freshman guidancecounselorMurrell. instantly withthestaf students. Isaid‘hey “Iwaslookingforwardtoworkingwithhighschool staff memberswerefeaturedintheOctober2020issue. Carmela Iannicelli,andschoolnurseMs.LoisBreton.Other parted Nov LaChance, EnglishteacherMs.KristinIadarola(whode- Kereme Murrell,physicaleducationteacherMr Kennedy duringthe2020-2021academicyear Public Schoolshasassigned12newstaffmemberstojoin CallingallnewEagles! Friday ously Mr NEW ENGLISHTEACHER News Editor By JessicaCarvalho the newwing’ NEW PHYSICAL Thankful for12newstaff,facultywhojoinedin2020 NEW GUIDANCECOUNSELOR T interview withNewsEditorJessicaCarvalhoviaGoogleMeet 2020 at1 Editor JessicaCarvalhoviaGoogleMeetW NEW SOCIALWORKER uesday How muchdoyouknowaboutthisdeadly Those notyetintroducedareguidancecounselorMr disease thatcanbeprevented?It’snot , Nov As reportedintheOctober2020issue,

Ea The . Miller'sclassroom) Friday , Oct.23,2020at12:25p.m. 1:28 a.m. . 13foraposition inS COVID-19; thereisavaccine. . 13toteachinS s auxiliarygymMonday EDUCA , thisisadreamcometrue.’ Read page2 W TION TEACHER f membershereatKennedy Mrs.IannicelliisinterviewedbyNews Ms.Iadarolaisseen inRoom1 arm welcomescontinueforsocialworker tamford), socialworkerMrs. t amford, Conn. Mr , Oct.23,2020; she dep . Murrellisseenduringhis , Oct.26,2020. g Mr All photosbyJ.Carvalho/staff . LaChanceisseenin ednesday . Iconnected le F W , Oct.28, aterbury 1 . Mark 1 (previ- ,” said arted . obtained hermaster University) forabachelor Iannicelli transferredto become arespiratorytherapist,thenchangedhercareerpath. Initially working inthisfieldfor29years,”saidIannicelli. “I’vebeenasocialworkersince1991,thereforeI’ve Now nice toherandshehasbeenableadapttechnology IannicellimentionedeveryoneatKennedyhasbeenvery stand something,madethemhappy I helpedsomebody “Myfavoritepartofbeingasocialworkerisknowingthat NextisMrs.CarmelaIannicelli,thenewsocialworker with (my)twodaughters,”saidMurrell. Besides sports,Ienjoygoingtothegymandspendingtime time, Ilikewatchingsportsgames;particularlybaseball. “Iclassifymyselfasan the schoolcommunity Healsosaidhevisualizeshimselfdoinggreatthingsfor very welcoming.I’vebeenenjoyingmyself,”Murrellsaid. I expectedtohaveapositiveexperienceandithasbeen “MyexperiencehasbeeneverythingIexpectedittobe. University with family Iannicellievenranforof ther myhorizonsandpossiblyworkinaschoolsystem.” ago, Idecidedtotakeanexamformycertificationandfur- director at dren andFamilies.Fromthere,Igotlaidoff.workedasa I workedforthestateofConnecticut’ with juveniledelinquentboys,”saidIannicelli.“Afterthat, “Inthebeginningofmycareerasasocialworker lege. Shehashadmuchexperienceinherchosenfield. bachelor attended EasternConnecticutStateUniversityforhis MurrellwasanacademicadvisorpriortoKennedy said Murrell. messages. Finally my GoogleClassroom,Imakesuretoaddinpositive and I’llgetbacktothematalaterdate.Theycanalsojoin virtually isbymyQRcode.TheycansetupaGoogleMeet “Theeasiestwaytomeetwithmebothinpersonand of freshmen.HowcantheycontactMurrell? only ishenewtothebuilding,buttherealsoagroup MurrellhasbeenenjoyinghistimeatKennedy “Presently ages 12,11and 6.Hediscussedanamusing part ofhislife. they havethree children:Sebastian,Leonardo andEstelle; College. Heismarriedtohis highschoolsweetheartand PriortoKennedy objectives,” hesaid. Everyone seemstobeonthesamepageandhas “Myfavoritepartaboutthebuildinghasbeenstaff. HefoundthatatKennedy looking foracomprehensiveschoolsetting. been willingtogetknowme,”saidLaChance,whowas the students(whowere)inschoolareverynice.Theyhave “Iwishthereweremorestudentsatschool.However the physicaleducationdepartment. FollowingherisMr our homeandIloveshoppingtraveling,”saidIannicelli. born andraisedinthe “MyparentsarebothfromItaly there toknowabouther? her 12-year-olddaughterwhoisin7thgrade.Whatelse currently holdsit.Iannicelliisaproudwifeandmotherto However worker after thisshedecidedtoapplyforapositionassocial University his undergraduatedegreeat Southern ConnecticutState LaChancehasbeenteaching for16years.Hecompleted out ofthedistrict,”hesaid. school inthecityforeightyearsandthenpriortothatIwas “Iwasteachingphysicaleducationandhealthatanother , howlonghasshebeenpracticingasasocialworker? . Unfortunately ’ , sheappliedforthepositionagainthisyearand s degreeandcompletedhismaster W , andnowenjoysthisnewexperience. , andobtainedhismaster We thankallofyou:custodians, food serviceworkers,adminis- , IannicelliattendedSacredHeartUniversityto . , myfamilyand Iareraisingsixegg-layingchick- olcott trators, faculty W e’re currentlyintheprocessofremodeling , theycouldalwayscontactmeviaemail,” . KnowingthatIhelpedsomeoneunder V ’ , LaChancewasteachingin s inSocial iew Manor T Read page4 ly . Heshareddetailsabouthimself . MarkLaChance,anewadditionto own Plotarea.Ilovespendingtime T , shedidn’ eikyo PostUniversity(now ’ fice in2003 s degreeinSociologyandthen African-American. Inmyfree , hesaid. , supportst W , anursinghome. ork fromSpringfieldCol- ’ , etc.”shesaid. s degreeatSpringfield . MysisterandIwere s DepartmentofChil- , nurse,guidancecounselor t gettheposition. er W ’ aterbury s degreeatPost af f! W T , Iworked aterbury wo years . Itwas . Not . He , all . - . . “Pursuewhatyoulikeandgotocollege,”shesaid. Bretonalsoleftsomeadviceforyoungergenerations: It’ “IlivealongtheBridleTrailandIlovewalkingmydog. dog Pearl,whoisawhiteLabradormix. especially hertwograndsons.Sheenjoyswalkingwith nurse. Shesaidsheenjoysspendingtimewithherfamily Bretonhasbeenpracticingformorethan30yearsasa enjoyed nursing,”saidBreton. I wasexposedtothehealthcarefieldandfoundthat pursue nursing.However “Idon’thaveaspecificreasonastowhyIdecided Naugatuck her educationfromSaintMary’ Kennedy Owens retired,Bretonappliedforherposition.Priorto school asanextrahelpingnurse.WhennurseMrs. Bretonwasfloatingbetweenamiddleschoolandhigh wonderful tome,”saidBreton. ously wecan’ imagined. Iexpectedallthestudentstobeherebutobvi- “MyexperiencehasbeenquitedifferentfromwhatIhad LastbutnotleastisMs.LoisBreton,thenewnurse. restaurants,” saidIadarola. also lovegoingouttoeatandtryingvarioustypesof active, readingandhangingoutwithfamilyfriends.I mini goldendoodlewhosenameisRocco.Ilovestaying “Iamtheoldestoftwosiblings.Ihaveaone-year-old University versity; sheisfinishinguphergraduateworkatQuinnipiac undergraduate degreeatSouthernConnecticutStateUni- IadarolasharedsheisfromBoston,andcompletedher for herstudentsjustlikehewasus,”saidIadarola. my place.Iknewwantedtobethepersonwhowasthere I struggledandthisEnglishteacherreallyhelpedmefind person wholovedschool,Ididhavesomeclassesinwhich English teacherinhighschool.EventhoughIwasalwaysa “IchosetoteachEnglishbecauseIhadawonderful cussed herreasoningbehindbecominganEnglishteacher ford. Shehasbeenteachingfortwoyears.alsodis- Iadarolaoriginallywasalong-termsubstituteinStam- any aspect,”saidIadarola. Everyone hasbeenreallywillingtohelpmeandguidein “Ihavebeenverywelcomedbyallmyco-workers. tion totheEnglishdepartment. NextisMs.KristinIadarola,whowasthenewestaddi- said LaChance. so thechickensdon’tmindbeingheldorchasedaround,” ens! Ourkidslovethem. Owens (left)infront ofKennedyinJune2020. NEW NURSE s agreatwaytorelievestress,”saidBreton. , shewasanemer . Shegavemoredetailsaboutherself. endured. 2020changeditall. For morethanfivedecades, V Kennedy’s footballtradition Ms.Breton(right) isseenwithretirednurseMrs. alley CommunityCollege.Sowhynursing? t duetothepandemic. Read page8 Waterbury, Conn.06708 , newteachers , Iwasworkinginthehospitaland Volume XVII,IssueIV W 422 HighlandAvenue Kennedy HighSchool gency roomnurse.Sheobtained e domesticatedthemaschicks November 2020 s SchoolofNursingand All thestaf Photo abovecourtesyof L.Breton f hasbeen , . page 2, The Eagle Flyer/November 2020 Meningitis rare but deadly: learn more By Jessica Carvalho News Editor Vaccines help against some types NEWS COMMENTARY Meningitis is an inflammation Young adults are competitor. However, did this of the protective membranes con- “ guarantee she would be safe for necting to the brain and spinal cord, at exposed risk for meningitis? No. Testa had a fever typically caused by infection. meningitis. The CDC of 104 degrees that night. Despite being around for many During a phone interview, she years, cases are still considered to recommends that said, “One day we are fairly okay be fairly rare, yet can be fatal. preteens ages 11 or and the next day we could be fight- According to the Centers for 12 get the vaccin- ing for our lives.” Disease Control’s (CDC) article on She wishes she would have meningitis, there are six types of ation with a booster taken the time to get the vaccine meningitis to be aware of: bacte- dose at age 16. for Meningitis B. However, she rial, viral, fungal, parasitic, amebic, ” doesn’t regret anything that has and non-infectious meningitis. fever, and chills, to complete weak- happened to her since she uses her Bacterial meningitis (also known ness in his body. Meningitis is voice to spread awareness as much as meningococcal meningitis) is mistaken for the typical flu. Your as she can. She is also a proud caused by bacteria and can be health is on the line if you don’t team member of the National Men- deadly if not treated. Vaccines are take care of yourself. It’s very ingitis Association, as is available to help against some important to recognize the differ- Schuchardt. What is the National kinds of bacterial meningitis. Viral ences between the two. Meningitis Association? meningitis is caused by viruses. “It wasn’t until I had woken up “The National Meningitis Viral meningitis is less severe than from a medically-induced coma Association (NMA) is the largest CHAMPION bacterial meningitis. It is said that Mrs. Leslie Maier, the president of the National Meningitis Associa- after a week of contracting it nonprofit in the country in terms tion, shared this photo of her 17-year-old son Chris winning a 2004-2005 state people with normal immune sys- before I ever realized I had menin- of meningitis awareness and edu- tournament game. 24 hours after the photo was taken, he passed away due to tems can get better on their own. gitis. I had never heard of menin- cation,” said Testa. meningococcal meningitis. Photo above courtesy