sign in sign up
<<
Home , 93rd Academy Awards, Julie and the Phantoms, Otherside of America

Vol. LXXXXVIII Jonathan Dayton High School May 2021

May 2021 Edition

EDITORIAL BOARD

Brielle & Nicole Ramundo Ms. Rooney-Kuhn Sarah Zarember Editors in Chief Advisor Opinions Editor

EDITORIAL BOARD OPINION

This year has definitely been challenging for the students at Jonathan Dayton. The new virtual setting has impacted everyone’s lives and schedules, and it can be hard to find the light in this dark situation. Not being able to have the normal high school experience for almost two school years is something that the students at Dayton

never imagined. However, despite the current circumstances, it is imperative that we remember to make the

best out of this situation, and to continue to look forward to the improvements the future is sure to hold. Just

because we are interacting with teachers and classmates through a computer screen does not mean new goals

cannot be achieved and memories cannot be made. If we look to the bright side of this situation and remain

calm, patient, and hopeful, we will be back through Dayton’s doors very soon.

CONTRIBUTORS

Anthony Bianchi Natalyah Cadiche Cassandra Cadillo

Diana Elguera Victoria Perez-Palacios

Adriana Rivera Sofia Sieminski

THANK YOU FOR ALL OF YOUR HARD WORK!

The Dawg Print News 4

GET VACCINATED, SPRINGFIELD! By: Diana Elguera, 2023 Author’s note: This article is a follow-up to the Fryhofer, MD have also reminded the public that all author’s previous article, “COVID-19 Vaccine Rollout in three vaccines (Pfizer, Moderna, and J&J) all “‘...far NJ: Smooth Cruise or Flat Tires?” from the February [exceed the] FDA’s 50% efficacy threshold.’” Severe 2021 issue of The Dawg Print. allergic reactions are accounted for as well. Each Normally, getting a jab to the arm every now vaccine manufacturer has an info sheet that describes and then is not considered a monumental moment in their vaccines’ specific ingredients, expressing that history. In the era of COVID-19, however, there are a users exercise precaution if a reaction-causing plethora of reasons to rejoice at the sight of millions ingredient is listed. The CDC also recommends that all of people lining up to get their Pfizer, Johnson and vaccine patients undergo a 15-minute waiting period Johnson, or Moderna shot. As stated previously, the in the case of a severe allergic reaction. The combined rapid creation of these vaccines offers us a smidge of research efforts and measures established from these hope of an immunized population - one that can build pharmaceutical companies demonstrate the care herd immunity and lessen COVID-19’s drastic troll on they took to produce safe vaccines for the country. our lives. That being said, it is understandable that One factor vaccine users are ecstatic about is people question whether the COVID-19 vaccines are the slow-but-steady transition to the pre-COVID legit. Having concerns over the vaccines is valid - no lifestyle. For high schoolers like us, that means one wants to be subjected to the unknown so hanging out with our friends, learning in a more suddenly. Rest assured, there are answers! effective environment than “Zoom school,” attending Addressing these concerns is an utmost priority to ceremonies and dances, hugging our elderly assure you, the reader, your family and friends, that relatives, and ensuring the safety of the people getting the COVID-19 vaccine is the right way to go. around us. We can extend that to healthcare facilities Foremost, are COVID-19 vaccines safe? This and small businesses, which have endured concern is not as one-dimensional as you may think; unprecedented levels of stress and uncertainty to not people of color have a history of being subjected to collapse. What will take us back to a more racist medical malpractice. As expressed by manageable level of life will be a decreased risk that sophomore Brielle Pierre Philippe, “... a lot of those any one of us can contract and transmit COVID-19. people [who worry about the vaccine] happen to be Fortunately, that seems to be the case; according to POC due to a history of medical racism and [a] general recent data from , the current distrust of medics.” Furthermore, sophomore Srikar trend for cases and deaths in Union County is Nagabhushan points out that people may be downward! Our most recent low is from May 16, distrustful of some of the largest corporate where only six new cases have been reported. pharmaceutical companies in the country in charge of Sophomore Sophie Abramovitz is “eager” to get the current vaccine manufacturing. Making up these vaccine, and cites her hopes for what vaccination can companies are some of the most experienced, well- do: “It will be nice to contribute to decreasing our versed medical professionals equipped with the COVID rates, and [will hopefully] help us return to know-how on proper vaccine creation. Proof of their normalcy as soon as possible.” Another piece of expertise comes from the extensive vaccine trials recent news that supports the notion of “normalcy” is each company had to test their vaccines through. the announcement that all of NJ will be returning to According to Science magazine, vaccine trial in-person instruction models for the 2021-22 school participants for Moderna and Pfizer included over year. The statement made by Governor Murphy a 7,000 individuals over 65, over 5,000 individuals couple of hours ago gave me a shock - of joy! with chronic health conditions, and over 11,000 Remember folks - if you are under 18, you can get people from communities of color. Having a diverse vaccinated with the Pfizer jab and help contribute to pool of participants helped Moderna and Pfizer our eventual, full reopening! confirm that their vaccines worked effectively Is it a headache to get the vaccine? Senior Ava regardless of groupings. American Medical Bertolotti recounts some of the experiences other Association members Mira Irons, MD and Sandra vaccine takers have shared with her: “My The Dawg Print News 5

