NORTHWEST PASSAGES VOLUME XLVIII Northwest Catholic, 29 Wampanoag Drive, West Hartford, Connecticut 06117 November 2010 Father DesBois Shares His Life Work With Northwest Catholic Students By Abby Johnson was played for the audience stories of witnesses he met that documents, the team learned that Although they are old and frail, members. It was a segment taken held the audience in continual the Nazis collected the Jews living their experiences and personal Of all the wars between countries, from an NBC News broadcast in focus. Father DesBois began by in the regional area. Once accounts of what went on in of all the battles fought in by which anchorwoman, Ann Curry, explaining the momentum behind organized, villagers were forced these fields so long ago still play a soldiers, of all the horrific events interviewed the same Father this project. DesBois’ grandfather by the Nazis to dig enormous major role in discovering the caused by man, the Holocaust DesBois who would take the was sent to a Ukraine soviet grave sites, one of which they truth. has been viewed as one of the podium in a few minutes. The prison in July of 1942. “I would uncovered measured 63 meters When Father DesBois had very worst. The dictatorship of video, although long and was finished, he invited the students Adolf Hitler and his Nazi short, filled with about to ask him questions. Many followers led to the overthrowing introduced the 52,000 corpses. students from every grade raised of European countries, main topic of One by one, Jews thought provoking questions destruction of businesses and discussion which were ushered to which he took time to answer most horrific, the murders of Father DesBois the edge of the individually. “65 years after the nearly 6 million Jewish people. would be pits, shot in the events, we are still learning what Most students in the world have elaborating on. back of the head, happened,” Father DesBois spent part of their history or During World and pushed into stated. Junior, Chris Lynch, social studies classes studying this War II, 1.3 the grave where asked if it was difficult for Father gruesome part of history, known million Jews they would be DesBois not to judge the as the Holocaust. They have seen disappeared in buried. “The law survivors he interviewed, for the pictures of concentration Ukraine. The was for every many had sold out their Jewish camps, and read the story of areas in which one Jew there friends to affirm their own safety. Anne Frank. However, few know they vanished could only be Father DesBois answered, “It is the stories of victims who were from were a one bullet,” not for me to judge, it is for me to murdered in mass shootings grouping of Father DesBois establish the truth. It is not my

outside of these camps in areas small villages Sebastian Skarba shared. “So you challenge to force these people to such as Ukraine. spread see, to save their repent but it is my challenge to For this reason, Father Patrick throughout the Father DesBois (center) poses in NWC’s front lobby with Principal bullets, many listen to them, even if they are a DesBois, a French priest from country, which Williamson, Superintendent Hoyt (right), and representatives from the Jews were family of killers.” Burgundy, has made it his did not keep Holocaust Museum. pushed into the The work of Father Patrick mission to uncover these formal record or documentation ask him, ‘What was it like to live graves without being shot and DesBois sees no limit in time and accounts and share them with the of what occurred in their in these camps?’ but my buried alive.” He recalled has reached far beyond gaining world. On Monday, September communities. Years later, Father grandfather stayed quiet, never interviewing one Ukrainian back the dignity and honor of his 27th, 2010, Father DesBois made Patrick DesBois led a group of revealing anything other than woman who said that she had grandfather. He and his team are a special appearance at Catholic historians, philosophers, ‘Inside the camp was horrible, but been five years old when she was giving back justice and humanity Northwest Catholic for an and volunteers to Ukraine in the outside world was worse.’ ” pushed into the mass graves. She to the forgotten bones of the assembly like no other. The hopes of unearthing what really Father DesBois admitted he did was able to pull herself out by Ukranian fields. Father DesBois students and faculty of went on in those foreign fields so not fully understand his clutching roots of a tree but concluded his time at Northwest Northwest Catholic were not the long ago. What they uncovered grandfather’s message until he claims she still remembers seeing Catholic with brief wisdom. “I only audience members present at shocked not only the entire the took the initiative and went out the graves move, rising and falling don’t know which roads you this event. The Superintendent of Northwest Catholic auditorium, to search for the reasoning as victims such as herself, worked cross in your life. One day maybe Catholic Schools, Mr. Dale Hoyt but the whole world. himself. DesBois and his team to claw their way out from the you will go to school, into the and representatives from the After a brief introduction, Father went door to door in these Jewish corpses. In all, Father army, or to fight in Iraq. Holocaust Museum in DesBois took the microphone. Ukrainian towns and soon Patrick DesBois believes he has Remember you are never alone Washington, D.C. attended to His thick French accent caught learned about the mass shootings interviewed at least 1,500 people with good and evil, take a few listen to this inspirational man. the attention of his listeners but it in the killing fields. Through eye who lived in the villages during minutes with God to choose the After they were seated, a video was his personal story and the witness accounts and old the time of the mass killings. right way for you.” Principal and Chief Administrator Mrs. Williamson Wins Prestigious Award By Agata Harabasz award,” said Mr. Hoyt. “Her Mrs. Williamson has helped fulfill she also helps encourage spiritual biggest fan! Her devotion will exceptional grasp of Catholic NWC’s spiritual and educational growth in the student body with continue with the upcoming 50th Margaret Williamson, Principal school education and her needs since 1987 when she joined programs such as the “Fire, anniversary of NWC and the and Chief Administrator of proficiency as an administrator the school community as Vice Praise, and Worship” prayer Capital Campaign tied with this Northwest Catholic High School, make her an excellent choice. Her Principal of Academics. In 2000, group, which meets the second event. has been named the Archdiocesan longevity of service and her she was named Principal and Friday of every month. She also Mrs. Williamson will formally Distinguished Principal for the later, in 2009, also took up helped to coordinate the receive her award in January 2011, 2010-2011 school year. the role of Chief production of the school during Catholic Schools Month. This award has been presented in Administrator. Some of recruitment video, incorporate She has also been nominated for the past to Catholic School Mrs. Williamson’s everyday unified sports into NWC, and the Distinguished Principal principals who have shown responsibilities include: promote diversity within the Award through the National devotion and dedication to their supervising and evaluating school community. What inspires Catholic Education Association school. To be considered, a faculty members, maintaining Mrs. Williamson to do such a in Washington, DC. The entire principal must create a positive an excellent curriculum, great job? Her inspiration comes NWC community is proud to learning environment, set high developing and monitoring from the students: “It’s all about have such a caring and devoted expectations for students and school budget, overseeing the the students. I come to work principal and sends out its help them reach these Administration and happy everyday knowing that I congratulations. expectations, and fulfill their Advancement offices, and make a difference, and I enjoy school philosophies. Only those promoting NWC’s numerous being a part of this.” who show exceptional dedication athletic activities. In addition to working to make a INSIDE This Edition ... to their schools and bring Despite all of her difference inside NWC, Mrs. dedication, enthusiasm, and responsibilities, Mrs. Williamson also takes part in Catholic Youth Spectacular passion to their role as Williamson still finds ways other community oriented ... Pg. 3

