Newspaper: October 2017 by The Voyager

Volume L

First Edition

October 2017

Eastern Regional High School

1401 Laurel Oak Road

Voorhees, NJ 08043

Project Graduation Party moves to Kroc Center Eastern Welcomes the Venerable Ratana. Page 2

The Kroc Center was created through a $59 million combined capital and endowment grant from a bequest to The Salvation Army by the late Mrs. Joan Kroc, widow of McDonald’s founder Ray Kroc. Photo by Alex Mackle ‘18

Tara Tobin in Fashion Week Spotlight. Page 7

New Teacher Spotlights. Page 10 & 11

Eastern Girls Tennis. Page 20

By ALEX MACKLE ‘18 Editor-in-Chief

stablished in 1993, Project Graduation has been a staple of the Eastern experience. On the night of graduation, outgoing seniors are invited to return to the school, from where they are bussed off to a massive graduation party. The whole idea is to provide a safe, drug- and alcohol-free environment where graduates can spend one last night together as a class. In years past, the event had been held at Dave and Buster’s in Philadelphia, and at the Funplex in Mount Laurel for the past two years. All of this changed when the Board of Education moved up the date of graduation from Tuesday June 19 to Friday June 15. As a result, Project Graduation was forced to change the booking to June 15, graduation day. At this point, an issue arose — the Funplex already had another school renting their facilities the night of June 15. Now, there were two options: Project Graduation could either retain its previous date, or the Project Graduation Committee would have to find a new location, quickly. The committee ultimately elected to take the latter route. After weeks of searching, the committee reached out to the Ray and Joan Kroc Center in Camden, a community center operated by the Salvation Army. “Mr. Tull recommended the Kroc Center,” said Michelle Bonomo, President of the Parent Committee for Project Graduation, “We had our swim meets there a few years ago.” The Kroc Center was opened three years ago, with much of its funding coming

Members of the Project Graduation Committee meet with reps from the Kroc Center in Camden, New Jersey. Photo by Alex Mackle ‘18 from the estate of Joan Kroc, the wife of Ray Kroc, the founder of the McDonald’s Corporation. The location features a great deal of amenities that the Project Graduation party plans on utilizing. One area is a black box theatre or “dark room.” When surveying the venue, a number of different LED infused games were proposed to be based in this locations. Two other rooms will mark a first for Project Graduation: swimming. The Kroc Center contains two separate swimming areas. One is a half-olympic-sized pool, and the other is a more recreational swimming area. This portion encompasses a jacuzzis, water slides, and a lazy river that flows around the entire area. Unlike at the Funplex, where seniors were not allowed to use the swimming facilities, the Kroc

Center will allow for seniors to change in order to swim. Elsewhere, the Kroc center has a rock climbing area that attendees will be able to take advantage of, in addition to outdoor basketball court facilities. Weather permitting, the attendees will be able to play freely on these fenced-in courts. Back inside, Project Graduation will also be taking over the full-sized gymnasium at the Kroc Center. Here, in addition to sporting general gym-style activities, the organization will be bringing in a number of different inflatable items, like slides and other air-filled structures to be employed by participants. Like the Funplex and Dave and Busters, The Kroc Center will be providing con-

Continued on page 3

Check out the voyager-online.org for additional coverage!

2 The Voyager

News

October 2017

Culinary room gets a complete makeover By CRYSTAL OSUJI ‘18 Entertainment Editor

ulinary, a beloved class that freshmen cannot wait to take senior year, over the summer received a complete new makeover: 16 new kitchens all equipped with two microwaves, either a gas or electric stove and two sinks. The culinary room was first built in 1965. The room has had the same layout since the 50s and the school board decided it needed a change. Discussions of a brand new culinary room began around the Fall of 2015. It wasn’t until December 2016 the project was out to public bid. Mrs. Samaha has been the culinary teacher for three and a half years and two years ago the school board told her that remodeling the kitchen was in the budget. However, she was still surprised with how much they got done. “I didn’t expect the school would spend the money on this… this is a really nice gift,” said Mrs. Samaha. The budget for the culinary room was $693,750; also included in the budget was the lighting project in the PAC where new energy efficient LED house lights were installed. “This was a part of our overall efforts to reduce our energy use,” said Diana Schiraldi, the School Business Administrator and Board Secretary. Almost everything in the culinary room is brand new. Along with the new stoves, sinks, and microwaves; the room also has ventilation above each stove. This will help prevent the room from constantly smoking up, which will reduce the unnoticed fire drills. The only things

Kylie Easterday prepares something that didn’t need to be replaced is the refrigerator, and the washer and dryer. The culinary room used to be two rooms: a classroom and the kitchens. But now, the wall separating the two rooms has been teared down making it one. However, Mrs. Samaha misses this feature. “I’m most worried about not seeing an accident or a fire,” said Mrs. Samaha.

tasty in the upgraded room. This year, Mrs. Samaha has a goal to have zero fires because she usually has to put out one fire a year. This is why she misses having a small kitchen because it would be easier for her to put it out. Although with the fear of kitchen fires being evident, it will not stop this year’s extensive list of recipes the class will make. “Every year I try new things, this year we are doing the food for the fashion

Photo by Crystal Osuji ‘18

show, a gingerbread competition… it’s changing all the time,” said Mrs. Samaha. Not only is Mrs. Samaha excited about culinary this year, so the students. “I’ve always been interested in cooking and baking. Culinary gives me the opportunity to learn the specifics,” said senior Jannette Fisher.

Eastern welcomes the Venerable Ratana By NANCY BOWNE ‘19 Copy Editor

fter much thought, The Venerable Ratana decided. His favorite class is photography. He’s not sure why he likes photography. He just enjoys it. The Venerable Ratana, as he wishes to be addressed, is a Buddhist monk from Cambodia. He has been in the temple since he was nine years old. Now, instead of living in his hometown, the capital city Phnom Penh, he has been sponsored to come to the United States as part of the Voorhees Temple to spread his beliefs of mindfulness and wisdom. The Venerable Ratana sits quietly. He is tall, with dark, brown eyes. He has a nice, tentative smile, but during the interview his face warms into genuine peace. His eyes penetrate to those whom he speaks to with a curiosity to their lifestyle. As he knows, it differs from his vocation. He seems nervous, as this interview (along with the student translator, Voyager staffer Cynthia Meas, who speaks Khmer) has taken some time to arrange. Venerable Ratana does not speak English and finds difficulty in some translation. Venerable Ratana has lived in the United States for four months. His English has already improved. “It has been hard,” he said. “I understand when people speak English, but I cannot speak back all the time.” He has used Google translate and sometimes his sponsor is able to translate over telephone The Venerable Ratana is not new, though, when it comes to learning a new language. As a Buddhist Monk, he must learn a language in the main holy book, Bali. “The ordinary people cannot read the Bali,” he said, “and so it is up to the Monks to teach and translate.” The book is not composed in Khmer, and so the language is hard to learn. Bud-

dhism originates from India so the previous monks speak in the original tongue. The Venerable Ratana further explained that when Buddha died, in 483 BCE, his disciples spread his beliefs to other countries, “publishing the Buddha elsewhere, moving to Cambodia.” These Buddhist Temples are similar, but every region has a different culture, size, and custom. The Venerable Ratana explains that in the temple there are schools that explain to people about religion and about having good morals. He didn’t have any family support when he joined the Temple, but he has found comfort in his teachers. He says he will be here hopefully for the whole year. His sponsor is applying for a green card for him so he can stay longer. He has enjoyed the United States. The Venerable Ratana is one of seven Monks brought to Voorhees and Camden from Cambodia. Eastern is definitely a change from his usual routine. When he is not at Eastern, he lives at his Temple in Voorhees. He can only eat between 6 am to 12 pm, but can drink water any time of the day. As a monk, he also cannot marry and have a family. He also cannot smoke, drink alcohol, gamble, or wear jewelry. As we are about to leave, he dismisses himself to reorganize his rust clay robes. His ESL teacher, Mrs. Walton-Mills, comments on how he usually does this a couple times a day. The Venerable Ratana shared some of his beliefs as parting words in that, as a student body, we should not speak offensively and lie. We shouldn’t ask for anything in our own desire. “If it is a gift,” he said, “then that’s fine.” Throughout the interview, the Venerable Ratana, Cynthia Meas, and I were eager to understand each other. It can be frustrating to exist in an unknown atmosphere. Communication is a variable that is hard to handle, on top of learning the material

The Venerable Ratana smiles at his interview with the Voyager.

