Bringing You the Bear Facts The Clarion Holiday/Winter Issue The Student Newspaper of East Brunswick High School Vol. 54, No. 4 Walking In A Caroling Wonderland by Annaika Taneja Every year, on the last day Christmas carols in groups to during gym class last year, stating, before winter break, the every person it is ordered for. “As I was leaving gym class, choirs of EBHS put on their Choir teacher Mr. Good, my friends in choir surprised best Christmas gear and sing who came to EBHS in 2017, me with a carol. As they were favorite holiday tunes like shares that this tradition is singing to me, a circle of people “Deck the Halls”, “Frosty the “great because not only is it a came to listen and everyone Snowman”, “Dreidel, Dreidel”, fundraiser for chorus, it’s also enjoyed it. I think you should and others. A favorite that has a great way to spread some definitely spend your money recently been added is Mariah holiday cheer.” After coming as this is something that brings Carey’s 1996 hit, “All I Want to EBHS, Mr. Good has joy not only for yourself but for For Christmas Is You”, due continued the traditions more others as well. I know junior to popular demand. These than happily, and admits that year for me is very stressful Christmas carols are sold for $2 East Brunswick is the only and this is definitely a stress- each, where any student or staff school he knows that has these member can choose one song to specific holiday traditions. be sung for their friend in class. Junior Lauren Choi This is something that Kaitlyn Liu From periods 1-4, students contentedly describes her brings joy not only Chorus students rehearsing carols from all periods of choir deliver experience receiving a carol EBHS Choir also performs at school day right before winter for yourself, but for the East Brunswick Barnes and break. During this time, both others as well! Noble in early December each Concert Choir and Chamber year. On this day, both Concert Orchestra come together in the - Junior Lauren Choi Choir and Bella Voce sing middle of B-Hall to sing and play holiday tunes in the center of Hallelujah together. Students the Barnes and Noble, simply from all classes come outside to attract shoppers and spread to watch this spectacle. Former reliever during the holidays.” the holiday spirit. Last year, to alumni also like to come back to Not all caroling is meant as a promote the sale of Christmas East Brunswick High School to fundraiser, however. Each year carols, Concert Choir created participate in this special event Concert Choir, an audition- their own video advertisement. too. As the bell rings on the only ensemble, goes around to This year, Mr. Good hopes last day of school before winter the elementary schools to sing to make the event even bigger break, the choirs have sung holiday carols to all elementary and perhaps for a longer their hearts out, and holiday students and teachers. This period of time during the day. spirit will be a little more visible Kaitlyn Liu year, Concert Choir hopes to go The finale of the caroling, among all East Brunswick Mr. Good’s period 7/8 Chorus class on December 20th. Moreover, however, is at the end of the High School students! Give Back This Holiday Season by Devin Hecht It’s that time of year again! The School’s English department school nurses and collects the holidays are almost upon us, to aid families throughout the names of destitute students, and many students are probably district. Every year the toy drive and then asks clubs and wrapping presents, filled with aids over 60 underprivileged organizations in the High School festive cheer. However, the families, and “the event has to sponsor a child. Students holidays can also be a reminder been in existence for more than raise money, then go shopping that this is a time for giving, 10 years,” according to Ms. for the family. Throughout and for generosity. So, East Rocha, an English teacher at its duration, the toy drive has Brunswick High School has EBHS. In any case, Ms. Rocha supported over 600 families, initiated charity events to allow isn’t the only one in the English and the program is not showing everyone to merrily celebrate the department who contributes. any signs of slowing down. Ms. NJ.com holidays. A toy drive has been Ms. Domond of the English Rocha’s goal is to raise even The New Jersey Veteran’s Memorial Home in Menlo Park created by East Brunswick High department reaches out to more money this year than last, but she admitted that “last to the New Jersey Veteran’s year’s Powderpuff shirt is worn year’s classes set the bar pretty Memorial Home at Menlo to the game. All proceeds from high.” Hopefully this year East Park. The people under their this event will be donated to Brunswick can come together care are in need of clothing Relay For Life: an organization to give back to the community. that East Brunswick High that helps to fund cancer However, the English School will dutifully provide. research. Powerpuff succeeds department’s toy drive is not the Another program that East in bringing many different only charity that East Brunswick Brunswick High School is people from the community High School is participating in. participating in is the annual together, and school spirit is There was a clothing drive that Powderpuff game. Many prevalent throughout the night. took place until November students have probably heard The bonfire gives students a 27th that aided many people of the game and looking chance to bond with their peers in East Brunswick, including forward to it, and the event is outside of class. All the while, veterans. The New Jersey very beneficial to charity. The money is being donated to an Veteran’s Memorial Home Powderpuff game supports the extremely important cause. is a “modern