FLIPPING THROUGH THE PAST JOHN P. STEVENS: PAST, PRESENT, AND FUTURE THE JOHN P. STEVENS HAWKEYE VOL. L—ISSUE 3 APRIL 29, 2014 JPSHAWKEYE.WORDPRESS.COM The Reaping Theatre Journeys Into the Woods All That of Mr. JPS Jazz By COURTNEY ZENG, freshman By ANUSHREE SREEDHAR, senior THE BOOMING applause. “DO YOU EVEN know what The fluorescent stage lights. jazz is?” I was ready to jump and The colorful Hunger Games protest at the tone of my father’s symbols. The crowd grew silent question when I realized that as seniors Amber Zafar and I had never been exposed to Harini Mekala, hosting as Effie live jazz; I had only known it as Trinket and Caesar Flickerman, “improvisational scat rhythms.” respectively, announced, “Ladies I retaliated, “Well, I will know and gentlemen, let Mr. JPS begin!” by the end of the night.” Later on in On February 28, students and the day, I attended the JP Stevens parents turned their attention to Band’s Jazz Festival, where many the brightly lit stage and watched high school jazz bands performed in anticipation of the crazy yet and showcased their talents. amusing antics expected of the The JP Top Jazz Band opened 22nd annual Mr. JPS. After senior the program for the night with Sruthi Nanduri sang the national Maynard Ferguson’s version of anthem, the show opened with the bebop standard “Four.” The a Hunger Games-themed video JESSICA LIU band then created a more mellow introducing the twelve “tributes” The Big Bad Wolf, portrayed by senior Daniel Decker, and Little Red Riding Hood, atmosphere by performing a ballad and their many talents, from portrayed by senior Jaesa Rogers, sing of the fear and wonder hidden in the woods. called “Now Playing” by Bob performing martial arts to eating well-known tales of Cinderella, rigorous rehearsals and spent Florence, serenading the audience By AKASH ADANI, sophomore fast food. Although all the tributes Little Red Riding Hood, Jack and hours memorizing lines and lyrics. with the melodious sounds of the managed to make the audience THE AUDIENCE watched intently the Beanstalk, and Rapunzel with During the week prior to the first flugelhorn played by senior Bryan laugh in their introductory chants, as it was mesmerized by the a story of a baker and his wife performance, actors and crew Lin. The third piece the band only one of them could be crowned actors, entranced by the singing, who want to break the curse of members held daily rehearsals performed, appropriately named district hero, champion of Panem, and captivated by the unfolding infertility on their family. In order that often went late into the night. “Groovin’ High,” enraptured the and the true Mr. JPS. The tributes tale. Changing moods in the play to break the spell cast by their Sophomore Priya Mukherjee audience with its unique rhythms. performed their traditional group enlivened the story and provided neighboring witch, the baker and remarked, “Tech week keeps us in Solos colored each one of the dance as they spun in circles great entertainment. The JP his wife need to obtain a cow as school until 10 p.m. or 11 p.m. On pieces, adding character to the and knocked each other down Stevens Theatre production, Into white as milk from Jack, a cape Saturdays, during construction, works and exemplifying the jazz to tunes such as “Roar” by Katy The Woods, drew in hundreds as red as blood from Little Red the crew is busy working on the tradition. The music was especially Perry and “Can’t Hold Us” by of spectators with its intricate Riding Hood, hair as yellow as set from sunrise to sunset.” Over significant to Bryan, a member of Macklemore and Ryan Lewis. plot line executed expertly corn from Rapunzel, and a slipper many weeks, the art crew designed Top Jazz. He said, “Jazz is the fuel The audience’s laughter through the combined efforts as pure as gold from Cinderella. the forest scene on the back wall, that gets me through the stress continued as each contestant of the cast, crew, and pit band. To put on a show of such of high school. When I play jazz strutted onstage wearing a Into The Woods combines the caliber, actors took part in See THEATRE, page 8 music, I relax, forget all my worries, costume related to the month he and just have fun.” These talented represented. Jong Lee, Mr. January, students weren’t just robotically did push-ups to represent a New playing their sheet music. Rather, Year’s resolution, and Kevin Zheng, The WarHawks Aim for FIRST the music was within them; the Mr. June, wore a green graduation challenges high school students carry balls, approximately two music they played, pure and By NIKHIL GRANDHI, senior gown to show his love for JP. by posing a problem that often feet in diameter, across the length unadulterated, was in their hearts. The show progressed into the AT THE MENTION OF the requires knowledge of science and of a field and shoot them into The excitement of the audience swimwear round as Stephen word “robotics,” images of technology and problem-solving goals that are about seven feet escalated with the performance Susan posed in neon shorts with metallic, cantankerous bodies of skills to formulate a solution high; robots can also pass the of Al Chez and the Brothers of his GoPro camera, while Abishek steel clashing with each other that is practical and effective. balls or shoot them over a truss Funk, who played with a great Sheshasayee flaunted his grass often occupy our imaginations. The WarHawks began their for additional bonus points. In six deal of energy and musicality. skirt and ukulele. Afterward, to the However, JP’s Robotics team, the building season in January when intense weeks, the WarHawks’ Years ago, Al Cheznovitz walked audience’s amusement, the twelve WarHawks, engages in a much FIRST Robotics officially released electrical, mechanical, design, the halls of JP and studied under manly tributes appeared with more practical application of the problem and rules of the new and programming sub-teams Mr. DeNicola. After high school, stuffed teddy bears, fuzzy slippers, robotics in the international For game. This year’s game, titled drafted and constructed a robot he continued his studies in music, and pajamas for the sleepwear the Inspiration and Recognition Aerial Assist, can be interpreted that managed to shoot the ball primarily focusing on the trumpet of Science and Technology as a robotic variation of handball. and flugelhorn, and toured with See MR. JPS, page 8 (FIRST) program. This program Team-built robots pick up and See ROBOTICS, page 8 Jon Bon Jovi, the Rolling Stones, Maynard Ferguson, and other greats. He was also part of the CBS Neon Night: Get your Neon on for Charity Orchestra on the Late Show with balloons floated in the center David Letterman. In 2008, Al Chez By KELLY YU, freshman of the cafeteria. It was an event formed his own band, the Brothers GREETED WITH splashes of neon where students could “glow their of Funk, that fuses rock, funk, and colors in every corner of the room, night away” with colorful neon jazz in its music. A member of students entered the cafeteria to glow sticks and energetic spirits. Top Jazz, senior Poonam Gupta, attend National Honor Society This year, the National Honor recounted, “The JP Jazz festivals and Key Club’s Neon Night dance Society organized Neon Night have always been the experience held on March 14. Beams of light to raise money for a non-profit of a lifetime, and this year was produced by the disco ball poked organization called Buddy Ball of no different. Though my ears their way through the white fog Edison. This organization helps are still ringing, Al Chez was that filled the air. Blaring music kids with special needs participate truly an inspiration to listen to.” reverberated throughout the room in sports programs generally Al Chez seemed almost divine CARIN YAO and lured students to the dance Neon-clad seniors pose with the “Neon Nights” backdrop. floor. Four bouquets of green See NEON, page 8 See JAZZ, page 8

OPINION, PAGE 2 NEWS, PAGE 8 FEATURES, PAGE 5 SPORTS, PAGE 10 On following your dreams And the winner is... Following the pillars Football outside the U.S. PAGE 2 OPINION APRIL 2014

Hawkeye Parks and Reforestation service, we need recognition. We rely upon planet. However, a larger effort to reduce

Editorial Staff By LEELA HEGDE, junior personal gratification; we need to know that pollution would have cost both money and

