This holiday season, students, faculty, and staff have been spreading holiday cheer throughout the community. One activity complements their spirit with a selfless act of service: participating in the annual toy drive.
As part of their year-long partnership, the School has joined with the Friends of Foster Children organization for this year’s collection. Friends of Foster Children is a nonprofit servicing relative and non-relative caregivers, foster, and adoptive parents throughout Palm Beach County. Donations to this year’s effort directly impact less fortunate children and their families.
In addition, the Upper School’s Athletic Fellowship club has been work in tandom to specifically collect sport-centric toys such as footballs, basketballs, and soccer balls for the families.
Dr. Yates, the on-campus leader of the toy drive shares, “It warms my heart to imagine a foster kiddo waking up Christmas morning and unwrapping a new Lego set or a new action figure and to know our students
have a part in making that happen.”
Dr. Yates’ devotion to the Toy Drive stems from her personal experiences with foster children, “When I went away to college, my mother opened her home to local foster children. One year I was home for the holiday break when a young girl arrived in the middle of the night with only a pair of pajamas and a few other items. The next day we took her to the mall to buy her some winter clothes. I will never forget her pure joy in getting to buy something ‘with tags on it.’ She said, ‘I have never had anything with tags on it before.’All these years later, her joy and excitement about that new winter coat (which she proudly wore everywhere) still humbles and inspires me to give back to those in need.”
Dr. Yates’ story exposes the true purpose of the toy drive- to bring hope, joy and unity during the holidays, not just to provide material gifts.
Sophomore Landon Strauss has taken the initiative to join Dr. Yates in organizing this year’s Toy Drive. Passionate about making a difference in his community, Strauss shares, “The best part about putting together the
toy drive is being able to help those who are underprivileged and give back in a unique way.”
Strauss and other students have worked hard to put forth a meaningful effort for this holiday season. “Some of our goals are to have over 60 items donated and put a smile on the faces of those who are less fortunate,” said Strauss.
Observing the number of donated items, as they fill up the student services conference area, Administrative Assistant to the Head of Upper School Mrs. Lisa Badolati reflects, “Families are so very generous, it warms my heart to think about the difference their genersity will make for so many!”
This toy drive has been an incredible opportunity for the Benjamin School, providing the invaluable lesson of empathy and generosity. It is easy to get caught up in the midst of the holidays and to forget the true purpose of the season. This toy drive provides a great reminder to give back to those in need. Students, faculty, and staff have until December 18th to bring in or order gifts via the Amazon wishlist.
Happy Holidays
Assembly Celebrates Talent, Traditions, and Community
Chase Zur Associate Editor Music, dance, memories, and a bit of holiday magic filled Benjamin Hall once again as the Upper School gathered for its annual holiday assembly on December 10. The event delivered a much needed dose of warmth and good cheer as classes finished and exams began.
Planning such an event is no small task, as Upper School Science Department Chair, Dr. James Haley, who has organized the assembly for the past eight years, explained, “The purpose of the assembly is to give members of our community a chance to share their talents, stories, and traditions with the community.”
Dr. Haley works closely with Performing Arts Department Chair Mrs. Sara Salivar and Upper School Music Director Dr. Henderson to select the performance pieces and coordinate speeches in which students share stories about Christmas, Hanukkah, and Kwanzaa, and faculty members reflect on their own holiday memories.
“Each of us has a unique story to tell, and it is gratifying to provide a platform for them to share those stories,” Haley reflected. Haley’s meticulous planning ensures the assembly remains a celebration of all traditions.
The event kicked off with remarks from Head of Upper School Mr. Fletcher Carr, who praised Dr. Haley for his dedication while highlighting
the significance of the assembly as an opportunity for everyone to come together. In an unexpected twist, Mr. Carr revealed that he and several other faculty members—Dr. Henderson, Mr. Peck, Mr. Curtis, and Mr. Jacobsen—had formed a “holiday band.” Their lively performance set a joyful tone for the assembly, with Mr. Carr on vocals and his colleagues dancing in the background.
Following this, the Dance Technique Class presented “A Celtic Christmas,” a colorful wirlwind of a dance whose polish contrasted well with the authenticity of the faculty band’s jam.
Senior Rebekkah Merkel then took the stage to share her family’s
Hanukkah traditions. She explained how her family celebrates with homemade latkes, game nights, and movies over the eight nights. "And, like many Jews on Christmas Eve, we order in a bunch of Chinese food and talk for hours,” Merkel shared.
The Upper School Concert Band delivered a performance of “Hanukkah, Festival of Lights.” Senior Maddox Hoffman, a clarinetist, reflected on the experience: “I always love performing for the school because we have such a welcoming audience. I had a solo in the Hanukkah song we performed, which was really exciting. We worked hard for the performance, so it was great to see our hard work come together."
Next, Senior Liv Caiazzo shared her personal Christmas traditions. She spoke about how her family has maintained holiday traditions despite changes in her life. Caiazzo recalled picking out the biggest tree at a local farm in Massachusetts, decorating it with picture ornaments her grandmother had made, and how her family continues to celebrate in Florida, blending new traditions with those from her childhood.
With a rousing version of “Sleigh Bells,” the Chamber Ensemble introduced Upper School Substitute Teacher, Ms. Marina Gasparini whose presented a personal reflection on the magic of Christmas.
Ms. Gasparini shared how, as a child, she believed in a secret magic that could make all the terrible things in the world go away. She connected this childhood belief to the Christmas truce of 1914, when soldiers on both sides of World War I stopped fighting to come together and celebrate Christmas. "Kindness in the middle
of war...it only needs to happen once to prove it can happen again," Gaspirini said.
The assembly continued with a special performance of “O, Holy Night,” with Upper School Chemistry teacher Mr. Abigail Milce playing the saxophone.
Senior Victoria Powell and sophomore Jayden Cosbey Mosely shared insights into Kwanzaa traditions, focusing on the importance of family, community, and heritage.
Social Studies teacher Mr. Graham Wik then shared a personal memory of attending midnight Mass in New England and spoke about creating new holiday traditions with his wife and son. He specifically emphasized the importance of being present and appreciating the special moments that come with the holidays
The Upper School Chorus continued the event with a sing-along compilation of carols, before the Dazzlers’ brought the curtain down with their routine, “E-mail Santa.”
Junior Annabelle Bridger, a member of the choir, loved being able to add to the holiday cheer. “It was so fun to perform in front of the school. At first I was nervous but once we got up there it was so nice to sing with my friends,’’ Bridger exclaimed.
Finally, Head of School Mr. Faus delivered closing remarks, thanking everyone for their participation. This year’s holiday assembly once again reminded everyone of the joy that comes from sharing traditions, talents, and stories. It was a celebration of the diverse experiences that make the holiday season meaningful and a testament to the strength and unity of the Benjamin community.
Dr. Henderson conducts the Upper School band during the annual holiday assembly. (Photo by Jeremy Ferris)
Dazzlers sparkle in Macy’s Parade Contest
Haley Roth Editor-in-Chief
On Nov. 28, several Dazzlers attended the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. The parade is held in New York City and is broadcast live to millions of Americans on various television channels such as NBC.
The Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade performance is a yearly tradition for the team, and an important skill and team-building milestone.
This year, the group joined a lineup of star-studded performances and show-stopping balloons showcased throughout the streets of New York. Popular musical artists performing at the parade included singers such as Alex Warren, Dan + Shay, and Dasha. Various marching bands and dance studios displayed their talents as well.
Mrs. Sara Salivar, Upper School Dance Coach, explained why the parade is crucial to dancers, “The Macy’s Thanksgiving Day parade is an American icon that is a highlight and honor for students who have the opportunity to perform...Our Dazzlers have been performing in the Macy’s
Day parade for the past 15 years. They go every two years so that juniors and seniors can experience the event together. It is a wonderful bonding and dance training experience.”
Lots of planning and practice occurred before the dancers even stepped foot in New York.
“Beforehand, we had to learn choreography, and then during rehearsals, they just ran the choreography and drilled it and cleaned it up,” noted junior Alyssa Saraqi
“The dancers prepare all semester in technique classes of all genres including ballet, jazz, tap, contempo-
“We were there for five days: Sunday through Thursday. Most days consisted of rehearsals during the day and an event at night. The rehearsals ranged anywhere from four to eight hours,” explained junior Bryce Seger.
Among the evening events were attendance at Broadway shows and a visit to the Rockettes Christmas Spectacular at Radio City Hall.
On parade day, there were various setbacks and difficulties due to the weather: “It was raining and it was thirty degrees, so we were all shivering and weren’t able to dance to the best of our abilities. If the weather would’ve cooperated, it would have been much more fun,” shared Seger.
Despite these complications, the Dazzlers still had a wonderful performance, “The parade was challenging, to say the least. It was very cold and we were all soaking wet but we just pushed through to perform and make it to the end,” said Saraqi.
Seger shared her memories of the trip, “My favorite parts were seeing the Wicked and going out to a restaurant called Tony’s.”
While this year’s Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade may have been cold and rainy, the Dazzlers’ performance most certainly made it feel like a warm and wholesome holiday.
Lila Brodner Staff Writer
2024 has been an eventful year for everyone, but at the Benjamin School a lot has changed. Out of everything that has happened during 2024, these are the top stories.
Safety Features
At the beginning of 2024, the school installed pin pads to every door. To be able to get into the building, you have to have your ID and know your pincode to get into the building. Also, during summer, the school installed cameras around campus to have better security. “Im happy to know that we are safe and secure on this campus; the guards and the cameras make me feel safe,” says junior, Leanna DePaulis. The cameras and pin pads were a great addition to the campus.
New Dog
At the beginning of this school year, there was a new mental health dog added to campus. Mrs. Rizzatano’s dog, named Mannie, is the newest dog to help the students feel relaxed and get cuddles on Monday. “I love it when the dogs come to campus, Mannie is a great new addition and I love saying hi to her. It is a great way to start my week,” says junior Emma Markin.
our curriculum and a palpable energy to our hallways.
Digital Signage
Drivers approaching campus from Central Blvd. can more easily locate the Upper School thanks to the Class of 2024’s gift to our community: an LED welcome sign.
Heart-Safe Campus
This fall the Upper School campus became the first in Palm Beach County to earn the distinction of being named a Heart-Safe Banner School by Project Adam, Nicklaus Children’s Health System, and Palm Beach Gardens Fire and Rescue.
