor- proaching and with testing dates throughout the month of ical sources, watch German media and take advantage of in: it gives students the opportunity to maintain their skills May, it is important to use breaks to prepare for the stan- the very best German culture has to offer. while outside of class. They can then come back to school dardized tests. Well, I must be going now…. This is my ausfahrt! Wait, prepared to work and make a smooth transition back into By no means am I advocating for an obscene amount of why are you laughing? That’s German for “exit.” Don’t their daily academic routine. work over breaks, but some homework that is manageable laugh at my chosen language! Auf Wiedersehen! Furthermore, homework over break allows teachers to and meaningful is surely in the best interest of the students. The Lighthouse

10 OPINION February 2019

The Lighthouse Editorial Lyndhurst High School 400 Weart Avenue A message to Congress: #DoYourJob, or don’t get paid Lyndhurst, NJ 07071 201-896-2100 When the Constitution was cre- trol Act, which established the istration and air traffi c controllers If all of these repercussions do ated, the framers dedicated Ar- federal budget process utilized work without pay. Many agencies not drive members of Congress Check us out online: ticle 1, Section 6 to the topic of today, there have been 21 gov- such as the U.S. Food and Drug to fulfi ll their responsibilities, lighthouse.lyndhurstschools.net congressional pay. This section of ernment shutdowns. Half of those Administration work at a limited perhaps going without a pay- ______the Constitution reads: “The Sen- shutdowns occurred over a week- capacity since some employees check will serve as motivation. ators and Representatives shall end, according to Fox News, and are told not to come to work. As Knowing their pay is tied to the Adviser: receive a Compensation for their three of them have taken place a result, key FDA functions such passage of a budget will prompt Ms. Pastor Services, to be ascertained by during Donald Trump’s presiden- as routine facility inspections are legislators to work quickly and Law, and paid out of the Treasury cy. conducted on a limited basis. effi ciently to reach an agreement. Editors-in-Chief: of the United States.” A lengthy government shut- This is cause for alarm because Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, who Zully Arias This means that even during a down is very serious, and its ef- the quality of Americans’ food, represents New York’s 14th Dis- Emma Caamano government shutdown, the United fects can be felt by all Americans, and therefore their health, is in trict in the House of Representa- Managing Editors: States Department of the Treasury not just federal employees. jeopardy. Likewise, the FBI, tives, tweeted on Dec. 22: “It’s Carina Paserchia guarantees that every Congress- During a shutdown, Border Federal Emergency Management completely unacceptable that Nazli Tiyaloglu person receives payment for his Patrol agents, members of the Agency and National Park Ser- members of Congress can force or her work except in cases of Transportation Security Admin- vice are also affected. a government shutdown on par- Senior Editor: treason. tisan lines & then have Congres- Joana Kapaj So, as 800,000 federal employ- sional salaries exempt from that ees—many of whom live pay- decision. Have some integrity.” Webmasters: check to paycheck—have gone On Jan. 3, Former United Na- Adam Herabi without pay during the most tions Ambassador Nikki Haley Sean Leonard recent partial government shut- echoed Ocasio-Cortez’ senti- down, the people responsible for ments, tweeting, “Today the new Editors: passing a budget have received Congress takes offi ce. No mem- Alexa Barreiros ber should get paid while the gov- Robert Caamano compensation. This needs to Ambar Cabrera change. ernment is shut down and border Sebastian Cabrera While a member of Congress security is not funded.” Jamie Connors earns $174,000 annually and can Ending her tweet with “#DoY- Anthony DeMarco therefore go without a couple of ourJob,” Haley conveyed a mean- Brianna Giaimis paychecks, the average federal ingful message. If members of Gianna Glover employee who makes $65,833, Congress cannot agree on a bud- Somaia Hassan according to Glassdoor, will be get, they should bear the fi nancial Alicia Henrichsen less likely to handle the fi nancial consequences. This is the only Carley Martin hardship. way to assure that prompt and Erin Murgittroyd Since 1976, the year Congress consistent action will be taken Victoria Niedbal “The zoo is closed, but we’re still getting paid.” introduced the Congressional to avoid future shutdowns of the Kayla Sanchez Illustration by Jenna Freitas federal government. Lea Torppey Budget and Impoundment Con- Nick Zaino