2013–2014 EVEN NATURE has a tipping point. we will quantifiably gain from what we give. jobs, and many weren’t willing to sacrifice Although it has persevered through Unfortunately, we are not likely to dispense either. Many people had the right attitude, humanity’s mistreatment for generations, unconditional generosity. Therefore, it is but efforts to make a permanent impact it will eventually take no more abuse. We understandable that political support for slowly dwindled. Years later, America faced Editors-in-Chief will not be around to personally witness this movement has all but disappeared as it economic downturn and attitudes began Azeem Malik & Ziqin Yuan nature’s demise, but future generations of became less lucrstive to the general public. to shift. The government began to scorn the human race will have to face the terrible Environmentalism’s popularity declined environmental regulation as an unnecessary consequences of a deteriorating natural rapidly when people realized that both effort solution to a trendy problem, and the public News Editors world. Our actions do have consequences, and money were required to restore the readily agreed. Despite this change in Konya Badsa but few are still concerned with the decline environment and public opinion, the dangers of pollution are Tiffany Lin of the environment. reduce harm still very real, and this dismissive attitude Assistant News Editors It seems like an exaggeration to say to the is harmful and destructive. Few remain Tanaya Badsa that we have ravaged nature. These staunch supporters of the environmentalist Paulina Lee days, nobody really believes that movement, but the spattering of activists Kavya Udupa our ecosystems, or the Earth that linger can help reinvigorate this itself, are in danger. There was cause. A mere eight years ago, former vice Opinion Editors a time not so long ago when president Al Gore produced a monumental Divya Korada countless demonstrations documentary called An Inconvenient Truth, Zahra Malik and awareness campaigns which discussed the looming dilemma Alice Wang took place to protect the of global warming. The documentary environment and stop the was greeted by a short burst of renewed Assistant Opinion Editors destruction of our planet’s public concern for the state of the planet. Jessica Francis ecosystems. From the Golden Unfortunately, this reaction did not Vayne Ong and Bald Eagle Protection last for long, as indifference toward Act in 1940, to the global ban environmentalism has returned. Features Editors on whaling in 1986 and the Environmentalism is just as Preeyal Patel Kyoto Protocol in 1997 (which important now as it was in David Zhao worked to reduce greenhouse the twentieth century. Assistant Features Editors gas emissions), we have Perhaps the benefits of Brillian Bao embraced environmentalism the environmentalist Simmi Sharma and instituted changes in our movement will lifestyles to protect the balance not seem to affect Sports Editors of life on Earth. At the turn of the or benefit us twenty-first century, however, immediately. Sana Ajani environmentalism faded out of the However, if we Gurnoor Tucker public eye. In fact, the number of people planet. A safe remain shortsighted and only pay attention Assistant Sports Editors who worry over a legitimate environmental and happy to matters that affect the near future, then we Jessica Ho issue such as water pollution has dropped future for their distant kin was just not will lose sight of our planet’s deteriorating Nancy Woo from 72% of Americans in 1989 to 46% in enough of an incentive for practicing green condition and the repercussions of 2011. So what changed? habits. mistreating the environment. Business Manager Nothing—except perhaps our attitude. In the latter part of the twentieth As involved and concerned citizens of Deepan Modi The greatest cause of the decline of the century, environmentalism was all the the Earth, we should focus on long-term Assistant Manager environmentalist movement is the notion rage as Americans became concerned issues rather than short-term concerns, Julia Zou that the campaign has no direct and tangible about industrial pollution. Environmental consider what we can give rather than what benefit for the American people. In order regulations required changes in factories to we can receive, and finally make an effort to Art Editors for us to take action, we need rewards. For reduce air pollution; such measures were a rejuvenate a movement that is critical to our Marissa Fu dedication, we need promotion. For public prudent investment for the welfare of the lives and the lives of all future generations. Dennis Zhang Photography Editor In Defense of Dreamers Narayan Kovil that naturally come to a person who enjoys organizer before becoming a lawyer. He By KRISHNAVENI TADI, guest writer his or her work. Although pursuing one’s worked hard and attained success and Online Production Team A MATH TEST, some homework, gym own dream may be a bumpy path, it is what recognition for his work as an attorney and a Radheshwar Arora class, lunch break, a quick chat, English ultimately makes the difference between law professor. He then became a senator, and Amber Lin class, and a long stare out the window. As a job and a career: while one fills your served our country for a few years before Vaishali Ravikumar the bell signals the end of yet another school wallet, the other fills your heart. People deciding to campaign for the presidency. day, a young boy rushes out into the sea of with talents in any activity—whether it be The same “starter jobs” can be found in any Advisor students congesting the hallways of a high singing, dancing, sports, entrepreneurship, and every other career field conceivable, and school. A quiet, socially awkward individual or something else—should not be confined to can serve as stepping stones to a dream job. Mr. Louis Andreuzzi and a mediocre student, he does not seem society’s definition of success. People do not The most dangerous gamble of all is Hawkeye is a forum for to have any remarkable qualities—but that need to abandon a talent to pursue practical spending your life doing something you don’t student expression. Published is only what is seen at school. Miles away, or viable career choices when they can find want to do and relying on the chance that articles express the views he steps onto center stage and slips into the one in their own areas of expertise. you’ll be able to buy yourself the freedom to of their authors, not of the role of a character, reenacting scenes from But no talented actor can just suddenly do what you enjoy later. Instead, you should newspaper. Hawkeye reserves a Shakespearean tragedy. This young boy, start performing on Broadway. Like all start by working logically toward your own the right to edit all material. typically known by his academic reputation, other dreams, it takes years of patience definition of success. The road will not be Please visit our website at would have easily been dismissed as and endurance to reach one’s goal. Take easy, but you will look back at the ride as a www.jpshawkeye.wordpress. someone of little importance had it not been George Lucas, for example. Now the multi- valuable life experience. com for more content. for his theatrical talent. At some point in billionaire who created the Star Wars trilogy, It is bittersweet to see how some their lives, most children and teenagers are Lucas was first employed as a teaching “successful” people who have practical and Interested in writing, asked what they wish to do when they grow assistant for Navy students who were viable careers do nothing but pay the bills. drawing, or selling for up. When they name an occupation that studying documentary film production. He These people don’t get satisfaction from Hawkeye? Email us at is not easily attainable, adults deem their gradually gained valuable lessons about the their work—just money in exchange for a day [email protected]. dreams unreasonable and idealistic, and craft and began directing his own films. By of working at a job they do not care for. They claim that they would fare better if they set starting with a reasonable and attainable will tell you not to let go of your passion, but the bar lower. But young people with dreams career option, Lucas was able to work his to chase your dreams and without worrying and aspirations of their own should not be way up to the job of his dreams. Ironically, about where they will take you. Success is Published by the students of forced to pursue “something sensible.” a similar situation arose in the career of not directly proportional to the amount of John P. Stevens High School While they are still developing, many the same man who often gives advice about money you have in your pocket. In the words 855 Grove Avenue children possess one talent in a specific “practical and viable” careers: the President of William Zinsser, “we need mavericks and Edison, NJ 08820 area. In this case, it is much easier for them of the United States. Barack Obama was dissenters and dreamers far more than we to find success if they pursue their dreams probably one of the millions of children need junior vice presidents, but we paralyze rather than look for secure yet unattainable who wanted to become president when them by insisting that every step be a step jobs. In this highly competitive world, it they grew up. Isn’t that one of the loftiest up the next rung of the ladder.” The greatest is vital to play to one’s strengths when dreams of them all? Of course, he did not names in history, the names that sound the looking for a career. Success in any endeavor simply graduate law school and decide to sweet bells of success—those­ names belong