New Clubs
The club fair is an exciting day for the students. This year we had many new clubs added to the fair, Film Club, Kids Luv Chemistry, Real Estate, Blessing in a Backpack, and a Cricket Club. These clubs help build
Test Preparation Mandated
To encourage students to reach their potential on standardized tests that are critical for college admissions, the Upper School administration has contracted the services of Test Innovators. Mandatory test prep sessions have been sprinkled into the schedule, with Mr. Wik asserting that early results look promising.
New Lunches
School lunches are what most students eat at lunch; everyone enjoys them, but a change is good. Instead of pasta on Fridays, the school changed the option to Bolay. A lot of students enjoy the new lunch option, and are very happy their ideas were heard and chosen.
“I love the Bolay lunch, I am so happy it’s healthy and delicious,” says junior Riley McCaughey.
junior Madison Jayson.
AP Pre-Calc AP Pre-Calculus is the newest course to join the CollegeBoard’s AP roster; it is designated to prepare students for higher-level math classes. Leading the school’s inaugural group of scholars, the indominatable Chair of the Math department, Mr. Mike Ruggie.
Spitfire and Steps
Every year the drama department show two shows, one during fall and spring. The musical in April was Spitfire Grill, “The Spitfire Grill is a heartfelt musical about a young woman named Percy, recently released from prison, who seeks a fresh start in the small town of Gilead, Wisconsin. Through her work at the struggling Spitfire Grill and a unique raffle contest to save it, Percy transforms the lives of the townspeople while finding redemption and a sense
, a comedy
thriller about Richard Hannay, whonage after being accused of a murder, entertained us. The story followed Hannay’s daring escape and efforts to uncover the mystery of the "39 Steps" while being pursued by both police and spies.
New Graduation Requirement
To earn one’s diploma, one now needs to earn a semester’s credit in a performing art (theatre, dance, BTV).
Athletic Dominance
Perhaps no story was bigger in 2024 than that of the Upper School athletes. With state titles in golf, tennis, lacrosse, and track and field, the trophy cases were overstuffed last spring, leaving the haul of awards from this fall and winter searching for a home.
2024 was a great year, filled with many memories and change. The change added great additions to Benjamin and as the new year comes, change will continue.
9th Grade: Mrs. Gold’s Advisory
10th Grade: Sra. Lopez’s Advisory
The Dazzlers performed as part of the Spirit of America dance squad. Pictured above (l to r): Nickie Walsh, Bridget Stein, Catalina Sanchez, Ava Reece, Bryce Seger, Lulu Swank, Mackenzie Walsh, Alyssa Saraqi, and Ava Crawford.
Stella Liberman, Caroline Yohe Staff Writers
Over the past year, various national and international events have occurred, changing political landscapes and altering the history of the world. Tensions, conflicts, and other issues have arisen, leading to the need for treaties and peace-making efforts. But, the news this year was not only negative. Many innovative changes and personal victories have been achieved in 2024. All of these news-worthy topics have been documented through journalism, tv coverage, and newspapers.
The Israel-Gaza War
The current conflict, which seems to have only worsened since it began with the attacks on Israel by Hamas last October, continues to be among the most pressing of global concerns. With continuing losses of life, there seems to be no peace in sight among the two factions. Recent turmoil in Syria has only increased tension in the area.
India-Bangladesh Tensions
India’s strained relationship with Bangladesh along with their grievances over the subversion of the rights of Hindu minorities in the state has only worsened their relations in 2024 even further. There were disagreements between them, relations became worse when the Indian Foreign Secretary’s visit to Bangladesh occurred in December, when there was widespread anger caused by attacks on this minority in India.
The Bangladeshi government’s treatment of Hindus under its present regime also contributed to anger and hostility between the two nations, which began even earlier and more thickened over the years, weakening the soft strong political ties that had existed once between these countries. The crisis in Sudan has been responsible for producing possibly the worst displacement crisis of recent times, the facts and numbers demonstrate this as well. As the violence refuses to stop, millions have moved out of their homeland and are residing in East African nations like South Sudan. The United Nations has cautioned that the scenario is only worsening and that the resources and the efforts of non profit organizations are unable to meet the rising demand of the affected people. The developing crisis has brought to the forefront the existing crisis in the sub region.
Making history in Mexico
In October, Claudia Sheinbaum was sworn in as Mexico’s first female president–and the first Jewish person to hold the post.
Women in Zimbabwe
Women have fought the climate war in Zimbabwe and come out victorious. Many are adopting new methods of farming which do not only guarantee food availability for the families but also protect the ecosystems. This emerging trend is important as the country of Zimbabwe is continuing to face grave climate change problems. Women’s inclusion in environmental and climate action is now regarded as a core component of the country’s environmental mitigation efforts
Margrethe II abdicates
After 52 years on the throne, Danish Queen Margrethe II of Denmark abdicated this January; her eldest son, Crown Prince Frederik, became King Frederik X.
War in Ukraine
The war between Ukraine and Russia is still ongoing, with tensions seeming to rise. Ukraine has repossed over fifty-four precent of previously occupied territory. Eighteen percent of the country is still occupied by Russia. Russia has opened up a new front in Kharkiv, but Ukraine has increased drone attacks on Russian ships and strongholds.
Assad’s rule ends
After 13 years of civil war in Syria, Bashar al-Assad was ousted as the country’s leader on Dec. 8. His attempt to repress the uprising against his rule included brutal tactics, most infamously the use of chemical weapons.
The Paris Olympics
Lady Gaga performed on the Seine, Celine Dion returned atop a glittering Eiffel Tower, and the GOAT--Simone Biles--again challenged the world to redefine what’s possible as the French capital hosted the world for the Summer Olympics and Paralympics. Los Angeles has much to live up to in 2028!
Super Bowl/Parade Shooting
The 2024 Super Bowl LVIII on Feb. 11 ended with the Kansas City Chiefs beating the San Francisco 49ers. This victory secured them with a second-straight Super Bowl title, and a rematch from four years earlier. Following the superbowl, Chiefs fans celebrated their historic win in a parade, gathering an estimated 1 million people to Downtown Kansas City. This parade ended tragically with a mass shooting killing one woman and injuring 39 people.
McConnell Replaced as Senate Leader
After 17 years as the Republican Senate leader for the United States, Mitch McConnell decided to step down from his roles in the government and retire. McConnell was the longest serving Senate leader in history, retiring at the age of 82. McConnell was replaced as the majority leader by Senator John Thune of North Dakota.
Caitlin Clark
Caitlin Clark is Time Magazine’s 2024 Athlete of the Year. As a first-timer in the WNBA, she led the Indiana Fever to the playoffs this year and set the record for most 3-pointers made in a season. The WNBA star has marked a heavy influence on women’s basketball as many people credit her for the 155% increase in viewership since 2023.
Francis Scott Key Bridge
On March 26, The Dali, a Singapore-flagged cargo ship caused the collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore, Maryland. The bridge’s collapse caused the death of 6 workers. Six months later, the bridge’s collapse is an inconvenience to drivers in the Baltimore area, forc-
ing truckers to find alternative, less efficient routes and causing congestion on other main roads.
Sam Bankman Fried
On March 28, Sam Bankman Fried was sentenced to 25 years in prison, three years of supervised release, and ordered to pay $11 billion in forfeiture for his fraudulent crimes. As the former CEO of FTX, he was convicted of stealing $8 billion from his clients.
AT&T Data Breach
On Friday July 12, AT&T disclosed that the phone records of almost all current and former AT&T customers were stolen by hackers in April of 2024. This data breach not only impacted AT&T customers, but also anyone who texted/called them during the time of the breach. The data breach involved AT&T and its failure to properly secure its custom ers through a third-party cloud stor age company. There was controversy amidst the data breach due to AT&T repeatedly denying that the data had not come from its systems.
Abortion
On June 24, 2022, the Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade, abol ishing the federal constitutional stan dard that had permitted the right to abortion. Since then, 13 states have since issued a total abortion ban: Alabama, Arkansas, Idaho, Indiana, Kentucky, Louisiana, and Mississippi, Missouri, Oklahoma, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, and West Virginia.
Solar Eclipse
Beneath the microscope
On Monday, April 8, 2024, a total solar eclipse crossed North America, passing over Mexico, the United States, and Canada. This solar eclipse was especially significant because the path crosses more major population centers than the 2017 eclipse.
Election
The 2024 presidential election between Donald Trump and Kamala Harris came to an end with President Trump winning both the Electoral College and the Popular vote, making him the first republican to win the popular vote in 20 years.
Diddy
P. Diddy (Sean Combs), notorious rapper, producer, and Hollywood star has faced various legal indictments over the years. Various accusations dating back all the way to 1999 have resurfaced, making him a subject of many media headlines and public scrutiny. These legal challenges have dragged both him and many other celebrities involved in his wrongdoings, tarnishing their public reputations.
Those We Lost
Among the legends we lost this year: Alexei Navalny, Joe Lieberman, The Home Depot co-founder Bernard “Bernie” Marcus, music titan Quincy Jones, and One Direction’s Liam Payne.
As 2024 comes to end and the new year unfolds, these events will undoubtedly leave a lasting impression on the nation’s collective memory. Through trials and tribulations, this year is a testament of the power of community throughout the nation.
will begin the night of Dec. 25 and continue on for eight more nights. This Jewish holiday celebrates the resilience of the Jewish people in the face of darkness. When Greek forces destroyed the Jewish temple in Jerusalem, the Maccabees resisted, eventually defeating the Greeks and being forced to begin rebuilding their place of worship. When the fight ended, the Maccabees only had enough oil to last for one night. Remarkably, the oil burned for eight nights, allowing the Jewish people to regain strength and begin rebuilding. This year, it is as important as ever to celebrate this holiday in any capacity. Here are eight crazy ways to spend the nights of Hanukkah. Enjoy!
Make Candles for the Menorah
One fun and crafty way to celebrate Hanukkah is through candle making. You can use different dyes, scents, and even shapes to create unique candles to display and burn on the menorah. This is a great idea for a family activity as each person could create their own candle that represents their personality.
