Staff Writer By JureaMcIntosh Celebrating BlackHistorymonth:whatelse canhighschoolsdo? Gifted andteamadviser Mr petition, thestudentsdidgreat,”said “Eventhoughwelostatthecom- pared. tional practicesessionstobemorepre- even doneafewSaturdayandaddi- Monday forthiscompetition,andhave August 29,2017onceaweekevery Studentshavebeenpracticingsince sophomore. learn alotthisyear,”MelanyJunco, I wasjustanalternate.ableto “Itwasagoodseason,eventhough tion sidelost. won theirdefensewhiletheprosecu- ily membersaboardhisship.Students was guiltyforthedeathsoffourfam- ing anactualtrialaboutwhetheraman practiced asemi-alteredcasemimick- Regional competition,wherestudents day Dec.7,2017fortheMockTrial at the ing the2018seasonaftercompeting Studentsarealreadycontemplat- Winorlose...theystillprevailed. Staff Writer By JenilynDjan as lawy Competing Hear students’thoughts Canadaandthe UnitedKingdomalsocelebrate a seniorfrom medicine topolitical rights,”saidDeborahMarin, advances thatimpactoursociety greatly “Blackindividualshavepioneered somany value thecontributionsofblack people. Month isatimetorememberthe strugglesand oppression intoday’ Withgrowingissuesofracism, inequalityand senior fromCrosbyHighSchool. and teachersinourschools,”said a senseofbelongingamongtheblackstudents tions, lessonsandsomuchmorewillhelpbuild “Havingawholemonthsetasideforcelebra- question raisedisareschoolsdoingenough? as welltheimportanceofrepresentation, and backgroundsdiscussthemonth’ but as President GeraldR.Fordmadeitofficialin1976, States celebratesBlackHistoryMonthsince DuringthemonthofFebruary associated withtheCivilRightsMovement. song whicheventuallybecomeaprotest “W 18, 2017. V donated thetoystoW business teacherMrs.Sasso.Sasso staff, accordingtoclubadviserand students, clubmembersandschool about 50toys(someseenabove)from Saturday ‘stuffingabus,’broughtin December ratherthanoutsideona held inschoolthefirsttwoweeksof drive, whichchangedin2017tobe TOYS GALORE Ea incent DePaulShelterMonday . Clark,teacherofthe should becelebrated. e ShallOvercome”isawell-knowngospel W W aterbury studentsfromdif about howFeb.14 aterbury Courthouse The W aterbury Career The annualDECAtoy Read page3. Photo byE.Acevedo/staff s society . aterbury’ Elementary schoolstudentscompleteprojects,readbooksbutwhathappens inuppergrades? T ers alented and Thurs- , BlackHistory Academy , Dec. s S Ama ferent schools s importance , theUnited t. Ansah, a g TheMockTrialteamhopestoad- T prosecution didgreat,”saidKariny “Eventhoughwelost,Ithoughtour their case,buttheprosecutionlost. Thedefensesideoftheteamwon , from . opoleski, asophomore. DECA toydriverunwithinthe Sassosaidsheplansonhavingthe said Sasso. “Itdidn’tchangetheoutcome,” held outdoorsto‘stuffabus.’ same asthe2016DECAtoydrive ter, buttheoutcomewasabout benefiting S Education Clubof nate toystothe2017Distributive Manyclubmembersdidnotdo- business teacher Mrs. Sasso,clubadvisorand tion fromclubmembers,”said “(W day? previous yearsreceivedina Didtwoweekschangewhat DECA Staff Writer By ElenaAcevedo “It’ times website. www history cans ineveryareaofendeavorthroughout our often neglectedaccomplishmentsof black that thisisthe“opportunitytohonor thetoo- February asBlackHistoryMonth withhispoint every presidentsinceFordhas acknowledged sented duringtheirownculture’ Itisimportantthatallstudentsfeelrepre- ments,” saidRebekahMerancy so muchmoreandallwehaveisafewannounce- “W students feelthehighschoolsdoapoorjob. like RosaParksandMartinLutherKing,Jr,some to doprojects,andreadabouthistoricalfigures ebrations forBlackHistoryMonth,askstudents said ZhaelynnCooper selves andhavetheirownsenseofbelonging,” “Everybodyshouldbeabletoexpressthem- February Black HistoryMonth:theformerdoessoin While le F t. e had)25%participa- V .ibtimes.com, the internationalbusiness e candomore;theelementaryschools incent DePaulShel- ,” accordingtoauthor s importantforpeople toacknowledge W , whilethelatterdoessoinOctober America (DECA) aterbury elementaryschoolshavecel- . toydriv Forget candy What idealgiftswould you givelovedones? , asenior Outcome remainssamedespitetoydrivebeingmovedindoors Readpages6,7. Bryant, asophomore harder toadvance,”saidWilliam year andnextwe’llworkeven “Ourteamworkedreallyhardthis vance tothenextroundseason. s celebration,and other littleboywouldlovecars.She nephew lovescarssoshefiguredan- smaller trucksinsidebecauseher Shedonatedabigtruckwithfour in theclubfortwoyears. Alyssa and almostnooneshowedup,”said “LastyearIfrozeoutsideforhours drive went. sponses tohowthisyear V Monday Sasso thendonatedafterschoolon club members,alongwithbookswhich were donatedbyfaculty come didn’ the oneSaturdayoutsidesinceout- school againfortwoweeksratherthan T , senior . reye Greenon incent’ Legal Eagles:Kennedy’ Ahrens, ajuniorwhohasbeen . s. Membershaddif , Dec.18,2017toS Ameri- , flowers. t change. e bringsin50toysforcityshelter . ly Photo compiledbyJ.Djan/staff sprinter ICONIC GESTURE as equal,according totime.com.Smithtookhisshoes of sprinter JohnCarlos, right,raisedblack-glovedfist citizens,” accordingtoGreen. tion madetoournation’ Americans “recognizetheimportant contribu- . PresidentFordoriginallyrequested thatall of Education. to LeahShaferfromtheHarvardGraduateSchool ing perspectivesofhistoricalevents,”according ings withhistoriesofnon-whitemalesordiffer- their owntextbook,’offeringsupplementalread- History teacherscanencouragestudentsto‘build authors theythinkcurriculumshouldinclude. and theycanaskstudentstoreflectonwhich writers notusuallyincludedintheliterarycanon, be an who offerdiversenarrativesofwhatitmeansto “Englishteacherscanfocusonblackauthors tory Monthinclusive? WhatcanhighschoolsdotomakeBlackHis- around us,”saidsenior and respectdifferentethnicitiescultures . About 50toys , studentsand ’ s DECA American. Educatorsshouldstrivetoteach ferent re- T ommie Smith,center toy er t. At the1968Olympics,goldmedal sophomore Kariny Tili, WilliamBryant,KelseyGoldbach,seniorFukaReale,juniorSusanaMejia, sophomore SamarahBrunette.Backrow: Githinji, JenilynObuobi-Djan,DeryaDemirel,MarinDelaney front row Thursday LEGAL EAGLES “Nomorestandingforhoursout- members. did enjoyspendingtimewiththe ing outsideinthecoldforhours,she event, althoughshedidn’tlikestand- Rivera’ Unlike girl andaboxofcarsforyoungboy Riveradonatedadollforyoung in theclubfortwoyears. Allison Rivera,ajuniorwhohasbeen girl sonoonewouldbeleftout,”said “(Iwanted)toincludeaboyand other student’ for younggirls,whichimpactedan- for youngboys,theyusuallyshop because shefeelsnoonereallyshops decided tobuyatoyforyoungboy s lifeandculturebyblack Alessandra Leitao. Ahrens, theDECA s favoritecommunityservice , lef , andbronzemedal , Dec.7,2017. Sideravages runDisney: t toright:sophomoresNadiaEvon,MelanyJunco,juniorsRisper Sound crazy?It’strue! s thoughtprocess. 48 milesinfourdays. Kennedy’s MockTrialteamcompetedattheWaterburyCourt T opolosci, andjuniors They wononecaseandlostanother toydriveis s MockT Read page8. s tocallattention tohow Photo fromtime.com,100mostinfluentialphotos,takenbyJ.Dominis f torepresentblack poverty . Waterbury, Conn.06708 Ariana PadillaandEdgar bond witheachother,”saidSasso. just agoodwayforthemembersto “Ithinkusdoingitoutsidewas bitter cold. for theoutdoordrivebutnot the DunkinDonutsSassoprovided said, mentioningthathedidenjoy that Ilikedwhenwasyounger,”he young girl,becauseIpickedouttoys young boywouldlikeratherthana “It’ toys. since hewantedtodonateavarietyof action figuresandasetofHotWheels Porteladonatedachessgame, three years. junior whohasbeenintheclubfor side inthecold,”saidBrianPortela,a Adviser Mr 422 HighlandAvenue Volume XIII,IssueV Kennedy HighSchool February 2018 s easiertopickouttoysthata rial team America musttreat blacks . Clark,sophomores , KaitlynGiron,and . Membersare, . Y epez. T esi page 2, The Eagle Flyer/February 2018 Science shows why February has fewer days By Alex Robinson, Mehdi Namazi Graphic Designer, Staff Writer Caesar’s 46 BC calendar acknowledges leap year, 12 months