administrators are considered. Alex McKenzie (and the time) to go beyond endeavors. She is an active “They are faith-filled educators in what is expected of a member of the Connecticut the Catholic tradition as well as principal/chief Association of Catholic School Fall One Act ... Pg. 4 lifelong learners, making Mrs. Williamson poses for a photo-op in administrator. She has Presidents, Principals, and professional contributions to her office. worked to integrate Superintendents, and even served NYC ... Pg. 5 their school and to the dedication to Northwest Catholic technology, such as smart boards as the President of the group Archdiocese,” said Mr. Dale R. are both outstanding; she models and new computers, into every from 2006-2008, and will again Freshmen ... Pgs. 6 & 7 Hoyt, Superintendent of Catholic the best qualities of Catholic classroom, to establish a from 2010-2012. She also actively Schools for the Archdiocese of school leadership. She has a Professional Learning takes part in several Office of Hartford. The award has genuine care for her students that Community, and to encourage a Catholic School committees. Inside Out ... Pg. 8 required Mrs. Williamson’s permeates all she does, and she is growth in faith among faculty Currently she serves on the attendance at many recent events, truly ‘present’ to the NWC members. She started the Connecticut Interscholastic Point-Counterpoint: such as the Hope Dinner, during community at all times.” tradition of discussing “First Athletic Conference (CIAC) which she was presented as the “It never, never even crossed my Things First,” a program during Board of Control and on several Mosque at Ground Zero ... winner of the award. mind that I was being considered which basic Catholic beliefs are of the CIAC’s committees. Pg. 9 “Margie is the first secondary for such an award,” said Mrs. presented during each faculty Her dedication is unquestionable, administrator in the Archdiocese Williamson. “I was stunned when meeting. In addition to as one is sure to see her at any Sports ... Pgs. 10-12 ever to receive this prestigious I found out this summer!” strengthening NWC’s teachers, NWC event. She is NWC’s Page 2 Northwest Catholic November 2010 COMMENTARY Dear Delilah LETTER FROM THE CHIEF ADMINISTRATOR Dear Delilah, What does it mean to be a challenge each of us to look at daunting task but justice begins I’m a freshman and things are “mission driven“ school? Our this mission and admit which at home. Are there things you see going pretty well right now. I’ve school’s Mission Statement is part is hardest for us and that you could fix among your made some friends but I wish there printed in the Student consciously decide to focus on peers? Can you stand up for was a way I could get to know Handbook, shown on the web improving in that area. If your what is right and fair in front of some other people other than the site, and posted in many places grades need work – then get others? Try to look at things with ones I have in my classes. I really around the school. If that is all BUSY! If you need to work on a thoughtful attitude and you will hope to form a good group of tight the Mission is, then we are not your own faith development then be surprised at what you can friends. Got any advice? true to it. This year, which has think about what could help that accomplish. Sincerely, Learning the Ropes started out so strong and area along and ask people to help In addition to our Mission positive, we are seeking to be you with it. Will participating Statement, NWC also subscribes Dear Learning the Ropes, intentional about our Mission – differently at various services to a self-imposed Statement of Cara Seward High school is a big step up that means paying attention to it make a difference? Is service the Values which further enhances Mrs. Williamson from middle school and it will and connecting all that we do to key for you? Think about it. our Mission. In particular, I take some time to adjust. Kids the Mission. How do we do that? Each year it is most interesting to would point out three areas that become engaged in what is going are coming in from all different Let’s think of the Mission in see how various students step up expand upon the mission on around you then you cannot school systems and towns so segments: college prep, faith and show their leadership skills. statement. These are “respect”, miss at implementing the Mission there will be some people who building, spiritual, academic and If you are shy about this aspect “personal identity,” and and Values of our school and come in already established with physical excellence, leadership, of your personality then pair up “community”. Our school you will make yourself a better a group of friends and some service, and the promotion of with a friend and be more vocal exemplifies these characteristics person. Each one of us matters, people who don’t know anyone. justice. While academics are about things you care about. but only when everyone works and just as Blessed Teresa of Keep in mind that for the first challenging, they are also the Offer to help a teacher or a together to promote them. We Calcutta shined the light of few months of school, your most obvious thing we can all moderator or a coach. You will be must respect ourselves and one Christ in the darkness – you will freshman classmates are also work on. Each of us will find amazed at the difference it will another to have a quality too if you think about what you trying to figure out the social other parts of the mission that make and the skills that you will community atmosphere. If this do and realize that you are in a scene. It is important to come easily to us and then there use. The “promotion of justice in occurs, then everyone’s personal special place that turns out very remember to stay true to your are parts that are harder. I a global world” sounds like a identity will be validated. If you special young people. own personality and don’t try too hard to impress other people or change who you are in order LETTER FROM THE EDITOR-IN-CHIEF to make friends. Don’t worry about forcing a group to come Normalcy is in the eye of the normal, one must conform. This cutter people that started out all abnormal, because normalcy does together; be open to meeting lots beholder. Everywhere we go, we would be ignored; normalcy the same. The abnormal people not exist. There are just different of different kinds of people in all hear about whether or not would not be given another would then had to have broken kinds of people who behave, grades. A great way to do this is behaviors, or even people, are thought, if it weren’t for the out of this shell. Even if this were dress, and talk in different kinds to get involved! Join a club, go normal. But what is “normal”? negative connotations associated the case, the normal ones would of ways. on a school trip, try out for a According to the dictionary, to be with the word “abnormal.” have to be pitied and the team, or run for a student normal is to conform to the Some people worry too much abnormal admired for their government position. If you join standard or the common type. about being abnormal. They courage. Staff an activity that you love, you will But this makes one wonder where think about every move they If no one is normal, that makes Editor in Chief find that the other people these standards came from. The make and judge “What will everyone abnormal, but then if Alex McKenzie involved share that interest with answer is no one knows. The part people think if I do/say this?” But the standard is that everyone is of this definition that most jumps the thing is everyone is abnormal. abnormal, doesn’t that make us Editorial Staff you. The school is full of Elizabeth Allen amazing people; don’t be afraid out is the words “to conform.” There is not one person in the all normal? This becomes quite Nicholas Italia to introduce yourself! We are all told our entire lives to entire world that is normal in the cycle to be stuck in and can Allie Lamari Sincerely, Delilah be unique, to be ourselves; that it every aspect. Everyone has their overwhelm your mind if thought Emmakate Mortillaro doesn’t matter if we’re different own little quirks that make them about too much. The truth is it is Kate Schuppe from everyone else. Yet according unique. In order for anyone to be much simpler than one would Dear Delilah, Staff Writers I’m on a fall sports team and love to the dictionary in order to be normal, we’d have to be cookie think. No one is normal or Elizabeth Allen it! I put in a lot of effort during Haleigh Beckerman practices but I’m not getting much Dillon Bowen COMMENTARY Francis Butler playing time and I don’t think it is Mara Case fair! What should I do? What was the first book you ever cringe at the idea of desperately Many will argue that the point is Haley Derlinga Sincerely, Bench Warmer The Cat in the Hat Angela DiFrancesco read? maybe? trying to find a plotline or not to like what we read, but Gabrielle Giangreco The Little Engine that Could? comprehending what we take in. rather to become a more cultured Dear Bench Warmer, Jordan Greenberg Whatever that first book was, Of course, The Time Traveler’s and informed student. Consider Agata Harabasz Being part of a team can have its you read it for fun. For practice, Wife is not written in the same the Harry Potter series. If one Nicholas Italia high points and its challenges. yes, and to improve your reading. complicated language as Uncle looked closely, one could find a Abby Johnson Depending on what level you Stephanie Koldras But essentially, you read for fun. Tom’s Cabin, and may be more plethora of literary devices, such play on, the requirements and Allie Lamari There were no notes to take, no enjoyable and easier to as tone, style, imagery, structure. expectations for earning play Cara Ledwidge terms to write down, no dates understand. However, we feel that We could find the theme, thesis, Sadie Martinez time differ. Generally, JV teams and lists of names to keep track same reluctance to reading either and purpose of the novel easily. Alex McKenzie will try to give everyone some of. When you were five, Where the book. It seems impossible for us Any Harry Potter fan could Sean Morris time on the field for experience Emmakate Mortillaro Wild Things Are was about a boy to read a book without feeling probably take a quiz of Mrs. but Varsity typically plays its Teddie Mucha named Max playing with like we have to. While high school Juda’s caliber, complete with one most successful players the most. Traci Parker monsters. Now, in the world of English and history have given us word quotes, and easily pass. Meghan Peterson Don’t let this get you down! Tell high school, AP classes, and a better, more complete That fan is so excited and Kate Schuppe your coach you would like to higher level thinking, the understanding and awareness of energized by reading Harry Haley Seward talk with them after practice and Sarah Visintainer simplicity of Where the Wild everything we read, the actual act Potter, a book of their choice, be honest. Let them know that Things Are is now an allegory for of reading has become that they were able to understand you are excited to be playing on Contributing Photographers mankind’s resistance to grow up. overwhelming. We feel everything without consciously Kathleen Connelly the team and are committed to That reading for fun thing has intimidated by the prospect of paying attention to literary en.academic.ru making it a great season. Instead been thrown out the window. reading a difficult book, of devices used throughout the kevinmweeks.com of accusing them of treating you Alex McKenzie Unfortunately, high school grasping every bit of symbolism, novel. So, is reading in high unfairly, introduce the subject by Kate Molloy changes the way we read. Rather imagery, and figurative language. school a terrible thing? Of course asking what you can do better in Mr. Mucha than reading for fun, we now We become concerned over trying not. Our classes give us valuable pursuitist.com practice to earn more play time read to get it done. We read to connect every point made in insight that we may not have rioni.com during games. Be open to the because we are told to. We read the book rather than enjoying the otherwise picked up on our own. Mrs. Schwartz critiques your coach gives you Cara Seward because we have to. We no longer story that the author wants to The homework, tests, and quizzes and don’t be afraid to follow up Sebastian Skarba have the time to sit down and convey to us. reinforce what we learn and help later, asking them how they sportscasternews.com read a book because we want to, Reading for fun is difficult achieve a higher level of believe you are doing since you usually because the historical enough when there is no time to understanding. Unfortunately, it Advisor last talked. Coaches notice your documents, physics chapters, and do it. But the task of reading a has also become a grind rather Mrs. Jennifer Montoney attitude towards the game even Jane Eyre demand our immediate book that may be neither than a hobby, more of a reluctant when you don’t believe they see Northwest Passages attention. While the idea of interesting nor easy to task than a relaxing pastime. As you so make sure to keep a Northwest Catholic High School reading might have once sparked understand, combined with the much as I have learned from 29 Wampanoag Drive positive outlook and cheer on an interest, the thought of homework, quizzes, and tests to reading Beowulf and The Odyssey, West Hartford, CT 06117 the players that are competing. reading The Time Traveler’s Wife evaluate our level of I still long for times when I could Phone: (860) 236-4221 That way when you get play Fax: (860) 586-0911 may elicit the same feeling as comprehension, is quite daunting. pick up Lyle, Lyle, Crocodile and time, you will have the whole reading Uncle Tom’s Cabin might: The demand of having to get it all enjoy the company of a friendly team supporting you and one Northwest Passages benefits directly dread. We dread the long pages, done, AND understanding and green reptile, rather than having fromthe William J. Kerin ‘65 Fund, happy coach! the small font, the lengthy and retaining it to at least pass the to analyze the author’s use of established by Cathleen Collins ‘65. Sincerely, Delilah sometimes (or most times) quiz the next day doesn’t leave rhyme in the title. Those were the * Editor’s Note: Opinions expressed in Northwest unnecessary descriptions. We time to actually enjoy the book. days. Passages are not necessarily those of the editorial staff November 2010 Northwest Catholic Page 3 NEWS Students Rally to Celebrate Youth Spectacular NWC Works For Accredidation By Haley Seward theme of this year’s youth people brought footballs and By Haley Derlinga The accreditation process itself is spectacular was “Walking with frisbees and enjoyed the vast and very in depth, examining every The 2010 Catholic Youth the Saints.” The opening greatly beautiful fields of the seminary This year, Northwest Catholic is aspect of life at Northwest. The Spectacular was held at the reflected this theme. Each group and the great weather. Even in the process of receiving first part is a “self-study”. Mr. beautiful grounds of Saint attending had a part in the though the sun didn’t shine, it accreditation from the New Cusson, the chair for Northwest Thomas Seminary on September procession and signs were carried was a comfortable fall day and England Association of Schools Catholic’s accreditation this year, 12, 2010. The rain clouds that with pictures of saints while the perfect for being active. The day and Colleges for the 4th time. started our self study last January lingered in the sky all day held other people sang “When the ended with a beautiful mass led Our school was first accredited in and Mrs. Williamson anticipates off, providing everyone with a Saints Go Marching In.” After by Archbishop Mansell. The 1971, and has been a member of the completion of it by the spring perfect day to spend outside. The the opening with prayer, song, music for the Mass was sung by the NEASC ever since. The of 2011. That time period Youth Spectacular was a great and some talk about the day, the XAudio and Jesse and the accreditation which takes place cumulates to a year and a half of way to spend a day with friends, youth were free to experience the participants were all given song every ten years ensures that the intense self-study, as Mr. Cusson, new and old, and to have a fun day. One of the best parts of the sheets to sing along. It was so school is giving us, as the along with other administrators, and spiritual day. In attendance day was the speaker, Jesse inspiring to have Mass outside students, the best education teachers and staff looked over all were Mrs. Gillespie, Mrs. Manibusan. His humor, song, with the beautiful scenery of the possible. parts of Northwest, from the and story trees and building. All of the Accreditation by the NEASC is a building itself to the curriculum provided for a youth were able to receive voluntary process that and even to our Mission highly enjoyable communion and pray together strengthens a schools reputation. Statement and Statement of and interactive during the Mass. Northwest Values. That’s right; our new experience for Catholic really shined at the and modernized Mission all of the youth closing of the Mass when the Statement is part of the and adults. band played the song we all know accreditation! Regarding Jesse, and love, “Here I Am to After the self-study, a visiting Mrs. Bournique Worship” and every NWC team will come to Northwest in said that he student sang it out, making Mrs. October of 2011. Mrs. “had a message Gillespie very proud. Mrs. Williamson, having been a part about being Bournique said that, “the of such teams for other schools, Catholic that participation of the thousands of says “They will come in and Northwest Archives seemed to really youth and youth ministers in validate what we say we do, not Kathleen O’Hara ‘11, Allie Lamari ‘11, Molly move the young attendance made the Mass to impose things, and that we are Berning ‘11, Emily Janusko ‘11, and Brynn Stoecklin people extraordinary.” The message that doing the things we say we do.” ‘11 enjoy a beautiful day at the seminary. attending, He was to be taken away from this The team consists of teachers was a humble “spectacular” day was that we are and administrators from other Bournique, Deacon Santos, and man of deep faith who gave an all called to be saints in our own schools in the NEASC, as well as Northwest Archives Mrs. Williamson who kindly gave unpretentious account of how he way and it seemed that the youth a representative from the state of up their day to have the came to a career in singing and really took the message to heart Northwest Catholic celebrates its Connecticut. experience with the students. The speaking to young people about and were inspired by the whole dedication fifty years ago. This team will then make students in attendance included being Catholic.” Mrs. Gillespie day. Sophomore, Erin Morris, recommendations, most of the ACTS class, the HILL class, commented on his charisma and found the amount of youth that The school also becomes and which are hoped to be the ones and any other students who based on the laughter of the came together to pray and have remains a member of the we want them to make. After all, wished to come and enjoy the crowd, it seems like he really fun was inspiring, while fellow NEASC. In order to keep this if the NEASC wants the same day. The Northwest Catholic connected. Other than Jesse’s sophomore, Dan Pitruzzella, was high standard, a school must thing that the school does, it is students took a school bus over speech, the attendees participated moved by the outdoor Mass. show improvement and much more likely to happen. For to the seminary in Bloomfield and in many other activities and made Both thoroughly enjoyed the consistency in all fields including example, ten years ago, they started the day off by setting up up some of their own. The speaker, Jesse as well. Senior those that are academic, social, recommended a new library and at a designated spot and then seminary had many priests Cara Seward loved the “upbeat and civil. As a private school, we media center, obviously benefiting having some free time to explore hearing confession so that all the feeling of the day and the energy are part of and will be everyone in the school. However, the grounds and the building attendees could go and they also that came from the kids that accreditated by a specific division “Sometimes they come up with itself. The architecture of the set up an amazing walking rosary attended.” She was touched by of the NEASC and held to [ideas] you don’t even think of!” building is truly magnificent. The on the tennis court. The rosary the “response of the kids to the specific standards, best expressed remembers Mrs. Williamson. In band, XAudio, was already up was an interactive way of going songs, speakers, and the mass.” in the NEASC Independent 2001, we didn’t have lunch waves. and playing on the outdoor stage through the Luminous Mysteries Spending time with her friends Schools Mission statement: “They [the team] said we had upon arrival. All of the youth and learning more about the and God in such a positive “We are dedicated to fostering great programs (having recently were given a scavenger hunt sheet inspiring lives of saints. Different environment proved to be a educational excellence and built the Breen Center for the full of trivia around the seminary. organizations, schools, and quality way to spend a Sunday. institutional improvement in New Arts), but no opportunities for Everyone went searching for the parishes attended this event and The 2010 Catholic Youth England independent schools and students to have a break and eat.” answers while interacting with had booths set up for the youth Spectacular was an unforgettable to honoring their diversity. To So, in fall of 2002, lunch waves each other. The day officially to explore. Not only were there experience that brought together this end, we shepherd each of our came to NWC. The started with the opening activities made up by the leaders all who attended, with one schools through a voluntary recommendations made as part procession and prayer. The of the youth spectacular, but another and with God. accreditation process that is of the accreditation, always structured around carefully benefit the school. NWC Scholars Recognized for Academic Achievement considered standards, self- By Angela Di Francesco Honor are the students who Huehner ’10, Allie Lamari ’11, evaluation, peer review, and averaged a 3.25 on all of their AP Merideth Lathrop ’10, Madeleine follow-up by the school.” Northwest Catholic is proud to Exams. In addition, they scored Livingston ’10, Kathleen Lynch You may inquire, “Why does announce a record-breaking at least a 3 on four or more of ’10, Kelsey Marakovits ’10, this matter?” According to Mrs. number of AP Scholars. These their AP exams. These students Joseph McAndrews ’10, Thomas Williamson, “Accreditation is are students who have displayed are: Dillon Bowen ’11, Mary Noll ’11, and John Sullivan ’11. very important to a school, academic excellence in their In addition to AP [because] an independent agency AP classes and have scored Scholar awards, several is stating that our school meets exceptionally well on their Northwest students important criteria.” AP Exams. The award is received National Merit Northwest Catholic is part of a divided into three parts: awards. These awards specific division of the NEASC AP Scholars, AP Scholars include a National which accreditates independent with Honor, and AP Merit Semi –Finalist, schools in a slightly different Northwest Archives The cross is placed in the front of Scholars with Distinction. Alex McKenzie, a way. These include Catholic Northwest Catholic A few students were even National achievement and private schools which are mentioned in their town Semi-Finalist, Dionne accredited differently from public Although it is too early in the newspaper, being May, and the schools. accreditation process to say what congratulated for their Commended Scholars, She also points out that is expected to be recommended, efforts in the Advanced Sharon Grimshaw, “Although [accreditation] is Mrs. Williamson says, “Over the

