NORTHWEST PASSAGES VOLUME XLV Northwest Catholic, 29 Wampanoag Drive, West Hartford, Connecticut 06117 June 2008 Spalluto, Battersby Named Valedictorian and Salutatorian Class of ‘08 By John Shevchuk & Kate we are extremely proud of what especially math. Mrs. Metzler, his she specifically credits her parents friends and family are equally Williamson they have achieved.” AP Calculus teacher, says “His and two sisters for supporting proud of his accomplishments as Carolyn enrolled at Northwest outstanding mathematical ability her over the last four years. “My salutatorian though, and his What do Kevin Spacey, W.E. after completing middle school at is unusual, even in a class of AP parents, especially, have always parents, Patrick and Ann Marie Dubois, and Weird Al all have in St. Timothy’s and like all Calculus students.” Caleb is not supported everything I do 100%. Battersby, are “extremely happy common? For the most part, freshmen, had to They never put that Caleb has earned this absolutely nothing. However, they make the transition pressure on me to honor.” were all valedictorian of their to high school and its succeed academically, The most unique quality of this high school class. The titles of higher academic but always wanted me year’s valedictorian and valedictorian and salutatorian are demands. As time to do whatever made salutatorian is their involvement the two most prestigious titles passed, Carolyn grew me happiest.” in school and community awarded in at the high school close to many new Like the rest of the activities. “Carolyn and Caleb level. Northwest Catholic is people and looking Northwest have distinguished themselves by proud to announce that the back she believes she community, Carolyn’s being involved in a wide range of valedictorian for the Class of “would not have parents, Joe and Ellen school and community activities,” 2008 is Carolyn Spalluto and the maintained sanity” Spalluto, are declares Mrs. Williamson, who salutatorian is Caleb Battersby. without them. She is extremely proud of also adds, “Their calm and The student body was thrilled to known by her their daughter, pleasant demeanors seem to mask learn that Carolyn and Caleb had teachers and peers to “Carolyn has worked the fact that they are always so earned such honors after the have an incredible very hard and busy.” Carolyn was often found Ascension Thursday Mass on work ethic and Madelyn Filomeno challenged herself after school working hard as an April 30. The announcement had impeccable Salutatorian Caleb Battersby and Valedictorian Carolyn every step of the editor for NOWECA, the been highly anticipated by the organizational skills. Spalluto proudly share their accomplishment together. way.” They also yearbook; an editor on the staff senior class, as the valedictorian Mrs. Rousseau has recognize the of the school newspaper, and salutatorian, in many ways, taught Carolyn French all four just known at school for his math incredible academic caliber of the Northwest Passages; and a lawyer represent the class as a whole. years of high school and believes, skills though, as Mrs. Metzler Class of 2008, saying, “This for the Mock Trial team. Her Valedictorian and salutatorian “Carolyn is much more than adds, “The first thing that comes honor is significant especially this volunteer work teaching CCD to are titles bestowed upon the two ‘book-smart’.” Mrs. Rousseau to mind when I think of Caleb is year because there are so many children has also been very graduating seniors with the also adds that, “She is keenly the smiling face of a confident graduates who have worked important to her over the last highest GPAs, valedictorian being perceptive about the world young man.” equally as hard and are deserving four years. Caleb has been busy highest. Principal Margaret around her and to the needs of Both Carolyn and Caleb have of recognition.” Caleb shares the outside of the classroom as well, Williamson is quick to others.” accomplished so much because of same sentiment with Carolyn playing the euphonium in the Jazz compliment both Carolyn and Caleb came to Northwest after the support from their friends recognizing that “my parents Band. He also spends time Caleb saying, “These two graduating from St. Gabriel’s in and family. Carolyn admits that have always encouraged me,” but volunteering at Hartford students have excelled in their Windsor. For the past four years she “could not have survived high Caleb admits he tries to be “self- studies in every possible way and he has excelled in each subject but school without her friends,” but reliant” as much as possible. His continued on page 3 “Anything Goes” When Dramateurs Perform Mock Trial Exceeds Past Years By Emily Schwartz the play even began as audience roles, the ensemble, the dancers, By Rosa Park Keating-McKeon. Senior Stacie members anticipated the show, to the tech crew, and the pit Provencher also added, “We had By 7:00 P.M. on Friday, April 4th, intermission, and finally to the orchestra all came together to For the first time in Northwest’s a lot of enthusiasm, especially Northwest was already teeming finale as they applauded the form one phenomenal history, the Mock Trial team since we had a really fun case this with students, family, friends, and Broadway-worthy performances production. Many supporting achieved commendable success on year.” Speaking of “the case,” the faculty, all waiting anxiously for with a standing ovation. Needless roles added to the depth of the April 28th and 29th, prevailing in Mock Trial team this year had to the doors to open to the Rice to say, “Anything Goes” was a play, including laugh-out-loud the playoffs and even the quarter- execute a court case involving Auditorium. Nobody could wait huge success. One reason why the performances by Nathan Hunter finals against other high schools murder. Surprisingly, such a to see Northwest’s 2008 spring musical was so successful was who played Sir Evelyn and Sacha within the Middletown region. heinous offense was committed musical performance of Cole because of the wonderful cast, led Brooks who acted as Moonface Such an accomplishment is by a man of law—lawyer Casey Porter’s acclaimed, “Anything by seniors Chris Brown and Martin. These were only two of noteworthy to the team, for the Nefflen—upon another lawyer, Goes.” “Anything Goes” is a Grace Andruszkiewicz. Grace and several roles that provided much practice of law is generally Alex Day. Coincidentally, the hilarious and fast-paced show Chris played the leading roles of comic relief throughout the play, considered difficult due to the crime occurred shortly after that traces the misadventures of Reno Sweeney and Billy Crocker leaving the audience in stitches. fact that one must possess a firm Casey Nefflen’s loss in a case to the six lead characters on the And how could you not laugh knowledge of the laws and apply Alex Day, which devastated luxury ocean liner, U.S.S. at the special guest this knowledge into a real life Nefflen. According to the American. The adventure starts appearances by our very own situation. To gain this familiarity evidence, Nefflen seemed to have with an awkward reunion Mrs. Patti Juda and Ms. Joan involves formations, revisions, murdered Alex Day with cruel between once-lovers debutante Keating-McKeon as sailors amendments, and memorizations intent, stabbing the victim seven Hope Harcourt and “broken- during Act II of the play! The of potential questions, responses, times in hopes of ridding the down broker” Billy Crocker, who exciting dance numbers, and opening and closing earth of such a persistent rival. had spent a romantic evening choreographed by Miss Kate statements—all of which cost Thus, the prosecution team together a few months before. Morran also greatly enhanced tremendous amount of time and claimed that the act was executed Unfortunately, complications the musical, not to mention effort for each contributor to the in a malicious, knowing way. arise through Hope’s financially the amazing and monstrous team. However, the team However, the defense team argued fortuitous engagement to the set, which was one of the surpassed all these obstacles, that Nefflen’s crime might not clueless but chipper Sir Evelyn largest sets ever to be featured especially because of the immense have had a definite intent; perhaps Oakleigh. With the help of his in a Northwest production. commitment, time, and effort of friends Reno Sweeney, the Every aspect of the event was the seniors. “This is the first year continued on page 3

smoldering evangelist-turned- Mrs. Michelle Murphy a success: Grace we had such strong senior nightclub singer, and Moonface Grace Andruszkiewicz and Nathan Andruszkiewicz summed it all leadership,” said Ms. Keating- Martin, the “threatening” Hunter strut their stuff as Reno up saying, “The show was McKeon, supervisor of the Mock gangster disguised as a preacher, Sweeney and Sir Evelyn. great, the set was great, the Trial team, “They all had an INSIDE this Issue... Billy sets about to ruin the music, the crew, the direction innate sense to do what they engagement and win back his in “Anything Goes,” lighting up and choreography, and of course needed to do to successfully love. A riotous and tumultuous the stage with their talent. While it the cast, were all great.” Everyone present their respective cases.” NWC visits the series of events ensues, took a lot of work to prepare for agrees that this is true, making This year, eight seniors were part Pope...Page 3 concluding with an unexpected the production, the performances “Anything Goes” a truly of the Mock Trial team, who all but joyous denouement for all of all of the cast members made it memorable Northwest Catholic underwent three to four years of involved. evident that the musical was also accomplishment. Grace spoke experience in understanding the H.I.L.L. goes to The Dramateurs, led by Mrs. Sara a lot of fun! Chris Brown for all of the seniors who were process of an ideal trial. These Europe...Page 4 Avery, put a ton of effort into remarked, “‘Anything Goes’ was involved with the play when she “experts” include Stacie preparing for this fantastic the best possible way I could have noted how lucky she feels to have Provencher, Michael Lathrop, PROM...Page 6-7 production, and it was clear from spent my last year as a finished her high school career Carolyn Spalluto, Adam the audience’s reaction to the play Dramateur. It was the most fun with this show. “I couldn’t have Mortillaro, Keating McKeon, that all of their hard work had I’ve had in a while and I will asked for a better ending,” says Anna Szczubelek, Judith Appah, Senior Surveys...Page 8 paid off. The great enthusiasm really miss being able to be up on Grace. Congratulations to and Amanda Perrotti. “It was exuded by all of the audience stage at Northwest.” everyone involved with “Anything such a wonderful year…I could Unrest in China...Page 10 members seemed to grow The entire cast, consisting of Goes;” it was altogether an sit back and let all the seniors throughout the event from before these two leads, many supporting unforgettable show! take charge,” commented Ms. Page 2 Northwest Catholic June 2008 COMMENTARY LETTER FROM THE DESK OF THE PRESIDENT “Joy is a net of love by which you can Mitsch, Margaret Molloy and young man. Hearing snippets of we do to create a climate where you large part of herself behind. As an catch souls.” - Mother Theresa others) turned out to watch your youthful conversations, as you can excel academically, athletically, upperclassman, she has assumed spectacular performances by our navigate through the modern dating creatively, socially and spiritually. leadership roles on athletic teams In the late afternoon of Friday, jazz band and choir. John Mitsch scene, brings me