[vaccination] was quick and easy, but I’ve effects do exist, but they are also nothing much to be heard others had so much trouble [with] scheduling afraid about! It was easy to detect what was just my and lines.” The answer is no way - in fact, today it is body’s immune response to the vaccine by reading easier than ever! The NJ Vaccine Registration System the Pfizer info sheet that I was given. My symptoms is still open for all NJ residents in their search for a were just mildly uncomfortable occurrences - my vaccination location. Albeit spots can go fast, many arm was quite sore for a couple of days, and I had a new locations and time slots are available every day. fever for an hour. Afterwards, I can still In Union County, the site ucnjvaccine.org helps wholeheartedly say getting the COVID-19 vaccine residents register for either the Moderna or Pfizer was one of the best choices of my life. As sophomore shot at one of three main locations. The most Ella Bertolotti puts it, “A [little] pinch or even some promising of public options available in NJ right now, side effects won’t be nearly as bad as COVID.” however, is the existence of six vaccination Aside from reassurances, the other possible “megasites.” Since April 29, the megasites have all thing that I can offer to you is some simple advice. offered walk-in appointments for NJ residents Starting with sophomore Connor Nguyen, he regardless of county residency. Still not enough? suggests, “To prepare, I’ve been told to get plenty of Behold - vaccinations are even available at the local sleep and drink plenty of water beforehand to stay CVS/Walgreens! In fact, Ava got her first dose of healthy.” His advice holds true both in the days Pfizer at a CVS store. Many hospitals are even offering leading up to and after each dose; a well-rested and the vaccine themselves, including Overlook Medical well-hydrated body can better handle the stresses Center in Summit, NJ. I will say that the organization and side effects related to the vaccine. As from me, I and procedures of some vaccine sites may be hectic would just say to “roll” with it (pun intended). and lengthy, but do not let that deter your spirit! No Gearing up to get my first Pfizer dose, it hit me that matter how long you wait, you will get your vaccine the existence of a vaccine seemed so unreal. I could either way with the help of the wonderful volunteers not even process that feeling until after the shot at the site. It is probably best to choose a day that because my body and mind moved like a system of does not conflict with your schedule, though. cogs - go to this station here, line up there, see that Now, this is a common fear associated with station for the jab, wait a bit more, leave. The process vaccines in general - does it hurt? Let me take you to was done. I think it was for the better that I did not when I got my vaccine - me, who is not the biggest fan think much at all - stresses would not have stopped of needles. I thank the nice lady from the military who anything because the machine was already in motion. chatted with me throughout the entire procedure. Instead, I trusted that my body knew what the right Volunteers are trained to distract patients from what choices were. Now, we are here - a little bit closer to is going on, making the injection feel like nothing a safer world for my family and I. All it took was the more than a slight pinch. I will be honest though - side choice to get the COVID-19 vaccine.

THE PROGRESSIVE AND CURRENT INITIATIVES OF THE MOVEMENT By: Natalyah Cadiche, 2022 Over the past month, the Black Lives Matter the street. Soon after the incident occurred, video Movement has made major progress in terms of footage of the murder filmed by the teenage Darnella pushing its agenda to end Racism and the senseless Frazier was released and quickly spread throughout slaughter of African Americans. One of the most social media. When reflecting upon the months that significant and historically unorthodox events to followed Floyd’s death, many will remember the occur recently was the decision of the Derek Chauvin various protests that were held by Black Lives Matter case. On May 25 of 2020, , a 46-year-old supporters. Almost 1 year later, the court has African American Man was killed by Officer Derek released the decision and Derek Chauvin has been Chauvin. The cause of death was related to the officer declared guilty of second-degree murder, third- and his partners pinning Floyd to the ground whilst degree murder, and second-degree manslaughter. Chauvin used his knew to crush Floyd’s neck against The results of the case have shown the true value of The Dawg Print News 6 social media and the Black Lives Matter community officer is noted to have stated “” in ensuring that the justice is served for the lives of shortly after killing the young Bryant. The moment in Black Americans that have been unjustly taken by which the officer made this comment was not filmed, police officers. however, relatives of Bryant made the claim in a In addition to the major victory of the Derek video at the crime scene following Bryant’s death. Chauvin case, the Black Lives Matter community has The claim challenges the long-debated claims begun to shed light on the details regarding of the Blue surrounding the murder of 16-year- Lives Matter Movement and added old Ma’Khia Bryant. The teenager to the Black Lives Matter was being attacked by a few other community’s incentive to repair girls living in her neighborhood and police relations with Black contacted the police in hopes of being Americans. The potential protected. When the officers arrived comment was noted to have been on the scene, Ma’Khia was holding a a blatant commentary on the knife to defend herself. Rather than “Black vs Police” mentality that assisting Ma’Khia as intended, the has developed in America and the responding officer immediately shot and killed the overarching societal change that needs to occur to person they were meant to protect. Many people ensure that incidents like Bryant’s do not persist into from Bryant’s community have joined together to the future. mourn the teens death. While Ma’Khia’s murder has The Black Lives Matter movement has taken joined the list of African American deaths at the significant steps towards ending Racism in America. hands of police, one of the most significant claims From the results of the Derek Chauvin case to the made by Ma’Khia’s family members in terms of evolving understanding of Black American Police American terminology and language is that the Relations. NEW COVID-19 GUIDELINES By: Nicole Ramundo, 2022 Recently, the Governor of New Jersey Phil Governor Murphy has announced, the CDC has also Murphy has announced new guidelines regarding released a new recommendation for those who are mask-wearing and social distancing as America, as a fully vaccinated all across the United States. This whole, nears what seems to be the end of the ongoing recommendation is that people who are fully Covid-19 pandemic. These rules and regulations state vaccinated can resume participating in events and that starting May 19th, general indoor social activities they did prior to the pandemic, without a gatherings may hold up to 50 people, indoor business mask or social distancing needed. Also, a negative gatherings may hold up to 250 people as long as Covid-19 test is not required before traveling out of social distancing can be maintained, any type of the United States, however, it is still necessary before outdoor event or gathering will hold no limit, indoor an international flight entering the United States. religious services and celebrations may be held at Self-quarantining is not needed, but a test 3-5 days 100% of a room’s capacity with no more than 250 after travel is recommended. Self-quarantine is also people, indoor performances will be open for no not required if contact is made with someone who more than 250 individuals, while still maintaining has the virus. This is a great step for America, because social distancing, and large sports arenas and venues it gives a sense of normalcy back after more than a will allow a crowd of 1,000 people with fixed seating. year of living in this pandemic. It also encourages These guidelines are being viewed as positive for those who are not vaccinated yet to schedule an New Jersey citizens, due to the fact that many vaccine appointment, in order to distribute more vaccines to doses are being distributed each day, with about 4.9 stop the spread and create a positive lifestyle again million people in New Jersey having received at least for everyone. one dose of the shot. Aside from the guidelines The Dawg Print News 7