requires passion and dedication, qualities run for President; he began as a community to the people who dared to dream. APRIL 2014 OPINION PAGE 3 Attitude of Ingratitude that she stop seeing a boy whom they clubs, sports, and extracurricular classes in relationships, sets us up for pain and loss, By HELENA WU, columnist believed to be a bad influence. But despite which we want to participate in contributes and restricts our potential to grow and HIGH SCHOOL is a part of life, a crucible her disobedience, she felt that she deserved to the outlandishly high expectations for learn. While Rachel Canning’s case is rather that prepares young adults for professional to be financially supported by her parents. achievement some of us have for ourselves. extreme, the same consequences could work and future success. Many of us students To extort college payments from her parents, Social perceptions and our own observations apply to the rest of us if we, too, fall prey to are very fortunate to live in homes with she claimed that her parents physically and o f successful students sometimes add this entitled mindset. Our perception may loving parents who are willing to climb over emotionally abused her, going as far as saying to this already terrible begin to distort the gravity of a situation, as mountains and cut down forests to afford that her mother’s shaming comments recipe for self- a sense of entitlement can cause us to grow every opportunity to brighten their children’s about her weight led to an eating entitlement. impatient, demanding, and narrow-minded. paths to college and beyond. But it is not right disorder. On a superficial level, All of these It is a vicious black hole that vanquishes to repudiate personal responsibility for our her claims seemed legitimate, influences values, leaving behind just a shadow of what conduct and life choices, as we so often do. but court documents and media can help we could accomplish. These may not seem Every extracurricular activity, every tutoring probing revealed an alternative account for like direct, tangible repercussions, and they session, every plane ticket for a band field story—that of a spoiled young what goes are not. Entitlement takes the more insidious trip paid out-of-pocket, reflects a gift from adult unwilling to on inside our route of decay, and eventual devastation those in our lives who love us most. These are heed basic heads, but, at occurs from the inside out. If anything, it is privileges, nothing more—and it is time for us principles its most basic, like a disease, just as deadly as battlefield to reassess and reconstruct our lackadaisical of an imperious or wounds but considerably more painful, attitude toward them. To a certain extent, the propriety outsized feeling prolonged, and complicated. Having a sense phenomenon of self-entitlement happens in and decency. of privilege is of entitlement fosters unhealthy beliefs and high schools everywhere, but the academic Rather than the result of behaviors that are undesirable to everyone. and competitive environment of JP Stevens exhibit what we make It is not only a disagreeable personality trait, makes it especially prominent here. We gratitude, of the world but also diminishes an individual’s ability to “need” to snag that coveted internship in a Canning allowed around achieve success. prestigious workplace so that we can boost her sense of us. Some From time to time, feverish concern for our resumés, and we need to have that entitlement students our own circumstances takes the form of leadership position in a club to flaunt on to bring embrace this self-entitlement (read: selfishness). Our our applications—all because we believe out her the ambitions may appear reasonable at first, we deserve them. But while it is important worst and decision but can ultimately lead to a tendency to to pursue one’s interests in an academic distress everyone to reach ruthlessly pursue them at the expense of our environment, this attitude could potentially in her family. for all the personal relationships. lead to a troubling sense of entitlement with But how did distinctions and Fortunately, the best antidote to this dire consequences. Canning gain such an opportunities in problem, an attitude of gratitude, is not Consider the current example of 18-year- ungrateful attitude? The answer sight, in a way that will cause others to see difficult to practice. We should always put old Rachel Canning, an athlete and honor is crucial to the development them as either gracious or, more often than forth our best efforts in every endeavor, and student from New Jersey who was recently of young students everywhere, because not, callous and out-of-touch. then move on. Many of us are lucky to have a embroiled in a lawsuit against her parents. although it may seem clichéd, one’s character We are privileged to be able to strive comfortable home, a high-quality education, In the fall of 2013, Canning ran away from and attitude strongly impact one’s actions. for as much as we do, but it is far from and a loving family. Thus, though we should her home, choosing to live at the house of a Admittedly, parental indulgence may play a an inalienable right to expect to receive try to succeed, our drive to be the best should friend rather than obey her parents’ simple, large part in the development of a privileged everything that we demand. Having high not take precedence over the awareness of understandable curfew and their request attitude. Unreserved support for all the expectations often brings tension into the many privileges we have. PAGE 4 OPINION APRIL 2014 Troubled Waters September 16, the Port Authority claimed responsibly, or as someone who encourages This occurrence may suggest that the fiasco By AMEER MALIK, political columnist that the lane closing occured due to a traffic this kind of behavior. Also, the fact that has still not been adequately addressed by ALTHOUGH THE FORT LEE lane closures study. Although Christie said that he was not Bridgegate was discussed over two months the governor. occurred late last year, many of us still involved in the incident at a news conference, after Kelly was dismissed means that the The most significant effect of Bridgegate remember the “Bridgegate” scandal. As four days later, Wildstein resigned from his people of New Jersey are still concerned is that Christie might be scrutinized more by recently as March 20, 2014, Governor position. In December, the with the issue. The gentleman at the town his opponents. During the brutal primaries Christie was asked about the issue at a town inspector hall meeting, for example, asked Christie if for a presidential election, politicians must hall event. This scandal is one skeleton in general Kelly was fired for lying or for blocking the not give fuel to mudslinging campaigns. Christie’s closet that may not be forgotten of the Port traffic. This was because We still recall how Romney’s comment anytime soon, boding ill for his chances in Authority at the press about “the 47 percent” followed him to the the 2016 presidential election. started an conference on end of his campaign. Unfortunately, the The details of the Fort Lee lane closure late investigation. January 9, Bridgegate scandal might affect Christie in a last year have been widely reported. Here is “Bridgegate” Christie similar manner. It is unlikely that Christie’s what happened, based on a timeline from turned into a said that Republican opponents will let this incident USA Today: on August 13, 2013, Governor national story he fired go. Additionally, they may call for further Chris Christie’s deputy chief of staff Bridget on January 8. Kelly because investigations into Christie’s governorship Kelly sent an email to the Director of The very next day, “she lied to to uncover more scandals. Interstate Capital Projects, David Wildstein, Governor Christie held [him].” Clearly, If more information about the lane that read, “Time for some traffic problems a press conference where he Christie’s closures surfaces, Christie’s situation may in Fort Lee.” Wildstein replied with “Got it.” apologized for the scandal and fired response to the change. But right now, what occurred under Later, on September 6, Wildstein told the Kelly. situation was not his leadership and his response to it already general manager of the George Washington Regardless of the governor’s ideal. spell trouble for his future in politics. If he Bridge, Robert Durando, to close two of involvement in the scandal, Bridgegate will His interrogation at wishes to pursue the presidency, Bridgegate the three lanes between the bridge and undoubtedly hurt Governor Christie’s future the town hall event may haunt him. Though Christie hired the Fort Lee, causing a huge traffic jam. Mayor in politics. The fact that people who worked was not the end of his problems. On March law firm Gibson Dunn to write an internal Mark Sokolich of Fort Lee reached out for closely with Christie caused a serious traffic 28, 2014, David Samson resigned from his review report on the lane closures on help, but the traffic issues only ended on problem and hurt innocent people is enough position at the Port Authority of New York the George Washington Bridge, further September 13, when the executive director to sully his image. He may be seen as either and New Jersey. Samson had been the investigations and inquiries into the scandal of the Port Authority, Patrick Foye, told someone who does not have the power governor’s top appointee, but resigned due to will continue. It would have been best for Durando to open the two closed lanes. On to ensure that his subordinates behave repercussions from the Bridgegate incident. Christie if he had kept his record clean. Water Under the Bridge