Mrs. Leslie Maier Fungal meningitis is quite rare to gitis before nor had any family and The NMA shares stories of contract but people can get it by friends,” said Schuchardt. many families and survivors who inhaling fungal spores from the Schuchardt is now a proud have been impacted by this dis- environment. Parasitic meningitis husband and father. Luckily, he has ease. They include members who is caused by various parasites that no physical limitations thanks to dedicate their time by using their can affect the brain or nervous his physical therapy sessions. voice to advocate for this illness system. This form of meningitis is “Early on it was a lot of physi- and they spread awareness as less common than viral or bacte- cal therapy and doctors visits. But much as possible. President of rial meningitis. Amebic meningitis as time went on I got strength back NMA, Mrs. Leslie Maier, also is a rare and tragic infection of the and I have been able to thrive from shared her personal experience brain caused by Naegleria fowleri there,” he said. with meningitis. (a free-living microscopic ameba Young adults are at exposed risk “My son was 17 and a senior in that lives in warm water and soil). for meningitis. In particular, the high school. Two weeks before he Last but not least, non-infectious CDC recommends that preteens got meningitis, he scored the win- meningitis can be caused by ages 11 or 12 get the Meningococ- ning goal for his soccer team to be certain conditions such as cancer, cal conjugate vaccination (also champions. He was healthy and head injuries and so on. known as the MenACWY) with a really active,” Maier said. “A “I look at the world differently booster dose at the age of 16. couple of days later, he went to go now. I try not to let things get to Before heading off to college or and get his pictures taken. Chris me knowing how worse it all could anywhere else, teenagers should said he wasn’t feeling well. The be. People take things for granted consider applying the Serogroup next morning, we knew we needed every day and we should stop B meningococcal vaccine (also him to miss school. We rushed him occasionally and take it all in known as the MenB). Central into the hospital and they per- before it’s gone someday,” said Connecticut State University’s formed a spinal tap on him and it BE AWARE Ms. Francesca Testa, an admissions counselor at Central Connecti- Blake Schuchardt, bacterial men- admission counselor Ms. was then when we noticed he had cut State University, shared photos from a campaign known as the 16 vaccine. ingitis survivor and ICU nurse at Francesca Testa can attest to the meningococcal meningitis. A half Photo compiled by Jessica Carvalho/staff Heartland Regional Medical previous statement because she’s an hour later, staff members stay safe and spread awareness. said Buher. Center (the same medical center lived with it herself. weren’t able to revive him and we Maier had been a kindergarten/ It is extremely important that where staff took care of him) in “I was a senior in high school had to let him go.” first grade teacher for more than 40 people know the truth about this Marion, Illinois. in 2006. I had been sick for a couple Maier lost her son Chris due to years. She is a proud grandmother illness and how it affects not only Schuchardt was diagnosed of days. The doctors believed it meningococcal meningitis. who loves spending time with her survivors, but everyone else in the with bacterial meningitis (also was the flu. I was unconscious. It Humans often forget there’s only grandchildren. world. This is no joke. As someone referred to as meningococcal men- was only until they performed a one life to live and if you think it “You have to just take one day who has lost her older brother to ingitis) at the age of 17. He had a spinal tap that they found it to be can’t happen to you, you’re mis- at a time and make the most of that this, there is no better way to keep 20 percent chance of making it meningitis,” said Testa. taken. Along with many others, day. Don’t take anything for his legacy going. He may not be in through the first night when diag- Testa was always athletic, Maier was not aware of the life- granted,” said Maier. this world but there’s a responsi- nosed. Schuchardt’s symptoms healthy and energetic. She loved threatening effects of meningitis. Likewise, NMA’s secretary and bility to keep people informed and varied from stiff neck, headache, to swim. She was an excellent “The pain of the shot is noth- school counselor Ms. Lori Buher give them the best information ing compared to the pain of losing knows how this feels all too well. possible. In conclusion, please someone you love. Meningitis can “My son Carl had severe men- stay in the know that World take a life in less than 24 hours and ingococcal meningitis at the age of Meningitis Day is April 24! it can be mistaken so easily for the 14. Luckily, he survived but had to As Helen Keller would say, flu,” said Maier. have both of his legs amputated. “keep your face to the sunshine!” Maier believes people can tell We were introduced to NMA from their family and friends about the a relative who had read about a For more information please visit: meningitis vaccines so they can all survivor,” said Buher. https://the16vaccine.org Buher has been helping out with https://www.cdc.gov/meningitis/ index.html The pain of the NMA’s mission for 15 years. She https://www.cdc.gov/meningococcal/ “ felt as if it was necessary to give vaccine-info.html shot is nothing com- back since NMA was so helpful to https://www.nmaus.org pared to the pain of their family. Buher’s son went from being okay to being completely To read advocate stories, visit: losing someone you weak. Other symptoms common Amanda Richter in love. Meningitis can among meningitis patients are People Health Magazine: https://www.nmaus.org/wp-content/up- take a life in less purple spots or rashes. This loads/2020/01/People-Health-Story.pdf should be made aware to every- https://www.nmaus.org/nma-stories/ than 24 hours and it one. These purple rashes are can be mistaken so better known as septicemia. Blood vessels may be damaged due to Logo compiled by Jessica Carvalho/staff easily for the flu. bacteria entering your blood- ” stream. Mrs. Leslie Maier, “We didn’t know that meningi- CAMPAIGN TO SAVE LIVES Ms. Francesca Testa, an admissions counselor at whose son Chris died tis was vaccine preventable or Central Connecticut State University, shared pictures of herself from a meningi- at age 17 from even that there was even a possi- tis campaign known as the 16 vaccine. Image compiled by Jessica Carvalho/staff meningococcal meningitis bility our 14-year-old could get it,” Features The Eagle Flyer/November 2020, page 3

By Jessinya Severino What is your favorite, and least favorite, Thanksgiving food? Features Editor

“My favorite food on Thanksgiving is definitely “My favorite food is baked mac and cheese, and my “I don't know: mashed potatoes go pretty hard. Turkey, mashed potatoes with gravy and mushrooms on top, least favorite is turkey.” gravy is good. Macaroni smacks, too. Stuffing is my least my least favorite is stuffing, it tastes like lint!” Derek Yates, senior favorite, it's horrible.” Kim Cosgrove, junior at Career Academy Romit Patel, freshman

“My favorite food for Thanksgiving is turkey, and “My favorite is turkey with stuffing and my least “Well, my favorite food is practically everything in Thanks- my least favorite is mac and cheese,” favorite is ham.” giving like, what's not to like? I don't really have a least Kelsey Darocha, senior Andres Arias, sophomore favorite food because I'm a food lover.” Loren Maradiaga, Class of 2019 now sophomore at Southern Connecticut City bus drivers try to stay safe, deliver students, cope during pandemic

By Julissa Moran and Jadalee Martinez with Sasha Franco Staff Writers

With the rapid spread of cases that sky- first day of school) until Monday, Nov. 16, said they disinfected after every ride, trying children make it to school? Many parents, rocketed due to COVID-19 from March 2020 2020 (the last day of in-school learning to keep students safe despite differing rules, including me, leave it in the hands of the to the present, many essential workers were before superintendent Dr. Ruffin moved as did city bus driver Kaleb Johnson. bus company to take all safety measures still forced to work or faced consequences everyone online), not knowing whether they “I’m new to this COVID-19 bus rule, but I for children such as my own to get to of losing their job. have the virus or are a carrier. like the fact we have to put our mask on, where they need to go,” said Beverely One group of those essential workers not “I’ve been really concerned about my even the passengers. Between intercity and Santos, a mother whose son used to ride everyone recognized were bus drivers safety. We don’t have any protection,” said local, bus drivers are different; we have the bus. across the United States. They tried to Dara Mendes, a Waterbury Public Schools multiple rules and local bus drivers have Santos also said she was trying not to manage to stay safe during this pandemic bus driver. less,” said Johnson. “In my opinion I feel worry whether her son will get sick while while risking their lives driving students Mendes said she has been driving a like we should have the same amount of rules riding the bus, or if it is crowded and if social who opted to go in person, such as in school bus for the past 14 years, and and people should follow the expectations distancing takes place while he rides. Waterbury from Tuesday, Sept. 8, 2020 (the explained she was not allowed to refuse equally.” If he gets sick, the issue doesn’t only affect transportation to any child who may not be Many others would agree because it is him; he will also be bringing it home to the wearing a mask. Mendes said bus drivers just the same as simply walking into a store rest of the family in his household. will also be denied pay if the state chooses without a mask. If everyone played their part Likewise, Casey Rivera, another bus to go back into shutdown. by trying to control and limit the virus, it will