Have a Latke-Making Competition
If you are in a competitive mood, challenge your family members to see who can make the best latke. Look up different recipes and topping ideas, give a time limit, and, most importantly, taste test each creation. Have each person vote, or assign a judge, and award the winner with a fun Hanukkah prize.
Play a Game of Dreidel
This is a great activity to do if you want to include and entertain people of all ages. You can use chocolate gelt as playing tokens. Spin the dreidel, and see what side it lands on. Depending on the Hebrew letter it lands on, the player must either take or give a piece of gelt to the pot. This game is easy, fun, and also teaches Hebrew in an unconventional way.
Have a Pajama Party Movie Night
Get in your comfiest winter-themed pajamas, and grab a blanket for a night of relaxation and lots
kah more calmly and rejuvenating.
Have a Hanukkah Celebration
Invite all of your friends and family over, Jewish or non-Jewish, and let them experience all of the fun Hanukkah has to offer. Decorate with lots of lights, menorahs, and dreidels. You can go around sharing the origins of the holiday, eat lots of custom food, and even have crafts and activities. Serve brisket and latkes, give out gelt, and enjoy hosting a light-filled celebration for the night.
Host Shabbat on the Beach
The third night of Hanukkah also happens to be Shabbat! If you would like to switch locations, this could be a great way to do it. Bring all of your Judaica to the beach and celebrate by the ocean. We live in such a beautiful area, so what way is better to spend Hanukkah then watching a sunset with your toes in the sand?
Have a Gift Exchange
You can make gift-giving even more fun by doing a gift exchange. You can choose names in secret, or do a White Elephant-style exchange. You can pick out gifts for those you love while also having a fun activity to do one night during Hanukkah. Everyone can gather, exchange gifts, and celebrate the holiday as a family. Make One Night a Charity Night
While we are all very fortunate to be able to celebrate the holidays with lots of food and gifts, some in our community are not. During Hanukkah, you could donate holiday foods to food pantries, cook a holiday meal for the homeless, or donate toys and gifts to charities. This is a great way to give back during this time of year while also teaching the importance of helping the community around you.
These are just a few ways to celebrate Hanukkah in fun and active ways. Have fun enjoying this holiday with friends and family, and celebrate in any way that feels right for you!
Congratulations to Sophomore Mili Mohante; she presented “Utilizing Deep Learning Approaches to Design Novel Ferroptosis
Editorial
Students should be allowed to vote on faculty matters
What makes you feel valued in a community? Is it knowing others make decisions with your best interests in mind, or is it actually getting a voice and opinion in important matters? Every year administrators, faculty, teachers, and even parents make crucial decisions that impact students’ daily lives, but usually, they are missing the student viewpoint in these determinations.
It has become a norm for schoolwide rules and regulations to be made without a student vote or discussion. But, is this fair? These changes can impact a student’s learning, view of the school community, and level of happiness. Schools spend hours determining how to properly spend a yearly budget and how to develop a curriculum but do not ask those directly impacted by these choices: the students.
Student voting on school-wide issues would not only allow them to control more aspects of their lives but also would educate them on informative decision-making and smart choices. Many high school students are approaching the age to vote, so why not allow them to test this future privilege out on a much smaller scale? Voting on personal and direct matters can allow students to see how certain votes can lead to consequences or unintended changes. Overall, students being allowed to vote in school matters can make them more educated and experienced citizens in the future.
Granting students the ability to vote in matters that would usually only be discussed by faculty also allows for a more accurate representation of what is best for students and the school community as a whole. Many curriculum, grading, and preparation decisions are made based on parental requests or supposed needs, but it can be hard to determine what students would truly deem useful without asking them. If students were more involved in the decision-making process on campus, they would most likely be more involved in initiatives as they would want to participate and see their changes being executed. This would lead to higher school morale as well as better representation of student needs.
Also, allowing students’ voices to be heard would lead to
less confusion and anger over any controversial decisions. If a change is made, in part because of the student-body opinion, the students will have to accept the outcomes of that change as it was due to not only the administration but their peers as well. This not only eases tension over difficult changes but also takes some pressure off faculty to sugar-coat new policies.
While this idea may seem entirely outlandish and difficult to achieve, it is already being put to use in many high schools around the country. Many schools have allowed student-elected representatives on boards and committees that focus on larger schoolwide problems, normally only discussed by faculty. Some may say that students do not have the critical decision-making skills needed to think about something as important as their education. Others may say that students would make the easier decision instead of the most beneficial one. These viewpoints are completely invalid. We live in a world where students are forced to make more decisions and take on more responsibility than ever. Many of these teenagers juggle tough classes with clubs, sports, jobs, and social lives. This makes students extremely ready to handle difficult tasks and think ideas through, no matter the topic.
While it may be less complicated for faculty and parents to make rules, explain them to students, and enforce them on campus, it is not effective system in existence. Students need to become used to voting on controversial issues, determine what is actually best for them, and live with the consequences of enacting the wrong policies. All of these objectives could be achieved by allowing students to have a voice and vote on schoolwide matters. In general, voting should be done by students and for students.
*This editorial is the opinion of The Pharcyde and is therefore not attributed to one singular person.
Opinion: Give voice to character, not grades
By Haley Roth Editor-in-Chief
The awarding of the titles of Valedictorian and Salutatorian has been a time-honored traditions for many high school seniors. These awards are supposed to represent the top two students in the senior class with the highest GPAs. In addition to the award, the Valedictorian gets to make a schoolwide address at graduation, which is considered one of the largest honors. While this tradition does have many values and benefits, it has become outdated and difficult to organize. In a high school atmosphere that is uber-competitive and full of diversity, it is time to refresh and modernize the norms that have characterized the responsibilities of these top students.
In their first years, the honors of Valedictorian and Salutatorian were only given to two students, not based on anything but merit and GPA numbers. In today’s climate, there seem to be more and more ties for these titles, making them seem more mundane and less extraordinary. This is unfortunate as these titles should be reserved for the undeniable best students of the senior class.
It is unrealistic to eliminate these awards altogether, but they could be changed to be more effective and meaningful. Yes, these titles can still be given out, but they should not war-
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OPINION
The opinion articles in this paper are the opinion of the writer or the majority opinion of The Pharcyde Editorial Board. They are not the opinion of The Benjamin School or our advertisers.
just as thouroughly. Also, allowing the student body to choose their final representative allows for all students’ voices to be heard in a tradition that usually only allows room for one point of view.
This different type of selection could also lead to a trend of students celebrating other classmates’ strengths and could unify the senior class. When students truly are involved in the selection process, they learn how to celebrate others successes and recognize other’s high school experiences. A democratic election would not only lead to much more peer recognition but also would lead to less controversy over who is truly the “smartest” or most “successful” student. Instead, all students would agree on someone who represents all of the strengths of the graduating class.
While it is most certainly important to recognize the Valedictorian and Salutatorian for their excellent efforts in the classroom, it is equally as important to showcase all of the different meanings of success and hard work throughout all of the aspects of highschool. More than academics, the individual ventures and hobbies of senior classes are what make them unique. This uniqueness could be shown by allowing the senior class to nominate their own speaker for graduation, making the experience much more meaningful and celebratory of the grade as a whole.
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Last years Valedictorian, Zach Neidoff, was not only a top scholar but also a leader in the Finance Club, Boys’ Varisty Soccer Team, BTV, and other non-academic ventures. (Photo by Jeremy Ferris)
Have yourself a very merry Wik-mas
Mr. Graham Wik
Guest Writer
The Christmas of my freshman year was the first that I attended midnight mass. Given a candle while departing the church, I remember clearly the literal and spiritual glow that warmed me against the sharpness of the cold New England night air.
It snowed on Christmas night my sophomore year. I took a long walk with our new puppy - a black lab colored starkly against the still falling snow. Her name was Rosemary United - (yes Maddox, my fandom pre-dated the treble). That year I discovered the most beautiful Christmas sound - that of snow-muffled silence.
I cannot recall a thing about my
my leg during the first game of the season, my cast came off. Also, my braces were removed after a long thirty month ordeal. And, I was deferred from my EA college - Christmas break was soon to be a college essay blitz.
Perhaps I could have chosen to speak about these transitions, and with some skill and agility try to relate my experiences to what many seniors may be feeling right now - and if I was effective, help calm those who are overwhelmed. I do not, however, possess that skill and agility.
More relevant to the purpose of this address, I found while wandering through my Christmas memories that none of my core memories (Quick shout out to Angie, Riley, Victoria,
It is not that people are not in my memories.
I adored my mother’s father, the WWII pilot who flew with “Yosarrian.” There is not a prank we pulled or a story he told that I cannot describe in minute detail. And yet, none from Christmas.
My father’s mother was a saint who could relax me like no other as she scratched my head (and a full head of thick brown hair that bleached blond in the summer it was) with her long nails. I do not see her at Christmas either.
Dominant in most of my childhood memories is my father. Saturday morning trips to the dump. Sunday morning breakfasts at the diner. Biking and fishing on the Cape. Seasons of playing catch trying to straighten my errant throws - so successful to sufficiently lead to innings of getting shelled with my flattest of flat fastballs. Round after round of golf. There really still is nothing better than walking down the fairway after both my dad and I have crushed our drives down the middle. (For us, if I recall correctly, it happened on the second hole at Captains when I was 19.) When it comes to Christmas memories, however, my father, along with my mother and sister, are absent.
I don’t know why this is. Perhaps it is because the tastes and smells that so many of you adore are a detriment to me and my limited diet. Perhaps it is because being unable to advocate for myself and articulate my desires, I rarely received what I wanted. Perhaps it is not because of what happened as a child but rather that Christmas got difficult after my parents divorced (when I was 25) and my sister and I had to perform a balancing act to satisfy each of their now separate desires. Perhaps it was
a result of my decade abroad when, although I spent Christmases in some amazing places such as Hong Kong, Istanbul, Melbourne, Bangkok, Varanasi in India, Osaka, and Seoul, I was mostly alone. Perhaps I lost track of home.
Over the past week, I have thought about this. The time I normally spend in my head has been amplified over the past weeks as I wonder about these Christmas memories. What I have discovered is that I am ok with this. Although my mental make-up may be the reason for my peculiar memories, they do not subtract from the future.