By RITA WANG, political columnist Kelly. Kelly tells him that Mayor Sokolich the publicity during a presidential election, His tough love, Sopranos-style attitude is his did not endorse him in the gubernatorial even the least worrisome Republicans won’t most endearing quality, and, whatever occurs “I’M STUNNED by the abject stupidity election. He tells her to “take care of it.” She be able to hide their skeletons in the closet. in the months leading up to November 2016, shown here,” Chris Christie announced emails Wildstein, and scandal erupts. Chris Christie’s tough and blunt attitude Bridgegate and Christie’s response to it will in January, at his first press conference While Sokolich was not willing to forgive gave him the popularity to win the certainly be on everyone’s mind. Should he addressing the Bridgegate scandal. and forget, Christie was willing to make up gubernatorial election in 2013, and it may decide to run then, how he handles himself Immediately, his mostly Democratic critics for what happened and move on. He offered prove successful again on the national stage. will be pivotal in the presidential election. rushed to the scene, insisting that Christie to meet with Sokolich to apologize in person, should be impeached for his deliberate but Sokolich refused, facing pressure from closing of the bridge. His defenders, the Democratic Party. Christie has also been mostly Republicans, claimed that he had honest with the people of New Jersey, and done nothing wrong and was still a strong apologized only four days after the private contender for the 2016 presidential election. emails were revealed. It’s commendable The media circus regarding Bridgegate that Christie apologized for Bridgegate so persists, and the question remains: how will quickly and that his apology was genuine. Bridgegate affect his career? He seemed disappointed in Kelly, whom The incident began on the first day he regarded “as family.” He has been very of school in 2013, before that year’s cooperative with the investigation, and, so gubernatorial election. Oddly enough, lanes far, he’s answered some tough questions were closed on the George Washington and fired those responsible. Additionally, Bridge, resulting in heavy traffic and the a law firm hired by Christie conducted an death of a 91-year-old woman, whose internal investigation that cleared him of ambulance could not reach her in time. any involvement in the decision to close Following public outrage, an investigation of the bridge. The bottom line is that he most David Wildstein, the Director of Interstate likely didn’t know about it, and mistakes do Capital Projects, was ordered, and emails happen. Chris Christie isn’t poorly handling from Christie’s top aide to Wildstein were the situation, and Bridgegate may set him found, with the message “Time for some up for a meteoric rise in popularity. traffic problems in Fort Lee.” Stating that the Again, the conversation cycles back to bridge closure was retaliation for Fort Lee 2016. Who will be the mighty Republican mayor Mark Sokolich’s refusal to endorse elephant to rise up to the challenge and him against candidate Barbara Buono, defeat Hillary Clinton, if she decides to run? people immediately began to point fingers at Senator John McCain (remember him?) Chris Christie. A few other mayors, notably thinks Chris Christie will be that elephant- Hoboken’s Dawn Zimmer, claimed that this in-shining-armor. As for Bridgegate’s was not the only time Christie had used his impact on the election, the scandal was power to get what he wanted. Zimmer stated recently brought up in a Flemington town that Lieutenant Governor Kim Guadagno hall meeting. He brushed off Bridgegate had encouraged her to back a commercial questions, stating “don’t worry...this has housing project, stating that “the governor nothing to do with anything other than the really wanted this project to happen,” fact that they don’t want me to be governor.” and threatened to cut Hoboken off from Bridgegate could potentially turn into a Hurricane Sandy recovery money if Zimmer hazardous topic come 2016. The Atlantic’s did not comply. David Graham predicts Bridgegate will I haven’t always been the most vocal of be “dangerous” to Christie’s career, as Chris Christie defenders, but most of the Christie’s popularity has rested on his two allegations of Christie’s political scandals characteristics: credibility and confidence. are, frankly, ridiculous, and this scandal is no His confidence wasn’t shaken by the exception. Governors often have to delegate scandal, but his credibility was. However, responsibilities to their aides and other some believe he retained his credibility, office hands. Thoughts might have become including Judy Smith, a crisis management lost or muddled in translation, and that is consultant who inspired the character how Bridgegate occurred. Let’s imagine Olivia Pope of Scandal. She suggested that the most plausible scenario for how the the best course of action at this time is to misunderstanding went down: Chris Christie push ahead and “keep doing what he’s walks into his office, followed by Bridget doing.” Yet it’s important to note that with all APRIL 2014 FEATURES PAGE 5 You Know You Go To JPS When...... teachers threaten to quit if there are any ...you’re excited about the fact that Gertrude ...the soap in the art wing bathroom smells ...students are willing to push themselves to more snow days. Hawk chocolate has a new box. like Kool-Aid. the limits of their physical abilities just to ...people refer to sacks of flour as their ...you’re willing to buy a ticket to what is ...your Algebra II teacher buys your class win free water bottles from the military. babies... essentially a male beauty pageant—Mr. JPS. Dunkin’ Donuts for Pi Day. ...the upperclassmen are jealous that the ...and then casually play catch with them in ...you have no idea what the deal is with the ...you were excited when you found out that freshmen get assemblies every three weeks. the halls after the child growth project is “lucky thirteenth,” but you’re happy about there was bacon on the sandwich line. ...seniors are taking AP exams on the day of over... not getting any homework...... chocolate bar sales are “death matches” prom. ...or lovingly bake them into batches of ...until you realize that some of your between members of every club in the ...students complain about the new SAT chocolate chip cookies. teachers have either assigned “optional” school... exam even though most of them have no ...teachers begin to schedule tests and homework or scheduled a test the next day. ...and anyone selling Twix bars is already idea what’s actually being changed. projects for “the next full day of school.” ...you hope it stops snowing just so people winning. ...you feel left out when your classmates ...for Eighties Day, your teachers can stop asking you if you want to build a ...seniors define the words HSPA and wear the one club T-shirt that you refused choreograph a routine complete with snowman. EXPLORE as alternate spellings of IHOP. to buy in an attempt to curb your school leather jackets, neon skirts, leg warmers, ...underclassmen stalk seniors’ Facebook ...Domino’s pizza is sold for $3.25 a slice. apparel addiction. and exorbitant amounts of hair spray... pages to keep track of every college ...Spring Break becomes two long weekends. ...and ride into the cafeteria on BMX bikes. acceptance. ...the heater in your classroom is finally By RACHEL DIAO, junior, and CLAIRE PAN, sophomore ...the second floor becomes an indoor track ...all the paper towels in the bathrooms have working... for the winter track team... been removed. ...but once you’re standing next to it with JPSHAWKEYE.WORDPRESS.COM ...and the boys’ tennis team has their first ...you submit your elective choices at 5:01 your hands cupped over the vent, it starts day of tryouts in the B-wing hallway. p.m. the day the portal opens. releasing cold air. CHECK IT OUT. The Six Pillars of Tardiness and I spent the next ten minutes trying to I volunteered to type up the lab myself. for concentrating on my work. As I was By KRUTI SITWALA, junior move forward without causing an accident. The next morning, my printer stopped driving to school, I was diligently reciting TO THE ATTENDANCE OFFICE: Careful to avoid a third tardy, I began responding just as I attempted to print a formulas for my math test. Caught up in I understand that some students are late waking up earlier. Upon walking particularly taxing set of analysis memorization, I barely noticed the stop to school for all the wrong reasons, but my into my bathroom one questions. Determined to sign and hit the brakes just a bit too late. tardiness is wholly justifiable. I have never morning, I was faced with print this lab, I checked Unfortunately, I couldn’t avoid the red and been late because I hit the snooze button, a dark, hairy monstrosity every computer setting blue lights flashing in my rearview mirror— crammed for a test, or spent too much time suspended from the ceiling and made sure each wire or the ensuing tardy. Perhaps I should have choosing between Cocoa Puffs and Lucky of my shower. After some was in place, only to been a more responsible driver. Charms one morning. No, each time I was deliberation, I decided finally discover that the After that my mother decided to intervene, late I was demonstrating my six pillars of that sleep is precious printer was not turned believing that I was no longer capable of character. But despite my noble efforts, I and that shaking on. Though I was getting myself to school without receiving was rewarded with one detention slip after someone else late, my lab was a ticket and a late slip. As a thoughtful another. awake at not, and my daughter, I understood my mother’s concern ​ I was being a good citizen when I received 5:30 a.m. promise to and agreed to let her drive me to school, thus my first tardy. While briskly walking to to deal my lab showing her the utmost respect. Steering her school, I saw a sweet old lady at the corner with an partner way through a maze of potholes, my mother of the block, trying to cross a busy street. arachnid w a s started chatting with me about her new Reminding myself to behave courteously, I would fulfilled. job. I relaxed, confident that my attendance assisted her. Unfortunately, I had severely be rude Thus, I struggles were over, until I heard the loud overestimated the walking speed of a senior and very accredit my pop of a flat tire... citizen. In addition to scolding me for inconsiderate. fourth tardy to my As a JP student, the six pillars of character walking “too quickly,” she insisted on telling So with the trustworthiness. have been ingrained into my conscience, me a twenty-minute long “abridged” version determination of Just as I am not and yet, rather than being congratulated of her life story. a gladiator, I donned one to fall back on for my moral efforts, I have been rewarded Having learned my lesson, I started driving my yellow rubber gloves, my promises, I with detention slips. Perhaps​ after better to school instead, but I was given my second wielding a thick flip flop in am not one to fall back understanding the reasons behind my tardy for exhibiting fairness on the road. one hand and a bottle of Raid in the other. on my studies. I was awarded another tardiness, you will see that my acts of While driving down Grove Avenue in the Although my trusty armor did help me slay tardy for being a responsible student and goodness do not merit a detention. infamous morning traffic, I saw a car trying the creature, it did not prevent yet another to merge into my lane. As hurrying drivers tardy. generally don’t make space for others trying By the time I reached school that day, I You Snooze, You Lose to merge, I allowed the car to enter. Suddenly had already missed a good portion of my you’re awfully needy. I really care about By TANYA BALARAJU, senior it was as if every single car behind that one lab period, leaving my confused lab partner you, Sleep, but I can’t overlook all the times decided that it too could cut in front of me, stranded. Vowing to make it up to her, WE NEED TO TALK. I always thought we you’ve tried to get me to pay attention to you were the lucky ones who would remain in the middle of class—and right in front of eternally inseparable. Remember how close the teacher, at that. You’ll never understand we were as kids in puppy love? We would how embarrassing that is, will you? And spend nine, ten, even eleven hours a day lost what about all those evenings I wanted to in the land of our pajama-clad dreams. spend with my best friends Netflix and Social Those dreams were from the good days, Life, only to be interrupted by you yelling at Sleep. But now it’s time to face reality: it me to come back? When I think about those hasn’t been working out lately. We barely times, I can’t believe how inconsiderate and see each other anymore; I have no time for childish you can be. But that’s just how it is you, and I’m always leaving you behind. To with you, isn’t it? When I decide not to spend be honest, I haven’t been very faithful to time with you and ignore your desperate you—I’ve been spending more time with calls, you leave bags under my eyes and don’t Homework. Just think about all the times let me focus on anything else. Can’t you see, I swore to take a nap after school but hung Sleep? You’re ruining my life. out for a few hours with her instead. Sure, it Unfortunately for you and me, I can’t was all professional in the beginning, but one carry that kind of burden, especially not in thing led to another and, well, now I don’t the future. College is only going to distance think I can go back to you without facing the us further, and the last thing I want is to feel consequences of leaving her. like I need to devote precious hours to you I know what you’ll say about this. You’ll when I could be spending quality time with tell me that Homework is not the one for me, something less clingy. I’m sorry it has to end that she’s ruining my happiness. You might this way, but you and I aren’t compatible even say that my parents think you’re right anymore. If it’s any consolation, just know for me and that you’re always wishing we that there will always be a part of me that could work things out instead of hanging on will want you back, and I’m sure that there the verge of a break-up. is someone else for you out there who will And maybe you’re right. Maybe one day prioritize you and make you feel important. I’ll look back and realize I should have But I have a life to live, Sleep, and with the chosen you. But let’s be realistic here—I way things are going, I can’t afford to have can’t afford to indulge the demands you’ve you in it. Best of luck for the future, and been making. You see, I hate to say this, but maybe one day we’ll meet again. 9 Time Capsule 13 By ARJUN GOURISHETTY, sophomore11 TANYA BALARAJU, senior KRUTI SITWALA, junior ANJALI MADGULA, freshman