driver, shared her perspective on the safety “I feel like we have been running the make things a lot easier and even help of people near you. same schedule as before with no protection society go back to normal faster. “Some people don’t think about the for us bus drivers,” Mendes said. Therefore, another prime example of some safety of other people and come on the bus This is not only putting other students of the extents bus drivers go through are without a mask. I have the authority to who may ride the bus at risk, but also the extra routes. The average capacity of refuse their entry on the bus; however, I am families they go home to, and even them- passengers for one bus is 10 people, and in a mother of two kids and have to be able to selves because they are the ones driving the some cases it can go up to 21 people. make it to my other stops on time, so I just bus. However, bus drivers whose limit is at 10 have my own extra masks for them and ask The school bus driving system was a passengers have more stops to make (them) kindly to put it on,” said Rivera, who controversial topic due to safety measures. because of the small amount. Driver Adelen has been a bus company employee for four Junior Chyanne Ballard explains how she Steven shared his thoughts. years. feels about the situation and how she “My bus stops are not that far from each She said she doesn’t believe bus drivers believes people in society should give other; Waterbury is small but I still have to should buy masks with money that comes thanks to the bus drivers in the community. do double the stops because of the amount from their pocket; instead, the bus company GUEST SPEAKER DURING COVID? Ballard is a driver herself, and said she of people I’m allowed to have (is low) dur- should provide extra masks for students who Yes, not only is it possible, but some classes did not ride the school bus because she felt ing this pandemic. Before there were not may not have one so the issue doesn’t enjoyed a guest speaker twice this fall, during these times there is no real way of many passengers but now the number has become serious. believe it or not! Check out our next Eagle practicing social distancing because the bus increased,” said Steven. “This pandemic has been a life and death Flyer issue to learn all the details. Pictured is gets too crowded and other students take Despite the restrictions on passengers, situation for me every day,” said Rivera. professional journalist Mr. Paul Singley, who offered two decades worth of advice to two off their masks. one parent mentioned the necessity of bus classes of Journalism via Google Meet. Yet, bus drivers were the only method of drivers. News Editor Jessica Carvalho contributed to Illustration by M. Lovos/staff transportation for some students, so they “Without our bus drivers, how will our the editing of this story. Commentary The Eagle Flyer/November 2020, page 4 Staff Editorial Share your traditions ’TIS THE SEASON We truly thank you, Whether it’s Day of the Dead (left), Diwali, Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, Chinese New Year, or some- thing special you share with family and friends, our school community holidays abound this time of year. Make the most of your time by taking photographs, writing journals and Deep breathes and a long look around. Amid pandemic just enjoying traditions. We encourage you to chaos and the intense election, November is a perfect research and read more about the above-mentioned opportunity to truly evaluate the positives surrounding you. holidays since not only is knowledge power, but you might have fun learning some new facts and history! Besides the turkey dinner and fall sales, Thanksgiving is a genuine reminder to be grateful for what and who you have by your side. In honor of thankfulness in 2020, The Eagle Flyer suggests readers compile a list of things and people they are grateful for. Of course, who would we be if we asked something and did not do so ourselves? Here is our list of all we are truly grateful for: First of all, without such a trusting, supportive Principal, the Flyer’s staff would not have the opportunity to write, print and share this newspaper. Mr. Johnston, we are grate- ful for your constant assistance and leadership, and for the connection you keep with your staff and students, which contribute to a safe and successful school environment. Second, we want to express our gratitude for the vice principals, teachers and other staff who agree to our vari- ous interviews, photographs and requests. There would be no paper without quotes, and with all of the information Illustrations by M. Lovos/staff and opinions shared with your contributions, Kennedy has become a connected, informative community. Another valu- able part of our community are the custodians, especially Science of gratitude impacts us in positive ways this year, going the extra mile to keep school clean and tidy. By Nirupama C. Nigam, Ph.D Gratitude journal brings empathy, positive outlook We are grateful for the shoveled side walks, the perfectly Chemistry teacher COMMENTARY mowed lawn and the maintenance of our classrooms. These things do not go unnoticed. We would also like to thank the Gratitude, derived from the Latin ‘gratia,’ means gratefulness brain (Moll et al. 2005). A study conducted on individuals food service workers for providing the daily lunch quickly or thankfulness. By conveying and receiving simple ‘thank you’ seeking mental health guidance revealed participants who wrote at dismissal, as not to miss busses, and now ‘grab and go’ messages, we derive the same pleasure we seek everywhere else. letters of gratitude besides their regular counseling sessions, food in the lobby. Overall, Kennedy is a place full of things Gratitude and Happiness felt better and recovered sooner. The other group who were to be grateful for; it is our pleasure to provide a monthly Gratitude in all forms is associated with happiness. Whether asked to journal their negative experiences instead of writing newspaper to such a deserving audience. we say ‘thank you’ to someone or receive the same from others, gratitude letters reported feelings of anxiety and depression. Lastly, but certainly not least, the staff here at The Eagle the feeling it brings is that of satisfaction and encouragement. Gratitude reduces pain Flyer would like to share their appreciation of our adviser The Neuroscientific Research in Gratitude Counting Blessings vs. Burdens (2003), a study conducted Gratitude was significant in ancient philosophies and cultures; on evaluating the effect of gratitude on physical well-being, Dr. Cybart-Persenaire. Her consistent belief in the staff’s in the Roman culture, Cicero mentioned gratitude as the ‘mother’ indicated 16 percent of the patients who kept a gratitude abilities, her helpful monthly ideas and the endless effort of all human feelings. As an area of neuropsychological research, journal reported reduced pain symptoms and were more will- she puts into the paper by helping us edit and manage is a gratitude is a subject of concern from the last two decades (Emmons ing to work out and cooperate with the treatment procedure. A remarkable example of passion for a cause. & McCullough, 2004). deeper dig into the cause found by regulating the level of dopam- Now it’s your turn. Remember, no matter how insignifi- Gratitude and the Brain ine, gratitude fills us with more vitality, thereby reducing cant a couple words may be, by showing your appreciation Studies have demonstrated that at the brain level, moral judg- subjective feelings of pain. to someone else, it could become extremely meaningful. ments involving feelings of gratefulness are evoked in the right Gratitude improves sleep quality Enjoy the holiday season now upon us. Write that thank anterior temporal cortex. In the same study, it was revealed the Studies have shown that receiving and displaying simple you note. Voice your appreciation to military personnel even reason some of us are naturally more grateful than others, is the acts of kindness activates the hypothalamus, and thereby regu- if Veterans Day is over. Hug that family member. To offer a neurochemical differences at the Central Nervous System. People lates all bodily mechanisms controlled by the hypothalamus, final thought, make sure to celebrate Thanksgiving year- who express and feel gratitude have a higher volume of grey mat- out of which sleep is a vital one. Hypothalamic regulation long with love in your heart and happiness in your soul. ter in the right inferior temporal gyrus (Zahn et al., 2014). triggered by gratitude helps us get deeper and healthier sleep “Thankfulness is the quickest path to joy.” ~ Jefferson Bethke When we express gratitude and receive the same, our brain naturally every night. A brain filled with gratitude and kindness releases dopamine and serotonin, the two crucial neurotransmit- is more likely to sleep better and wake up feeling refreshed and “Don’t let the sun go down without saying thank you to ters responsible for our emotions, and they make us feel ‘good.’ energetic every morning (Zahn et al., 2009). someone, and without admitting to yourself that absolutely no one gets this far alone.” ~ Stephen King They enhance our mood immediately, making us feel happy from Gratitude aids in stress regulation the inside. By consciously practicing gratitude daily, we can help McCraty et al. (1998), in one of their studies on gratitude “Reflect upon your present blessings--of which every man these neural pathways to strengthen themselves and ultimately and appreciation, found that participants who felt grateful has many--not on your past misfortunes, of which all men create a permanent grateful and positive nature within ourselves. showed a marked reduction in the level of cortisol, the stress have some.” ~ Charles Dickens A Shot of Dopamine - whether expressing gratitude for what is hormone. They had better cardiac function and were more good in life or showing gratitude to someone who has helped us at resilient to emotional setbacks and negative experiences. The Eagle Flyer work, neural circuitry in our brain (stem) releases dopamine. Significant