Staff: Side-by-Side Sports Angelena Barcia Robert Bloom Alexa Borino Machado sweepstakes nears 6th man turns into MVP Campbell Donovan Andrew Estafanous At the conclusion of the 2011- Alyssa Ferrara end as Yankees sign Tulowitzki 2012 season, Harden and the Emma Ferschweiler kees since shortstop Didi Gre- Robert Thunder could not come to a con- Kevin Garcia gorius will be missing the start tract extension, so he was dealt to Iris Gonzales Nick Bloom the Houston Rockets on Oct. 27, Katrina Hauser of next season while rehabbing Staff Writer from Tommy John surgery, and 2012, which made all the differ- Jefferson Lima Zaino ence in Harden’s success. Alexa Maddi Editor over the last few months, there has been speculation that Mach- Since joining the Rockets in Maya Malizia 2012, Harden’s career has fl our- Hailey Mayewski ado would be heading to the Big James Harden of the Houston Matthew Nasr Apple. Rockets was the Sixth Man of the ished because he is no longer taking a backseat to Durant and Stephanie Oliveira In the never-ending offseason Machado could play shortstop Year during the 2011-2012 sea- Yaren Ozbay extravaganza between Manny until Gregorius returns and then son as a member of the Oklahoma Westbrook. The Beard has been Andrew Palma Machado and well, pretty much shift to third base, pushing the de- City Thunder. Fast forward six a six-time All Star, was an All- Joe Sandomenico every team in the league, it looks fensively defi cient Miguel Andu- years, and Harden is the MVP of NBA fi rst team selection four Alex Shapiro as if the New York Yankees— jar to a less defense-minded role. the 2017-2018 season. times and led the league in scor- Alexa Torres who were once thought to be the This would be a win for both After spending two seasons ing and assists. Most notably, he Nicolle Tyszka frontrunners to sign Machado— sides. Machado would receive his at Arizona State University, Jessica Zheng have suddenly lost interest. money and a winning team, and James Harden—also known as Harden’s career has Contributing Sending Machado the message the Yankees would most likely the Beard—was selected by the Artists & Photographers: that he is not a necessity, the Yan- get the best offensive threat on Oklahoma City Thunder as the fl ourished because he Jenna Freitas kees have signed former Colo- the free agency market. The Yan- third overall pick in the 2009 Mock Trial Team rado Rockies and Toronto Blue kees have the money to do it, but NBA draft. is no longer taking a Anthony Russo Jays shortstop Troy Tulowitzki. now it’s a matter of necessity. In only two seasons playing for A fi ve-time All-Star, Tulowitzki Can the Yankees maintain their the Sun Devils, Harden racked up backseat to Durant Garden State Scholastic Press was once the best shortstop in the 100 win status without Machado, many accolades. He was named and Westbrook. Association 1st Place Distinguished league, but that was back in 2010. or will he provide the boost to fi rst-team all PAC-10 twice, PAC- Journalism & 1st Place Overall Since then, he has been plagued help them surpass the Boston Red 10 Player of the Year and Con- Excellence, 2018 by injuries. Sox and Houston Astros? These sensus fi rst-team All-American. was named MVP last season, av- Machado is not out of the ques- are the questions general manager His number 13 was retired by his eraging 30.4 points, 5.4 rebounds 1st Place American Scholastic tion though, as the Yankees are Brian Cashman is asking himself, alma mater in 2017. and 8.8 assists. Press Association, 2018 far from bankrupt. They could and he has to be willing to pay Harden joined other young stars This season, Harden has stayed make a late push for Machado, upwards of $20 million to pique Kevin Durant and Russell West- in MVP form. He scored 42 but it would need to be paid as a Machado’s interest. brook when he was drafted by points in the Rockets’ 116-109 lump sum and include annuity. That fact right there might be the Thunder. During his rookie loss to the Milwaukee Bucks on Have He has been the focal point of too cringe-worthy for Cashman year, Harden was named NBA Jan. 9. Despite the loss, Harden this year’s offseason because alone, as he didn’t even pay Der- All-Rookie second team and av- extended his streak of 30-point there are very few offensively ek Jeter the type of money that eraged 9.9 ppg, along with re- games to 14, putting him right something gifted shortstops. Machado is asking for, and Jeter cording the fourth highest three behind soon-to-be Hall of Famer A four-time All-Star and two- is highly regarded as the best point percentage by a player un- Kobe Bryant who holds the re- TO SAY? time Gold Glove Award winner, shortstop ever to grace the fi eld. der the age of 21. cord with 16 consecutive 30 plus The Lighthouse is a free forum Machado is a career .282 hitter Is Cashman going to hand over After his rookie season, the point games. that accepts letters to the and has belted 175 home runs in between $25 and $29 million to Beard grew his legacy. Harden Harden broke Bryant’s record editors. Letters can be submitted his six year career. That means a guy who he doesn’t need? That