I am lucky that at a later stage in my life, I fell in love not once, but twice. First with my wife, Minjeong, and then with my son, Hanul - a remarkable surprise who could be considered a Christmas gift - born on December 28th. Those of you that have shared a classroom with me have seen my glow when I speak of him. You might guess that, in my eyes, he stands starkly against any background. I am never too busy for
him, and he changes too fast for me to keep up.
Given my memory situation, I do not try to quote “create memories” for him, although my human grasp for immortality does hope that he will remember me. I plan to, borrowing from the microeconomic lexicon, “maximize moments.”
Ask me when I return from Massachusetts in January how my Christmas was, and I should be able to tell you about how much Hanul enjoyed cutting down and trimming the Christmas tree with his grandmother, my mother, making cookies with his aunt, my sister Sara…how he loved his gifts, especially digging into his stocking, new robots (thanks Benjineers), strategy games, and legos. And, if I am lucky…and it snows…I will tell you about the walk he and I took with Minjeong in that midnight snow...where the Christmas silence emphasized that what truly mattered was not the future memory of that moment, but that moment itself. Merry Christmas.
Ms. Gasparini discovers the magic of the holidays: Hope
When Dr. Haley first asked me to be a part of the Holiday Assembly and share a Christmas memory, I knew almost right away what I wanted to say. And yet, as the days went by, I found myself becoming more and more scared of actually saying it. This happens to me quite often. When presented with the opportunity to speak from the heart, finding the words is easy, but finding the courage to do so is such a struggle. And so forgive me if my voice shakes a little.
Today I’d like to tell you not only about my favorite Christmas memory, but also about my favorite Christmas story, and how they relate to one another. I’ll try to keep it short.
My favorite Christmas memory
of what
is and what it is supposed to mean.
isn’t perhaps so much of a memory - as in…it isn’t a specific moment in time - but rather more of a feeling. Or a thought. Or a belief.
To me, what makes Christmas the most beautiful time of year, is the fact that it exists in the realm of childhood. Christmas is magic, but magic exists only in the heart of children, because children haven’t seen enough of the world yet to know how dark it truly is, and so they just believe.
When I was a child, knowing as little as I did about darkness, I believed that somewhere in the universe there was a secret magic that made all bad things go away, even if just for a day. And I called that secret magic Christmas.
When I was a child, I believed that for one day of the year, nothing bad could happen. Wars couldn’t be
fought, children couldn’t go hungry, people couldn’t die, hearts couldn’t be broken.
That’s incredibly naive, isn’t it? Silly even. That childish hope in a hopeless world. That innocent belief in the unbelievable and the impossible.
And yet, how hopeless is it really? And is there truly anything impossible in this endless universe?
My favorite Christmas story is a true story. It’s a story about hope in a hopeless world. It’s unbelievable and impossible, and yet, it really did happen.
It’s 1914. World War I is in its first months. In the beginning everyone thought the whole thing would be over quickly and that soldiers would be back home in time for Christmas. But war is never that kind.
It’s now December, and British and German soldiers are across from each other in no man’s land. They have been fighting and killing one another for a long time now, and they’re starting to realize they’re not going home anytime soon. Maybe they’re not going home at all. Hope is fading away.
Then it’s Christmas Eve, and after days and days of only hearing the sounds of guns being fired and lives being lost…suddenly, you hear singing. That’s all it takes. German soldiers start singing a Christmas song. And before you know it, everyone’s singing. German and British. They stop fighting, even if just for a moment. They meet in the middle and they sing and shake hands and exchange gifts. They tell stories, they bury their dead together, they play football.
I mean it’s ridiculous, isn’t it? Unbelievable. And quite possibly the most beautiful thing that ever happened in this world. Kindness in the middle of war.
How often did that happen in history? Not often at all. But something only needs happen once for it to become undeniable proof that it can happen. That’s called hope. It’s the secret magic of the universe.
And so maybe children aren’t that silly, are they? Maybe there’s something to it. To the childish hope in a hopeless world. To the innocent belief in the unbelievable and the impossible. Maybe the darkness isn’t absolute. Maybe this world really can be a better place.
And so that’s my favorite Christmas memory. The childish/naive belief that somewhere in the universe there is a secret magic that makes all bad things go away. And although I don’t call that Christmas anymore, Christmas is still the time that helps me remember it.
As we grow up, as we grow old, there are certain things about childhood we shouldn’t leave behind. This is one of them. Hope. Thank you.
Ms. Marina Gasparini Guest Writer
Ms. Marina Gasparini spent most of her childhood in Brazil with her siblings. She focused on telling a story from her childhood as part of her speech. She also shared her ideas
Christmas
(Photo courtesy of Marina Gasparini)
Known for wearing elaborate costumes for the holidays, Homecoming, and special occasions, Ms. Gasparini often donned Santa-red as a child, trying hard to capture the magic of hope. (Photo courtesy of Marina Gasparini)
Hanul Wik greets a traditional Father Christmas figure in this holiday-themed photograph. (Courtesy of Mr. Wik)
Though his facial expression above might suggest Scrooge, Mr. Wik was more Bob Cratchit in his messaging during the annual holiday assembly. His reflection was filled with hope and good cheer. (Photo by Jeremy Ferris)
The man behind the mascot changes every year; this year the secret has gotten out, it is senior Tucker Smith. He is spirited and loves to help bring the school's energy up. Tucker is more than just a mascot though, he is also a magician, a singer, an actor, and the school’s news anchor on BTV.
For Smith, the mascot is more than just a costume, it is a symbol of school pride and unity. He was given the mascot costume after Micah Griffith graduated this past year. Ever since, has donned the jumbo head and swashed his foam sword at every home football game.
“I love being the mascot, it is so fun dancing and taking photos with people. I feel so spirited in the costume,” said Smith.
Walking around on Friday Night Lights, you can see the mascot running around and cheering with the students; the luckiest of us know it's Tucker hyping everyone up.
Magicians can make the ordinary into the extraordinary. Smith also has another secret that got out his freshman year, Smith loves his card tricks. He uses skill, creativity, and a simple deck of cards to surprise all around him. During freshman year, Tucker always had a deck of cards on him and if someone asked to see a trick, he would show you, but you could not ask how he did it or he would tell you magicians do not tell their secrets.
“I learned magic for fun, then once people found out I could do it, it was just a cool trick I do whenever someone asks,” says Smith.
The goal is to leave people speechless and clueless on how that trick works, and it works everytime.
Music is a part of everyone's life, Smith finds happiness in music while he performs. He is the lead singer in a band called Pyramid Scheme with a few other members. The band spends hours in garages and each other houses, perfecting their performance.
Smith said, “I love performing, making the music, and being able to hang out with my friends while doing the thing I love to do.”
But Smith shares his talents with musical theatre as well. This spring, he will play Hades in Benjamin’s production of Hadestown. Never having participated in a school production, Smith is eager to see the workings of putting on a show.
Director Jason Peck said, “Tucker as Hades is basically a match made in the underworld. He brings this larger-than-life charisma and gravitas that makes you believe he could actually run an entire kingdom (even if it’s one
1. The Buc Stops Here; 2. Buc Hunt; 3. Buc Buc GOOSE!; 4. Bed Buc; 5. Buc-ket; 6. Buc on a Truck
Isabella Anthon Staff Writer
No one mourns the wicked, except for moviegoers at the end of Jon Chu’s new film, Wicked Stephen Sondheim wrote Wicked, a prequel to the classic children’s book, The Wizard of Oz, to tell the story of the misunderstood Wicked Witch of the West. It premiered on Broadway in 2003 and has since traveled to theatres across the United States and the world.
Split into two parts, the first half of the film adaptation came out at the end of November. COVID-19 as well as the SAGA strike, postponed its production and release.
Wicked was released on November 22, and the film has already made over $524 million in the box office. The movie is two hours and forty minutes long, and includes the music and scences from the original Broadway play.
Focusing on two witches who form an unlikely friendship at school, this movie is filled with emotion and relatable scenes. Elphaba is a witch
who is misunderstood and mistreated because of green skin. Glinda is a pink-obsessed witch who is very popualr. When the two go to meet the Wizard of Oz, their relationship begins to change as their lives become extremely different.
The movie as a whole was incredible. Director Jon Chu insisted on building the majority of the sets, like the Shiz University campus and the Emerald City. The camera pans through a field of flowers in one scene. In reality, 9 million tulips were planted to make the colors come to life. This furthers Chu’s goal not to use too much CGI.
The casting of Sondheim’s characters was widely criticized in the media, especially Cynthia Erivo’s portrayal of Elphaba. In multiple interviews, she has said that the criticism fueled her to understand Elphaba’s misunderstood nature. Erivo brought the character to life with her sass and kindness. The almost EGOT winning actress utilized her powerful vocals to express these feelings.
Countless actresses and singers auditioned for the role Kristen Che-
noweth made famous. Glinda the Good Witch. Not many expected Ariana Grande, a pop star sensation, to land the role. Like Erivo, dove right in, even dying her hair blonde to not spend any budget on wigs. Her quirkiness and oblivious humor emit a pink aura of every shade. Critics have praised her ability to honor Glinda’s legacy while still making it her own.
On top of Grande and Erivo’s truly emotional performances, all of their singing was done live. No recording studio, no lip-syncing, no voice doubles. They sang every note on camera while dancing to some of the most complex choreography musical films have ever seen.
“I thought it was really good, especially the sets, and I loved that they cast real singers like Ariana Grande. “Defying Gravity” was my favorite song by far,” said freshman Emma Sizemore.
Extraordinary, brilliant, and downright showstopping: all the best words to describe the cinematic sensation that is Wicked in the best way possible.
“There’s no place like home” ~L. Frank Baum, The Wizard of Oz
“Maybe the definition of home is the place where you are never forgiven, so you may always belong there, bound by guilt. And maybe the cost of belonging is worth it”
~Gregory Maguire, Wicked: The Life and Times of the Wicked Witch of the West
“And of the Witch? In the life of a Witch, there is no after, in the ever after of a Witch, there is no hap pity; in the story of a Witch, there is no afterword. Of that part that is beyond the life story, beyond the story of the life, there is-alas, or perhaps thank mercy-no telling”
~Gregory Maguire, Wicked: The Life and Times of the Wicked Witch of the West
“No one mourns the Wicked”
~Stephen Schwartz, Wicked: The Untold Story of the Witches of Oz
Food Review: Christmas Cookie Brownies
Stella Liberman Staff Writer
The holiday season is synonymous with delicious desserts, and one standout treat that combines indulgence and festivity is the Christmas Cookie Brownie. This layered dessert has a combination of cookie dough, Oreos, and brownie mix baked into a single masterpiece. Using ingredients such as Pillsbury cookie dough, Pillsbury brownie mix, and classic Oreos, this dessert offers a balance of flavors and textures that makes it an instant favorite at any holiday gathering.