skilled care girl’s football team and male Powderpuff is a truly remarkable nursing home providing 24/7 cheerleaders, and there is a event for East Brunswick. quality healthcare,” according bonfire following the game. The charity events that to the organization’s website. Tickets are only 6 dollars. Even East Brunswick Public Students and members of the Hannah Junn better, the price is reduced to School is participating in Mrs. Domond and Mrs. Rocha enjoy participating in the English community donated men’s 5 dollars with the donation of will make the holidays a department’s annual charity toy drive shirts and women’s socks a can of food, and free if this magical time for everyone. Page 2 EIC & Winter Fun! Holiday Cards: To Send or Not to Send? The Clarion Eva (For): Staff 2019-2020 Editor-in-Chief Amasha Jayaratne It was a random Tuesday in December when I suddenly realized that I hadn’t heard from my Chiropractor in a while. I started Editor-in-Chief Eva Vesely to worry, wondering if he was ok and how his family was Executive Assistant Editor Serena Huang doing. A week passed and my anxiety only continued to grow. Executive Assistant Editor Caroline Serpico What if he was abducted? Even worse, what if he quit his job and became a professional drummer? The uncertainty was Executive Assistant Editor Mason Smoller overwhelming. Entertainment Editor Clara Lee Luckily, a week before Hannukah, I received his family’s Entertainment Editor Julia Maling holiday card in the mail. There he was, sitting in front of Features Editor a crackling fireplace, hugging his wife and two children. I Ryan Lin smiled at the picture of their border collie wearing a Santa Features Editor Shreya Rajeswaran hat, my worries alleviated. Same old Roofus! Opinions Editor Srinidhi Ayalasomayajula Thanks to holiday cards, you never have to stress about Opinions Editor Carley Doktorski where your acquaintances may be at any point in time. Holiday cards are people’s way of letting you know that News Editor Rothela Samadi everything is going to be ok. “Happy Holidays” indeed, News Editor John Wang Dr. Campbell! Sports Editor Rohit Narla Visual Editor Hannah Junn Amasha (Against): Visual Editor Kaitlyn Liu Advisor Mrs. Alyson Eliades I love the holiday season! The lights strung up around town, Advisor Mr. Ryan Hynes people putting friendly neighborhood snowmen in their yards, the simple pleasures of hot chocolate and sugar cookies on a cold day-- it’s what I look forward to each year.

But holiday cards-- those high sheen, five-by-seven, professionally captured photos-- I do not love. And as an enthusiast of all things holiday, my dislike comes with good reason. Number one: you get holiday cards from people you barely even know. People who do not so much as bother to call or text all year long feel the need to reach out during the holidays, so they can remind you that they do in fact exist, Holiday Crossword and contrary to what you would think given their severe lack of communication, they care!!! Number two: holiday cards are an excuse to show everyone how well you’re doing. We get it, the kids are cute. Number three: the whole idea is creepy. People just have a picture of you and your family, lying around in their house. Perhaps even hung up on their fridge via magnet. And chances are, it will linger there far beyond the holiday season... Crossword

I love everything about the holiday season. But holiday cards, that’s going to be a no from me.

DOWN: 1. This secular holiday originated in the UK and is celebrated the day after Christmas 3. Each side of this wooden toy represents different rules for a holiday gambling game 5. This holiday drink is sometimes called “egg milk punch”

ACROSS: 1. This Canadian-Italian singer earned first place on the Billboard 200 list for his album, Christmas 2. This week-long holiday celebrates African heritage and involves the ritual lighting of the Kinara 4. On the second day of Christmas, my true love gave me to two ______6. This classic holiday grouch was turned into a cartoon character voiced by Benedict Cumberbatch 7. “Buddy the elf, what’s your favorite ______?” Page 3 Humans & More Winter Fun! HUMANS OF EB Staff 2019-2020 “I enjoy spending my holidays Right now I’m working on with my friends and family, as producing a beat pack that “ well as my dog. Winter is a great “ I’m sending out to several rap time for me, as I get to see my artists across the country. It’s friends that are coming home an exciting project and I’m from college, as well as distant looking forwarding to getting family that I don’t see often. placement in the future. I think We talk, play games together, the winter is good time for my and exchange gifts. I also like own introspection. I like the cold spending time alone, listening to weather, but I like how it forces me Nathaniel Starr, music or playing video games.” Jacob Stern, to stay inside sometimes and grind EBHS Sophomore EBHS Senior out whatever I need to work on.

My favorite about Hannukah Something I’m most proud is geting to celebrate with of this year, is my daughter. “ my family and lighting the “ My daughter has overcome so menorah. [Some of my favorite many obstacles in her life this traditions,] during Hannukah year, and been able to obtain a are playing dreidel, eating latkes varsity letter in cross country. and brisket, having our family She has a form of cerebral palsy over, and lighting the candles. and has been through a lot of People once tried to destroy our therapy in her life, and now people and our religion, but they she’s doing well in school...I’m Sami Ginsberg, couldn’t and we prevailed - so we Officer Dave Smith, looking forward to health and EBHS Senior celebrate that during Hanukah. EBHS Staff happiness for everyone in 2020.