IS IT NECESSARY FOR COLLEGES TO REQUIRE COVID-19 VACCINES? By: Sofia Sieminski, 2021 As colleges open their campuses back to all have seen a spike in cases in the first months of 2021. students, many have required COVID-19 vaccinations According to the CDC, an individual who is vaccinated for all who wish to attend class and live on campus. has a decreased chance of carrying and spreading the Nearly four-hundred colleges nationwide have virus to others. With promising results from the mandated vaccines for all students. In New Jersey, vaccine, increased vaccinations will allow for the fifteen universities across that state have mandated transition to complete in-person learning to be safe the vaccine upon returning to campus in September. and effective. Additionally, students living in a However, not all states have colleges mandating the populated college environment have increased vaccine, such as Arizona, Alabama, and West Virginia. exposure to the virus, and receiving the vaccine will Upon colleges re-opening in September 2020, COVID assist in keeping the cases low. With more cases spiked across campuses, and are continuing to vaccinations, there are promising results for the rise in some populated campuses. With over 240,000 continuation of in-person learning interaction in the infections from colleges, schools including UMass near future.

Colleges that require the COVID-19 Vaccine in New Jersey: Drew University, Fairleigh Dickinson University, Kean University, Montclair State University, Mount St. Mary’s University, New Jersey City University, New Jersey Institute of Technology, Princeton University, Ramapo College of New Jersey, Rider University, Rowan University, Rutgers University, Stevens Institute of Technology, Stockton University

OSCARS 2021 By: Nicole Ramundo, 2022 Another award show ceremony is in the awards, which was the most of the night. Minari star books, with the 93rd having taken Yuh-Jung Youn made Oscars history as the first ever place on April 25, 2021. At the event, many Korean winner, and became the first Korean celebrities shined on the socially distanced red performer to ever be nominated for an acting Oscar. carpet, followed by an exclusive was the first show that was broadcasted on woman to win a screenwriting Oscar many live streaming services as since 2008, and became well as on national television. At the oldest woman to win an Oscar this year’s famous event, there for her work in Ma Rainey’s Black were many history-making Bottom. The hair and makeup team winners. won the behind Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom Best Actor award due to his role in also won an Oscar for their work in The Father, becoming the oldest the film. Other winners consisted of actor to receive an Oscar, while Disney and Pixar’s for Best Chloè Zhao won the Best Director for her work in Animated Feature Film and Original Score, , . became the first woman of color which had the most nominations at ten, for Best and the second woman in history to have won this Production Design and Best Cinematography, and award. The first winner of this Oscar was Kathryn for Best Sound and Best Film Editing. Bigelow, who won for her work titled The Hurt To read more facts about the 2021 Oscars and to see Locker about a decade ago! Zhao’s movie had also a complete list of all of the winners, view this link: scored the Best Picture, while Frances McDormand https://www.ndtv.com/entertainment/93rd- won Best Actress for her role as Fern in the film. academy-awards-oscars-2021-list-of-winners- This means that Nomadland had won a total of three 2421808 The Dawg Print News 8