Christmas Cookie Brownies are a seasonal take on the popular layered dessert known for its rich, indulgent flavors. The base is a layer of cookie dough, topped with a layer of Oreos, and finished with gooey brownie batter. The Christmas variation often includes holiday-themed additions, such as red and green sprinkles, peppermint-flavored Oreos, or a dusting of crushed candy canes to enhance its festive look.
chocolatey flavor, while the top layer of brownies is rich, fudgy, and gooey. Together, these elements create a harmonious blend that is both satisfying and festive.
Christmas Cookie Brownies are highly versatile and can be customized to suit different preferences. For a peppermint twist, seasonal Oreos or crushed candy canes can be incorporated. Drizzling white or dark chocolate over the top adds another layer of flavor, while using different types of cookies or brownie flavors allows for further experimentation.
This dessert is particularly well-suited for holiday gatherings and potlucks, as its rich appearance and layered structure make it a visually appealing centerpiece. Its combination of universally loved ingredients—cookies, brownies, and Oreos—ensures that it is a crowd-pleaser.
Preparing Christmas Cookie Brownies is straightforward and requires minimal effort, making it an excellent choice for novice and experienced bakers alike. The process begins with pressing a layer of cookie dough into the base of a baking dish, followed by arranging a single layer of Oreos on top. Finally, the brownie batter is poured over the cookies, creating the final layer. For a holiday-inspired twist, festive sprinkles or other seasonal decorations can be added before baking.
The combination of flavors and textures is what makes this dessert truly memorable. The cookie dough base becomes soft and chewy during baking, providing a buttery foundation for the layers. The Oreo middle layer adds a satisfying crunch and
Christmas Cookie Brownies are a perfect addition to the holiday dessert table. Their ease of preparation, festive appearance, and indulgent flavor make them a standout choice for celebrations. Whether served at a party or shared as a thoughtful homemade gift, these brownies are sure to bring joy to anyone who tries them.
This dessert captures the spirit of the holidays with its playful layers and irresistible taste, making it a must-bake treat for the season.
This new movie featured Ariana Grande as Glinda and Cynthia Erivo as Elphaba. (Photo courtesy of Universal Pictures)
These brownies are the perfect holiday treat as they combine cookie dough, Oreos, and brownies into a decadent and over-the-top dessert. (Photo courtesy of Insanely Good Recipes)
Peace, happiness, bliss, grace: A life lived from the inside out
Chase Zur Associate Editor
Ms. Lei deng Cohen, or Laoshi as her students call her, lives by a powerful motto: “Live Inside Out.” For her, this phrase encapsulates the essence of finding peace and fulfillment by taking care of the self first.
“When we are comfortable with ourselves, we are comfortable with the world,” she said. It’s a lesson she not only embodies but shares with her students, encouraging them to strive for self-awareness and harmony.
Her life is a testament to this motto. Born during China’s revolutionary years, Ms. Cohen grew up in a small mountain town with her parents, two siblings, and a single room they all shared. Her childhood was marked by simplicity. “We had two sets of clothing for many years,” she recalls. Despite these difficulties, the mountains became a sanctuary for her. Her mother took her there to read which helped spur her love for nature.
In 2005, Ms. Cohen immigrated to the United States, a transition that proved to be deeply challenging. “You can imagine, uprooted from one culture and immersed in a totally different one,” she says. I was not happy.”
It wasn’t until she discovered yoga two years later that her life began to transform. “Yoga saved my life,” she reveals. From her first teacher training, she realized that yoga could help her overcome her
a life-transformational journey she shares, one that led her to pursue ad vanced certifications in yoga, medita tion, and mindfulness.
Her yoga mat, a seemingly sim ple possession, is her most treasured. “It’s my sanctuary,” she says. Each morning, she begins her day with yoga and a sunrise walk, moments she describes as peaceful and harmo nious. “That’s when my heart, soul, and mind are in one piece,” she says. Through these practices, she has learned to embrace gratitude and better control her emotions. She es pecially noticed the growth she had achieved when she observed some one in a fit of anger. “I thought to myself, I used to be this angry. Now I can witness it, send compassion, and be grateful for the transformation yoga brought me,” she recalls.
For Ms. Cohen, her greatest loves are her two daughters, Laurie and Sabrina. They have shaped her into a more patient, giving, and gentle per son. She speaks fondly of a moment with Sabrina, who at just six years old, offered wisdom beyond her years. Af ter the passing of Ms. Cohen’s sister, a loss she calls her “lowest depth of misery,” Sabrina comforted her by saying, “Look at the sky, look at the earth. Your sister is there.” That pro found insight helped ease her grief and reminded her of the importance of finding strength in loss.
This connection to her family in fluences the way she approaches her
“When you work on yourself to reach your ‘ideal self,’ that’s the greatest achievement,” she says. Her ultimate goal, however, remains tied to her family and where she grew up. She dreams of living in the mountains, splitting her time between China and the United States, reading and meditating in nature, just as she did as a child.
Ms. Cohen’s story is one of resilience and of the pursuit of harmony and peace. Through her journey, she hopes to inspire her students to live authentically, from the inside out.
Seasonal work: a jolly good pine
doors and staying active during the holiday season,” says Natasha. “I thought working with Christmas trees would feel like a workout, similar to lifting weights at the gym, and it sounded like a unique way to get into the holiday spirit while earning some money.” She also values the connection with customers and coworkers.
“It’s fun to interact with customers who are excited about getting their Christmas trees. It’s rewarding to know I’m part of their holiday traditions. All of my coworkers are very nice, and I enjoy working with them.”
Stella Liberman Staff Writer
For many, the holiday season is about joy, traditions, and family, and for Natasha Yedinak and Evan Sluiters, working at a tree farm is the perfect way to immerse themselves in the festive spirit while earning some money. Both share a love for staying active, interacting with people, and being part of a community that helps families make memories during the holidays.
“I chose to work at the tree farm because I love the idea of being out-
For Evan, avoiding monotony was a big motivator. “I chose to work at the Christmas tree farm for many reasons. One of them being that I really didn’t want a boring job,” he says. “I have many friends who work retail, and they tell me every day how much they hate it. I don’t mind doing manual labor if it means not having to stand in the same position doing the exact same thing for six hours.”
Evan also appreciates the lively interactions that come with the job. “At the Christmas tree farm, everyone who comes in is always in a great mood for obvious reasons. I seldom encounter anyone who shows up an-
gry when buying a tree for Christmas. Trying to sell yourself as a person and convince someone to buy something can also be fun. It helps me learn how to socialize with every type of person, which I know I’ll benefit from later. And because most of the money I earn is from tips, I actually have an incentive to work harder and be extra nice.”
Both Natasha and Evan agree that the festive atmosphere, happy customers, and camaraderie with coworkers make the job enjoyable and rewarding. Natasha loves “seeing families light up when they find the perfect tree,” while Evan appreciates the challenge and personal growth that come from engaging with different people. Together, their experiences highlight how working at a tree farm is much more than just a seasonal job—it’s a unique way to celebrate the holidays, stay active, and be part of something meaningful.
While working at a Christmas tree farm may be an unconventional job, it is most certainly rewarding during the holiday season. It allows for an active and interactive job that is sure to put all in a festive mood.
rolling in after that,” says senior Sam Scarola. Reaching out to people is the first and hardest step. Starting a business is not just about the profit you can make, it is also about the experience you can gain, lessons learned, and achieving your goals.
“I wanted to start a business to make money, while doing something I am interested in; being my own business makes it extra enjoyable,” says Scarola.
Making it your own business means you get to make the decisions and be the boss. “I love being my own boss and being able to do what I want, it gives me the freedom I want and making money,” says Scarola.
ing with him,” says senior, Matthew Pfaff.
Having a great personality makes you a fun person to be around. Making so many memories with friends, “One of my favorite memories with Sam was when I started my DJ activity and he was always there to help and listen to my music,” says Pfaff. Being known inside and outside of school is great with having connections and making memories. Senior, Sam Scarola is a great business man, student and friend around the community. “I just like doing what I do, and living up my last year at Benjamin,” says Scarola.
Ms. Cohen aims for the heavens-- and for Zen--as she meditates by the lake one afternoon.
(Photo courtesy of Ms. Cohen)
Ms. Cohen regularly attends retreats for mindfulness, spirituality, and yoga. Such experiences allow her to connect better with her self and her students, as she brings back new techniques and ideas for use in her classes and at assemblies.
(Photo courtesy of Ms. Cohen)
Junior Evan Sluiters, pictured here with his father and younger brother, is seasonally employed at a Christmas tree farm. His hard work helps ensure families have a memorable holiday season.
(Photo courtesy of Evan Sluiters)
Senior Sam Scarola’s car detailing business has been a success, financially and personally, providing him with boundless opportunities for growth and reflection. (Photo courtesy of Sam Scarola)
In 1996, the Menendez brothers were convicted of killing their parents, and sentenced to life in prison without parole. The show chronicles their literal trials and tribulations while attempting to reason with the jury. The show debuted at #1 on Netflix’s top TV programs and exposed a new generation to the highly debated trial’s verdict.
Released to theaters on October 18, 2024, Smile 2 brought a chilling and horrifying film to the screen. As global pop sensation Skye Riley prepares for a world tour, she begins experiencing terrifying and inexplicable events that threaten to unravel her life.
Overwhelmed by the escalating horrors and the pressures of fame, Skye must confront her dark past to regain control before everything spirals out of control. The film has grossed 138 million dollars worldwide.
Written by Freida McFadden, author of The Housemaid and both New York Times and USA Today best-selling author, The Teacher focuses on a happy wife and teacher named Eve who is set on discovering the real secret about the student-teacher affair that happened at her high school, Caseman High. This novel is sure to offer extreme secrets, plot twists, and revenge schemes.
2024 in review...