Placement program. Kathleen Connelly Rosa Park, Christopher voluntary, any school which next few months, this will come The AP Scholars with Kuhlberg, Tom Knoll, wants to be considered a “good” together and we will send surveys Distinction are the Six Northwest seniors are recognized for their academic and John Sullivan, all school would wish to be on various topics to students and students that achieved an success. ’11. accredited.” Mrs. Williamson parents” which will help to average grade of 3.5 on each of Frailey ’10, Sharon Grimshaw To be recognized by the National knows that colleges care about determine what we need. their AP Exams taken. In ’11, Nicole Lacouture ’10, Merit Scholarship Programs accreditation too: “It is important Mr. Cusson, as the chair of addition, they scored at least a 3 Nathaniel Lombard Poirot ’10, means that the student performed for students to come from fully NWC’s accreditation and the on at least 5 of their AP exams. and Rosa Park ’11. exceptionally well on the PSATs. accredited institutions” for most, administration, especially Mrs. These students are: Michael The AP scholars are students From here, students can enter the if not all colleges. Accreditation Williamson, are working hard to Deneen ’10, Michael Freund ’10, who received a score of 3 or more program in hopes of being not only cements a school’s make sure that NWC is at the James Italia ’10, Patrick Kearney on at least 3 of their AP exams. recognized. These students are reputation, but also provides highest possible academic, social ’10, Luke Pelton ’10, Emily Peters These students are: Nicholas commended for their academic recommendations for and civic standards but they will ’10, Alexander M. Picciano ’10, Calitri ’10, Jei Cho ’10, Connor excellence in the National Merit improvements that may or may need your help. Mrs. Williamson William Read ’10, and Devon Deneen ’10, Caroline Garger ’10, Program. Congratulations to all not have been foreseen by the said it best: “It will definitely be a Soucier ’10. The AP Scholars with Kaitlyn Giblin ’10, Daniel of the award-winning students! school. busy few months.” Page 4 Northwest Catholic November 2010 NEWS Northwest Undergoes Summer Renovations NWC Welcomes Mr. Luddy By Francis Butler and 800 hallways in order to safer for the student body and By Jordan Greenberg makes Music Theory easy to repair and refurbish this part of the crowds of fans that use them understand.” In regards to the When students walked into the school, where most of the during Basketball Season. In The Northwest Catholic Music Wind Ensemble class, Dan says Northwest this September they classes are held throughout the addition, the Town of West Department welcomes an exciting that the new teacher is “still were pleasantly surprised to see a day. Hartford resurfaced Wampanoag new addition to their staff. Mr. whole set of brand new lockers However, while the lockers were Drive and widened the road near Daniel Luddy, an alumnua of installed upon the walls of the most apparent renovation Main Street to make a right-turn Northwest Catholic, is the new school. The locker company who around the school this year, lane to make the flow of traffic Director of Bands. installed the lockers first removed technology has been updated steadier and organized out of the For the past year, Mr. Luddy has the old yellow and blue lockers throughout the school. The Art school parking lot throughout been the Monday Night Jazz and installed the new green and Room was also renovated and the day, especially after school Band director. The Monday white ones. Mrs. Williamson said update with a new Mac Lab. Since and at the end of school events Night Jazz Band meets one night that the administration decided to the programs that are available throughout the year. each week and serves as a replace the lockers this year for visual and graphic arts on a wonderful experience for students because the old lockers had been Mac are more advanced than 2010-2011 interested in jazz music. Mr. in the school for 49 years, since those on a PC, the Macs will help Sinclair instructed the Thursday Northwest Catholic’s founding in students in the higher level art Student Council Class Night Jazz Band (TNJB), Wind 1961. In addition, the many classes, such as A.P. Studio Art Ensemble, and Concert bands, all students also voiced complaints and those students in Music Officers the while directing the pep band. about the lockers inability to store Theory and A.P. Music Theory as The position as Band Director is

their large binders and books they listen to music and compose Class of 2011 not an easy switch from teaching Sebastian Skarba effectively. While the larger size of musical compositions with these President: Michael Laffin one night a week. Mr. Luddy is the lockers reduced the number programs. Technology was also Vice President: Lee Brown now the full-time band director, Mr. Luddy is excited to begin his of lockers throughout the whole update in the main office and Secretary: Dionne May conducting TNJB, Concert Band, new career as band teacher at school, there is enough for the teachers’ workroom where new Treasurer: Hillary Baran Wind Ensemble, and the Pep NWC. student body in the school today high speed copiers were installed. Band. Another teacher, Mr. getting used to us band geeks, but and for the student body in the In addition, Room 604 was Class of 2012 Andrew Selig ‘06, has been hired still picks hard music to challenge future. Therefore, the lockers we equipped with a SmartBoard and President: Thomas Murphy to conduct the Monday Night us while keeping band an have now are three inches larger new white boards, a SmartBoard Vice President: Cailyn McDonnell Jazz Band. extremely fun class.” than the old ones, giving the was installed in Room 606, and a Secretary: Caitrin Kiley Mr. Luddy has taken over the For those interested in catching students more room to portable SmartBoard was Treasurer: Allison Denton band department with an Mr. Luddy in action conducting a accommodate their large books, installed in Room 805. abundance of enthusiasm. Concert Band, TNJB or Wind binders, and other assorted Lastly, maintenance projects were Class of 2013 Students in the Wind Ensemble Ensemble performance, there are paraphernalia that accumulates completed throughout the President: Amanda Waltman and Concert Band classes, as well two concerts showcasing every within the lockers throughout the building. Major repairs were Vice President: Dan Lusardi as in Mr. Luddy’s two AP Music ensemble each year occurring on year. In picking the colors and the made on the heating systems that Secretary: Sadie Martinez Theory classes, have given December 14th and May 19th., as locker designs, Mrs. Williamson are more energy efficient (so Treasurer: Eamon Wizner glowing feedback about the new well as many special events and and the rest of the during the winter we won’t Director of Bands. Dan festivals open to the public. We Administration decided that the swelter in one room and the Class of 2014 Kowalzcyk ‘11 describes Mr. wish Mr. Luddy the best of luck school should look as ascetically freeze in the other) and the President: Owen Eagan Luddy as “a diligent teacher who in the upcoming year! pleasing as a 50 year old building Stousy and Johnson gym floors Vice President: Anna Costello can be. In addition, the were sanded and refurbished Secretary: Amy Cao Dramateurs Shine in Fall One Act administration is also planning while the bleachers were re- Treasurer: Aidan McDonnell By Elizabeth Allen directed, resulting in unique for renovations in the 300, 600, enforced in order to make them performances every year. Mrs. Northwest Catholic’s Dramateurs Avery who is the supervisor of HILL and ACTS Challenge Themselves And Have Fun shone on stage on October 1st and the Dramatuers program, By Cara Ledwidge stepped out into a gorgeous Housatonic River, and a six-mile 2nd, performing their Fall one-act highlights this by saying, expanse of green with beautiful hike along the Appalachian Trail. “A Pebble in Your Shoe”. Written “Northwest is very lucky to have Imagine waking up at ten o’clock mountain landscape all around The hike tested the HILL and directed by senior Kate the opportunity to showcase on a Monday morning in the them. Then they begin their students’ endurance and ability to Molloy, the comedy was about a student work in this way.” Kate summer and on top of that, you activites. They practiced spotting, encourage each other to reach the boy, Dante, (played by Dante Molloy enjoyed her experience as have to be packed and ready to did some warm-up bonding, got end. The finale was a swim in the Jeanfelix ‘11) who is trying to get a student playwright and director. leave for school to make the their things settled in their tents, lake after which Lakeville is some work done, enjoying the She says, “I wanted to write a 12:30pm bus. Most students’ but the highlight of the afternoon named. This is their reward for a one-act after my reactions would range from was the blind trust walk. taxing day of both physical and years of mildly annoyed to barely even During the walk, two members of mental exertion and is a chance to performing for the awake, but this was not true for the class are paired together. wash off after 3 days of no Dramateurs and the students in the HILL or Their mission: to travel through shower. being inspired by ACTS class. These students had the woods with one team member On the last day, the students Mrs. Avery. The been looking forward to this trip blindfolded, and the other leading participated in a quite challenging characters that I since they received their the “blind” teammate to safety. high-ropes activities course that created for the play acceptance letters into the class in This task is incredibly difficult tests them to their core. This is are either parts of January. their final challenge to Cara Seward me or suggestions Upon arriving at work together as one that my friends school, they joined unit to reach their goals. gave. It was a lot of the friends they have Though the ACTS trip is fun, but also a bit Shannon Crawford ‘11 and John Sullivan ‘11 are known all four years a little shorter, it challenging to enthralled by “Star Trek”. at Northwest as well manages to include many judge my friends at as the friends they of the same activities as peace of being by himself. He is auditions, keep them focused at will make over the the HILL trip. The result interrupted, however, by his practice, and criticize their course of the next at the end of both trips is friends who all annoy him in performances. However, they few days. The length the same: an incredible some unique way. For example, were a super cast and great to of the trip depends amount of trust, love, seniors Shannon Crawford and work with.” on which class the and mutual respect John Sullivan, played the roles of The biggest challenge for the student is in. The between members of the two nerds who are obsessed with Dramateurs was being funny ACTS class goes for class because of the “Star Trek”. T.J. Lowe ’13 tries to without portraying to the three days in late Allie Lamari hardships they faced. convince his friends that he is audience that they knew they June and the HILL HILL Class members pose with teacher Mr. Tressler on Senior Claire Looney Edward Cullen. Kate Schuppe were funny. However, in the end, class goes on a four their summer OARS camping trip. reminisces about the trip ‘11 played a girl who is an their hard work was worth it, day trip in August. saying, “I really enjoyed extreme neat freak and becomes and the cast members were able to The students head off with high and requires much patience from the trip. Even though it was hard frustrated every time the smallest perform an entertaining comical hopes on the bus to Lakeville, both teammates. The teammates being in such a primitive state thing is out of place. Dante act. All of them were excited after Connecticut. The trip is start out slow, but as they learn with an outhouse and no running becomes locked in the room with putting on a successful show, but “designed to bring students each other’s weaknesses, they are water, we didn’t really notice them and his other bothersome director Kate Molloy was together as a group (or Christian able to communicate with each because we were so busy friends when Darci (played by especially happy with its outcome. community), develop a sense of other and get to the top in one bonding.” Darci Hughes ‘11) breaks off the “When acting, the cast members trust and responsibility in and piece, each extremely proud of The members of the HILL class doorknob to the room they are interpreted their roles and the for each other, nurture themselves and their teammate. At are looking forward to the trip to located in. The kids in this locked plot in their own way and made it cooperation in working together the end of those terrifying Europe they are planning for room represent a typical genuine. So, the final performance to solve problems, overcome moments, they feel that the people April break, and the ACTS class friendship, where each friend is different than what I had fears, develop leadership, and around them, especially their has already been fully immersed might have a certain trait that imagined when writing it, but challenge each person to move teammates, have their back over in their service for the community. irritates the other, but the value definitely in a good way.” outside their comfort zone,” the next few days. Both classes look forward to of the friendship outweighs any The Northwest Catholic according to the overseer of the On the third day, as a member of spending the rest of the year annoyance. Dramateurs look forward to HILL class and trip, Mr. Tressler. the HILL class, there was a two- together after a summer filled An exciting feature of the Fall preparing for their next show, An hour and a half later, they hour canoe trip down the with friendship and trust. one-act is that it is student Neil Simon’s “Rumors”. November 2010 Northwest Catholic Page 5 FEATURES Four Successful Department Stores Become New York City Landmarks Bloomingdale’s Rises from Bazaar to Booming Business Saks Brings High-end Style to NYC By Kate Schuppe further, Bloomingdale’s hosted shoppers carrying “Big Brown By Kate Schuppe which was featured at the Paris events including galas, fashion Bags” around Times Square. Exposition in 1925. This redecora- Bloomingdale’s didn’t begin with shows, and award ceremonies. By In the 1970s, Bloomingdale’s Though the fashion world is tion made Saks look even more skinny jeans, sports coats, or the 1960s, Bloomingdale’s came found new designers to make constantly changing, with upscale, beckoning the wealthiest formal dresses. It started as a out with its first shopping bag, famous name brands even more openings of new stores like of clientele. The store attracted small Lower East Side store that designed by artist Joseph successful. Some of these names Abercrombie and Fitch, American more shoppers as a result. By the sold the time period’s hottest Kinigstein. The bag was risky and included Ralph Lauren, Dolce & Eagle, Kohl’s, and Forever 21, one 1960s, Saks had about 24 stores item- the hoop skirt. Joseph and daring, as it did not include the Gabanna, Norma Kamali, and name has remained across the Lyman Bloomingdale, the John Galliano. Calvin Klein, the go-to store for United founders of the legendary DKNY, and Yves St. Laurent the newest, most States, and department store, began their all opened their first in-store stylish fashions: 20 more success with their Ladies’ Notions boutiques at Bloomingdale’s, Saks 5th Avenue. opened by Shop in New York City. On April and became billion dollar For those who are 1989. Saks 17th, 1872, they opened the East businesses as a result. more acquainted also sent Side Bazaar, the first real Bloomingdale’s was able to with the more out its first department store. At the end of pick new talent before anyone reasonably priced catalog,