Photo by Nancy Bowne ‘19

at school. It is in moments like this where we are taken out of our usual climate of religion or culture, or even our language, and it can really change our daily lives.

However, the Venerable Ratana feels optimistic. He has made great advancements in his joy and mindfulness. This is all an experience. He’s ready for his calling.

October 2017

News

The Voyager 3

Innovative class advances opportunities in production By ROBERT SUNDSTROM ’18 Staff Reporter

Junior Jordan Edmondson wanted more students to know about the new Music Production and Technology class and how much fun it is. “You may think music is too hard,” he said, “but this class is an easy way to help you unlock your own musical expression.” The class, piloted just last year with only student iPads and five desktop workstations, now operates with fifteen desktop stations and iPads in a repurposed computer lab in room 607. Taught by Ms. Mitchell, the class aims to educate students in music creation and production, as well as provide a more accessible approach to music of the twentyfirst century. Students who do not come from the performance background of a typical musical student are encouraged to participate in this class as a way to express their love for music. Ms. Mitchell said the class allows for students to start from a less intimidating standpoint than performance so that they can create music electronically, but also along the way learn the music theory and ear training behind it. “The idea is that eventually the theory and the practice will come together for these students,” said Ms. Mitchell, who believes the class to be an extremely important tool for ensuring that an entire selection of the student population is not left behind because they may lack the skills of a traditional musician.

The new lab in which Music Technology is taught is also home to two other classes, Guitar and Music Theory. For all three of the classes, though, the new setup and additional technology is beneficial, as it allows students of different abilities to progress at their own speed. “This way, while I’m teaching the class how to play a G on the guitar, I don’t have anyone falling into a coma in the back of the class because they can already play Jimi Hendrix,” said Ms. Mitchell jokingly. Not only do students boast that the class is extremely interesting, and likewise very entertaining, but they also appreciate the career opPhoto by Alex Mackle ‘18 portunities that it helps to Senior Nesta Reale working on his guitar skills. create. don’t get it now, how would you ever ing new interest. “I’m not sure yet if it’s know if music production is for you?” While the class is only in its second year something I want to do, but it’s good to running at this capacity, Ms. Mitchell is know that this class provides an option,” hopeful that as more students learn about said Edmondson. the class, more will take it. Graduates who took the pilot version But the class is not just about creating of the class have gone on to pursue music electronic music. production and technology degrees at uni“There’s so much more to it and so versities such as Temple and Drexel. many different fields within that,” Ms. Mitchell also shared that many of Ms. Mitchell said. “The exposure is her current students who hadn’t previousthe most important because if you ly considered the career are now exhibit-

Check out more online and samples of work at voyager-online.

New advisor for Key Club

By MATTHEW MORANTE ‘18 Staff Reporter

The water slide at the Kroc Center.

Photos by Alex Mackle ’18

Graduation party at Kroc Center CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 tinuous food that will be available to those attending, but unlike the Funplex, The Kroc Center does not provide entertainment in addition to what is already included in their facilities. As with when Project Graduation was located at Dave and Buster’s, a private entertainment company will be brought in as a supplement to the site. Project Graduation is hiring out Party King Entertainment, an entertainment company based out of Fairfield, NJ. The company will be providing the inflatable services, as well as a great deal of other activities around the location. With this added expense, the Project Graduation Committee has been attempting to negotiate the cost of the event down. “The Funplex was $72.95 per child,” said Mrs. Bonomo, “and the Kroc Center is currently $65 each. [The Kroc Center Representatives] are trying to get the price down to $60,” she said.

In order to offset the cost of admission and prevent students from paying more than the initial $10 fee, Project Graduation hosts its major fundraiser, the Eastern High School Craft Show each December. “Each year,” said Bonomo, “we’ve netted over $20,000.” Ultimately, Project Graduation appears to be in order for this school year, despite initial concerns amid schedule changes. “I want people to know that these changes are not related to any issues that may have occurred last year,” Mrs. Bonomo said.

Ms. Stafford, an avid runner in her spare time and an organizer of many charity walks, has taken her love of the community with her to the Head Advisor position of Eastern Regional High School’s Key Club. In the three years that she has been teaching at Eastern, she has had a completely positive experience with the students and staff. Before teaching at Eastern, Ms. Stafford taught at Pennsgrove High School, a rather small school located in Carney’s Point, New Jersey. She was inspired to begin teaching when given an internship at a research lab. The research lab was focused on glaucoma research. “The most fun part of the internship was when high school students were brought into the lab and we were

Photo by Alex Mackle ‘18

able to give them a tour”, she said. Ms. Stafford, after looking at some of the projects, was inspired to advise the club. She believed it would be a great way for her to get more involved in the school. She believes that the most important part of Key Club is the building of character for teenagers and the importance of giving back to the community. Overall, Ms. Stafford is looking forward to an exciting first year advising Key Club.

That Eastern Spark! Mr. Brian McConnell

4 The Voyager

Features

October 2017

Teachers pluck ‘apple’ to control classroom

By RUTHIE DOUGLASS ‘19 News Editor

ith every student in the school now having access to a personal iPad, teachers are beginning to adapt to widespread use of this technology. Using iPads in class has been a long-time goal for the school, and now that that has been achieved, a problem arises: How to keep students on task during class? Students constantly have access to social media, games, etc. on their iPads, and many find it irresistible to wander off of an assignment and check their SnapChat or text back their friends. However, Apple has come up with a possible solution. Teacher Dr. Molotsky is a huge proponent of Apple Classroom and uses it with all of his classes. “I like Apple Classroom a lot,” Dr. Molotsky said. “It’s a great management tool that keeps kids focused on what they’re doing.” Apple Classroom is a program that allows teachers to view the screens of student iPads through an app. A teacher can view a page with small versions of their entire class’s screens, or tap on an individual screen and view a larger version. They also have the power to lock the class into one app, which disables the home button, read what app each student is in, and airplay any student’s screen to an Apple TV. Dr. Molotsky said that with the new Apple update, he can use a monitoring tool to see what apps a student was in and how much time they spent in each at the end of each class time. In addition, the teacher can launch

apps, share documents, reset managed Apple ID’s, and mute audio on student devices. Apple Classroom relies solely on a device’s bluetooth. A student must have their bluetooth on, as well as grant permission in settings, for a teacher to use the program. Because it is such new technology, a student must have the latest update of iOS installed for Classroom to work. If an iPad is connected to Apple Classroom, a blue bar will appear at the top of the screen, so you will always know when your device is subject to view and control. “As technology was introduced and merging, a lot of students felt like they could hide in their iPads rather than being engaged in the class,” said Dr. Molotsky. “I try to use it not as a punishment, but as a reflecting tool.” While teachers may be loving the idea of monitoring a student iPad, students seem to be unsure of their feelings toward it. Junior Katelyn Shinkle said, “I think it’s good for productivity and it helps keep students on task.” “I understand why teachers would use it, but it sucks for the students,” said Luke Magette ‘20. Though a huge step of progress towards technologysafe learning, Apple Classroom is far from perfect. To disable Apple Classroom, a student only has to turn their bluetooth off, and the connection is lost. When a teacher is looking at all of their students’ screens at once, the images are small and blurry, so the teacher is unable to see exactly what a student is doing, unless they choose to view that screen alone.