Streaming, movies, and books
A chilling story, Baby Reindeer is a television adaptation of a one-man show. Donny Dunn meets a woman named Martha while working in a bar. She quickly develops an unhealthy obsession with him and goes to extreme lengths to be close to him.
It Ends With Us captivated viewers with its portrayal of love and difficult choices. Based on Colleen Hoover’s bestselling novel, the film follows Lily Bloom, played by Blake Lively, as she navigates a tumultuous relationship and learns to prioritize her own happiness. Despite mixed reviews, It Ends With Us has grossed 80 million dollars making it a box office hit.
Funny Story is a novel written by New York Times bestselling author Emily Henry. It came out in April of 2024. This romance novel follows a librarian, Daphne, and her childhood friend, Miles who move in together after their exes decide to get married. What starts as a scheme to make their exes jealous quickly turns into a love story.
The long-awaited fourth season of Outer Banks arrived in October. The Pogues have just returned from El Dorado, where they found the riches they longed for. But in true Pouge fashion, they spend the majority of their cash within weeks. The six travel as far as Morocco on their latest quest. Season 5 was announced shortly after this season’s release.
In Despicable Me 4, Gru reunites with his old enemy, Maxime Le Mal who seeks revenge and plans to turn humans into cockroach hybrids. After Maxime escapes from prison, Gru and his family are forced to relocate and assume new identities in a small town, where Gru becomes entangled with a teenage villainess named Poppy. In the end, Gru saves his son from Maxime’s evil plans, and the family returns home safely. Released on July 3, 2024, the film grossed $361 million in the United States and Canada.
The God of The Woods is a novel written by Liz Moore set in the Adirondacks. When a teenager vanishes from their cabin at summer camp in 1975, two worlds collide. Barbara Van Laar is the daughter of the owners of the camp, and the second Van Laar child to go missing. This novel follows the search for Barabara and the uncovering of the Van Laar dynasty’s secrets.
The FX historical drama follows an English sailor named Blackthorne who trains to become a samurai after shipwrecking in Japan. The show distinctly features mainly Japanese dialogue. The story was originally written as a novel in 1975 by James Clavell. Critics list Shogun as a top contender for the upcoming award season.
Earning a 74% rating on RottenTomatoes.com, Deadpool & Wolverine, follows Wade Wilson (Ryan Reynolds), aka Deadpool, as he teams up with Wolverine (Hugh Jackman) from another universe to stop a powerful villain, Cassandra Nova, and prevent the destruction of multiple timelines. The film became the highest-grossing R-Rated film ever bringing in over 1 billion dollars just twenty three days after its release on July 26, 2024.
Published in February by St. Martin’s Press, The Women, written by Kristin Hannah, tells the story of a young nurse who goes to the Vietnam War to serve in the United States Army Nurse Corps. This powerful novel discusses the theme of heroic women and a divided America.
The four-time Emmy award-winning sitcom returned for its fourth season, and it did not disappoint. The show follows the daily lives of teachers at Abott Elementary, an underfunded school in Philadelphia. With laughs and some tears, the teachers dedicate themselves to bettering the days of the children they teach.
Inside Out 2 has made history as the highest-grossing animated film all time globally, with a stunning 1.46 billion worldwide. Released on June 14, 2024, the film opened to an impressive 154.2 million domestically. Bringing audiences back into the mind of a teenage Riley, the sequel explores her emotional journey through adolescence, introducing new emotions along the way.
First Lie Wins is a thriller and mystery novel written by Ashley Elston in January. Receiving four stars on goodreads.com, this book follows Evie Porter, a con artist, recently assigned to trick a small community into thinking she is in love with Ryan Sumner. Everything comes crashing to a halt when a different woman shows up using Porter’s real identity. Porter must find a way to escape her past without ruining her future.
Auditions Wrap Up for Spring Musical, “Hadestown: Teen Edition”
Haley Roth Editor-in-Chief
As the end of the first semester approaches, the Benjamin TheatreCompany has begun to host auditions for their yearly spring musical, Hadestown: Teen Edition. General auditions for the musical occurred on Tuesday, December 3 and callbacks were the next day. This year’s musical blends vocals, dancing, and acting to retell a popular story from Greek mythology.
This year’s musical showcases elaborate storytelling through the arts, as it focuses on the ancient Greek myth of Hades and Persephone.
Mr. Jason Peck, Upper School Drama Teacher, gives a brief overview of what to expect from this year’s musical, “This show offers a powerful retelling of the ancient myths of Orpheus and Eurydice, and Hades and Persephone, through a blend of soulful music and poignant storytelling. Its themes of love, sacrifice, and resilience resonate with audiences of all ages. Hadestown invites us to reflect on our choices and
the courage it takes to hope in the face of adversity. Our production will aim to capture the spirit of this narrative, immersing performers and audiences alike in the magic of its world.”
Ms. Marina Gasparini, Upper School teacher, explains a bit more about what the plotline is actually based on, “It’s from a famous Greek myth about Orpheus and Eurydice and they’re in love. She ends up in Hades, basically, she dies, and he goes to the underworld to bring her back.”
After two days of auditions and lots of practice from the potential cast, the cast list was posted on Friday. The following Benjamin students received roles: freshman Harrison Poulakakos as Hermes, senior David Frear as Orpheus, senior Sage Sorenson as Eurydice, senior Liv Caiazzo as Persephone, senior Tucker Smith as Hades, senior Isabella Giovanni, sophomore Ava Shawe, and freshman Ilia Peck as Fates, senior Rebekkah Merkel as the “We Raise Our Cups” soloist, and freshman Michael Alvarez, sophomore Katelyn Webster, sophomore Grace Bischoff, junior
Moana 2 Sets Sail On
Chase Zur Associate Editor
On Wednesday November 26, Disney’s Moana 2 premiered, bringing audiences an exciting new chapter in Moana’s story. At 1 hour and 40 minutes, the sequel builds on the adventurous spirit of the original, following Moana’s mission to reunite her ancestors’ scattered islands. With beautiful animations, memorable music, and new characters, Moana 2 is a fantastic movie for all ages.
The film opens with Moana (Auli’l Cravalho) blowing a conch shell in hopes of finding others beyond her island. When she discovers there are people beyond Montuni, she becomes determined to find them. Moana shares her discovery with her father (Temuera Morrison), proving others are out there. With her little sister Simea (Khaleesi Lambert-Tsuda), she visits the ancestral site where her grandmother once revealed their heritage.
Moana is quickly honored with the title of Toltai during a feast. However, a lightning storm disrupts the ceremony, and Moana has a vision of the original Toltai warning her that isolation must end. Moana realizes she must find the ancient island of Motofetū, cursed long ago by the power-hungry god, Nalo. Inspired, she rallies her people with a heartfelt speech, assembles a crew, and sets sail.
As Moana begins her journey, the focus shifts to Maui (Dwayne Johnson) who is trapped in a web spun by the bat-like goddess, Mantangi (Awhimai Fraser). Back on Moana’s ship, her crew struggles to work together but ultimately unites after facing initial challenges. A strong current pushes them into Cocomora territory, where they are captured, but soon discover the coconuts just want to return home. They surge forward with the Cocomora, but are swal-
Liam Duffy, junior Caroline Fuller, faculty member Marina Gasparini, eighth grader Cici Hansen, eighth grader Alex Harris, senior Rebekkah Merkel, senior Victoria Powell, junior Alyssa Saraqui, senior Riley Weinberger, and senior Mike Winfield as the Workers Ensemble.
According to Ms. Gasparini, this year’s auditions were promising, “Auditions went really well. We had some people who were very prepared. They all did their best and tried very hard.”
“I was personally very nervous for auditions but I think they went very well. The first thing we did was the dancing portion of the audition, which I did well in, so my confidence was up for the singing part. I am not the best singer so I didn’t expect to get a big role, so for callbacks, I just took it as practice for the musical instead of an actual callback. Overall I think it was much easier and less stressful than I expected,” said senior Victoria Powell.
The audition process for the musical is relatively similar from year to year, testing students’ abilities to
Another Epic Journey
lowed by a massive clam.
Moana becomes separated from her crew and encounters Matangi, who demands that she and Maui defeat Nalo. Nalo has trapped Mantangi in the clam and by breaking the curse on Motofetū, she would be freed. With Matangi’s help, Moana, Maui, and the crew escape together. The crew presses on into Nalo’s treacherous waters, battling monsters that damage their canoe. Moana feels hopeless, but after a much needed pep talk from Maui, she rallies her crew to keep fighting. Together, they lure Nalo into a trap so Maui can raise the island. However, he is injured in the process with his tattoos fading away.s
When all hope seems lost, Moana discovers another way and dives into the ocean, touching the island. Nalo immediately strikes Moana with a lightning bolt. Maui, although powerless without his tattoos, dives in to save her. He calls upon past chiefs who unite to bring Moana back to life. Revived, Moana receives a magic tattoo and oar just like Maui’s hook. Maui’s powers are restored for his bravery and selflessness.
Together, Maui and Moana finally raise the island, breaking the curse. After the island is raised, Moana blows her conch shell, unites the islands, and welcomes the scattered groups across the ocean to come together at last. The movie ends on a positive note signaling that this is only the beginning for Moana’s people.
The music truly captures the heart and soul of the story, with standout songs like “Who We’re Meant to Be” and “What Lies Beyond.” These songs are not only catchy but also cleverly written, allowing the audience to truly see the characters’ thoughts and emotions. Maui’s new song brings humor and depth to his character, offering a playful yet heart-
felt moment, though it doesn’t quite reach the iconic status of You’re Welcome.
Similarly, the animation elevates the storytelling with vibrant, breathtaking visuals that transport audiences into Moana’s world. From the rich, tropical landscapes to the beautiful movements of the ocean, every scene is perfectly idyllic.
The new crew members in Moana 2 are equally engaging, each bringing unique traits to the journey. Loto (Rose Matafeo), the team’s architect, brings strategic thinking, Moni (Hualalai Chung), the Maui superfan and historian adds a deep connection to Moana’s heritage, and Kele (David Fane), the elder statesman and farmer manages the food for their trip. Together, they provide a dynamic group that supports Moana’s journey and enhances the movie.
Earning 66 million dollars at the global box office, these opening day numbers for Moana 2 have been extremely successful and already place the film as the third most for an animated film, just behind Incredibles 2 and Inside Out 2.