the day, the store had sold $3.68 kevinmweeks.com else, making them the Wal-Mart and Folio, in the worth of clothes. In the 1800s, dominant department store Target, Saks 5th 1970s. Saks most retail stores only sold one Bloomingdale’s in New York City shows of the time. The store’s Avenue is an opened on kind of clothing. The off its annual Christmas light show popularity began to sky- upscale clothing rioni.com Rodeo Bloomingdale brothers sold a display. rocket. On May 5th, 1976, store, located Drive in variety of fashionable garments Queen Elizabeth II visited between 5th Avenue and 49th and California in 1993. In 2007, the from Europe. This technique was store’s name. However, the bag’s Bloomingdale’s for the first time, 50th Streets in New York City. It department store received its own extremely successful, and in 1886 popularity took off and soon the bringing Bloomingdale’s began in 1924 when Horace Saks zip code, 10022-SHOE when the the store moved uptown and entire city could recognize the international acclaim. and Bernard Gimbel opened their U.S. Postal Service was selling soon took up an entire city block. famous Bloomingdale’s bag. The Bloomingdale’s launched its first first store in its current location. customized zip codes to busi- Lyman Bloomingdale saw even bag was considered the first store outside of New York City in These men wanted to sell high-end nesses. It was the first time one more potential in the store’s designer shopping bag and many 1949, and has spread throughout clothing to Manhattan’s wealthiest floor in a building got its own zip beginning success, and in order to of them are now collector’s items. the country ever since. shoppers. Adam Gimbel, the code. Horace Saks and Bernard further increase his sales, he Later, Bloomingdale’s produced Bloomingdale’s has become an cousin of Bernard Gimbel, who Gimbel certainly achieved their began posting the slogan “All its signature brown bag. The bags important part of American took over the store after Bernard dream, as their high-end store Cars Transfer to Bloomingdale’s” soon became a common sight popular culture and will continue died, decided to decorate the entire serves exuberant shoppers all over all over the city. To advertise even around New York City, with its success for years to come. store in the Art Moderne Style, the country. Enjoying Success, Macy’s Has Been a Favorite for Years FAO Schwarz Is a Child’s Favorite By Kate Schuppe end of that year, sales came to a Parade). The parade featured By Kate Schuppe Schwarz, of Westphalia, Germany, total of $90,000. The sudden many floats, bands, and animals opened the first store in Baltimore, When you think of New York, success was a relief to R.H. Macy, for an audience of 10,000. Now, Have you ever had that dream Maryland, and later opened what do you think of? Pretzels, who spent many years trying out also broadcasted on television, when you were little, that you were additional stores in Philadelphia, taxis, and Macy’s. Macy’s many failed business ideas. As the parade also features popular trapped in a toy store, and you Boston, and New York. Soon, Department Store has become a singers, actors, and had your choice of millions of New York City became the landmark of New York City, a performances by the casts of different toys? Well, a trip to FAO dominant FAO Schwarz store, must on the list of stops for hard several Broadway shows. attracting customers from all core shoppers. Though Macy’s The movie Miracle on 34th over the city, and later, all over has chain stores all throughout Street, begins with the Macy’s the country. The flagship store the country, the flagship store on Thanksgiving Day Parade and opened in 1986 at its current 39th and Broadway in New York centers around the parade’s location on 58th Street and 5th City attracts the most customers. Santa Claus, who turns out to Avenue. Its design beckons It is a massive store, which covers actually be the real Santa. The people of all ages to wander an entire block, has one million movie was filmed in 1947 and back into their childhood and www.pursuitist.com

square feet of selling space, en.academic.ru featured Natalie Wood and enjoy the sight of wall-to-wall earning it the title “The World’s Edmund Gwenn in the toys. The store and its massive Macy’s in New York City is the world’s Largest Store”. starring roles. This brought piano made its big break in the largest store. The enormous FAO Schwarz teddy The company, now under Macy’s even more national bear is recognizable to children movie Big, starring Tom Federated Department Stores, Macy’s success grew, it began recognition and the store became across the country. Hanks. along with Bloomingdale’s, was buying out other businesses, such a familiar landmark of New York FAO Schwarz is the oldest toy founded by Rowland Hussey as LaSalle & Knock, Davison- City. Schwarz in New York City might store in the United States. In 2009, Macy. His idea for the store’s Paxton, and Bamberger’s. Macy’s has come a long way from feel exactly like that dream. The is was acquired by Toys “R” Us. symbol, a red star, came from his In 1924, the immigrant employees its first inital opening in 1877, but massive toy store, internationally Since then, both of these compa- experience as a sailor. The first working at Macy’s started the throughout the years it will known for its wide selection of nies have brought joy to children day the store opened, sales came first Macy’s Thanksgiving Day remain a classic part of New York toys, began over 145 years ago. Its (and adults) of all ages on their to a total of $11.06, and by the Parade (then called the Christmas City. founder, Frederick August Otto trip to New York City. 2010 Little League World Series Brings Excitement to Baseball Fans Throughout the World By Stephanie Koldras Asia-Pacific, Canada, Caribbean, teams in the groups were the West representing Connecticut. anticipation, the winner would Europe, Japan, Latin America, and Northwest regions and Japan However, they came up short finally be determined. After a long This past summer, from August Middle East and Africa, and and Asia Pacific who had more when they lost to the Southwest hard fought game, Japan came 20th to August 29th, thousands Mexico. The opening ceremonies than three wins. Other teams that with a score of 14-1 and to out with the win against Hawaii of baseball fans watched the took place on August 20th at Northwest with a score of 9-5. with a score of 4-1. Although anticipated Little League World Volunteer Stadium. Following the These series of games led up to many of us were rooting for one Series that took place in South opening day, the teams from the the top two teams of the of our own, Hawaii, to come out Williamsport, Pennsylvania. The United States played against each international group and the with the win, Japan deserves a lot Little League World Series was other and the international teams United States group. On August of credit for being the first first started in August of 1947 in competed against each other. 28th, Japan was able to pull out International team to win the Williamsport, Pennsylvania. Since Attendance was extremely high, an exciting victory against Asia- Little League World Series since this date, the Little League World with a total of 261, 745 people Pacific with a score of 3-2. On the 2004, as well as being the first