would play his fi rst four seasons of 17 straight games with 30 or to Ms. Pastor in Room 234. he has averaged a whopping 29 would be foolish. as a member of the Thunder. In more points and fi nished the However, they must be signed home runs per year. Therefore, it is in Machado’s addition to winning the Sixth month averaging 43.6 points per with your fi rst and last name in The last shortstop to come close best interest to lower his asking Man of the Year award, he helped game. He is among many MVP order to be considered to that was Alex Rodriguez, and price so he could go to a team that his team reach the 2012 NBA Fi- candidates this season and is cer- for publication. he was mainly a third baseman. has a chance at winning it all in nals where they were defeated by tainly a favorite to win it for a The pressure is on for the Yan- 2019, and that is a fact. LeBron James’ Miami Heat. second consecutive season. The Lighthouse

February 2019 Sports 11 Hockey players With playoffs look towards state approaching, competition with high expectations girls basketball By Maya Malizia Staff Writer aims for success By Alex Shapiro The hockey team, which is co-oped with Staff Writer Hackensack and Paramus High Schools, had a record of 13-3-2 as of Feb. 3. With a 12-8 record as of Feb. 4, the Lady Sophomore Tyler McDowall, who has Bears hope to fi nish out their regular sea- played on the varsity team for two years, son strong and make strides in the playoffs. said he is optimistic as his team heads into Senior captain Angela Downey, who is the state playoffs. The Lighthouse’s Athlete of the Month, “This season is defi nitely better than said her team has the potential to go far in last,” McDowall said. “The chemistry is the extended season. there, and we are winning more and more.” “We just need to get into a good rhythm, He said one of the highlights of the sea- and we should be fi ne,” Downey said. son was winning against Northern High- “The most important thing on the court is lands High School, which won the state being positive and supporting each other, championship last year. LHS crushed the Photo by Anthony Russo and I feel like we do that well.” team with a 4-2 victory on Jan. 3. Paramus High School Junior Ryan Oechsner, who is a member of LHS’ co-op hockey Downey has made major contributions to “Beating Northern Highlands was such team, reaches for the puck during a game against Ramapo High School on Jan. 12 at the the team’s success this season. At an away a milestone, and it was something we Ice Vault in Wayne. game at New Milford High School on Dec. worked for all year,” McDowall said. 20, she broke the record for most three- Another highlight of the season occurred can show people who we are and that we “Hockey’s a lot different than other sports point shots in a single game. Then, on Dec. during a game on Jan. 18 against Bergen are a top team in New Jersey,” Oddo said. because I feel like in hockey, the players 30 during the Christmas Tournament at Catholic High School in which senior He said the players need to beat their have complete control over the game, and Marist High School in Bayonne, she broke co-captain Sean Leonard scored his 100th opponents to every puck and play smart it’s a lot of moving and not a lot of stop- LHS’ career record for three-point shots. goal. if they want to be successful in the state ping,” Engels said. Despite her accomplishments, Downey “I was very proud of him. He deserved playoffs. She said as long as the players maintain said she still has unfulfi lled goals she hopes it,” McDowall said. “I was excited because “It will defi nitely be a fi ght from the start their momentum, they have what it takes to to achieve before her LHS basketball days it was a goal against Bergen.” of the puck drop, and that’s why everyone win the state championship. come to a close. Junior Anthony Oddo, who has been on has to put everything they have into one of “I think the team is so successful because “[One] thing I’m looking to do, which the team for three seasons, said LHS has our biggest games this year,” Oddo said. they’re all so close in and out of hockey is going to be very hard, is to score 1,000 the drive to win the state championship be- Senior Alyssa Engels, a fan who attends and have a close-knit bond,” Engels said. career points,” Downey said. cause it has a lot to prove. most of the team’s games, said she likes “Everyone on the team is playing really Senior captain Jamie Connors, who is on “We are the underdog, and I think that we hockey because of its complexity. good, and I hope they keep on winning.” The Lighthouse staff, said she expects her team to make big moves in the playoffs. “Each player is capable of having a good Wrestlers ready to rumble as season draws to a close game, so we just need to work together and feed off of each other,” Connors said. By Andrew Palma dedication to this sport: all the hard work only be a junior next year, it’s in my best “We have to work