studies over the years have established the fact The Eagle Flyer is published monthly and Dopamine makes us feel good! And, because it feels good, we that by practicing gratitude, we can handle stress better than distributed free of charge to Kennedy High want more. It triggers positive emotions, we feel optimistic, and it others. By merely acknowledging and appreciating the little School and the Greater Waterbury community. Our mission is to fosters camaraderie. It also drives prosocial behaviors. Ah-ha! Put things in life, we can rewire the brain to deal with the present educate, enlighten and inform our school and community while that under how to enhance performance, because dopamine has circumstances with more awareness and broader perception. developing journalism skills in editorial and business areas. been linked to intrinsic motivation in goal accomplishment, whether Gratitude reduces anxiety and depression The Eagle Flyer is a member of the Columbia Scholastic Press academic, personal or professional. By reducing the stress hormones and managing the auto- Association, the New England Scholastic Press Association and A Swig of Serotonin - when we reflect on or write down the nomic nervous system functions, gratitude significantly the Journalism Education Association. School hours: 7:20 a.m. - 1:50 p.m. positives in life and at work, our brain (anterior cingulate cortex) reduces symptoms of depression and anxiety. At the neuro- Address: 422 Highland Avenue, Waterbury, Conn. 06708 releases serotonin. Serotonin enhances our mood (think anti-de- chemical level, feelings of gratitude are associated with an in- Phone: 203-574-8150 Fax: 203-574-8154 pressant), our willpower and motivation. And yes, serotonin has crease in the neural modulation of the prefrontal cortex, the also been called the ‘happy molecule.’ brain site responsible for managing negative emotions like guilt, Commentary Editor Managing Editor News Editor shame and violence. As a result, people who keep a gratitude Vivian Bunker Danny Ruiz Jessica Carvalho journal or use verbal expressions for the same, are more Fashion/Trend Editor Features Editor Sports Editor empathetic and positive by nature. Destiny Hollister Jessinya Severino Jazmin Estrella Science wants us to live each day as Thanks Giving Day. Thank you for reading until the end. Staff References: Sophia Gaspard, James Rusi, Nathan Meglio, Michael Albino, Emmons, R. A., & McCullough, M. E. (2004). The Psychology of Alyssa Bisram, Noah Crespo, Jake Liquindoli, Emmanuel Gratitude (Series in Affective Science). New York: Oxford University Press. Yankson, Cindy Zheng, Cykoria Bradford, Mya Caraballo, Zahn, R., Garrido,G.,Moll, J.,Grafman, J.(2014). Individual differences Samantha Christensen, Louis Cruz, Stacey Delrosario, Jaikwon in posterior cortical volume correlate with proneness to pride and Francis, Jerryel Guzzman-Ortiz, Branden Halle, Aaliyah gratitude.Social Cognitive and Affective Neuroscience, 9(11), 1676- Hardy, Michael Harper, Gianna Hopkins-Velez, Victoria 1683. Laboy, Yarelis Laguer, Nashawn Minnis,Alyssa Morales, Moll, J., Zahn, R.,Oliviera, R. (2005) The Neural Basis of Human Moral Cognition.Nature reviews Neuroscience, 6(10), 799-809. Soonia Natour, Shana Pinto, Yamirelys Ramos, Gariann Scott, Emmons, R., A., & McCullough, M. E. (2003). Counting blessings Ajsel Sejfulai, Jaida Simms, Jamiah Stevens, Ilesca Torres, Gratitude releases toxic emotions versus burdens: an experimental investigation of gratitude and Roshell Walters, Arianny Gutierrez-Santiago, Logan Addison, subjective well-being in daily life.Journal of Personal Social The limbic system is the part of the brain responsible for all Edwin Camacho, Me’Ryah Caraballo, Jennileyshka Castro, Psychology 84(2), 377-89. emotional experiences. It consists of the thalamus, hypothalamus, Sasha Franco, Melissa Gonzalez, Pavel Guerra, Sebastian Zahn R, Moll J, Paiva M, Garrido G, Krueger F, Huey ED, Grafman J amygdala, hippocampus, and cingulate gyrus. Studies have shown (2009). The neural basis of human social values: evidence from Jimenez-Espinal, Mayra Lovos, Imonie Martinez, Jadalee that hippocampus and amygdala, the two main sites regulating functional MRI.Cereb Cortex 19, 276-283. Martinez, Julissa Moran, Khadija Nawan, Kristian Ngjela, emotions, memory and bodily functioning, get activated with feel- McCraty, R., Atkinson, M., Tomasino, D., Goelitz, J., Mayrovitz, H. Anthony Raghunandan, Alexandra Ruales-Ramirez N., (1999). The impact of an emotional self-management skills course ings of gratitude. Adviser on psychosocial functioning and autonomic recovery to stress in Consistent evidence has established what we call ‘emotions’ Dr. Cybart-Persenaire middle school children.Integrative Physiological and Behavioral or ‘feelings’ are neural activations in the neocortical regions of the Science 34, 246-268. The Eagle Flyer/November 2020, page 5 Quotes for November Compiled by Roshana Tilkuram Poetry Corner To read more Flash Fiction, “(a) series of very short stories” Staff Writer She is my Mother originally created this summer “The real gift of gratitude is that the more grateful you are, the more (of 2020) by writers for present you become.” ~ Robert Holden By Danny Ruiz The New Yorker magazine, visit www.newyorker.com/books/ I am different flash-fiction “Courage is not the absence of fear, but rather the assessment that Astonishingly advantaged something else is more important than fear.” More than her at least ~ Franklin D. Roosevelt

Difficulty was common for her It is not for me Flash Fiction “You never know how strong you are until strong is your only For me food is common choice.” ~ Bob Marley For her it wasn’t The Turkey Every day I show my thanks By AJ Barbieri Recognizant of her sacrifices Staff Writer A short story for November to have them over for Thanksgiving dinner Entirely indebted to her to talk about the good old times and also, it Never stopping in my effort to honor her By Roshana Tilkuram would be a plus to make amends with Thanks to her, I am different It’s always with me. In the woods. In Staff Writer my yard. Even in my dreams. I see them. the turkey. I was at the door when it started. Yes, I hated the idea of them coming over I had just walked into the house after a and making me feel bad about things I He’s always there. Pleading. Pleading long day of working, trying to put food on worked hard for but, it would be the most Holiday foods: for me to pardon him on Thanksgiv- the table for my family. I have never been so grown up thing to do. ing Day. I know I don’t have that tired in my life every waking moment that I They came over and we had dinner. We power. He knows I don’t have that have gone straight to work. all had things we were going through but learn origins power. However, he still wants me to save him from the table. He wants to I never knew what my mother meant when for just this one night, we were able to put By Athalia Adouko live. she said, “you will have to do what you all of that aside and had a nice time as Staff Writer COMMENTARY have to when you have one of your own,” sisters because it’s what Mother would have I do all I can. I lead him deep into the but now I know exactly what she means. wanted. After we had dinner, we all sat down Eggnog! Candy canes! Gingerbread unknown woods. I lead him farther I was 19 years old when my mother died. in the living room and said what we were cookies! and farther into the unknown until I never knew my dad. It wasn’t just me she grateful for. We all love them! But do we know the even I’m lost. At long last, he is safe. left behind: she left my other two sisters I said, “I’m grateful for the good 19 years history behind these delicious treats? He is calm. behind, too. There were three of us: Madi- I got to spend with my mother, and I learned Whether you’re looking forward to enjoy- son who was 21 when she left, and Ellie who to how to become this amazing mother and The big day comes. I know some- ing a minty candy cane or a cold glass of thing is wrong when I see him in a had just turned 16. wife and I learned how to work hard for the eggnog this Christmas season, let’s look spiritual presence on my plate. I I haven’t spoken to my sisters in years things I want.” into the origin behind these festive treats. regret eating that night. because I didn’t want anything to do with That night I was happy, at my best, Candy Canes them. After our mother passed away, the two because I was with the people who matter Every year it seems as if candy canes of them went off on their own and left me the most important to me. I was grateful to are a staple treat to any person’s Christmas behind. After many sleepless nights I wanted have them all in one place at the right time. festivities! An article published by spoonuniversity.com, claims that “candy canes were made first to resemble the letter History repeats itself in fashion trends like faux fur J, for Jesus.” By Destiny Hollister Another theory on the meaning behind Fashion/Trend Editor COMMENTARY the candy cane was that it was made to resemble a shepherd’s cane. That’ll be up “Don’t wait until the fourth Thursday in November, to sit with sories, hair clips, flared jeans, Dr. Martens boots, scrunchies, belts, to you to decide! Legend also has it that a family and friends to give thanks. Make every day a day of and more, according to huffpost.com, a website that posts about Catholic choir master in Cologne, Germany Thanksgiving,” said Charmaine J. Forde, news, politics, life, entertainment, horoscopes, and communities. would hand bent candy sticks for children an author, in her book Over In Away. While speaking about 2019, fashion wasn’t the only big impact to keep them quiet throughout the Christ- November is here, are you ready to adjust to all of the trends? As throughout the month of November! mas church service. the leaves change colors and Fall sets in, be sure that you change In addition to fashion trends, people took it a step further by How about the colors? Well, the tradi- up your inventory and stack up on scarves! Throughout the United adding rhinestone eye makeup as one of the biggest trends, wear- tional colors of red