HeyOur EBHS! Reason for the Season With the holidays just around the corner, the Assistant Editors-in-Chief of the Clarion want to personally wish everyone at EBHS a happy holiday and healthy new year. We hope you enjoy your time getting to celebrate traditions with your friends, family, and pets this Winter break. With that being said, here’s a look at how we plan to celebrate, and what we’re are looking forward to the most:

“Three things: hot cocoa, holiday movies, and “The holidays are a very special time of year “When Chanukah is during the holiday season presents. Nothing too special, but I appreciate for my family and I. While the season tends to changes every year because it is based of the every moment we get during the holiday break. have a hectic nature leading up to the holiday, 13-month Jewish calendar. That being said, As the temperature drops below 30 and we get just getting to spend the last and first weeks of when it actually falls around Christmas, you in the holiday spirit, I find myself boiling hot the year with my friends and family makes any really feel the holiday spirit. On Chanukah, milk and pouring in hot chocolate mix. Plop a lost time worth it. For my family, the holiday we light the menorah every night after having couple marshmallows in if you’re feeling fancy, season begins with a traitional gift from my spent the day either with family or friends and you got yourself a delicious drink to stay Grandma; though my cousins and I are grown, enjoying the holiday season. But on Chanukah- warm. We also put on a holiday movie (Home she stills wraps up chocolate advent calendars Christmas, we wake up in our pajamas and Alone being one of my favorites) and enjoy our and gives them to us on Thanksgiving. We meet family-friends for homemade waffles family time together, grateful we have time off unwrap them knowing full well what we’re with ice cream and watch the NBA Christmas from school and work. And as Christmas Day getting, but the same joy of Christmas excites games. Then comes the shocking part… we go rolls around, I find myself perusing Amazon us everytime we see the familiar tradition. On out for sushi instead of chinese food! Either for the best presents for friends and family, Christmas day, my mom’s side of the family way, nothing is more special than my family choosing gifts for Secret Santa and holiday - about 20 adults and 4 kids - pile into my tradition as to how we spend out Christmas… parties. The holiday season, spent in comfy Grandma’s small apartment to celebrate. As whether it is during Chanukah or not.” clothing and listening to Christmas classics, she’s gotten older, it’s become difficult for -Mason Smoller is truly the most wonderful time of the year.” her to travel anywhere. So, while it’s pretty -Serena Huang cramped way to spend Christmas, it literally and figuratively brings us all together for the holiday that we look forward to so much.” -Caroline Serpico Page 4 Column & Entertainment Ask the Advisors Q: How to get a good secret Santa gift when you Q: What do I do if I don’t get into my top don’t know the person? school? Hynes: Think about what anyone might accept from Hynes: It’s all about planning ahead of time. Part someone they don’t know -- gift cards! I like to give of that is making sure your “safety schools” are Amazon gift cards if I don’t have a specific one to go perfectly acceptable too. Aim high, but also have with. It’s not personal at all, but they let the receiver options so that if things don’t work out with your top get what they want at a place that gives them options! school, it’s not so bad. If you want to personalize it, write their name in script Cry a bit if you need to, or vent it out to on the card -- it’s fancy and if they notice, they may Eliades:​ a trusted friend or mentor. Give yourself a few days be superficially impressed with your penmanship efforts! to be bummed out about it, but then move on. Look at I always try to do a little snooping around Eliades: some of the programs, activities, or opportunities at first-- ask their friends what they like or have a casual the other schools you applied to, and get excited for chat with them and see if you can pick up any hobbies those new experiences you wouldn’t otherwise have had or interests to spark a good secret santa idea. When if you had gone to a different school. in doubt, I find that people always love a giftcard to Also, as my mom told me, you are never stuck anywhere. Dunkin or Starbucks in a cute coffee mug. It looks like If you still feel like that top school is where you a sweet gift, and even if they don’t enjoy coffee, it’s are meant to be, set up a plan to apply again and something they will use. transfer. Use it as motivation to work really hard Q: How to deal with senioritis while you’re at another school so that you can improve your application for the next semester or next year. once college apps are in? Hynes: Everyone has to cope Q: How to plan a good holiday party? with senioritis in their own way. It’s a Hynes: Find friends who are having one of their own, plan to real thing. So I suggest a hobby to bide attend, and enjoy with zero stress -- the season is crazy enough! your time -- learn crochet, figure out a Eliades: Party planning is something I am SUPER passionate about. Rubik’s cube without directions, find a big Here is a very short version- book and read it for sport (just to see how Choose a theme and level of formality (are you planning a casual ugly far you can get...consider it practice for sweater party for your co-workers, or an elegant winter wonderland all the mind-numbing tomes you’ll have to cocktail party for your close friends?) read in college), etc. Plan out a menu that fits your theme, and choose recipes that can be Eliades: Work/Life balance is important-- prepared ahead of time. Try to have items that are out right away, but it’s no excuse to stop everything just and that can be left out for a large duration of the party so that because your college apps are in. From you can spend less time hosting and more time enjoying the company. experience, some schools ask for your Decide on the atmosphere you want to create (decorations, music, quarter 2 or 3 grades. If you MUST fall scented candles, etc) and layout your venue (your home, a small room into senioritis, try to get as much work at a restaurant, etc) using the decorations you are planning on done during study halls as you can. Many using, and the food you are planning to have out. senior teachers allow for homework to be Finally, make sure that there is enough seating for everyone, and started in class- so use that time wisely. enough parking (if that applies)! They are little things that people That way, at least you have something. remember if they don’t go well. The Old Town Road to by Aaron Zhu Success At the 53rd Country Music made it go viral. By mid-April, and Luis Fonsi and Daddy the music industry, wherein embrace the refreshing nuance Association Awards on the blazing popularity of the Yankee’s “Despacito (Remix)” production ability is becoming that