NEW BUSINESS IN THE SPOTLIGHT: HALO ROASTERS By: Adriana Rivera, 2023 You make your way through clusters of “There was a lot of lack of support and multicolored cafe tables scattered along the sidewalk resistance towards it, [which] caused me to do a lot until you come face-to-face with an eye-level, of second guessing in my dream and in myself,” says cardinal red decal titled #GetRoasted, that greets you Eckhardt. When she met her husband, however, “he as you reach the glass-door entrance to the newest was 100% on board with the idea, [so] it became a establishment in your home town of Springfield, New matter of location.” She adds, “We started to keep a Jersey: Halo Roasters. ‘dream board’ (like Pinterest before Pinterest was a Inside, you are immediately welcomed by the thing), of what we would do when we opened up a glorious and comforting scent of warm coffee beans shop. Literally from floors to ceilings to menus to and fresh sandwiches. You stop to look around and music playlists and everything.” absorb your surroundings; take in the beautiful As Eckhardt came closer to retirement from eclectic decor. The first thing you notice is behind the her previous career, she and her husband began counter; an orange accent wall embellished with eye- scouting potential locales to finally execute their like motifs, the door in its center leading towards the dream into reality. They had been interested in their kitchen. Your eyes scan to the far-left corner of the current location for a long time, though it was already building and land on a sitting area with a group of occupied by a dry-cleaning business. Yet, when seats centered around a rustic wooden piano. The stopped in traffic one fateful afternoon in October of area is separated from the rest of the room by a rustic, 2019, “[She saw] a woman putting a ‘for rent’ sign in homesteader-barn-style window accentuated with the window. [Eckhardt] immediately called and said, green-stained glass panes. In front of that sit two take it down, I want to rent your spot,” and in mere recycled church pews accompanied with two-person hours, the Eckhardt’s had met with the owners, dining tables spanning their length. Above the pews rented the space, formed a business entity, and were is a stunning floral mural, its fluidity contrasted by ready to take on such an exhilarating opportunity. the colorful geometric pattern that lines the column Dawg Print: Can you describe the whole process of to its left. The floor is polished concrete, and the renting the space to renovating to decorating to ceiling—decorated with Edison bulbs—shows its actually running the business? exposed beams and ventilation ducts. To the front of Lori Eckhardt: Well, first we gutted the entire place the establishment, pressed up against the windows and then went to the Township of Springfield to on either side of the door, are two wood-stained obtain all the documents we needed to open a countertops and retro-looking aluminum bar stools business in town. There was a lot of paperwork to overlooking Mountain Ave, otherwise known as complete—a business concept plan, floor plans, Springfield’s main street. Your eyes make their way menus, signs, window signage, seating information, back to the center, focusing on the copper-lined how we planned to get to work, how our employees countertop that holds the cash register and a myriad would get to work, etc. of coffee machines and bottled ingredients. Its siding We hired an architect to draw up a site plan for us so is composed of corrugated aluminum sheet metal, we could submit that to the Township for approval of accentuated by a weathered door placed horizontally our business. Certain locations are zoned for specific on its left side. There is soft chatter, for the restaurant businesses, so they needed to see that what we is quite busy during lunch time, and some sort of soft wanted to do here fit the zoning. After we got all of indie pop music plays in the background. It is quite our preliminary approvals, the fun really began. My the perfect place to spend with friends after school, husband is a contractor by trade, so I would come up or to simply stop by for a quick cup of coffee, tea, or with an idea for a design and he would execute it some outrageously delicious hot chocolate. physically for me. The design process was pretty fluid Opening a coffee shop has been a dream thirty and, in a way, developed as we went along. There years in the making for co-founder and co-owner, were definitely certain things we wanted to Lori Eckhardt. incorporate in the physical design, but the majority of the space came about daily. The menu concept is The Dawg Print News 9 basically [composed of the] food we like to eat, so that groups that come in regularly, [and] local kids do was pretty easy. We wanted to offer food that is hybrid afternoons from here.” minimally processed and a little healthier. Everything DP: Have you ever considered adding a live music is cooked fresh. We do not have a microwave, either. component or open-mic sessions? All of our sauces and dressings are made in-house, so LE: Yes, absolutely, one-hundred percent. [We are that is challenging and time consuming. Every single looking into hosting] open mics, poetry, and art dish that someone orders is physically being made shows. We have had a lot of inquiries about art shows for that person. We offer vegetarian, vegan, and and we are working with someone now to start that gluten free options in our food, as well as baked up. goods. I think the community is really appreciative of DP: What would you say is your best and most these selections as well. The coffee was a little bit popular dish? What was the idea behind that harder, [because] the coffee component is very particular dish? Is there a story behind it? involved and complex. We met our LE: We have a few, but the HALO roaster while out on “date night” at a breakfast wrap is pretty popular. It latte art class in Jersey City. We really basically came about because I love hash liked the espresso we were drinking and browns . . . Apparently lots of people do started talking to the barista and he told too though, so [it is] very popular. The us how “chill” the coffee roaster was, and Bombay Sandwich [is also] very he gave me his contact information. After popular. It [is] a sandwich with green a few meetings and explaining our vision chutney, cucumbers, potatoes, onions, it became a no-brainer that he would be and Amul cheese. It [is] on the menu our coffee supplier and basically our all because I love the flavors with the around go-to for anything relating to chutney and I love potatoes. Our coffee. The planets were definitely aligned and we Blueberry French Toast is very popular on lucked out meeting him. weekends—so much so that we always run out. That DP: What was it like, having to move along with the one came about by my and my husband’s process of starting a food-based business during the experimenting with different types of bread. pandemic? DP: What has your overall experience been like, LE: We originally planned to open up March 2020, so finally turning your dream of opening a coffee shop we were going to just be specialty coffee and baked into a reality? goods with the intention of, in the future, adding a LE: Opening Halo Roasters has really been a lot of kitchen. Since we had to remain closed anyway, my hard work. I [do not] think I have worked this hard in husband suggested that we just change the plans up twenty-seven years, ever. We have very long days— and go for the full kitchen, so [that is] what we did. A seventeen hours every day, seven days a week. Since lot of people definitely told us that we were crazy for we opened on October 31, we have had off [on] even thinking of doing a food business during a Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Year’s Day, and Easter. pandemic. The process was so slow because of We closed early on two snow storms and had a everything being shut down. However, it enabled us delayed opening one day because of the weather. I to be a little more thorough and figure out how will say that I am very stimulated and challenged businesses would be operating in the future. mentally, in a good way. I am learning new things DP: What does your primary consumer base look every day. There [has] been a lot of trial and error. like? Honestly, knowing how I feel now about working and LE: Our primary consumer base is basically having Halo Roasters, I would really feel sad [if we everyone—all ages, races, ethnicities, genders, etc. had never tried opening]. The process has been very We have met a lot of really interesting people since emotionally rewarding—when you have the we have opened. A lot of folks come here every day opportunity to do something you are passionate and set up [their remote] office[s] and work all day about; you have to go for it. Tune out the noise from from here. We have a few nursing student study anyone who is not on board, [and] just go hard. As they say, the journey is the destination. The Dawg Print School News 10

THINGS ARE FINALLY HAPPENING…MEET THE PRESIDENTS RESPONSIBLE By: Sarah Zarember, 2021 After a year and half of cancelled events, low also serves as a vice-president of Model UN, co- morale, and the continuation of the “Zoom School” captain of the Quiz Bowl team, and member of phenomenon, it seems as if things are finally looking Dayton’s morning news broadcasts. He has up for the class of ’21. With promises and tickets for championed student-sponsored events for years an in-person prom, senior picnic, and graduation including jailbreak tournaments, as well as working coming up in the next few weeks, there is finally lots with the PTSO to set up the highly successful food to be excited about for many kids who feel as if they truck festival this past April. As he is the highest-up have missed out on the traditional high school senior student leadership position of the school, the experience. However, none of this would be possible paramount facet of Gary’s job involves his without the tireless efforts of the student body, communication and collaboration with the PTSO and specifically the two senior presidents spearheading the administration. He believes the legacy he will normalization efforts. leave behind is one “not so focused on fundraisers, Aiden Forys is a career-long vice president, but about promoting open communication” between but has been elected to serve as the class president the student and administrative bodies of JDHS. Gary for senior year. Forys truly exemplifies diversified elaborated on entering his presidential position in a leadership within the school, serving as the captain of stressful period during freshman year, in the midst of two varsity sports teams, vice-president of Model UN, the Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School shooting and prolific trumpeter in band in addition to his work and subsequent student walkout, only to leave in a on the student council. His work this year focused on stressful period as the coronavirus rages on almost organizing a senior prom, virtual student-council 1.5 years after the globe’s initial quarantines. events such as Trivia Night throughout the year, and When juxtaposing current times with the internal development for his various clubs. In tumultuous nature of the past two school years, it is interviewing Forys, it became clear that his work incredible what the student council has been able to ethic is based around being a strong example of accomplish in the midst of such adversity. As character and service for others around him. When expressed by both presidents during their asked about what legacy he wanted to leave upon his interviews, there is finally something to look forward graduation, he advised underclassmen to “meet as to for students. Senior in-person attendance rates many people as possible in high school. Becoming a have more than tripled since the beginning of school, part of all types of demographics in the school, with class sizes approaching normalcy. A definite especially in high school which can be very cliquey, senior prom and an in-person graduation ceremony has allowed me to meet so many new people and have, for the first time in well over a year, provided make many unexpected friends along the way. Just something to genuinely look forward to for students. reach out.” As frustrating as the past year has been for students Alex Gary has been the long-time president of undergoing the transition from heavily involved to the class of 2021, transitioning to president of the displaced in their extracurriculars, the fruits of school for the 2020-21 school year. When not student labor are finally ripening this spring as the working with the rest of the student council, Gary world prepares to be normal again. INTERVIEW WITH SUPERINTENDENT GOLDBERG By: Brielle Ramundo, 2021 Dawg Print Editor-in-Chief Brielle Ramundo greatly with your arrival. Many were impressed interviews Springfield Public Schools’ new about the "student focus group" that was held a few Superintendent, Ms. Goldberg. weeks ago. What are your thoughts on this becoming Dawg Print: Communication between the a regular event? administration and the students has improved The Dawg Print School News 11

