THE LIGHTHOUSE

Vol. XXIX, No. 4 Lyndhurst High School: 400 Weart Avenue, Lyndhurst, NJ 07071 February 2016 Banning tanning

FDA proposal aims et Sun in Rutherford. He tans two to three times a week and spends about to keep teens away 12 minutes in the tanning bed during each visit. from exposure to “I support the idea of tanning. I personally feel if someone is brought ultraviolet light more confidence from it, and they en- joy it, then why not? Especially since By Katie McMaster we can only tan for a few months in the summer,” Cosme said. Tanning for prom or experiencing a Cosme enjoys laying in the heat and summery glow during the cold win- hates being pale. He expects to con- ter months may soon become a thing tinue going tanning even when he is of the past for high school students older because of how much he enjoys across America. it. On Dec. 17, the U.S. Food and Drug Cosme said he takes precaution to Administration announced people limit the dangers that come along under 18 will be restricted from using with tanning by using bronzing lotion tanning beds. When the FDA’s reg- on his skin and wearing protective Courtesy of Julie Pacillo ulations go into effect, tanning bed goggles so that his eyes feel no strain. Junior Jackie Kelly, Sociology and Economics Teacher Mrs. Bossio and Juniors Gabby Carrion, Ivy Carbone and Amanda Marek (left to manufacturers could be required to Junior Marissa Hackett said she has right) prepare activities for the students at the South Bergen Jointure Commision in Lodi. make health-related warnings clearer never been in a tanning bed. She said to consumers as soon as possible. she strongly supports the FDA’s pro- Senior Shayna Southard, who will posal. be turning 18 in July, said she dis- “Teens are unaware of the possible Students experience academics agrees with the FDA’s proposal to consequences. Either they lack the restrict minors from tanning because knowledge or they are too naive and she does not believe there is a differ- ence in maturity between those who outside traditional classroom are 16, 17 and 18 years old. Therefore, “It’s not a necessity. she said they all deserve the same op- I just like being tan.” By George Rausch of cars, study how cars work and how this program because it would help portunities, especially when it comes to diagnose and assess problems with further her education in the nursing to tanning. As students enter the high school cars,” Zbuchalski said. “My favorite field. “I tan knowing the dangers, which is ignorant to realize the safety hazards at the start of the day, others are on activity is going into the shop on “I didn’t know SBJC was the type why I try to prevent the dangers from that come with tanning and believe their way to classrooms outside of Fridays and getting to work directly of school that it is, but I honestly happening. For example, wearing eye that they are invincible,” Hackett said. LHS, where they will learn skills and with the cars.” wouldn’t change it. I absolutely goggles to protect my eyes,” Southard She said there are extreme risks that master crafts meant to help them in As a first year participant in the love the school,” Marek said. “I’ve said. “I plan to stop tanning in the come with tanning, which include their future careers. program, Zbuchalski said he has developed more communication summer. It’s not a necessity. I just like severe sun burning, blistering, pre- These learning environments are learned useful skills despite how brief skills and understanding through the being tan.” mature aging of the skin, wrinkles, provided through programs offered his involvement has been. program. I’ve also learned about many Southard said she hates being pale freckles and skin cancer. at Lincoln Technical Institute in “With my experience so far this of the different mental disabilities and and enjoys feeling the heat when she Hackett also said tanning can turn Mahwah and the South Bergen year, I would very much recommend what to be cautious with concerning is inside a tanning bed. into an addiction. Jointure Commission in Lodi. this program to another student that each one.” “It reminds me of what the sun feels “As it may be relaxing and the results A total of 12 students participate in is thinking about joining,” Zbuchalski Junior Ivy Carbone, a peer of like beating down in the summer,” are noticeable, some people do take these programs, with five studying said. Marek’s working alongside her in Southard said. “I know how much tanning excessively far to the point at Lincoln Tech and seven through Junior Amanda Marek takes part in SBJC, said her experience has helped of a struggle it was for prom and not where they look unnatural and too the SBJC. These students spend their the SBJC program where she is led by to prepare her for the challenges of being able to go tanning since I am tan,” Hackett said. mornings, when other students are teaching specialists as she works with her professional goals in the field of underage.” She said a ban on underage tanning attending their Block 1 and 2 classes, children with special needs. physical therapy. Southard said she usually tans in a would improve the overall health of at their respective schools earning “We shadow teachers and watch “Every student is different, and I am bed at Planet Fitness in Belleville. She young adults and the skin’s aging ef- high school credit through hands-on how they teach and we sometimes constantly learning new things about goes there about five times a week fects. learning opportunities. work with the kids,” Marek said. “I the kinds of disabilities the students and lays in a tanning bed for about 10 “Teens should just be thinking about Junior Dakota Zbuchalski takes part enjoy working with the children have,” Carbone said. “The biggest minutes during each of her visits. the future more,” Hackett said. “They in the Lincoln Tech program, where because they’re all really open and challenge is having to be extremely Like Southard, Senior Shayne Cosme have to take awareness of all of the he takes classes to prepare him for a enjoy communicating with someone patient, sometimes repeating myself is against the FDA’s proposed ban on tanning dangers. The FDA’s proposal career in automotive repair. their age instead of with an adult.” tanning. Cosme is a regular at Plan- is just one more step towards this.” “At Lincoln Tech, I study the systems She said she decided to take part in Continued on Page 4

Tweet tweet Keep calm by coloring Diving for joy Can the Twitter bird A favorite childhood Swim team ends its handle the weight of a pastime finds an older regular season with a 10,000 character limit? | 5 following. | 5 winning record. | 12

Check out “The Lighthouse” on the LHS website! THE LIGHTHOUSE 2 NEWS/FEATURES February 2016

Courtesy of Jessie Bolton LHS Graduates Emma Flusk, Lucinda Garcia, Angela Sammarone and Christine Murtha (left to right) are former editors-in-chief of The Lighthouse. On Jan. 12 and 13, they spoke to students in Ms. Pastor’s journalism classes about their experiences in college. The Lighthouse alumni reflect on life after high school

By Assmaa Elbanna work you have to do for each individual class,” sity’s weekly student newspaper, and had the year state school. Garcia said. privilege to interview Tim Gunn of the TV show “Don’t transfer before getting your associate’s In Room 234, a new year marked the appear- She also urged students to get involved in cam- “Project Runway” at a campus event that took degree. If you transfer without getting your as- ance of familiar faces. On Jan. 12 and 13, for- pus events and activities. place in October. sociate’s degree, your college has the ability to mer editors-in-chief of The Lighthouse returned “Balance is really important because you are Unlike Sammarone, Murtha did not feel the pick and choose what classes they choose to take to offer advice and motivation to current staff going to want to have fun,” Garcia said. “You college she began attending as a freshman was to apply towards your major. If they take your members. In a panel discussion held during have to give yourself a break in college because a good fit for her. She started her undergraduate associate’s, they take it as a full liberal learning,” journalism classes, last year’s leaders Emma sometimes it gets overwhelming.” career at Quinnipiac University in Connecticut Murtha said. Flusk and Lucinda Garcia as well as 2012 Grad- Sammarone, who is finishing up her un- with the intention of earning a major in journal- She said because she transferred without a uates Christine Murtha and Angela Sammarone dergraduate studies at Fairfield University in ism. After her first semester, Murtha transferred community college degree, almost none of her shared their insights about college. Connecticut, said she made a wise decision by into Quinnipiac’s School of Business. coursework from Quinnipiac could be used to- Flusk, a freshman at Montclair State University, studying in another state. When she completed her freshman year, ward her bachelor’s degree at TCNJ. decided to study closeby so she could commute “I know it’s a big Lyndhurst High School trend Murtha transferred to The College of New Jer- Murtha urged students to stay organized and and continue enjoying the comforts of home. to stay in New Jersey, but the benefit of going focused. She said this begins with the purchase “I get a lot freedom while commuting. You away to college is something that you won’t of a planner and keeping deadlines documented don’t necessarily have to dorm or be out of state know unless you just try it, and do it and just “In college, it is really important in a single place. to feel like you are on your own, because you take that risk,” Sammarone said. When it comes to class, Murtha said note- can definitely feel that way when going to school She said when she was in high school, Anat- to be on top of everything. Look at books are preferable to laptops and tablets. fifteen minutes away,” Flusk said. omy and Physiology Teacher Dr. Dunn encour- your syllabus, always be checking “Unless you have the best attention span, it Majoring in Television and Digital Media, aged her to advance her studies out of state. your planner and you always want will be difficult to avoid getting distracted,” Flusk said she made schoolwork her priority “I cannot thank him enough for pushing me, Murtha said. “It is easy to start answering emails during the fall semester. because being away in Connecticut has definite- to be ahead of the curve.” or checking Facebook. So, just stick to hand- “In college, it is really important to be on top ly helped me to grow up and to be independent writing notes. It will be more likely that you’ll of everything. Look at your syllabus, always be and to experience life in a completely different retain the information better if you handwrite checking your planner and you always want to way,” Sammarone said. sey and decided to study accounting, an interest it anyway.” be ahead of the curve,” Flusk said. An English major with a concentration in that developed because of an Advanced Place- Murtha said first year college students gen- Garcia is a freshman at Syracuse University Education and a minor in Digital Journalism, ment Microeconomics course she took at LHS. erally have fewer responsibilities and easier in upstate New York, where she majors in Com- Educational Studies and Women, Gender and Murtha has also taken on a minor in pre-law. coursework. Therefore, she said freshman year munication as well as Television, Radio and Sexuality Studies, Sammarone said Fairfield While Murtha transferred from a private is a student’s time to excel academically. Film. Like Flusk, Garcia said academics need to University has provided her with unique lead- school, she said for financial reasons, she would “That is your GPA boost. This is your time to be a student’s main focus. ership opportunities. She is currently the man- encourage others to earn an associate’s degree set the tone for the rest of your four years,” said “Make sure that you are making time for the aging editor of The Fairfield Mirror, the univer- at a community college before attending a four- Murtha. Gavel falls for final time as mock trial competitions come to a close