joy. Certainly, there are defined and served as a Freshman Contact. May 9, a handful of seniors laid down a face melting solo on One of the projects that has kept me structures in place that help us gathered outside my office door to his guitar. Scat-man Chris Brown busy this year is the development of create a healthy environment that discuss plans for the senior prom. had everyone toe-tappin’ during a campus-wide master plan. Mrs. allows young people to learn. But A few moments later, they had his performance and hootin-and- Williamson, Mr. Cusson and Mr. the structures – Masses, retreats, formed themselves into a dance hollerin for an encore. The night Callahan (ext. 111 – how did he get social service projects, the dress line and began to practice a of superb entertainment brought that number?) have been meeting code, extra help sessions, synchronized dance routine that me great joy. with architects who are helping us opportunities for sports and the they were anxious to unveil on If you have not heard, my design a comprehensive facilities arts, grandma working the register prom night. Brandon Marshall, assistant, Ms Huston, is an official plan that meets your many needs in the cafeteria (to name a few) – Patrice Hubert, Josh Garcia, Judith judge at Miss America beauty and the needs of our faculty. are only part of what occurs here. Appah went through the motions pageants throughout Connecticut. Following a meeting with an You, as students, create a unique of their routine coaching one Consequently, she is the arbiter of architect, I stepped out of my office climate that affects us, the adults. another with “kick, kick, ball fashionable dress — just ask Zack into the reception area and almost You also create your own social change” and “musta been a typo, Omichinski or Greg Desmaris – stepped onto Elena Washington ’08 environment that honors and

typo, typo”. The fun they were two young men who have set the who was stretched out on the carpet respects each other. One senior Passages Archives having, the surprise they were standard for sartorial splendor at staring at the architect’s aerial photo told me she did everything possible planning, along with their peals of Northwest Catholic (Greg’s of our campus. Seeing a student her freshman year to make her She models genuine concern for laughter brought me great joy. French cuff shirts bring me joy). comfortably resting on the carpet, parents’ life miserable because she other students with a spirit of At Northwest Catholic’s first On any given day, you may find enthralled with the possibilities of did not want to be here. Before the enthusiasm for Northwest Catholic annual Jazz Cabaret Night, Judith Ms Huston dispensing advice to our future campus, brings me joy. end of her first semester, our and life that is nothing but Appah, Nick Balkun, Jasmine young women about a style or In my conversations with students, school community began to creep contagious. You – the students we Clayton, Shannon Fitzpatrick, color of dress that would be some of you have remarked how into her very being and a sense of are pleased to serve - make this Tito Gautier, Taylor Knortz, suitable for a special occasion. She Northwest Catholic makes you feel belonging began to take hold of school a great place to learn and, Brandon Marshall and alumni also offers advice on dating and at home. How does this occur? her. As the days wind down to dare I say, have fun. This, too, from the Class of ’07 (Marybeth can even be found coaching a There are a multitude of things that graduation, she will be leaving a brings me joy. LETTER FROM THE EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

In September, June 4th, 2008 of Northwest Passages and I am all remember the Starbucks runs, Mr. Shugrue taught us or the seemed light years away. For me, it certain that it will be printed for nights in the student section, definition Mrs. Murphy made us meant another four editions of another forty five years. conversations on the senior patio, memorize. We will remember the this paper: I did not know if I Now that another four editions and all the other important unscripted moments. Staff could handle it. Being on this have been added to the archives memories from senior year. On June 4th we will step out of St. staff and creating a school and the Class of 2008 has Many seniors are in a rush to Joseph’s Cathedral and into the Editor in Chief newspaper that students actually finished its tenure in these halls, graduate and have not really unknown. This is scary because Kate Williamson look forward to receiving in we must stop and ask ourselves: thought about how sad it will be we cannot predict what the future homeroom is one of my Where did those days, from to leave this familiar place and all holds, yet exciting because we can Editorial Staff accomplishments I am most September until now, go? Surely their friends. The moments of look forward to a new beginning. Jessica DiFrancesco proud of. My name may be under our first answers are to be camaraderie, when Mr. Garr But I have one wish for my fellow Nikki Milewski the heading “Editor in Chief” but expected: homework, college interrupts your class or Mrs. classmates: that the memories Michael Murray that in no way means that I have applications, sports practices, AP Metzler hands out another packet, created here will always be Hannah Pelton alone produced this paper. I wish preparation, meetings, and so when Mr. Callahan makes the cherished and that the friendships Carolyn Spalluto to thank my editors and my staff on. These are the things that “dance” announcement or when forged here at NWC will be members for their dedication. I have consumed our lives this Grandma teases you and your maintained. Contributing Editors also wish to thank the countless year. However, I hope that this friends, are what you can laugh So while graduation is a fun time Kristen Bachteler people over the years who have year has been so much more for about when high school is over. and we are all excited about next Sam Frasco contributed to the paper, in many each and every senior. I hope These are the intangible moments year, take these memories with ways, shapes, and forms. Truly, that along with all those required in high school that make it so you forever, so that forever in Staff Writers this is a paper the entire chores and tasks, bonds have great. your heart you will be an Indian Michael Auletta community contributes to and been strengthened, laughs have In forty years, we will come back and can remember all the fun Nicole Boucher can call their own. This year been had, and fond memories to Northwest for a reunion, and times you had at 29 Wampanoag Sydney Brown Julie Cleary marks the forty fifth anniversary have been made. I hope you will we will not remember the formula Drive. Jaclyn Diaz Jessica Di Francesco Sam Frasco Maura Graham COMMENTARY Caitlin Kearns Lauren Kent I am a Millennial. Most likely, you Millennials are graduating college which we live. According to Peter work. Employers argue that Mike Lathrop are a Millennial, too. The media is drowning in debt. They face job Sheahan from “Generation Y: Millennials need constant coddling Keelan Ledwidge calling us “Generation Y,” and if options with little to no benefits. Thriving and Surviving with and throw a tantrum if they do not Maddie Livingston Adam Mortillaro you were born between 1980 and As a result, they must rely on Generation Y at Work,” Millennials receive proper recognition for their Rosa Park 1995, you can be proud to call credit cards to keep them afloat. “know the way things go down and work. Wall Street Journal’s Jeffrey Hannah Pelton yourself a member of this new Millennials are sick of hearing that are no longer naïve about the Zaslow blames Millennials’ Emily Schwartz cohort. As Millennials are entering the government can do nothing to workings of the world and the obsession with praise, of course, on John Shevchuk the workforce and beginning to help them survive. The political intentions of businesses and other every kid’s favorite neighbor—Mr. Sarah White John Whiting assume more influential roles in the orientation of the Millennial organizations.” We are well Rogers. Zaslow argues that Mr. Kate Williamson world, we are raking in mixed generation is important in educated and technologically savvy. Rogers’ repeated reminder to his reviews. We are accused of being considering another one of our Because we have been forced to three-year-old viewers that they Contributing Photographers “narcissistic praise hounds” who “firsts”: we are the first group to grow up in a fast-paced world, we were special is the reason why Madelyn Filomeno need constant coddling and will come of voting age in the can adapt quickly to new situations, Millennials thrive on praise. Mr. Garr & Yearbook Staff Mrs. Gillespie not take no for answer. Well, I’m a millennium. The 80 to 95 million making us more productive. Thanks a lot, Mr. Rogers. We can Keating McKeon tough girl. Bring on the criticism, young people who make up the Finally, the round-the-clock nature also blame Little League. Nikki Milewski because the world needs our Millennial generation represent a of the world in which we have been Apparently those trophies “for Mrs. Michelle Murphy generation. huge number of votes. 3.5 million raised has taught us how to participation” have had irrevocably Cara Oleasz The Millennials are a generation of first-time voters are expected to embrace change. Millennials negative effects on “Generation Y.” www.rookiedriver.net Kate Schuppe “firsts.” We will be the first visit the polls this November. The challenge traditions, tell it like it is, Call me a praise hound, but Mrs. Williamson generation to do less well 2008 Presidential Election could be and ask the question “Why?” recognition is a good thing. The economically than our parents. It the first ever to be determined by Millennials are resolute, almost to a Millennial members of the Class of Advisor is no wonder that, with gas at four voters under age 30. If no one fault…or as some contend, to a 2008 deserve commendation for Mrs. Jennifer Montoney dollars per gallon, economic else, Barack Obama, Hillary definite fault. their accomplishments. As they uncertainty has affected our Clinton, and John McCain think Some employers criticize Millennials’ graduate high school and move on Northwest Passages political views. Horrible job we are important. habit of challenging traditions. to future endeavors, they can Northwest Catholic High School prospects, low rates of health The greatest contributions from They say that Millennials approach happily place their diplomas next 29 Wampanoag Drive insurance coverage, and high levels Millennials are occurring at the business in new, revolutionary ways to those proudly displayed Little West Hartford, CT 06117 of debt have left us with the workplace. We are the first and call it quits when their way is League trophies on their bedroom Phone: (860) 236-4221 impression that a conservative generation to grow up with the not the way. Employers call shelves. Even if the praise does go Fax: (860) 586-0911 government is not getting the job Internet. Our reliance on the Millennials selfish and claim that to their heads, these Millennials are * Editor’s Note: Opinions expressed in Northwest done. As a result, Millennials are worldwide web, Facebook, and they always put their interests first. going to change the way our world Passages are not necessarily generally progressive, even more so Instant Messenger have made us Another criticism of Millennials is works. those of the editorial staff than previous young generations. more informed about the world in their need to be praised for their June 2008 Northwest Catholic Page 3 NEWS Spalluto and Battersby