Left with less than the rest. “It’s never really bothered me time and keep the calendar in sync with Every month other than February has either that February has less days in its space. 30 or 31 days. Why is it that February has only month compared to the rest,” said Some were aware of this fact; city 28 or 29? This is how the calendar has been for Jocelyn Bermeo, a Kennedy se- resident George Anderson said he was centuries, and it is said the Romans left it with nior. shocked. 28 days after adding days to the other months To Bermeo, 28 days in Feb- “Leap years actually mean some- trying to make the years’ seasonal cycles sync ruary is normal, life goes on thing?” said Anderson. up, yet students and city residents shared con- whether there are fewer days in Anderson could not believe leap fusion on why February has less days. this month than others, while years actually had a significant impact “Thirty days hath September, April, June, some cite Roman influences. on society today. He said he believed it and November. All the rest have 31, except for “Caesar’s model helped realign the Roman was an old tradition from long ago. Ander- February, which got the short stick because it’s calendar,” according to Evan Andrews, a writer son was glad to have learned a new fact and was cold and no one likes it,” according to Lucas at history.com, a site that researches the history curious about the topic, wanting to know more. Reilly, the web editor for www.mentalfloss.com, of the world as far back as pangea. “When did we figure out why we needed a a website with everything from quizzes to brain Leap years exist for scientific reasoning. Al- leap year?” said Anderson. teasers on a variety of different topics. most every four years an extra day was added to Egyptians were some of the first to see the February has only 28 days because the Ro- the calendar, Feb. 29, with the additional 24 hours need for a leap year, according to mans added the month after the others. In the ensuring the calendar stays in line with the earth’s www.timeanddate.com. Leap year was not prac- 8th century BC, they originally used the Calen- movement around the sun. The daily calendar in ticed in Europe until the time of Julius Caesar. It dar of Romulus, according to Reilly. This calen- use today has 365 days in a year, but in reality finally became official in 46 B.C. Caesar and dar was only 10 months. The year started off in there are 365.2421. Although that may not be Sosigenes, a Roman astronomer, redesigned the March and this marked the spring equinox. Then much of a difference, over time it can add up. So Roman Calendar which now officially had the the year ended in December. leap year’s purpose is to make up for any lost 12 months and 365 days. During school breaks, do teachers overload homework? By Elena Acevedo Staff Writer With projects, reading, more can city students truly enjoy vacation days? Earn scholarship money, Were Waterbury high school students truly able to enjoy their 10-day Unlike Brodeur, Bryant had to finish her history project on climate learn new skills, get winter break? change. Bryant was vey surprised many of her teachers did not assign career opportunities, be a Some students had an enjoyable vacation and didn’t have to stress work over the break. On average she spends four hours doing her home- published author, and about having to do loads of work over their break while others said they work. She was able to have an enjoyable break and felt she was not over- gain community service: were inundated with homework during Christmas 2017. whelmed with work since she got it done early, which wasn’t the case for what are you waiting for? “I didn’t get any projects or any type of work,” said Benjamin Brodeur, everyone. a freshman at Holy Cross. “I wasn’t able to enjoy my break, because I had to worry about com- Sign up for Journalism or Public Brodeur was able to enjoy his break and spend time with his family, and pleting my projects,” said Evan Smith, a freshman at Crosby. Speaking courses, and join The Eagle Flyer Kennedy’s not stress about school. On the average Brodeur usually spends an hour Smith was given two projects: he had to write a two-page paper on award-winning student newspaper. and a half doing his homework, while another student spent more. theatre for his history class and write a children’s book for his English No experience necessary. “I usually spend about four hours doing homework,” said Brianna class. He was successful in completing his projects, but did not have an Stop by room 105 to learn more. Bryant, a freshman at Kennedy. enjoyable break, just like a Sacred Heart freshman. “Overwhelmed and stressed over break,” said Ryan Weston, a fresh- man at Sacred Heart. Weston was assigned a brochure for his history class and a packet of questions for his physical science class. He felt overwhelmed and stressed with the amount of work given. On average Weston spends about two hours completing his homework. He felt he was not able to enjoy his break as much as he would have liked due to all the work he had to complete, but one sophomore felt otherwise. “I was able to enjoy my break, but it felt very short,” said Christina Capozzi, a sophomore at Kennedy. Capozzi on average spends three to four hours doing homework. She was given a study review packet to complete and she decided to work on her project that wasn’t due until Jan. 12, 2018. “I did enjoy my break, a break from all the stress,” said Marnie DeLaRosa, a sophomore at Waterbury Arts Magnet School. DeLaRosa choose to work on her English presentation that wasn’t due until Jan. 11. She usually spends about three hours on her homework. “Had an enjoyable break. I managed my time so that I wouldn’t be stressing about it at the last minute,” said Julia Mitnick, a sophomore from Sacred Heart. Mitnick, unlike DeLaRosa and Capozzi, was given: a chemistry project, a history document-based question (DBQ) along with having to make flash cards for history, an English essay, and questions out of her literature book. She managed her time well, so that she would able to enjoy her break and not have to spend it stressing and worrying, she said. On average Mitnick spends around one to three hours doing homework. “I don’t really spend much time on my homework,” said Langston Racine, a junior at Waterbury Career Academy. Racine enjoyed his break very much since he wasn’t assigned much work. His only assignment was a set of eight questions for his AP Chem- istry class. He was unable to complete the assignment, but was not wor- ried or stressed over his break, just like another junior. “Wasn’t stressed because the work wasn’t as difficult as I accepted,” said Ariana Guareno, a junior at Crosby. Guareno was given a chapter review for AP statistics and a scrapbook autobiography project for AP psychology. On average she spends one to two hours doing homework, much like another junior. “About one and half to two hours doing homework,” said Siobhan Gilmore, a junior at Sacred Heart. Gilmore was given an English assignment regarding The Scarlet Letter by Nathaniel Hawthorne where she had to write two essays on the symbolism and how main characters change in the book. “Very enjoyable, I didn’t get any work at all,” said Nosa Lgbinewuare, a senior at Crosby. Lgbinewuare said he had a stress free and worry free break. He felt it was very enjoyable because he didn’t have to complete any projects or work. “Very enjoyable, didn’t have much work to complete,” said Michele Vaz, a senior at Sacred Heart, who had to read and summarize The Canter- bury Tales by Geoffrey Chaucer.