By Alyssa Engels “I get excited for them, or if the oth- joined the team because his friend “Mock trial helps with public speak- Skwara said the best part of mock er team hits them in one part, I feel Freshman Eric Mangru, who is also ing in the outside world,” Skwara said. trial is answering questions and hav- Some students have aspirations of badly for them, but I get excited when on the Mock Trial Team, encouraged “Also, watching the attorneys on the ing a platform to act confident, mean one day making a career in fields re- they go because I’ve seen all the prac- him to join. other team and on our team show[s] and dramatic. lated to law. They dream of days spent tice they put into it,” DiMaggio said. This season, Skwara, who aspires for that you have to be persuasive in life, “I like fighting. It was really great in the courtroom arguing cases and With a young group, the Mock Trial a career as a lawyer, took on the role and you have to be as convincing as and [I] hope to do more in the future,” protecting justice. Other students al- Team ended its season 0-3. as a detective in a murder case. possible.” said Skwara. ready reached this goal in high school “In my opinion, our record is in- by joining the Mock Trial Team. significant. We competed against “High school teams compete and schools who treat mock trial like we actually put on a case,” said English treat football,” Freshman Susane Mo- Teacher Ms. DiMaggio, who has ad- rozewicz said. “Although we didn’t vised the team for the past five years. win any of our trials, we worked to- “They’re given all the facts [and] all gether, and I believe that is most im- the witness testimony to the police.” portant when attempting to succeed.” Students on the team are also men- The team practiced at lunch as well tored by Attorney Kenneth Porro, as some Saturdays and Sundays in who volunteers his time to help the order to prepare for the competitions group, which consists of a defense that took place at the Bergen County team and a prosecution team. Both Surrogate’s Court in Hackensack. the defense and prosecution consist “You’re trying to win. This is just of two attorneys and three witnesses. like a sport. You’re super-competitive, DiMaggio said this season, the team and you’re going against people that tackled legal issues related to hate you don’t know, and sometimes they crimes, animal crimes and homicides. make you feel so insecure about your- “I like that this is giving students self,” Morozewicz said. here a little taste of what it is like to Explaining the performance aspect compete in an academic fashion,” of mock trial, Morozewicz said, “You DiMaggio said, “and show that we must get into character and not break are just as capable as schools in upper that character till the end of the trial. Bergen County.” You need to make the other team be- Courtesy of Ms. DiMaggio DiMaggio said she enjoys the com- lieve you are telling the truth.” Junior Julie Pacillo and members of the Mock Trial Team compete at the Bergen County Surrogate’s Court in Hackensack on Jan. 12. petitive aspect of mock trial. Freshman Konrad Skwara said he Pacillo played the part of Jordan Abrams, key witness for the prosecution. THE LIGHTHOUSE February 2016 NEWS/FEATURES 3 Limited parking drives students crazy

By Katie McMaster Students typically rely on Fern, Forest or Weart students are parking on different streets de- the beginning of my day tiring and difficult. Avenues to park. However, the part of Fern Av- pending on the day, it is hard to figure out where I wish there was another solution because it Without a student lot, parking for school can enue closest to the school is designated for stu- parking might be available. would make driving to school a lot easier,” said be an exhausting and frustrating experience. dent drop-offs from 8 a.m until 4 p.m. “I hate the parking at LHS, honestly. It makes Duffy. The shortage of convenient street parking caus- Senior Amanda Hackett said it bothers her es students either to resort to squeezing into when people purposely take up extra space in tight spaces or taking up more than one spot order to pull out easily. This forces other stu- Do you struggle to find parking around LHS? intentionally. dents to parallel park in tight quarters. Hack- As the year progresses, more and more stu- ett said there is limited availability for student dents are receiving their licenses, making the parking, so students should be considerate. situation even more difficult. Hackett said the worst time of the day to find “I have had to risk parking into a really tight parking is at the end of lunch. She said this is be- No spot multiple times when looking for a spot to cause not all students leave for lunch. Therefore, park my car. There is always at least one hassle fewer spots are available. Hackett said she tries to avoid parallel parking whenever possible because it is time-consum- “I have had to risk parking ing. Yes into a really tight spot “In order to secure a spot in the morning, I leave my house around 7:45,” Hackett said. “I al- multiple times when looking ways try to park right at the end of the parking for a spot to park my car.” lot on Forest Avenue because it is a short dis- tance from the car to the main entrance, espe- cially in the cold weather.” when it comes to parking,” Junior Zach Fenton Senior Haley Duffy leaves her house by 7:40 said. a.m. to get her favorite spot on Weart Avenue He said the hardest time to find a spot to park in front of the gym. Like Hackett, she likes to is in the morning before school. park there because it is close to the entrance and “The people who live around the school have convenient when bad weather hits. Courtesy of Katie McMaster not yet left for the day. So, their cars are still Duffy said she wishes students would stick to In a survey of 100 seniors, 63 said they drive to school. Of those 63 students, 55 said they struggle to find a park- there,” Fenton said. the same spots every day, explaining that since ing space by LHS. Eight senior drivers said it is not a struggle to find parking by the school. Black History Month raises A new beginning for awareness about racism New York Giants fans By Stephen Dittamo for Coughlin and the Giants to go By Megan Rudden A nationwide poll conducted by English Teacher Ms. Burns said she their separate ways. CNN and the Kaiser Family Foun- makes an effort to teach her students When Former New York Giants “The last three seasons have been February is Black History Month, dation in 2015 found that 49 percent about racism in her classroom. She Coach Jim Fassel was fired by team a trainwreck for the Giants,” Stitzer which recognizes African American of Americans believe racism is a big said the sophomore curriculum lends management in 2003 following a 4-12 said. “Coughlin says he takes full culture and the achievements of his- problem. Thirty-three percent said it itself to the topic because it includes record season, the Giants knew they responsibility for the horrific season.” torical figures including Martin Lu- was somewhat of a problem. “A Raisin in the Sun” by Lorraine needed a leader who could help them Despite being a fan of Coughlin’s ther King, Jr., Malcolm X and Rosa In a survey of 78 LHS students, Hansberry, “Night” by Elie Wie- achieve victory. during his years in New York, Parks. These activists all encountered 41 percent identified racism as a “big sel and “To Kill a Mockingbird” by With the future of the franchise Sophomore Bella Calvi said sloppy prejudice, discrimination and racism. problem” and 33 percent said it was Harper Lee, all of which are texts that at stake, the Giants’ front office plays have taken a toll on Giants fans. Freshman Brian Podolski said rac- somewhat of a problem. touch on the subject. made the decision to hire former “The Giants were not prepared for ism is not just part of history. He said Sophomore Dalia Afifi also is part “I try to take every opportunity to Jacksonville Jaguars Head Coach Tom a lot of games this year and in years it continues to exist in today’s culture. of the majority of LHS students con- engage my students in a discussion Coughlin. This decision, along with prior,” Calvi said. “The last three years “Very often you see or hear on the cerned about racism. about the issue of racism in the past, a draft day trade that landed future of his coaching tenure, he was not up news about a black man getting shot “Many times I have gotten com- as it appears in our readings and how Quarterback Eli Manning, led the to par with what fans and front office by a white officer, and the following ments made about my mother wear- it is still a relevant issue in today’s so- team to five playoff appearances and wanted. McAdoo has a chance to days you hear about all the contro- ing a head cover,” Afifi said. “It’s part ciety,” Burns said. “As much as I would two Lombardi trophies. change the culture of the team.” versy coming along with it,” Podolski of a religion, and just because people like to see a world in which racism is However, at the end of the 2015 However, Calvi said she is unsure said. “It has such a negative impact in don’t follow it doesn’t mean it gives completely eradicated, I think there season, following four years without McAdoo is up for the challenge. She society, not accepting others, definite- them the right to judge it.” will always be people with certain playoffs and back-to-back 6-10 said the Giants may have rushed into ly causing more problems and tension Afifi said racism is a quality of ideals embedded in their thinking records, rumors spread that Coughlin his hiring before considering other in the world.” closed-minded people who do not who will consciously or unconscious- would be fired. In response, Coughlin coaches. Podolski said standing up against take into consideration another’s per- ly pass that thinking on.” submitted his resignation as Giants “I would need to see the team racism is difficult. sonalities and backgrounds. She said Burns said the United States has coach. practice with him as a head coach “People are always going to be prej- stereotyping is rude and wrong, but come a long way, but there is still Sophomore Terence Beebe, a lifelong before making the complete decision udiced. No matter how hard we fight she believes racism is here to stay. more change that needs to occur for Giants fan, said it was time to separate that he is the best,” Calvi said. “As for it, it is just their view on other “No matter how many laws are equality to be reached. Coughlin from the team. a fan, I hope they made the right people. And although it’s wrong, made, people are entitled to their own “It’s a shame people can’t see past su- “We have a great chance to be better choice.” we could definitely try, but we can’t opinions. So, that allows people to be perficial things and realize that peo- with [Current Giants Head Coach] Sophomore Mark DiMeglio said change it,” Podolski said. racist no matter what,” Afifi said. ple are people,” said Burns. Ben McAdoo because he coached our he is a football fan but cheers for offense really well. The Giants will one of the Giants’ biggest rivals––the improve this free agency and with Philadelphia Eagles. He thinks the How big of a problem is racism in society? the number of draft picks we have, I Giants will struggle in their first year see great success in our future,” Beebe without Coughlin. said. “I don’t believe they will be better don’t know/no response Beebe said with the Giants’ bad play with McAdoo. This is his first time recently, the team’s losses were not being a head coach with a good entirely Coughlin’s fault. Beebe said amount of young players,” DiMeglio not a problem at all Coughlin should be commended for said. his achievements. The Eagles are also in the process “He should be in the Hall of Fame of replacing their head coach and a small problem [for] winning two Super Bowl titles in DiMeglio believes Coughlin would be four years,” Beebe said. the perfect fit. Like Beebe, Giants fan Freshman “After [Head Coach] Chip Kelly’s somewhat of a problem Derin Stitzer said Coughlin deserves release, I would want to see more to be in the Hall of Fame because traditional football played at a slower he was with the Giants for three pace, and I think Coughlin would be a big problem of their Super Bowl wins. He was perfect for that,” DiMeglio said. head coach when they were Super DiMeglio said Coughlin’s Bowl champions in 2007 and 2011. achievements leading his Giants 0 5 10 15 20 25 30 35 He was also their assistant coach in team to 102 regular seasons wins and 1990, when the team took home the two Lombardi trophies cannot be Number of Students Lombardi trophy. overlooked. Courtesy of Megan Rudden “That’s pretty impressive,” Stitzer “It will be hard to fill the shoes of In a survey of 78 LHS students, the majority responded that racism is a big problem. said. Nonetheless, he said it was time Coughlin,” said DiMeglio. THE LIGHTHOUSE 4 NEWS/FEATURES February 2016 Streaming apps offer options to music lovers