and white are supposed States, everyone is adjusting to different trends and preparing for a ing corduroy, decorating their home’s entryway, and wearing heels to represent Jesus’s blood (red) and his new adventure, whether it’s home-wise, fashion or makeup designs! with socks throughout the United States, according to purity (white). In case you were wondering, Prepare for the adventure as the month of November arrives since business.pinterest.com, a website that posts tips for recipes, fash- the peppermint flavor of the delicious treat there’s lots of new things being released! ion, and home decor. supposedly represents Jesus’s purity, too. Because history repeats itself, we might see some of the trends Now we’re up to modern-day in 2020, a year that took a spin Gingerbread Cookies seen in 2018, which include dark denim, faux fur, leopard print, from what we might’ve expected earlier on, so what can we expect Whether in the shape of a house or in hiking boots, pearls, high-waisted pants, wide jeans, stripes, and to see during November and beyond? the shape of man, we all love it! The origin checkered patterns, sherpa, or even fanny packs, according to Besides the Presidential Election, we can see patchwork outfits, of gingerbread cookies dates back to the bestlifeonline.com, a website that highlights daily life. long fringe dresses, fuzzy cardigans, puff sleeved tops, quilt-pat- 16th century under the ruling of Queen Eliza- In our previous year of 2019, trends were alike from what we’ve terned outfits, and faux fur as seen in previous years, according to beth I. Did you know “the Queen also had seen in 2018, however, some had their own twist to add onto history cosmopolitan.com, a website that posts tips for politics, astrology, a royal gingerbread maker who created and make a fashion impact! beauty, entertainment, and even more aspects of life! gingerbread men to represent foreign digni- 2019 was full of ’70s throwbacks, including silhouettes, silky What are you waiting for? Go out and update your inventory taries and people in her court,” according scarves, western hats and boots, oversized deminwear, pearl acces- before everyone jumps on the fad train! to Jessica Booth’s article published by redbookmag.com Dec. 11, 2018? At the same time, gingerbread houses became popular Why change clocks twice yearly? Thank Ben Franklin in Germany after the famous story of Hansel By Me’Ryah Carabello and Gretel was written by the Grimm COMMENTARY Brothers. Staff Writer So, maybe this time around when you Daylight Saving Time was developed to longer daylight hours and save have a craving for a gingerbread or candy allow better use of the sunlight hours of the energy for the war production. cane you’ll look past the delicious taste and summer. By shifting clocks forward an hour After World War II, individual deeper into the actual meaning of the treat! in March, we move an hour of daylight from states and communities decided Illustration by sugarspunrun.com the morning to the evening. On the first Sun- whether to continue observing day in November, we rewind our clocks to Daylight Saving Time and when return to Standard Time. to do so. This meant some cities But where did the idea of Daylight were an hour behind others even Saving Time originate from? though they were only sepa- Illustration by M. Lovos/staff The idea of daylight saving was first rated by a few miles on a map. conceived by Benjamin Franklin during his To minimize the confusion, Congress summer. Thus, Daylight Saving Time travels as an American delegate in Paris in passed the Uniform Time Act in 1966, which (Summer Time) is usually not helpful in the 1784, and written in an essay, “An Economi- standardized the length of Daylight Saving tropics, and countries near the equator gen- cal Project.” The idea was later proposed to Time for the country. erally do not change their clocks. the British Parliament by Englishman If you live near the equator, day and night Many equatorial cities and countries do William Willett 1907. However, it did not are nearly the same length (12 hours). But not participate in Daylight Saving Time. In become a standard practice in the United elsewhere on Earth, there is much more the United States, there are a few places that States until 1966. Daylight Saving Time was daylight in the summer than in the winter. do not observe Daylight Saving Time, in- originally instituted during World War I and The closer you live to the North or South cluding parts of Arizona, Hawaii, Puerto Rico, World War II in order to take advantage of Pole, the longer the period of daylight in the the U.S. Virgin Islands, and American Samoa. page 6, The Eagle Flyer/November 2020 Church outside, through Zoom? St. John’s Lutheran weathers storm By Jessinya Severino Features Editor Waterbury church members find new ways to worship, stay connected despite pandemic

Church services are outside and through shares his hardest part of the pandemic. connected to the church. husband who has been attending for 25 Zoom now, who would have ever thought? “I think it’s because not everyone can “It was an issue of safety. The avenue years. At St. John’s Lutheran Church in Water- comfortably come to church, I think that’s that was opened to us was Pastor Kotila Pastor Kotila explained what the church bury, Conn. the members and Pastor had to the hardest thing for me as Pastor. We get a would give private communion by appoint- does to keep their members safe. find different ways to stay connected with select number of people but it’s not our nor- ment. That kept us connected to the church,” “I’ve been reaching out to our members the church as the COVID-19 pandemic mal,” said Kotila, who has been a Pastor at he said. during this pandemic more so than any other closed churches for a few months, silenc- St. John’s for two years. Becker helps out and plans activities at time before because I know that people are ing and closing doors to lifelong members. Since not everyone could make it to the church, some which contain surprises! afraid and they don’t want to get the virus,” “(I’ve been) a member of this church all church, Kotila makes sure he reaches out to “We had our Mother’s Day service out- said Kotila. “We are distancing, many people my life, 84 years. The man who built this everyone. side. I had flowers for all the mothers. I like are wearing masks, sanitize. The vulnerable, church, built our house,” said Mr. Bob Beer, “As Pastor, what I would do is continue to surprise people,” he said. “We had the elderly are certainly staying home.” a member of the church and a lawyer. to pray and ask God to bless this congrega- another outside service where I met every- Zoom, private appointments, and Mr. Beer and his wife Mrs. Beer are the tion and bless those who can’t be with us,” one coming in and I gave everyone a roll of recorded sermons are options the church two most known in the church. They spoke said Pastor Kotila. “I especially tried to reach toilet paper because at the stores you gives as a way to follow Centers for Disease about the church and the man who built it. out to those people who are unable to be couldn’t get toilet paper. For Father’s Day I Control and Prevention (CDC) rules and “He was from Germany and he had a heart here by calling them on the phone and send- brought Klondike bars and at the end of the social distancing. Zoom, however, is differ- attack before he came over here to this coun- ing letters to them. I’ve been sending those service handed them out to the fathers.” ent than going in person. try,” said Mrs. Ruby Beer, a former Kennedy out every single week. I send something that The church has always been there for each “While not being able to be there in Algebra teacher, a member of the church for is encouraging to them. Letting them know of their members. Not being able to attend in person I did attend church through Zoom, 46 years, and Mr. Beer’s wife. “He was only that I’m personally praying for them.” person is a hardship for many. which was nice that we were able to do that 40-something when he had a heart attack For a while the church was unable to “The hardest change was not getting up but it just didn’t feel the same,” said and he lived to be in his 90s. And his wife open. Member Mr. Cliff Becker was able to and going to church to get that in-person Lorancaitis. “In person you get to see the lived longer and lived to be 100.” connect with three other churches every sermon and communion. Just not being with same church family that you have every The Beers have lived in Newtown, Conn. Sunday: Christ the King in Newtown at 10 family and friends after 42 years I have been Sunday. So it is hard to not get that same for about 50 years. They spoke about how a.m., Holy Trinity Lutheran Church in attending,” said member Ms. Dawn feeling of not being in church.” they got through quarantine. Terryville at 9 a.m., and his sister-in-law’s Lorancaitis. COVID-19’s restrictions have affected “It really wasn’t a hardship, well, because church in Scottsdale, Arizona. These changes are challenging at first. going back to St. John’s Lutheran Church, of our faith. Since we are retired and we get “Just not being at church...was difficult, Mr. Dave Donofrio told of several changes as the members are used to being so friendly. along very well, it hasn’t been a hardship to then we started going with Zoom for church. they had to make. “I am happy to be back going to church, be home really, and our neighbors have We were connected to three churches. It kept “The biggest change would be the lack of but it will be nice when the restrictions are been so good to us,” said Mrs. Beer. us connected,” said Becker, a 47-year socializing. We could no longer have coffee done so we will be able to have coffee hour “As we left this morning (our neighbors) member of the church. “It was something hour. We no longer shake hands. Attendance and shake hands with the Pastor. And not were cleaning our yard,” said Mr. Beer. different. It’s difficult not having social hour is low. We are encouraged to wear masks. have to walk by people fast with masks. We As the Beers were able to have help from with our friends.” Also