Excel in All Areas of Life NWC Students Visit Pope in NYC that giving a speech at graduation Both students set location as a By Hannah Pelton courage, and vocation. Hearing continued from page 1 is “a lot of pressure!” priority when deciding between the words, spoken with a German Hospital, giving him a head start Both students will continue their colleges as they did not want to Pilgrimage. When you hear this accent that was still in the field of biology, which education in the fall by attending be too far from home, or too word, you may think of faithful understandable, was a moving Caleb plans on studying. two of the most prestigious close. Caleb’s interest lies in the religious walking miles, crawling experience. Because the rally was In December 2006, both Carolyn sciences, and Boston on their knees, or even coming to designed for youth, many of the and Caleb were inducted in the College’s science Plymouth Rock on the comments were addressed to National Honor Society here at programs were part of Mayflower. On Saturday, April “Young People!” Knowing that Northwest. Membership in the what drove him to 19, however, a group of students, the pope loves us, prays for us, faculty, and staff from Northwest and has high hopes for us was NHS is based on four areas of choose the school. Catholic truly experienced a life-changing. The pope’s main evaluation: Scholarship, Even though many pilgrimage on their trip Leadership, Service, and college students go to see Pope Benedict XVI Character. This year, Carolyn and into college undecided Caleb both took their roles in this at St. Joseph’s Seminary or often change after in Yonkers, New York. prestigious organization to a new their first year, Caleb level as officers. Caleb is the vice- Although the hopes to have a career transportation troubles president, and moderator Mrs. related to biology. He discouraged some Juda describes him as “the quiet is also excited about members of the group, leader whom you can always rely the college experience those that prevailed had on to help out.” Carolyn earned in general and being an experience they will the position of secretary and Mrs. able to “meet a whole never forget. Juda recognizes her as the new set of people.” Due to a lack of Madelyn Filomeno “strong, competent leader who Meanwhile at communication within Caleb Battersby Williamson Mrs. excels in and out of the Amherst, Carolyn will the Archdiocese of New The Pope smiles and waves to the crowd classroom.” York, buses were never schools in the United States, that experiment with economics and as he arrives in his Popemobile. The most important or at least are coincidentally both in other classes to scope out her sent to many locations in public duty of the options and decide her own Connecticut. It was several hours message was that the Catholic valedictorian and career path. The “Open before this problem was Church is still a vehicle of salutatorian is giving a Curriculum” aspect of Amherst discovered, and a the group support for modern teenagers. speech at Graduation. This College helped Carolyn make her ended up spending six hours in The support of the Church can the Northwest parking lot give courage to combat injustice June 4th, all of Carolyn decision to attend the school. waiting for a bus to arrive. The in the world, and staying true to and Caleb’s public speaking This idea is very unique in that pilgrims then traveled to Yonkers your faith can help you resist the skills will be put to the test. the school does not require its for the Rally for Youth and temptations of the modern Giving a speech to two students to take certain classes in thousand people can be Seminarians. Soon after the culture. The pope shattered many order to graduate, giving students group arrived, Kelly Clarkson preconceived notions of himself very nerve-wracking; the ability to focus on what they however Carolyn is more performed three songs, including and presented a loving, intelligent enjoy and what is most necessary a spiritual and two of her hits, face to American youth. worried about writing her for their careers after college. Walk Away and speech. She has at least Carolyn and Caleb will most Since U Been three rules, which many likely not be as well-known as Gone. Many of the people have helped her Kevin Spacey or W.E. Dubois, students, establish. She is trying her but they will surely succeed in including Claire best to “keep the speech their respective paths. These two Gostyla, were funny and short, refrain students have earned their titles as almost as excited from using clichés, and valedictorian and salutatorian to see Clarkson abstain from quoting and deserve every bit of praise perform as they famous philosophers.” In and congratulations for their were to see the contrast to Carolyn, Caleb academic efforts in high school. pope. After the is more anxious about Madelyn Filomeno performance, the The Northwest community Williamson Mrs. giving his salutatory Carolyn Spalluto wishes both Carolyn and Caleb bishops, Despite the difficulties in transportation, the address than about writing the best of luck in the future and archbishops, and students had a moving and inspiring time. it, as he admits, “I am nervous Massachusetts. Carolyn will again congratulates them on cardinals began to arrive. Excitement about it.” Caleb would probably attend Amherst College and being named valedictorian and filled the air, as everyone knew Following the Pope’s sermon, agree with Carolyn’s sentiment Caleb will attend Boston College. salutatorian of the Class of 2008. who was coming. other prayers such as the Litany The first sign of the pope was on of the Saints and the Lord’s Triumphant Mock Trial Team Blows Away Competition the big-screen TVs above the Prayer were said and sung stage, airing his meeting with together. Kelly Clarkson returned continued from page 1 Mock Trial team finally set its was intoxicated at that moment, handicapped children within the to sing to the pope, and she first milestone in Northwest’s the lawyer had suffered a causing him to lose control over seminary. The first glimpse the performed what Amanda Perrotti history, providing a new standard temporary insanity at the time of his fury. Both the prosecution crowd of 25,000 on the seminary called “the most beautiful version for the team in its future years. the attack. In fact, Nefflen was and defense team brilliantly lawn had of him was through the of Ave Maria I have ever heard.” once caught sitting in a fetal executed the opposing viewpoints popemobile. However, soon Pope The music at the event was position in his office, and on Casey Nefflen’s murder of Student Council Benedict climbed to the stage and beautiful, from contemporary speaking in the most important part of the voices like Clarkson’s to tongues in court, 2008-2009 day began. children’s choirs to a traditional behavior that The pope’s program began with a cantor leading the sung prayers. indisputably Announced presentation of gifts by students The massive sound system helped exhibits mild from the Archdiocese of New proclaim the pope’s message to insanity. We are pleased to an- York. Gifts of bread, maize, and the entire crowd. At the end of Moreover, Casey nounce the Student Coun- rice represented the many the program, the pope walked different cultures of the United towards the people, giving them Nefflen might have cil officers for the 2008- been depressed the States, and representatives of his final blessing, and then day of the murder, 2009 school year: these cultures were wearing departed in his popemobile. due to the traditional costumes. Next, Francis Butler, a freshman, said disappointing President: Victoria students presented portraits of that this trip was a “once-in-a- verdict of the Mansolillo American saints, blessed, and lifetime experience.” He was court case, causing Keating McKeon venerables, whose stories were enthralled the entire time he was him to kill—or The Mock Trial Team achieved unprecedented explained. The students and at St. Joseph’s Seminary and “explode” on— success in this year’s competition. Vice President: Patrick adults from Northwest were knew that listening to and seeing Alex Day. Kearney envious of the students who were the pope was well worth the wait. However, the defense also argued, Alex Day in all the rounds against able to come so close to and talk The chaperones, such as Deacon to the pope. However, many of Santos and soon-to-be-Deacon this supposedly “angry” lawyer Hartford Public and Mercy. The Secretary: Robert Scalise might have killed Alex Day for defense team won their final our students were able to finagle Sutherland, were extremely other reasons irrelevant to his round, but the prosecution lost their way to the front of the excited before the trip and almost loss in the recent case. In fact, to Bethel High School, preventing Treasurer: James Fellinger crowd to see the Holy Father at a speechless afterwards. After once Nefflen had arrived home, an advance into the final round. short distance, producing hearing them describe their he discovered that his daughter— Despite the loss on April 30th, the Congratulations to these incredible pictures and even more experience, it was difficult to the “apple of his eye”—had been Mock Trial team still took pride amazing memories. remember that the rally was molested by his opponent Alex for accomplishing such a high hardworking students. We The next part of the program was designed for the youth. However, Day. Unfortunately, this tragic level of achievement, which was look forward to a fun and Pope Benedict’s talk, the high this memorable pilgrimage will be news reached the disappointed never before reached. After four productive school year. point of the day. The major one of the highlights of many lawyer at the wrong time, for he months of hard preparation, the themes of this sermon were hope, students’ spiritual journey at Northwest. Page 4 Northwest Catholic June 2008 NEWS H.I.L.L. Class Says “Hola” to Tour of Spain NWC Lives “La Vie Boheme” By Mike Lathrop than expected and relieved the exciting experience in Seville was fears of many. Granada’s stay the flamenco dance. The students on Broadway Trip to RENT Over April break, the Honors included a tour of La Alhambra, saw a small local display of the Institute for Leadership in Life a Moorish palace and fortress, popular dance style, which was an By Brandon Marshall day-out. As I entered the class, Mr. Tressler, and Mrs. and Generalife, the surrounding excellent way to gain a better Nederlander Theatre and studied Gillespie took a trip to Spain for gardens. The structure is an understanding of the region’s “Will I” ever see RENT the the set approaching my seat, I an unforgettable experience intricate building complete with a culture. musical “Another Day” on couldn’t believe that I was together, an experience that class reflecting pool in the center, which The group stayed at their final Broadway? I think not. After actually there in person. There is member Carolyn Spalluto gives a small peek at how destination, Madrid, for four hearing the entire soundtrack and something special about seeing describes as “not only an impressive the entire fortress nights. In Madrid, the students watching the movie on the big such a renowned Broadway educational experience, but a must have seemed while in use. took a walking tour of major screen, the only situation that was performance live. Maybe because chance to bond with my While in Granada, the students sites, visited the Royal Palace, the left for me was actually to see the the daughter of Northwest’s classmates and get to know them also visited St. Nicholas’ Point to Madrid Cathedral, the Prado musical in person on Broadway. friendliest custodian, Mr. Wilson, in a special