I wasn’t able to enjoy my break, because I had to worry about com- “pleting my projects. Evan Smith, freshman ”at Crosby High School Features The Eagle Flyer/February 2018, page 3

By Cameron Feliciano What is a good way to celebrate Valentine’s Day? Features Editor

“To spread love to the people outside of the “Together with anyone you love.” “Telling people you care about you love people you know.” Quincy Grant, sophomore them; it’s not about the flowers and candy.” Yvette Olivia Vargas, senior Mrs. Rothen, math teacher

“Sharing and being to people.” “Wait until the next day and buy all the “With someone that is special to you.” Jordan Solberg, freshman candy that’s on sale.” Zhaelynn Cooper, senior Derya Demirel, junior History of Feb. 14 includes pink almonds, goats, wolves? Read on By Lamya Sultana 19th century print making methods helped produce lovely, ready-made Valentine cards Poetry Editor COMMENTARY Illustrations from Valentines in the Old World “Wilt thou be mine? Dear love, reply, point out the history behind another legend. Feb. February. a long time ago. In England, St. Sweetly consent, or else deny; 14, when Valentine supposedly died, was the As time went by Valentine’s Day was banned before Whisper softly, none shall know, eve of an important Roman festival, known as the festival died out 1660, but with Charles II restored Wilt thou be mine, love? Ay or no?” the Lupercalia. On that evening, Roman youths and there has been no to the throne, the holiday returned by Margery Brews, Valentines in the Old World drew the names of girls who would be their part- real Valentine’s Day and the drawing of names resumed. ners during the festival. Valentine’s Day existed celebration in Italy By the 18th century, Valentine love It is known as a lighthearted holiday: but in the Roman ways. Because of this, the for many years. letters and handmade love tokens Valentine’s Day, a time when people express Roman rulers often made a display of their In France, for evolved into what now people think feelings of friendship, affection, love, and espe- cruelty toward Christians who were drawing Valentine’s Day, of as true Valentines. With the 19th cially love for someone special, according to au- people away from the older gods. there were popular century, better printing methods thor Edna Barth. The Lupercalia festival was during the days forms of pairing off, existed in England and America to Valentine, a priest or bishop who lived in the when Rome consisted of a group of shepherd which were quite make lovely, ready-made valentines third century after Christ, was allegedly beheaded folk, living on the hill now known as the Pa- unique. In the area of that grew interest in the holiday. Feb. 14. When he was buried, the story goes, a latine. During that time period, the time of Val- the Vosges Moun- Gradually, machine-made valentines pink almond tree near his grave burst into bloom entine, February came later than it does today, tains, the elders broke up into two groups: one dropped in quality. as a symbol of lasting love. so the festival was really a spring festival. group had a list of young women who wished to By the 20th century, the holiday had become No one seemed really sure of who St. Valen- There is no question about Lupercalia’s im- marry and the other had a list of young men. mostly a children’s holiday, taking place in tine was. But according to one legend, he was a portance. Feb. 15, the priests would gather on From the windows of two houses on opposite schools. In the United States, printing of cards Roman priest who wanted to help young people. the Palatine at the cave of Lupercal, where ac- sides of a narrow street, they took turns calling suffered due to World Wars I and II, yet Ger- When the Roman Empire needed soldiers, Em- cording to the legend, Romulus and Remus out the names, in a way forming pairs. The many stocked Valentines for American service- peror Claudius II decreed no one could marry or (founders of Rome) had been nursed by a mother couples would then meet. men stationed there, and that renewed Germany’s become engaged. Claudius believed that marriage wolf, which is why in Latin, lupus is the word If they liked each other there would be a meal interest in the holiday. The holiday mainly stayed made men want to stay for wolf. and Valentine dance. If a young man did not like alive in the United States and Britain, where at home instead of fight- At the door of the cave, his partner he would ignore her, and for eight people of all ages enjoy Valentine parties and ing wars. But Valentine several goats and dogs were days the other partner would keep to herself. the exchange of Valentines today. wasn’t having none of sacrificed, and then two youths But at the end of the time, the deserter (the one Valentine letters have been written in many that nonsense, therefore, would run around the streets who ignored) would be burned in effigy (a repre- different ways, but poetic ways were the best he defied the Emperor’s of Rome lashing about with sentation of the person) at a public bonfire. ones, such as the verse below from one comic decree and secretly mar- goatskin whips, where young Sometimes a young person would be paired with Valentine meant for a postman: ried a number of young women would crowd and wait an elderly person, just for fun. couples. He was arrested, for a lash of the whip because This sort of celebration left many hard feel- “Haste thee with this Valentine, thou imprisoned and put to it was believed to make them ings and often led to trouble. In 1776, the pairing silly man of letters, death, which is how St. better able to bear children. customs were finally banned, but here and there And try to do the best you can to serve Valentine’s Day came to The goatskin whips were it still continued into the 1800s. After that again and please your betters, be as a day of remem- called the februa, then changed by the order of the government, St. Valentine’s For I’d sooner live an old maid or else brance. to februatio. Both came from a Day disappeared in France. give up the ghost, Legends like that are Latin word meaning to purify, Austria, Hungary and Germany also had St. Than wed a grinning postman as interesting but fail to which led to the name now for Valentine’s Day courtship customs that vanished stupid as a post.” Commentary The Eagle Flyer/February 2018, page 4 CITY LANDMARK Staff Editorial Signatures Restaurant, the interior of which is Spread kindness, love: pictured at left and the exterior of which is seen Black History Month, below, has remained in business while nearby restau- Feb. 14 encourage joy rants including Pies and Pints Thanks to former president Gerald Ford, Febru- have closed in downtown ary has became a month that reminds us of what we Waterbury. should do: honor the remarkable accomplishments Signatures is located on 29 and presence of black Americans. Sadly, it was only Leavenworth a mere 42 years ago, in 1976, that Ford made Black Street. History Month an official U.S. holiday. Together with Valentine’s Day, Feb. 14, this month is the ideal time to spread kindness, love and joy to people of all Photos compiled from ages, including honoring our deceased heroes. restaurant website by R. Author Treye Green wrote of Ford’s request that Rosado/staff all Americans “recognize the important contributions made to our nation’s life and culture by black citi- Signatures remains ‘gem’ zens.” Notice Ford’s use of the words ‘life’ and ‘cul- By Raymond C. Rosado Employees adore city restaurant Staff Writer ture’ since both describe day to day interactions. COMMENTARY Green also explained Ford made a point to empha- A hidden gem? Signatures Restaurant will remain. weekday happy While other restaurants around downtown Waterbury have hours and live-music size Black History Month is the perfect “opportunity closed like Pies and Pints and Drescher’s, Signatures remains one nights. to honor the too-often neglected accomplishments of the finest in the eyes of its patrons and employees. “Thursdays al- of black Americans in every area of endeavor Signatures, located at 29 Leavenworth Street, is built on his- ways have been the torical ground. As you walk on the bright red velvet carpet out- days for me; I love throughout our history.” Notice the phrase ‘too-of- side the restaurant, it will take you into a place that will satisfy waitressing, feeling ten neglected.’ While it is important to recognize and your culinary desires. like Elvis Presley’s learn about Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Known as a hidden gem, Waterbury residents find it mind wife every time the performer starts singing,” said waitress Ashley blowing how this gorgeous restaurant stayed up-to-date with its Caldwell. or Rosa Parks, there are many other utilities, cleanliness and fresh atmosphere, while others have closed, Every Thursday night a well-known performer entertains both black Americans past and present to such as the Betsey Ross Diner. Betsy Ross, formerly located on young and older folks. Many listeners gather and start dancing. reference and study. 