Series has held up the tradition at attending all the different games. www.sportscasternews.com opposing end, the United States team to win the series for Japan the same location during August. Many different people from each Championship consisted of the since 2003. Even though Japan Baseball players between the ages region set out to watch the games were second ranked included the West playing against the was the champion team, some of of eleven and twelve could live. Among the higher regions for Southeast and Southwest regions, Southwest. However, this game the batting leaders included compete with teams from around attendance were Japan, as well as Mexico and Latin was not as thrilling, as the West Yomar Valentin from the the globe. A total of sixteen teams Northwest, Midwest, New America with two wins. region defeated the Southwest Caribbeans with .750 batting compete in the Little League England, and Latin America. Additional teams that competed with a score of 10-0. By August average, Beua Orlanda from World Series, with eight teams With all of the support from so but came up short with only one 29th, everyone was ready for the Southwest with three homeruns, from the United States and eight many people, the boys certainly or zero wins were the Great Championship game with Japan and Shao-Feir Huang from Asia- international teams. The U.S. had lots of pressure on them to Lakes, Mid-Atlantic, New playing against Hawaii from the Pacific with 12 RBIs. Overall, the teams came from different regions play well and do their best. Along England, Midwest, Caribbean, West region. The game was Little League World Series was including Great Lakes, Mid- with these games came an Europe, Canada, and Middle broadcast on ABC at 3:00PM, more than just a few summer Atlantic, Midwest, New England, emotional rollercoaster for these East and Africa. Although many and was located at Lamade baseball games. It was a week of Northwest, Southeast, boys as they dealt with both of us had hoped for New Stadium in front of 29,812 excitement that entertained the Southwest, and West. exciting wins and devastating England to come out on top, they enthusiastic fans. After many baseball world of both the International teams included losses. Among the higher ranked gave a tremendous effort to days of hard work and supporters and the players. Page 6 Northwest Catholic November 2010 FRESHMEN The Class of 2014 Reminds Us All of What it Was Like to Be Freshmen What is the best part about being a freshman? Starting over. - Chris Pappa Adjusting to the Northwest Deacon Sutherland. - Connor Catholic way of life. Not that it’s Dunn A new school, new friends, and It’s a whole new experience. - bad, just different. - David new opportunities. - Kevin LeBlanc Thaddeus Link Bergsma My freshman contact Alec Lorenzo made my weeks easier, no The teachers go easier on you. - What is the worst part about being Everyone is bigger than me. - Ben question. - Louis Lawson Amanda Poniatowski a freshman? Elmore The senior contacts and the Having people refer to Name someone who has made your teachers. The senior contacts you as freshmen/frosh. - first weeks at Northwest Catholic explain everything and the Kelsey Baker easier: teachers take it easy on you as you settle in. - David Bergsma Being the lowest grade. - Tori Grappone. - Molly Deneen Brianna Cowan Patrick Nista. - Patrick Midney The teachers. - Kristen Marti Having to carry the What is the funniest/most embar-

water everyday to field Alex McKenzie, Kate Molloy, and rassing thing that has happened to Kathleen Connelly Kathleen Connelly hockey. - Madison Saralynne Brown. - Katherine you at NWC? Mortillaro Garger What is the funniest/most embar- More freedom and you get your Jamming my friend’s locker. - rassing thing that you have own dance. - Brianna Cowan Getting to know your way Allie Lamari. - Zeke Angelini Kevin LeBlanc witnessed at NWC? around the school. - Maggie Rose Knowing that you aren’t the only My guidance counselor. - Ryan On the first day, I dropped all of My friend left to go look for his one going through it. - Patrick Trying to get through the hallways DeFranzo my books in the hallway. - Kristen book and got lost. - Louis Lawson Midney when you’re smaller than averyone Marti else. - Lauren Luongo Conor McDonnell. - Aidan A freshman kicking the football Having an excuse everywhere you McDonnell I walked into a senior classroom. - backwards at practice. - Zeke go. - John Arel Having to do more homework. - Ryan Poole Angelini Annie Berning Mrs. Donnelly. - Emily Kuczma You make a lot of new friends I walked into the wrong class after As a joke someone asked my that you’ll be with for a long time. The complicated schedule. - My senior contact, Hillary. - a fire drill. - Grace Deneen English teacher how to spell - Tim Kuhlberg Thaddeus Link Maggie Rose “English.” - Emma Christolini I flipped over my desk trying to I get to experience different things. The upperclassmen saying “All the get my pencil case in Honors A senior walked into a freshman - Luisa Anquillare freshmen have it easy.” - Sean World History and fell on the math class by accident. - Anna Foster ground. - Gillian Colman Costello The freshmen dance! - Gabriella Beaulieu You’re the youngest in the school. My backpack strap got caught on A line drive punt that nailed the - Kelsey Kwasnik a door knob and I got stuck. - coach in the face at practice one We get to do a lot of fun activities. Katie Marti day. - Owen Eagan - Billy Schwartz Not knowing where to go. - Chris Mangine I flipped a desk over and fell with A girl went to the wrong class Finally being in high school. - it. - Marlon Bailey three days in a row. - Chris Pappa Kelsey Kwasnik Opening your locker. - Jun Woo Seo I almost walked into the boys’ One of the kids at soccer practice Meeting new people and getting to locker room. - Madison Mortillaro tried to kick the ball, missed it, try something new. - Melissa Always being thought of as the and then fell down. - Nicholas Nenninger lesser people on the football team. Spilling ketchup on my shirt. - Bragaia - John Arel Billy Schwartz Being on the freshman football Someone came in dressed down Kathleen Connelly team. - Jack Moran The hallway rush hour. - Amanda Getting an answer wrong when it wasn’t a dress down day. - Cooper continuously in class. - Melissa Andrew Meier Having free periods. - Peter Mr. Carlson because he is easy Nenninger Armetta Having to carry everything going and funny. - Blair Thompson Ms. Puskarz and Mr. Martorelli’s around at soccer. - Molly Deneen When my phone went off during performance at the pep rally. - Not as much homework. - Kenny a football meeting. - Chris Armetta Oheneba Nti Cox It takes a little while to get used to Mrs. O’Rourke. - Brienna Parenti the high school routine. - Blair Dancing like a fool at the I saw someone try to walk away We aren’t in middle school Thompson Rosa Park. - Hayoung Chang freshman dance. - Ryan Donohue from their locker when their skirt anymore and the food is good. - was stuck in it. - Blair Thompson Tim Dodds Sabrina Gomez. - Brianna Cowan Northwest Catholic High School Welcomes It’s Fiftieth Freshman Class By Allie Lamari school has stayed in great Catholic’s 50th freshman class. In a special event. Giulia Pascutto, a being used for 49 years. It is condition considering that it has regards to welcoming the fiftieth member of the Class of 2014, mind-boggling to think that the Northwest Catholic is quickly been inhabited by students for freshman class into the says, “I already feel like I am part lockers students were using last approaching a major milestone- almost fifty years now but, some Northwest community this year, of the family but, having all of the year held the books of students its 50th anniversary. There are parts of the school are out-of- Mrs. Williamson says, “Being a past students together for the in 1961. All students and alumni numerous ceremonies being date and need an upgrade. Most member of this class is very ceremonies next year will bring have great pride in being a part of planned to celebrate 50 successful of the celebrations will be going special and requires a certain the family even closer together.” the Northwest Catholic family years but, it all begins with on next school year but planning amount of responsibility to be The 50th anniversary is much which is why the school has welcoming the 50th freshman class is already well under way. this special class. It is their job to more than just cake-eating, grown to be so successful. at Northwest this year. The Class September 24th, 2011 marks an contribute to the traditions of ribbon-cutting, and lots of However, the Class of 2014 must of 2014 is the fiftieth freshman important date for Northwest Northwest Catholic.” Many of balloons. It is a time to honor take additional pride in being the class to walk through the doors Catholic because an anniversary the traditions we have in the fifty years of great education that 50th freshman class. “It is exciting of Northwest Catholic since the Mass will be held at Northwest school in 2010 are the same as has shaped well-rounded to know that our class will be opening ribbons were cut in 1961. and said by Archbishop Mansell. they were back in 1961. Tradition students who have contributed to remembered as the 50th freshman Celebrations for the honorable This will be a very special day is an important, unique society in various ways. It is class throughout Northwest event will remain “low-key” this because exactly fifty years prior, characteristic of Northwest because of the students and history,” says Zeke Angelini ’14. year since the true 50th year is not on September 24th, 1961, Catholic that must be carried on faculty that Northwest has The freshman class will play a until the start of the 2011 school Northwest Catholic celebrated its for another fifty years. “I am maintained such a high special role in the celebrations year. One thing students will see dedication Mass. This will be a excited to participate in the reputation for the past fifty years. and it is something they should this year that is a change in honor beautiful ceremony that the ceremonies held at Northwest In many ways Northwest is the all take great pride in. “I am a of the anniversary is, starting in Northwest Catholic family will over the next year,” says Zeke same as it was in 1961 but proud member of the Northwest January 2011, a special 50th get to participate in. All of the Angelini, a member of Northwest obviously there have been many Catholic Class of 2014,” added anniversary logo will be used for past and present students of Catholic’s Class of 2014. Victoria changes. Administration made a Zeke Angelini. Next year, 2011, the school. Also, Mrs. Northwest Catholic will have a Gelixner, also a freshman, stated, significant change to Northwest will be an incredibly special and Williamson, Principal and Chief chance to be united and share “I am excited to meet some of the this year by changing the mission exciting year for Northwest Administrator of Northwest stories of their Northwest past Northwest Catholic statement after the old one was Catholic. Mrs. Williamson is Catholic, stated, “We are in the Catholic experience. One of the students. To meet someone from used for 20 years. It was quoted saying, “We are very ‘quiet-phase’ of the capital effort most important groups of the first freshman class would be necessary to update the statement excited about the fact that we have to raise money to make several students who will participate in really awesome.” It will be exciting to make it fit better with modern achieved this milestone.” improvements to the school in the celebrations is the Class of to have the whole Northwest society. Also, the lockers received Northwest Catholic: Keeping it honor of the anniversary.” The 2014 which is Northwest Catholic family together for such a much needed upgrade after classy for 50 years! November 2010 Northwest Catholic Page 7 FRESHMAN Page 8 Northwest Catholic November 2010 FEATURES Inside Out: Katie Vignati, Brendan McCormick, Amanda Tronchin, and Mr. Shugrue What would people be surprised to AT: Donate $1 million to Con- learn about you? KV: Mi casa es su casa. necticut Children’s Medical Center. James Shugrue: I love dogs. BM: “Don’t be intimidated!” What annoys you the most? Katie Vignati: I am able to quote AT: It’s not how long you live, but any movie and apply it in every- what you did when you lived. JS: “Whining.” day conversation. What three things could you not live KV: The sound of someone eating Brendan McCormick: For a job, without? a banana. I’d like to investigate and arrest white collar criminals. JS: My wife, my dog, and the BM: Peanut butter in the fluff jar. Detroit Tigers. Amanda Tronchin: I hate choco- AT: People who smack when they late! KV: To-Do lists, gas station coffee, eat. and waffle tees. If you could be anyone else at What would be your personal theme Northwest for a day, who would it BM: My pre-homework nap, the song? be and why? cross country/track team, and the NWC School Newspaper. JS: “Take Me Out to the Ball JS: Slobodan. I love to fix things. Game.” AT: Jewelry, my computer, and my Sebastian Skarba BM: Mrs. Harrison, she controls cell phone. KV: “Where Are You Christmas?” Mr. Shugrue the PA system. Who or what always makes you BM: “Fields of Athenry” as AT: Mrs. Adamo because she is laugh? performed by the Drop Kick KV: Cheesecake or fajita AT: My parents because they have always helping others. Murphys. quesadillas. been in my life from the beginning JS: Funniest Home Videos. and they have provided for me. AT: “Pop the Glock” by BM: Mrs. Boyle’s brownies. Uffie. If you could live anywhere in the AT: Chips and salsa. world, where would you live? What would your first action as the President of If you could hear what someone was JS: Right where I am. the United States be? thinking for a day, who would you choose and why? KV: Mt. Crumpit. JS: Make U.S. citizens top priority. JS: No one - other’s thoughts are BM: Kerry, Ireland. not my concern. KV: Taxes? Who’s that? AT: Switzerland. BM: Dan Erickson. I’d like to BM: Tape a Shawn hear the thought process behind If you could manage any profes- Johnson “Got Milk” the things that he says. sional sports team, what team would poster to the oval office you choose? Alex McKenzie wall. What is your greatest ambition in Amanda Tronchin life? JS: Detroit Tigers. AT: Give everyone the If you were stranded on a desert day off! JS: Be able to remember all my KV: BRUINS! island, who would you want to be BM: Ron Burgundy. His ridicu- students’ names. stranded with and why? lous expressions could make a What movie could you watch over BM: Hall High School wolverine purr. and over again, and why? Quidditch Team. JS: My wife because she thinks I’m “cool.” AT: Jordan Greenberg, she is JS: Die Hard, Bruce Willis never AT: L.A. Lakers. hilarious. gives up. KV: Willy Wonka so that he could What would be the title tell me the secret recipe of the What would be the first thing you KV: Silence of the Lambs because of your autobiography? everlasting gobstopper. would do if you won 10 million I am Clarice Starling. dollars? JS: “I Did it My Way.” BM: Caroline Wozniacki, the BM: Mr. Reese’s parent behavior Polish tennis great, so I could JS: Make sure hard working video starring Mike Golic. Its an KV: “How to: Be Lady learn her intense backhand people who “try” get the help they instant classic! Gaga” techniques. need. AT: Next Friday because it’s BM: “There and Back What words of wisdom do you live KV: Buy a 60 foot fishing boat funny! Again: A Runner’s by? and go catch some blue fin. Tale.” If the whole world was listening, JS: Stand up for what you think BM: Buy a real track for NWC. what would you say? AT: “An Interesting is right. Journey into the Life