Artwork by Mei Liu ‘20 “Sometimes it can be invasive if we have free time, but I do see the pros of it, it helps keep people on task,” said Junior Elizabeth Flewelling. “It’s also your own fault if you’re doing something that you’re not supposed to be doing.” Apple Classroom seems to be an application that is changing in-class technology use for the better. However, there are still many more issues to work out with the program, not to mention the questions of privacy and invasion of a student iPad. There are many uncertainties that come with pioneering into new technology, and Apple Classroom is simply one of those uncertainties.

Student Alliance: coming to a study hall near you

The Transition Camp during the summer for the Class of 2021 assembles on the football field. By ALIYAH EL-MUHAMMAD ‘18 Staff Reporter

dvisor Mrs. O’Keefe was excited to share the the statistics of the Student Alliance survey. “Student Alliance is not only about emotional support,” she said, “but the skills it equips freshman with in order to handle the change from middle school to high school.” Student Alliance aims at aiding freshman in their first year of high school. Run by Mrs. Fox, Mrs. O’Keefe, and Mrs. Bunnell-Jackson, they work over the summer and throughout the year to make lesson plans for each bi-monthly freshman studies visit. Upperclassmen serve as role models and give guidance to younger students. According to Mrs. Bunnell-Jackson, a mentor provides valuable information to those in need. Each student mentor is a volunteer who chooses to help the underclassman. Both Mrs. O’Keefe and Mrs. Bunnell-Jackson joined Student Alliance two years ago, and each has brought something unique to the already organized Mrs. Fox. Recently, Student Alliance has added a Freshman Transition Camp. The idea was spearheaded by Mr. Smart, who found inspiration from a similar program in Washington Township, where students come in for three days

and experience activities and explore the school. Some of the activities included a scavenger hunt, iPad deployment and an ice cream social. Student Alliance hosted over 300 freshman during the camp. According to their online surveys, 45% of students gave the camp a 4-star rating. Next year, they hope to have even more students participate in the camp by making the dates later to accommodate students who go on vacation. After freshmen year, students can join Student Alliance and keep mentoring the next incoming class. “If you are interested, please apply. We want active, engaged and enthusiastic members,” Mrs. BunnellJackson said. The organization is built on student participation. Student Alliance continues to grow, especially since last year’s addition of freshman study hall and Freshman Transition Camp. Mentors volunteer not only for the college application boost, but for the experience of mentoring others. Student Alliance Ambassador and Secretary Aziarah Jones is especially proud of the work they do. “It means a lot for me to know that my tips, tricks, and past mistakes can help the freshmen start off high school stronger than I did,” she said. Interested students can contact Mrs. Fox.

Photo supplied by Mrs. Fox

The officers of Student Alliance gather before their banner welcoming freshmen during summer training. Photo supplied

October 2017

Features

The Voyager 5

Photo of the Month

Fabulously Fall Polka dots are in By LAUREN CASOLE ’19 Features Editor

Photo supplied by Lanis

Liz Flewelling, Cat Nguyen, Nancy Bowne, and Olivia Kahn sing “Long Time Travel.”

What to Do in November Bridgeton Hall of Fame All Sports Museum Bridgeton, New Jersey

If you are interested in mosaic art and unique glass passageways, this art garden is sure to be a great event to go to on the weekend to relax and delve into the history of South Street. A one hour tour will take you on a journey through the buildings artwork as well as educate you on the techniques used and the influences that helped to create such visually appeasing life sized pieces. From the outside glass and found objects garden to the inside rooms completely covered in tile and vibrant colors is sure to be time well spent with friends or family. -Gabrielle Gilham ‘18

If you like sports this is the place for you. This museum is full of legends from South Jersey. You can see the gold glove of Hall of Famer Willie Mays, championship memorabilia from the 1980 Phillies World Series, and a bat collection from the Cincinnati Reds. The museum has a large trophy room with many cool trophies. The museum has many cool collections and worth a look for sports fans. - Matt Steinsaltz ‘20

Amazing Escape Room 2050 Springdale Rd Suite 200, Cherry Hill, NJ If you are in the mood to test your intelligence, rattle your nerves, and have fun with family and friends, try the Cherry Hill “Amazing Escape Room”. You and 10-12 people have 60 minutes to escape the room. Each room has a storyline that you’ll be introduced to upon entering, along with basic instructions on what you’ll need to uncover to escape. A “Game Master” will be watching you by camera to help with hints if your group gets stuck at any point. A great way to spend a rainy day. - Tanner Koch ‘19 Flyers Skate Zone 601 Laurel Oak Rd, Voorhees Friday and Saturday nights: 8:00pm - 10:00pm The Flyers Skate Zone has always been a hangout spot for teens. I remember my older sister always asking my parents if she could go over the Skate Zone with her friends. The Flyers Skate Zones offers you to skate on the same ice that the Philadelphia Flyers team practices on. This is a good place to laugh at your friends failures to skate. There is a snack stand as well to get pizza, pretzels, or chips. Spend some coins on some of their arcade games or watch a regular hockey game if it is playing. Just remember, bring a sweatshirt to the Skate Zone since it is always cold. - Josh Meyers ‘21

Johnson’s Corner Farm 133 Church Road, Medford, NJ If you’re looking for a place to go on hayrides, pick pumpkins and apples and more family fun activities then come on down! There are also delicious foods to savor while your there, such as tasty apple cider donuts, a variety of pies and an assortment of steaks and burgers. Weekend specials include fall festival fests, corn mazes, and even live music. For a fun and affordable weekend make your way to Johnson’s Corner Farm where the motto is, “Planting seeds, harvesting memories.” - Olivia Covington ‘20 Batsto Village County Route 542, Washington Township, NJ If your looking to get outside and get some exercise but look around a cute little, old village then head over to Batsto Village. There is tours around a cute, old village with a market and a gift shop and you can walk around the Wharton State park in a nature trail and here you can go hiking, camping and they have lakes to go fishing. It is open from 9am-4pm and volunteering is also available to anyone. - Haley Allsebrook ‘20 Bridgeton Hall of Fame All Sports Museum Bridgeton, New Jersey This museum is full of legends from South Jersey. You can see the gold glove of Hall of Famer Willie Mays, championship memorabilia from the 1980 Phillies World Series, and a bat collection from the Cincinnati Reds. The museum has a large trophy room with many cool trophies. - Matt Steinsaltz ‘20