Zur’s Star Rating
“I give Moana 2 four and a half stars because it builds on the charm and adventure of the original while introducing fresh elements that make it even more exciting. The new characters are well-developed, the animation is breathtaking, and the music, while not quite as iconic as some of the first film’s hits, is still catchy and cleverly written.”
sing, dance, act, and perform. It requires memorizing, practicing, and lots of hard work.
“Mr. Peck makes an audition packet. He puts the songs they should work on depending on the role they want and also includes scenes to work on. He gives them a calendar of events. We have two days of auditions,” shared Ms. Gasparini. “For plays, it’s usually only one day, but for musicals, we have two days. We do auditions for acting, singing, and dancing. Mrs. Salivar is in charge of dance auditions and we did singing auditions on the same day. On the second day, we called students back to roles we thought they would be good for and they sang together to see how their voices blended. We did a couple of scenes as well.”
Now that auditions have ended, the Theater cast and crew are focused on perfecting the musical. All those involved are looking forward to various aspects of the preparation process.
“I’m looking forward to hearing everyone sing because the songs and melodies are so beautiful. I can’t wait
to see them bring the songs to life,” expressed Ms. Gasparini.
The Spring Musical seems to be going well so far as auditions and casting are completed. Students, be sure to go support your classmates and watch this piece of art. Also, think about auditioning for next year’s Fall Play or Spring Musical!
Winter Music Festival Brings the Holiday Spirit to Benjamin Hall
Haley Roth Editor-in-Chief
On Friday, Dec. 6, the Benjamin School hosted its annual Winter Music Festival in Benjamin Hall. This festival highlighted Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, and other holiday songs. This performance is one of the highlights of the winter season in the Benjamin community. The Winter Music Festival most certainly got the audience in the mood for a festive and celebratory holiday season.
This year’s performance showcased a variety of students from all of the Benjamin campuses. From the Middle School, the Middle School Band, Honor Band, and String Ensemble performed. The Upper School Concert Band and Chamber Ensemble also played a few pieces. All of the faculty involved in the Band and Performing Arts departments also pitched in to make sure this year’s festival went off without a hitch.
The Winter Music Festival combined traditional and more modern holiday songs into a blend of beautiful symphonies and sounds. Each group played a medley of songs for the audience, including a mashup of popular Christmas songs. All of the performers perfected and blended their pieces beautifully, leading to a very successful concert.
Member of the Upper School Concert Band, Sebastian Scaperotto, shares what he played, “I performed with the band and we played All I Want for Christmas Is You by Mariah Carey and Frosty the Snowman.”
“I played two pieces. There was a Hanukkah piece and two Christmas pieces,” explained junior James Tepper.
The students were not the only ones to perform at this festival, Benjamin teachers also showed their musical talents through solos throughout the evening.
One of the highlights of the evening was a performance by Upper School Science Teacher, Mr. Abigail
mance. He dazzled the crowd with his musical control and ability to play beautifully.
This act was one of the crowd favorites of the night, “My favorite part was watching Mr. Milce perform on the saxophone. He is so talented and everything he plays always sounds amazing,” exclaimed Scaperotto.
This performance had many moving parts as lots of students performed in various groups and songs. It took lots of planning and preparation to ensure the night was successful. The Winter Music Festival may have been difficult to organize, but in the end, all went well.
“I think the performance went really well. We all worked really hard to prepare for it and so it was great to see it pay off as the audience really seemed to enjoy it,” shared Scaperotto.
Mr. Milce also had positive things to say about the show. “The show was very nice. Everybody who participated did a wonderful job. I think it was a well-planned event too.”
Overall, the Winter Music Festival was a wonderful showcase of all of the musical talent that exists at the Benjamin School. Students and faculty alike performed wonderful holiday pieces and showed their expertise on the violin, saxophone, clarinet, and so much more. This event was the perfect opening to the holiday season as well as a preview of the pieces played
Pictured above is the poster for “Hadestown: Teen Edition,” which brings Greek mythology to life with music and storytelling. (Photo by Broadway World)
The Upper School Concert Band and String Ensemble filled Benjamin Hall with holiday music at the Winter Music Festival. (Photo by Haley Roth)
The Moana 2 movie poster shows Moana at the forefront poised for adventure with Maui by her side.
Youth, passion drive girls’ soccer team towards its season goal
By Caroline Yohe Staff Writer
The Benjamin girl’s soccer season is always an exciting time, bringing talented athletes, dedicated coaches, and enthusiastic fans to the Theofilos Field. This year, the girls have delivered a great start to the sea son, showcasing their hard work and team camaraderie.
The girls team is led by Hillary Carney, a dedicated and accom plished coach. She has experience in coaching both high school and colle giate level sports teams. Her instruc tion and commitment to the Ben jamin girls’ soccer team is evident as the team credits her for much of their success. Sophomore Ella Egizio shares her experience, “Coach Hil lary has been amazing, and although sometimes we do not get our desired result in a game, she is always there to help us so we can improve for the next. The team is really lucky to have her.”
The team displays a great variety of students, showcasing the skill of new freshmen and veteran seniors. Freshman Reese Goodwin shares her experience so far, “Everyone on the team is super nice and always willing to help and motivate us. We had our first win against Newman this week and I’m looking forward to seeing what this season holds.” This blend of new talent and seasoned leadership adds a special team dynamic. Noteworthy players such as Kenna Kujawa, shares how the upperclassmen have worked to include underclassmen into the team, “It has been so nice to welcome the new younger
To do so we often eat together before games and we offer to drive the younger players a ride if they need it.” In addition, Senior Natasha Yedinak commented, “Bringing the freshmen onto the team has been a really cool experience. I know it can be kind of scary to join a team with older players, so I try to make them feel comfortable right away.”
A major aspect of the team’s accomplishments thas been their strong sense of community and teamwork. Whether a win or loss, the girls support each other on and off the field.
Ella Egizio adds, “The team has grown really close together and it is such a great environment to be in. We are a very tight knit team and it’s great to have these people by my side.” There is a clear sense of positive and uplifting spirits throughout the team.
the team is working on, “The team lacks scoring players and someone who wants to go up and be selfish. We are practicing a lot of shooting and our team-talks are based around improving in that area.” This season brings an emergence of new talent, community, and hard work which will ultimately lead to a successful season for the team. Whether they make it far or not, they have pushed themselves to become better players, better teammates, and all-around better people.
In conclusion, the Benjamin girls’ soccer team has shown immense growth and improvement so far in this season. With the blend of talented freshmen and experienced upperclassmen, the team provides a diverse group of athletes. Regardless of the season’s final outcome, the team’s spirit, camaraderie, and de-
Wrestlers hit the mats in
By Reid Waxman Associate Editor
Wrestling gets less attention than other sports, but that does not mean it is less exciting. With more wrestlers than ever this year, the team feels confident that it has a chance to win more than in years past.
“The future looks bright for Benjamin wrestling, but we will suffer some growing pains throughout the year. The team has strong leadership to guide the youth. We are led by Captains Sawyer Lefevre and David Frear. We also have two high-level freshmen, Johnny Lago and Nick German, leading the way during practice,” head coach Fred German explained.
Not only does the team have high expectations because of the leadership, but the team also has put great
effort into preparing for the season individually. Although other kids play different sports, wrestling was one of my main sports for senior Sawyer LeFevre.
“We don’t really condition as a team in the offseason. I know that some kids play other sports. For example, I play football in the off season and in the spring I work on robotics so I’m always busy,” LeFevre said. “In the summer somtimes there are camps that we will go to as a team like this summer we went to a camp in Orlando with some of the top college wrestling coaches around including Army and Missouri which was really cool and fascinating.”
With much of this year’s squad hitting the mats as novices, it has fallen to the veterans to offer direction and mentorship.
“As the captains we make sure
Nothing but net
By Reid Waxman Associate Editor
The boys’ soccer season is off to a hot start by kicking off with a 9-1-1 start, as of Dec. 18. The team hopes to advance as far as possible into the postseason as the season continues due to their raised chemistry and tal-
To prepare for the season, the team held captains’ practices before the season could officially get underway with Head Coach Kris Steeves. Players have found those practices to
“These practices were important not only for us to get better but also for us to bond more and create a chemistry that we always have every year. I feel that we have a great chemistry this year, and our success will build upon that,” said senior and captain Maddox Hoffman.
The boy’s schedule was filled with crucial games in the first half. Their first game was a significant momentum shift with an essential win versus Dwyer Panthers 3-2 on Nov. 4th. Two games later, they played the Boca Raton Bobcats on Nov. 11 and won 1-0. On Dec. 3rd, they played the Oxbridge Thunderwolves and won 4-0.
Improvement from the prior season is always something that every team seeks to do. In this case, that happened with the Bucs. Not only did the team’s talent increase, but the chemistry did as well.
“We grew as a team significantly. On and off the field, we are strong. We try for almost every weekend to do team bonding off the field, so it helps us on the field,” Ford Cash explained.
According to maxpreps.com, the boys are ranked 75th in the nation and 42nd in the state.
Coach Steeves is in his fifth year with the team and has grown connections with the players. He has high expectations for the boys this season.
“I have come a long way in the past four years. With a red-hot start from the boys, we can be the best team in the state. I see it during practice and off the field. The boys are a family, and I think that is one of the biggest traits to a successful squad,” Steeves stated.
For freshman player Auggie Dalton, the team’s success has much to do with the positive leadership being displayed by many of the upperclassmen.
“They guide practices well and can lead the team to victory in our games. They do a great job of controlling our mindsets and attitudes while also showing great skills on the field,” Dalton exclaimed. “Maddox Hoffman, in particular, is a great leader off the field and cares about us freshmen and sophomores and about us getting better.”
As Steeves has high expectations for the team, so do some players. James Carpenter believes the sky is the limit.
“I think we can go far in the playoffs. We have had a hot start, and our chemistry is clicking. If we continue this going into the second half of the season, states is in sight for us,” Carpenter noted.
Ultimately, what will bring the Bucs to reach their goal of making regionals is the team’s biggest strength, which, according to Carpenter, is their desire. After the break, the Bucs’ next game will be at the Treasure Coast Titans on Jan. 7th.
eveyone is focused and doing the right moves the right way. We have to be the ones who are strong enough to continue forward no matter how tired; that’s part of the reason David and I have some of the best records this season. We have been on the team for long enough to know how to lead and be tough,” LeFevre said.