By Kayla Friend allows for online and offline playlists. It has a 24/7 radio station available to People have more options than ever everyone. Once signed up, there is a before for streaming music. While free three month trial. When those music might be highly accessible three months are up, it is $9.99 per nowadays, it can be hard to decide the month. The family plan, which covers music app that best fits one’s needs. up to six users, is $14.99 per month. Some of the most popular apps Sophomore Amy Mehboob, an available for music buffs are Apple Apple Music subscriber, said it is her Music, Pandora, SoundCloud and favorite music app. Spotify. “It’s convenient and familiar, and Pandora, which was founded in I don’t have to download any new 2000, offers users selections based on apps since Apple Music is already Courtesy of Tasneem Chowdhury the artist, song or genre requested. downloaded,” Mehboob said. “The Users can respond to the station advantage of this app is that it has a Pandora created by clicking on free trial. So, anyone can try it and see thumbs up and thumbs down icons. if they like it.” These responses are utilized by She said Apple Music’s drawback is Pandora to better predict the user’s that not all artists are streamed. Phubbing preferences going forward. SoundCloud offers the ability to The mobile app version is free with upload, record, promote and share ads and users have a maximum of music. The first subscription plan The war against social interaction wages on forty hours of listening monthly. The is free and includes a three hour desktop version is a free, unlimited upload quota. The second is the Pro service with ads. Paying $3.99 per subscription for $6 per month. It By Julie Pacillo other, and yet the communication Junior Kevin McNamara has been month will get you advertisement- includes a six hour upload quota is through a machine rather than without a phone for three years and free listening on both the desktop and with a 1,000 download cap per track. You and your friends finally go to through each other talking,” Dunn views phubbing as a form of addic- mobile versions. The last plan is the Pro Unlimited that new, popular restaurant in town, said. “As much as it’s a tool of in- tion. He said he would not be on his Sophomore Anna Henning said subscription. It includes unlimited and it lives up to expectations. But finite wisdom, it’s a distraction from phone often even if he had one and Pandora is her favorite music app. uploads and unlimited downloads for as soon as your waiter delivers the using that wisdom.” would only text to answer another “I like how you can choose certain $15 per month. main course, your pals pull out their Dunn held off on giving his person’s message. stations to listen to certain bands and The advantages of SoundCloud are cellphones to snap a picture of their 13-year-old son a phone until he “People are going to start doing it also have the option of skipping songs that users can utilize the platform to plates to share on Instagram. Then, became a teenager, but Dunn said way too much, and there’s going to be that I don’t really like,” Henning said. share their own audio files and stream each person absent-mindedly begins soon enough, his son was using his no more social interactions without She listens to music every day, with submissions through DropBox scrolling, tuning out the company phone every day and phubbing him. pop rock being her prefered genre. without taking up space on their around them. “For [teens] and my son’s genera- “The advantages of using this app desktops. According to stopphubbing.com, tion, you guys communicate with “I see it every day are if I watch a fifteen second ad, Sophomore Meghan Garcia said a campaign website to raise aware- it extremely well. So, obviously you happening, and I’m always ness about the overuse of cellphones, understand each other, and you get it sometimes gives me an hour of SoundCloud is her favorite music app amazed that people can sit listening without interruptions,” because it is unlike any other. phubbing is defined as snubbing to emote emotions, but most of the Henning said. “I listen to music every day someone in a social environment by time, I think it’s not as important as at a table right across from Spotify, which was founded in typically throughout the day,” Garcia looking at a phone rather than paying being there in the moment,” Dunn each other, and yet the attention to the world around them. said. 2006, offers users access to a variety said, explaining she mostly uses communication is through of artists and albums through the SoundCloud to listen to rap and pop. The website shares statistics about Junior Gabby Carrion uses her creation of a playlist containing their “This app is my favorite because phubbing in hopes of shocking its cellphone every day and admitted a machine rather than favorite songs as well as artists. most of the songs I like and enjoy audience. For example, if phubbing that she has ignored others while through each other talking.” The mobile app is free with ads listening to can be found on it, and I were the plague, it would decimate focused on texts, tweets and Insta- and is $9.99 per month for ad-free get to use it for free,” Garcia said. “It is six Chinas, and precisely 87 percent gram. Of all the people she phubs, listening. The desktop version is free your choice of what songs you want to of teens would rather communicate Carrion said her mom gets most the phone,” McNamara said. “I use with ads and users have a maximum listen to. There are also fewer ads than through text than face-to-face. annoyed. my computer when I’m home, and of two-and-a-half hours unless they other music apps.” The word phubbing was coined in “She yells at me and tells me she I’m fine. People could live without it are subscribers. Garcia said the disadvantage of Sept. 2015 by Designer and Art Di- is going to take my phone away, but but don’t.” Junior Jeremy Luciano said he likes the app is it can be hard to find the rector Alex Haigh, who created post- she never does,” Carrion said. “I In a world where technology has Spotify best. original recording of a song among ers, decals, wedding place cards and would cry to get my phone back if it infiltrated all parts of life, commu- “You can pick any song and genre so many covers. She said music apps websites to highlight the scourge of were taken away, because I just need nication through the cellphone has of music that you want,” Luciano are important because they allow her glazed faces in public settings. it. Without it, I am so lonely. I have become the norm. Whether texting, said. “If you pay for it, there are no to relax when she feels stressed or Biology Teacher Dr. Dunn said nothing else to do.” status-updating or just checking in, commercials, and you can pick any anxious. the campaign is a great idea, but he Carrion said her eight-year-old everything happens online. song you want, unlike other apps.” “Music apps impact people in many believes it will be unsuccessful un- brother is beginning to follow in her Carrion said phubbing could end Apple Music, which was released ways. The most significant way is it less the philosophy of phone usage footsteps by using technology in so- immediately if that is what people in June 2015, offers users the option allows people to escape the troubles is changed. He said there is nothing cial environments. want, or it could go on forever. of combining their purchased of reality,” Garcia said. “The different wrong with technology, but phubbing “He is already attached to the Xbox “It’s just something we have to deal music library with the Apple Music options of music apps are very exudes inappropriate behavior and and the iPod and his computer. He with. [Phubbing is] a personal choice, streaming catalog. This app also valuable options.” poor manners. doesn’t have a phone, but he down- “I see it every day happening, and loads texting apps on his iPod,” Car- but it’s a choice that could affect so I’m always amazed that people can rion said. “He already phubs me at many other people,” said Carrion. sit at a table right across from each the age of eight.” Students take learning to the next level

Continued from Page 1 Y SLA NNU TR M multiple times to get a response out h A AL E of a student.” 4t O 1 P Carbone said she would recommend E-mail your poetry, black and white the program to all students, regardless photography and artwork to Ms. Pastor by of their career aspirations. Thursday, March 3 if you plan to participate. “It not only sets you up for your Location: library health and human services career When: Thursday, March 24 path, but I learned a lot about college Blocks 3 & 4 and how to manage finances when I graduate,” Carbone said. “The greatest reward is knowing that the students love to work with us as much as we Courtesy of Kelly Weckstein Art by Kelly Weckstein love to work with them.”

THE LIGHTHOUSE February 2016 NEWS/FEATURES 5 Adult coloring books are combatting stress Coloring isn’t

just for kids

By Julie Pacillo Pigment is another free app in the App Store. This virtual coloring book Coloring books are back, and they offers a library of over 200 designs have a new target audience: adults. that include images of waves, animals, As people grow older, they usually doodles and more. Unlike the usual tuck away their coloring utensils and tap-to-fill coloring apps, Pigment replace them with more strenuous simulates pencil and brush strokes to activities such as work and school. help users achieve a realistic coloring However, coloring books geared experience. toward teens and adults are changing Art Teacher Mrs. Almeida said she the way these age groups are looking does not own any coloring books. at what was once considered a However, she said art in general is childhood pastime. one of the best ways to relieve stress Adult coloring books relieve stress because it relaxes the mind and calms through intricate patterns that supply the nerves. the mind with a healthy distraction, “A couple of my friends have books, according to The New Yorker, a news and they keep sending me pictures of Courtesy of Kelly Weckstein magazine. things they’ve done because they’re Junior Ivy Carbone said she loves very proud of themselves. They do the three coloring books she received look good actually,” Almeida said. “I Twitter pushes the limit to 10,000 characters this past Christmas. have an interest in coloring, but I’m “I’ve been coloring since I was a more one to make my own art rather By Teslim Olunlade English Teacher Mr. Belmont said. harm than reward as the current little girl. I love the designs and the than color in something that’s already He said the new character limit user-base might not like the change, patterns,” Carbone said. “I think when drawn out for me.” One thing that has made Twitter would not entice him to post more. and it won’t be worth trying to reach I color, it brings me back to a time Almeida said those who color in stand out against its many competitors Sophomore Mitchell Albecker, a new user-base. Honestly, Twitter when I was young. I have a feeling of order to relieve anxiety should rely is its strict 140 character limit which, who goes on Twitter daily and posts is successful due to its 140 character nostalgia when the book is in front of on coloring books rather than apps according to Twitter’s CEO Jack regularly, has a positive outlook on limit,” Fuschetto said. me and it makes me happy.” because the books require more Dorsey, will be changing. Dorsey Dorsey’s decision. He said he is also concerned about Carbone said she is always at ease time and focus, which helps people broke the news to the public on Jan. “People can give out more Twitter’s ability to handle long posts. when using her adult coloring books. unwind. 5 through a screenshot uploaded on information about what they want to, “I don’t think Twitter fully realizes “I keep hearing about the books Senior Gianna Jacobelli said she Twitter. and they won’t have to do the notes how the 10,000 character limit will being therapeutic and perfect for owns one adult coloring book, “Secret “At it’s core Twitter is public screenshot thing anymore,” Albecker impact their servers,” Fuschetto said. busy people. I think that’s totally Garden: An Inky Treasure Hunt and messaging. A simple way to say said. “Twitter is pushing their servers correct because it takes your mind off Coloring Book” by Johanna Basford, something, to anyone, that everyone Unlike Albecker, avid tweeter Junior through great workloads so you can the world,” Carbone said. “It’s also so which was released in 2013. in the world can see instantly,” Dorsey Gia Cammisa has concerns about the receive and send your tweets. Now, perfect because I can do the activity Basford’s publication is one of the tweeted, going on to say the social extended character count. if they were to go through with the anywhere I go.” top trending adult coloring books and media platform’s users will benefit “I feel like Twitter is meant to make character limit change, Tweets will Unlike Carbone, Junior Conor has sold approximately 1.5 million from longer tweets. short, simple messages, and if you only get larger and the stress on their Yunis said coloring books do not help copies according to The New York This change marks a significant have something long to say to your servers will increase.” him relax. Post. leap away from Twitter’s original 140 friends [and] followers, that’s what Fuschetto speculates that people “Even when I was a little kid, I “I love my coloring book. I actually character limit. Twitter started off as Facebook is for,” Cammisa said. “I will take advantage of the 10,000 never could appreciate it. Especially would like to get another one,” a text-based social network where feel 10,000 is too long, and no one characters, which would require in these books now, the designs are Jacobelli said. “I do believe that it’s a SMS messages were limited to 160 wants to read all that. It would ruin Twitter to either spread the stress so intricate. They’re frustrating when stress-relieving activity. I mean, I do characters. Twitter dedicated twenty Twitter…. This change will attract between more servers or upgrade its I can’t color in the lines or when my a lot of things. I have practice, and of these characters to Twitter handles, more teenagers that feel the need to current servers to handle the stress. marker goes right through the paper,” I watch my siblings, but when I’m according to Business and Computer make everything they do public, and According to Internet Live Stats, Yunis said. coloring, I’m usually not thinking Science Teacher Mr. Fuschetto. The they will enjoy being able to write a real time statistics website, there Yunis said he would prefer to use about that.” defining feature of this social network more about things people don’t care are 500 million tweets per day. The a coloring app in order to achieve Jacobelli said her favorite patterns was its short and concise posts. a b out .” current 140 character max means the same relaxation in a neater and are ones that make her concentrate. After Dorsey broke the news on Fuschetto also questions the that Twitter could deal with up to 70 simpler manner. She said she likes to use an array of Twitter, Twitter users replied to offer company’s decision because people billion characters daily. Now, if Twitter Coloring apps such as Colorfy colored pencils to reflect the happiness both commendation and criticism. who use Twitter generally like the 140 raises that limit to 10,000 characters, and Pigment provide a coloring she feels when she is engaging in this “I don’t really use Twitter much, character limit, and making a change there would be five trillion possible experience similar to that of a hobby. but I do follow a lot of people, and to attract additional users is a huge characters for Twitter to process each physical book. When the days seem especially long the larger limit will allow for more gamble. day. So the question remains, will the Colorfy is available for free in the and one’s agenda is cluttered, Jacobelli interesting and informative content,” “I feel the platform would face more bird be able to handle it? App Store. This virtual coloring said adult coloring books might just book allows its users to view others’ be the answer. creations and save their own colorful “It’s the best therapy for busy people. masterpieces. With Colorfy, users can Whether you think you’d like it or not, even take their own photos and color give it a shot. It could be totally worth Life hacks simplify everyday tasks them in. it,” said Jacobelli.