Artwork by Lisa Traczyk

Philadelphia’s Magic Gardens Tour Saturdays and Sundays at 2PM for guided tours. 020 South Street in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

all is finally upon us. That means it is time to break out all of your favorite fall clothes. After taking a look at the name brand shows of New York Fashion Week, I could see a lot of similar styles and concepts throughout the shows. Over the summer, stripes were the way to go, but as we are changing seasons, we are also changing stripes to polka dots. Trust me, I know what you are thinking! Really, polka dots! *Insert sad face emoji. However, polka pots can be cute, if they do not over run your outfit. Including them in small statement pieces can add a nice touch. “Especially black and white polka dots,” said Mrs. Heyers. Another common theme on the runways was the color silver. It went all the way from basic silver to metallic silver to a glossy silver. Even silver nail polish was an easily identified trend. Mrs. Heyers also said that the 90s have a huge influence on the fall style this year. Plaid shirts are huge again this year and skinny jeans are still around, even though looser fitting jeans are coming back into style. Heyers predicts that looser fitting jeans will be the thing of the future. She said, “ e v e r y o n e is like do we have to throw out our skinny jeans, but it takes a while for another trend to start.” Focusing now on footwear, velvet shoes are replacing our classic suede, leather and canvas shoes. Heyers said that they started as low booties with a block heel, but will migrate to other types of shoes. Some colors include black, cranberry, and blue. “They do say that non traditional winter colors are coming out. You don’t see pink as a winter color, it’s more for spring,” said Heyers. Both pink, electric blue and turquoise are trending now as winter colors. Other honorable mentions that will be high fashion this fall are everyone’s favorite comfy sweaters and workout wear. Folk wear with vibrant colors and patterns is also trending along with menswear for women, unisex clothing and plastic raincoats, shoes and accessories. Denim on denim, multicolored fur, blanket style jackets, graphic prints, galactic/space prints, frayed edges and matrix themed black. Scarf prints, neutral colors, leopard prints and plaid are all staples that are making their way back into this fall’s fashion. Mr. Tull predicts, “sweaters and big shawls” are what he sees this fall. With that remark he is definitely on the right track.

Features

6 The Voyager

October 2017

By RYAN MARGOLIS ‘18 Staff Reporter Tests. Essays. Presentations. Projects. SATs. College. Feeling anxious yet? As students, anxiety is a feeling that most of us are familiar with. From studying for tests to making time for after school activities and sports, it’s hard for us to not feel pressured by our daily routines. I even feel stressed right now as I write this (I waited until the last minute to start). For me, it’s especially easy to feel this weight because I have OCD. You know, that anxiety disorder where people repeatedly wash their hands, or organize their room, or check their locks, etc. Trust me, I can sympathize with your anxiety. A question that’s constantly on my mind is: How can I reduce my stress? I’m sure this is something you think about a lot, too. I recently discussed anxiety with the local licensed psychologist, Krista Kircanski. She received her undergrad and master’s degree at Boston University and her Doctorate in Psychology at Pepperdine University in Los Angeles, California. Kircanski has been working with OCD patients for about five years and about 75% of her caseload involves treatment for anxiety. She sees about five to eight teenagers weekly, and that’s just for OCD. When asked how common anxiety disorders are in teenagers,

U.S. population at any given time. “That means if there are 100 kids in your class, around 20 of them have some sort of anxiety disorder that requires treatment. The numbers are pretty high, but the good news is that anxiety and anxiety disorders are very treatable and we have several

Kircanski said that anxiety disorders are pretty common, affecting around 18% of the

very effective treatments for them,” she said. Kircanski is right; those number are pretty high. I’m sure after reading that, some of you might have had the passing thought, “Maybe I have an anxiety disorder. I can get really anxious sometimes.” At least once or twice before, you’ve probably done something that made you think, “I’m so OCD.” But Kircanski assures that you’re probably not as “OCD” as you think you are. “Someone with OCD experiences a tremendous amount of distress as a result of the disorder,” she said. It may be performing compulsions or rituals for minutes or hours per day. Students may find themselves unable to break the cycle on their own. “Someone who has OCD likely requires treatment by an experienced psychologist,” she said, “because of the distress and interference that OCD causes in their life.” When it comes to anxiety disorders, you’re probably fine. Though, you probably still feel anxious every now and then. So, what can you do to deal with that stress? Kircanski had four pieces of advice on how teenagers can reduce their anxiety: 1. Try to reduce stressors as much as possible, or balance out a busy workload/extracurricular activities schedule with more relaxing, enjoyable things that make you happy. Go, go, go all the time is not sustainable forever. 2. Use your social support system (e.g., family, friends, co-workers, teachers) for help when you are feeling stressed or overwhelmed. Everyone in the world has felt anxious at one time or another, so asking others for advice can be a really helpful option. 3. Remember that worrying is not a substitute for problem solving. Worrying doesn’t really solve problems, sometimes it just makes them worse or keeps us from acting on things we really need to do to solve the problem we are having. 4. Don’t be afraid or embarrassed to ask for help. If you are having significant anxiety that you feel is interfering in your life, ask to see a psychologist. We are really nice and want to help you solve your difficulties as quickly as possible!”

By Lisa Traczyk ‘19

An SOS for OCD

It’s tough getting through these high school years. Always remember that you should do everything you can to reduce your stress. But hey, no pressure.

A Sidewalk in Philadelphia By RYAN EMS ‘19

I walk on the sidewalks of Philadelphia and observe the poverty; The pained, desperate faces looking directly at me. Their weary eyes silently asking for help and care; They ask, “Can you give me money for my bus fare?” I walk on the sidewalks of Philadelphia and feel the bitter cold; I talk with a man who was just recently paroled. He hasn’t seen his family in twenty years; He can’t seem to hold back the tears. I walk on the sidewalks of Philadelphia and see the drugs; A man comes over who looks like a thug. He asks me if I could sell him some weed; I reply, “Sorry, I can’t help your need.” I walk on the sidewalks of Philadelphia and go through an underpass; Using my feet to dodge the jagged, broken glass. A man rests silently by the graphitti filled wall; He wonders if his life has any meaning at all.

The Race for NJ Governor, or wait? There’s an election? BY JACOB SAFIER ‘21 Staff Reporter Here’s a fact that no one has seemed to realize: there is an election on November 7th for our next governor to replace Chris Christie. Meet the candidates: Kim Guadagno is the Republican candidate for governor. She is the current lieutenant governor and the Secretary of State of New Jersey. She wants to cut property taxes and taxes for middle class families, audit Trenton, and improve the environment of the state for jobs. “If we elect Phil Murphy to be the governor of the state of New Jersey then the only person who will be able to afford to live here will be Phil Murphy,” said Guadagno about her opponent, Phil Murphy. On her website, she makes clear she

wants to fix the transportation system, create a more friendly environment for military members and veterans, fix work benefits such as pensions and health benefits, cut property taxes, audit Trenton, improve the education, grow the workforce, and fight the opioid epidemic. Guadagno’s running mate is Carlos Rendo, the current mayor of Woodclicf Lake, NJ. Phil Murphy is the Democratic candidate for governor. He is a former U.S. Ambassador to Germany and a former Goldman Sachs executive. He supports taxing millionaires and funding the state’s pension system and schools at 100%. He is well known for his willingness to raise taxes. He has been criticized by many for supporting a $1.3 billion tax hike and toughness of corporations. On his website, he says he wants to tax millionaires, raise the minimum

wage, improve education, work on environmental issues, support women’s health and reform healthcare, battle addiction, make homes more affordable, promote justice and equality, and reform the transportation system. There are also other candidates running. The Libertarian Party candidate is Peter Rohrman, a network engineer. He is running with Kareem Laguerre, a dental hygienist. The Libertarian Party stands for economic freedom, small government, social freedom, and little restrictions on most other issues. The Green Party candidate is Seth Kaper-Dale, a pastor. He is running with Lisa Durden, who is a political commentator. The Green Party stands for environmentalism, nonviolence, social justice and equality, and peace. The Constitution Party candidate is a United States Marine Corps veteran,

Matt Riccardi. The Independent candidate is Gina Genovese. She is mainly running on lowering property taxes. Her running mate is Derel Stroud. Very few students seem to know about the election. This is true for many including Matthew Thomas, a freshman. “What election?,” he was wondering. He said he knew it was coming up, but hadn’t heard anything about it before. Another student said, “I know there’s an election coming up but I don’t know who’s running or what they’re running for. This reflects a pattern. Besides political people, the majority of students ask the same question as Matthew. As one student said, “wait, when’s the election?”