998 Wolcott Street, was known for its greasy burgers and out- What else has made Signatures, just minutes from the city standing French fries, yet possibly due to some violence sur- court house, a favorite? What is equally neglected are the rounding the location, the diner shut down in early 2010. “Signatures has lasted as long as it has because of the dedi- people in our lives who we might take for granted. “I find it unbelievably horrible that Betsy Ross Diner shut cated, hand working employees who care about their guests en- Valentine’s Day is also the perfect opportunity to down. I never expected my childhood eatery to just disappear joying amazing meals (and) beautiful classic atmosphere,” said after all the tasty food and laughs that I had with friends and manager Kendra Kondash. thank mothers, fathers, grandfathers, grandmothers, family,” said Waterbury resident Kristen L. Taggett. Staff has also noticed the quality of food and recognize how coaches, teachers, siblings, and anyone who has In our Waterbury community, we are so overthrown by vio- hard their fellow servers work. pushed us to be our best. This is also what Ford lence we forget to acknowledge our actions do affect the world “Food is delicious, and the service is above standard. The air around us, which makes a long-standing restaurant noteworthy. of the hidden gem makes you feel like you’re in heaven every time referenced by making Black History Month an offi- Signatures has a 4.7 out of 5-star rating online with 43 Google you step foot (through) the glass doors,” said server James Greene. cial holiday. Take the time to reflect, research and reviews, as of Jan. 30 , and offers free Wi-fi with outstanding “Food is very good and consistent. Consistent service and an remember the ordinary as well as extraordinary weekly specials. Topping the night off are mind blowing desserts, amazing atmosphere,” said bartender Michael McDuff. people who never let the color of their skin be an obstacle to doing the right thing. Animal testing: form of cruelty or crucial for humans? Leah Shafer from the Harvard Graduate School By Derya Demirel COMMENTARY HELPFUL OR HURTFUL Makeup and skin care products may of Education encourages teachers to incorporate rel- Correspondent be tested on animals, a practice PETA has called cruel. evant, meaningful lessons regarding Black History Animal testing in makeup: safe and regu- want lipstick put on them,” said junior Month into the curriculum. This is essential but also lated or cruel and inhuman? Risper Githinji. “I want to find the right serves as a reminder to celebrate those who have Students and staff voiced their positive foundation color for my skin, but I don’t brought progress, positive change and the potential and negative opinions on animal testing, want it to have to come from an animal.” primarily for makeup, with research begin- “People are trying to make money off to achieve more, into our daily lives. ning for this article in May 2016, and sadly, anything they can,” said senior Jessica animal testing continues today. Dardha who continued to say companies The Eagle Flyer “I know a lot of companies that test on know the damage of animal testing but, Photo illustration by D. Demirel/correspondent The Eagle Flyer is published monthly and animals are kept behind closed doors,” said “they don’t care if other people use their distributed free of charge to Kennedy High graduate Anthony Neves. “There’s a lot of brand.” the pros and cons to many controversial School and the greater Waterbury community. Our mission is to secrets we don’t know about.” But, there are always opposing opin- topics. educate, enlighten and inform our school and community while “Every day in countries around the ions. There are also opposing thoughts on developing journalism skills in Editorial and Business areas. world, animals are fighting for their lives. “I do care about animals but I feel they ProCon.org. The Eagle Flyer is a member of the Columbia Scholastic Press They are enslaved, beaten and kept in chains should test it on animals before humans,” Animal testing is unreliable in predict- Association, the New England Scholastic Press Association and to make them perform for humans ‘enter- said junior Will Mahony, who said it is ing how the product will affect humans the Journalism Education Association. School hours: 7:20 a.m. - 1:50 p.m. tainment,’ ” according to the People for Ethi- safer than to sacrifice human skin and hu- and the fact that 95 percent of animals used Address: 422 Highland Avenue, Waterbury, Conn. 06708 cal Treatment of Animals (PETA) website. man lives. to tests are not being protected by the Phone: 203-574-8150 Fax: 203-574-8154 “They are mutilated and confined to tiny “If they’re testing to see if there’s a Animal Welfare Act, are reasons animal cages so that we can kill them and eat them.” reaction, it’s okay,” said junior Nijea testing is doing more harm than good, Managing Editor Managing Editor “They are burned, blinded, poisoned, and McCowan, who also said humans may sue according to ProCon.org. Fuka Reale Jaleesa Bellamy cut up alive in the name of ‘science,’ ” ac- for the effects of testing, if products were Yet, there’s always a loop-hole. cording to PETA. “They are electrocuted, tested on them. “I’m sure they could use cultured skin News Editor Business Manager Graphic Designer strangled, and skinned alive so that people Jocelyn Dinino and Alexander Rice, cells,” said biology teacher, Mrs. Wright, Herta Sufka Stephanie Velez Alex Robinson can parade around in their coats; and worse.” both juniors, agreed companies such as who said companies may be able to “simu- Features Editor Commentary Editor Sports Editor Many companies like Maybelline, Lush, who test on volunteering humans, late an other skin layer response (to the Cameron Feliciano Gabriela Isak Toni Lopez Covergirl and Makeup Art Cosmetics according to Dinino, are morally right and products).” (MAC) test on animals, or use ingredients more companies should test on volunteers. Other people do agree with the idea of Writers/Photographers tested on animals, according to PETA. Dinino brought up Lush Cosmetics, simulating skin to test on. Jurea McIntosh, Leylah Veliju, Madison Turner, Raymond Products like the Benefit ‘They’re Real’ which is a brand that tests on volunteering “I don’t believe it is necessary to use Rosado, Kevin Luarasi, Jydia Davis, Alex Loomis, Jenilyn Djan, mascara, Revlon Colorstay foundation, and humans and fights against animal testing, animals because you could essentially run Marin Delaney, Alyssa Aherns, Sekai Ervin, Danny Ruiz, the Maybelline Color-Senational lipsticks which she believes more companies should simulations on how it would affect a Michelle Muchemi, NiJea McCowan, Carlieshka Villanueva, Allison Rivera, Anna Alvarez, Thomas Bishop III, Alexander are all products that are also tested on ani- do. human,” said senior Vincent Sarlo. Rice, Andry Evangelista, Vivian Bunker, Tyler Spooner, Elena mals. There are pros and cons to everything. “Because we talk so highly of our tech- Acevedo, Valeria Sotomayor, Madison Sargeant, Brian Portella, Even household products such as There are more than a dozen pros to nology, I would think we’d have some- Risper Githinji, Imael Izquierdo, Eduardo Cruz, Antonio Windex, Post-it notes, Vaseline and Band- animal testing, including it has contributed thing to simulate human skin to test on,” Arrindell, Janelle Djan, Aliyah James, Noah Crespo, Kerly aids are tested on animals, according to the to many life-saving cures and treatments said junior Ariana Cruz. Borja, Jake Linquindoli, Aimee Reninozo, Mehdi Namazi Business Insurance website at and there are no other adequate alterna- Now I leave you with a question: do Poetry Editor Artist Adviser BusinessInsurance.com. tives that have a whole-body system, ac- you believe animal testing is safe and regu- Lamya Sultana Jazmin Estrella Dr. Cybart-Persenaire “Animals can’t decide whether they cording to ProCon.org, a website debating lar, or cruel and inhuman? The Eagle Flyer/February 2018, page 5

Poetry Corner Untitled Spring, summer fashion By Adriana May Untitled By Adriana May In the shadows where I stay is where I’m meant to be. rekindles past trends Innocent girl in the slums is what they tend to call me. By Derya Demirel Love. I don’t talk like the rest so they assume that’s not ’80s inspiration, jewelry surfaces Correspondent A strong word used by many where I grew up COMMENTARY But only meaningful to few But little do they know I was here all along. Love, In the shadows is where you can find me As the new year approaches, so do Chanel was very late to the band- Is seeing faults and fixing them Lost in the shade of the trees all along the street. the styles from the past. wagon. Karl Lagerfeld must’ve been And seeking positivity for the future. --Nobody notices me. The biggest names in fashion such too busy in designing to recognize the But Love comes with a price. 8th grade graduation nobody cheered instead questioned as Gucci and Saint Laurent, open 2018 amount of criticism those annoying When it engulfs your life into a never-ending obsession when I got there with their Spring/Summer (S/S) collec- boots obtained. Instead of staying you need to know that there is no way out Yeah I sing, but nobody cares tions by putting together intense run- away from them, he embraced them If only I knew that when I sold myself to Love, It’s not like they have the ears to hear way shows to highlight new trends whole-heartedly. Everything was clear I’d be playing crazy eights with the devil. Often interrupted by more important things. while also rekindling old ones that can plastic, from boots, to belts, to bags, He soon became my best friend. Because like I said, in the shadows they can’t see me. His comforting words justified my sins My voice is but a whistle in the wind overpowered by be viewed on the FF Channel on to even hair ties.This was a pass from and made me believe lies gunshots and car horns you can hear from miles away. YouTube as of January 2018. the people and won’t catch much wind He taught me hate Small city, everyone knows everyone. Silk is the new black. this season. What has been gaining wind And made me chose lust over Love. Except that little chubby girl who plays that small The Creative Director for Saint is the coordinated sets. Matching suits It wasn’t until now that I realized, guitar thing. Laurent, Anthony Vaccarello, broke as well as tops and bottoms have been I sold myself to the devil, --not Love. I am so tired of being, fashion boundaries by producing a popping up everywhere, even in the For Love was just a contract with hidden messages Unknown, more Ready-To-Wear collection for the Chanel show. that can only be read by folding it certain ways But it is hard to become something when you are but S/S 2018 collection. The show, set un- The ’80s babies would be ecstatic. until you have folded it so much that a thought, your hands ache of arthritis Pushed to the back of everyone’s minds der the night sky, lit by the Eiffel There was a lot of ’80s inspiration and your heart aches from trying. And the one who gets laughed at for trying to fit in. Tower, was nothing less than extrava- in Gucci’s S/S 2018 collection. The Oh well, you tried. Too happy and fake is what they call me because I gant. women were seen in suits of all shapes, “Maybe love isn’t for you,” he says. want to be friends with everybody. The clothes, although more wear- sizes and fabrics. Suits may be so He holds his arms out and hugs you tightly. I guess becoming known wasn’t worth it after all able, didn’t leave anything to be de- popular because of the convenience of Protect yourself from Love, I’ll just go back into the shadows and disappear when sired. Silk pieces were a new addition coordinated sets. They always look For you, might get sold to the devil. the night falls. to Paris Fashion Week that were well- well together and take very minimal taken. They’ll be an exceptional, easy effort to imagine. and elegant look in the coming months. CoCo Chanel once said, “Before Victory of Bangla makes Feb. 21 special Silk, and silk-esque fabrics, add class you leave the house, look in the mirror and a feeling of exquisite taste to the and take at least one thing off.” By Salma Akter Battle for ‘beautiful language’ shows Bengalis pride wearer. To juxtapose this light and soft In all of these collections there was Staff Writer fabric, there was an abundance of an immense amount of layering, head- COMMENTARY leather as well. Saint Laurent may be pieces and jewelry. When you leave Can I forget Feb. 21 reddened with the blood of my first session of the Pakistan Legislative Assembly Feb .23, able to wear leather, but the every day the house, keep it all on. Jewelry has brothers? 