experimentation can bring. November 13, where the motif song had legitimized; it had featuring Justin Bieber. Lil independent of preexistent Indeed, there is a certain solace appears to be dark suits and reached number one on the Nas X also won the Country status. Online, it has rendered and hope that creative artists unassuming dresses, Lil Nas Billboard Hot 100, where Music Association Award for the characterization of the find in knowing that, at the X unapologetically chooses to high-status artists like Billie Musical Event of the Year for desperate “SoundCloud core, the two most contrasting transcend decorum. From head Eilish and Camila Cabello were “Old Town Road (Remix)” rapper” obsolete, in the genres of music could somehow to toe, he is wrapped in shiny realization that people can now mesh to dominate the charts. black leather: his shirt lined spontaneously support obscure Lil Nas X’s success does across his chest with lustrous, names and, with the assistance of not stop at “Old Town Road.” thin fringe and his boots shinily widespread streaming services, The music video for his new dotted with crystalline studs. bring them to quick fame. single, “Panini,” has garnered In appearance and behavior, A year ago, nobody had more than 165 million views. he is outstanding, irreverent, asked for a country-rap medley. However, on September 27, and eccentric—which also Now a facet of our cultural he tweeted that he will be describes his contribution conscience, we can’t get enough taking a break from music. He to this year’s music scene. of its essence. “I often have to is working off of what he has Lil Nas X’s career story is, keep my electronic tastes to made from it, taking to social for now, short: barely a year has myself because it’s so foreign media to tighten the already passed since he first released to my friends who mostly listen cordial bonds he has made “Old Town Road” in December to hip-hop. Hybrid songs like with his followers. “He’s just of 2018. Then, having paired an Old Town Road encourage loose, not stiff online. Nobody online hip-hop beat with lyrics camaraderie between those with wants to beef with him,” that bear a duality that is both seemingly incompatible tastes junior Ethan Chu remarks. hip-hop and western—“Cowboy E! News in music,’’ says junior Andrew Employing memes of less-than- hat from Gucci”, for instance— Lil Nas X did not stick to the status quo at the CMA Awards. Chen, who’s a music producer ideal quality and making quips the artist thought little of his in his free time. The genre at about his own homosexuality, concoction, other than that it large is a relatively new concept, both of which are often cryptic was fiercely catchy. But, in a unsuccessful in ever shaking Lil featuring Billy Ray Cyrus. at least within the realm of and typed uncapitalized, the now commonplace example Nas X off his impressive reign. The sensation Lil Nas X notability. However, Lil Nas’ musician adopts a frankness of Internet volatility, the piece The hit stayed on top of the has created seems like another explosion quickly made his that is profoundly read but journeyed from SoundCloud to Hot 100 for 19 weeks, beating iteration of the one-hit wonder success an invitation to artists, unspokenly admired — a TikTok, where users irresistibly the previous record of 16 weeks prototype in popular music. famous and undiscovered, trait that lends merit to how mused over its enormous held by Mariah Carey and Boyz But his success is evidence to reject strict adherence to uniquely genuine Lil Nas X is video-making potential and II Men’s “One Sweet Day” of a rapidly expanding rift in musical purism, and to instead compared to the typical artist. Page 5 News, Opinions, Entertainment & Sports To Tech or Not to Tech... ‘Tis the Season for Secret Santas? by Yejun Kwon by Nikhita Iyengar As the holiday gifting spirit begins to their standard streaming plan. In order It’s the start of the most wonderful you the most perfect thing. Although creep in, many Americans have started to further compete with Netflix, there’s time of the year and holiday traditions there is no way of finding out for sure, thinking about potential gifts for their a $12.99 a month premium subscription are back in full swing for the season. it is always fun using your imagination for access to both Hulu and ESPN+ For many, this means putting a twist and knowing it will remain a mystery! along with Disney+ just in case you have on gift giving with the age-old “Secret 2. Mo Money, Mo Problems: a friend or family member who really Santa.” In this classic holiday tradition, The idea of the tradition is that it is wants to watch Game of Thrones or is members of a group draw out a random supposed to be simple and original. a sports fanatic. The other gift that will name and are assigned to become No one is expecting the Secret Santa be popular this season is the AirPods Pro. Despite a retail price of $249.99, Dennis Zhang, a senior, believes that “the new noise-cancelling feature and customizability” of the AirPods Pro will “appeal to many people.’’ However, Disney Disney+ offers iconic films and originals loved ones. Although everyone wants to think of themselves as master gift-givers, it doesn’t hurt to take a peek at what gifts are going to be the most popular. Renjer.com To start off, a Disney+ subscription is Secret Santa involves anonymous gift-giving a great gift (despite its lack of tangibility) that person’s “Santa.” Using a wish to buy expensive gifts for the recipient. for anyone who enjoys Marvel and list given to them by the giftee, the The gift just has to be special and Star Wars, with its critically acclaimed Secret Santa has to choose the perfect genuine. “I love the fact that with just The Mandalorian on the platform. gift for their person. It’s a wonderful five to ten dollars, I have the ability to Yannis Loukidis, a sophomore, states, Digital Trends and joyous tradition with numerous make someone’s Christmas brighter “Disney+ is something to be excited Apple AirPods Pro advantages and it is a great way to kick by getting something I know they will about, especially for those who are into some complain about the lack of off the holiday season! Here’s why: cherish,” EBHS Junior Sandra Lee said. characters who are finally getting their own aesthetic appeal and awkward design 1. The Secrecy: Some things are best Though it might be easy to get shows.” It is relatively in the newer model. In other words, to be kept secret and that is definitely jealous over others’ gifts, as junior affordable, sitting at make sure your giftee is a fan of the the case with Secret Santas! With the Sophia Jorgensen sweetly put it, $6.99 a month for full gadget before dropping the big bucks. identity of the gift giver hidden, there is “Secret Santa is a great way to light up access compared with So there it is: two gift ideas to nothing better than thinking about who the air with Christmas Spirit. It brings Netflix’s $12.99 for jumpstart your holiday season. the special someone might be who gifted excitement and anticipation to all!”