Ms. Goldberg: First, I think Dr. Francis and our DP: The seniors have evidently had a rough year due school and district leaders have been working to the pandemic. What advice would you give them incredibly hard to navigate a school year full of twists for college? and turns, and I am incredibly grateful for their work MG: It is so hard to say that I can give “advice” about to communicate with students and families. Second, the future, because we are still navigating a very student voices are essential to our district. When we different world. Maybe instead of advice, I will share started the school year, I had the opportunity to meet how I have been working through this experience, with student council, and throughout the school year and how I think about it. The pandemic has have had students contact me directly with both influenced every part of our lives, and has altered our notes of support and concern about their experiences future in little and big ways. As students plan for in the school. We have two students who are a part college or other post-high school plans, my “advice” of the Diversity Council created this school year, and is to honor your own experience. There are no two I am looking forward to more opportunities to listen experiences that are identical, and each person’s to student perspectives. We have more focus groups experience is valuable. Honor the fear and anxiety scheduled over the next few weeks to provide that you felt; those were/are incredible moments of feedback on planning for the 21-22 school year, and self-protection. Honor the big and little moments of my goal is to continue to meet with students to learn joy that you felt because of this experience, the first about how their experiences can help us strengthen time you got to hug a friend or a family member again, our educational programs. your first day back on the athletic field, the first day DP: What are your hopes/goals for the next school back in-person at school. When you are reflecting on year (2021-2022)? this time, don’t forget the things you learned about MG: My hope for next school year is that we are able yourself that you might not have known before, the to support as “normal” of a school year as possible. I fears you overcame and how you managed that am looking forward to seeing plays, visiting process, the ways you became productive and classrooms where students are debating and managed your own learning, and what you find most engaging in challenging learning, and to getting to valuable. As you move to new experiences in life, enjoy school musicals, art shows, athletic events, and your experience during this period has provided a all of the wonderful energy of schools filled with powerful learning that you will carry with you students! throughout your life. As Winnie the Pooh reminds us, “You're braver than you believe, stronger than you seem and smarter than you think.”

AN INSIDE LOOK AT THE OTHER SIDE By: Cassandra Cadillo, 2022 As students of JDHS, we have been able to the school year like twice a week or something. It was share our experiences with Online School and like “come on if you can,” but in September it was express our likes and dislikes in regards to it. I going to be a full-day everyday thing. I was nervous, decided to interview Mrs. Kuszmerski, JDHS AP but not overly nervous. Somehow, I felt like it was English 4 and English 1 teacher, about her experience going to be okay. We were all going to do our best and with Online School in order to gain insight on how the just lower our expectations. other side of the screen thinks about how this school DP: Were there any challenges that appeared right year has been. away? Dawg Print: What was your mindset going into this MK: I don’t think I expected for it to be such a Remote School year? challenge for students to show their faces. I don’t Mrs. Kuszmerski: I was nervous. We had never done think that is something that we talked enough about anything quite like this before. In the spring, it was as a faculty. We did not really discuss whether it still voluntary for students to come onto Zoom would be okay for students to keep their cameras off. Meetings. We were offering them towards the end of I mean we sort of decided that it wasn’t okay, but I The Dawg Print School News 12 just didn’t expect to get so much resistance. In my school and face that social pressure all the time. It can freshman class, I’m looking at the ceilings all day. It’s be freeing to just be at home in your sweatpants. I such a struggle because I feel like that’s such an think in-person is really important, but it would be important part of making a connection with nice to have a combination. I’ll say this one thing: the someone. When you can’t actually be in person with group work has been amazing this year. When you’re someone, the next best thing is seeing their facial in a classroom, and the teacher says to you: “okay expressions. You can learn a lot from that. So, that’s make groups,” either the teacher makes them for you been really difficult. Another is just not having any and you don’t really love that, or sometimes you idea about what’s going on in anybody’s life. make your own groups and there are kids who get left DP: What do you miss about in-person school? out. Now, it’s random. Most of the time I randomly MK: I miss how much fun we had. I think I have a assign students to breakout rooms. Everybody gets a reputation for being a certain kind of teacher. I think partner, and there are no hurt feelings. I know we are sometimes students are afraid of me, but when they talking about high school, but imagine how nice that come to the classroom and we spend time together, must feel in the younger grades. That must feel great they realize that I’m not a scary person and that we to not have to worry whether you are going to be can actually have a lot of fun together. However, this picked for a group. I think that we need to consider is primarily for my Freshman students. I feel like AP some of the benefits that have come from online students are going to be high-achieving no matter school and figure out how we can carry that over. what. They are going to make it work no matter what. DP: As an AP teacher, you have big responsibilities. It’s really my freshmen that I think have had the What is it like trying to teach students difficult hardest time. I think what’s been missing is the fun material, as well as prepare them for AP exams under that we would have had together and the bonding these circumstances? that would’ve resulted from that. It’s been kind of MK: I’m not sure if I should admit this, but I feel that weird instead. I think now in May they get that I’m not it didn’t really go that differently than it would have a scary person, but it took a lot longer. I actually had in person. From a student’s perspective, it might a Freshman student in my class the other day and he have. It’s probably not that important, but from my looked like he had just had an awful morning. I end, I feel that I was able to do almost everything that walked by him, put my hand on his back, and asked I would’ve done from under other circumstances. The him what was wrong. It was just a small little thing, only thing that was different was that because of but immediately he started telling me what went Kami, I wasn’t able to make comments inside wrong. It was like all he needed was someone to show students’ essays. I was only able to make overall him like “I care about you. I care that you’re upset,” comments instead. I have to say, however, maybe that you know what I mean? Over the computer, that is not such a bad thing. I was really burning myself could never happen. out making all those small comments on students’ DP: How do you feel about the differences between essays in the past. It was kind of nice for me to be like In-Person School and Online School in regards to “okay here’s some big things to think about,” instead interactions with students? of worrying about every little error. I mean, we did MK: Well, I will say that I will miss the chat function everything that we would’ve done under other on Zoom. Having Some of the side conversations with circumstances except my AP class didn’t get to read students without other students knowing has been one of the books. However, maybe that wasn’t such a great. Otherwise when you’re in the classroom, how bad thing anyway. In regards to AP exams, AP do you ask someone “oh how is your father?” without Literature is not the same as other courses. You don’t everyone else knowing? In my perfect world, we have to go through all of history, and I don’t have to would carry over a combination of both In-Person follow a timeline. I can teach my students the same school and Online School. I’d love to have a lot of in- skills with two books than I can with ten books since person, so perhaps maybe 75% in-person and 25% AP Literature is a very skill-based course. remote. Students have been able to sleep later and go DP: We have heard a lot about how much of a toll to the bathroom whenever they want. I think some online school has taken on students’ lives. How has students thrive virtually, in their own home online school affected your life? environment. Not everyone wants to come to a high The Dawg Print School News 13