By Erick Estrada Jr. washing hands easier. Plus, you get a bang for your buck,” Lehman said. Life can get stressful, but with some Sophomore Sam Tozduman has an simple hacks, accomplishing daily easy hack for aspiring master chefs. It tasks can be a lot easier. This frees up is a hack Tozduman has been using time and leads to greater efficiency. for two years. Junior Nic Afonso said his life hack “I use a pants hanger to hold up a Courtesy of Erick Estrada Jr. is always successful. He uses a chip cookbook when cooking,” Tozduman clip on a tube of toothpaste so none of said. “I would recommend this hack into the key ring, causing it to open it goes to waste. because you don’t have to spend a lot up, and then you can put whatever Y SLA “Everyone struggles getting the last of money on a cookbook holder, and you want on your key ring.” NNU TR M h A AL E bit of toothpaste out anyways. So, this you get the most use out of a leftover Musso cautions that when using 4t O is an easier way of doing it,” Afonso pants hanger.” this method there are some dangers. 1 P said. “My grandfather taught me this Tozduman places the hanger on a Therefore, one must be careful not to trick when I slept over his house four cabinet handle so the cookbook sits at get his or her fingers caught when us- years ago.” eye level. ing this method. Freshman Laura Lehman has a Junior Louis Musso highly recom- “I’ve been doing this for about six unique technique for making the mends his technique of using a staple years. My mom showed me this tech- most out of a bar of soap. Once her remover in order to add items to a key nique because she used to break her soap is too small to grasp, she places ring. nails putting reward cards and keys the final bits into a stocking. Then she “It saves time and won’t hurt your on her key ring,” Musso said. uses it the same way one would use a fingers when digging your nails into Musso said he believes life hacks like bar of soap. the key ring,” Musso said. “Take the this one are beneficial. “I would recommend this hack be- [toothed] part of the staple remover “Life hacks relieve stress and make Courtesy of Stef Cilento cause it would make showering and and kind of maneuver one of the teeth life easier to live,” said Musso. Sophomore Lea So uses Crayola colored pencils to fill in a design in her coloring book. THE LIGHTHOUSE 6 NEWS/FEATURES February 2016 Obama pushes for stricter gun laws By Bernie Consalvo but would not eradicate all gun violence. “It will keep guns out of the hands of some President Obama somberly took to the podi- people, but not everyone,” Capasso said. “If um on Jan. 4 to address the extent of gun vio- someone really wants a gun, there is nothing lence in the United States. and no one that can stop them.” With tears in his eyes, he spoke about gun-re- Freshman Jon Gino said he is concerned lated tragedies including those in his hometown about the ease with which one can obtain a fire- of Chicago and the Sandy Hook Elementary arm, but he is concerned that Americans’ con- School shooting, which occurred in Connecti- stitutional rights are being diminished. cut in 2012. Obama utilized these examples to “The Second Amendment still stands today, explain the need for additional gun laws. but it doesn’t stand as strong as it used to be due “We know we can’t stop every act of violence, to rigorous laws by the government,” Gino said. every act of evil in the world. But maybe we “And the sad reality is these laws hurt the people could try to stop one act of evil, one act of vi- who use guns to protect their families the most.” olence,” Obama said in his townhall address at Obama discussed the Second Amendment in the White House. his speech. He affirmed its place in the Bill of According to smartgunlaws.org, an informa- Rights but said there are still ways gun violence tional website about guns, every year in Amer- can be reduced. ica, there are approximately 31,076 gun-related “I believe in the Second Amendment. They’re deaths. This averages to 85 deaths per day or written on paper. That guarantees the right to three deaths every hour. bear arms,” Obama said. “No matter how many Sophomore Alyssa Capasso said she supports times people try to twist my words around, I proposals to strengthen gun laws on a state-by- taught Constitutional Law. I know a little bit state basis. about this.” “We definitely need laws that control the buy- Despite Obama’s speech last month, the debate ing and regulations of guns in our country,” wages on. Capasso said. “But I believe that laws should be U.S. History Teacher Ms. Cesari highlighted centered more towards state government, as a the complexity of the nation’s gun debate. Courtesy of Whitehouse.gov and Official White House photographer Pete Souza person in Wisconsin with no houses near has a “Americans should have the right to bear In the Blue Room of the White House on Jan. 5, President Barack Obama talks with people whose lives have very different circumstance compared to some- arms,” Cesari said. “Some gun’s are a problem in been impacted by gun violence, prior to announcing executive actions that the administration is taking to re- one in New York City.” the U.S. and no matter what, something must be duce gun violence. Capasso said more gun laws would be helpful done to stop gun violence.” American Dream Complex in the They see me rollin’ Meadowlands set to open next year Public safety concerns arise over hoverboards By Kislande Joseph including Kean University in Union, By Kelly Weckstein entertainment options. this mall contains so many different have also banned them on campus. While such a structure may prove to things,” Ripp said. “The aquarium Hoverboards were one of the The hoverboards have brought For 13 years, the American Dream be a fun place for leisure, Raguseo said is the most interesting because you hottest Christmas gifts in 2015 and disturbing memories of the fire that Complex, previously known as the he has some concerns as a resident of don’t really see an aquarium in every have been a trending topic on social took place at Seton Hall University in Xanadu, has been a curiosity for all Bergen County living in Lyndhurst. mall.” media this year because of celebrity 2000, which resulted in the deaths of who have seen it in the Meadowlands. “I wasn’t too happy about the Ripp said his favorite aspect of the endorsements. However, are these three students, according to ABC. The unique orange-striped and blue- Xanadu opening because, as I’m plans is the movie theater. products really safe? “They are not safe at all. I think tiled outer appearance has shocked sure you know, there is already a “If it’s a good theater, such as Sophomore Frida Sanchez said the that it is a good idea to ban them on drivers who ride along the New Jersey lot of traffic in this area. So, from a Kerasotes [in Secaucus], it would be boards are not as safe as they could the sidewalks and campuses,” Senior Turnpike for years. resident standpoint, I really did not a closer theater to go to rather than be due to failures involving the new Briana Thomas said. “Many people According to The Atlantic Magazine, want it to open, and I was glad there Clifton or Paramus,” Ripp said. technology. Knockoff versions of the fall off of them, [wearing] a helmet this mysterious structure will open were always delays with the Xanadu,” While Ripp is excited about plans hoverboard, which sell for less than or not.” as a center for entertainment and Raguseo said. “I really don’t think we for the interior of the complex, he the $400-$1000 retail price, were According to Patty Davis, a shopping in 2017. need another shopping mall so close said the outside of the building is leading to explosions and fires when U.S. Consumer Product Safety Italian Teacher Mr. Raguseo had to home when we have several in the immensely unappealing. they overcharged. Commission spokesperson who was worked closely with developers during are a .” “The exterior is extremely ugly. It’s Despite these safety issues, Sanchez quoted in People Magazine, in the the early stages of its construction. Raguseo said despite potential just a giant rainbow,” Ripp said. still likes her hoverboard, which she three days after Christmas, there had He said prior to teaching, he was a traffic, there are financial benefits Sophomore Carmellina Blasi has got as a Christmas gift. been at least 39 hoverboard-related financial analyst for The Children’s that accompany the American Dream a similar opinion about the exterior “Although a struggle to get used to, emergency room visits. Place stores. Complex. appearance. it can be fun to use. But again, there’s Junior Cierra Wartel, who got a “We were supposed to have a store “One thing that is positive about the “I thought this building was massive hoverboard for Christmas, likes her put in the Xanadu, and I was in [American Dream Complex] opening and the coloring of the building was hoverboard but said it could cause charge of budgeting for the expenses is that it will create jobs and possibly very odd,” Blasi said. “The colors “They are not safe at all. people to get lazy. for building that store and operating jobs for my students,” Raguseo said. are very vibrant and do not go well “It takes away walking, but in reality, that store,” Raguseo said. “One of my He said if the county needs the tax together.” I think that it is a good you will not be riding this up and tasks every year was to prepare the revenue to improve roads, schools Blasi said she is also concerned that idea to ban them on the downhill or downstairs,” Wartel said. annual budget for the upcoming year. and social programs, it may be worth the developers are trying to combine sidewalks and campuses.” Her advice to other riders is to So, every year we were budgeting the inconvenience. too many ideas into too small a space. exercise caution, particularly when for a store in the Xanadu, except the Sophomore Tom Ripp said the “I think the mall will start off using the hoverboard for the first Xanadu was never built or opened.” American Dream’s features are successful, but I think as time goes on, time. The idea for building a mall was first definitely enticing. it will die out because the excitement always going to be some type of risk,” “If you’re just starting out and never proposed in 2003. Due to bankruptcy, “I think it’s pretty interesting that of the new place is gone,” said Blasi. Sanchez said. done it before, get on and off while the switching of ownership and Safety risks are the reason that, holding on to something stationary in harsh cold snow that piled up on the according to ABC, New York has case you lose your balance, and don’t building, the project was postponed banned the boards on roadways, push the hoverboard over the said for several years, according to The trails and sidewalks. As of this year, mph on the box because that causes Atlantic. one must have a helmet and permit to the hoverboard to become unsteady Now under the ownership of the ride in public places. and that’s how you get hurt,” said Triple Five Group, which is known Some colleges and universities, Wartel. for creating extensive malls such as the Mall of America in Minnesota, the largest mall in the United States, this structure is getting set to open for business. According to the American Dream’s website, the Triple Five Group mall will have features including an amusement park, aquarium, Ferris Wheel, indoor ski slope, miniature golf course, movie theaters, National Hockey League-sized ice rink, performing arts theater and water Courtesy of Kelly Weckstein park. It is also expected to contain over The American Dream Complex is set to open in 2017. It is expected to include shopping, 400 retailers, services, restaurants and dining and entertainment options for consumers. Courtesy of Jillian Cancela THE LIGHTHOUSE February 2016 NEWS/FEATURES 7 ‘The Winds of Winter’ delayed By Danny Flusk