1948 Dhirendranath Datta proposed that Bangla be made person may be hesitant to wear all been much more prevalent in the fash- Many citizens of Bangladesh have fought with Paki- one of the language of the assembly along with English and leather pants this coming summer. ion scene this year. The accents of stan because Bengali citizens were against speaking Urdu, Urdu, but the proposal was rejected. We are dropping our crop-tops for shine and glimmer from jewels elevate and wanted to make the language Bangla their own na- “It would’ve been unacceptable if we were to speak a longer silhouettes. an outfit. Dangling earrings and lay- tional language. Many have lost their lives on the path but Urdu because I love my language and I grew up speaking Alexander McQueen’s show left an ered necklaces are extremely popular nothing stopped them to fight. On Feb. 21 the language Bangla,” said Mohammed Ullah, resident of Waterbury, imprint of trench coats in the brain. in all these shows. movement started in Dhaka, Bangladesh. Conn. There is a recurring theme of elongated This differs from decades before “It is a proud feeling for our country (Bangladesh) and Bangla was recognized as one of the state languages of silhouettes this year. Longer tops and with the use of bracelets. Now, the language (Bangla) and we’re sure to share the pride of our Pakistan at a session of the National Assembly May 9, jackets are a very simple fix to throw only arm candy seen in the shows is a language worldwide,”said Tareq Mahmud, a citizen of 1954, and is appreciated by those who are not fluent in it. into our daily style. What isn’t so easy, designer handbag. Bangladesh, in a phone interview. “I don’t speak Bangla but it’s a lovely language,” said is the amount of Photo illustration by D. Demirel/correspondent Ekushey February (21 February) is also known as senior Shalline Ramjit. ’60s floral. We’re Shaheed Dibas (Martyrs Day) and since 2000, Ekushey On Ekushey February all Bengalis dresses in red and ditching whimsi- February is known as international mother language day. white, and people of all ages walk to visit shaheedMinar to cal and pining for “Amar sonar bangla (my golden bangla), day of Ekushey pay tribute to those who gave their lives for Bangla. a larger, brighter, February always reminds me of how proud I am to speak “I used to visit shaheedMinar with my school and place flower for 2018. Bangla, Bangla is our language and a beautiful language,” flower to honor the death of the soldiers and now I can’t do Although it can be said Kabir Hosan, 41, a citizen of Bangladesh, in a phone any of these things because I don’t get any of the opportu- striking, a pop of interview. nities here in USA,” said Miley. this pattern on a Students campaigning for the recognition of Bangla as Young men and women with artistic skill draw special blouse shouldn’t one of the state language of Pakistan were killed when motifs known in Bangla as ‘alpana’ on the roads, according be too hard to police fired upon them. Sadly, a university student, Rafiq to mtholyoke.edu. master. Uddin Ahmed, a student of Debendra College, manikganj, “I miss the days when I use to relay with my school Remember the and Abdul Jabbar, a young farmer from Gaffargaon, were and draw alpana,” said Afroja Akter, 16, now a resident of clear plastic boots killed. Abdus Salam, a bank employee, was injured in the Waterbury, Conn. everyone hated? firing and died in the hospital later, according to Ekushey February (21 February) plays an important Well they’re back. banglapedia.org. role in Bengalis awareness of their culture and national “I admire those soldiers who lost their lives for our heritage, and the background to the rise of Bengali nation- SETTING TRENDS As the author illustrates by viewing fashion trends in this Jan. 17, 2018 photo, styles, designers’ collections and entire fashion shows language,” said Kamrun Miley, 24, a resident of Water- alism. can be found online. In particular, the biggest names in fashion such as Gucci bury, Conn. “I love my mother language, I love my motherland, we and Saint Laurent opened 2018 with their Spring/Summer collections by putting According to banglapedia.org, after the departure of the all will remember the brothers who gave their lives so we together intense runway shows found on the FF Channel on YouTube. British, Bangla could be made the state language of the could speak our own language Bangla,” said Taslema Akter, new state. Shortly after the creation of Pakistan, at the 31, a citizen of Bangladesh, in a phone interview. Musicians grow File FAFSA before June 30 to see what funds you get in confidence By Isaac Smythe By Fuka Reale COMMENTARY Filling out federal aid form must be done yearly, not just once Correspondent Managing Editor COMMENTARY With the Dec. 19, 2017 Kennedy winter con- One of the most important processes of ap- your parent. The CSS profile, or College Scholarship Ser- cert coming to a close, the experience left not plying to college besides the application itself is Your parent needs their 1040 income tax re- vice, is another financial aid form required by only myself, but other students more confident in filling out the FAFSA, or Free Application For turn available and their total household income certain private schools. This is a form supported their musical abilities. Both band and choir have Student Aid. as well as individual income for the previous by College Board and accessed on come far since the start of the year, some first time performers have shown such growth. year. collegeboard.org. This form allows students to get financial aid “I know more than what I did before. (Music in the form of grants, work-study and loans from If you are filling out the FAFSA for the 2018- Although it is very similar to the FAFSA and teacher) Mr.Knecht showed me how to do things the government in order to pay for college. Al- 19 year, then tax information from 2016 is re- asks for the same information, CSS has a $16 fee right,” said Laila Shabazz, a freshman trumpeter. though the official deadline for FAFSA is June quired. You’ll also need W-2 forms, bank state- in order to send the forms to the specific col- Everyone managed to maintain their compo- 30, 2018, it was important to file as close to ments, and information about family investments, leges. sure quite well, making each performance sound October 2017 as colleges often award financial estates, stocks, and so on. In order to check which colleges require the more broad with each piece. aid on a first come first serve basis. It is important to fill out the FAFSA accu- CSS profile, you can check the requirements for “I wasn’t really worried about it. I knew it was Most state and individual schools have their rately as possible as filing false information can that individual college or visit gonna be good,” said Josue Medina, a junior trom- bonist. lead to delays in processing. However if mis- profile.collegeboard.org/profile/ppi/ own deadlines for FAFSA, so keeping tabs on Despite the confidence of the music program the dates is important, according to takes are made or if you want to add more col- participatingInstitutions.aspx. there will always be pre-concert shakes and jitters. studentaid.ed.gov. leges, the FAFSA portal allows students to log Although this process is stressful and time “I was worried about messing up. I knew my In previous years, the FAFSA application in and make changes. consuming, it is mandatory if you are looking to parts but all those eyes on me made it both terrify- opened Jan. 1, but with new changes, the appli- After the system processes the file, it will go to college. My advice is to complete it as soon ing and fun,” said Ludmila DePaula, a freshman cation could be filled out as early as Oct. 1. send you an email confirming that it went through as possible and send them to all the schools you clarinetist. How can you file FAFSA? The application and an estimate of the amount of financial aid are looking to apply. The mistakes are what make us stronger be- process is simple, but first you must make a free you are likely to receive from colleges called EFC. Once this is done, you can relax a bit and look cause there is always a way to fix them. Leading up to any concert there are always bumps in the road. Unlike college applications, filling out the for scholarships to get money that is not covered account on https://fafsa.ed.gov/, which needs your With the right guidance and support, mistakes and date of birth and social security number. FAFSA is a yearly responsibility and the amount by FAFSA and CSS. bumps become shaped correctly. FAFSA should be filled out by both you and of financial aid could vary from year to year. Good luck and be optimistic! “While our mistakes were noticeable to us, we ended up showing tremendous improvement as an Don’t take journalism... if you like being bored, not learning any skills, gaining no career opportunities, or losing out on ensemble,” said senior Sebastian Cavada, a bass scholarships and awards. Otherwise, take the class next year! Stop by 105 for more information. buitarist and music council officer. page 6, The Eagle Flyer/February 2018 Listen up seniors: read helpful advice from college students By Stephanie Velez Business Manager Labonne’s employees balance work, college plus share tips on doing well after high school