NFL Midseason Holiday Hallmarks Review by Phoebe Su by Rohit Narla As temperatures drop outside and 8 year-old boy, Kevin, who is grounded This year’s NFL season has been very Brunswick High School junior Ben holiday fever rise, students at East the night before a family trip to Paris. entertaining, and exciting to watch. Lipman stated “I’m disappointed with Brunswick High School share what He awakes the next day and realizes that Many teams have improved since last the Browns this year, as they had a they think are the best holiday his family left without him by accident. year, and there have been certain players lot of buzz surrounding them, only to movies and episdoes of all time. The A Christmas wish to have the house all who have been making quite the impact. stumble out of the gate.” The Browns answers were a mix of old and new. to himself soon turns into a disaster, and Sophomore Steven Chase stated had come into the season expected it becomes his job to protect the house. “Two teams that have been impressive to be a top team, as they had received A favorite among the East Brunsiwck are the 49ers and Ravens. Both teams new additions such as superstar High School students, Home Alone is have exceeded expectations, and have set wide receiver Odell Beckham Jr. the perfect action-packed comedy movie themselves up for a Super Bowl run. The Meanwhile on the east coast, Tom to watch. There is even a whole series 49ers spectacular defensive has powered Brady, at age 42, is still throwing if you enjoy the first movie. Seniors them to be the top in the NFC, and the plenty of touchdowns, and could earn Alyna Negron and Brenna Murphy Ravens are a big surprise due to Lamar another Super Bowl Ring for the New both agree that “it is a nice family movie Jackson’s dual-threat ability, and now he England Patriots. That is unless the to watch” and that “it is so funny.” is leading the way in the the MVP race.” Ravens, 49ers, Sehawks, New Orleans However, if you prefer short episodes Lamar Jackson has silenced his Saints, Kansas City Chiefs, Green Bay to a full-length movie, there are several doubters, as many people thought he Packers can do something about it. IMDb.com options for you as well. Many students wouldn’t be successful throwing the There’s a lot more to come, but stay Home Alone is a family favorite at EBHS suggest the Friends Christmas episodes, football at the professional level. East tuned to see how the season turns out! which are packed with lighthearted Senior Rachel Lobo, an avid humor. “The One With the Routine” Christmas lover, enjoys the Hallmark episode takes you on an adventure with movie Christmas Under Wraps. In this siblings Ross and Monica as they try to movie, an ambitious doctor moves to an steal the spotlight with their poor dancing Alaskan town and unexpectedly finds skills on the set of Dick Clark’s New Year’s love and happiness when she discovers Rockin’ Eve. Another great holiday a holiday secret. Personally, Lobo loves episode is “The One With the Holiday “Hallmark and Candace Cameron Bure” Armadillo” in which Ross tries to teach and believes that “there’s nothing better his son, Ben, about Hanukkah, but Ben than a movie about both medicine and is solely invested in all things Christmas. Christmas”-- two of her favorite things. With all the great old and new Besides Hallmark movies, it seems holiday episodes and movies out that students also enjoy old-time classics there, it is not too early to snuggle like the 1990 film Home Alone. As the up with some blankets, make some Presley Myers title suggests, the plot revolves around an hot chocolate, and flip on the TV. Ravens QB Lamar Jackson avoiding Chargers’ tacklers Page 6 News & Opinions Californians are Catching ZZZs by Mara Zaki As December 2019 arrives, East 8:30 am or after.” Research on later start times give students Brunswick High School eagerly the correlation between lack of numerous health benefits, anticipates the annual winter sleep and teen health influenced including lower rates of break. Whether they celebrate this big change. According to depression and smaller chances a religious holiday or just hope various studies, adolescents of getting into car crashes “People do not charge their for snow, both students and experience a shift in biological caused by sleep deprivation. teachers like the idea of turning rhythms which causes them Mrs. Alimonti, a teacher of devices to 50% capacity off the dreaded morning alarm to become tired later at night psychology and sociology here and cozying up in bed. But and sleep later in the morning. at EBHS, believes that because and expect them to make what if students had the luxury So the age-old argument of of these advantages, change of sleeping in every day? Well, telling a teenager to go to sleep cannot come fast enough. it through the day… but we lucky Californian high schoolers earlier just does not work. She endorses the idea of later just became the envy of students Both politicians and school start times in East Brunswick, are doing that to our own across the nation. Governor systems have been presented informing her own classes brains” -Mrs. Alimonti Gavin Newsom signed Senate with the overwhelming amount about the setbacks they face Bill 328 in October, a law stating of advantages this change when they only get four to five “high schools will start classes at brings. Research shows that hours of sleep a night. Mrs. Alimonti compares the human brain to a phone being charged: parents, and educational sleep may have its benefits, people do not “charge their groups. A consequence of later even if it may cost the mental devices to 50% capacity and start times is later end times, wellbeing of the student body. expect them to make it through forcing commuting parents to Although