15 12 10 The JP Time Capsule 16 STUDENTS RARELY COMPLETE their JP experience without encountering a few iconic items along the way. Some everyday items can come to represent memories and friendships, as well as the quirks, both good and bad, of daily life. What would the 50th graduating class want to be remembered by? If we looked back at our time in JP, what would we think about? And most importantly, what would we want future graduating classes to know about JP students in 2014?

CD OF FRIDAY MORNING MUSIC 8 A CD of all the songs played during the 50th graduating year of JP Stevens will 7 give future students a sense of connection to 2014 and help keep another great tradition alive.

GERTRUDE HAWK CHOCOLATE BAR WRAPPER Any time capsule would be incomplete without a sample of JP’s thriving black market, under- the-table merchandise. Gertrude Hawk is the emblem of impulse purchases (and buyer’s remorse) here at JP Stevens. But how can one truly determine whether the money was worth spending? The answer lies in the million-dollar (or rather, one-dollar) question: “What flavors do you have?”

6 YEARBOOK PROM PICTURES Future students would see the photos of current students and their dates and be left dumbfounded. Their only response would be that the movie Her was way ahead of its time.

TI-84 CALCULATOR Students five decades from now would take one look at your prized TI-84 and be puzzled by its ancient technology. After all, given the current rate of technological advancement, one could safely say that scientists would have the quirks of the Singularity figured out in 50 years.

By TANYA BALARAJU, senior, KRUTI SITWALA, junior, 5 ARJUN GOURISHETTY, sophomore, and ANJALI MADGULA, freshman

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1 2 Celebrating JP’s 50th Graduating Class Teacher Anecdotes MANY STUDENTS THINK that when they graduate, they will leave JP forever. However, as history proves, this is not always the case; many former students have returned to teach at JP, the place where they once went to school. Whether they graduated five, ten, or twenty years ago, many still remember how JP was during their time as students. A few teachers have agreed to share their memories, as well as reflect upon how JP has changed over the years.

MS. BONK MS. NARTOWICZ Since 2005, JP Stevens has changed with the new smart JP has a long history in my family. My great uncle was a member of the first boards, whiteboards, B-wing, projector in the wrestling graduating class, and my father and his six brothers and sisters are JP graduates. room, and awesome turf. However, quite a few similarities Some of my earliest memories are of attending JP events with my family, my still exist. The gyms are still referred to as “old” and “new.” favorite being the Thanksgiving Day Football Game, which I have attended for the Although there are many new faculty members, teachers past 33 years. My favorite memories include playing varsity soccer for 4 years and that I had as a student are still here, including Mr. Marzano, being captain my senior year; playing in the Junior vs. Senior Powderpuff football 15 Mr. Romano, Mr. Amodio, Mrs. Pisano, Mrs. Savulich, Mrs. game, participating in the Battle of the Classes; attending “pudding wrestling” in Nixon, Mrs. Liotti, Mr. and Mrs. Petrucelli, and Mr. White, the Old Gym; and going to Friday night home football games with friends, then 14 just to name a few. getting dinner at the Parsonage Diner on the corner of Route 27 and James Street.

MS. PUGLIESE MRS. PAOLELLO JP is still very similar to how I remember it as a JP has grown in square footage since I attended the school as a student. I have student, especially the crowded hallways. The seen every principal the school has had. When I arrived at JP it was Mr. Alley most notable changes are the loosened dress and when I left it was Mr. Richardson. When I started teaching here it was Mr. code and the building itself. They built the A-wing my senior year, so Riccio and now Ms. Pawlikowski. The only constant left through all these years is the school’s size has increased a lot since I was a freshman. Mr. DeNicola and me in the Arts wing. When I went to school here, I was in the marching band with him, and now I have been teaching across the hall from him MS. PITTENGER for many years. A few former teachers are still here, but not many that I remember. I am teaching in a wing that didn’t exist when I was a student here. Back then, Mrs. Alfonso was a long-term substitute for my math teacher, and Mrs. When I walked the hallways 20 years ago, there was definitely more Stein was doing her student teaching with my English teacher, Mrs. Gundry. room to maneuver (we were even allowed to carry backpacks). Today, if I need to cross a hallway during passing, I have to play Frogger (at least I am good at that game). Responses kindly provided by JP Teachers

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18 1. 1964- Construction of the school building nears completion. 2. 1966- The archery team strikes a pose with their bow and arrows. 3. 1969- The library once sported an elegant balcony. 4. 1972- Students sit on a 70s Fiat. 5. 1975- Before they had iPhones, students used payphones. 6. 1975- Members of the color guard display their rifles. 7. 1976- The beloved Chemis-Tree is adorned for Christmas. 8. 1977- Boys play donkey basketball. 9. 1977- Cupids distribute Luv-o-grams on Valentine’s Day. 10. 1982- Students perform leg lifts in gym class. 11. 1983- Fire drill procedures once advised students to “run like hell.” 12. 1985- The marching band wishes the U.S. a “Happy New Year.” 13. 1988- Students have fun at a bonfire. 14. 1990- Teachers host a luau. 15. 1990- Students cheer on classmates at the Powderpuff football game. 16. 1993- Hall Dec is taken to a new level. 17. 1994- The candidates of Mr. JPS perform a dance. 18. 1996- Seniors show their spirit in the Battle of the Classes. 19. 2000- A girl paints the mural in the curved hallway. Photo Captions 20. 2004- Odyssey of the Mind students crush a structure.

You know you go to JPS when the 50th graduating class graduates 19 in the 49th year.