October 2017

Features

The Voyager 7

Tara Tobin showcases her designs at Atlantic City Fashion Week By Lauren Casole ‘19 Features Editor

unior Tara Tobin has an incredible gift for designing her own clothes. She debuted her ‘passion for fashion’ on September 14, 2017 at Atlantic City Fashion Week. She started sewing when she was in fifth grade at a sewing academy called Cattell Sew and Vac. “I started there with the very basics,” she said, “like sewing on paper and doing different projects. Then, I got really interested in the aspects of sewing and creating things.” She was trained at Cattell’s to become a teacher and now works there teaching younger kids how to sew.

This job opened up so many doors for Tara because her boss was going to have a booth set up at ACFW and she came to Tara and gave her an application to submit her own work. “I filled out the online application and they sent me an email back saying congratulations you are in ACFW,” said Tara. The process consisted of describing your inspiration for the collection you wanted to make and how you were going to intertwine that with your designs. Tara also had to make her own patterns for the show, so it was completely original. “We had to make our own patterns and clothing, then fit it to the models they gave us,” said Tara. Three different pieces were needed for her collection and all of the contestants

needed to arrive at the show at 10 o’clock in the morning in order to prepare the models. “There was a complication where some of the models got switched around so I had to do some alterations, but it all turned out okay,” Tobin said. Tara’s inspiration was a bohemian feel. “I like big sleeves and funky prints,” she said. ACFW was also a competition between high school and college students. Only eleven students were selected to show off their creations. Although Tara did not win the competition, she left a lasting impression on the judges. “I got talking to the director of the show and she told me how great my collection was and that I should come back and try

again next year,” said Tara. She also stated that she learned how to create new patterns and think outside the box. The process was very nerve racking and she dedicated the whole month of August to finishing her collection. Tara now has a portfolio of all her clothes from the show. Mrs. Heyers, fashion teacher, said it’s so exciting when a student pursues fashion outside of class. “I am thrilled with her dedication and creativity,” she said.

Check out VoyagerOnline.org for more photos and videos of Tara at Atlantic City Fashion Week!

Creative therapy provides new view into psychiatry By SRISHTI RAMESH ‘19 Managing Editor

he world of psychology has always been a deeply layered and complex field. Psychiatrists and therapists have developed hundreds of methods over the years to treat mentally ill patients, which have been proven to work differently for each person. While medicine and traditional kinds of therapy can certainly positively impact a person’s mental health, creative therapy is a relatively new technique for healing, but art and music therapy have been proven to have numerous positive effects. While art therapy began its evolution in the early 1900s, Dr. Margaret Naumburg is considered the founder of this kind of treatment. In 1947, she partnered with Dr. Nolan C. Lewis to conduct a study to determine whether or not the art expression of children was a symbolic form of speech. The research spurred many other mental health experts to continue exploring this and, in 1968, Hahnemann Medical College in Philadelphia created the first Art Therapy educational curriculum of a Master of Arts program, one which Shari Palitz, who worked as an art therapist at Community Behavioral Health in Philadelphia, graduated from several decades later. “Art therapy provides the opportunity for non verbal expression and communication,” Palitz said. She explained that there are two approaches to the field: art as therapy and art psychotherapy. Art as therapy “implies that the creative

process can be a means both of reconciling emotional conflict and or fostering self awareness and personal growth,” while in art psychotherapy, art is used to help the individual “find a more compatible relationship between his inner and outer worlds.” In art therapy, it is important to consider several aspects when deciding which mediums to use on a patient. For example, a patient with ADHD or anxiety would likely not use paint or wet clay while doing art therapy, as it would not provide structure for them. Colored pencils would be a better fit for them, while less structured mediums are helpful with expressing emotions or are used for relaxation, as stated by Carolyn Mehlomakulu, an art therapist and psychotherapist. Myra F. Levick’s book titled “They Could Not Talk & So They Drew” describes how art therapy can help children with various challenges and traumas communicate through art rather than words. While the book specifically discussed people under the age of ten years old, art therapy can benefit anyone, especially if the patient is not very open to talking. According to Palitz, art therapy can “get to feelings we did not know we had” and is a healthy way of acting out feelings or impulses. In an article on Psychology Today, it even states that art therapy is used to decrease stress and relieve pain for cancer patients. Music therapy works in similar ways, as it can be used to help children with developmental delays, adults struggling with PTSD, victims of abuse, individuals diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder, delivering mothers, among many others. Ac-

cording to music therapist Ely-Ann Knight, music therapy can be utilized in many ways, with the guitar used most often, to even having a small orchestra group. Moving to, listening to, or even creating music has been shown to help patients improve. “I personally believe that music therapy can accomplish more than talk therapy,” Knight said, “but at the same time, I understand that there are certain individuals who might show more progress with traditional ‘talk’ therapy.” Additionally, art and music therapy, although used professionally, can be somewhat applied in the life of a high schooler as well. Many relate to having been stressed out and then using doodling or listening to a song to calm down. Art and music stimulate parts of the brain to improve heart rate, reduce anxiety, and relieve tension. According to the Huffington Post, “45 minutes of creative activity significantly lessens stress in the body, regardless of artistic experience or talent.”

Artwork by Jordan Barber ‘18

Creative therapy, as a whole, is a field that requires expertise. To be an art or music therapist, especially if dealing with serious cases, it is necessary to be knowledgeable in many aspects of the field (such as being able to play many instruments) and explore many different mediums to best suit the patient. The American Music Therapy Association (AMTA), whose mission is to “advance public awareness of the benefits of music therapy and increase access to quality music therapy services”, stated that a degree involves knowledge in psychology, music, and medicine. While creative therapy is a unique way of mental healing, it has been proven to be extremely effective in many different kinds of people. As art and music become more accepted by the public and more important to bettering mental health, a shift in the world of psychology can be seen and will likely be prominent in the future.

8 The Voyager

Features

October 2017

That one man by the bridge By NIKI KOKOLIS ‘19 Special to The Voyager

was loosely blowing in the cold wind. The only protection he had from the cold weather was a light plaid flannel that also exposed a few rips. I had always been an advocate of helping people. I often got extremely upset when I wasn’t able to find solutions to problems. I have been a Girl Scout since first grade, and am also part of a church youth group that participates in many community service events and charities that focuses on helping the needy. Immediately, by instinct, I demanded that my mom roll down the window, so we could help this poverty-stricken man. “Niki, I want to help,” she said, “but we don’t have time. The light just turned green, and I don’t think I have any cash on me either. I only