the change in the day… but we are doing find early morning childcare. California’s high school hours that to our own brains.” She Teens also grapple with the is quite monumental, it seems hopes other states will learn decision to find after school unlikely that other states will from California’s example jobs, which would leave younger follow its progressive reforms. and start adopting their own siblings at home unattended. Hopefully, as the nation moves versions of Senate Bill 328. But Students at EBHS realize this forward it will examine the how many people are willing as well. Junior Vritika Thadhani science and determine what to shift their own schedules states that “As we approach is best for its youth. But for for the sake of students? college, we have all these now, it seems like EBHS still Unfortunately, Governor extracurriculars and community has the wonderful and wintry Newsom’s decision to sign service hours to complete… holidays to look forward newsrust.com Senate Bill 328 has faced major There are only so many to. Definitely a great time Most teens fail to meet the recommended 8-10 hours of sleep opposition from some students, hours in the day.” Sacrificing to catch up on some ZZZs! EBHS DOES THE HOLIDAYS by Alefiya Presswala The most wonderful time of He wears a fake gray beard and custom that his family follows. or Hanukkah, she and her while everyone is watching the the year is finally here. Stores a blue light up hat and robes. “My family members own a family go out to get Chinese ball drop, I am eating grapes, and houses are decorated He gives out presents from pool in Canada. Even though it’s food every year on Christmas one for each second. And with bright lights, presents are our family and gelt, which are freezing up there, we take a swim Day because those are the for each grape I eat, I wish being wrapped, and everything chocolate coins. He’s basically a in there, just for fun,” he said. only places open. EBHS for one thing that I want for smells like peppermint. Jewish Santa,’’ Machurov joked. Many families also get into sophomore Nora Hennessy each month of the year. By, East Brunswick, a diverse Sophomore Rachel the religious aspects of these talked about how she and her like, 8 seconds, it’s like you’re town filled with people of all Gurevich, who also celebrates holidays. Sophomore Kerol Faltas discussed the service that takes place at his Coptic church. “It’s comprised of a lot of singing in a different languages (Coptic and Arabic) and a lot of symbolic actions that “We invite lots of friends and family represent how Christmas was over, and we make spring rolls. It’s celebrated originally and how to celebrate the overall happiness super easy, and everybody just makes of the time,” Faltas noted On the contrary, other their own.” families stray away from the -Astrid Le religious respects, like Astrid Le’s. “My family doesn’t really jewishboston.com do religion,” Le said. “But I’m This Jewish holiday is also called the Festival of Lights Asian, and culturally, spring rolls are an easy and popular item to siblings receive oranges in her shoving them down your different religious and ethnic Hanukkah, added that make, so that’s what we do! We Christmas stockings each year. throat because the seconds go backgrounds, celebrates although she doesn’t have invite lots of friends and family Sophomore Brianna Boen said by so fast. But it’s really fun.” numerous holiday cultural any family traditions, at over, and we make spring rolls. that her mom has made clam You may not necessarily traditions and customs. her temple, “there’s a huge It’s super easy, and everybody chowder on Christmas Eve celebrate all of these holidays, Junior Ari Machurov menorah lighting ceremony just makes their own.” every year since she was little. or even any of them, but in described her grandfather, where every family brings their Like Le, several other Senora Useche, who comes East Brunswick, it’s hard to feel Harry, who assumes the role own [menorah] and [they] all holiday traditions revolve from Venezeulan heritage, excluded from the holiday spirit. “Hanukkah Harry” annually. light them at the same time”. around food! Junior Vrithika talked about how rushed she No matter who you are, this is a “My grandfather dresses up as Andrew Salama, a junior at Thadhani said that even though feels when it comes to her wonderful time to count your ‘Hanukkah Harry’ every year. EBHS, has a rather interesting she doesn’t celebrate Christmas tradition. “During New Years, blessings and have a little fun! Page 7 Features & Entertainment A Musical “Sleigh Ride” by Rebecca Smoller With Thanksgiving behind concert. Dr. Gopal’s orchestra class, and often offering us and amidst the quickly students were not scared of the guidance and encouragement approaching holiday season, challenges facing them when to the sophomores just starting the East Brunswick High they were given five new pieces in the EBHS orchestra. School Orchestra worked to learn, as most of them have Sophomore cellist Victoria hard in preparing for their been playing for over six years! Macaro, for one, was excited winter concert. It was held This was the last winter about the concert, commenting on December 4 at 7:00pm in concert for the seniors in the that while the music was the Hammarskjold Middle EBHS orchestra, marking challenging, “it sounds very, School’s Performing Arts the beginning of the end of very good when we all play.” Center, and shaped up to be a their time in the arts in East She goes on to mention that wonderful evening for students, Brunswick Public Schools. her “favorite song [they] played family, and friends alike. Despite this realization, the was the St. Paul’s Suite Finale.” The orchestra, directed by senior class continued to Sarah Bores, an 