way outside the look out over the entire city from Museum, and the Sophia Lorene Therefore, classroom.” Museum. It was right when the Since it was the first time for in the heart of opportunity anybody in the class to visit Madrid that the class was given to Spain, they did not know quite experienced their first see it before it what to expect. In preparation real siesta on the trip, is closed in for the trip, each member of the as they went to a September, I class researched a certain aspect park where it is didn’t think of Spanish culture and gave a customary to take a twice about short presentation, giving the nap in the middle of taking this class a better understanding of the day to regain special the country before they arrived. energy for the later opportunity. Though the students had to night life. The siesta As laughter filled the bus adapt their daily lifestyle to fit Mrs. Gillespie was well appreciated, that of a Spaniard, they did not says Kearney, since traveling on its The H.I.L.L. class pauses in their trek of Spain mind much, finding the Spanish “the days were way to the Big for a photo opportunity at the Plaza d’Espana. way of life to be much slower rewarding, but long.” Apple, Judith paced, which allows one to take a Commenting on the Appah, a Williamson Mrs. better view of the life going on a hill opposite La Alhambra and food in Spain, Lindsey LeDuc fellow senior, Mr. Wilson and his daughter Maia share a smile around them. Had it not been for were able to see the fortress responded “I have one word for and I after her powerful performance in RENT. Mrs. Gillespie’s fluency in towering over Granada, you: croquettas.” Indeed, the reminisced on Spanish, the class would have run protecting it from danger. native croquettas were a our own into many more problems than it The class then moved on to delectable food that can be filled musical theatre experiences. We Maia Wilson, would be onstage did. Mrs. Gillespie was easily able Cordoba where they were able to with meats such as ham, chicken, understood what it takes to or because viewing the show in to communicate with the native see an ancient Roman bridge and or even red deer, and were sought create a powerful performance the movie theatre just wasn’t Spaniards, which was very helpful water wheel and experience an out by many members of the and also how it feels when the satisfactory. On the other hand, when navigating the cities and interactive tour of life of ancient class at multiple stopping points. audience gives the cast a standing singing along to every song with especially when ordering food. times. The highlight of Cordoba According to Rebecca Hopkins, ovation after an exciting night’s the characters was a very Class member Mary Kate was the Mezquita, a Muslim “the food was excellent. I wish show. We knew the long hours exhilarating and special scenario Kearney stated that “Mrs. mosque which was later we had food like that available in spent in and around the theatre that made up for all of my stress Gillespie was invaluable with her converted to a Cathedral and that the United States.” making it our second home for that previous week. Whatever the knowledge of the Spanish uniquely blends together two very Though recalling the trip may the last two weeks before opening reason may be, this moment, all language and culture.” different architectural styles. cause many members to miss night. But, all of those frivolous eight hundred and forty minutes, The first stop was Granada for At the third destination, Seville, Spain, they all might agree with hours spent rehearsing were not will be very memorable to me and two nights. Many members of the the group visited the cathedral, an LeDuc that the trip was “the only tiring but memorable. With class were apprehensive about excellent example of the strength most amazing, Technicolor these flashbacks in my mind, I staying in a hostel, but the of the church during the 15th experience of my life thus far.” congratulate the cast as they Pension Britz was much better century. However, the most perform for a living day-in and NWC Music Department Triumphs in D.C. Competition NWC Returns With Many Awards By Jess Di Francesco The next day was a flurry of The bands performed in the activity, with a visit to the morning, and received stellar On Wednesday, April 23, the Smithsonian Air and Space comments from the judges. After Although exploring D.C. was a fun part of the trip, the real Northwest Music Department museum in the morning and a lunch, the choirs performed, and purpose was to compete in the Festival. All five groups that journeyed to Washington, D.C. tour of the stunning monuments did just as well. A quick stop at competed, Jazz Band, Wind Ensemble, Concert Choir, Women’s for the Heritage Festival music in Washington and a visit to the the hotel to freshen up was Choir, and Jazz Choir, did exceptionally well in the competition competition. This highly Arlington Cemetery in the followed by the dinner dance and and were awarded numerous awards. competitive and prestigious afternoon. The visit to the awards ceremony, where competition gives high schools Arlington Cemetery, though it Northwest proved their mettle How the awards work: across the nation the opportunity involved a lot of walking, was a with the numerous awards given to compete for a to the bands and panel of highly choirs. A special Each band or choir is ranked according to how their score qualified judges, award was given to corresponds with that of other schools. Awards are given to the who then spend Chris Brown for first, second, and third place schools. Each group is additionally ten or fifteen excellence in solo rated according to the range of their score. A score of 100-90 minutes discussing performing. After merits a gold rating, a score of 89-80 merits a silver rating, and the performances the awards, 79-70 merits bronze. The score a performing group receives is and giving the Northwest had a based on the range of the numbers and how it compares to the performers tips to chance to meet the other groups. This means that although a group might have improve their competing schools placed first in their division, they might only have received a performances. This in the dance that year’s musicians followed. silver rating. Various additional awards are given to those were a highly Sunday morning groups and performers that merit such. talented group and met with an early Mrs. Williamson Mrs. performed very The Northwest Music Department displays their awards on the breakfast and Mass Jazz Band: 1st place gold well, winning steps of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception. at the National Wind Ensemble: 1st place bronze numerous awards. Shrine of the Concert Choir: 2nd place silver The voyage began Immaculate Women’s Choir: 2nd place silver with stop in Baltimore, Maryland, moving stop. The most interesting Conception, a gorgeous and Jazz Choir: 1st place silver including shopping in Baltimore’s was the changing of the guard. modern church of monumental Inner Harbor and a tour of the This symbolic ritual takes place at size, decorated with countless amazing Baltimore Aquarium, the grave of the unknown soldier, colorful and vivid mosaics, as well Jazz Band also was awarded the Adjudicator’s Award, an award complete with dolphin show. a large white tomb stone marking as statues of numerous saints. given to the group that scores a 92 or above, as well as the award After a quick lunch, the group the final resting places of After a long bus ride home, for Best Band at the Festival. completed the final leg of the Unknown Soldiers from wars complete with three hours of journey, stopping briefly at the past. After Arlington Cemetery traffic in Maryland, the voyagers Chris Brown was awarded the Maestro Award, an award given hotel to change before heading to came the Vietnam Wall, which made it safely home to to a solo performer of exceptional quality. This award is given a baseball game in the Nationals was a very moving and powerful Northwest. It was an enjoyable to only four students in the whole festival. Chris specifically was Stadium. It was a close game, but experience for all. and successful trip, and everyone given this award for his performance on piano and vibes. the Washington Nationals beat The following day, Saturday, was had a great time. Congratulations the New York Mets with a score the day everyone had anticipated to the music department for a job of 10-5. since September: the competition. well done. June 2008 Northwest Catholic Page 5 ‘04 SENIORS ‘08 Northwest Catholic Seniors Choose Their Colleges... And Their Futures Kathryn Alexandru...... University of Connecticut Taylor Knortz...... Fordham University Jose Almedina...... Central CT State University Michael Koury...... Manchester Community College Grace Andruszkiewicz...... Marist College Kristina Krupa...... Loyola College/MD Joseph Angelico, III...... Hofstra University Anna Kurak...... University of Connecticut Judith Appah...... La Salle University Keith Kwasnik...... Central CT State University Tade Arter...... University of Hartford Lindsey La Porte...... Roger Williams University Grant Arzumanov...... Fairfield University Jessica Lane...... Villanova University David Backhaus...... Eastern CT State University Michael Lathrop...... Cornell University Nicholas Balkun...... University of Connecticut Rachel Lathrop...... Manhattanville College Catherine Barton...... Northeastern University Lindsey LeDuc...... Saint Joseph College Caleb Battersby...... Boston College Kevin Leuenberger...... Southern New Hampshire University Natalie Bell...... Ithaca College Andrei Libert...... Central CT State University Noelle Bellefleur...... Saint Joseph College Kristin Lombard...... Southern CT State University Michael Bercowetz...... Endicott College Jessica Luby...... Sacred Heart University Cierra Berry...... Central CT State University Travis Lynch...... Connecticut College Carolyn Bighinatti...... University of Connecticut Alana Macchi...... Emmanuel College Winston Blake...... Central CT State University Alyssa Malec...... Saint Joseph College Barrington Bogle, Jr...... Eastern CT State University Ashley Mara...... Central CT State University Brittney Bouier...... University of North Carolina/Greensboro Gregory Marakovits...... Stonehill College Christopher Brown...... University of Hartford Alexandria Marandino...... University of Scranton Sydney Brown...... University of Bridgeport Celina Marquis...... University of Hartford Francis Bruskey...... Susquehanna University Bradford Marrow...... Clark Atlanta University Joseph Buda...... Saint Joseph’s University Brandon Marshall...... Elon University Emelie Buell...... University of New Hampshire Diego Mas...... College of the Holy Cross Andrew Bunger...... Elms College Julianne McAndrews...... University of Maryland/College Park Kelli Byrd...... Eastern CT State University Meghan McCormack...... Johnson State College Kelsey Cahalan...... Keene State College Keating McKeon...... Columbia University Ida Cance...... Northeastern University Ryan Mead...... McGill University Melissa Cartagena...... University of Hartford Robert Michelson...... Undecided 4-year college Taylor Carter...... University of Connecticut Brittany Milliken...... Elmira College Diana Chin...... University of Connecticut Antonio Miranda...... Central CT State University Kristina Ciotto...... Manhattanville College John Mitsch...... Texas Tech University Megan Clark...... Salve Regina University Shannon Morales...... Dominican College Victoria Clarke...... Southern CT State University Adam Mortillaro...... Georgetown University Jasmine Clayton...... Pace University Billy Napolean...... University of Connecticut Dylan Connor...... Art Institute