George R.R. Martin, the mastermind behind “Game of Thrones,” announced in a blogpost on Jan. 2 that the release of his newest book, “The Winds of Winter,” has been delayed. Since HBO’s TV adaptation has now caught up to the books, the release of Martin’s latest novel was expected to coincide with the new season of episodes set to commence in April. However, Martin wrote in his blog that it would still take months to finish his book. “No one could possibly be more disappoint- ed than me,” Martin wrote, explaining he had hoped to finish writing “The Winds of Winter” before 2016. However, he announced last month that he still had hundreds of pages left to write. Junior Kevin McNamara, who has read the “Game of Thrones” series, said he does not mind that the TV episodes will air before the release of Martin’s latest novel. Since the book series includes details that are not covered in the TV show, McNamara said watching the upcoming season will not spoil the novel for him. “The books have hinted at something that has not happened in the show, though. So, it is still Courtesy of Bobby Giangeruso farther ahead in some aspects,” McNamara said. Beginning in Season Four of “Full House,” the opening credits showed the Tanner family having a picnic in San Francisco’s Alamo Square Park with Victorian houses McNamara said he is not disappointed in Mar- known as “Postcard Row” in the background. tin for failing to meet his deadline. “He has every right to do with it what he feels is best. The delay will not negatively affect my Everywhere you look, there’s a ‘Full House’ fan opinion of him as a writer at all,” McNamara said. By Gina Minervini and best friend Kimmy Gibbler (Andrea Bar- the best character, and everyone else gets mar- Like McNamara, English Teacher Ms. Burns ber). This storyline shares many parallels with ried or is in a relationship except him,” Catelli said she does not doubt Martin had valid rea- Whatever happened to Kimmy and Stephanie? the original show, in which D.J.'s father Dan- said. “Joey is my favorite character just because sons for postponing his upcoming book release. What about Danny, Michelle, Nicky and Alex? ny (Bob Saget) asked his best friend Joey and of how funny he always is.” “Based on the impressiveness of the show—the Do eldest daughter D.J. (Candace Cameron- brother-in-law Jesse to move in and assist him Some “Full House” viewers have followed the intricacies of the plot and subplots, the nuances Bure) and high school sweetheart Steve (Scott in raising D.J. and her sisters after his wife’s pass- show since the beginning. English Teacher Miss of each character—I feel like [Martin’s] process Weinger) end up together? Does funny guy Joey ing. Rendzia said she has seen every season of “Full can’t be questioned. If everyone wants it to be Gladstone (David Alan Coulier) ever find love? Sophomore Eric Remo, who watches “Full House,” watching it when it originally aired as good as it has been, let the man do his thing. Do Aunt Becky (Lori Loughlin) and Uncle Jesse House” reruns at 9 p.m. on Nick at Nite, said he during her college years. You can’t rush genius,” Burns said. (John Stamos) continue living in a renovated at- relates most to Uncle Jesse’s character. Rendzia said of all the sitcom’s characters, she While she has not read the “Game of Thrones” tic or do they eventually decide to move to less “I believe I'm similar to Uncle Jesse because relates most to Danny. books, Burns is a fan of the HBO series. cramped quarters? of our hair, and we always wanna help out our “As a single parent, raising a child by myself, “I tend to prefer a book to a film or television These are some of the questions that go through friends and family. But if I were on the show, you always need people to help you, and I am a adaptation, but the show is just so good, I find the minds of those who have avidly watched the I would wanna be Danny because he seems so little obsessive when it comes to housekeeping, it hard to imagine that would be the case here,” hit sitcom “Full House.” The series—whose final chill and acts like a father figure at the same people not sharing things and things going in Burns said. “I have enjoyed watching the show episode aired on May 23, 1995—continued for time,” Remo said. “‘Full House’ is a very funny their own place,” Rendzia said. without any knowledge of what would happen. eight seasons and totaled 192 episodes. and relatable show. From the characters to ep- Rendzia said she was excited to hear about It made the experience much more exciting.” According to TV.com, early in its run, “Full isodes, there isn’t any moment that leaves me “Fuller House” because she believes it is going Junior Mykolas Perevicius, who follows the House” received poor reviews for being too questioning, ‘Why am I watching this show to be a great continuation of the original series. show and book series, said Martin has made a “cheesy,” but it remained popular despite the again? This is idiotic and only for 90s people.’” “I can't wait to see how the relationships are as poor choice in deciding to go ahead with the TV criticism. Season after season, viewers of all ages Upon first hearing about “Fuller House,” adults between the sisters and Kimmy Gibbler. shows prior to publishing the next book. remained loyal to the sitcom because of its hu- Remo said he wondered if the announcement I want to see how they become grownups but “If we choose to watch the new season first, morous plotlines and quirky characters. was true. However, when he saw the trailer on don't lose the essence of Kimmy Gibbler being now we have an image in our head. Reading is Twenty years after the show’s series finale, YouTube the day it was released, Remo said he Kimmy Gibbler,” Rendzia said. all about creating your own ideas and images for some fans had lost all hope of having their “Full automatically got “hyped.” He plans to devote According to Rendzia, the magic of “Full new characters or events,” Perevicius said. House” questions answered. This, however, a weekend to watching episodes of the spin-off House” is that it presents a balance of humor He has decided to put off watching the upcom- changed in December after Netflix announced upon its release. and morality. She said it is a program that is ap- ing season of “Game of Thrones” until after he that it will be releasing “Fuller House.” All 13 Junior Gianna Catelli said she was excited to pealing to parents because it conveys important reads “The Winds of Winter.” episodes of the series spin-off will be available learn about “Fuller House” because she will get lessons in a way that kids can enjoy. Nonetheless, Perevicius said he remains excit- on Netflix as of Feb. 26. to see what happens to the characters when they “Look at the whole thing about how… family ed about new “Game of Thrones” content and According to IMDb.com, Cameron-Bure will are all grown up. Catelli is a loyal fan who has stays together, how you help each other out and Martin’s upcoming novel, which Perevicius be- continue in her role as D.J. Tanner-Fuller, now watched every “Full House” episode, but she how you pitch in when times are rough,” Rend- lieves is worth the wait. all grown up and a widowed mother of three. said there is one aspect of the show she wishes zia said. “All the little issues add up to that one “I personally would prefer to have the book Struggling with her recent loss and now raising were different. main thought: to stick together through good come out later, and be a masterpiece, rather than her sons single-handedly, D.J. calls in the help “I think I’d change how Joey never gets mar- times and bad. You are there for each other and sooner and be disappointing,” said Perevicius. of her younger sister Stephanie (Jodie Sweetin) ried or ever really has a girlfriend because he's you'll get through it.” Faculty and students dream of their celebrity valentines

By Francesca Caliguire Larissa Sales, Matt Sales, Rebecca Tristan Freshman Freshman Rossano, Benitez, While having a sweetheart to spend Sophomore Junior Valentine’s Day with can be fun, fan- Celebrity Celebrity tasizing about a celebrity valentine Valentine: Valentine: Celebrity Celebrity can be equally exciting. Calum Hood Ariana Valentine: Valentine: Here are some faculty and students Grande Harry Styles Jennifer who know exactly whom they would Lawrence select as their celebrity valentines:

Alyssa Shqipe Zach Mr. Kropa, Mrs. Wilson, Mezzina, Cosovic, Rossano, Physical Math Teacher Junior Senior Senior Education Teacher Celebrity Celebrity Celebrity Celebrity Valentine: Valentine: Valentine: Valentine: Celebrity Ryan Gosling Liam Payne Shawn Emma Stone Valentine: Mendes Kate Beckinsale

Photos courtesy of Francesca Caliguire THE LIGHTHOUSE 8 COLUMNS February 2016 Dream-Do-It-Yourself Eva’s Beauty Corner String art state with heart add-on Crazed over By Jessie Bolton Step 4: Remove the printed map of the state af- ter all the nails have been hammered in. Valentine’s Day gifts don’t have to consist of Kylie Lip Kit roses or candy. They can be personalized and Step 5: Knot one end of the first colored string made with care. Show your love this holiday on a nail that traces the state. By Eva Pelidis with a string art state, and add a heart in a place that has special significance. There is a saying that a lady should never walk Don’t have a valentine? Treat yourself to this out of the house without wearing lipstick. Now, piece of art created to reflect your own style and with the Kylie Lip Kit by Kylie Jenner, you will color choices. never want to. Available in three shades—Candy K, Dolce K Courtesy of Eva Pelidis Materials needed: and True Brown K—this liquid lipstick and lip Achieve your Jenner pout with the Kylie Lip Kit. hammer, small brass nails, wooden board at liner cover all the color bases from soft pink to least half an inch thick, two colors of embroidery neutral tan and deep brown. Released on Dec. Volleyball Coach Ringen, I was able to secure floss, map of state of your choice, multi-surface 1, the Kylie Lip Kit sold out in minutes and the one Kylie Lip Kit in Dolce K on the second paint product’s website, lipkitbykylie.com, crashed launch date, Dec. 14. because of high volumes of cyber traffic. I am happy to say this product stays true to This led makeup enthusiasts to eBay, where the its promises. According to its website, the liquid Kylie Lip Kit was being resold for up to $10,000, lipstick is “the perfect blend of waxes, silicone according to The Huffington Post. Leaving her and polymers.” The product’s unique formula Step 6: Connect the string from the nails out- fans and beauty bloggers in despair, Jenner offers high pigmentation as well as long-lasting lining the state to the nails that form the heart. made an announcement that more launches results. With its doe-foot applicator, the lipstick would be coming soon. glides onto the lips leaving a luxurious, matte Step 7: Once the whole state is filled with string, Even before this product’s release, I was hesi- velvet finish. knot the end of the string around the nail where tant about purchasing the Kylie Lip Kit. Howev- As an added bonus, the Kylie Lip Kit has a you have finished and cut it. er, at $29, the price of the two products included sweet, cake batter scent that will win over every is fairly reasonable. makeup lover’s heart. This liquid lipstick and Step 8: Next, start the heart by knotting the After deciding the purchase was worth it, I got liner truly shine above many of my personal lip- second colored string around a nail in the heart my computer, iPad and phone ready, and with stick favorites. and then cross from one side to the other until the help of friends, and especially Softball and the whole heart is filled in with the second color. Knot the string around the nail where you have finished and cut it. Julie’s Book Nook: Literature Review Step 1: Paint the board and let it dry completely. Step 9: To add a personal touch, you can write a little message in the corner of the board. A book for the brokenhearted By Julie Cappiello

“I liked hurting girls.” The first line is all you need to read to wonder about the journey you are about to embark upon. If you are tired of Valentine’s Day and love laughing at the pain of others, consider spending your Feb. 14 reading “Diary of an Oxygen Thief.” Written by an anonymous author, the book highlights a self-destructive individual whose main goal is to function without caring about the casualties. The novella tells the pathetic sto- ry of a misogynist drunk who recalls the terrible Step 2: Tape the map on the board. karma of his sad life. The author recounts the countless times he Step 3: Outline the state with the small nails and would stumble into bars across London, En- make a small heart of nails in your desired lo- gland to meet women just so he could break cation. their hearts. He tells the tales of the female vic- tims he destroyed before hitting rock bottom. The novella centers upon the narrator’s strug- gles with alcoholism and his constant need to harm others, but the reader can relax knowing Courtesy of Julie Cappiello that he is able to make a semi-turn around. “Diary of an Oxygen Thief” was published anony- Though he takes steps to get his life on track, mously by Anonymous Publishing, Inc. in 2011. he never makes the crucial decision to seek pro- fessional help. This leads the reader to essential- themselves rooting for the speaker to pull his life ly embody a therapist who listens to the narra- together. At the same time, there is a feeling that tor’s stories of depression, obsession and hurt. he should get what he deserves and then some. Photos courtesy of Alexa Khantzian “Diary of an Oxygen Thief” is the most dis- Spend Valentine’s Day with this book, and you This simple Do-It-Yourself is a timeless piece of art- organized text you will ever read. However, it is will be sure to laugh, cry and feel utterly disgust- work that shows home is where the heart is. also the most honest. Strangely, readers will find ed... in the most entertaining way.