JS: Math makes the world go Alex McKenzie of Amanda Tronchin.” round. Katie Vignati What magazine do you KV: I can’t be tamed. look forward to getting in the mail? BM: Bears. Beets. Battlestar KV: To patent my invention, Gallactica. “Chafe Safe.” No one steal my JS: Sporting News. idea! AT: END ALL FORMS OF KV: Noble Collection. HATRED. BM: To affect people’s lives for the better (and win the World Cup). BM: Many ... I sold over $1500 If you could ask God one question, worth of magazines to myself in what would it be? AT: To become a successful an attempt to win the magazine orthodontist. drive. JS: Why can’t all people be treated equally? Who is your hero and why? AT: Seventeen.

BM: Does the spinning top fall at JS: Leonhard Euler because he What random fact are you most the end of “Inception”? was blind and still a math scholar. proud to know?

If you could have only one food for KV: Mary Catherine Gallagher KV: The epidermis is the largest the rest of your life (assuming that because she makes a school and heaviest organ in the human this strange situation would not uniform look fantastic. body. affect your health), which food would you choose? BM: Definitely Odysseus. He’s like AT: In Idaho it’s illegal for a man the patron saint of getting to give his sweetheart a box of JS: Cheese. sidetracked. candy weighing less than fifty Kathleen Connelly pounds. Brendan McCormick November 2010 Northwest Catholic Page 9 NEWS Point-Counterpoint: Should a Mosque Be Built at Ground Zero? Pt: It Would Be a Symbol of Religious Freedom Cntrpnt: It Would Be Offensive By Dillon Bowen Park51 has anything to do with the controversy equality By Sarah Visintainer near Ground Zero and their terrorist activities. Accusations creates. If Americans failed to leader, Imam Feisal Abdul Rauf, The Muslims, building Park51, were made that Imam Feisal, one assert their rights in the face of The plans to build a mosque were to take into consideration commonly referred to as the of the main proponents of controversy, African Americans blocks away from the site of the the strong emotions that many Ground Zero Mosque, must be Park51, has terrorist ties due to would be forced to ride in the terrorist attack on the World Americans feel about Ground supported as an exercise of their his contributions to the Holy back of buses today.Accepting Trade Center have sparked an Zero, and moved the location of right of religious freedom. Land Foundation, which was people who are different is an emotional debate throughout the the mosque to a different area, it Freedom of religion is a natural linked to Hamas. Imam Feisal’s idea on which America was built. country. Putting up a mosque would show all Americans the the right and an American right. donations to HLF were made The prejudice Americans have near Ground Zero is insensitive compassion and understanding Many would argue that the before the US government knew to the people that lost loved that they deserve. Rauf has terrorist attacks on September of its ties to Hamas, and Feisal ones in that fatal assault nine founded groups whose main 11th, 2001 voided this right for himself has refuted Hamas. Feisal years ago. Many Americans focus is to build bridges between Muslims wishing to construct a will ask the US government for wrongly believe that all American Muslims, United States prayer house near Ground Zero. approval for all sources of Muslims are to blame for the society, and the Muslim world. By Before passing any judgment on financial support. America was thousands of lives lost in the moving the location of the all Muslims, consider this: thirty- founded on the freedom of attack on September 11th 2010. mosque, the Americans that put two Muslim Americans were religion. This self-evident right is The Muslim religion is a all Muslims into the same killed on September 11th by the guaranteed by the First peaceful faith. Not all Muslims category as terrorists, would see terrorist attacks; and10,000 Amendment and grounded in the should be categorized together that many Muslims are striving Muslims risk their lives for our principle that all men are created with the few religious extremists for peace. Overall, there should freedom as they fight for the equal. An exalted American tenet Google Images that called themselves Muslims not be a mosque near Ground American Armed Forces. First, is that everyone should be and chose to participate in the Zero because it would be hurtful understand that Park51 is a place welcome to worship how, when, Muslim Mosque terrorist actions on America. to those who lost loved ones and of peace. Imam Hajidara, a and where he or she so chooses. The belief that there should not it would not be respectful to their prominent member of the Americans must believe that their against Muslims will not be be a mosque does not go against emotions. Ground Zero is Muslim community, affirmed that principles are strong enough to erased by moving the mosque to the idea of freedom of religion sometimes referred to as “sacred the purposes of the mosque are withstand even the deaths of maintain the status quo. The that is allowed through the first ground”. This means that it really promoting love of God and 3,000 fellow citizens.It is unfair to relationship between America and amendment in our country. Over belongs to those who suffered reconciliation between Americans discriminate against an entire the Muslim world will only be the past few decades several and died there. It is our and Muslims. The mosque, being group of people based on the repaired by accepting the Muslim offensive racial and ethnic words obligation as their fellow built near Ground Zero, will be a actions of a few, especially when faith and practice of it anywhere have essentially been eliminated Americans to protect the dignity symbol of welcome to people of these fringe few act contrary to and everywhere in the United from the American vocabulary. and solemnity of that honored all religions to worship freely in the group’s basic beliefs. Just as States.The hurt experienced on This is not due to a limitation of site. If a mosque were to be built, America. All Americans view the KKK raped, tortured, and 9/11 will remain forever in the free speech; rather, as a country, it may lead to greater September 11th as a tragedy. murdered African Americans to hearts and minds of every we realized that these words are disharmony. One of the best September 11th is considered a promote white supremacy, American. But now is the time to hurtful and we choose not to use things about living in America is tradegy even in the point of view Muslim terrorists attacked the look past the hatred, the fear, and them. This is similar to how the all of the freedom that we have. of Muslim Americans. Muslim twin towers to promote Islamic the sorrow surrounding the mosque controversy should be With this freedom comes great Americans are devoted to supremacy. All Caucasians towers and learn to accept people viewed. The supporters of the responsibility. We as Americans America and mourn the horror cannot be held accountable for for who they are. The question building of the mosque should have a moral responsibility to be that befell their nation when She the actions of the KKK, just as here is fundamental: Should every realize how hurtful and upsetting respectful of our fellow citizens’ was attacked on September 11th. all Muslims cannot be held human being be supported in it would be to those individuals emotional suffering. Just because Some say that Park51 and its accountable for September 11th. worshiping God wherever he or whose lives were affected on 9/11. we have the legal right to do founders have ties to terrorists. Throughout history, Americans she wants to? To that America If the community of Muslims something, doesn’t mean we There is no credible evidence that have supported equality, despite must say “yes.” that wish to build their mosque always should. BP Means “Big Problem” for the Oil Company and Life on the Gulf Coast Region By Teddie Mucha found dead due to the seamless transition from response issue is missing. It will be advised damages. BP and other parties are introduction of oil into their to recovery. The recovery council by science and stakeholder being tried in court for this On April 20th, 2010, eleven crew homes. BP operated oil skimmers shall include various committees. A damage assessment tragedy. They may be required to members were killed by an and other cleanup resources are representatives from federal and will determine the value of pay fines between $5 billion and explosion on the BP operated trying to remove the oil from the state government agencies as well $19 billion in civil penalties. This Deepwater Horizon oil rig. This water. The US is doing everything as from tribal organizations. It amount is based on whether or sparked the greatest it can to help; even some states will also coordinate restoration not the companies are found to environmental disaster in United are becoming involved without efforts when the oil spill response, be negligent in connection with States history. 1,470,000 gallons urging from the government. headed by National Incident the spill. It is unclear, however, as of oil was estimated to be Louisiana, for example, began Commander, Thad Allen, expires. to what percentage of the fine will discharged from the broken well building oil containmeent breams The Federal On-Scene be allotted by Congress to the per day. On July 15th, 2010, BP to halt the spread of oil. President Coordinator, Coast Guard recovery council. Many people