MK: If I’m being honest, I kind of liked Online school. DP: What do you think about the toll online school There was a lot that I liked about it. I understand why has taken on the students’ lives? we can’t do this all the time because it definitely does MK: I mean I have a lot of students who are falling not work for a lot of students. The only thing that I behind. I have no idea what’s going on in their lives don’t like is that some days I’m literally on my that makes them miss class regularly or not do their computer for one meeting after the other. It’s tough work. It’s the not knowing that really troubles me. I being on the computer…. like literally on the eyes have really hated not knowing what’s going on in my because my eyes start to hurt. Otherwise, it has been students’ lives this year. If we were in person, I nice to have a little bit more flexibility with the wouldn’t have to be guessing where they are. I feel schedule. I have a lot more time to grade stuff, and I like the conversations about missing assignments am doing more work for my students. I’ll miss the would be quite different. I think it’s important to larger blocks of time and the flexibility that comes consider that there are students who have benefitted with them. I don’t think it has taken any toll on my from this kind of learning, as well as recognize that life, but I see the toll it has taken on some of the there are students who haven’t. students’ lives. That’s why this doesn’t work.

KEEPING UP WITH THE ENVIRONMENTAL CLUB By: Natalyah Cadiche, 2022 The Environmental Club has been hard at as a form of mulch for the trees and plants throughout work attempting to make Jonathan Dayton an eco- the courtyard. friendly and environmentally aware place. Recently, Aside from the club’s pond restoration the club has been hosting planting sessions in which initiative, the members also used their time in the members and interested Jonathan Dayton students courtyards to prepare the fruiting tree species for from all grade levels are able to visit the courtyard harvest season. Mr. Davison, the club advisor, and assist in various restorative projects. At one of recently taught members that fruiting plants often the clubs most recent events, the team worked on produce more fruit when their branches are vertical cleaning out the fish pond located in the courtyard. as opposed to the natural upright position tree The restoration process has included scrapping branches usually develop. To assist the trees in “muck” from the bottom of the pond and transferring having a more vertical figure in order to induce fruit the muck to be used as fertilizer for the various pair, production, Mr. Davison and the Environmental Club pomegranate, and other trees scattered throughout students utilized to very key tools, weights and string. the courtyard. Through this process, the students In order to be as resourceful as possible, club hope to not only rid the pond of excessive algae, members searched the courtyard and found a grime, and residue but to also recycle these waste multitude of items from stray bricks, to rocks, and products to be used as a form of fertilizer that will even a large cow bone to be used as weights. assist the existing tree species and help them thrive. Members then tied these “weights” to pieces of string. Another very significant part of the Environmental The weights were then tied to the branches of the Club’ pond maintenance is breaking down the many fruit trees available in the courtyard and would invasive tree species that has formed a border essentially force the branches to maintain a around the pond. A very light, dry, and fast-growing horizontal position. This procedure was the first of tree type has spread around the perimeter of the many steps the Environmental Club plans to take in pond. The spreading of the tree species has the preparation for the harvest season. potential to overcrowd the area and preventing local Aside from muckraking, gardening, and the wildlife from entering the pond and developing a many hands-on maintenance projects the club has natural ecosystem. To prevent these negative effects, adopted, the organizations weekly meetings have the students of the Environmental Club have worked also been a place of heavy discussion and planning. to break down the surrounding trees and use the Within meetings one can often hear conversations thinker sparser sections in addition to the pond muck about Environmental advocacy, sign petitions, learn about their representatives, and even receive The Dawg Print Sports 14 information regarding email banking and actively all funds will go towards the Environmental Clubs lobbying for new legislation to protect the worlds efforts to make the courtyard an in-school garden for remaining natural resources. Recent meetings have all students and faculty. also featured conversations regarding the ongoing The Environmental Club has actively been Fish sponsorship fundraiser. With this fundraiser, taking steps to not only make the school an Eco- students are able to pay a certain amount of money friendly and environmentally active place but also to to purchase and name a fish that will later be ensure that Springfield, New Jersey, and even the deposited into the courtyard’s pond. The prices and United States as a whole begins to take steps towards fish types range from $1 Gold fish to $5 Koi Fish and protecting our planet.