t was early morning. We were driving to Philadelphia for yet another appointment. For one reason or another, it seemed like my parents were constantly taking either my brother or me to see the doctor. As we were crossing the Benjamin Franklin Bridge, countless thoughts ran through my mind. How exhilarating it would feel to walk across the top of this monstrous bridge? What natural disasters could possibly occur at any particular moment? Whenever we crossed the bridge, my imaginative brain would think of the bridge collapsing out of nowhere, our car falling into the deep blue abyss. My brother and mom were discussing the upcoming appointment, and I was have munching on a warm quesadilla from my credit Taco Bell. It wasn’t too sunny, and my card.” mood was already ruined from having to wake up so early. The gloomy November weather just added to my unhappiness. After crossing the bridge, my mom began pressing the breaks on our black minivan. We had arrived at a traffic light, the light glaring red. There were several “Please!” I said. “There has to be cars ahead of us. In the middle of all that something!” traffic, I noticed a young man holding a My brother chipped in, “Do you think cardboard sign with neat, black writing. he would want The light then turned the quesadillas?” He was wearing torn up blue green, and our car I smiled slowly idled forward jeans with rips (not purposefully gratefully at cut out for fashion). His with the surrounding my brother’s gray tank top, that normally traffic. As we got should’ve been tight to the skin, ingenious idea. I nearer to him, I was grabbed the bag was loosely blowing in the cold able to read exactly full of two whole wind. what he had written. quesadillas and “Homeless. Anything handed it over to helps.” my mom. She rolled down the window, My heart sank. He was wearing torn up and the young man trudged over. My blue jeans with rips (not purposefully cut mom asked him if he would accept food out for fashion). His gray tank top, that because it was all we had on us at the normally should’ve been tight to the skin,

moment. I will never forget the words he said next. The biggest smile broke out from his exhausted but handsome face. “Thank you so much,” he said. “

in their natural, everyday life. After seeing this man freezing on the side of the street begging for anything people

Cartoon by Lisa Traczyk ‘19

God Bless you.” I often think thought about how happy that boy looked, and I felt like I had made an enormous positive impact even though it had just been a small gesture. I was a young girl at the time, so this one man’s reaction changed my whole outlook on what it felt like to help other people. Even though I had helped people in other ways many times before that November day, now everything I did felt more rewarding because of this one man. He helped me truly realize the positive effect I had over the people around me. When I helped people prior to that event, I never really got to see them

could offer, my desire to help others grew stronger. I was ignorant to what their lives really looked like because I had only ever donated items or worked at soup kitchens. For a while, I couldn’t understand how this man, even after his unfortunate circumstances, could be smiling due to a small gift that I had the luxury of eating whenever I pleased. This cruel reality helped me strive to be a better version of myself. Every time, even to this day, as we pass the road he used to stand on, I pray to never see him there again. I desperately want to believe that there were other people out there that helped him just as we had.

A field trip to the gazebo offers peaceful relection By MARISSA FELTOON ‘19 Special to The Voyager

walk through the hallway with my peers, surrounded by the off-white cinder blocks, heading from Mr. Bowne’s room to the memorial gazebo. I pass through the blue doors to the breezeway: the sunshine that September day blinds me. I continue to the white gazebo, passing the The names of the members of the Eastern family who have evergreens, the hostas, and the faded passed are adorned inside the gazebo. mulch that boarded the walkway. The Inside the memorial Gazebo, there warmth of the sunshine heats up the non-shaded places. are plaques of the names of those The fifteen-foot tall gazebo casts a large shadow. before us at Eastern who have I rest on the bench and immediately feel the uncomfortably passed. Mr. Bowne enters and short distance between the bench and the back, which starts to read the names and explain forces me to sit more upright. the background behind each of the I begin to take note of sensory attractions that sparked my names of his former teachers and senses. Sounding as if a herd of hundreds of bumble bees friends: Ms. Moyer . . . Mr. Goode . . fifty feet away from me, the air conditioning unit creates a . Mr. Fuller . . . constant buzzing noise. On top of the rumbling box of metal I can feel their presence in his that was so oddly sticking out of the side of the building, heart, and then feel the drop in my I hear my classmates asking Mr. Bowne for clarifications. heart as he reads the name “Bruce What could or could not qualify as one of the senses? Jackson.” That forces me to think Breathing in the cool fresh air, a rush of clarity pulses of my friend who passed away two through my body, relaxing me, allowing me to stay calm. years ago, Kara. I notice nature around me. I can taste the air cool on my Hearing the announcement that we tongue: that priceless taste of the outdoors. I sense an even are to report back to the classroom, I cooler sensation in my mouth, thanks to my ever fading in rise from my seat and begin to walk flavor mint gum that I have been chewing for about twenty to the door, once again feeling the minutes. beaming sun on my skin.

English 3 Honors wrote a sensory essay about the gazebo. Photos by Kiersten Clem ‘20

Features

October 2017

The Voyager 9

The Struggle with the SAT

By KARINA MADRID ‘18 Features Editor

tandardized testing has been a rising issue with SATs just around the corner and more kids stressing over the excessive amount of studying that is required for them to do well on these tests. SATs began in the 1930s as a scholarship test for only Ivy League Schools. Originally, this test was meant for students who came from humble backgrounds and wanted to be noticed by more prestigious schools. After hearing this news, many universities followed this trend. However, many of these universities did not realize this form of standardized testing will potentially hurt students rather than help them. The debate over standardized testing has been a topic that many parents and teachers have been discussing in recent years. The main questions that many of them have is, “Why is standardized testing so important?”. Recently, many colleges have not been requiring high school students to submit their SAT scores in order to apply to that particular college. Instead,

many of these colleges look at the biggest increases in test the activities and GPA scores scores under the No Child instead of the actual SAT score. Left Behind Act’s mandates. Teachers working in the public The students who spend school system refer to the SAT hours each day cramming in as “Total Testing Anxiety.” extra SAT practice tests have However, many people are not high hopes of getting acceptopposed to standardized testing into a great college. Howing since they believe it should ever, many schools across the not determine the class level country have a test-optional a certain student should take. policy which does not require Dawn Neely-Randall, who has students to submit their SAT taught in Ohio Schools for 24 scores to that certain college. years, asked one of her middle “I don’t mind taking stanschool students what they think dardized tests. I just don’t of standardized tests such as like how they dictate your the PARCC Assessment. One future,” said Emily Shlapak, of her students responded by a senior at Indian Hills High saying “I feel like we have to School in Oakland, NJ. Shtake all these tests and, if I pass lapak also stated, “There’s a lot the tests, I of pressure live and if I for a single don’t, I die”. “I don’t mind taking test, and it Many tests standardized tests. simply schools that how students I just don’t like have been can do unforced to der a timed how they put the most constraint”. dictate your hours into Olivia Faltest prep are cigno, a sefuture.” usually the nior at Amity schools who High School, are in the also stated, most disadvantaged communi“In an ideal world, there should ties. The reason behind this is be no number that represents because they have to achieve one person’s intelligence.”

Should I take the SAT or ACT? Which one is more important? Both of these questions are the first things that come to mind as juniors in high school begin to think about taking the exam. The truth behind this question is that it truly doesn’t matter. The majority of college admissions officers say as long as your GPA is high and you are involved, you should be set. Before students begin to take prep classes for the SAT and ACT exams, many teachers are informing their students that many colleges do not require

an SAT score to be submitted. Currently, there are about 850 test-optional schools in the US today. This trend has been slowly growing over the past decade. With this trend rising, many are wondering what colleges look for instead. Former Dean of Admissions for Bates College William Hiss said GPA matters the most. Hiss stated although activities and clubs are very important for every student to be involved in, GPA is the most important.