initially we had to do services can stop and talk and laugh,” said their kind neighbors, Pastor Joel Kotila Becker and his wife did not fail to stay virtually,” said Donofrio, a church member’s Lorancaitis. Student theatre, cheerleaders lost their “outlet,” “sanctuary” due to virus By Ariel Pierre, Jamiah Stevens Members of extracurricular activities shut down due to COVID-19 miss their second family Staff Writers COMMENTARY Waterbury schools were shut captain Janaya Santos. been cheering for years, it brings said Samantha Valle, Class of 2020 peutically express themselves. down due to COVID-19 Friday, While everyone is thinking me peace--it is my peace actually. I graduate. “Being on stage and Without that space, a lot of March 13, 2020. The school year about sports cancellations like love it,” said Sanai Lee, a junior. being with my second family students are stuck trying to cope. was cut short, sports seasons football and basketball, no one is Cheerleading is an outlet for helped me a lot. It was my source With that and not being able to were canceled alongside extracur- talking about the cheer season and most of the girls. It’s a safe place of happiness.” have any other artistic space, most ricular activities. This made how it affected the cheerleaders. where the team can come together Her story is like many others. feel extremely unheard. students, coaches, directors, and Since there are no sports to cheer and be themselves with no judg- The arts were not a part of the “What an outlet for students more upset and disappointed. How for, the cheer team doesn’t have a ing and be able to have a support conversation in many instances. who’ve been labeled,” said Mrs. did the pandemic affect students’ purpose or a voice. system behind them. Cheer became Artists everywhere were put out Caryn Stellmach, guidance coun- extracurricular or sport? What does “I feel bad for you guys, the a family for team members. of jobs. Even Broadway went dark. selor for seniors, who herself their extracurricular activity mean team, the ones putting in the effort “This team means so much to What was once a beacon of hope, performed in Kennedy as well as to them? Also, why is it important and (who) should be enjoying me. They have become a second passion, artistry, and light for city theatre productions. to them? The Centers for Disease their high school years. This is family. Always there for each other many is now dark. The impact this Many students had to try to Control (CDC) decisions affected something none of us have seen and picking each other up while has on students in the arts is come to terms with not having their students when activities were can- and it just breaks my heart for you having a lot of fun and laughs,” substantial. All the while no one outlet anymore. Whether it was celed and authorities didn’t speak guys,” said cheer coach Ms. said Cocchiola. really gave a second thought to theatre or cheerleading, students about the extracurriculars. They Kaitlyn Cocchiola. Meanwhile, Kennedy’s Student school theatre departments. found it difficult. These extra- were silenced. They were voiceless. Cheer means a lot to everyone Theatre felt the same affects. Since “I feel a little unheard, it makes curriculars provide an artistic sanc- “Since the pandemic canceled on the team and with no cheer it the cancellation of spring musi- me upset,” said senior Thomas tuary for students. Without it, the football and potentially the greatly affects them. It becomes an cals, theatre departments were im- Bishop, a four-year member. some are still left feeling unheard basketball season we don’t have escape from reality to some. Cheer pacted statewide and nationwide. This is a common thought and voiceless; when does it end? anyone to cheer for at the moment isn’t just jumps and stomping; it’s “When we were sent home in among students who do theatre “The Theatre Department and the since we aren’t having events like a commitment they have made to March, I was really upset. It was and the impact on students is still cheerleaders have been put on the pep rally (so) there’s not much for be dedicated members. my last year in the Kennedy Stu- ongoing. For most, being on stage back burner, before and now,” said us to do,” said senior cheer “Cheer means a lot to me. I’ve dent Theatre, and I had a lead role,” is a place where they can thera- Bishop. Some colleges make SAT/ACE optional Homeless problem needs our attention

By Cindy Zheng By Pavel Guerra we don’t question enough is homelessness is drug addiction. Staff Writer what they go through daily. Jacob Dudzik was a college stu- Staff Writer COMMENTARY After reading a story from dent homeless then and in his Amidst a surge of the coronavirus that caused the widespread cancellation of the standardized In society there are many The Hartford Courant it seems mid 30s due to a drug addiction. test in Spring 2020, some U.S. colleges and universities have recently dropped the requirement for groups of people who are three out of four people became “I started living out of an SAT/ACE scores in the admission process. voiceless. It can be anybody. homeless because they had lost abandoned house in Bristol It is estimated that “there are now over 1,000 accredited colleges and universities that don’t One example is people with their job, like Joe Krystolfalski, filled with gang activity,” he require SAT,” according to uo.people.edu, an online university. disabilities like Down syn- who lost his due to an injury said. This includes the nearby UConn branch with “test-optional undergraduate admissions process drome, or those with special “One day my right leg This is one of the things for the next three applications periods,” according to today.uconn.edu, a website from the university. needs. But this story will be planted one way and my body homeless people have to go Other area schools following this include Yale University, Trinity University, Southern University, about homeless people in Con- went the other way, and I through and a subject we have and Post University. necticut, and how they are one twisted and tore everything to focus more on. This story With this requirement off their backs, some seniors feel they could have more chances getting into of those voiceless groups. you could possibly do to your should help you understand the school they desired. As of January 2020 the knee,” he said. what could cause homelessness “I think I’ll have a bigger opportunity to enter the college I want and try my best,” said Mary number of people homeless in This was obviously some- and how the homeless live. This Escamilla, a senior who plans on pursuing higher education. Connecticut had gone down but thing he couldn’t control, and is something we as a state or On the other hand, senior Destiny Morales-Caban, feels that the SAT never really showed a after the coronavirus, many he became homeless because of country have to start looking at student’s true worth. lost their jobs. This may have that. Some are becoming home- more as many homeless don’t “I don’t think it matters that much and the SAT (doesn’t) really tell them much other than the fact caused many in Connecticut to less because of COVID-19. have a voice and are unable to that you’re good at taking a test,” she said. become homeless. One thing Another major thing causing speak up. The Eagle Flyer/November 2020, page 7 Change to virtual learning for all students puts end to winter sports

By Jazmin Estrella be able to run for my last year of high school. With the absence of their final year of high practices and the late night meets followed by Sports Editor Some goals I wanted to set out was just to im- school sports, seniors can only reminisce on the going out with the team,” said Sabovic. prove and get faster and to hype up track for the fruitful previous thee years they enjoyed. Student athletes from the fall season share Zooming into classes and missing the winter underclassmen and for the school to get poten- “Overall I will dearly miss my last year run- their condolences and thoughts on the situation: sports season. tial and hardworking people to join,” said Justin ning and training with my coaches and seeing all “Truly, even though my senior season did Due to the alarming rise in COVID-19 cases Mattaboni, a senior on the track and field team. the people and opponents I would have faced not go the way I always dreamt, I am so grateful in Connecticut, Waterbury superintendent Dr. “I know I’m not alone in thinking it really while attending meets. With all that being said, I was able to have a season. Being a senior dur- Verna Ruffin made the decision for a full shift to sucks to wait years for a senior season just to the cancellation really hit me in my heart just ing these hard times is hard enough as it is, and virtual learning as of Tuesday, Nov. 17, 2020 have it canceled because we go virtual. This would knowing I won’t be able to meet new people,” with everything we were looking forward to not which ultimately means no winter sports. have been a great season too, many of my team said Mattaboni. going to be taking place this year, I’m apprecia- “Based on the rise in coronavirus transmis- mates would have made it to States for swim- “I’m going to miss everything, being in the tive I was able to spend time with my team- sion in the city, and in collaboration with Mayor ming,” said Aldin Sabovic, a senior on the swim court, running after any lost balls, hustling strong mates for the last time,” said Janelle Obuobi- Neil M. O’Leary, the City of Waterbury Depart- team. to secure the win. I love basketball so I’m going Djan, a senior on the volleyball team. ment of Public Health and the Board of Educa- Students from all city schools are feeling the to miss every second of it. The cancellation “It felt really nice to have a season this year tion, I have made the decision to transition ALL impact of this transition. really hit hard for me because I was one of the because even though it wasn’t the same as past students to virtual learning effective tomorrow, “For it being my last year to play basketball team captains this year and it’s not fun to know years, it gave a sense of