DAYTON GIRLS’ VARSITY VOLLEYBALL: COVID SEASON CHAMPIONS By: Adriana Rivera, 2023 On Tuesday, April 20th, the Jonathan Dayton kind of hard, but in the end, it was a great season,” girls’ varsity volleyball team won the sectional finals comments Sophomore Katie Pascutie, a starting against the New Providence Pioneers, earning the middle hitter on the JV team. first-ever championship title for the program and In addition to daily screenings, the volleyball making school history in the process. season this year lost approximately one month of It was not exactly an easy feat, however. practice time that, in previous years, has been used to Playing during the 2020–2021 school year establish and strengthen connections between came with its own challenges in light of New teammates (especially incoming Freshmen), polish Jersey’s—and the entire country’s— both the technical and tactical aspects slow recovery from the ongoing of the game on the court, and Coronavirus pandemic that forced the replenish the warrior-like world into lockdown just last March. competitive spirit necessary for Just like every other occasion getting the upper hand over consisting of the gathering of several opponents. people in an enclosed facility for The delayed season came along extended periods of time, the Dayton with strict spectator guidelines, Volleyball program underwent a limiting each player to two parents or series of strict regulations this past guardians for home games only. All season that were to be followed by matches were livestreamed and staff, players, and spectators alike. published on the Springfield Schools The season—usually set to Live Events Youtube channel, begin in August and run until early to specifically created to suit the mid-November as part of the fall spectator restrictions brought about sports program—was postponed to by the Coronavirus pandemic. This begin in March and shortened to run until mid-April was, to an extent, devastating for the Seniors who in concurrence with spring sports like baseball, were highly looking forward to seeing people softball, and track and field. Each player was required overflowing the stands coming to watch special to complete and submit what became known as the events like Dig Pink, Senior Night, and, of course, the infamous “COVID form,” a daily questionnaire to be championship match. “[I]t was hard not [having] submitted within the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m., more of my friends and family support me in the used to ensure that individuals were not showing any stands but [it was] worth it and [I am] so glad I was Coronavirus symptoms, nor had been susceptible to able to at least get a full season,” adds Senior Lauren contracting the disease through irresponsible contact Reiher, a starting outside hitter on the varsity team. with others. The Bulldogs, nonetheless, rose to the “[The season] was definitely different, and challenge and—with a well put-together starting remembering to fill out a COVID form every day was lineup of three underclassmen, one Junior, and three The Dawg Print Sports 15

Seniors—they managed to maintain a record of 10-2, first, but during the final set we really did an amazing triumphing over season rival Roselle Park a total of job picking it up,” comments Lauren Reiher. four times. The final win against the Roselle Park Senior middle hitter Stephanie Parente adds, Panthers awarded Dayton a spot in the “It felt amazing knowing that we were the first team championship—the most highly anticipated match of ever at Dayton to [win a volleyball title]. Throughout the season. my four years of playing volleyball at Dayton, it has They had been aiming for a title win during always been a team goal to get the banner. Finally the prior 2019–2020 season, but were not able to pull getting it, especially Senior year, made me feel so it off due to a disappointing loss against Hasbrouck strong.” The feeling seems to be universal among the Heights in the first round of the state tournament. Seniors on the team, middle hitter and co-captain This year, however, the Bulldogs were equipped with Bellamy Eckhardt saying, “I was so proud of everyone a fairly new and talented team that sparked a and everything we accomplished,” opposite hitter newfound hope for a potential championship win. Nicole Cataldo adding, “There really [was no] better “There was so much riding on pulling out a win, way the season could have ended for us.” considering that it was the closest Dayton Volleyball Although having to play during a pandemic had ever been to earning a title, so we were all sort of with a drastically shortened season and a plethora of feeling the pressure,” says Sophomore Sophie restrictive regulations was not exactly the most Abramovitz, an opposite hitter on varsity, on the desirable way to go about their 2020–2021 season, feelings of anticipation among the team in the days the girls’ varsity volleyball team sure made the most leading up to the final match. of it by winning the first championship title for the Finally—after days of excited anticipation— program, and having a blast while doing so. Kennedy the Bulldogs accomplished a quick yet exhilarating Kwinta, Junior setter and co-captain comments, “[We two-set victory against the New Providence Pioneers, were] just super grateful to be able to play [since] scoring 25-18 in the first set and 25-20 in the second. throughout the whole year it was up in the air “New Providence has always had the upper hand [whether we would have a season at all]; it was [still] against Dayton in sports but my team and I came in honestly a really fun experience and I think everyone ready to win that banner. It was nerve-racking at made the best out of it.”