Monthly Recipe Gift your sweetheart with these sweet Red Velvet Whoopie Pies this Valentine’s Day By Jillian Cancela ½ teaspoon baking soda butter and sugar until light and fluffy. 7. Bake for ten minutes at 375 degrees. 1 teaspoon fresh coffee grinds Then, beat in the egg and vanilla. Stir 8. Allow whoopie pies to cool com- Valentine’s Day is a day that you can 2 tablespoons liquid red food color- in food coloring. pletely before filling them. show your loved ones how much they ing 3. In a separate medium-sized bowl, truly mean to you. This holiday, ex- whisk together flour, baking soda, Directions for filling: press your feelings by creating a batch Ingredients for Filling: salt, cocoa powder and coffee grinds. 1. Using a food processor, finely crush of heart-shaped Red Velvet Whoopie ½ stick butter This will ensure that the dry ingredi- the Oreos. This can also be done by Pies. 4 ounces softened cream cheese ents do not have too many lumps. putting the cookies into a plastic stor- 1 cup marshmallow cream 4. Add the flour mixture into the age bag and rolling over the bag with Ingredients for Whoopie Pies: 11 Oreo cookies creamed butter, alternating with the a rolling pin. 1 stick softened butter buttermilk. 2. In a mixing bowl, beat together 1 cup brown sugar Directions for Whoopie Pies: 5. Take a plastic storage bag or piping butter, cream cheese and marshmal- 1 egg 1. While preheating your oven to bag and put the batter in it. Push all low cream. Fold in crushed Oreos. 1 teaspoon vanilla 375 degrees, use parchment paper to the batter onto one side. If using a 3. Spoon the filling on one cake then ½ cup buttermilk (If you don’t have draw multiple hearts, about 2 square plastic storage bag, cut off one of bot- place another on top. buttermilk, mix milk with two tea- inches using a stencil. After you have tom corners. When the Whoopie Pies are com- spoons of lemon juice.) finished tracing hearts, flip over the 6. Pipe the batter on your baking plete, store them in the refrigerator 2 cups all-purpose flour parchment paper and lay it flat on a sheet using the heart-traced parch- and remove about an hour before Courtesy of Jillian Cancela 3 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa baking sheet. ment paper as a guide. Fill the heart serving. These red velvet whoopie pies will fill you powder 2. In a large mixing bowl, beat your shape entirely. up with love and warmth. THE LIGHTHOUSE February 2016 OPINIONS 9 Letters to the Editor The Lighthouse Dear Editors, ious perspectives and vital insight which led to a the game was very detailed. I like how you ex- Lyndhurst High School My favorite article in the January Issue of The decrease of anxiety. plained the team’s work ethic before the season Lighthouse was “Girls basketball hopes to hoop This article shows how important it is to apply started. It seems that the team is determined to 400 Weart Avenue it up” by Kyle Bouteloupt. Kyle’s use of quotes to numerous schools, talk to those who have ex- be the best team in the league. The involvement Lyndhurst, NJ 07071 from various people helped me understand dif- perienced similar stress and work hard. Elban- of the LHS Bear Cave was well explained too. 201-896-2100 ferent perspectives. As a freshman on the girls na received quotes from seniors and a guidance It appears that Lyndhurst has a very supportive basketball team, I agree with my coach, captain counselor who all expressed their application and energetic student section. Follow us on Twitter: and teammates: if we continue to work as a team stories. I agree with all of Elbanna’s statements I really cannot disagree with anything men- @LHSLighthouse and stay positive, we will be extremely success- and cannot wait to read her next piece of work. tioned in this article. Everything is very well-ex- ful. Sincerely, plained and relates back to the importance of ______The headline suits the article well because it Susane Morozewicz, Class of 2019 the boys basketball team. I feel that the basket- is exactly what we, as a team, hope for. Each ball team can make a dramatic turnaround and Adviser: day at practice, we work hard on our dribbling Dear Editors, get its season back on track. Ms. Pastor skills, shooting, layups and running. We do this I just finished reading “Uber and Lyft provide Sincerely, because, at games, these skills are valuable and convenience” by Vincent DiTonto, and I real- Max Vigliotti, Class of 2017 Editors-in-Chief: allow us to “hoop it up.” ly enjoyed it. I think it was a great idea to let Sincerely, students know about these apps. Many people Dear Editors, Nicole Plonski Jamie Lynn Connors, Class of 2019 in this school don’t exactly live close by, and it’s My favorite article was “What’s ‘APPening?” Ashley Stephens great that they could find a lift back so they don’t by Nicole Plonski. I really enjoyed reading this Dear Editors, have to walk. It could be useful if somebody has article because it opened my eyes to new ideas. Staff Directors: My favorite article in the January Issue of The practice and would not want to walk in the cold. RetailMeNot seems like a very useful app that Lighthouse was “And the acceptance goes to…” It is a great idea to let everyone know about this can save my family and me a lot of money. As for Julie Cappiello by Assmaa Elbanna. For as long as I can remem- topic. UrbanSpoon, I will most likely not end up using Eva Pelidis ber, others have always informed me of the im- Sincerely, it, though it is very cool to see what the app store portance of staying determined. One’s determi- Paolo Turano, Class of 2017 community is coming up with. Content Editors: nation in school is supposed to help the person All around, most of these apps were well de- acquire acceptances into colleges. Dear Nick Carnevale, scribed, and they definitely all caught my atten- Jessie Bolton As a high school student, I often worry wheth- I just read “Boys basketball tips off season tion. Keep up the good work. Assmaa Elbanna er or not I will be accepted into my dream with close score.” I like the introduction of the Sincerely, Gina Minervini school. However, Elbanna’s article included var- passage. The description of the last seconds of Rodrigo Nogueira, Class of 2019 Nick Pacheco Julie Pacillo Head-to-Head Jennifer Wartel Staff Writers: Brian Arroyave Safety first, social media later Kyle Bouteloupt By Vincent DiTonto dia. These conflicts are even worse when kids Francesca Caliguire are involved and freely stating their opinions Should social media Jillian Cancela Social networking sites such as Twitter and about various pictures or topics. Also, since lit- Nick Carnevale Facebook play a huge role in modern life. These tle kids tend to follow the older ones, if they see have a minimum are amazing tools for keeping in touch with teens arguing and cursing at one another, they Stef Cilento family and friends, especially those one does not will follow their example. age requirement? Bernie Consalvo get to see often. However, these social networks Lastly, young people are particularly vulner- Kristina DeRobertis are not for kids. able to “catfishing,” when people pretend to be The most important reason children should somebody they are not. Using their false iden- Vincent DiTonto stay away from social networking websites is tities, they create conflict and take advantage of Stephen Dittamo that they contain content that is inappropriate those they deceive. Alyssa Engels for young audiences. The Social News Daily, a news website, reports According to InternetSafety101.org, 12 per- that 83 million social media accounts are faked No Erick Estrada Jr. cent of kids report having “frequently” wit- or duplicated. Children suffer the consequences Danny Flusk nessed cruel behaviors on social networking when they use networking sites that may expose Kayla Friend sites. These observations cause kids to use bad them to dangerous adults. The results can be language and act in ways that are unacceptable. tragic. Yes Alexis Gerbasio Rather than viewing negative content, kids The internet can be a dangerous place. By Kislande Joseph should be playing outside and enjoying them- staying away from social media, kids avoid ex- Katie McMaster selves. Allowing a child to stay online 24/7 leads posure to unfavorable content, social isolation, to a social media addiction that is hard to get rid possible addiction, drama and adults with bad Teslim Olunlade Courtesy of Vincent DiTonto of later in life. The last thing a parent wants to do intentions. Those under the age of 13 should be Nicolette Pezzolla In a survey of 84 LHS students, 54 said social media is instill bad habits. socializing with their friends and family in per- should have a minimum age requirement. Thirty said George Rausch It is no secret that teens and adults can occa- son rather than on social media platforms. a minimum age requirement is unnecessary. sionally take part in drama wars on social me- Megan Rudden Angelica Santomauro Megan Starrett Head-to-Head Raymond Valenzuela Kelly Weckstein Social media should not be restricted by age Contributing Photographer: Adrian Baranowski By Megan Starrett tion. By being exposed to important, real world social media to communicate. Monica Baranowski topics at a young age, children can grow more It is undeniable that young internet users Bobby Giangeruso Social media: it’s everywhere and embedded open-minded and intelligent. Social media can will come across content that is inappropriate in our lives. While some may argue that age re- also lead a person to develop unique interests for their age. However, it is important to keep Stephen Giordano strictions for social media participation would and hobbies related to fashion, music and art. in mind that these children are going to be Alexa Khantzian make the internet safer for young children, this exposed to sensitive material sooner or later. Sean Leonard is simply unrealistic. Generally, this content does not have an impact Young people will always find a way to cre- on their everyday lives, and kids move forward By exposing children to social media, Contributing Artist: ate accounts on the platforms they want to ac- young people will develop without any harmful, long-term effects. cess. Therefore, it is more useful to educate kids Parents may also be concerned about their Tasneem Chowdhury about how to use social media effectively rather an understanding of the power of kids using social media as a platform to make than try to restrict them. words. Social media can help youths hurtful statements. However, kids are generally Opinion articles do not reflect the opinions of the entire staff, only the I will admit that I am guilty of having a Face- become aware that what they post not the culprits. In my experiences, teenagers book and Instagram account before I was 13 and adults are most likely to make inappropriate writers themselves. years old, the age these networks formally allow will remain online forever. comments and start fights online. users to create an account. I ignored the restric- By exposing children to social media, young The Lighthouse is a free forum that tions because it was easy to do so. people will develop an understanding of the accepts letters to the editors. Letters can be submitted to Ms. Pastor in Room 234. Looking back, I still have no regrets about my Aside from gaining knowledge, people of all power of words. Social media can help youths However, they must be signed with your actions because social media has allowed me to ages utilize social media to maintain lifelong re- become aware that what they post will remain first and last name in order to be obtain so much knowledge about a variety of lationships. Whether corresponding with fam- online forever. considered for publication. topics such as social inequality, mental health ily or keeping in touch with a friend one met Ultimately, it is ludicrous to restrict people care and current issues in other countries, on vacation or through extracurricular involve- from a resource that is so widespread. Age does The staff reserves the right to edit which are important but not taught in school. ments, social media makes it easy to stay con- not determine maturity. However, even if it did, material and reject any content Social media has a reputation of being a dis- nected. Particularly since talking on the phone it is the job of parents, not corporations, to cre- not suitable for publication. traction. However, it is also a source of educa- is less common nowadays, young people rely on ate boundaries that are appropriate for children. THE LIGHTHOUSE 10 OPINIONS February 2016 Question: If you could live in any fictitious world from a book, movie or show, where would it be and why? Column Column What would What would Newman do? Cecilia do? Compiled by Ashley Stephens Compiled by Ashley Stephens