successfully stopped the discharge Obama has diligently worked on Administrator Paul Zukunft, Google Images believe that, because they cannot of oil from the well, but only after resolving the matter. He will issue would be handling the remaining see the effects in their own homes, spilling 190 million gallons of oil an executive order some time in spill response efforts. Policy and there is no problem. This is in the gulf in the short span of the near future creating an budget recommendations for hardly the case. The long-term three months. There are over 400 interim Gulf Coast Ecosystem recovery efforts would be Oil sticks to the fur of a sea effects of the now infamous BP different species of animals and Restoration Task Force which is developed by the task force and otter. oil spill may echo in the Gulf fish living in the gulf that were to be chaired by EPA they would also help to avoid Coast region for years to come largely affected by the spill. administrator and New Orleans overlaps and duplication of natural resources lost or harmed and may continue to impact the Within the spill area alone, 464 native, Lisa Jackson. The task efforts—something our current by the spill and projects shall be lives of all Americans well into the sea turtles and 60 dolphins were force will oversee a hopefully system of management on this identified that will mitigate these future. Goodbye Iraq, Hello Aghanistan: The Strategy Behind American Troops Being Redeployed By Sean Morris caused the death of Iraq to be the most unpopular parts of Iraq. So while the focus World War II in which the U.S. 4,287 US soldiers. and controversial war in of the military becomes the War occupied and helped rebuild West On August 19, 2010 One could argue American History. The troop in Afghanistan, the U.S. is Germany but this time the only the last set of U.S. then, that major withdrawal was a part of keeping a watchful eye over Iraq difference is that the remaining combat troops left combat operations President Obama’s promise to the to make sure that there is no U.S. troops are still in harms way. Iraq. With the last set did not really end in American people and he did resurgence of terrorist forces By pulling all combat troops out of combat troops out Iraq until around deliver by pulling out the combat from its remote regions. of Iraq, the cost of maintaining of Iraq President 2006. The War in troops 2 weeks ahead of schedule. However, with 50,000 troops still the situation in Iraq will fall Obama could officially Iraq has damaged However, there is a gray area in Iraq, some Americans may feel sharply, causing less strain on the mark the end of U.S. the U.S. economy, regarding the troop withdrawal that President Obama has lied to economy in the U.S. But, sadly, combat operations in costing the U.S. from Iraq. The President is able us and that he found a loophole the U.S. is not out of the woods Iraq. It is hard to more money than to define the term ‘combat in his promise in order to protect yet as most of those troops who believe that in 2003, Google Images the Vietnam War. troops’. So while a majority of U.S. assets in Iraq. But this is not have been pulled out of Iraq will the United States Many people blame the U.S. forces leave Iraq, nearly true. Combat in Iraq has fallen to be redeployed into Afghanistan. invaded Iraq and then An American soldier the Bush 50,000 U.S. soldiers remain. The an almost un-noticeable level and The War in Afghanistan is a later that year, stands beneath our Administration for main job of these troops is to by pulling out the combat troops, much tougher war than Iraq and President Bush made a country’s flag. wrongly invading help make sure that the Iraq President Obama has effectively the U.S. and its Allies have seen speech from the U.S.S. Iraq and looking security forces are trained ended the War in Iraq, something very little progress in any Abraham Lincoln in which he for the mythical weapons of the properly. These troops are still neither President Bush nor John advancement in Afghanistan. declared the end of major combat mass destruction that they so putting themselves in harm’s way. McCain would have done any Hopefully, with this next surge of operations in Iraq. Since that firmly believed existed. As a Also, Special Forces units are still time soon. This could be troops into Afghanistan, the U.S. speech, the War in Iraq has result, many consider the War in doing operations in the remote compared to the aftermath of will be able gain an edge in these. Page 10 Northwest Catholic November 2010 SPORTS Cross Country Looking Towards Tournament Boys’ Soccer Fights For Wins By Meg Peterson overall and Katherine and tie dying are all ways the By Haleigh Beckerman encouraging and motivational Schwartz came in 14th in the captains plan for the whole words to keep each other going. With the Northwest Catholic girls 5k run. When asked what team to come together. The After a scoreless tie against Despite being a young team, girls’ cross country team keeps the team motivated on girls and boys’ cross country Windsor and a hard 4-0 loss to they certainly are a talented already off to a solid start, the such long runs during practice, teams also plan events for both Hall, the Northwest Catholic one: many players in the rest of the season is looking Vignati said that encourage- teams including Saturday boys’ soccer team came out talented starting lineup are very promising. Over the morning breakfasts/runs along strong against New Britain on freshmen and sophomores who summer, the girls were given a with team dinners. Fun events September 21st. The game calendar of pre-season work- like these help the team meet ended in a 2-1 Northwest outs to help them get in shape other people as well as bond victory, with goals scored by for the season. Most days on together outside of school and junior Cory Christina and the calendar consisted of their normal practice/race starting freshman Tim Dodds. running several miles, making days. The girls’ cross country Christina scored on a penalty it up to six or seven miles a day team also has a little sister/big kick in the first half, and an by the end of the summer. The sister tradition in which an unselfish pass by aggressive team’s dedication off-season upperclassman would be sophomore Alejandro Tobon really helped as the season paired with an underclassman allowed Dodds to complete the started this Fall. With a fairly to get to know one another play. Tobon ‘13 adds a very small team of around fifteen better and to exchange psych unique aspect to the team, with girls running this season, senior boxes and locker posters with his mix of selflessness and captain Katie Vignati says that each other. Vignati said that creative passing. Captain Nick it’s a tight team this year with a her goal for the team as the rest Italia ’12 returned to the game Kathleen Connelly consistent top seven. At the of the season finished up was, after a hand injury kept him Kathleen Connelly Blue Dragon Invitational in “For no more injuries to out for the beginning of the Katherine Schwartz ‘12 runs Evan Fox ‘13 starts a play. Middletown, the girls’ cross happen. As well as for the season, and did his part by well. country team placed very well, team to improve, have fun, and helping to keep the team have made several important considering the small size of ment from other team members to have a good rest of the together. Goalkeeper, Evan contributions. Standout their team. Teams from all along with the knowledge of season.” As the three senior Fox, played remarkably well sophomores Brendan over the state competed against improving their times are what captains, Katie Vignati, Allie by allowing only one goal of Thompson and Brendan Butler Northwest such as East Hamp- keeps the teammates going. Lamari, and Kelly Yorio, try to the many shots taken by New strongly hold up the defense, ton, Coginchaug, Portland, Team spirit and enthusiasm are lead the team to victory, they Britain’s strong offense. The helping fellow sophomore Sheehan, and Wethersfield. a very important aspect to the look forward to the team’s whole team played great, goalkeeper Evan Fox, protect Northwest runner Haley girls’ cross country team. continued strong improvement staying tough in the face of 26 the goal. On offense, Tim Derlinga came in 12th place Psych boxes, locker posters, and success in the future. fouls by New Britain. The Dodds ’14 and Alejandro team is led this year by captain Tobon ’13 use their ball Cheerleaders Keep School Spirit Strong Nick Italia and his fellow handling skills and teamwork By Sadie Martinez spirit. They have several well- school, and the dancing and junior, captain Alex to bypass opposing defenders known cheers. The fans always stunting is fun.” As for Mortillaro. “We have a really and head for the goal. The The history of cheerleading go crazy when they cheer, expectations for the team, young team this year, and the team’s talent is not just young dates all the way back to the “Bang! Bang! Choo Choo Melissa says, “My expectations only way we will be successful though, a strong group of late 1880s. Now 2010, they are Train Come on Indians, Do for the team this year is to just is if we work together and play upperclassman keeps the team at every game and they are Your Thing!” Or during be our best and show the school as one,” says Mortillaro when running smoothly and never too quiet, on the halftime when they start how much we want to support asked for his thoughts on the successfully. This was shown in contrary, they are too loud for throwing each other in the air them. I believe our support team’s chances this year. the player’s efforts during a good reasons. The NWC and doing back flips. Football helps them out because they Italia, his fellow captain, challenging night game against Cheerleaders will always be is good entertainment, but know we’re there for agrees, “Our team is really Farmington on September 24th. there whether it’s basketball encouragement.” young and inexperienced, but Fresh off beating New Britain, or football. They cheer on Britney and we have the desire to win and the team was excited about their our teams whether we are Taylor have been get better, so I think our season prospects against their long- losing or winning. The on the team for will end up well.” They think time rivals. Though the game cheerleaders are always at four years. Britney that the team needs to learn to started off with two Farmington every game and can be says, “I have trust each other and cooperate goals, the boys didn’t give up. counted on to add to our gotten a lot from together if they want to be Halfway through the first half, school spirit and make the this experience. I successful against their tougher Nick Italia shot the ball from team’s adrenaline run high. have gained a ton opponents. In the CCC West, 30 yards out and it rocketed They work hard to be louder of patience and I the Indians have to play the over the goalie’s hands and into than the other teams’ have learned a lot best teams in the state the goal. Despite a hard loss, in cheerleaders and are always about team work.” including Simsbury, the end, the team played successful. Some people She hopes for the Farmington, Hall, and New strongly and with a lot of heart. Britain. The Northwest soccer Juniors Ryan Strid and Cory may not know but Mr. Mucha best for her team cheerleading is a very and that they team is seen as the underdog in Christina played strongly at intense sport. The girls The Northwest Catholic cheerleaders give the surpass last year’s every single game of their midfield and senior Michal practice until they know football players the support they need. team in their season. A Class S team, the Kucharz put in great effort at what they’re doing. They have cheerleading is fun to watch competition. Taylor says that Indians play each of their offense. The whole team fought to deal with everything that any too. The cheerleaders take she has gained several games against a Class LL hard and never gave up. This other sport deals with. much pride in the things they friendships from the experience. school. The other school teams game revealed that the team Athleticism, skill, passion, do, because it takes an extreme They all agree that their are bigger, stronger, and faster, was able to work together and sweat, frustration, pain, amount of skill to do what they cheering helps the football team but the boy’s soccer program stay tough against difficult competition, motivation, bus do. As for the fall cheerleading primarily because they are puts together a great opponents. This is an rides, defeat, success, and squad, they cheer for the friends with most of the players. combination of skill and hard important aspect to a team, as everything else that is under the football team. At the night Their presence is obviously not work. They hope that these positivity and encouragement definition of the word sport. It’s games and the Saturday only on the field. Even when attributes will help them win from other players motivate the easy to have spirit fingers but morning games this year they they are losing, they still over these Goliath like players to work harder. Junior can you do that and also are being led by their three encourage the team. They have opponents. So far, the team has leaders Nick Italia and Alex perform a pull off, basket-toss, senior captains, Melissa raised money for babies, in a been doing very well in that Mortillaro have analyzed their liberty, extended 3 level Soutar, Britney Grant, and fundraiser called “March of aspect- making great passes schedule, not putting too much pyramid, back hand spring, or Taylor Combs. All have had Dimes” and have done and being unselfish for the pressure on the team, but even a toe touch? For our several years of experience on fundraisers so they could all go good of the team. Against clarifying what they must do to cheerleaders that’s what they the team. They all hope that to camp. They perform at Windsor, the defense put up a win. The team agreed, saying work hard on at every practice. they can spice up their regular almost all of the pep rallies and united front to prevent anyone that they thought their team On top of all the moves, they routines in hopes that the fans awaken all of the students from from scoring. They succeeded- chemistry had improved. The have to be full of pep, spirit, will participate more. Melissa their slumber when they cheer. goalie Evan Fox had a shutout! Indians hope to play hard, and cheer hard from the has been on the squad for two All of the cheerleaders are In addition, against longtime challenge opponents, and add a sidelines. The cheerleaders years. She says, “I like it looking forward to cheering on Northwest Catholic rival, few more “W’s” to their record definitely add to our school because you get to support your their fellow students. Hall, the team offered and compete in the CCC. November 2010 Northwest Catholic Page 11 SPORTS Boys’ Cross Country Starts Season Strong Girls Looking For Repeat By Gabrielle Giangreco been coaching at NWC for very important factor. The boys By Nicholas Italia from the back with clean sheets twenty-six years, with Dr. are encouraged to eat across the board. She pumps up The Boys’ Cross Country team Luddy (assistant coach) who carbohydrates especially pasta. The Northwest Catholic Girls’ the team with great saves and launched into the fall season has been coaching for about Before meets they will do hill soccer team was undefeated 5 an aggresiveness that is impos- fifteen years. Mr. Fletcher ran training, work on form, and do games into the season, not a sible to teach. Senior Regan cross-country in college and anaerobics. Senior captain surprise. The girls were off to a Bosnyak keeps the team united when he came to NWC, the Brendan McCormick says to terrific start as was expected in the middle of the field. She position for cross country coach prepare for a race he eats power from the state champions. With plays great dynamic soccer, was available. The first year he bars and sport drinks. Brendan senior leaders Julia Mansolillo, switching the ball when needed coached, his team won the state started out on the team Lizzie Olszewski, Regan and always keeping possession. championship. When you think freshman year and wanted to Bosnyak, and junior leaders It seems like she is everywhere of a cross-country practice you become a captain because when Morgan Mencio and Becka on the field. The Indians are probably think of the team he was younger the captains Sierejko, the team can’t be fantastic at holding the ball. running miles upon miles. But showed him how to be a leader stopped. Morgan and Regan Against Farmington, Jess as coach, Mr. Fletcher tries to and he wanted to pass it down. make the workouts more fun His favorite parts about being and interesting. The workouts on the team are the team are supposed to help the boys bonding activities, the team become stronger both mentally parties, and, of course running.