normality in this storm Tuesday, Nov. 17 through Monday, Jan. 18,” it’s heartbreaking knowing I might not get the I won’t be able to help lead my team this year,” of chaos. This year hasn’t been the greatest so according to www.waterbury.k12.ct.us, a site for season, but I also understand the regulations that said Figueroa. being able to play games against other teams information on Waterbury Public Schools. need to be put in place because of covid. There Despite the turn of events, it is better for was very good for the players,” said Reis The shift was rapid and unanticipated. While definitely were goals to have a great season, not some student athletes to remain optimistic, hope Muccino, a junior on the soccer team. some students took it well, for others it was a with just winning but with team bonding and for the best, and work with what they have. “I didn’t have much of a sports season be- bitter disappointment to find out they’d no longer growing stronger together as a whole. Teams make “I can only hope we will get a chance to do so cause the cheer team couldn’t cheer for football be in school and no longer participate in sports. great families and I want the players to get that in the spring when there is a chance for a return but I was happy for those who got to play and “My initial thought on the season being can- experience from their teammates,” said Iyanna and although I agree the students’ safety should finished their season,” said Brianna Bryant, a celed is heartbreaking. It’s senior year and I won’t Figueroa, a girls’ basketball player at Crosby. come first, you can’t help but miss the Saturday senior on the cheer team. Volleyball seniors wish for more John Wall’s life serves as inspiration, warning car windows and drive stolen cars. Wall financial company who made a short By Alexandra Ruales and Jessinya Severino By Kristian Ngjela even got shot twice, but luckily he sur- video on Wall’s life posted on YouTube Staff Writer and Features Editor Staff Writer vived and he would fight people on his Feb. 10, 2015. basketball team in high school,” accord- Wall chose one of the best college Look at NBA basketball player John ing to Popular Playbook, a social media basketball programs, the University of Acing their last season while serving their thoughts on the COVID-19 spike. Wall’s childhood: he went through tough page that covers NBA coaching style, Kentucky, and was drafted #1 overall to COVID-19 has caused many changes in sports, including volleyball. Volley- times, was a point guard for the Wash- written August 20, 2017 the Washington Wizards in 2010. ball games have been cancelled left and right while the seniors hold on to what ington Wizards, and recently got traded Wall seemed to want revenge on his “Wall’s high school years made him they can during these tough times. to the Houston Rockets. However, enemies for his father. a 5-star recruit and he has one of the “This year was supposed to be my peak. The season isn’t as magical with Wall’s childhood will haunt him. “It seems that Wall had a tough life most viewed high school mix tapes of all of the restrictions. The lower classmen are nonchalant because they have Raleigh, North Carolina was a danger- because of his father and decided to go all time, and was ranked #1 in the ous place. Wall started committing on the wrong path. I don’t understand nation, he decided to take his talents to more years to make up for this failed one, but I’m counting down my final days crimes around his middle and high school why he decided to take the wrong path Kentucky,” said Korzemba. of high school, and it is not exciting,” said Vivian Bunker, a senior and captain. years. Mental issues played a big part of when basketball was his main priority,” Wall had a max contract (a contract Though this season has been different from the past three years for the six his life and he decided to follow in his said Clique Productions, a New Yorker of four years for $100 million dollars seniors (Bunker, Krystal Matos, Sara Way, Janelle Obuobi-Djan, Nataly father’s footsteps after his father passed and YouTuber, Dec. 23, 2019. or more) so fans said he has the worst Topolosci, and Elisa Bablusha), they managed to get accustomed to the changes away from liver cancer. Take this time However, there were differences be- contract in the league because he hasn’t surprisingly well until Nov. 17, 2020 when all schools went virtual. to think about your future life. tween Wall and other people, which played in the league in two years due to “Our seniors have really kind of stepped it up and played it well, they Life for Wall wasn’t easy. made his life even more stressful. an achilles tear, making an estimated adapted very well, though they want to practice more, play more and compete “Wall has a crazy against all odds “Wall suffered a lot of mental issues. $41 million a year, more money than story; he only got to visit his father He took his trauma differently than Lebron James (small forward for the more,” said coach Mr. Stango, a physical education teacher. while his father was in prison, and since other people because of his background,” Los Angeles Lakers), “Our seniors make up half of the team,” said Evi Duro, a junior who plays his father passed away when Wall was said Sami Sheshi, a Waterbury resident. “In the summer of 2017, Wall de- for the Eagles. “Their leadership skills and experience really helped the team young, he kept his father’s Randy Moss Wall is said to have controlled his cided to sign a contract for four years out.” jersey, which he still has to this day, he anger because of the basketball he once worth $171 million, by 2022-23 he will With COIVD-19 still spreading in Connecticut, the Eagles adapted well and uses it as a reminder to his father,” said picked up and never let go. be making $47 million, having that thought their season was almost cut short early, but now it is over. Mike Korzemba, a Chicago resident and “People say to Wall, look at your amount of money is insane considering “At one point it really did look like volleyball was going to get cancelled YouTuber who made a video on Wall’s face, look at your hair, and he decided that he hasn’t played two seasons in with football. I honestly didn’t think (the season) was going to happen, I really childhood April 4, 2017. to take those things personal by play- the NBA due to a torn achilles from Crimes committed by Wall were re- ing basketball and ignoring other people walking around his house,” said didn’t,” said Stango. “What saved the season mostly was the rule where you petitive for him. because he fell in love with the game of ClutchPoints, a social media page that have to play with your mask on.” “Wall and his friends would break basketball,” said American Express, a covers the NBA, as of June 25, 2020. When the season was ongoing, the Eagles were undefeated with their 9-0 record, led by senior captains Bunker and Matos. Bunker has been a varsity starter since her sophomore year as a middle hitter and Matos started as the opposite setter her sophomore year on varsity as well. The two captains Jan Mysak joins Canadians for 2021 season helped the Eagles win their first Naugatuck Valley League (NVL) title in 2018 By Branden Halle just 22 games. their sophomore season. The captains reflected on their season so far compared Staff Writer “I’m very happy that it’s over for me and that it’s to the last three seasons. Montreal, a club with a huge history. I can’t wait to go there “It doesn’t even feel like we are almost at the end of the season, it feels like The Montreal Canadians hockey team plans for the 2020- and show what I can do,” Mysak said regarding his draft. Mysak visited Montreal before with the help of Petr it’s just starting,” said Matos. “In the past years we had much stronger emo- 2021 season. Here is a brief lesson on the history of hockey in Montreal, Svoboda, who was the youngest Canadians defenseman to tions when facing other teams, now it’s like we just know what the result will Canada and Montreal Canadians: it started when managed ever make the jump to the NHL in the 1980s, having done so be for every game.” senior hockey first arrived in Montreal thanks to McGill at 18 years old in 1984. Svoboda was a family friend of Mysak’s Even the coach acknowledged these two captains’ efforts. University students, who started playing hockey at the Victoria father and he played on the same Czech youth team as Mysak. “They’ve (Vivian and Krystal) done a great job of keeping everyone focused Skating Rink in 1875. The club had written a set of rules for “The first thing that stands out with Jan is how profes- and upbeat through this season, their positivity has been uplifting the team teams to obey by 1880, and they helped create the Amateur sional he was when we first got him. He came over with an through these tough times, and I’m very appreciative of them,” said Stango. Hockey Association of Canada (AHAC) in 1886, which fea- amazing focus and was diligent in not only his on-ice prepara- Since the season started, the Eagles received a schedule with only 12 games tured four Montréal teams and one Ottawa team; a Quebec tion but off-ice as well, which is impressive. He was trying to find out exactly what the coaches wanted from him, espe- due to the pandemic, when in the past they played a total of 20 games. City team would join the league in 1892. The Montreal Hockey Club, won the first Stanley Cup in 1893. cially away from the puck,” Bulldogs president and general Although the Eagles played a maximum of 12 games, their season became even The Montreal Hockey Club won again in 1894 and 1895, manager, Steve Staios, said to writer Marc Dumont. shorter due to games cancelling because of the spikes in COVID-19. The Montreal Victorias won in 1895, 1896, 1897, and 1898. Mysak joined the Bulldogs at age 17 in January 2020. “We all wish we had more games and a longer season but for our safety we The team was founded in 1909 in Montreal by John Mysak wanted to learn fast. When he was playing with the have to be comprehensive,” said Matos. “There’s nothing we can do about it so Ambrose O’Brien, who named Jean-Baptise ‘Jack’ Laviolette Bulldogs