I have a lot of choices here with books, movies It would be my utmost dream to live on the or shows. Now, when I get books as a choice, planet Pandora from the movie “Avatar.” I long right away I have to stretch that to “comic for nothing more than a place that lacks all the books.” However, comic book worlds are defi- Courtesy of Jessie Bolton bad aspects that plague our world today. Courtesy of Jessie Bolton nitely not places I’d want to live. The way of life of the Na’vi, the blue human- Metropolis? Did you see that last “Superman” Regarding TV shows, I would stay away from oid creatures, starkly contrasts ours. They are It would bring me peace of mind to know that movie? General Zod and Superman had a mega anything animated. Sure, invulnerability to ex- shrewd because they live in harmony with the I found The One and that our all-encompassing fight and destroyed like every tall building in the plosives, stabbing weapons, firearms, large falls world around them and see the true nature of love will never diminish. Grieving for someone entire city. They laser-eyed each other constant- to the ground and all the others sound great. things when they look upon them. who is alive is the worst kind of torture. I would ly, threw heavy objects like cars at each other However, why do I have to live in a cartoon There’s this Japanese art called Kintsugi where never want to go through that. and engaged in plenty of other acts of destruc- world with all those dangers? Going into other broken pottery is amended with gold. Those There’s this aura of serenity that hugs the world tion. Any time they missed, three or four people worlds like “South Park” or “Rick and Morty”? golden cracks strewn throughout the pottery of Pandora. At night the forests become aglow definitely died by an eye-laser or some bus that No thanks. I have enough terrorizing things to make it beautiful. I see this art as a representa- with the vibrant hues of purple, green and blue. was thrown, which was full of innocent com- worry about in my current world. tion of the Na’vi because their resilience comes I can see myself sitting on the lush grass and muters who all died being used as a projectile. It’s a definite “no” with real world shows. I’m from the adversities that line their skins. There- letting my hands sway gently above the pristine New York of the Marvel Universe should just definitely staying away from “Grey’s Anatomy.” fore, they can never forget the lessons they’ve waters as if I were playing a harp. be renamed “Death Now City” with massive EVERY PATIENT DIES. Every single one! Now, learned after gluing themselves back together. My eyes would become wearier and my people have told me they have seen them save They can collect happiness and fill their cups breaths deeper as the wind would kiss my skin. a patient, but I never have. I’m not a regular with it because they don’t wait for perfect cir- It’s a trance in peace that I’ve only ever got to ex- It’s a definite “no” with real world viewer, but why would I continue to watch this cumstances to find it. perience once in my life, which was in the days I shows. I’m definitely staying away show? If I did, I’d never go to a hospital ever The Na’vi lead simple lives but are much more lived in the country of Nicaragua. again because I’d be fully convinced that the content than we will ever be. What I wouldn’t The forests wouldn’t glow, but the hundreds of from “Grey’s Anatomy.” doctors are all trying to “hook-up” with each give to wake up in one of the many hammocks twinkling stars would illuminate the night sky. EVERY PATIENT DIES. Every other, ignoring my health care and now I’m a hung throughout the highest level of the Home- My eyes loved to drink up all the beautiful scen- single one! Now, people have told me dead man! Thanks, guys. tree in which they live. They sleep together in ery, and till this day the memories never fade So we’re left with movies, and now we have sizable groups, which evokes a closeness that we even though I was a mere child then. they have seen them save a patient, some action of possibilities. Movies can bring lack today. I dream of going back to my home country but I never have. you into a world and then have sequels that can And even though they awaken at the crack of and settling there because as nice as the New expand on that world. Two hours to give you dawn, this wouldn’t bring about dread in me. It’s York skyline is to look at, the city just doesn’t do details are always better than a half hour show. Pandora for crying out loud. Who would ever it for me. If I go outside tonight, I won’t be greet- alien invasions, psychotic killers that live in Now, what movie do I choose? Definitely not the want to stay asleep? ed by the stars, but by a sky that’s been black- Hell’s Kitchen and heroes that maybe can save world of my favorite movie, “GoodFellas.” I like Becoming a warrior has its many perks, one ened by the glow of our artificial lights. you with a mutant spider-webbing, even though my neck non-slashed. of them being the chance to get your very own The world’s natural beauty is becoming obliter- they unreliably couldn’t save their own legal Hell, I’d even go with a romantic comedy world, Mountain Banshee, those wicked awesome ated day by day. The question that I juggle con- guardian. No thanks. or a “chick flick” world where I wouldn’t have to dragons that we’ve all wanted at one point. Get- stantly in my mind is how long will it take before Now Metropolis is arguably a cakewalk com- worry about insane violence like in “Superman” ting a Banshee will serve as my rite of passage every single star is completely wiped from the pared to Gotham City, but even the best day in or “Batman.” I feel like I’m getting closer now. into my clan, but to be honest, I may chicken night sky? Gotham means a dark and cloudy day of horri- Hmmmmmmm, maybe the world of “Step out at first since I would have to venture to the One of the fundamental beliefs of the Na’vi is ble weather. The question of running into hom- Brothers”? Hilarious comedy, yet I’m living in Hallelujah Mountains, find the Banshee that that “All energy is only borrowed and one day icidal maniacs on a daily basis is not an “if,” but the beautiful setting of California with an op- calls to me and then cross my fingers I don’t die you have to give it back.” They treat their lands “how many?” Would I really want to come home tion to sail around the world? That sounds good as I form Iknimaya (a bond) with it by plugging with utmost care because they know it won’t be on a “great day,” in a city that’s dark and cloudy to me.... Book it! At least I know I will always both of our neural queues together. theirs forever; they owe their future generations every day, telling my lovely fiancé that, “Yeah, it have the good old Catalina Wine Mixer to go This lifetime connection will give me control a clean environment. was an easy day. I only had to dodge three psy- to! We all know it’s all about the Catalina Wine over them because we’ll become like one. I be- We gave a big thanks to global warming these chopathic mastermind murderers today!” Mixer.... Pow pow! lieve this is why the Na’vi have such a deep re- past few weeks for giving us warm weather, but spect for other creatures. this rise in temperature has scientists on edge We abuse animals in our world by killing because they are seeing the trouble humanity is them in droves without a second thought, but in, which is an effect of the environmental pol- the Na’vi only kill when necessary and try to do lution that we’ve created. What would you do? it in a way that brings the least amount of pain Manmade greenhouse gas emissions trap the Every other month, The Lighthouse will invite to them. They understand that the animals are sun’s heat, which ends up melting the ice in just as much alive as they are. So, they don’t treat Greenland and Antarctica at alarming rates. If a student to write a column that will appear them as inferior. we don’t take action to reduce these emissions, The hopeless romantic in me couldn’t help but then in just a couple thousands of years, our beside “What Would Newman Do?” If you take note of the emotional mating bonds be- world will be completely remapped because of tween Na’vi couples too. Seeing my parents’ di- a substantial rise in the sea level. And this is just envision your words next to Mr. Newman’s, vorce left me with a sense of uncertainty for the one out of the numerous environmental prob- please contact Ms. Pastor in Room 234, prospects of marriage, but as a Na’vi, I wouldn’t lems our world is facing. In Pandora there is need to worry because the divine deity Eywa none of this. and explain that you would like to be selected. would look into our futures and prevent the It is my heaven, pure in every sense of the bonding if she saw that our connection would word. If only I got the chance to wake up in that only lead to despair. world instead of the one I did this morning… L ve has lost its meaning

By Raymond Valenzuela showing affection or offering a compliment. -Ev ple do not like obligations because they repre- mercial holiday. In 2014, The Huffington Post eryday acts of kindness speak louder than ex- sent responsibility rather than enjoyment. Con- reported that it is celebrated by 60 percent of Valentine’s Day marks a very popular and im- sequently, Valentine’s Day has just become an Americans and that spending for this special portant day in the lives of many. It is a day when excuse to receive expensive gifts that don’t have day reaches approximately $18 billion. love seems to fill the air and money becomes There are people who believe any real value. Those who choose to celebrate Valentine’s Day irrelevant. Valentine’s Day is a necessary According to a 2009 survey administered by will not only spend a lot of money to show their There are people who believe Valentine’s Day Angeline Close Scheinbaum, an associate pro- love, but those really overpriced roses that get is a necessary holiday, but in all honesty, they’re holiday, but in all honesty, fessor of marketing at the University of Texas at purchased will die in less than a week. completely wrong. True love does not require its they’re completely wrong. Austin, 63 percent of males and 31 percent of Don’t get me wrong. I like to be generous and own special day when affection must be shown females feel obligated to give a gift to their part- show affection to my loved ones, but Valentine’s and people must shower each other with gifts. ners on Valentine’s Day. This statistic reflects the Day is completely overrated and unnecessary. Instead, people should surprise their loved pensive gifts because the little things count the common mentality that Valentine’s Day is a hol- If you really love someone, express your feel- ones throughout the year with meaningful ac- most in life. iday of duty rather than devotion. ings daily, not just when a materialistic holiday tions such as treating their sweetheart to a date, Feb. 14 has become a day of obligation. Peo- Valentine’s Day is nothing more than a com- makes you feel obligated. THE LIGHTHOUSE February 2016 SPORTS 11 Boys basketball loses traction against rival Rutherford

By Nick Carnevale set a full-court press, meaning that defensive good reputation, LHS fought hard, only losing record of 3-11. The final game will be on Feb. 26 players covered the entire court. LHS reacted by by 11 points to the private school. away against Kearny High School. It was Jan. 15 and the boys basketball players becoming anxious, which led to weak shot and As of Feb. 1, the boys basketball team held a were feeling the stress, knowing they would be pass selections. going up against Rutherford High School in an “We were the first ones to score, and the game away game. went back and forth for a while, but eventually LHS was the underdog in this matchup since Rutherford retaliated back too many times, and their record going into the game was 1-8, with we lost,” said Junior Olivia Cairns, who keeps their only victory being against Becton Regional statistics for the team. High School on Jan. 9. Meanwhile, Rutherford Cairns decided to take on the responsibility of was 6-4 at the time. tracking every point and foul because the winter LHS ended up losing its game against Ruther- is her offseason, and she said she was planning ford with a final score of 65-35, but the players to attend the games anyway. walked off the court proud that in the opening Junior Michael Carrino, who is a fan of LHS minutes, they proved to be worthy challengers. basketball, goes to games regularly and was The first quarter remained almost scoreless, there when LHS played Rutherford. Carrino and LHS set the pace by owning time of pos- said he likes to support his school and friends. session. When the second quarter came along, Additionally, he said he finds the basketball however, Rutherford began pulling away with games interesting. the lead and never looked back. By the end of “[LHS] has not [given] up on their season, the second quarter, LHS’s opponent had a 20 and they keep on competing no matter what the point lead. competition is, even though their record is not “We could have handled their defensive pres- where they want to be,” Carrino said. sure better, had less turnovers, stayed out of foul The basketball team has been struggling this trouble and did a better job with rebounds,” Se- season, but they have had five close calls thus nior Captain and Point Guard Vin Dorio said. far. One of these competitive games took place He said LHS could have managed to get a win on Jan. 14 away against Dwight-Englewood if the players had remained calm. High School, which is the second seeded team Courtesy of Stephen Giordano Especially in the second quarter, Rutherford in its division. Despite Dwight-Englewood’s Senior Peter Guerriero dribbles down the court at a home game against Leonia High School on Jan. 26. Girls basketball Hockey team is determined to stays positive in tough times make an appearance at states