Oh Mondays! What surprise will I wish someone about school is knowing that you’re important thing for me is to put school ing freshmen: don’t let senioritis take you bring to me next? Work and col- working towards your degree and first, and thankfully I have a job that over! Trust me on this, your last year lege is possible! had told me that it’s creating a better future for yourself,” is very understanding of the schedule is also your important year. Don’t College students who work at okay if you do not said Cantoni. restraints that school presents,” said neglect the hard work you have done Labonne’s Market in Watertown, “ Domack. throughout the years because it will know what you So how nerve racking can the Conn. share their past experience and thought of college be? Deary also works with Domack, take a hold on you. Just work as hard give tips on balancing school and work want to choose for a “Not really, I’d say I got more ner- and has no problem with his job and as you do now and get to that finish to help high school seniors prepare for major or do for a vous after I graduated,” said sopho- school conflicting. So how are some line! Think about what you want to college. career right away. It more Sean Domack, who also attends of the bosses? do and if you have passion towards it, “It’s important to develop time Naugatuck Valley Community Tech- “Extremely accommodating; at the don’t let anything or anyone stop you! management skills. Working 28-32 is not worth stress- nical College. beginning of every semester my boss Lastly, don’t stress too much about hours a week and being a full time stu- ing about. It’s more Although Domack wasn’t that ner- lets me fill out a paper telling her when college applications, do your best dent is possible, but you have to handle important you have vous, Janessa Rasols, a sophomore I’m available. She never gives me any and see where it will lead you,” said your priorities first. I usually made a who said she is proudly studying trouble with it, and I’ve never had a Rasols. list of what needs to get done first and experience, so take nursing, shared how nervous she was problem with scheduling time off,” It seems as though pushing the idea work down. Having a visual guide of advantage of study- about entering the college world. said Deary. of finding out what you want to do in what I need to get done helps me man- ing abroad and “I was definitely nervous about While interviewing every college life starts so early in school. How is it age my time better,” said Lindsey college when I was in high school. The student, each gave their tips, advice possible you know by sophomore year Cantoni, a senior at Central Connecti- internships. idea of going and stepping up into a and past experiences of their college of high school if you want to be a cut State University. new world is exciting but can also be encounters. For example, if you’re lawyer or teacher? Cantoni is just one of the students nerve wrecking. I was more nervous someone who has trouble waking up “I wish someone had told me that who works at Labonne’s and goes to Lindsay Cantoni, senior about the results from my SATs and then morning classes may not be the it’s okay if you do not know what school full time. While college can be at Central Connecticut” college applications because of the ideal option. you want to choose for a major or do State University new and exciting, there are challenges universities I wanted to get into. In “Don’t take an 8 a.m. class. I’ve for a career right away. It is not worth associated with simply being a stu- the end, I was accepted to the college only ever dropped one class and it stressing about,” said Cantoni. “I’ve dent. same day can be a problem, so can of my first choice which was amaz- was because I woke up at 7 on the met many graduates who are working “The most difficult thing is keep- taking certain classes that are required ing. Hard work really pays off,” said first day of my 8 a.m. class, realized I in a job unrelated to their major. ing up with all of my classes at once. that are not in your major or degree Rasols, who attends Christian Col- made a huge mistake and dropped,” It’s more important you have experi- It gets hard when all of my classes area. lege in Pensacola, Florida. said Deary. ence, so take advantage of studying have papers due the same time period. “The most difficult part about Whether you are a full or part time Before you can even sign up for abroad and internships. Also, having The best part about college is what I school is taking and spending time on student, finding a job that accommo- that morning class, you have to be connections with the right people learn in classes that are in my major,” general/required courses and home- dates your school schedule is key. accepted into the college you are will get you far ahead in the career said sophomore Michael Deary, who work that is not specific to my major. “It’s a lot of time management, you hoping to attend. So keeping your world. Spend time to talk and make attends Naugatuck Valley Community I find that I lose motivation easily. need to be able to plan out when you’ll grades up during senior year of high connections with professors and Technical College. But it is an important step to com- have school, be at work, and when school is essential. students who are related to your ma- While multiple papers being due the pleting your degree. The best part you’ll be doing homework. I think the “Here are my tips for the incom- jor or who share similar interest.” If time, money were no object, what gift would you give? By Thomas Bishop III, Luis Leon Colon Staff Writer, Correspondent Ideas include helping out Puerto Rico, parents, homeless people

Have you ever wanted to give a present, but people are losing their lives every lition to End Homelessness does their Things happen in other countries like the you never had the money nor time? As day, which lead someone to think of annual count, 3,911 persons were hurricanes that went through the Dominican Re- Valentine’s Day approaches, and some are still the youth. homeless in Connecticut. public and Puerto Rico, places which are still cleaning up from Christmas--or paying off their “I would build a studio for kids, “If I had time and money I would devastated. credit card bills--people in Greater Waterbury that (way) they can stay off the build homes for the homeless people, “If I had the money and time I would rebuild shared their thoughts on getting the perfect gift. streets,” said Truddie Holst, a per- around the world,” said Eudalia Dauila, my brother’s house that got knocked down in “If I had the time and money, I would get sonal trainer and a Meriden resident. a factory worker and a Waterbury resi- the hurricane,’ said Santigo Colon, a factory work myself a gift, and that (gift) would be getting my The world needs homeless shel- dent. and a Waterbury resident. grandmother to be alive for a few more minutes ters; did you know that more than Instead of thinking of themselves, People are appreciative of their parents but (so) that I can tell her how much I love and ap- half a million U.S. people (564,708) some people would like to give to might not have money to get something for them. preciate her,” said Mr. Mark Esposito, a fifth are homeless, according to a 2016 organizations or groups. “I would buy my mom a house, because it is grade math and social studies teacher at Hopeville report cited by The San Francisco “If I had money and time I would a struggle being a single mother and I just feel like Elementary School. Chronicle in June? In this state, on one given give money towards the research of the cure of she would really appreciate it,” said Talia Anyala, Gang violence is getting worse each day and night, Jan. 26, 2016 when the Connecticut Coa- cancer,” said Tatyana B., a sophomore. a senior. Do students prefer unhealthy food because of cost or convenience? By Jaleesa Bellamy Eating healthy costs $1.50 more each day Managing Editor COMMENTARY Pop! Opens a bag of chips. Crunch! Goes the bite for students, especially those students walking by the of a cookie. corner store on the way to their bus stop. Are students at Kennedy gaining bad eating hab- Trying to eat healthy actually costs about $550 its throughout the school year by eating so much more per year, or $1.48 per day, according to a study junk food from being so tired? in the British Medical Journal from 2013 that was The early mornings are no joke. Waking up at 5 similar to a 2013 study from the Harvard School of a.m. really takes a toll on students. It’s too much to Public Health. Imagine the price today! wake up early, get ready, have a nutritious breakfast, Los Angeles Times author Jenn Harris, who cited and still catch the bus on time. the study, noted it included results from 27 studies in When the clock starts ticking 6:30, 6:35, 6:40 10 different countries over a period of 11 years. the bus arrives. Healthy foods were defined as fruit, vegetables, fish, School naturally starts early, so each bus has to and nuts while less healthy foods were defined as pro- come even earlier. Making it to your bus stop is cessed foods, meats and refined grains. The Harvard already a tough job, so students tend to grab the first study found eating healthy costs a family of four an things they see--which isn’t always an apple. extra $2,200 each year! Two for $1! How does that sound? It’s not like school lunch and breakfast isn’t pro- The price of chips compared to a healthy bag of vided for free, if you can wait until you get to school. apples is so much cheaper. Chips are often two for a Students might just prefer the unhealthy snacks that $1 or 50 to 25 cents a piece, making it a quicker grab they bring to enjoy, no matter what time it is. Who wants to build...teddy bears? By Irienis Perez Correspondent While cutting out your fabrics you want to make sure you pin each piece of fabric together before Do you wish about making a teddy bear? you lose any. Life management teacher Ms. Barbara Balnis “If you lose a piece of your fabric it’ll be harder explained to her students how to, and why, you work for you,” said Balnis. Mathnasium of Naugatuck Valley should pin down the teddy bear’s fabric proving If you keep your notions and materials for your that otherwise, your teddy bear can come out project all together in a bin or folder, there are more 203-757-1234 wrong, during one of her sewing lessons in room chances of your teddy bear coming out right. mathnasium.com/naugatuckvalley 123, period 5, Nov. 9, 2017. “If you don’t want your teddy bear’s left arm a 1249 West Main Street . “You don’t want your teddy bear to come different color than the right one, I suggest you Next to Dunkin Donuts and across from Starbucks apart,” said Balnis. keep your materials in a safe place,” said Balnis. The Eagle Flyer/February 2018, page 7 Area players enjoy Hartford volleyball tournament By Toni Lopez Sports Editor Winterfest allows eight passionate players to enhance skills