of Boston Erin Neagle...... University of Connecticut Lucius Coulotte...... Seton Hall University Alison O’Connor...... Endicott College Denis Cronin...... Union College Jonathan Olszewski...... Bentley College Casey Curry...... Palmer College Zachary Omichinski...... Employment Katie Curtin...... University of Maine Meredith Pariano...... University of Tampa Michael Davis...... University of Hartford Christopher Parmanand...... Bentley College Maya Dean...... University of Connecticut Jacob Pearsall...... Undecided Megan Dees...... American University Hannah Pelton...... Massachusetts Institute of Technology Madeline Deneen...... Marist College Amanda Perrotti...... Hobart and William Smith Colleges Gregory Desmarais...... University of Connecticut Gregory Peterson...... University of Michigan William Dodds...... Duquesne University Benjamin Pluta...... Saint Michael’s College David Durao...... Lasell College Christopher Prescott...... Saint Joseph’s University Michael Durkin...... Undecided 4-year college Robert Prignano...... Manchester Community College Kevin Eagan...... Rutgers University Stacie Provencher...... College of the Holy Cross Anastasia Feola...... College of Saint Elizabeth Alexander Pryor...... Clark Atlanta University Christopher Filomeno...... Endicott College Genevieve Quinn...... Stonehill College Nicholas Filomeno...... Mitchell College Kaitlin Ragalis...... Central CT State University Shannon Fitzpatrick...... The Hartt School/University of Hartford Ted Randazzo...... Drew University Brian Flanagan...... Endicott College Nora Regan...... Plymouth State University Brandon Forrester...... Lipscomb University Timothy Richardson...... University of Montana Stephanie Frazao...... University of Connecticut Jessica Rienow...... Geneva College Rachel Frye...... Manchester Community College Kenneth Rousseau...... Rochester Institute of Technology Ashley Marie Gagnon...... Undecided Andrew Salvio...... United Technical Institute Joshua Garcia...... Manchester Community College Meghan Sanders...... International Inst. Of Cosmotology Augusto Gautier...... Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute Brandon Sands...... Central CT State University Henrietta Geitz...... University of Philadelphia Katryn Sandsmark...... Southern CT State University Brianne Gilbert...... Gordon College Laura Scapellati...... Brio Academy of Cosmotology Danielle Gilmour...... Fairfield University Ryan Selig...... Eastern CT State University Jessica Gioia...... University of Connecticut Lauren Shea...... Mass. College of Liberal Arts Rachel Godbout...... Colgate University Emmanuel Simpini...... Southern CT State University Michael Golic...... University of Notre Dame Dianna Soucier...... Saint Joseph’s University Ashley Gostyla...... Eastern CT State University Carolyn Spalluto...... Amherst College Justin Green...... University of Connecticut Katherine Spano...... Purdue University Stephanie Griebel...... University of Tampa Dean Spence...... Norfolk State University Michael Hacia...... Lincoln Tech Danielle St. Jacques...... University of Massachusetts Sheena Harrigan...... University of Hartford Juliana Story...... Johnson and Wales University Emma Higgins...... University of Connecticut Kristin Sullivan...... University of Vermont Kathryn Hmelovsky...... SUNY/Potsdam Anna Szczubelek...... University of San Diego Rebecca Hopkins...... Penn State Nathan Tyler...... Southern CT State University Patrice Hubert...... University of Connecticut Grace Van Vranken...... City University of New York Elise Huehner...... Southern CT State University Ryan Vaughn...... Cabrini College Michael Hummel...... Keene State College Paul Vignati...... University of Scranton Tiffany Hyde...... University of Hartford Kate Wagner...... Wagner College Brendan Jasper...... University of Connecticut Lukas Walsh...... Fairfield University Aaron Jezouit...... Undecided Elena Washington...... Clark Atlanta University James Jordan...... Marist College Elizabeth Whalen...... Undecided 2-year college Lissa Joseph...... University of Connecticut Kristen Wieber...... Marist College Elizabeth Kallfelz...... University of Connecticut Antanisha Williams...... Southern CT State University Mary Kate Kearney...... Fordham University Kathleen Williamson...... Saint Joseph’s University Eric Kelly...... Wentworth Institute of Technology Audra Wooldridge...... Loyola University Chicago Brittney Kennedy...... The Taft School Brian Yarger...... Baran Institute of Technology Christopher Kevorkian...... University of Connecticut Brian Young...... Central CT State University June 2008 Northwest Catholic Page 6 PROM 2008 And the 2008 Prom Court is... Prince Princess Ryan Dowd Maura Eagan Court Court Garrett Hickey Caroline Leuenberger Jakquan Jackson Shealagh Begley Craig Watts Nina Varney

King Queen Michael Hummel Judith Appah Court Court Josh Garcia Ida Cance Brandon Marshall Elena Washington Paul Vignati Patrice Hubert Page 7 Northwest Catholic June 2008 PROM 2008 Page 8 Northwest Catholic June 2008 FEATURES Class of 2008 Recalls Four Years of Friends, Homework, & Memories What will you miss most about “Starting Lycea and Investors “In the end, everything will be “In all ways” – Katie Northwest Catholic? “Didn’t have any particularly Club” – Zach Omichinski ok. If it’s not ok, it’s not the Sandsmark humiliating moments” – Grant end.” – Julianne McAndrews “Supportive teachers” – Joe Arzumanov “Surviving” – Carolyn If your life philosophy could be Buda Bighinatti “Follow your heart” – Judith expressed on a bumper sticker, “When the bus to our Appah what would it be? “Music recitals and Black basketball game left me behind “Raising over $1210 to help History” – Cierra Berry freshman year” – Alex Pryor fight malaria in Africa. I asked “Speak clearly, loudly, slowly” “‘Should you be reading this NWC to contribute and the – Brandon Marshall while you’re driving?’” – Jessica “The people who made me Gioia laugh and the buttered bagels” – Sydney Brown “Tade’s World” – Tade Arter

“The Dramateurs” – Jessica “Shake your groove thang” – Gioia Emma Higgins

“Mr. Garr’s economic class “To do that” – Katie and ‘The Office’” – Diego Mas Sandsmark

“The Boys Basketball games “Only the strong survive” – and the atmosphere that comes Chris Parmanand with them” – Justin Green “Make love, not war” – Rachel What aspect of NWC won’t you Godbout miss leaving behind?

“A full parking lot” – Joe Buda What teacher from NWC would you like to have as a college “I won’t miss having to wear a professor? uniform.” – Jake Pearsall “Father Moran” – Dylan “The no-air-conditioning Connor aspect” – Rachel Godbout “Mrs. Juda, she’d make a “‘I’ll see you at two oh seven.’” seminar great.” – Diego Mas – Carolyn Bighinatti “Mr. Shugrue” – JP Jordan What can you always count on at Northwest? “I would like to have Ms. Casey as a college professor.” – “The look over by Mrs. Barrett Brittany Milliken for skirt length” – Julianne McAndrews “Mrs. Oates? – Cierra Berry

“Mr. Callahan telling me to get Quote one thing you know by a haircut” – JP Jordan heart.

“Fair treatment” – Ryan Mead What was your most students did.” – Brandon What advice can you pass on to “Do or do not, there is no try” – memorable moment? Marshall incoming freshman and Grant Arzumanov “Extra help in any subject” – underclassmen? Brandon Marshall “Playing in state playoff games “Mock Trial” – Judith Appah “‘Sometime it’s a little better to in hockey and lacrosse” – Joe “Do your homework and don’t travel than to arrive’ ~ Robert Buda What is the most important be late!” – Juliana Story M. Pirsig” – Ben Pluta If you could go back in time, is thing you learned in high there anything you would have “The history trip to England school? “Get involved, but learn how to “Once upon a midnight done differently? and France” – Jake Pearsall manage your time” – Brian dreary…” – Patrice Hubert “To remember the people who Young “My school work” – Tade Arter “Probably the black history are looked over in our world” – “I Pledge Allegiance to the flag performance my senior year” – Sydney Brown “Staple your paper before you of the United States of “I would have participated in Alex Pryor hand it in” – Emma Higgins America…” – Julianne different extracurricular “No matter how long you have McAndrews activites.” – Brian Young “Winning the Cross Country to do your homework, it will “Take physics, enjoy physics Conference in 2007” – Ben take that whole time” – Jessica day” – Chris Parmanand “‘To be or not to be.’ That’s “Nope, I love how everything Pluta Gioia Hamlet” – Emma Higgins came out” – Patrice Hubert “Have fun and don’t stress out” “The Boys Basketball game vs. “I learned to be friendly.” – – Patrice Hubert Name one trivial thing you East Catholic this year. The Jake Pearsall learned in high school. What was your most ‘slippery floor’ game.” – Justin In what way have you changed humiliating moment of high Green “No way is way, no limitation since ninth grade? “Swedish fish are made in school? is limitation” – Grant Canada” – Dylan Connor Arzumanov “Mature a lot” – Tade Arter “If I told you it would be What accomplishment are you “Ach de Liebezeit” (Oh my humiliating all over again” – most proud of? “Never procrastinate” – Brian “I’ve gained weight” – Alex goodness) – Katie Sandsmark Sydney Brown Young Pryor “Getting into my top choice “Teachers are just old “Being known as the ‘new kid’” school” – Juliana Story “Value of friends” – Frank “I have become more students.” – Ryan Mead – Ryan Mead Bruskey understanding” – Judith Appah “Getting into states this year “How to clean a cafeteria on, “The first day freshman year I for hockey” – Frank Bruskey What is the best advice anyone “I’ve come to care for the under, and around” – Carolyn ended up in Mr. Carney’s class has given you? environment more.” – Ben Bighinatti instead of Spanish.” – Katie “Honor Roll” – Alex Pryor Pluta Sandsmark “Join cross country” – Mary “Homework actually helps” – “Everything related to hockey” Kate Kearney “More confident, outgoing” – Joe Angelico “When I dressed up on the – JP Jordan Julianne McAndrews wrong Senior Day!” – Cierra “Work now, it’ll be worth it in Berry your later years of life” – Diego Mas June 2008 Northwest Catholic Page 9 FEATURES Inside Out: Kelsey Cahalan, Brendan Jasper, Mr. Fletcher, and Jasmine Clayton What would people be surprised BJ: Don’t do today what you Northwest, and give back to the to learn about you? could do tomorrow. community. SF: Why do we have an BJ: Probably Miami, but I don’t appendix? mind Bloomfield. Kelsey Cahalan: I’m a gold SF: My life philosophy is my SF: Purchase a fine alligator medalist in figure skating. blood type, “B positive.” skin money belt. If you could have one food for the SF: In a log cabin by a large lake rest of your life (assuming that in a remote area. Brendan Jasper: I JC: I would go to this strange situation would not was on Bloomfield’s London. affect your health), what food JC: Italy. swim team for three would you choose? years. What annoys you the If you could manage any most? KC: I really like Panera Bread’s professional sports team, what Mr. Scott Fletcher: I tuna. team would you choose? hold a fifth degree KC: When Megan black belt in Tae Dees squeaks. BJ: Definitely Mama Knortz’s KC: I don’t watch professional Kwon Do. cookies. sports. BJ: My brothers, Jasmine Clayton: Alden and Corey. SF: Lobster. BJ: The Miami Dolphins “Dora the Explorer” because they need a lot of help is the best help for SF: High gas prices. JC: Fried macaroni and cheese and I could only improve them. Spanish homework, from TGI Friday’s. and I use it all the JC: Rolling SF: The Manchester Strikers, a time. backpacks. If you could hear what someone is professional English lawn thinking for a day, who would you croquet team.