SPRING SPORTS: AN ATHLETE’S LIFE DURING TIMES OF NEWFOUND HOPE By: Anthony Bianchi, 2024 The Dawg Print’s Anthony Bianchi and it’s a privilege to still be playing without any shut interviewed Brandyn Bernknopf, Kieran Conway, downs so far. and Peter Ramirez: three athletes playing on the JDHS Peter Ramirez: Yes, I have. My spring sport baseball team during the spring. Below are a few experience so far this year has been great. I have questions to give the student body and faculty an gotten a long with my teammates very well and we opportunity to see the perspective of these athletes have become like a family. We are working hard to in light of the recent uplifts in safety restrictions due accomplish the ultimate goal which is to win a state to COVID-19. championship, and with the help of our coaches Dawg Print: How have you enjoyed your spring teaching and motivating us, that goal doesn’t seem sport experience so far this year? too farfetched. So far in the season we have had our Brandyn Bernknopf: I have loved my experience rough patches, and hot streaks but there is still a long with baseball so far, my coaches have made this year season ahead and every day we push to get closer and memorable. I have reconnected with people that I closer to the ultimate goal. have already known. DP: How has it felt to play a sport with looser Kieran Conway: So far, I’ve really enjoyed the restrictions as opposed to earlier this year? baseball season so far. I felt that overall the coaches BB: It feels like things are coming back to normal. and teammates have given me a great season so far During the fall season we got shut down if someone in the town had Covid-19. We have not been shut The Dawg Print Sports 16 down for the spring season and I hope it continues to this virus. Due to vaccine’s coming out and the virus stay that way. be more controlled that it is appropriate to lower KC: It has definitely allowed us to enjoy our sport guidelines. more without having to worry so much about losing DP: What do you feel Jonathan Dayton’s coaching or a teammate missing a COVID form or be kept from teaching staff has done to make this spring season playing in any way. memorable despite the coronavirus? PR: Honestly it has been okay, it just requires a little BB: This is my first year at Dayton and all coaches and more responsibility. teachers have been very welcoming to the school and DP: Do you feel more or less safe playing your sport sports, and understanding of the pandemic going on now that not as many guidelines are needed to now. control the spread of the virus? KC: Overall with my personal experience, I feel the BB: I have always felt safe playing baseball and there coaching staff has responsibly managed practices and are less restrictions now compared to during the fall games. They’ve also helped us overcome this obstacle when I played football. Football is a contact sport and instead use it to teach us how to overcome many which poses a greater risk of possibly transmitting more endeavors that we’ll eventually endure in the Covid-19. future. KC: I feel rather indifferent as I feel that it was more PR: The coaching staff for Jonathan Dayton’s baseball necessary in previous seasons when many athletes has done has done beyond great to make this year were getting sick and more teams were getting shut memorable despite all that is going on due to the down, but considering how many people are pandemic. These coaches are teaching us and getting vaccinated and how less people around the school are us better at baseball every day we step on the field. getting COVID, I feel that these looser guidelines are Not only that but they are using baseball as an perfectly safe. opportunity to teach us lessons and get us ready for PR: I don’t feel any safer nor less safe with less the real world. While going all that they manage to guidelines. I feel you are at your own risk and you can make it an extremely fun experience. go as far as you feel about protecting yourself from

“I WOULD RATHER…” AP EDITION By: Diana Elguera, 2023 It is that time of year again - AP season. Still underway, many JDHS students have or have yet to take their AP exams before they can feel a little more at peace this year. If Dayton students had the choice, however, what would they much rather be doing than sitting for a two-to-three-hour exam? Here are some of the responses: 4 people said, “[I would rather] sleep/be sleeping.” 3 people said, “I would rather be having fun/hanging out with friends than taking my AP exams.” 3 people said, “[I would rather do] anything (literally, anything).” 3 people said, “I would rather be watching /catch up on TV.” 3 people said, “I would rather be eating (a tub of ice cream).” 2 people said, “I would rather be relaxing on a beach.” 2 people said, “I would rather be playing games.” In particular, one person said, “I would rather be saving the world, fighting five-thousand-six-hundred and two villains all at the SAME TIME, and playing video games simultaneously than be taking my AP exam!” 1 person said, “I would rather be playing soccer.” 1 person said, “I would rather be spending more time with my family.” 1 person said, “I would rather be kissing a walnut bear-” 1 person said, “I would rather wear wet socks for a week.” 1 person said, “I would rather go back to Space Mountain than take my AP exam.”

The Dawg Print Extras 17

FAVORITE MEMORIES OF THE YEAR Compiled by Victoria Perez, 2023 Dawg Print writer Victoria Perez conducted a survey reflecting on favorite memories from this past year at Dayton. Despite the challenging times, it is remarkable to see that many students were happy to recollect on memories they made during this school year. Here are the results: This year's gym class has been very fun. - Kellen Peters, 9th Grade Despite the challenging procedures, everyone was able to persevere and make the year worthwhile. - Anthony Bianchi, 9th Grade I will never forget the way we had to sing during choir. Mrs. Bauers would have us unmute ourselves and mute the volume on our laptops so we could not hear each other. I thought it was the funniest thing, I could not stop laughing. - Madison Capodice, 9th Grade Winning a banner in the gym for volleyball! - Dahlia Scraedar, 9th Grade I don't know if I have a favorite memory. But even though I don't know how to say it, all of this year was really great. I enjoyed working on projects like building our own invention or writing our own newspaper. At the same time, learning about Biology was pretty fun. It's impossible to say all of the things I like about this year; there were a lot of things I missed out on, like going in-person. And there have been moments when one feels discouraged and sad. But I am glad I got to experience 9th grade, and hopefully make some friends before the year is over. Good luck in 2022! - Roy Joseph, 9th Grade My favorite memory from this year is my time in Honors Chem with Doc. Despite spending most of the year completely on Zoom, our class had a lot of fun while learning. - Katie Pascuite, 10th Grade When we did a word search game before Winter Break in Mrs. Garrod's class; it was fun. - Diana Elguera, 10th Grade Mr. Silva's phenomenal class and fun projects. Best teacher I've had and is truly great. - Kevin Lora, 11th Grade I will never forget going into school in November for two days and being so happy to see familiar faces and step away from my computer. Now that I have been going in since January, I love the opportunity to see my friends, teachers, and classmates and be able to get back into a somewhat normal routine. - Nicole Ramundo, 11th Grade FAVORITE SUMMER SHOWS By: Brielle Ramundo, 2021 Which shows are Dayton students planning to watch this summer? According to the results of a recent poll, 20 students will be watching Outer Banks (Netflix) 18 students will be watching High School Musical: The Musical: The Series (Disney Plus) 12 students will be watching WandaVision (Disney Plus) 11 students will be watching Ginny and Georgia (Netflix) 6 students will be watching Shadow and Bone (Netflix) 6 students will be watching Julie and the Phantoms (Netflix) 6 students will be watching (Netflix) 4 students will be watching The Wilds (Amazon Prime) 2 students will be watching Fate: The Winx Saga (Netflix) 2 students will be watching Cruel Summer (Freeform/Hulu) Other responses included The Bad Batch (Disney Plus), New Girl (Fox/Netflix), and upcoming movies such as The Kissing Booth 3 (Netflix).