11th grader Dr. Arvin Gopal, rehearsed work hard to make their last and viola player in the EBHS in-class five days a week since year count, appreciating the Orchestra agrees with Macaro, Pjvoice.org September in preparation for the fun moments in Dr. Gopal’s mentioning that the piece is her The Orchestra will perform in the EBPAC in Hammarskjold personal favorite as well because Commenting on the it is “more upbeat and different hardworking spirit of the than others we usually play.” orchestra, junior Sarah Bores While the rest of also remarked that she and her pieces in the lineup may be peers “have improved so much unfamiliar to some, the holiday from the beginning of the year classic “Sleigh Ride” by Leroy and everyone has been working Anderson was also performed. so hard. Kids even practice The orchestra plays this beloved during their study hall and lunch Christmas carol every year, and periods!” Dr. Gopal can’t help has a special tradition where but smile while reflecting about seniors can audition to conduct how his students “continue the piece or play percussion to improve every day.” The instruments. This allows the commitment and dedication of students to really become students in the orchestra is truly immersed in the spirit of music inspiring, leaving no doubt in Hannah Junn and learn the skill of leading an anyone’s mind why the concert Orchestra practicing “Sleigh Ride” with senior Joshua Redona as the conductor orchestra to perform a piece. turned out as great as it did! Meet The New Kanye new muse, same musician by Julie Ham Through titles like “On God”, alignment with the Christan now and still fit in. Junior rings out with his words “you’re walked onstage during Taylor “Use This Gospel”, and faith, Kanye still maintains Aditya Ningaiah confesses that my Chick Fil-A,” listeners can’t Swift’s acceptance speech. “Jesus is Lord”, Kanye West loyalty to his unique sound; he “never seems to get tired” help but chuckle as they are Kanye has always been at the opens a new chapter of his although his lyrics have adopted of Kanye’s music even if he reminded of his eccentricity. forefront of the rap genre. music as it is apparent that he a new direction, there are little “grew tired of everything from His public persona has always His career has spanned over a has committed himself to a derivations to be found in his the late 2000s to early 2010s.” been a thing of question; one decade, and fans and listeners newfound path of Christianity, musicianship. By opening with Kanye’s continuity is also of the most prominent displays alike are right to await what and this motif is reflected in gospel-esque music and closing found in his whacky lyricism. of his “weirdness” can be at the Kanye’s future will bring. the rest of his album, JESUS IS with more bass-heavy, auto- As his song “Closed on Sunday” 2009 Grammy’s in which he KING. However, between the tuned tracks, he demonstrates religious references and Bible to his audience that while he verses in his songs, Kanye’s now believes “Jesus is Lord”, he genius lyrics and melodic remains the same old Kanye. instrumentals prove that he has This phrase holds true for junior much more in store for his fans. Ethan Chu, who says that JESUS Since late September, IS KING “keeps the same feel Kanye’s fans have waited in and experience of old Kanye anticipation for the release West music through its usage of his album. Though it was of 60s R&B samples.” Kanye’s originally set to be released on albums were always enigmatic. September 27, when the day Listeners could clearly hear his finally arrived, there was still experimentation with different no album, and fans were left kinds of sounds and layering in anxious and impatient. But after the songs; the next song could a month of mixed messages never be anticipated because he from the artist, fans were not let always seemed to surprise. This down by its eventual release on unpredictability has garnered October 25. JESUS IS KING him a sense of timelessness. features several other artists, While other songs have a including Clipse, Ty Dolla distinct flavor that causes them $ign, Fred Hammond, and to have an “older” sound, that numerous producers; its release quality seems to be lacking marks Kanye’s first album in Kanye’s music. In fact, his since his 2018 album, titled Ye. older albums, like Heartbreak, TIME Despite Kanye’s recent could potentially be rereleased Kanye West kneels at his “Sunday Service” at Coachella. Page 8 News & Entertainment The Trillion-Dollar Holiday Season by Mary Elgayar and Siri Dasari As the holiday season quickly shoppers’ needs and appeal spike to boost their earnings company’s favor to “advertise Economist Jack Kleinhenz approaches, companies are to customers just before the just before the year’s end. holiday products earlier,” so observed, “significant economic planning seasonal discounts holiday season. These methods, Specifically, for Target CEO that companies expand their unease,” but due to “job growth and promotions in order to take among others, allow the Brian Cornell, it means fewer holiday sale time. Luckily, and higher wages...there’s more advantage of increased customer company to sustain its revenues, weekends for holiday parties many companies have already money in families’ pockets, so turnout. Unfortunately, this as holiday sales are critical to the and less time to shop. Recently, year’s holiday season is cut short overall income of a company. he said that “every day counts” due to a delayed Thanksgiving. Regarded as “a veritable when discussing the length Thus, companies need to devise goldmine,” the holiday season of the holiday season and alternative marketing strategies obligates consumers to spend issues related to a shorter one. to maintain their revenue. more money