Often during the winter, wrestling gets overshadowed by sports such as soccer and basketball, which leads to many wrestlers believing their sport deserves more attention than it gets.
As the team is better than ever, Coach German decided to make the schedule harder than ever to make the team prepared for district, regional, and state finals. The team is making sure that if they get there, they will be ready to win it all.
“Wrestling needs to be appreciated more. The 1v1 battles that wrestling is shows more resilience. It isn’t as much as a team sport as lacrosse or soccer is, because when you are out there on the mat, it is you versus the opponent,” Leferve explained.
The girls’ varsity soccer team poses for a picture. “We have such a great team this year. I am having so much fun with all of my friends on the team. As we aren’t doing as well as we wanted to, I feel like we can turn it around in the second half of the season,” junior Kenna Kujawa said.
(Photo from @tbsgirlssoccer instagram)
Senior Maddox Hoffman celebrates after their first goal in the game on Dec. 13th against American Heritage. They went on to win this game 4-2.
(Photo courtesy of Maddox Hoffman)
Junior Iris Hoffman passes the ball on an attacking chance. “I am having so much fun playing soccer this year,” she said, (Photo courtesy of Kenna Kujawa)
Senior Sawyer LeFevre cheers after a win against the Dwyer Panthers last season.
(Photos by Sawyer LeFevre)
A t h l e t i c s
By Reid Waxman
Associate Editor
As 2024 draws to a close, it’s time to reflect on the sports world’s highlights, surprises, and unforgettable moments. This year, from the gridiron to the ice, offered plenty of excitement to various sports fans.
College Football:
The 2024 college football season was defined by similarity as new contenders emerged to challenge the traditional powerhouses. On Jan. 8th, the Michigan Wolverines defeated the Washington Huskies in the title game to claim their first national championship since 1997. It was a battle of powerhouse programs, with Michigan relying on its relentless rushing attack and deep defense to outlast a dynamic Huskies offense led by star quarterback Michael Penix Jr. The Wolverines controlled the game’s tempo with a dominant performance from their offensive line, creating lanes for their running backs to exploit.
NFL:
The 2024 NFL season lived up to its reputation as a spectacle of athleticism and drama. On Feb. 11th, the Kansas City Chiefs, led by Patrick Mahomes, continued their dominance, clinching yet another AFC Championship. However, the surprising resurgence of the San Francisco 49ers stole headlines. The Super Bowl was a nail-bit-
er, showcasing incredible defense and high-octane offense, with the San Francisco 49ers narrowly falling to the Chiefs 25-22.
College Basketball:
In 2024, March Madness lived up to its name as upsets and buzzer-beaters highlighted the tournament. On Apr. 8th, The Connecticut Huskies men’s team secured their sixth national title, defeating the Kansas Jayhawks in a tightly contested final. From the regular season to the beginning of April, the South Carolina Gamecocks continued their dominance on the women’s side. Both tournaments showcased the incredible depth and talent across the NCAA, leaving fans eagerly anticipating the 2025 season.
NBA:
On Jun. 17th, The NBA saw a resurgence of one of its most storied franchises as the Boston Celtics claimed the 2024 NBA Championship. Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown led the way, delivering clutch performances throughout the playoffs. The Celtics defeated the Dallas Mavericks in the Finals, ending Luka Doncic’s quest for his first title. Tatum’s standout play earned him the Finals MVP, and the victory marked Boston’s 18th championship, breaking a tie with the Lakers for the most in NBA history.
NHL:
The 2024 NHL season ended on
June 24th, with the Florida Panthers defeating the Edmonton Oilers to win the Stanley Cup. Matthew Tk achuk and Aleksander Barkov led the Panthers with stellar performances throughout the playoffs. The Finals showcased skill and determination, with the Panthers prevailing in a hard-fought series to secure their first championship in franchise history. Connor McDavid and the Oilers fought vigorously, but Florida’s depth and resilience proved decisive.
MLB:
The 2024 MLB season culminated in a classic World Series matchup between two iconic franchises: the Los Angeles Dodgers and the New York Yankees.
On Oct. 30th, the Dodgers emerged victorious, capturing the championship in a thrilling seven-game series. Mookie Betts and Freddie Freeman delivered clutch performances, earning Freeman the World Series MVP. The victory marked the Dodgers’ first title since 2020 and solidified their place as one of baseball’s premier organizations. From unforgettable championships to unexpected underdog stories, 2024 was a remarkable year in sports. As the calendar turns to 2025, fans can only hope for another year filled with moments that capture the aura of competition.
Boys hope to rebound from rough start
By Reid Waxman Associate Editor
The boys’ varsity basketball team is off to a rough start with a 0-6 record as of Dec. 11th.
Despite a rough 9-14 season last year, the boy’s expectations are higher than last season’s .391 win percentage. Coach Brandon Arnette believes that the team is just getting started.
“Many people think our rough start will just tear our team down. I believe this rough start is bringing our team together more because we are learning from our mistakes and striving to improve as the season goes,” Arnette explained. “We have a positive attitude, and I know that the people on our team can do their part to lead.”
The top three scorers that Arnette was referring to were sophomore Logan Buchanan (15.3 points per game), Drew Buchannan (10.8 points per game), and Johnny Havlicek (9.0 points per game).
In the first five games, the Bucs averaged 55.2 points per game while their opponents averaged 65 points, making it almost an 11-point differential.
“Our past six games were pretty difficult. We fought till the end on every single one, and they were
just playing like the better team,” Havlicek stated. “If we can keep on doing what we do, work hard, and have a cool composure, I don’t see a world where we don’t get to .500.”
The team learns from all of the losses from each of them, but they learned from one in particular.
“Our loss against [Cardinal] Newman was tough because we played well the entire game. We were moving the ball all over the court nicely, and we had good chemistry throughout the game,” Logan Buchannan said. “We were not shooting well, and we were playing lazy defense. That game gives us many things to focus on in practice.”
Arnette believes that the team can improve rapidly with hard work and exemplary leadership.
“I want us to get better every day,” he said. “If we improve daily, our district will be very competitive. Although we have a young team, we have tremendous leadership from Drew [Buchannan] and Johnny [Havlicek].”
As he is the only senior on this team, Drew Buchannan, the team captain, has accepted the leadership role and has done his best to set an example for the underclassmen.
“I have tried to become a leader by being the first one in and the last
one out of the gym daily,” he said. “I am naturally a really talkative person, which helps my status as a leader. I help coach with picking up balls after practice.”
Players have noticed a large difference from last season, especially with the intensity of practices.
“I have seen more energy in practice this year. Every loss we have, the harder we work in practice,” junior Stephen Cecil explained.
Out of all of the games, Logan Buchannan is looking forward to one game in particular.
“I am curious to see how we play against St. Andrews. We struggled with chemistry and passing abilities last year against the Scots, which is our strong suit this year,” Logan Buchanan said. “They’ve gotten a lot better, but I feel like we can pull off a big upset.
Last year, the boys lost against the Scots 82-47. They play them at home on Jan. 7th.
“If we work hard during the break, I think we can go on a hot streak in the second half of the season,” Drew Buchanan said.
When the boys return from break, they face off against the Pine Crest Panthers on Jan. 6th at home.
Staff Writer
Skill, teamwork, and determination are a few words to describe the girls’ basketball team. The game of basketball helps the girls develop their leadership skills. “Our captains help us in practice and on the court, explaining what we should do to be successful,” says sophomore CJ Smith.
The girls use their strength and communication skills to work on the court and gain points for each other to attempt to win games.
“Our team is very good at communication, we bond a lot out of school and hang out before games,” says junior Marlee Schwab. Before the games, the girls get ready together and drive with each other to get food. Hanging out on and off the court, helps the girls bond and get to know each other, “I love our drives before games to get food and I love the bus rides to the games. We all talk and laugh with each other, and they are my favorite memories,” says Smith.
The team’s strengths are athletic ability, communication skills, and mindset. They excel by practicing every day and practicing different strategies to use in games, “I think our best strategy is defense, we work on it a lot in practice by using drills,” says Schwab.
Defense is a key component of the game, using offense helps by scoring points, but defending the team from scoring points on us is the main way of winning. Communicating with your teammates and having trust in them to make plays and create opportunities for each other is how the team works well.
“Hanging out with my teammates has created great chemistry with each other, to be able to trust each other has helped the dynamic of our team,” says Smith.
Having goals in a sport is motivation to achieve and work hard. “Our team’s goal was to win a game, we have a harder schedule this year, so I am hoping it happens,” says Schwab. On Friday, Dec. 6th, the team won their first game of the season. The girls played Forest Hill and beat them with a score of 50-20.
Every basketball team faces challenges to test their ability to adapt and how they will respond to the challenges. From dealing with a younger team and injuries, the team has to navigate and adjust to new players on the court to succeed.
“One of my main challenges this season was my injury, I got concussed earlier in the season and it is not my first concussion. As a captain on the team, it was hard to be unable to help my teammates on the court,” says Schwab.
Being an injured player is difficult, watching your team knowing you can not help them is very difficult, but it’s all worth it once you are better. Girls’ basketball is a sport of determination, hard work, and growth. The girls’ basketball team shows all of these characteristics, and by continuing their season they will keep growing together and as a team. The team’s last regular season game is on January 30, until then the team will continue to improve their skill. “I am excited to see how this season goes, we have grown so much already and we have so much time to grow still,” says Schwab
The varsity bowling team bid goodbye to the eight seniors on whom its hopes were pinned this year during their senior night earlier this fall. Slipping on their bowling shoes for the last time under Coach Steve Blount were Drew Buchanan,
With so many departures, underclass bowlers are encouraged to spend time this off-season at the alley, working to turn those spares into turkeys, those gutterballs into strikes!
The girls’ starting lineup (CJ Smith, Marlee Schwab, Maddie Amorosino, Kenzie Bunting, and Angelina Townsend) smiles for a picture. (Photo by Erika Sousa)
Seamus Rooney, Avi Gulati, Vaibhav Kartik, Matthew Pfaff, Rachael Rotter, Maddy Fullerton, and John Lacey.