If you could be Nikki Milewski What would be your choose and why? anyone else at Jasmine Clayton personal theme song? JC: I don’t do sports. Northwest for a day, KC: Michael Scott. who would you be, KC: “Baby Got What would be the title of your and why? Back” by Sir Mix a Lot. BJ: Mr. Garr because he’s smart. autobiography? JC: The wisest follow their own KC: Mrs. Sibley, because she has direction. BJ: “Bootylicious.” KC: “The Life of a Mini Horse.” a great music collection. What are three things you could SF: Bobby McFarin’s BJ: Mr. Mirabello, because he not live without? “Don’t Worry, Be has the best job in the world Happy.” and he’s the man. KC: Panera Bread, Lindsey Lohan, and my cat, Darling. JC: “Milkshake” by SF: Mr. Clapper, for his keen Kelis. sense to adapt to many BJ: God, my Mom’s cooking, disciplines. and ESPN. What would your first action as President of the JC: I would be Mrs. Juda and I SF: Sustenance, a hydration United States be? would give my students a week material, and wasabi peas. without homework. KC: Make [going to] JC: My ipod, my purse, and my college illegal. If you were stranded on a desert sister. island, who would you want to be BJ: Hire more secret stranded with, and why? Who or what always makes you service, then take care of laugh? some problems in KC: Dean Spence, because he America.

makes good chicken. KC: Dr. Luddy. Nikki Milewski SF: Implement a Line- Kelsey Cahalan and Brendan Jasper BJ: My dad, because he would BJ: My family and Northwest Item veto. know how to survive and we football. SF: Pope Benedict, to “hear” his would have a good time. JC: I would make research conversations with God. BJ: “BFS: Bigger, Faster, SF: Kittens and lasers. papers illegal. Stronger: The Life of Brendan What is your greatest ambition in Jasper.” What movie could you watch over life? and over again, and why? SF: “Enthusiasm! Get Excited KC: To meet Lindsey Lohan and About It!” KC: “Sky High,” because I like to save all the abandoned cats in super heroes. the world. JC: I don’t read autobiographies, so I wouldn’t BJ: “Remember the Titans,” BJ: To make the world a better have one. because it’s my favorite movie. place. What magazine do you look SF: “Attack of the Killer SF: To hike the Appalachian forward to getting in the mail? Tomatoes,” due to its high Trail. lycopene content. KC: “OK! Magazine.” JC: To end world hunger. JC: “The Matrix,” just because. BJ: “O Magazine.” Who is your hero, and why? If the whole world were listening, SF: “Popular Mechanics.” what would you say? KC: Lindsey Lohan, because she’s a survivor. JC: “Seventeen” and “Reader’s

Nikki Milewski KC: Our God is an awesome Digest.” Mr. Fletcher God. BJ: My parents because they have taught me so much in my What random fact are you most SF: Angelina Jolie, for her keen BJ: Can’t we all just get along? life and were always there for proud to know? insights on macro-economics. JC: Angelica Badillo. me. SF: Vote Republican! KC: Dollar bills are six inches JC: Channing Tatum. Enough What would be the first thing you SF: Dean Kamen, our present- long. said. would do if you won ten million JC: How’s it going? Peace, love, day genius inventor. dollars? and harmony. BJ: Peraguin falcons can dive at What words of wisdom do you JC: Oprah, because she is speeds of over 200 mph. live by? KC: I would pay Lil’ Wayne to If you could ask God any one everything I want to be. come to Windsor and have a question, what would it be? SF: It would take 6,400 years to KC: Breathe, stretch, shake, let it concert. If you could live anywhere in the visit each star in our Milky Way go. KC: You’re a girl, right? world, where would you live? Galaxy for one second. BJ: Buy a car, give some turf fields and a real track to BJ: What do you need me to do? KC: Windsor Center. Page 10 Northwest Catholic June 2008 NEWS Point-Counterpoint: Should Driving Laws for Teens Become Stricter? Point: Laws Will Not Change Driving Behavior of Teens Counterpoint: New Laws Save Lives By Maura Graham Last year alone, 2,680 speeding are wide awake during the night By Adam Mortillaro saying that they are too severe citations were issued to teens and so they can be responsible drivers. for new drivers. They advocate Many young drivers are outraged license suspensions reached 975. It is during the day that most As the number of teenagers in the continued use of verbal by the new driving laws effective Junior Caitlin Kearns states, “I teenagers are tired and feel like automobile accidents increases, warnings as opposed to heavy as of August 1, 2008. The am not happy with the amount they need to sleep. “Teenagers people around the state of fines and suspensions that place government has decided to of teenage speeding, but I believe have more responsibilities now Connecticut and the country as a strain on the family in terms change the restrictions on the sometimes people, especially boys, than ever before and are a whole have called for stricter of cost of time and money. number of passengers a driver are pressured into speeding due extremely wiped out,” says junior driving laws. They assert that Some families cannot afford to can have in their car, the nighttime to tradition.” In the modern Jake Spignesi, “Therefore, new legislation that requires pay off heavy driving fines or to curfew, and penalties for driving world, students have hectic lives teenagers should be allowed to more practice hours, a longer lose a licensed driver. Critics violations for sixteen and and are committed to so many nap during school, so they can be graduated license period, and assert that the new laws are seventeen-year-old drivers. different activities that they are more awake during the day and more classroom time will be a over-excessive and need to be Young drivers are now only continuously rushing. “People be safer drivers.” life-saving remedy for the fatal curbed in order to relieve the allowed to drive by themselves for feel the need to rush and drive The truth is that many teenagers problem of young drivers in car strain on families and younger the first six months with their fast so they can make all of their are natural rule breakers who accidents. drivers in their teenage years. license. Between six months and a appointments” says junior Boris enjoy rebelling and acting While these new year, the only passengers the Garcia. Instituting more however they want. rules may seem driver is permitted to have in the regulations on driving will not Making driving laws excessive, the car are a parent, guardian, reduce the craziness of people’s harsher is not going to logic behind someone at least twenty years old, lives nor prevent them from keep teenagers from doing them is simply and “any additional members of rushing. “Tradition has set the crazy things and to give teenage the driver’s immediate family.” standard that men are supposed disobeying laws. The drivers the Teenagers are not allowed to to be wild and crazy, daredevils harder rules are to break, experience drive between 11 P.M. and 5 and rule breakers” says Lauren the more kids are going to necessary to be A.M., “except for employment, Kent. The answer to making want to break them. safer when they religious, school-related or for people slow down is not to When a mother says, drive. Some certain other purposes.” If a increase regulations, but to stop “Don’t touch that!” the teenagers get teenager is driving drunk and this legacy of speeding. child touches it. Likewise, their license and does not submit to an alcohol test Another driving statistic that the more a person says, to go out on analysis, their license will be upsets the government of the “Don’t speed!” the more their own with automatically suspended for State of Connecticut is the the teenager pushes the very little eighteen months. number of drunk drivers. Each accelerator. http://blogs.cars.com/photos experience and In the opinion of sophomore generation has become smarter The way to make teenagers www.rookiedriver.net is a website designed to help parents therefore do not Mary Frailey, “The most about drinking and driving as obey laws is to appeal to protect their teens when their children first hit the road. react to the outrageous change made to the they realize the danger that it them as equals and as someone mistakes of law is the fact that a driver who entails. In order to keep drunk who wants to protect them from We all have heard the tragic other drivers. They cannot gets their permit after August 1, drivers off the road, the number getting into trouble. If the laws stories of too many young lives afford to make mistakes as this 2008 must complete forty hours of alcohol abuse classes needs to are made stricter, teenagers will cut short by a bad decision on-the-job learning is very of behind-the-wheel driving.” be increased along with the feel that the government is just behind the wheel or a mistake dangerous and can result in an Freshman Patrick Graham said, availability and access to alcohol trying to assert more authority made by inexperience. The accident. “I thought the driving restrictions abuse information. and power. Teenagers believe that images on television of families Opponents of the new laws need before were horrible, these ones As previously mentioned, the the government does not care torn apart, communities to look at the facts. Automobile are even worse!” Junior Lauren government believes that late about them; rather, they see it as stricken with grief, and grieving accidents are the leading cause Kent admits that she is happy night driving is unsafe and the the government trying to prove parents and siblings are indeed of death for people between the heart-wrenching. The new ages of 15 and 19 as they are these new laws do not pertain to cause of most accidents. their control over their citizens. graduated license laws are a way four times as likely to get in a her because they are too strict Therefore, they changed the Changing the driving laws is not to limit the number of accidents. fatal accident as people in their and people are bound to disobey curfew. This fact may have been the answer to fixing these Isn’t it worth the added twenties. Although teenagers them. Does Governor Jodi Rell true in the past, but recently the horrifying driving statistics. If inconvenience if the new only make up seven percent of truly think that by making most fatal accidents have things are going to change, regulations save lives? drivers in the country, they driving laws stricter, the number occurred during the day. different kinds of modifications The new legislation recently account for fifteen percent of of accidents and drunk driving Teenagers stay up until midnight need to be made to teenagers’ signed into law by Governor M. total accidents. In considering will decrease? or later almost every night, and personal lives and the outside Jodi Rell originated in the the option of harsher driving world. Transportation Committee at laws, the State of Connecticut 2008 Olympic Controversy Caused By Tibetan Struggle the State Capitol under the did a study of other states with By Nicole Boucher every city through which the concerns, many have been quick direction of Representative Tony stricter regulations and found torch has traveled, pro-Tibetan to question the suitability of Guerrera of Rocky Hill and their number of accidents to be Steeped in over a century of rights groups have attempted to Beijing for an athletic State Senator Donald DeFronzo far less than the lenient states. tradition, the Olympic Games stand in the way of the athletes, competition due to pollution of New Britain and goes into There is a definite need for more inspire global competition and a evidencing the clash between and the city’s indifference to effect on August 1, 2008. It experience training for young sense of national pride. For sports and political issues. environmental concerns, restricts the people that a drivers as 82% of all teenage athletes, the competition Though some international evidenced in few measures taken graduated license driver can accidents are a result of driving represents the peak of their leaders such as French President to remedy the situation. drive with to a legal guardian, a errors. These errors can be athletic career. However, the Nicolas Sarkozy believe that the In spite of all of this driving instructor, or a person rectified by more time behind political controversy due to the situation can be solved through controversy, there are critics who over twenty who is teaching the the wheel. Every hour a venue of this year’s Games, mediation talks between China argue that the Olympics must person to drive. It doubles teenagers dies in a car accident. China, will undoubtedly and the exiled Dalai Lama, most remain centered on athletic side graduated license period to a The proven method to decrease overshadow the athletic agree that the Tibetan issue will of the games, as that is the year, lengthens the curfew from these numbers is to give drivers component of the competition not be resolved in time for the objective of this competition. Is midnight to 5 A.M. to 11 P.M. to more experience. If such a this Olympic season. 