than usual, which Adding on to the worries of Some retail companies, such is very profitable for companies. companies and shoppers, the as Walmart, have decided to According to Bloomberg Trump administration’s tariff on kickstart their holiday sales Businessweek, “consumers are Chinese-made clothes, shoes, earlier this year in an attempt to expected to spend $1,048 each,” and some electronics went into model a normal-length holiday a 4% increase from 2018. The effect on September 1-- a second round of tariffs soon to follow. When considering how many popular gifts are made in China, AP Photo/Richard Drew Shoppers browse Macy’s iconic Holiday Lane section the rising prices on Chinese imports does not bode well for begun to extend their holiday we see both the willingness and the upcoming holiday season. sales earlier. In terms of ability to spend this holiday According to the National marketing, this strategy is wise in season.” As a result, there is Retail Federation (NRF), the maximizing profits, even in less the potential for a stronger trade war with China has caused ideal situations. In conjunction holiday season as compared 79% of shoppers to worry with Naik, Bajwa continues to last year. NRF President about holiday gift expenses. that larger corporations could and CEO, Matthew Shay, Consequently, consumers will “lower their prices,” in order to also contends that the U.S. be more cautious with their compete with other companies, economy is continuing to grow eMarketer Inc. spending, limiting the ideal as well as spread their advertising and consumer spending is still 2019 is predicted to have the first-ever trillion-dollar holiday season profit earned by companies. across multiple platforms. the primary engine behind Sophomores Sheza Bajwa Regardless of the issues that growth. This shows how season. Other companies, shorter season this year inhibits and Sana Naik offer other regarding the shopping season, companies can persevere in such as Target, expanded their the earnings of companies that possible marketing techniques. the NRF projects a strong difficult business situations, platform to accommodate rely on the holiday consumer Naik emphasizes that it is in the holiday season. NRF Chief such as a shorter holiday season.

by Dhanvi Shah and Chill (literally) Holiday movies, especially Netflix, Hulu, and Disney+. an average of 75% on Rotten Sophia Olakangil shared that on their opinions and become recognized classics, have Netflix itself produced many Tomatoes and has overall high although holiday movies are this generation’s definition of made iconic contributions to new movies this season, leaving approval from most consumers not her favorite genre to begin the epitome of pop culture. pop culture throughout film viewers with a plethora of and common critics. Audiences However, according to most history. Most teenagers and options. Among the many new seemed to find comfort from EBHS students, nothing beats young adults warmly think back movies produced by Netflix this the cliches and relatability of the originals. When asked for to their first of many times season, the most popular ones another typical high school their favorite holiday movie watching The Polar Express in have been The Knight Before movie, as the film follows the over the Instagram Q&A school. As the holiday season Christmas, Let it Snow, Klaus, stories of several teens who feature, EBHS students gave a comes around, members of all and Arctic Dogs. Movies from find love during the Christmas variety of responses including age groups gather to relive the other producers include Frozen season. Many viewers believe Home Alone, The Polar evergreen movies and find joy II, Last Christmas, A Cinderella that it may even possibly be the Express, The Nightmare Before in them each time. This winter Story: Christmas Wish, and Love Actually (a classic 2003 Christmas, and Elf, all movies season, however, many sources Noelle. The heavily publicized Christmas rom-com) of 2019. older than the generation itself. For younger children and The same sentiment is echoed families, Frozen II, Noelle, by sophomore Emily Lildhar, Klaus, and Arctic Dogs take whose favorite movie is “How the lead this holiday season. The Grinch Stole Christmas With Frozen II being the most [because] Jim Carrey is so funny well-known of these, critics and terribly relatable!” Many are not as impressed with it as students agree that the quality they were with its predecessor, of older movies is stronger Frozen (2013). They are also Fanpop.com and more entertaining as well, indifferent to Last Christmas, Frozen 2 Movie Poster in accordance with Lildhar. one of the more publicized While many share the same movies of the season. IMDB with, she especially dislikes views as Lildhar, Olakangil, and places both movies at 7.2 Netflix and Hallmark holiday other EBHS students, there and 6.6 respectively. The movies since “it’s the same plot is no doubt that any holiday most impressive of family- repeated over and over again. movie is significant to pop Netflix.com friendly movies was Netflix It’s cheesy now.” Yet, seeing culture history—even the new The cast of the Netflix OriginalLet it Snow Original Klaus, which Rotten how younger children have not ones. Since each generation is Tomatoes rates an impressive received exposure to movies susceptible to new judgements of entertainment have switched Netflix Original Let it Snow, 89%, making it among the labelled as “classic” by older based on earlier exposures, the from cable and the theater aimed towards teenage and better-scoring family movies generations, new movies are next icons in pop culture can to streaming sources such as young adult audiences, received on the site. Sophomore likely to have a greater impact sometimes be unpredictable.