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Centerfold design by PHOEBE CHANG PAGE 8 NEWS APRIL 2014 Theatre, contd. Jazz, contd. Robotics, contd. painted the tree, and created Cinderella’s voice. as he passionately played a lick of high notes using a pneumatic system. house, Jack’s house, the bakers’ house, and As with all successful musicals, the music and simultaneously conducted the Brothers At the end of the build season, the Rapunzel’s tower. ties everything together. Students from of Funk. WarHawks traveled to Mount Olive High Similar to a magician’s trick, the orchestra and band volunteered to play music It was one thing to hear the band, but School in Flanders, New Jersey to compete magic in this musical occured where the during the show to accompany the actors’ another to see it perfom. Everyone felt the in the regional tournament. Thirty eight audience wasn’t looking. Backstage, the singing. The nature of live performances music; listeners tapped their feet, bobbed teams from various districts in New Jersey crew worked frantically to keep the show again demanded much more from these their heads, and smiled from under their participated. Unlike most competitive events, running smoothly. Whether a microphone musicians than regular concerts. “Pit music mouthpieces. Every song contained a new FIRST competitions challenge the teams malfunctioned or a set piece needed to be is actually some of the hardest music out emotion, a new story. The audience was to construct robots that can compete and changed, someone was always prepared there as it is always written in uncommon enraptured; some students even used their cooperate simultaneously. The competition to do whatever was necessary. Facing the keys and time signatures,” sophomore phones as miniature glow sticks as they fosters cooperation and coordination among inevitable challenges of live performances, bassoonist Jack Wu explained. “The hardest swayed with the beat. teams by allowing the robots to compete in the JP Stevens Theatre Company relied part of pit is that no two shows are ever the Al Chez concluded the night by inviting two opposing alliances, each made of three heavily on the art and technical crew, who same. Maintaining consistency is what really the entire JP Top Jazz Band and a select few distinct teams. In between the matches, the were well-equipped with the skills to save makes it difficult, but you always feel great jazz members from other high school jazz WarHawks pit crew fixed up the robot and the show. Sophomore Hannah Xue, who after a successful show.” bands onstage. In this final number, many solved any problems to facilitate a smoother worked backstage during the performances, Despite the occasional hardships, Into the students had the privilege of debuting their performance in the next match. said, “What you see onstage is made possible Woods was another successful production ability to “improv.” Senior Justin Jones, a While the competition did unfold on an by what happens backstage. I make sure mics by the JP Stevens Theatre Company. Most Top Jazz saxophone player, reminisced, uneven playing field, mainly due to funding, function properly so that they can be heard in importantly, the musical created strong “Playing with Al Chez was unforgettable— support, and resource discrepancies, the the auditorium. Prop people are constantly bonds among all the members. Sophomore he is an inspiration to all future musicians, WarHawks nevertheless managed to place on standby to make sure everything is in the Matt Flores, who played Jack, said, “The including myself.” 28th out of 38 competing teams, a significant right place. There are even hair and makeup musical has been so important to me because I wanted the night to continue; I wanted to improvement from prior competitions. people there to assist with quick costume I get to do what I love with the people I love. hear the roar of the saxophone, the runs on Senior Nikki Huang said, “Our team really changes. But the most important roles lie in The company has truly become a family, the piano, the majestic trumpet. I returned stood out this year. We were unique because the hands of the people in the booth; they’re and I admire how all of us share the same home wanting to know more about jazz, so our student members were independently the ones who control the show. They’re in passion. We have worked extremely hard to I began researching great jazz artists and working on the robot while other teams had charge of lighting and sound, which can get to where we are.” pieces. adult mentors fixing their creations.” Despite make or break a show.” Notably, the students In the end, roughly 150 hours of rehearsal “So what is jazz?” my dad asked when I being eliminated in the qualification rounds, in charge of lighting simulated a giant using and hard work led to a production nothing returned. I laughed and responded, “Jazz the team gained invaluable knowledge. shadows and an electronically modified less than excellent. means something different to everyone.” Students who are part of the Robotics program learn much more than just the technical aspects involved in the field. With Mr. JPS, contd. a focus on cooperation and teamwork, the event. Raymond Mallia-Nunez was dressed competition fosters professional growth in a brown flying squirrel onesie, and Bryan that not only allows members to engage in Lin cleverly brought a plush car and his a fun and rewarding experience, but also sleeping bag with a highway lane design to sets them on the track for bright futures demonstrate how he sleeps on the road. and successful careers. The members of the Then it was time for each contestant to JP Stevens WarHawks hope to capture this shine in the talent event. It commenced with spirit and integrate it into their preparation Jong Lee, Mr. January, hopping onstage in for future challenges. red socks with three other “Santa’s Little Helpers.” They boogied to “Jingle Bell Rock” and performed the can-can to “It’s Raining Neon, contd. Men” by Geri Halliwell. unavailable to them, such as soccer and Following this, Sridhar Sriram, Mr. bowling. “Knowing someone who is autistic, February, started to play his viola, but his I understand how hard life is for kids with friends advised him to show off his skills as ISHIKA GOVIL special needs because they are given very the varsity soccer goalie. After he blocked Seniors Rahul Bose, Bryan Svitok, Jong Chan Lee, and Andrew Iroff limited choices in this world. It touches my a series of shots, Sridhar was challenged to pose as they parody the iconic Mean Girls’ Christmas dance for the talent heart to see them learn how to play a sport continue while blindfolded, eliciting gasps portion of the show. and be part of a sports league in which they and applause from the audience. traffic never bothered me anyway.” Kevin it melted in his hand. He continued with an are treated as family,” said senior Harakh Stephen Susan, Mr. March, also known remarked, “I was listening to ‘Let It Go’ a amusing conversation with senior Iris Wong Shah, the Corresponding Secretary of the as the “Rap Monster,” expressed his love of week before the show, and decided that I about wigs and tight t-shirts. National Honor Society. fast food in his parody of “Baby Got Back” as should make a parody. I thought of some Abishek Seshasayee, Mr. October, opened The event’s decorations contributed much his backup dancers showered him in paper funny things from JP that I encountered and with a video of himself considering solving to the event’s success. “We honestly could money. The audience chortled as he rapped, made it into a song that would hopefully get the Rubik’s Cube for Mr. JPS, but later not have done this without the National Art “That burger gotta have a bun...those fries the crowd laughing!” deciding to form the dance team October’s Honor Society and their artistic talent. The gotta be on the side.” Chris Ricigliano, Mr. July, demonstrated Very Own (OVO). He and his four dancers teamwork of Key Club and National Honor “Girls get ready to love them, and boys get his boxing training in a playful video, which performed the robot dance and swung their Society made the preparations go smoother ready to hate them!” the hostesses shouted included him beating up Mr. Boufford, hips to pop songs like “Suit & Tie” by Justin because everyone knew each other,” as Raymond Mallia-Nunez, Mr. April, ran his AP U.S. Government teacher, and Ms. Timberlake. commented Key Club Recording Secretary out with his band, Boy 5. As the audience Pawlikowski. By singing a rendition of After the lights flipped back on, a gold Gurleen Kaur. The National Art Honor clapped along, they sang and rapped to a “Eye of the Tiger,” Chris demonstrated his ringlet belt jingled on Bryan Lin, Mr. Society created a skyline with an outline medley of songs from the last four decades, willpower to train hard and subsequently November, as he played the trumpet to of life-sized people dancing and made a including the classic “ABC” by the Jackson won in an onstage boxing match against the tune of Shakira’s “Hips Don’t Lie.” He backdrop with the words “Neon Nights” 5 and recent hit “Best Song Ever” by One senior Calvin Deng. commented, “When I first came into high written in glow-in-the-dark paint. Direction. Brendan Wu, Mr. August, showcased his school as a freshman, I was kind of awkward, Students and teachers alike transformed Brian Ho, Mr. May, demonstrated his skills guitar expertise as he sentimentally sang but Dean [Mr. DeNicola] helped me develop their free glow sticks into various accessories in “Kung Fu Fighting” when he appeared to “Daughters” by John Mayer, accompanied as a trumpet player and gain my confidence.” and danced with friends, producing streaks slice an opponent in half. In reality, a person by senior Tommy Pan on the piano. While Once the contestants thanked their of neon colors in the darkness. Free drinks dressed in all black held the pants of the Brendan appeared confident on stage, he supporters, senior Jaashir Morris announced and desserts, such as brownies and cupcakes victim, so that when the person moved them, later admitted, “I was sitting and waiting in a British accent that the winners of Mr. with neon-colored icing, were provided for the victim’s body appeared to be cut off. The there for fifteen minutes, so I was actually Muscles and Mr. Congeniality were Sridhar anybody tired of dancing. audience stared in awe at his incredible pretty nervous.” However, after he was Sriram and Abishek Seshasayee, respectively. In the end, the genuine camaraderie moves and strength, especially when he greeted by resounding cheers from the Finally, the moment of truth. “And among the students truly outshone the neon karate-kicked someone and seemed to send audience, Brendan realized that “[he] the winner of the 22nd Mr. JPS is…Chris colors themselves. Junior Rita Wang said, him flying in midair. had nothing to be afraid of” with such a Ricigliano!” As the crowd whooped and “Neon Night was something I was pressured After a short Hunger Games trivia round, supportive audience. screamed, Chris proudly donned his green into going by my friend, but I’m so glad I did Kevin Zheng, Mr. June, performed a parody Chola Kondeti, Mr. September, opened crown and commented, “I’m so speechless because we danced the night away!” The of “Let It Go,” showing JP pride as he his performance with a humorous video and excited. The rehearsals were tiring, but success of the dance helped raise more than elicited laughter with the phrases “in math of himself pointing a dagger carved from it paid off. I’ll always remember putting on $1000 to donate to Buddy Ball of Edison. It class I always caught up on sleep” and “the chocolate at Ms. Nixon, only to discover that a great show with eleven other great guys.” was a good night for a good cause.

snippets of JP At a life and beyond dollars raised cans of paint (and for210: the Hands of Hope stored16: in the Theatre counting)1,502: songs in Mr. glance food pantry by the Company’s art shelves Alfonzo’s ever-famous By GRACE WU, freshman HAWKS club playlists and SAMANTHIKA DEVALARAJU, junior