2008 Olympics. it fair for politics to ruin what 5 A.M., and created new, change could decrease the The 2008 Olympic season in Protesting the Games is not a new top athletes have aspired to harsher suspensions for driving number of children dying, the Beijing, China, faces massive phenomenon: it has become a reach for their entire career? law violations. It also requires state should make this move to protests and opposition that can major means of voicing concerns Should political debate be put parents to attend a two hour tighten the laws that govern the be attributed to recent intensified with the host country’s policies. aside in order to allow athletes training session and permit way teenagers learn to drive. struggles in the Tibetan fight for When the 1936 Olympics were to compete regardless of holders to complete forty hours To put it simply, there is no independence. The Chinese held in Nazi Germany, talk of ideological struggles? Or should of behind the wheel time as price on the life of a teenager. government aggressively boycotts abounded and some athletes themselves become opposed to the previous twenty. The additional hours and fines responded to these protests in Jewish protesters refused to conscious objectors to the games Opponents to the driving laws may be an inconvenience, but an attempt to silence the voices compete in the Games. Even more when they are played in a say that this new legislation has what is worse, a few extra hours of those crying out for freedom significantly, in 1980, sixty-two contentious zone? Olympic gone overboard in its well- on the road or a parent from a government that has led countries, encouraged by the tennis team player James Blake intended attempt to keep teens standing over his or her child’s to economic deprivation, high United States, boycotted the admits, “I would be safe. They point to the new grave? Which is better, a more rates of illiteracy, and a Olympics in Moscow due to the disappointed [with a boycott], curfew, parent training, and experienced driver confident in diminishing quality of life. In communist "iron curtain." because I want to compete in the required practice time as an his abilities to act responsibly on response, humanitarians and When the selection of the 2008 Olympics and I want to be extreme inconvenience to the road or an unprepared critics across the globe have Olympic Games location was there.” Often, the athletes are the families where both parents driver gambling with his life? advocated a potential boycott of announced, many critics ones most harmed by the work. They need the third There is a need to cut back on the Olympics. The clear impact questioned the choice because controversy and such protest driver as quickly as possible to the number of driving deaths in of this conflict is reflected in the China has long been infamous has little effect on the country’s help run errands, drive younger this country and the way to do recent hostile protests against for its suppression of journalism policies. It remains to be seen siblings, or even get to school. it is with stricter driving laws the symbolic torch’s journey and its communist political what the 2008 Olympic Season They also complain about the and regulations for younger from Greece to China. In nearly theory. In addition to these will amount to. cost of new infractional fines, drivers in their teenage years. June 2008 Northwest Catholic Page 11 SPORTS Young Baseball Team Steps Up to the Plate and Swings For States By Sam Frasco year’s mainly senior team, we’re last year as a major contributor one of them if they plan on to keep this five-year playoff trying to make adjustments with to Northwest baseball. Tony moving on to the state streak running. “ Our main goal NWC baseball, the Blake admitted that all the tournament. The whole school for the season is to make the state runner up team in underclassmen have big relishes the opportunity for these tournament,” says Greg the Class S state shoes to fill in order for the rematches. After returning from a Marakovits who has yet to see a championship in season to finish on a good state championship game, making season without a spot in the 2007, has returned note. “We’re having some the playoffs is a must for playoffs. to the diamond growing pains, but With a lineup full of with a slow start. with some talented players, the The team’s first improvement we will Northwest game against Hall end the season very community has High School saw well.” The captains complete confidence Northwest win are counting on the in the baseball with a huge lead of hard work of many team’s ability to beat 10-2. The team juniors and strong teams like went on to beat sophomores so that East Catholic and Fermi, Rocky Hill, Northwest baseball’s Middletown. Coach and Farmington Kate Schuppe state playoff Carlson, who has but the Indians Tom Bourdon throws another strike out from the mound. tradition will had a great deal of were challenged by continue. success with the rival East Catholic, Middletown, all our younger players,” said The Indians need to put program since he St. Paul Catholic, and Plainville, Tony Blake. So far junior Garrett together eight more wins began his coaching narrowly missing victory with a Hickey and sophomore Tom out of their next eleven career at Northwest, one run loss. The team lost Bourdon have stepped up to fill games in order to make was slightly several seniors last year and the in some of last year’s vacated the state tournament, and Kate Schuppe disappointed with young squad of 2008, led by spots. Hickey leads the team with Greg Marakovits plans Garret Hickey chalks up another hit. the team’s start but senior co-captains Greg hits and Bourdon is second to on just doing that. “ We’re has high Marakovits and Tony Blake, is Marakovits on the mound. Tom looking to turn this around, we Northwest, especially for the expectations for the remainder of working hard to live up to the Bourdon also has his own name have a lot of potential.” seniors who feel it is their the season. “We’ve been reputation of Northwest Catholic to live up to as he follows in the Northwest will face the four responsibility to continue a inconsistent, we need to come baseball and the expectations of footsteps of his older brother teams they lost to for a second playoff berth streak. There is a together and play some good Coach Cory Carlson. “ After last Mike, a catcher, who graduated time, and will have to beat at least lot of pressure on the 2008 team baseball.” Boys Tennis Shows Improvement Girls Tennis Starts Off Their Season With a Bang By Keelan Ledwidge “Without them, I don’t know By Michael Auletta outstanding chemistry; not too them and each player possesses where we’d be.” overpowering nor having a extraordinary potential. Despite a slow start to the 2008 Olzewski and Young will The Northwest Catholic girls’ particular weakness. Coach Piorkowski remarked “All season, the boys’ tennis team has undoubtedly leave the team in a tennis team is off to a successful The success of the team can be of the girls accept what a lot to be excited about. Built on great position for the 2009 start, winning its first five games, attributed to the starting ten. contributions they need to make a sturdy foundation of experience season, when the strong core of including key matches against Singles players Emily in order to be successful.” The and exuberant young talent, gifted underclassmen will be fully Middletown and East Catholic. McDonough, Gilmour, Mullane future of the team seems to be Coach Crowley’s squad continues prepared to take over for the These victories have boosted the and Schwartz have played bright with nine out of ten to showcase incredible individual graduating class of seniors. Some team’s confidence and exceptionally well all season long. starters returning to the team talent and is slowly developing of these talented young players contributed towards this season’s The doubles teams have been next year. With a team that is into a serious contender in Class- who have already contributed at goal of qualifying for the state consistent throughout the season. willing to do whatever it takes to S conference. the varsity level include tournament for the second year Whether one doubles team starts reach the next level and win a Following a season in which McAndrews and sophomores in a row. Last year, the team saw off the match with a win or three state championship, things can senior captain Jon Olzewski and Lucas Tyler and Connor Deneen, their first appearance in the state doubles teams need a win to only get better. Tennis is different sophomore phenomenon Joe as well as promising freshmen tournament but didn’t make it all decide if the match is tied at three, than any other sport as a team McAndrews qualified for the David Lawton and Brandon the way. Ever since this exciting the teams always contribute their can only get better if each single Class S doubles tournament, the Xing. opportunity, the team has been best effort. The doubles teams player improves. Individual team looks to repeat its “I’m very excited about the cruising. The team is led by consist of Kathleen Baldassare matches determine the outcome stupendous individual younger guys we have here. They Danielle Gilmour, Molly Mullane, and Emily Olszewski, Mikka of the team match, which achievements. McAndrews has have a lot of talent and we know and Emily Schwartz. Coach Tracey and Lizzie Olszewski, determines the chance of the team picked up right where Piorkowski believes that every Maura Eagan and Roz Gilbert, hanging that special, coveted he left off last season, player on the team plays a key and Gabby Marandino who fills banner. This year’s team, starting the year a role during the season. When in when needed and performs especially Coach Piorkowski, sizzling 5-1 start in asked about the team, Coach well. All of the girls have believe that the time is coming which he has Piorkowski recognized that his surpassed what was expected of and a state championship, a dominated his team is well balanced with major achievement for the opponents. Olszewski program, is within reach. and senior Brian Young have also both Athlete of the Season: Keith Kwasnik begun the season with By Sarah White “I feel I bring dedication and Do you set goals for yourself solid 4-3 records. More good work ethic to the team. If before the season? importantly, though, During the quiet intensity of a “Before each season, I set goals they have been golf match, it takes a different for myself and the team. instrumental in leading type of leader to encourage a Individually, I just try to the team and helping team to victory. Keith Kwasnik, improve and get better every the younger players to the senior captain of year. The goal for the team is develop. “As captain, Northwest’s golf team, knows always the same: to win every it’s my job to help the what it takes to achieve success match and win states.” younger players as best on the green. Keith not only I can. I know that if I leads by example with his Do you consider yourself to be a share my experiences, I knowledge of the game but more vocal leader for the team or