The evolving nature of standardized testing By LAUREN CASOLE ‘19 Features Editor

urrently, there are fifteen different versions of standardized tests being used in schools today. Some of these tests are required only by the state you live in while others are nationwide. According to edglossary.org, a standardized test is defined as any form of test that requires everyone taking it to answer all the same questions, receive the same amount of time, and be scored with a “consistent” rubric. This makes it easier to compare students or groups of students because the questions, time and grading process are the same throughout. The SAT Subject Test or Scholastic Aptitude Test was designed for colleges to fairly compare students for admissions, because they would be judged on an equal platform. However, there is currently so much evolving in the world of standardized testing and new changes are being implemented. For example, the point value of the SAT changed and the whole test was revamped and became simpler in both design and scoring. Whether these changes are beneficial or hurtful to students scores are for the future to decide. Also, it can be argued that standardized tests and not actually standardized. Max Traylor, who is a college counselor at the company College Planning, said, “students in low-income communities score significantly lower on the SAT/ ACT compared to students in wealthier areas.” He also said, “Some educators believe the tests are biased and not reflective of the intelligence and capability of a student.” With anything in life, there are always positives and negatives. Sometimes they cancel each other out and other times one outweighs the

other. In hopes of making the SAT’s slightly less stressful for some students, College Board, which is the organization behind the SAT’s and PSAT’s decided to make the essay optional. Depending on what college you want to apply to will determine whether or not the essay is something to consider. Standardized testing can be traced as far back as 1838, in the United States according to nea.org, which is the National Education Association. This era is pre-civil war and the beginning of standardized testing. Teachers were developing the idea of comparing their students academically and ranking them according to their brain power. The first SAT was not administered until 1926, after World War I, but the idea had been around for about 90 years. The question at hand is whether or not these standardized tests are helping increase education in America and accurately comparing students. According to ProCon.org, about 93% of studies have shown that standardized testing is beneficial to students because they are reliable and show an accurate

representation of their smartness. Numbers do not lie when everyone takes the same test and is compared with the same rubric. Junior Michelle Litvak agreed with this statement by saying, “it helps colleges get a perspective about how well you take tests”. Traylor said, “yes, your scores on standardized tests are a large part of

admissions decisions, though the high school transcripts is typically the most important part.” Teachers feel that they are “teaching to the test,” this way their students can get the best grades possible. ProCon.org stated that when teachers “teach to the test” it can be beneficial to students because it’s good to focus on skills that are important enough to be on a state or nation wide test. If it wasn’t important, then it would not be worth putting on the test.

Another point brought up by junior Sophia Hernandez is the perspective that standardized tests in high school will prepare you for college exams. She said, “they are good practice and help you prepare for long college exams.” On another end, about 67% of parents feel that their child should not be judged on testing alone, but other factors. This information was provided by neatoday. org in a survey that was conducted during the 2015 school year. Parents stressed that the school was putting too much emphasis on testing. Lindsey Schoeffler, who is a junior, said, “There are other ways to prove that students know material.” Some students are simply not good test takers, but that does not mean they do not know the material. Students automatically feel pressure when they have to take a standardized test. They know that they are being compared to other students and for some a standardized test could determine whether or not they get into the college of their choice. Stress can have a negative

effect on so many test takers and it can get the best of them. Traylor said that some schools are becoming test optional colleges with hopes to bridge the gap and remove those barriers for students that are not the best test takers and focus more on grades. A few of the points that connectusfund. org mentioned is that the questions are sometimes too general. When you have a general question, you are assessing the students general knowledge and not their ability to study material. Another example is that sometimes the questions can be ridiculous and unnecessarily challenging. Teachers who were interviewed in connectusfund.org’s article on standardized testing stated that “some tests are not even designed for students to pass.” Traylor said that “many in education believe that it is not fair to students to test using one measurement like the SAT’s or ACT’s and have it mean so much for their chances on getting into a school.” Standardized testing was implemented in the United States as a way to test a large number of students as quickly as possible. This happened during the Industrial Revolution as kids were needed to work in factories. Times have since changed and as much as people love standardized testing or love to hate it, it has been part of our educational system for over ninety years and it is not going anywhere anytime soon. Despite the positive and negative outlooks and the changes being made to testing, in order to get through school you need to know how to take a test and take a test well.

See more from The Voyager on our new website: voyager-online.org

10 October 2017

Mrs. Stellar By LISA TRACZYK ‘19 Art Editor

Mrs. Stellar had been teaching at Oaklyn Public School k-9 for twenty-five years before she decided to switch her career over to Eastern Regional High School. “I decided it was time to make a change in my career,” Mrs. Stellar said. “Hearing all about how great Eastern was and their students finalized my choice to teach here.” Mrs. Stellar attended Georgetown University. Besides teaching, she is a part time Adjunct Professor at Rowan University. The subject of her course is teaching reading and writing in the content areas. “My job is to teach reading and writing to college students who want to become teachers.

Whether they are math teachers, science, etc. That way they can teach their students.” Early on her path to find a career, Mrs. Stellar thought about becoming a writer. However, her decision to become a teacher was made by volunteering at a public school in Washington, D.C. She fell in love with the idea of teaching ever since. Recalling the students from her volunteer experience dreamily. They were great to work with. Now, Mrs. Stellar teaches English for freshman college prep and sophomore honors. Believing the path to success academically is to always have a positive attitude, work hard, and ask questions.

Mr. Patton By HALEY ALLSEBROOK ‘20 Staff Reporter

“I love to inspire curiosity,” said Mr. Schuyler Patton, the new chemistry teacher. Prior to Eastern, he taught at Central High School in Philadelphia. Born in Virginia, Mr. Patton’s father served in the military. Therefore, Mr. Patton traveled a lot. He has lived in Japan, Georgia, and Ohio. Much of where he spent his growing up was in Madison, Indiana from 5th grade onward. Here, he attended Madison High School. Later, he attended college at Bucknell University for material science and chemical engineering. Following his time at Bucknell, Mr. Patton continued his education at the University of Pennsylvania for his masters degree in chemistry education. Following college, he managed his own pub and restaurant. He met his wife and now has three kids named Fiona who is 9, Ansley who is going to be 7, and Campbell who is 4. In his free time he likes to coach his daughter’s soccer teams, long board, hatchet throw, golf, and cook. Now going on his 13th year of teaching, he has taught material science, chemical engineering, food science, physics, and chemistry. But while he is a chemistry teacher, not all of his experiments have gone as planned. Once, while teaching chemistry, he was experimenting with pure sodium samples and the substance shot out of the container and stuck to the ceiling which caused some ceiling damage! But that was the past and now he’s ready to take on Eastern.

Ms. Cipriani By OLIVIA COVINGTON ‘19 Staff Reporter Miss Cipriani is one of two new Spanish teachers, but this isn’t her first time teaching. “I wanted to get back into teaching, and I’ve always known Eastern to be a great school because I’m from Medford.” Mrs. Cipriani studied Spanish in Spain and Argentina and has been to Puerto Rico several times. Miss Cipriani graduated from University of Maryland and majored in Spanish and International business. Becoming a Spanish teacher was not her primary career choice at first. She was formerly involved with operations management for a large wholesale seafood company in the Bronx. With all of her experience, Mrs.

Cipriani realized she had a lot to give to students and decided to teach. Seemingly, she is adjusting to Eastern well and enjoys being here. “I love it so far, the students have been nice and polite and my colleagues have been very friendly and helpful.” said Mrs. Cipriani contently. She’s known Eastern her whole life and is pleased with her stay so far. “I hope that students know I know Spanish is hard,” she said, “but I hope they can take away at least an interest in the language and the culture and the people who speak it.”