PAGE 10 SPORTS APRIL 2014 In Favor of European Football Softball a solid fan base. On the other hand, in the in America as it is in the rest of the world. By HARSHA GOPALAKRISHNAN, junior By KAREN JIANG, freshman English Premier League, teams with rich “Association football,” as soccer was FOOTBALL TO SOME. Fútbol to others. histories hold age-old rivalries, and matches originally called, was created in Britain THE JP STEVENS softball team welcomed Soccer to Americans. Despite its massive between powerhouses, such as Chelsea and during the 19th century, and the sport slowly the spring season with tiresome hours of appeal throughout Europe, Asia, and South Manchester United, garner international spread into the rest of Europe due to the training, a solid lineup, and an enthusiastic America, the world’s most popular sport attention. Unfortunately for America, this close proximities of neighboring countries, outlook. The team has already defeated has yet to captivate the American public. kind of history simply does not exist in the such as the Netherlands and Germany. strong adversaries, such as Bishop Ahr, and After all, when was the last time American MLS, and most teams have a relatively weak America has typically been opposed to looks to pose a threat to the other major families eagerly gathered as avidly adapting British traditions, and GMC competitors. as they do for the Super Bowl to this stigma may have prevented The team is led by seniors Stephanie watch a competitive soccer game? soccer from taking root in the Garrison, Paige Sklar, and Julianna Zilli. Four years ago during the World U.S. The American media is Offensively, Kayla Smith (10) leads the team Cup, and never again after that? also culpable for soccer’s lack of with a .500 batting average, followed by This phenomenon has stirred popularity in the country. Unlike Amanda Lombardi (11) with a .333 batting theories from experts around the football and baseball, soccer has average. The defense includes Stephanie, globe. Some say that soccer lacks only one break throughout the Gabriella Young (10), and Amanda Lombardi American viewers because of its entire game. This only allows (11), who cover first, second, and third dearth of action. Often, a game for one opportunity to advertise, base, respectively. Fresh talent Julie of soccer can end scoreless, and which leads to less money and, in Siecinski (9) and Brianna Zederbaum (9) to the unenthusiastic, the game turn, less soccer airtime. Various also contribute to the team’s success. This may feel like an utter waste of European teams circumvent this lineup of experienced upperclassmen and time. But to the avid fan, the real problem by advertising on the new underclassmen creates a strong team joy of soccer is in those seemingly players’ jerseys for maximum chemistry. monotonous, drawn-out plays. visibility. Teams like Manchester Though the Lady Hawks have played The ebb and flow between the City display prominent logos of well previously, they are still looking to take offense and defense, the strategy, their sponsors (in this case, Etihad care of some unfinished business in the Red the possession, the formation— Airways). If America follows this Division. Stephanie Zhang (10) expressed this is where the true beauty example, the MLS can attract the team’s outlook when she said, “Although of the sport lies. The American more businesses and slowly rise we’re having a rather slow and rough start to public is supposedly unfamiliar up to the national stage. the season, I firmly believe that we will stay with these types of games, where the score is following. Still, most American soccer fans Regardless of the reasons behind soccer’s together and come out strong. Last spring, low and highlights are few and far between in find recourse in the U.S. Women’s National relative unpopularity in our culture, recent our record was really impressive and there each match. However, this argument flies in Soccer Team (USWNT), which includes statistics show that it is on the rise. It is now is no doubt in my mind that we can pull the face of logic, considering the popularity famous names such as Abby Wambach, Hope the most played sport among children in the an even better record this season.” Other of baseball in the nation, as well as other Solo, and Alex Morgan. The USWNT has nation—hence the popularity of the well- team goals include advancing to the county low-action sports such as NASCAR and golf. performed well in recent years, resulting in a known term “soccer mom”—and is seeing a and state tournaments and preserving the Another reason for soccer’s low popularity steady rise in the popularity of international resurgence in the high school circuit as well. tradition of having a stellar defense. As long in America is that American soccer leagues, soccer in America. Perhaps it is only a matter of time before as the Lady Hawks maintain their steadfast such as Major League Soccer (MLS), simply Furthermore, history can also offer a the Super Bowl is sidelined in favor of a concentration and work ethic, many do not have enough rivalries to generate reason as to why soccer is not as popular Champions League final. victories will be in store for them. Tennis the Menace Murugasan (10), who has improved greatly at Bridgewater-Raritan, a team ranked 9th implementing a demanding work ethic By ALYSSA DESAI, sophomore from his freshman year by diligently training in the state. Competing as underdogs, the and instilling a focused mentality in each THE BOYS’ TENNIS team is heading back during the off-season. Tarush Aneja (10) has boys managed to pull through a close 3-2 of her players. Her coaching techniques to the courts this season to defend its title. As also climbed up the ranks to first doubles, upset over their opponents. Second singles are lauded every season; just this fall, the 2013 GMC overall team champions, the alongisde newcomer Alex Telson (9). When Sarthak Mohanty (11), third singles Vishal Coach Pisano was awarded the GMC Hawks are eager to surpass last year’s already asked about what aspects of his game he Walia (10), and second doubles pair Brian Ho Coach of the Year for the girls’ tennis outstanding season, and with an influx of wanted to focus on this year, Tarush noted (11) and Arjun Krishnan (9) each contributed team. She will undoubtedly continue to new players and that he is “working a win. This tremendous victory elevated the pass on valuable expertise to the boys. a demanding to improve [his] boys’ ranking from in the top 20 to 8th in the With the players’ talent and Coach Pisano’s training regimen, mental strength state; hopefully, it will also reflect the team’s guidance, the team will strive to surpass the their chance of and confidence to success for the rest of the season. previous season’s success. success this year get through tough Under the leadership of a strict but After years of consistent excellence on seems great. matches,” which encouraging coach, the Hawks train hard the court, the boys’ tennis team remains Leading the is a critical part of with drills that emphasize strength and focused on achieving their personal goals Hawks is second winning in tennis. technique. Varsity coach Ellen Pisano has and continues to work toward becoming the singles player The varsity team been crucial to the success of the team, next GMC and State champions. Sarthak Mohanty also has some select (11). As the sole new additions this captain of the year, including team, Sarthak junior Brian acknowledges that Ho. The second he has big shoes doubles player has to fill. “As captain been committed I just want to be to playing tennis able to lead the for JP since his team to another freshman year, county title as well attracted by the as a respectable team’s close bond state ranking,” and the sport’s he said, humbly competitive nature. accepting the Both Tarush and immense pressure Brian are excited that being a junior to make strong captain of such impressions this an accomplished ISHIKA GOVIL year. They, and the team entails. Brian Ho (11) jumps to hit a high rest of the team, are When asked about backhand volley while at the net. looking forward to schools that he looks forward to facing, what the rest of the season entails. Sarthak hopes to lead his team to beat South So far, the boys have a flawless record Brunswick, which is a long-time rival of of 4-0. Although three of their first four JP, as well as other competitors such as games were rained out, the new key players Livingston, perennial state championship and team spirit have instilled in everyone contenders. a constant passion for the game. They Fortunately, Sarthak is backed by a talented dominated their first two matches against group of underclassmen who possess skills Piscataway and Monroe, with none of beyond their years. Setting the bar for the the players dropping a single set. Then, a younger players is 1st singles player Gokul challenge presented itself at an away game APRIL 2014 SPORTS PAGE 11 Catch Us If You Can One and Done athletes from around the world. Previous to make it in the NBA.” On the contrary, By BREANA TAN, sophomore By NIKIT NAINWAL, sophomore participants in this prestigious competition Lakers star Kobe Bryant opposes a college DURING SCHOOL PEP rallies, the stars of include Usain Bolt, who competed in 2003. AT THE END of his senior year, Nerlens attendance requirement and supports a the JP Stevens track team often race against Cooke will be representing the United States Noel was projected to be the number one player’s freedom to choose. “I’m always a their teachers, energizing the crowd with at the international championship in Cali, pick for the 2013 draft. However, according firm believer in us being able to make our their good-natured sprinting and hurdling. Colombia in the summer of 2015. to the National Basketball Association’s own decisions,” he said. During track meets, the athletes are on the On the girls’ team, sophomore Jamina (NBA) rules and regulations, Noel had to The “one and done,” or “two and done” move again—except this time, runners from Morris consistently maintains an impressive complete a year of college at the University as Adam Silver would have it, is a double- other teams are the ones trying to catch performance, earning medals in all her of Kentucky in order to be eligible for the edged sword. Players who are not ready for up. This new season events and gaining a draft. This requirement would prove to the limelight of the NBA will likely