he had 15 goals and 10 assists in just 22 games, we just see it as a way to prevent getting sick.” as the coach and general manager. In one month, Laviolette establishing himself as not just an offensive threat, but an These seniors had wished for a longer, normal volleyball season, or at least recruited 15 players, and they played their first game as a incredibly talented player impacting the game in every zone. for their cancelled games to be rescheduled. Canadian Hockey Association member Jan. 4, 1910. “His game sense, his hockey IQ, how well-rounded of a player he is at this age is very exciting. And that goes along “I feel frustrated as my already short season is only getting shorter. Hope- Over the years they have raked up 24 Stanley Cup Cham- pionships: 23 in the NHL and one before the NHL was founded. with an elite skill set,” said Staios. “He’s got great, deceptive fully we will be able to reschedule the cancelled games, so many important The team has also been called the ‘New York Yankees’ of speed. Has a terrific release. And if you ask Jan why were you experiences are getting removed, I don’t want volleyball to be one of them,” said hockey. The team is still around and doing well, being able to so interested in coming to Hamilton, he said he wanted to Bunker. get into the 2020 playoffs despite the virus but they didn’t learn how to play in the smaller areas.” “It’s very aggravating, the whole team gets very excited to play and then our get far, getting knocked out by the Philadelphia Flyers. Thanks to a successful period when the franchise was games get cancelled at the last minute,” said Obuobi-Djan, a senior middle hitter. A potential asset was drafted Oct. 7, 2020 when the partnered with Montreal in the AHL and helped to develop The team is all very close. Many of them were playing or were present Montreal Canadiens drafted Jan Mysak, an 18-year-old from current stars Brendan Gallagher and Carey Price, Mysak goes when they won the 2018 NVL championship. Litvínov, Czech Republic. Mysak was selected 48th overall to an organization well acquainted with the Bulldogs. Since Montreal has also packed talented cabinets and added Mysak “It’s difficult not being able to play in a longer season when we had set the by the Canadiens, playing junior hockey for the Hamilton Bulldogs in Hamilton, Ontario. Mysak faced obstacles: he had to a pool of young talent that includes former OHL cham- goal to make it far in the NVL tournament this year,” said Way, a senior outside to move from his family, adopt a new language and a new pion Nick Suzuki and first-round picks Jesperi Kotkaniemi hitter. culture, and even try new foods. Mysak faced his challenges and Ryan Poehling, there will certainly be an opportunity for “If we had a real NVL tournament this year then I believe we would’ve been by working on his hockey skills to be a better player. the Bulldogs star to learn and excel with talent around him. one of the top four teams competing for the championship,” said Stango. “I “When I played against Canada in the World Juniors, they Montreal Canadiens Assistant General Manager Trevor think we would’ve been one of the small list of teams that competed for the beat us 7-2,” said Mysak to Marc Dumont, a writer for Timmins was glowing in his praise of Mysak: title.” canadiens.com. “I saw the players playing in the OHL, WHL “We’re excited to get Jan Mysak. We wanted to add some The past few years the team has been having great seasons, and 2020 was and QMJHL, and I thought it would be a good step for me speed and skill, and he addresses that need,” Timmins said Oct. 7. “This is a player who played at the Under-20 World one of their best as they have gone undefeated. because my dream is to play in the NHL. It was a good step and a good decision.” Juniors for the Czech Republic. He played mostly on the wing “If we were to have NVLs this year I think the team would have played With the Bulldogs, Mysak hit the ground running, scoring there. A player of his age playing at the World Juniors and amazing, everyone has improved so much,” said Matos. “We would’ve prob- his first goal in just his second game and stunning Hamilton doing what he did is a pretty good indicator of a strong pros- ably gone to finals, and who knows, maybe win the title again.” fans with a pair of hat-tricks against Niagara and Sault St pect that has a good chance to play at the NHL level some Marie just 14 days apart. 25 points were posted by Mysak in day. We like what he brings: outstanding work ethic, energy.” Sports The Eagle Flyer/November 2020, page 8 Preserving 50 + years of memories despite cancellation By Jessica Carvalho News Editor 2020 Touchdown… Kennedy scores! varsity football But not this year. seniors Kennedy has always played in late November against their big- #10 - captain gest rival, Crosby High School. No Zechariah Rountree one knew things were subject to (bottom photo) change in 2020. For the first time in 55 years, there will be no annual #1- Tre’Sean Graves Thanksgiving game. (second photo from top) The Connecticut Interscholas- tic Athletic Conference (better #7 - Terence Mallete known as the CIAC) cancelled full (third photo from top) contact high school football Thursday, September 3, 2020, #21 - Taeven Moshier leaving the football community (top photo) discouraged and upset. Not only are the players left in REMEMBER distress (take the seniors, for WHEN sophomore at Southern Connecti- example) but families, friends, The 2019 cut State University. coaches, teachers, and even fans game day Blagmon said football was an are lamenting as watching players program cover incredible way to release any (above) play from the stands and sidelines featured aggression that was built up; many was enjoyable. photographs people can attest to this. Football “High school football’s cancel- from previous unites people with the love that lation is disappointing not just for years. The generates around it, just like any Team Commit- the players and the coaches but ment picture other sport or hobby. for their families, friends and fans (left) is a “Football allowed me to become of the game,” said Mr. David picture created outgoing and pushed me to do Rossi, Kennedy athletic director. by Coach better in school in order to play. Sarlo’s son to “This tradition has never been be featured on My biggest inspiration was my stopped, it’s just something we Kennedy mother; she is my biggest sup- have to deal with but hopefully football’s porter and she came to each and we’ll get back to it next year.” Instagram every one of my games to cheer account. History teacher and Kennedy me on,” said Blagmon. football coach, Mr. Christopher To wrap things up, Coach Sarlo Sarlo, has coached for 16 years and shared a moment in his career as has never experienced a season the dedicated seniors who were a “Football means a lot. My dad coach that he will never forget! like this before. part of the team were unable to be inspires me to get on the football “When I took over as head “I give the kids a lot of credit honored on senior night despite field. I would watch football with coach in 2005, Kennedy had not because we’re still practicing with having immense love and respect him when I was younger. Then, I won a game in four years. Kennedy very little reward in sight,” said for the game. Even though they started playing and working at it,” was 0-43 and then Kennedy beat Sarlo. “This is where I feel bad for weren’t recognized on senior said Rountree. Crosby the day after Thanksgiv- the seniors because their last night, The Eagle Flyer will do so Rountree also shared that the ing,” said Sarlo. “This game was Thanksgiving game was last year, in this article. Those four seniors Thanksgiving game has a special the first one I won as head coach. who would have thought? It are: #10 - captain Zechariah meaning and dedication. There was snow on the ground and stinks. This was just beyond our Rountree; #1 - Tre’Sean Graves; “The game means so much to it was cold out, the athletes control.” #7 - Terence Mallete; and #21 - the team. I wasn’t playing then but grabbed and poured a bucket of The annual Thanksgiving game Taeven Moshier. the team has a tradition of dedicat- water all over me and at that point isn’t the only thing that has been Captain Rountree shared his ing the game to an old football I didn’t care. It was a great feel- cancelled this year, other special stance on the cancellation. coach of Kennedy who passed ing.” football events have been, too. “My first reaction when I heard away. I decided to keep on carry- “The two weeks that lead up to the news was shocked. I didn’t ing the tradition with me,” said the final game were always memo- know how to take it, I was lost,” Rountree. COIN TOSS rable to the team,” said Sarlo. said Rountree. “The team had just Fellow 2019 graduate and former Last year's “We’re missing out on our annual received their pads 10 minutes football player, Marquise Blagmon captains head pancake breakfast fundraiser before the news broke out. I was holds football close to his heart out to meet Crosby's (which is a big loss financially), still happy we had the opportunity and said he understands the captains for our pre-game dinner where we to practice.” players’ disappointments. the coin toss would all eat as a team, and senior Rountree has played football all “My reaction to the cancellation before the night where we would honor the throughout high school and was would be very upset because I 2019 Thanks- giving game at players and their families.” looking forward to playing during wouldn’t be able to give the sport Municipal Unlike other fall sports (who his senior year. Football is a great I love my very best the last year I Stadium. were able to play with restrictions), passion of his. was able to play,” said Blagmon, a

MEMORIES (far right photo) #7 Brian Overton (left) and #21 Devon Petty (right) with Coach Sarlo during the Thanksgiving 2009 game vs. Crosby at Municipal Stadium in Waterbury. (near right photo) The team celebrates their win over Crosby at Municipal Stadium in 2019.

Special thanks to Mr. Sarlo, his team and staff for all the photographs and images provided.