on balancing plays and Staff Writer I put in, all the extra hours when no one is interest to keep improving my technique knowing when to shoot the ball yourself or watching,” Weaver said. and welcome the newcomers of next year to make the extra pass.” The Lyndhurst wrestling team, which He said he believes wrestling will play a like they did with me.” Connors said the girls are like sisters be- is co-oped with North Arlington High major role in his future. Hyaghi said the team’s training routines cause they spend so much time with each School, defeated Waldwick High School “I’ve been doing this sport my whole have been very rigorous. other. on Jan. 15, fi nishing with a score of 60-24. life, and it’s going to help me get to a good “Me being inexperienced and a heavy- “Coming off of some losses in the Christ- As of Feb. 3, the team’s record was 10-6-1. college where I can get a good degree to weight, it was diffi cult keeping up with mas Tournament [at Marist High School in The team, which is second in the North have a good life,” Weaver said. the kids, as most of them have either been Jersey Interscholastic Conference Division He said he expects everyone on his team, wrestling for some time or are on the more 1 standings, is doing particularly well con- himself included, to enhance their commit- nimble side of the spectrum,” Hyaghi said. “The most important thing on sidering there are only three senior wres- ment to the sport in order to reach the next “I thought I was gonna be crushing kids left tlers. level. and right, but that isn’t the case, and the the court is being positive and One of the biggest contributors to the “We have a bunch of tough guys on the sport requires a lot of technique and skills, supporting each other, and I team’s success is sophomore Dylan Weav- team. Honestly, if the guys on the team put and that’s something I hadn’t acquired.” er, who transferred from Bergen Catholic an offseason in, we could do big things He said an experience from this season feel like we do that well.” High School. In his debut on Jan. 5, Weav- next year,” Weaver said. “[Wrestling] is a that he will never forget was his fi rst match er won the Minutemen Classic Tournament very unique sport because of how mental- at the Minutemen Classic Tournament. in Elizabeth and was named Most Out- ly, physically and emotionally tough you “I remember telling myself, ‘Wow, this Bayonne] and the league, we are trying to standing Wrestler. have to be.” guy’s arms are huge.’ I remember fi ghting gel together and act more like a family,” Despite his impressive performance on He said the only way to understand the with all my willpower, and after a few min- Connors said. “As a captain, I always try to the mat, Weaver said the season has not complexity of the sport is to try it. utes, I ended up winning the match, mak- remain calm and tell my team to focus on been easy for him because he is always “The hard work wrestlers put in is not ing it my fi rst actual win of the season. It the game and block out any distractions.” trying to live up to his high expectations. something everyone can do,” Weaver said. felt like all my hard work paid off,” Hyaghi The team suffered a few tough losses in “I have to keep working hard so I can “It’s a fi ght for six to seven minutes.” said. the beginning of the season and had to play grow and improve in this sport,” Weaver Sophomore Sina Hyaghi, a fi rst-time Hyaghi said he has nothing but good without crucial team member senior Ange- said. “I have to prepare myself for the NJ wrestler, said even though he may not be things to say about new Head Coach Weav- lina DeCoro. state tournament.” as experienced as some others, he will do er, who took over the position after pre- Because of a wrist injury, her fi rst game of Regardless of how big the challenge is, all he can to help the team improve. vious Head Coach Collins decided not to the season was on Jan. 24 at home against Weaver said he is confi dent he can succeed “[There are] defi nitely some big shoes to reapply. New Milford High School. Even though because of his work ethic. fi ll when Victor [Jorge] and Derin [Stitzer] “Coach Weaver is a great coach who re- she missed two-thirds of the regular season “The biggest part of my success is my graduate,” Hyaghi said. “Although I’ll ally makes you push yourself because he games, she consistently showed up to sup- knows you can, and he goes on the mats port her teammates on the court. with us and teaches us how to wrestle and “Some of the hardest parts of being on the the right moves to use and when to use sidelines is seeing how some plays could them,” Hyaghi said. have gone differently and not getting as Sophomore stat keeper Alexia Jorge involved as the rest of the team,” DeCoro agreed that Weaver has done a good job said. “I try to explain to the team that we preparing the wrestlers to go up against have all been in a place where shots don’t their adversaries. fall or plays just don’t go our