’Tis the vollyseason! the opportunity for eight members to fident on the first day as I got more SYMBOLIC Writer The first Winterfest Volleyball try their best and have fun on and off comfortable with the team. As the days Toni Lopez, who Tournament for the 17 (age group) se- the court competing with different went on, I felt we all learned how to penned the article lect team in the Northwest Juniors teams regionwide, in Hartford’s Con- play together as a team, yet all learned at left, stands before the giant (NWJ) volleyball girls’ club provided vention Center Jan. 13-15, 2018. what our own weaknesses and volleyball in the “Winterfest allows you to see the strengths were,” said Victoria O., a lobby of the things your team is doing well in and Nonnewaug High School sophomore. Convention Center what they need to work on. It is a A third team member discussed the in Hartford, Conn. great tournament to gauge team potential to win some tournaments. where the growth,” said coach Belen from the “I feel the team has the potential to Winterfest 17 select NWJ team. win the upcoming tournaments be- Volleyball Tourna- One member from the select team cause we have a lot of talent, and a lot ment was held Jan. 13-15, 2018. In discussed why she liked Winterfest. of girls who are really dedicated and bottom left photo, “I like the environment. It’s so big. willing to work hard at practice for us the Northwest It’s crazy to see all the competition to achieve this as a team,” said Katie Juniors’ volleyball and all the people as passionate as me Butwill, a junior at Lewis Mills High club is seen in a for the game,” said Rachel Bracco, a School. “Since we have a relationship huddle during the Wolcott High School sophomore. as a team we have the ability to outlast competition. Another team member explained people who are the same skill level as how the first tournament day went. us, but aren’t necessarily as comfort- “In the first tournament, I felt con- able on the court.” Photos by T. Lopez/staff Happy hedgehog, um, groundhog day: why 30,000 flock to see Phil By Isabella Gaspard Friday, Feb. 2 marks day when Punxsutawney newspaper editor began annual event Correspondent COMMENTARY Spring is here... or is it? prefer--holds that if a hedgehog comes out of his according to history.com. predictions, and the public accepted them as true, Feb. 2 marks the “mid-point between the hole and sees his shadow, there are six more weeks Freas took inspiration from a group of local according toarticles.nj.com. Winter Solstice and the Spring Equinox,” a.k.a. of winter to come, otherwise an early spring local hunters who would hike up to Gobbler’s Nowadays, Phil is only correct 39 percent of Groundhog Day. This holiday dates all the way arrives. That’s right. Hedgehogs. Knob, Pennsylvania to see one particular ground- the time, according to the National Climatic Data back to the 1700s. Then, it was a German holi- The Germans originally chose these little guys hog and his weather predictions. Center. However, the people love him no less. In day known as Candlemas Day. Why to predict the weather. It wasn’t until they im- The editor formally named the groundhog fact, the annual Groundhog Day ceremony on “Candlemas?” Well, on this day clergy would bless migrated to Pennsylvania that the Germans “Punxsutawney Phil, Seer of Seers, Sage of Sages, Gobbler’s Knob draws crowds of up to 30,000! and distribute candles throughout towns to changed the appointed animal to the groundhog. Prognosticator of Prognosticators and Weather Can’t make it all the way out to Punxsutawney, protect people from the dark of winter, accord- Yet still, Groundhog Day wasn’t an official holi- Prophet Extraordinary”... But for short, he goes Pennsylvania? No problem! Text “Groundhog” ing to Stormfax.com. day until Clymer Freas, the editor of the by Punxsutawney Phil, or even shorter, just Phil. to 247365 to get Phil’s yearly prediction on Tradition--or superstition, whichever you Punxsutawney Spirit newspaper, made it so, Freas would write “elaborate stories” about Phil’s Groundhog Day, according to huffpost.com. Lose weight, attend church, Journalist of 40 years shares some residents’ 2018 goals advice with newspaper class: By Jake Liquindoli make fact-checking priority Staff Writer Others: read more, get organized By Toni Lopez City residents shared their 2018 Due to raising his children and hav- Sports Editor Keep digging deeper for real news New Year’s resolutions when it was ing a busy work career, he said he still December 2017, and their goals doesn’t “really have time to go to A journalist’s job is to be honest. include being organized, attending church” but believes that if he follows Veteran journalist Mr. Steven Gaynes visited Kennedy to offer writing church and losing weight. through with his resolution, he will advice, plus talk about his background and some highlights of his career as a “Mine is to be more organized and become a better person because “a writer, while also discussing his weekly New Fairfield Citizen newspaper to not procrastinate,” said Sara Way, spiritual person is a better person.” DETERMINED City resident Mr. Francis column ‘In The Suburbs’ plus his daily work at the Bridge Academy (a charter a SOAR freshman. Another city resident wants to fo- Liquindoli, seen here during Thanks- school) in Bridgeport, Conn. during period five journalism class Friday, Jan. 26, Due to the challenging academic cus on his health. giving, shared that his New Year’s 2018. program she’s in, Way said she “has “My New Year’s resolution is to resolution for 2018 is to lose weight. “Take the risk at being honest,” said Gaynes, who offered much advice to no time to have fun and do the things lose 20 pounds,” said Francis Photo by J. Liquindoli/staff students who work on The Eagle Flyer newspaper. (she) loves to do” while another per- Liquindoli, an amputee. outside of Waterbury plan to do for When Gaynes was sharing his aspects of being honest he emphasized how son focuses on his religion. Since he has one leg, Francis New Year’s resolutions? fact-checking actually changes the writing of factual evidence. “My New Year’s resolution is to Liquindoli, who is 78, said he needs to “To read more books,” according “Dig a little bit and find out something personal,” said Gaynes, of any topic go to church more often,” said Robert lose weight to be more comfortable. to happynewyear-2018.org., a website a journalist researches. Liquindoli, a Waterbury resident. He had “better upper body strength that provides popular resolutions. Finding out something personal can be hard, but at least if you try to get a Liquindoli, a devout Christian, previously (and) wants to be alive as More specifically, this website men- actual quote from someone it can make your story even better, as well as real, said his resolution is important to him long as possible.” He said he believes tioned a New Year’s resolution for instead of relying on what someone else has said. because he is “thankful for the things if he “lost the weight” he “would be people who are struggling academically “A journalist’s (most) important thing to do is to be factual and honest, and in his life” and that he “has God to able to follow through with it.” could be to “read more books” and it not bring up fake news,” said Gaynes, who also created a current events quiz thank for them.” What do groups or organizations “encourages others to do the same.” for students and urged them to stay aware of local and national current events.

and shopping, and people nervous that they won’t Forget chocolates, flowers... what gifts could help others? like their gift.” By Vivian Bunker New Fairfield, Conn. work really hard all the time so they deserve According to psychology.com, Adrian Staff Writer That was Fields’ dream Christmas present, something too.” Furnham, a professor of psychology at Univer- but not only to use for himself. Something else she’d like to have? sity College London and the Norwegian Busi- With Christmas just past and Valentine’s Day “I could invite friends over whenever I want “A laptop,” said Santos. “Now that I’m in ness School, believes people today give gifts that 2018 right around the corner, some people are to play some basketball,” said Fields, “and bas- high school, there’s a lot of work, and projects are more specific to the recipient. hunting down the perfect gift for family and ketball is really fun.” and stuff that require typing essays or just using “What essentially makes a gift special,” said friends, but what if they went beyond the aver- In addition, Fields was also asking for some- the basic internet and I don’t have a computer or Furnham, “is the ability of the giver to really age gift to deliver someone what they desire most: thing a bit more acquirable for Christmas as well. laptop, so it’s difficult.” understand the recipient--to show their close read- their dream present, such as a healthy brother, “(A) blender,” said Fields “because I can make During holidays like Valentine’s Day, many ing of, and attention to, the hopes and desires of which is freshman Kevin Demiraj’s dream. smoothies.” look forward to receiving gifts that make life bet- others.” “If I could get anything that makes him feel Still, in the days leading up to Christmas ter or easier, but some find the act of giving gifts What makes a gift more preferred? Money or better, it would be a Christmas miracle,” said Fields wouldn’t let his dream present slip away even more enjoyable then getting them. thought? Demiraj. so easy, making it a point to… “Giving presents is more enjoyable to me “Careful studies by American sociologists and Demiraj’s brother, Orges Demiraj, is 18 years “Work hard and get a good job to afford it,” because it’s nice seeing someone happy and ex- published in consumer journals have shown no old and has cerebral palsy. said Fields. cited when they’re opening presents,” said Santos. relationship between the cost of a gift and the “He can’t really speak to people or talk,” Janaya Santos, a freshman at Kennedy, would Some say gift giving is an act of appreciation. extent to which it is liked or preferred,” said said Demiraj, who knew this is what he wanted also work hard, but for a different dream present. “When I give presents to my parents, I like to Furnham. “The best predictor of how much a as the ideal gift for some time: “My dream Christmas present would be to see them happy,” said Demiraj. “I feel like it’s a gift is appreciated is the amount of time, mental “Ever since I was five years old, when I first have enough money to move out of Waterbury, good way to appreciate other people.” and physical effort put into choosing, making or knew about it or understood it,” said Demiraj. to somewhere nice, with a big house, and a lot of And when receiving gifts, a present isn’t the preparing it.” Other presents on his wish list include soc- land,” said Santos, “and to be able to give money most important thing. So, between giving dream or realistic gifts, cer items because Demiraj is a huge soccer fan. to my parents and family.” “(It’s) more about the thought, than the how should people know which is more special? “Anything related to soccer would be fine Santos wants to explore different things in present,” said Fields. “Ideal gifts are those which one still treasures like a soccer ball, cleats, anything,” said Demiraj. life, but wants to support her family as well. But does the act of gift giving go too far? after many years,” said Furnham. “The perfect He is not alone seeking sports related items. “I’ve always lived in Waterbury and I want “It’s a very nice tradition, but sometimes, in gift is wanted, needed, deserved, and appreci- “(An) indoor basketball court,” said Nathaniel to go somewhere new and get new experiences,” America, it goes too far,” said Fields. “(It) cre- ated. It has to be chosen very thoughtfully and Fields, a senior at New Fairfield High School, in said Santos, “and also, my parents and family ates a lot of stress now a days with Black Friday, carefully.” Sports The Eagle Flyer/February 2018, page 8 48 miles in four days? Sideravages race at Disney By Fuka Reale Managing Editor Family competes in consecutive 5k, 10k, half then full marathon

Racing for days in the land of magic Sideravage’s nephew Kyle Beynor, said Sideravage. actual run,” said and imagination. who now has a career as a tennis pro- The Sideravages have run the mara- Sideravage. Marybeth Sideravage, attendance fessional in South Carolina, previously thon at Disney multiple times, but it Sideravage has run counselor at Kennedy, and her family attended Woodland High School in all began when Mr. Sideravage began 5ks in Connecticut and traveled to Disney World in Orlando, Connecticut and won NVLs in tennis running races in Connecticut and is working to complete Florida to complete the Dopey Chal- his senior and junior year. heard about the challenges at Disney. the 169 challenge run, lenge, consisting of a four-day race lead- “Kyle didn’t have to train as hard “He really wanted to get all the which is a competition ing up to a full marathon from Thurs- as the rest of them. He wanted to get medals, and if you complete all four to run 169 5k races in day, Jan. 3 to Sunday, Jan. 7, 2018. all the medals, which is given for races, you get six medals all together different towns in “This trip was so magical because I every race and the challenges,” said for each race and one for each chal- Connecticut. got to share the experience with my Sideravage. lenge,’ said Sideravage. “This trip meant a husband and daughters. I am so proud The separate challenges include the Disney has a Pasta in the Park lot because this is the of them for being able to do this,” said Goofy challenge which is the half mara- Party held every night from Thurs- last time my husband Sideravage. thon and full marathon, and the Dopey day to Saturday where runners carb is going to run the mara- This year was the 5th anniversary Challenge, which is in total 48 miles, up on pasta and dine with their thon at Disney. There ofthe Dopey Challenge: a 5k on Thurs- according to www.rundisney.com. favorite characters, according to might be half mara- day, 10k on Friday, half marathon on “What was most challenging was blog.wdwinfo.com. thons for my daugh- Saturday, and a full marathon on that we all had to get up at 3 a.m. Unlike most Disney trips, the ters in the future,” said All photos courtesy of M. Sideravage Sunday. The Disney Marathon cel- because the races start at 5 a.m. when Sideravages went to run the races so Sideravage. “You won’t truly understand run- ebrated its 25th anniversary this year, the parks are closed,” said Sideravage. they did not have time to explore the Kyle ran the marathon in five ning and the physical endurance and according to www.rundisney.com/ All races take place within Disney’s parks as much. hours and Elizabeth and Mr. mental toughness that is necessary disneyworld-marathon/. property: the 5k runs through Epcot, “Because we woke up early, and Sideravage ran the full marathon in to do these races unless you are a “Although I didn’t run these races, the 10k is on a highway near Epcot, everyone ran so much, we were all under seven hours. runner,” said Sideravage. it was still amazing to witness the hard the half marathon starts in Epcot and too tired to go to the parks. They work my family put into these races, goes through Magic Kingdom, and the mostly wanted to relax and prepare it is no easy feat,” said Sideravage. full marathon goes through all four for the next race for the next day,” Sideravage went on the trip with parks. said Sideravage. her husband, “My daugh- There are 27,000 runners who two daughters ter Elizabeth, participate in the marathon each year. Elizabeth and husband, and The application to sign up for the Lauren, her Kyle did the marathon and challenges begin in nephew Kyle, Dopey Chal- April and it is $510 to participate in her two sisters, lenge, while my the Dopey Challenge per person, ac- and her brother- other daughter cording to www.rundisney.com. in-law. Lauren, my sis- “These races are so magical because “To run a ters and brother- there are characters and bands all along marathon, you in-law ran the the course. There are so many people have to train half marathon,” cheering that it distracts from the many months in advance. My INSPIRATIONAL Elizabeth Sideravage and her father, at family began right and above, completed Disney’s Dopey Challenge of training in July four races in four days: a 5k, 10k, half then full marathon. and up until the races, they ran 20 miles in a day,” said Sideravage.

MICKEY’S MAGICAL RUNNERS The family of attendance counselor Marybeth Sideravage, including her husband, two daughers, nephew, sisters, and brother-in-law, participated in various races at Walt Disney World Thursday, Jan. 3 to Sunday, Jan. 7, 2018. Pictured above is nephew Kyle Beynor, who completed every race over the course of four days to earn all the Disney medals. In photo on right, Beynor, Mr. Sideravage and Elizabeth Sideravage enjoy a meal at Disney. Mrs. Sideravage said her family began training in July 2017 and up until the races, ran 20 miles in a day. 2018 was the 5th anniversary of the Dopey Challenge, which featured a 5k on Thursday, 10k on Friday, half marathon on Saturday, and full marathon on Sunday.

Some freshmen find pep rally focused on upperclassmen Winter sports By Jazmin Estrella, Evalissa Caban First-year students still learning concept of pep rally tradition Staff Writer, Correspondent COMMENTARY continue Everyone gathered, but were we really in it While the freshmen all had different impres- (The pep rally) was Compiled by staff reports together? sions of the occasion, the majority of them en- not important at all Grades 9-12 gathered in the main gymnasium joyed it. For updates on school sports, including: at Kennedy to acknowledge the end of the fall “I liked how we all came together to celebrate “because the activities sports season at the traditional pre-Thanksgiv- the different sports, it was nice,” said Kelsey were not geared toward *girls’ basketball ing Day pep rally, including the ‘pieing’ of teach- Darocha. freshmen. It’s more varsity, jv and freshmen ers that raised money for charity but freshmen Pep rallies are still a new concept to fresh- *boys’ basketball had a different take on it, Wednesday, Nov. 22, men, so some were unaware of what it was ex- towards seniors and varsity, jv and freshmen 2017. actly until it happened. juniors. *boys’ swimming “I think the seniors cheered the loudest at the “I didn’t even know what a pep rally was Jade Domesuzki, *girls’ indoor track freshman pep rally,” said Janaya Santos, a freshmen. until that day; until that day, I thought it was a *boys’ indoor track The seniors were the key aspect of pep rally. pet shop,” said Daquan Molina. the pep rally should take place more often. *cheerleading Throughout the whole event, one could tell how The pep rally was the perfect opportunity to “It should be done” at least twice a year. It gets the efforts were mostly concentrated on seniors. spread love and encourage others. Something the all the students excited,” said Nixaira Hendia. visit the Kennedy High School page Due to this, some freshmen didn’t find it very freshmen could do was cheer on their favorite Regarding the pep rally’s role in the lives of at waterbury.k12.ct.us and click important. sports or friends. freshmen, in order to get a new perspective, who on the ‘Sports’ link. “(It was) not important at all because the “I went to the pep rally and I cheered for my else could you ask but the adults who partici- You can also sign up for updates on activities were not geared toward freshmen. It’s brother, he’s on the football team,” said Luz pated in it? After being part of the occasion for sports schedules by visiting the above more towards seniors and juniors,” said Jade Rivera. many years, teachers in particular might have an page, then clicking the link for ‘Updates.’ Domesuzki. Along with the fact that not much attention understanding of how it impacts freshmen or Be sure to follow the instructions for email, Despite the fact that not many freshmen par- was paid to the freshmen, they don’t get to ex- students as they advance grade wise. text or Twitter updates. ticipated, some would jump at the opportunity perience the event often which allows its impor- “I think it’s a little intimidating but it’s a tra- For more information, visit Kennedy’s to be a part of it. tance to fade over the years. For it to be signifi- dition and it’s all in fun. You’ll look forward to it Facebook page or stats.ciacsports.com and “I would do it, it seems fun,” said cant to the students, in particular for freshmen when you’re a senior,” said math teacher Mrs. listen to daily school announcements. Domesuzki. as they progress through their high school years, Rothen.