benefit brings unexpected reputation as the fastest be more harmful than beneficial. After from the experience that college basketball challenges and high short distance runner tearing his ACL during a game against the provides. In transitioning from high school expectations for the and hurdler on the University of Florida Gators last February, to college, they are given a chance to realize running Hawks, but team. Junior captain his draft position dropped to sixth in June. the intensity of playing on live, national under the experienced Ashleigh Anderson, Instead of training and showcasing his television. On the other hand, the best guidance of Coaches the most seasoned ability for his much-anticipated NBA debut, players, such as Nerlens Noel, are penalized; Allen, Martinez, Riggi, distance runner on the he had to recover. Thus, on draft day, he was enrolling in college only endangers their and Petrucelli, both girls’ team, recently immediately traded off by the New Orleans opportunities at professional careers. the boys’ and girls’ placed first at a 1600 Pelicans to the Philadelphia 76ers. The discussion is also being analyzed track teams are sure meter event and can What exactly did Noel have to gain from from another point of view: legality. Louis to leave the other proudly say that she is college? Pechman, an employment attorney, has runners biting the able to keep up with A player who excels at a sport can typically claimed that the age restriction initially set dust. Coach Allen, a six-foot- become a professional directly after high out in the collective bargaining agreement, The boys’ team, two running machine. school. For the best athletes, this jump is signed in 2005 and renewed in 2011, led by seniors Panth Coach Allen spoke of often accompanied by multimillion dollar discriminates by age and thus violates certain Patel, Jong Chan Lee, the team’s expectations contracts and lucrative advertising deals. state laws. For example, in New York City, Anthony Aurelio, for this season, saying, This is not the case in basketball, where where the NBA headquarters are located, the Jaashir Morris, and “We are always looking rising stars, no matter how productive in New York State Human Rights Law forbids Mark Cooke, and the to improve and grow as high school, are required to be 19 years of employers from refusing to hire an individual girls’ team, led by a team, and we expect age and to have completed a year of college “18 years of age or older…because of such senior Kristen Shea to compete in all events before they are eligible to join the NBA. This individual’s age.” Pechman believes that it and juniors Ashleigh ISHIKA GOVIL at more competitive rule, derisively called “one and done” for the will take a special 18-year-old, with skills Anderson, Urvi Saini, Jamina Morris (10) sprints meets.” one year spent in college before players bolt parallel to those of LeBron James or Kobe and Olivia Kononiuk, down the track in preparation Though the Hawks for the draft, has posed a problem for many Bryant and yet who is denied entrance into are fully prepared to for an upcoming school meet. have many individual of the best high school athletes. Rather than the NBA, to bring a victorious suit against dominate all of their opponents at meets, talents that they pool together to form the getting drafted, they must take one year the age regulation age regulation set by the surpass previously set records, and build team, they know that the key to their success of general education courses, which often collective bargaining agreement currently upon the track legacy. “I think we’ve got more is being able to enjoy each other’s company provide no benefit for a career in the NBA. in place. Because antitrust attacks against talent on the team now than we had before,” on and off the track. The team’s traditions Adam Silver, the commissioner of the collective bargaining agreements usually said senior Panth Patel. Jaashir Morris, Panth include window shopping together on NBA since February 2014, wants to raise fail, only a player capable of demonstrating Patel, Mark Cooke, Jong Chan Lee, and Jose “Spike Night” at Runners’ High, a beloved the age limit further, proposing that the age inevitable loss from a challenged action Delli Paoli have all previously advanced to running store in Metuchen, and admiring limit for players be changed to twenty. While could win in such a lawsuit. the National Competition during the winter the track and field spikes. The team also dons the NBA officials support his idea, many of Whichever way this plays out, the final track season. On top of that, Jaashir Morris green and gold on Wednesdays or on days the players do not. On one hand, Arizona decision will likely rest in the hands of the placed 7th at the USA Track and Field of important meets. As Captain Ashleigh assistant coach Damon Stoudamire points players. The next collective bargaining Junior Olympics, and Mark Cooke will be Anderson put it, “We are a great family. At out that, as a scout, he finds that many “one agreement discussion for the NBA is set for running at the International Association of the end of the day, nothing means more to us and done” college players are not ready to 2017. Unless another LeBron James steps Athletics Federations (IAAF) World Youth than being able to connect with one another play in the NBA. “A lot of kids,” Stoudamire out of high school anytime before then, the Championships, which features the best as runners, teammates, and friends.” said, “don’t have a clue to what it took dispute will have to be settled another time. Diary of a Multi-Sport Athlete the rest of my family struggles to Febreeze stores. My voracious appetite has become burger possible with a large order of fries. By NATASHA RAI, junior every single surface I have made contact my prized possession, second only to my Thankfully, I don’t have license to succumb BEING AN ATHLETE is difficult, but with. If it was raining during practice, my team awards. I’ve tried every type of Special to these insane cravings because I know I’d being a multi-sport athlete is even tougher. house further transforms into a biohazard K granola bar available in the U.S. and I’m be kicked off the team after my third Big Most athletes who only participate in one facility—I can’t even bother trying to step first in line for every new flavor of Gatorade, Mac. sport often complain about the hardships inside without wiping down my shoes and even though the original lemon- As a multi-sport athlete, my life always of staying several hours after school for changing into new clothes. lime flavor will always revolves around my team. Samantha Dzema practices and matches during the season. This year is special because the new be my favorite. (10), a soccer, basketball, and lacrosse player, For a multi-sport athlete like me, the late turf has at least lessened the amount of said, “When I was a freshman, [playing] nights and sore muscles have become a mud and grass stains on my uniform. sports was the only way I met people. daily part of my life. During the school day, Every year, though, I look forward to It took up all my time, but all of the I am usually only half-conscious due to my my birthday, mostly because of all friendships and memories I gained made lack of sleep, so my conversations are often the new athletic gear I get. I’ve it all worth it.” My sports families include a combination of a snore and an incoherent received athletic pants of every the coaches and trainers as well. I mumble. After school, I constantly work brand, compression shorts of every never would have thought that I would through all the chaos of the season, whether size, and UnderArmour for every have a better bond with the school it be tryouts or the GMCs. In the time temperature. Throughout the years, trainer than I have with some of my between each season, I get pestered with the I’ve accumulated a rainbow spectrum teachers, and despite my inability same questions: Why would you take on all of pre-wrap, worthy of putting to remember more than five math of this work every season? Aren’t you tired on Instagram. While traditional formulas at a time, I have essentially of playing sports every day? To save myself students’ closets are filled with crop memorized the injury chart inside the from future reiterations, here is my answer. tops and blouses from Forever 21, trainer’s office. I have also stared holes For starters, playing all these sports mine is filled with old jerseys with into the webpage of NJ High School Sports, ensures that I never get bored... actually, it sports camp logos or clever Nike which is now my laptop’s home page. Every ensures that I do not have time to be bored. slogans. Instead of Toms or sandals, I have My time I log onto my computer after practice, it When I am not knocked out during hour- an army of slides and sneakers stacked up on fellow reminds me that I just spent over an hour of long bus rides to and from games (sleeping the floor. My dream part-time job is now to athletes my life chasing a ball. with one eye open to watch out for anyone work at Sport’s Authority or Dick’s Sporting bring Still, all joking aside, even if I do not enjoy taking pictures, of course), I am icing and Goods, because who needs coupons when their own every hour that I spend at practice, I always applying Biofreeze to every part of my body. I can get an employee discount? Believe it snacks t o value the feeling of achievement during team After training, which involves sprinting or not, I visit these stores more than I visit the pre- practice pictures and team championships. Every and stretching for three hours, I end up Menlo Park Mall, and my Cyber Mondays feast, and every stare I get as I attempt to stuff my athletic becoming a couch potato at home, too sore are spent checking out deals on new pairs of day is a potluck of bag inside my locker and every mile I run in to budge and start my work. And nothing cleats. energy bars and the rain becomes worth it when I hear my exhausts me more than coming back home Besides buying sports gear, the rest of my fruits. Despite name on the announcements or when I jog to a gargantuan pile of homework after a shopping schedule is filled with wandering all these healthy snacks, I always end a across the track and my classmates cheer (a tough or disappointing game. All the while, around the snack aisles of grocery chain practice or a game craving the greasiest little half-heartedly) during the pep rally.