way…. It’s “Coach Weaver puts the athletes through not about who has the most points or re- great conditioning and great training to get bounds but about who’s getting to that next them ready to wrestle,” Jorge said. play even when it may seem hard.” Jorge is familiar with the sport because DeCoro described her team as deter- she wrestled for several years before mak- mined, and said she hopes to provide them ing the decision to devote her full attention with more motivation as playoffs approach. to baseball. “Every game from here on out really counts, and we should look at all the posi- Photo by Carina Paserchia “Wrestling is a hard sport, and once you have wrestled, everything else is easy,” tives rather than the negatives,” said DeC- Sophomore Dylan Weaver wrestles against an opponent from Bogota High School at a oro. home match on Jan. 9. said Jorge. The Lighthouse

12 SPORTS February 2019 Indoor track and Bowling team field reaches its wins league midseason dream By Alexa Borino championship Staff Writer By Carina Paserchia Managing Editor With legs shaking, sweat dripping and bodies aching, the girls 4x4 team raced Becoming the league champions and end- across the finish line to earn a top spot at ing their season with a record of 15-1, the the state relay meet in Toms River on Jan. bowlers have proven they are tough to beat. 17. After defeating St. Mary’s High School on After a long, strenuous day of running, the Jan. 24, the team climbed to No. 1 in the indoor track and field team arrived back in league. Lyndhurst with many new titles. Senior captain Eli Fitzsimons said the The girls 4x4 team—which consisted of bowlers’ biggest win was the comeback sophomore Gia Estrella, sophomore Mag- victory against North Arlington High gie Fodera, senior Susane Morozewicz School on Jan. 17 after having lost to them earlier in the season. “I expect them to finish “Last season was a rough one with the first loss in years, but this one is more excit- with their best results. We are working hardest for the “Bowling can be a stress biggest meets which are at reliever; watching the pins the end of the season.” explode off your ball can Photos by Emma Caamano be satisfying.” and senior Giulia Pezzolla—placed third. Sophomore Jerome Maillaro (left) and junior Danny Valencia (right) compete in the 4x4 The girls 4x200 team—which consisted of at the State Relays on Jan. 17 in Toms River. Estrella, Fodera, Morozewicz and senior ing because we communicated as a team,” Larissa Sales—placed fourth. Along with his team need to overcome in order to do results. We are working hardest for the Fitzsimons said. “This season is so much the runners, junior thrower Gabby Heath- well in competitive environments. biggest meets which are at the end of the better because of our team chemistry.” erly-Careri placed 21st and senior throw- “I have the responsibility of encouraging season,” Raczyk said. Senior Michael Lavell, who has been on er Ariana Lombardi placed third out of 55 my teammates to do [their] best,” Singh Fodera said she believes a strong work the team since he was a freshman, agreed throwers. said. “At the start line of the race, I some- ethic and dedication will lead the team to with Fitzsimons. The team members are now looking to- times have a challenge with being mentally finish strong. “Compared to last season, this season is wards the upcoming league and state meets confident when I see other competitors at “No matter what we have to run at prac- surprisingly less difficult because we got a that will go from Feb. 3 to Feb. 24 where the meet.” tice or a meet, we always get through it fresh new start and most things are work- they hope to come home with more wins. Throwing Coach Rasczyk said consisten- and try our best,” Fodera said. “We expect ing in our favor,” Lavell said. Senior captain and runner Maninder cy is key to the team’s success. nothing less than what we are capable of He said over the past few months, he has Singh said self-doubt is an obstacle he and “I expect them to finish with their best every time we step on the track.” learned an important life lesson that will stick with him long after he graduates. “When faced with anything, you will have more success when you are enjoying With season over, senior swimmers wave goodbye what you are doing instead of getting frus- By Victoria Niedbal part of the team for three years, said hav- Junior Yara Attia, who has been on the trated or upset,” Lavell said. Editor ing only 14 boys on the team presented a swim team for two years, said the team’s Junior Joe Cutola, who joined the team his challenge. daily workouts—which included sprints, sophomore year, said he would describe As the school day wound down on Jan. “Some had to step up and do new events drills and dry land practices—were ardu- his teammates as intimidating because 22, swimmers made their way into the that they may not have been comfortable ous, but they also brought the athletes to- they have strong