might help them get Cara Oleasz knows how to motivate and a strong physical presence on the better,” says Olszewski. Rich Jakiel returns a difficult serve. guide his fellow players with course? On his outstanding words of encouragement, an “I think I bring a little bit of appearance in last year’s Class S that they’re going to help us in a accomplishment acknowledged both to the table. I’ve always semifinals, Jon commented, “It big way,” says Coach Crowley. through special All-Conference said actions speak louder than was great to enjoy that success There are numerous indications and All-State honors. Important words, but sometimes words can last year, but I’m definitely going that the boys’ tennis team is ready values, like principle and really motivate the team before a to keep working to go even to take the extra steps needed for integrity, play an important part big match.” farther this year.” Such success this season. As the in the life of an Athlete of the determination and leadership is program continues to develop Season. These values will carry Is there anything at Northwest invaluable to the team and has fantastic individual talent and on with Keith as he continues Mr. Garr that you haven’t accomplished yet definitely rubbed off on the rest draw increasing interest from fans his career in golf at Central Kwasnik drives the ball. that you wish you were still able of the squad. Tennis is a team and underclassmen, there is no Connecticut State University. you don’t work for things in life, to? sport, and success is achieved not reason that the team will not don’t expect good things to “The one thing missing from my only through individual enjoy future greatness. According What do you feel you can bring to happen. Things always can’t just golf career at Northwest is a contributions but quality to McAndrews, “[The young a team? be handed to you.” state title, but our team is in the leadership as well. “Jon and Brian players] are really showing a lot midst of changing that.” are definitely the core of the of potential. The future definitely The cheerleading article in the April Edition of Northwest Passages was given an incorrect byline. The appropriate team,” says McAndrews. looks bright for us.” writer is Codie Landsman. Page 12 Northwest Catholic June 2008 SPORTS Boys Lacrosse Improves Through Season Softball Shows Dedication By Caitlin Kearns and Lauren Avon along with a victory against Senior Tim Richardson who had By Maddie Livingston Clapper has been coaching the Kent Branford. Their win against five goals in the Somers game and Northwest girls’ softball team for Branford on April 8th, however, is a major contributing factor in The Northwest girls’ softball team seven years and stated that, “The After a rocky start, the was an awesome victory. The every game, leads the team in can definitely be called a Rocky Hill game was very Northwest Catholic boys’ team was down throughout most goals. The team is anchored by comeback team. After a rocky exciting.” He also comments, “We lacrosse team is turning the of the game but ended up coming their strong goalie Joe Buda. start to the season last year, are much improved from last corner, and is on its way to a back to win with a score brought on by a lack of players, year.” successful season. After starting of 8-6. Ryan Vaughn had the team has transformed. An The wins against Hall and out slowly, the team has an amazing outside shot overwhelming amount of new Farmington showed the team’s improved its record to 3-6. The that boosted team players joined the team this year. drastic improvement since last boys’ lacrosse team is led by morale. Scoring for the While most of these new players year. After losing their first game senior captains Joe Buda, Greg team was Tim are freshmen, there are several against Hall, the girls returned Peterson, and Ryan Richardson with three, sophomores and juniors who with more determination than Vaughn. During pre-season, the Ryan Vaughn with two, tried out for their first time. The ever before at their second game team traveled to Seneca Falls near and Chris Kevorkian, abundance of players, in at Hall’s new home field. The Buffalo, NY to compete against Jake Pearsall, and Will comparison to last year, has team ended up winning 8-3 the Seneca Indians, which gave Grady each with one. enabled Coaches Liz Sankar and because of their impressive the boys a sense of the ultimate The whole team really Roger Clapper to form a JV team, dedication and increased amount level of competition. During this came together and scored coached by Mrs. Swetchy, of enthusiasm. Lauren Backhaus, time, the team came together as goals when it counted allowing for more interscholastic with her newfound enthusiasm, they played together for the first most. Since the team’s competition. made an outstanding twelve time. They experimented with rocky start, they have had Besides this addition, the softball strikeouts as pitcher that game. playing indoor box lacrosse in a two losses to Somers and team is winning games they lost The team’s first game against hockey rink, which in itself, was Xavier, along with two last year or at the least, Farmington was another an adjustment. During the three great wins. The team’s significantly decreasing the impressive “come from behind” days in which they were at Seneca next victory came easily amount they lost by. The Rocky victory. This landed the team its Falls, they played a total of seven against East Catholic Hill game is a perfect example. In second conference win of the games, four of which they won, with a score of 17-1. the bottom of the seventh inning, season. The team’s two and by the end of the weekend, Another highlight was Madelyn Filomeno the girls made an amazing conference wins are huge as the the team had come together. when the team won their Jake Pearsall blows past the opposition. comeback and ended up beating Northwest Conference is one of Coming back from New York, game against Tolland Rocky Hill 5-4. The game against the toughest conferences in the they began working on their quite handily with a score of 14-6, Protecting Joe is the fearless Rocky Hill was the team’s first state. goals for the season. boosting their record up to 3-6. defense headed by a strong Kevin conference win in three years. Next year’s team looks like it can A strong point of the team is the The Northwest defense was so Eagan, Greg Peterson, and Lukas This amazing comeback and only improve. The team will only team’s many seniors. Junior Sean dominant, in fact, that Tolland Walsh. At mid-field the team is conference win shows improved be losing one essential player this Murphy feels, “The team is lucky remained scoreless at the end of supported by Ryan Vaughn, Tim athletic ability, determination and year, as opposed to the three vital because we have a ton of senior the first half. Will Grady, a junior Richardson, and Jake Pearsall. contagious enthusiasm. players lost last year. The team leadership.” Due to the immense attackman for the Northwest Lastly, leading Northwest’s attack Coaches Sankar and Clapper are will remain strong and full of amount of upperclassmen, Coach Catholic boys’ lacrosse team, had is Will Grady, Chris Kevorkian, also full of enthusiasm. Coach experience in the following spring Gallagher has stressed the positive remarks on the and Ryan Selig. The team is Clapper, when asked about this because of the outstanding importance of team camaraderie remainder of the season. Grady is continually working to improve season’s highlights commented, leadership among the juniors. The and a strong bond between the extremely confident in its skills and play better together. “We have great freshmen; all the Northwest girls’ softball team is a boys. The team started out with a Northwest’s ability as a team to The team is optimistic and girls are hitting better and we comeback team because next year, record of 1-4. They opened the compete in a strong class S confident that the rest of the have two incredible pitchers, like this year, they will return season with losses to Conard, division. season will only get better and junior Nina Varney and freshman stronger, better, and possibly even Simsbury, Daniel Hand, and bring more success. Lauren Backhaus.” Coach more enthusiastic. Girls Lacrosse Starts Strong Track Makes a Run for Another Great Season By Jaclyn Diaz this team’s motto as the team is By John Whiting Bonfatto attests to this as he says, The team agrees that there is hope strong not just as individuals, but “The constant encouragement of for success for this season. With an amazing win early in the as a whole. When a group of Northwest the senior leaders helped Captain Brendan Jasper said, season against Catholic students can be spotted everybody improve. Everyday “The season looks promising, we Hamden in a 10-7 rolling and frolicking on the JV during warm-ups, you could tell have a lot of young talent and we victory on April 3, soccer field grass after school, it they wanted to win.” should continue to improve every Coach Jill Mullady is usually means outdoor track As of April 25, the team has only meet.” Indoor track Captain leading the Girls season has begun. Coach Przech participated in the Trinity Genevieve Quinn also said, “I Varsity Lacrosse is leading the outdoor track team Invitational and Farmington/ think the team will do team to a great start. again this season with his Plainville Meet. Trinity gave the surprisingly well this year.” Senior As a united front, assistant coaches; Danielle team a chance to get back into the distance runner Adam Mortillaro they are victorious Belliveau and Brittany Kitt. This feel of competitions since last believes, “With strong against strong teams season’s distance team features year’s season or for some, the contributions from the distance, in their division. Not incredible coaches as well, winter indoor track season. At sprinting, and field events the only have the girls Timothy Quinn and Patrick the Farmington meet, the girls boys can make a serious case for won their first game Williamson. were victorious against Plainville success in conferences.” Boasting but as of now they Along with the coaching staff, and Farmington while the boys strong seniors and promising are 5-0, with there are the outstanding senior lost to both teams. Even though underclassmen in every area of important wins leaders and captains, Brendan the boys did not triumph, they the team, Northwest track shows against difficult rivals Jasper and Ida Cance, who urge were defeated by only two points, strong potential for the such as Conard on the team on at every opportunity. a definite improvement from last remainder of the season and April 8 and Junior distance runner Mike year. future years. Farmington on April Madelyn Filomeno 9. During the game The team forms up to defend the goal. against Hamden, New Inductees to Northwest Athletic Hall of Fame varsity captain Ashley Mara had In addition to winning against By Julie Cleary Harding played and excelled, Finally, Northwest Catholic five goals, while Taylor Knortz rivals Conard and Farmington, football, basketball, and baseball. recognized John Shukie of West and Kayleigh Donnelly each had the girls won against Morgan and On March 29, 2008, Northwest Next, the Hall of Fame inducted Hartford. Mr. Shukie has been a two, and Kelsey Cahalan had Fitch over April vacation. In the Catholic held their Hall of Fame Patricia Knighton of Meriden, a very important member of one. game against Morgan, the girls Dinner to recognize five graduate of the class of 1976. Northwest Catholic High School As a group, the team has worked emerged victorious yet again with significant contributors to Knighton was a member of the community for over thirty years. exceptionally well together for the a final score of 14-6. The team Northwest athletics, as well as the first girls’ basketball team at He worked as a Social Studies past four years. “This has always continued with a 8-2 win against 1972 boys’ basketball team, the Northwest and also was on the teacher for many years and also been a close knit team. We always Fitch. Sophomores Bridget Daly first team to win the state school’s state championship track served as the Social Studies have each others back, on and off and Erika Duenas played championship in school history. team. To this day, Knighton still department chair. Mr. Shukie also the field,” says Varsity captain tremendously in both games. The The first of the inductees was holds the Northwest Catholic served as the Athletic Director, a Ashley Mara. Teamwork is one team also came out with a win at Michael Cobb of West Hartford, long-jump record. football coach, and a baseball of the most stressed aspects when Newington on April 12 with a a graduate of the Northwest class The fourth inductee into the Hall coach, achieving outstanding it comes to playing lacrosse. score of 17-9. of 1977. He was a member of the of Fame was Karen Rodgers, a records with his teams. He is the According to Ashley, the coach With a very promising start to the Northwest Cross-Country team graduate of the class of 1981, father of four Northwest alumni. “always stresses that we win and season, the team will hopefully and was among the top five excelled in soccer, basketball, and The Northwest Hall of Fame lose together.” The thirty-three- continue its winning streak in runners in the state during his track. She was the first All-State Dinner was a special night that player team works hard in upcoming games against junior and senior seasons. Girls’ Basketball athlete in saw five outstanding athletes and practices everyday after school competetive rivals and remain a Also inducted was Chuck Northwest Catholic history and a coaches recognized for all of their and on the field, where it typically united group led by strong Harding, Athlete of the Year in member of the 1981 state achievements and all that they plays two games a week. The old captains and coaches. 1971. While at Northwest, championship softball team. have done for the school. saying, “There is no ‘I’ in team” is