Heralding the Unsung Story by Domenica Perrone Who is the unsung hero of the CHS Class of 2010? Who are the graduating seniors who have done random acts of kindness, been courageous in the face of adversity or simply made a difference by just being who they are? Clifton Merchant Magazine asked me to talk to my classmates and ask them to identify these heroes. At CHS, one can easily look to the diversity found in the hallways. By diversity, I not only mean different races, but also students with varied interests, ambitions, and lifestyles. What we found among the nearly 700 seniors is that there are many heroes who walk the halls and there are many reasons for their selections. Senior Class President Ariel De Leon nominated Robert Klinger. “He ran for City Council, he works hard and is president of the Wisdom and Knowledge Club,” said De Leon. Volunteers are plenty, too: Carolina Rodriguez and Trisha Torley noted Francesca Kareivis while Karym Gadea said Melissa Smith should be mentioned for all the time she helps out at the animal shelter. George Grosz said Paul Herlbut is a real hard worker and June Student of the Month Saagar Bulsara (who will be profiled next month due to space constraints) said Priya Shah should be recognized for all the work she did on the yearbook and as a class leader. The kindness of Vania Masilang was cited by Anahi Gonzalez. Kelsey Wojdyla nominated Marching Mustang Sorab Kochhar, who also works hard in school and is also a kind and caring person. The inner strength of Olivia Pipala is recognized by Randy Porga. “She has her own unique personality and doesn’t give into peer pressure,” he said. Jose Olivera nominated Chris Alfonso—the only person who has not picked on Jose in high school. Brionne Ramsingh remembered Kimberley Rozborski, his best friend who died of leukemia last year. Jake Wilson said Cassandra Porter should be recognized for her work with cancer charities, remembering her little brother David who died of cancer in 2006. Salutatorian Jake Wilson doesn’t receive enough credit for his hard work on everything from student council to the plays, said Emily Urciuoli. Andrea Villanova and Robert Klingler nominated Emily Urciuoli: “Not for athletics or academics, but for mod16
June 2010 • Clifton Merchant
esty, volunteer work, determination, and kindness.” Chris Morales cited Edwardo Gonzales as a kind, strong kid who works very hard and is a good person. Brianna Stemmler nominated Mustang hurler Alex Lesch as “the only person to never do her wrong... plus he helps her with math homework.” Zac North sent a shout out to Randy Porga: “He made it to graduation.” Elisa Woo suggested Natalia Callejas who tutors, is helpful with her family and is a selfless person. Natalia Callejas looks up to Jefferson Fingueroa: “Although he appears big and tough, he never picks on others, defends those being picked on, is helpful, works hard to help his mother. Plus he is a great brother, good student and a reliable and respectful individual.” Naji Nelson is motivated by Tyler Best who works hard at the Boys & Girls Club and is a good friend. Joe Seider said Ariel De Leon is the type of person who has never been angry with anyone, is a strong leader, and “he passed chemistry.” Julio Rivera likes the independent spirit of Cynthia Szablowski who works hard to achieve her goals. Domenica Perrone (above) was May’s Student of the Month