Mrs. Schwartz and physically. Most of the He feels the team’s strongest time workouts are specified to point is their motivation. As far Ryan Geelan ‘11 finishes strong. help one aspect of running, as goals for himself and the with a bang. The boys whether that be: having team, he strives to win competed in an invitational stronger kicks, starting out conferences and states. Junior meet, the Blue Dragon. With better, passing a person, or Brian Poirier and Sophomore their success and pride, they finishing strong. Mr. Fletcher Joe Doyle also share this goal. brought home a second place says the twenty-six boys are a All three of these athletes have trophy. Many people don’t “dedicated and sincere” group. been a part of the team know what cross-country is all One athlete who stands out throughout their high school about. The boys run all around strongly is freshman Luke years. Brian loves absolutely

West Hartford and travel an Foran who won the JV race at everything about running and Kathleen Connelly average of eight to twelve miles the Blue Dragon Invitational Joe feels it is a good stress per practice. Other than and set a new course record. relief. The biggest race they’ve Becka Sierejko ‘12 punts the ball up field running distance, they do Many people wonder, how do competed in are the Wickham interval workouts and oregons. you prepare yourself to run a Invitationals. Brian and Joe summed up the Indians playing Fontaine powered up the field Mr. Fletcher (head coach) has cross-country meet? Food is a hope to lead the team. this year by saying, “After and played several combina- becoming state champions last tions to put one through the year we knew we would have a goalie’s legs and into the goal, Field Hockey Team Stays Motivated big target on our backs, but so then Lizzie Olszewski drilled far we have stuck it out and one off the bottom of the By EmmaKate Mortillaro defense.” The team is led by young team was challenged done everything we can to be crossbar that fell into the goal. senior tri-captains Hillary throughout the season as they where we are right now. It also With a 2-0 lead, the girls held Everyone at Northwest knows Baran, Kathleen O’Hara, and faced perennial field hockey helps that we have great team possession for what seemed like about the football, soccer, Molly Berning, and fellow powers Glastonbury, Simsbury, chemistry, and we work well 90% of the time. It was an volleyball, cross country, and seniors Dana Crory and Emily and Farmington as well as together.” The girls had an absolute clinic to watch. The cheerleading teams, but few Janusko. The seniors are cross-town rivals Conard and absolutely great game against girls played the ball well all know about the field hockey supported by a strong junior Hall. Communication is the Hall early in the season. They over the field. With quick and team. Practices and games are class, including Kathleen key to this year’s team. lost to the school down the street sure-footed wingers, Emmakate at St. Thomas Seminary so few McCormack, Caitlin Spalluto, Kathleen O’Hara feels last year, but this year there Mortillaro ‘12 and Emily fans get a chance to go to the Cara Watts, and Cathleen communication is good with would be no defeat. The score Kearney ‘13, the Indians also games and see how exciting Collins. In addition to the the team. “I think a strength is was 2-2 going into overtime. do a great job of spreading the field hockey can be. Field upperclassmen, there are many that we all get along and are The Indians put away a beauti- field. Coach Todd Sadler hockey requires a great deal of new underclassmen who round very comfortable with each ful goal in the second half of emphasizes hard work and determination, other and are not afraid overtime to win by a score of 3- determination as much as skill perseverance, to talk and yell at each 2. This was a huge win for the and eloquence while playing. teamwork, and deft other to cover our undefeated Indians. By beating The girls have regular film stick handling skills. opponents. Plus we the best team in the conference, sessions before and after each These are a few always have fun.” Coach this was a motivation boost for game that help them understand qualities that describe Soucier adds, “We will the girls.. Although, Northwest teams they will play, and this year’s Northwest be so much better once knew that they should not get understand how to correct the Catholic field hockey the team learns to really too ahead of themselves by errors they make. The girls team. Their desire to communicate and work being too overconfident. The have been defeating their win will get them as together.” The team is Indians started off the season competition every game of the far as they can go setting its sights on with a win over Manchester 2-1. season. The goal scorers during this season. bettering last year’s Then, they went away to New playing up top always seem to The field hockey girls record. Molly Berning Britain to demolish the Golden find the back of the net. North- are also in an said, “I expect our team Hurricanes by a score of 7-0. west is favored to do well in the extremely competitive to be much better than They came into the next game state tournament again. But, in conference in the CCC last year. I am looking with the same intensity, beating the player’s opinions, doing well West. With teams like forward to a great highly ranked Farmington by a is pulling off another state Simsbury, EO Smith, overall season.” The score of 2-0 with great goals by championship victory. If the and Southington the team got off to a good Jess Fontaine ‘13 and Lizzie girls get to the final again, they

girls have a very tough Kathleen Connelly start shutting out Olszewski ‘11. Other goals were are likely to see Class M state schedule and the Windsor and putting in Caitlin Spalluto ‘12 challenges for the faceoff scored by Emmakate rival Suffield. Although, there competition is fierce. strong efforts against Mortillaro ‘12, Annie Higgins is much work to be done in the Senior tri-captain, Hillary off the team. Coach Soucier South Windsor, Southington, ‘13, and many others which CCC West for the girls before Baran says, “We look so much does not mind having a young and EO Smith. So while it may shows the depth of their team. they look towards the tourna- better than last year. We are team as she feels that “there are be a tough season for the squad, The Indians took their unde- ment. The girls continue to playing together better and we many advantages to having a it is not from a lack of feated record into Southington work hard, show spirit, and are working harder as a team.” younger team, the longer a determination, perseverance, or hoping to pull out another W. heart for the game of soccer, The team is coached by Bill group of girls works together, hard work. Each and every By the end of the 80 minutes, and in the back of every Mullady and Dianna Soucier. bonds, and learns each other’s game the girls get a little bit the girls were up by a score of 3- player’s mind is the state In looking at the team, Coach strengths and weaknesses, the better, faster, quicker and 1. They then went on to romp tournament and add another Soucier sees “very strong stronger the team will be by the stronger. The girls hope to Conard 1-0 in a cross town Class M state championship returning players who are time they have played together improve on their record from rivalry. Varsity goalie Becka ring for their collection. A win contributing to both offense and for three or four years.” This the previous years. Sierejko holds the team together is only the beginning. Page 12 Northwest Catholic November 2010 SPORTS Northwest Football Team Focuses on Goals Volleyball Sets Goals High By Traci Parker camaraderie,” says By Mara Case senior varsity player Audrey Coach. “It’s a young Carroll, “this is a tough goal Last year, the Northwest team, [but they have] The Northwest Catholic but I believe we can achieve it football team had an incredible improved greatly in the volleyball team started off with through hard work and season, winning all but a understanding of the early victories this season determination.” The team has couple of games. When a game and level of effort against Rockville High School, high hopes of achieving this person thinks of a football [in the pre-season].” This Hall High School, and Enfield goal with strong and talented team, they immediately think year, there are only seven High School. Leading the team underclassmen such as Sarah of their win-loss record. seniors on the team: are senior co-captains Abby Gillespie ’13, Grace Deneen However, after talking with Kevin Beakey, Matt Johnson and Brynn Stoecklin ’14, Rachel Poirier ’14, and some senior members of the Becker, Ryan Gilmour, who are focused on team Kathleen Connelly Northwest Catholic football Patrick Graham, Alec Senior Ryan Gilmour punts the ball down spirit and cohesiveness. team, it became clear what Lorenzo, Brian the field. “We really are football really means to them. McGoldrick, and Ryan promoting a close-knit It’s not all about winning and Veronesi. are looked at this way because team this season and is glory, but is about of their disciplined work ethic reflected in our new sportsmanship and and concentration level. motto ‘One team, One always striving to be This year they are trying Dream,’” said co- the best. something different with the captain Brynn Stoecklin. And of course, role of the captains. Instead of With varsity coach, practice makes a constant set of captains for Patrick Douglas perfect, so the team the whole season, game infusing new plays and Kathleen Connelly practices about six captains will be assigned every techniques into the daily The volleyball team huddles up in a circle days a week. The game. Game captains are afternoon practices, the for a quick pregame pep talk. players work hard chosen based on the amount of team hopes to gain and push themselves effort one shows during victories against tough Rose O’Brien ’14. Veteran everyday. Practice is practice. This allows everyone competitors such as players such as Katherine very important when to get a chance to step up and Southington and Glastonbury. Butler ’11, Mary Deneen ’12, it comes to the game, lead the team. The varsity players hope to and Katie Beaule ’12 have also Kathleen Connelly according to senior, The football players have a improve their record of last added to the team’s early Ryan Veronesi. And, Junior Tyler Calitri runs the ball up the field as strong sense of determination, successes with their although the players the crowd looks on. and it is rooted in their ideals well-developed skills practice diligently, and their team philosophy: and leadership abilities. school is their highest priority. With help from assistant “Fortitudine Vincimus,” which With such young The head coach, Coach Tyler, coaches, Coach Martorelli, is Latin for “Through players, Northwest’s constantly pushes academics Mike Lenz (both are Northwest endurance we conquer,” a quote volleyball program and reminds his players to Catholic alum), and Scott that represents the team’s anticipates a bright study during their free time. Rapport, Coach Tyler knows motivation, inspiration, and future. The team’s Getting homework done is the team will be able to push mindset. recent victory over something the team talks about themselves each and everyday. Obviously, one of the main Hall, was filmed and is daily because it is so important. He believes that motivation is a things the players are focusing set to air on television At Northwest Catholic, it is large part of achievement and on is not just winning, but towards the end of mandatory for all athletes to success. applying themselves to the October. The Kathleen Connelly keep up their grades. If an When the seniors were asked game fully. Sophomore Jacqui Denver gets ready to set Northwest community athlete fails to do so, they will about their role of leadership, Winning record or not, our the ball to her teammate. wishes the Lady not be able to participate as a their response was that there football team at Northwest Indians a successful member of the team. wasn’t one leader on the team, Catholic High School has season by setting impressive season and invites everyone to Coach Tyler also commented but instead, there are specific something that a lot of other goals for their team. “Our goal cheer for the team during the on the uniqueness of this group upperclassmen who act as role teams lack: focus, intensity, and this season is to win fifty home matches held in the of athletes. “[There is] great models for everyone else. They concentration. percent of our games,“ says Johnson gymnasium. Athlete of the Season: Molly Berning By Alex McKenzie What is your most memorable Has playing field hockey The best part about playing moment in your NWC field taught you any important field hockey is the Senior Molly Berning has hockey career? lessons that you can apply to opportunity to be a part of a been a member of the varsity The first round of the state the rest of your life? close team. Everyday, we field hockey team at tournament in 2008, when we Field hockey has taught me a come together to work Northwest Catholic since her played Granby, who went on to lot about never giving up, towards a common goal, freshman year. She has been a ultimately win the tournament. which I can apply to the rest of creating lasting relationships two-year captain and a great Although we did not win, we my life. The past few seasons in the process. role-model for younger shut them out the entire first have definitely been rebuilding members of the team. Molly is half and put up an incredible years, but I’ve learned to What is it like being a two a great leader and a player fight. After the game, Granby approach each practice and year captain? Is it different that all of the girls on the team parents complimented us on game in a positive way, being captain as a senior can look up to. how unexpectedly well we focusing on always putting in rather than a junior? How played. It was great to be 100% effort. We may not win a have your responsibilities as

When did you start playing recognized by such an excellent Kathleen Connelly lot, but our team gains captain changed over the two field hockey? team and made all of our experience everyday, which will years? I first started playing in sixth efforts that season completely Who has had the most positive ultimately pay off. Being a two year captain is grade, and joined my middle worth it. influence on your field hockey definitely an honor. I’ve been school team in seventh grade. career? How has field hockey had a able to lead the team through How has your athletic career at My teammates from my positive effect on your high two seasons and watched how If you could sum up your NWC influenced you as a middle school team have school career? the girls have grown both as NWC field hockey experience person? consistently had a positive Field hockey has had a positive individual players and as a in one word, what would it be My athletic career at NWC has influence on my field hockey effect on my high school career team. As a senior captain this and why? taught me many lessons about career. We’ve pushed each because it has taught me how to year, it’s different than last Influential because the past persistence, dedication and other since we first started work well with others through year because there are no four seasons have truly determination. I’ve learned playing, and whenever I am various challenges. It has also older members of the team to changed who I am as a person. that it’s not about how many with them now, they are still helped me become more look up to. My I’ve learned numerous wins you have, but how much very supportive and disciplined and has taught me responsibilities have changed invaluable lessons on the field heart and effort you put into motivating. Being around them how to manage my time well. because I’ve had to use hockey field that will stick each game. Nobody can ask and playing field hockey with everything that I learned as with me for the rest of my life. you to do anything more than them inspires me to be a better What is the best part about captain last season and apply give your very best all the time. player and leader. playing field hockey? it to this year so that I can lead the team effectively.