skills and know how to cool, chlorine scented pool. They headed with, but they still tried their best even if gether, creating a tight-knit family. get the job done. He said they have gained into the locker rooms to throw on their we didn’t win every meet or race,” Skwara “Every year we become closer,” Attia confidence this season, which has led them caps and goggles for their final dual meet said. said. “The bond between the team makes to put in more effort and stay calm even of the season. Skwara, who will be graduating in June, everything we work for twice as memora- during stressful situations. For the girls, this meet against Harrison said the lessons he learned from being part ble.” “Even if you’re down, you have to keep High School ended in victory, whereas for Senior captain Jillian Tkaczyk said she going and grind it out,” Cutola said. the boys, it marked the final defeat during a will always cherish the friendships she has He said the team’s improved attitude tough season. The girls ended their season “The bond between the team formed with her fellow swimmers. can also be attributed to their new mentor, with a 4-3 record, while the boys closed up makes everything we work for “They make swim fun for me even if I Coach Offitto. the season going 1-5. am having a terrible day,” Tkaczyk said. “Our coach guides us to victory by pro- Head Coach Frew said the team spent twice as memorable.” “Many of the new kids who just joined this viding good vibes and high fives,” Cutola the winter season rebuilding since five stu- year have become so close to me, and it’s said. dents graduated last year and others went of the swim team will be helpful as he be- sad that I only got to swim with them for a He said bowling is a special sport be- on to join other winter sports. gins the next chapter in his life. few months.” cause it can empower people of all ages. “The girls had a lot of surprising wins “If you fail one time or don’t do as good While having pasta dinners the day be- “Young or old, you can bowl. When you with points spread over 60 points,” Frew as you thought you were going to do, you fore a meet or beating a personal or school go to a bowling alley, you see little kids said. “It was very surprising that they can always pick yourself back up by work- record stand out in some swimmers’ and senior citizens bowling,” Cutola said. pulled out as many wins as they have this ing hard and trying again,” Skwara said. minds, Tkaczyk said it is the people who “Bowling can be a stress reliever; watch- season.” “Never give up, even if you may be swim- have made her LHS swim experience truly ing the pins explode off your ball can be Senior Konrad Skwara, who has been ming in last place.” unforgettable. satisfying.” Boys basketball strives to continue its winning ways By Campbell Donovan team,” Das said. School in Newark, said the team in the past has really shaped me “It is my job to keep the team Staff Writer He said his greatest memory needs to begin its games with into a better player,” McMann calm and collected in close con- from this season is the team’s 76- more energy and effort. said. tests or bad situations. If some- With a record of 10-9 as of Feb. 68 victory against rival Secaucus “I think we sometimes come off During challenging times on the one gets down on themselves, 4, the boys basketball players are High School at an away game on to a slow start in the first five min- court when a play goes wrong or it’s mine and the other captain’s hoping to improve upon their Jan. 8. utes, but once the second quarter job to pick them up and move ability to start games strong and “It was our best game, and ev- comes, we go on a huge run,” “Battling with top tier on,” Podolski said. finish them even stronger. eryone played as one unit,” Das McMann said. Like McMann, Podolski said Senior captain Sid Das said the said. He said his greatest accom- programs in the past he loves the thrill of playing team needs to come out swinging Senior guard Billy McMann plishment as an athlete is being competitive basketball. from the first whistle so that op- recently played his first game of able to compete against any op- has really shaped me “The most satisfying thing in ponents have no opportunity to the season due to the NJSIAA ponent. basketball has to be winning a take the lead. transfer rules, which required him Since he came from one of the into a better player.” close game, mainly because “We tend to start off slow but to sit out the first 30 days of the top basketball schools in New two teams can get highly emo- then explode during the second competitive season. Jersey, McMann has experience a foul is committed, senior cap- tional in certain moments and quarter. We don’t have a lot of Like Das, McMann, who being a fierce competitor. tain Brian Podolski steps in to team chemistry is key for us,” big men, so we are a fast-paced transfered from Christ The King “Battling with top tier programs help his teammates. said Podolski.