By Kristina DeRobertis pression that working hard is how we approach our game. That is what we want all our players to The girls basketball team held a record of 5-10 believe,” Jelcic said. as of Feb. 1, but they are not discouraged. De- Freshman Sean Leonard said he has personally spite a few hard loses, the team also encountered felt the impact that experienced teammates have several close games. had on underclassmen. In an away game against Kearny High School “My teammates have helped me in the field- on Jan. 16, the girls lost by only four points, fin- house with workouts, and they have made me ishing with a score of 34-38. They also suffered a feel like a part of the team at practices,” Leonard close loss on Jan. 5 in an away game against Har- said. rison High School, falling short by three points Newcomer to the team but not to hockey, to end 28-31. Sophomore Tim Meglio, who is a member of the Boys basketball player Sophomore Andrew El- junior varsity team, said both junior varsity and lis, who attends the girls’ games when possible, varsity have been successful. said he sees visible improvement in the team. “Everyone has been contributing,” Meglio said. “The team gets better every game even if they “The JV guys and I have been doing pretty well, cannot see it, I think that their communication winning some pretty important games but los- and team skills improve without them even ing some winnable ones.” knowing it,” Ellis said. Meglio said going forward, the players must Sophomores Grace Cappiello and Makenzie work to improve their ice awareness and team- McMillan, both second year varsity players, said work. the team has potential to progress, not only this “If we all do what we practice in practice, we season but in the years to come. Courtesy of Sean Leonard can win most, if not the rest, of our games this “[We] have definitely improved since the be- Freshman Sean Leonard skates along the ice at the Hackensack Ice House in a game against Tenafly High School season,” Meglio said. ginning,” Cappiello said midseason. “We still on Dec. 12. Jelcic said he is not nervous about the loss of have opportunities to win more games, and we senior players at the end of this season. can still beat the teams that are coming up.” By Alexis Gerbasio Head Coach Jelcic said he wants his team to “Every year we add more players and lose se- Cappiello said having a losing record does not compete day in and day out. niors. We hate to see them go, but we know this make the girls a losing team. Rather, she said she With a record of 10-6-1 as of Feb. 1, the mem- “Our goals are to be in every game. If we are in happens. They’re only in high school for four focuses on the positive, which is that there is a bers of the co-op hockey team are in the midst every game and compete every night, we will be years,” Jelcic said. “We are losing some great se- lot of room for improvement. of their best season to date. in a great spot at season’s end,” Jelcic said. niors and those will be hard shoes to fill. How- “Because we are not losing that many senior Having secured a spot in the county tourna- Jelcic said the team’s upperclassmen have had a ever, we hope that our juniors step in their shoes players this year, we can only become better,” ment, in which they took a 1-5 loss to Ridge- positive influence on the underclassmen. immediately to help our underclassmen along McMillan said, “and that is what I expect to hap- wood High School on Jan. 13, the players are “Our seniors have led by example, and I am the way.” pen the next two years I am on the team.” focusing their attention on the state playoffs. very proud of them. I want them to leave the im- Bowling strikes the lanes yet again with a winning streak

By Nick Pacheco Daijon Smith and Emily Young, who were all spares and just win,” Podolski said. “Good Donohue said Balkin has helped make the critical bowlers last year, the team looked to its coaches and good bowlers keep coming up team successful, but teamwork is number one. After dominating the bowling lanes last sea- youth to step up to fill the vacant bowling shoes. through the years.” “Definitely the coach helped a lot, but mostly son at state sectionals and the Tournament of Junior Naomi Ramos is one such member Appointed by Coach Balkin, Donohue leads the team has helped each other. We keep each Champions, the bowling team has stepped up who has risen to the challenge, competing along this group as the captain. Donohue, who has other up when one of us is doing bad, and we tell once again to continue its legacy of success. As with Junior Tyla D’Andrea in the Bergen County been a top varsity player since his freshman each other what to do in order to improve one of Jan. 29, last year’s state champions were un- Girls Individual Title on Jan. 17. year, started bowling when he was three years another,” Donohue said. defeated at 13-0 in the league. This brings their Ramos said she has worked her way up to the old. With a title to defend and the Tournament of winning streak up to 83 games. varsity squad. He was exposed to the sport at a young age be- Champions right around the corner, the team The bowlers opened their season with a win “I have stayed focused and just had fun. The cause his father owns Bowl-Rite Lanes in Union must work especially hard in the days to come. against Becton Regional High School on Dec. 9. team does the same, and we just have to keep City. Donohue said his main responsibility is to Girls will be squaring off for their biggest event After going down by 95 pins in the first game, practicing to keep on winning,” Ramos said. keep the team motivated. of the season on Feb. 15 and boys will be closing the team went on to win the next two games, “Hopefully, the program can reach 100 games.” “I must also lead by example, given that I am the competitive season on Feb. 19. with Junior Captain Ryan Donohue bowling a Junior Bowler James Podolski said the team much more familiar with the sport, and my ex- “Is it going to be tough? Yes. Is it possible? 268 in the second game. has been fortunate to have continued talent. perience has made me much better,” Donohue Anything can happen at the Tournament of With the loss of LHS graduates Jordan Lopez, “All we need to do is capitalize on our easy said. Champions,” said Donohue. THE LIGHTHOUSE 12 SPORTS February 2016

Courtesy of Adrian Baranowski Junior Amanda Marek dives into her 100 meter breaststroke. Marek finished with a time of 1:31.13 against Immaculate Conception High School on Jan. 14 at LHS. With a winning record, swim team reaches the end

By Brian Arroyave with the lovely and talented Mrs. Hoyt,” Falcicchio said. However, there is still room for improvement. He said he has enjoyed watching the swimmers on the team “A lot of kids try to go in, and they try to just go fast, but you The competitive swimming season came to a close on Jan. 26, improve throughout the season. have to remember the technique, and that’s what’s gonna make with the boys closing with a 5-1-1 record and the girls finishing “The only way you are gonna get better is if you are dedicat- you faster,” Dembowski said. “It’s usually the freshmen who make 6-2. Co-oping with North Arlington High School, the team’s re- ed…. People evolve and learn,” Falcicchio said. “You see people that mistake.” cord last year was 6-3 for the boys and 7-3 for the girls. who started swimming [who] weren’t that great, and then all of Dembowski said one newcomer who is excelling is Freshman The team is led by Head Coach Frew, who receives help from a sudden by the end of the season, they’re swimming three times Matt Sales, who is one of the best breaststrokers and freestylers on Assistant Coaches Mr. Falcicchio and Mrs. Hoyt. as good as they started. So, a lot of improvement, and it’s nice the team. He has been swimming since the age of ten and plans This is Falcicchio’s first year mentoring the team, and he is seeing change.” on returning to the team next season. planning to continue coaching next year. Even though Falcic- Junior Zach Dembowski is among the students who has re- Sales said swimming requires a diverse set of skills including chio knows how to swim, he did not pursue this interest in high mained dedicated to the sport through the years. He joined as a technique, speed and pacing. school, which he said is a regret of his. freshman and said he enjoys being on the team because it is fun, “You gotta have a balance of everything because if you have re- Falcicchio said he agreed to be assistant coach this year because competitive and athletic. ally good technique and you get tired in a lap, you won’t get very one of last year’s assistant coaches, Mr. Carucci stepped down. “It is a great workout. It works every part of your body. It works far. If you have a lot of speed, and if you just punch the water until “It was a big challenge to try to fill his shoes. Plus I knew it every muscle,” Dembowski said. you can’t do anything or until you get tired, it won’t do anything,” would be a challenge working with Mr. Frew, and I got to work Dembowski said this season has gone better than expected. Sales said. “You gotta have everything.” Wrestlers push for pins

By Jennifer Wartel fect the team’s chemistry. “It didn’t phase us one bit. It made us closer As World Wrestling Entertainment star and stronger,” DeAbreu said. “No matter what Stone Cold Steve Austin’s theme song “I Won’t gets thrown at us, we can overcome it.” Do What You Tell Me” echoes throughout the Senior Captain Corey Leclerc said that after gym, Senior Captain Matt DeMarco runs onto the mat, pumped to take on Becton Regional High School’s Jordan Colon. Three-and-a-half “Every single wrestler minutes later, DeMarco pins his opponent and points to the Bear Cave in triumph. is determined to make the state Even with such victorious matches as DeMar- championship and make some noise. co’s, the team still fell one point short against We all want that ring and work hard BHS on Jan. 20. Despite having a 1-4 record in the first five matches of the season, the team every day towards that.” went on to switch gears. As of Feb. 1, they were 10-5. The momentum changed for the wrestlers on the quad match on Jan. 16, he has more confi- Jan. 15 when they claimed their largest victory dence in the team. of the season, defeating Waldwick High School “We went 3-0 against three tough teams, but 63-7. This victory carried into the following day we made it look easy,” Leclerc said. at a home quad match against Kearny, Living- Leclerc said the team needs to improve on dig- ston and Orange High Schools. ging deep into matches and not giving up. Sophomore Jordan DeAbreu said in order to Although Leclerc sees room for improvement, get more wins, the team needs to work on wres- he said the wrestlers are focused and know what Courtesy of Monica Baranowski tling for pins and getting bonus points. they are working for every time they step into Senior Captain Devin Yunis wrestles an opponent from Kearny High School at a home quad match on Jan. 16. “In the beginning of the season, the team was the wrestling room. flat, but now something clicked, and all we want DeMarco echoed Leclerc’s view about the quad DeMarco said the team is set on improving Like DeMarco, Junior Conor Yunis said he sees to do is be on top,” DeAbreu said. match giving the team more faith in their ability. consistency and wrestling their best each day. a state championship in the future for the team. He said the greatest challenge the wrestlers “Every wrestler from 106 to 285 looked confi- “Every single wrestler is determined to make “From the looks of the way we’ve been wres- faced going into the season was the uncertainty dent and wrestled the way they should. But we the state championship and make some noise. tling, with hard work and keeping our minds about how the new coaches, Head Coach Col- need to be able to keep it like that,” DeMarco We all want that ring and work hard every day right, I have no doubt we can get that ring,” said lins and Assistant Coach Blumenfeld, would af- said. towards that,” DeMarco said. Yunis.