New Teach

Mr. Yotsko By JORDAN LEWIS ‘19 Staff Reporter

Mr. Yotsko, physical education teacher, starts the first year of his new found career right here at Eastern. He received his education at Rowan University, earning his BA degree of health and physical education in 2015. As of now, he is working towards of getting his TOSD (teacher of students with disabilities) GE (graduate endorsement). “You’re not always stuck sitting inside a room,” Yotsko said on becoming a physical education teacher “You’re always moving, and always active.” Upon being hired, he was already familiar with Eastern. During his high school years at Timber Creek, he often f a c e d Eastern

when

participating in sports. He played football, baseball, hockey, and track. He intends to present a fun, healthy, exercising environment for students can enjoy during Physical Education class. There is one challenge that Mr. Yotsko has faced, and is grabbing students’ atte and keeping them enga “I want to let students a say in what we do, yo more inclined to participate if vote on what you want” Mr. Yo said. Doing this, he hopes o building a relationship wit students. “My year, and students, so far have

Ms. Hughes BY JOSH MEYERS ‘21 Staff Reporter

How many can say that they’ve taken a selfie with Mona Lisa? How many can say that they want to do a cartwheel on the top of the Great Wall of China? How many can say that they have wanted to pursue their dream job since they were a child? Taylor Hughes can. She is the the new art teacher who holds many qualities and ambitions. Ms. Hughes grew up in South Jersey, attending Seneca High School, where she realized that she wanted to be an art teacher when she was older. Two teachers, Ms. Ciavaglia and Mr. Dooley, inspired her to teach. After high school, Ms. Hughes attended The College of New Jersey and majored in art. Hughes loved how her art teachers got to talk about the history, all of the different paintings, and how they got to express themselves. “I want to do that too,” she said. So, Ms. Hughes put on her painting coat and began her

her Profiles

t e s

Miss Murray

D e

d s ,

n d , e a g r y n

e o

university. Miss Murray also participated in research on drug viability testing against the Herpes Simplex Virus. She chose to teach at Eastern because of the location and the school’s mission and goals. “Eastern is invested in the success of their students,” she said, sitting at one of the lab tables in her Anatomy and Biology classroom. A few weeks into her first teaching job, she stated with genuine enthusiasm, “There are such great resources available, and kind individuals.” What does she like most about teaching? “Everyday is something new,” she said. “Learning more. I learn a lot all the time everyday.” She believes and implements a constructivist style of teaching in her classroom. It is based on building upon students existing knowledge to answer a particular problem on their own, resulting in retainment. Adventurous, committed, and considerate, Miss Murray participates in nature activities outside of the classroom. During her free time, she enjoys spending time on her inflatable bright green kayak on a river near Cherry Hill. She also goes hiking at destinations such as Alaska and Wyoming. “I am a big fan of nature,” she said.

By GABRIELLE GILHAM ‘18 Staff Reporter Miss Rebecca Murray, a recent graduate from Rowan University, is a new Honors Anatomy and College Prep Biology teacher. After attending Bridgewater-Raritan High School, she received her Bachelor of Science degree in Biology, Bachelor of Arts degree in Subject Matter Education, and a Concentration in Honors Studies. She took part in many activities during her time in college, such as being the Honors Studies President, a peer tutor in the Academic Success Center, an Admissions Ambassador, and she was apart of Leadership Rowan– an organization aimed to inform students about the opportunities at the

t d that ention aged. have ou’re f you Yotsko on to th his d the been

The Voyager 11

Mi s De s Mu rr an Zu ay a cca ssi rel sts li w Fr ith esh m cla ssw an ork

good.” He likes to be participating with them because, in return, it keeps him in shape. Outside of Eastern, he keeps himself fit by coaching at Timber Creek. He found coaching football, baseball, and swimming to be a hobby that he enjoys. He hopes to eventually earn the opportunity to coach at Eastern as well. Besides teaching and coaching, Mr. Yotsko enjoys spending time with his vast family. “I like to keep myself up and try not to be still,” he said. “I find ways not to lock myself in the house.”

Mr.Thomas From instructional aid to special education teacher

dream Her first teaching job came in Ewing High School where she could actually talk about art and educate others on her favorite subject. This school year, Hughes joined Eastern and loves every second of it. She adores the art program, the atmosphere, and the reputation of it. “It’s such an amazing school district,” she said. Besides, art and painting, Ms. Hughes enjoys spending time with her family and her dog. She also hikes in the wilderness in her free time and cherishes the outdoors. She wants to take her love for the outdoors and visit all of the National Parks when she has the chance. She travels a lot and that inspired her art. An example of this is a painting she is working on that involves a picture she took out of her window when she had gone to Italy. Quotes placed in her classroom motivate her. “Creativity takes courage” by Henri Matisse and “An artist cannot fail. It is a success to be one.” Taylor Hughes is very excited to bring her art teaching to Eastern and can’t wait for the future.

Ms. Hughes and Bianca Gennaoui paint pottery during class

By VICTORIA LAPINSON ‘21 Staff Reporter

“Change is the law of life,” John F. Kennedy said, “and those who look only to the past or present are certain to miss the future.” This is also the motto of former instructional assistant and recently recruited special education teacher at Eastern, Mr. Justin Thomas. An advocate for new ideas and experiences, Mr. Thomas can be identified by his increasingly eclectic nature. While an avid learner and passionate teacher, he also finds fulfillment in various activities, including, but not limited to: Jeep projects, hands on endeavors, lacrosse, and wood work. Mr. Thomas’s draw to the outdoors goes beyond these though. In fact, his original career plan was to be a park ranger. Even today, when a free day arises, he prefers the sunlight and “take the doors off the Jeep and go for a ride.” Despite his “call to the outdoors,” Mr. Thomas values his teaching work and hopes to continue at Eastern. His interest in the profession of being a teacher was sparked after working with Boy Scouts. “I had been working at a scout camp teaching merit badges and really enjoyed the work,” he said. Mr. Thomas enjoyed the work so much so, that he switched majors in college and pursued education.

All photos by ALEX MACKLE’18

He is, however, not new to the school. Since 2014, Thomas has been an instructional assistant. He describes his experience in the community here with great admiration. Before then, Eastern had only been a location passed on the way to his child’s dentist. Today, Mr. Thomas is a very important figure and friendly face at Eastern. The new position as a Special Ed teacher serves as a perfect fit for Thomas’s hardworking restless spirit. Eastern is a new home. “Hopefully,” Mr. Thomas said, “I’m still at Eastern in ten years.”

More profiles coming in November

12 The Voyager

ETV’s crucial factor for success as mode of communication

hange was rife at Eastern last year. While some aspects of school life were modified or newly introduced, others were altogether scrapped. Homeroom was no longer, and with it went the school’s primary mode of communication with the student body. That’s where ETV came in. Although it seemed like a good idea at first, it didn’t take long to notice that the TV’s in the hallway displaying the school news broadcasts were not fulfilling its intended purpose. Students (predictably) weren’t stopping dead in their tracks to catch the latest score for the girl’s soccer game or what clubs were having a meeting during what lunch that day. So the administration, to their credit, sought to fix the problem. Our schedule has a new edition this year—a seven minute block in second period. It finally seems that an apt solution has been found to solve the problem of communication in the school. Except, it hasn’t—not quite. There’s something the administration didn’t take into account when they decided to implement this new practice. Teenagers will be teenagers. We are noisy, we have short attention spans, and perhaps, most importantly of all, we are addicted to our phones. According to responses collected from the Voyager staff, teachers are fairly consistent with tuning into ETV news. There’s inevitably the one teacher who forgets or who chooses to forgo the announcements because they need to squeeze in a tiny bit more of a lesson, but all in all, the teachers aren’t the problem. Kids are either too busy packing up, talking with other classmates, or scrolling through their Twitter feeds to pay attention to the broadcast. In fact, the Voyager staff consistently agreed time and time again that only very few students listen. They consider it free time, especially if the dif-

ferent announcements do not pertain to their interests. It’s annoying at worst and distracting at best for the students who need to hear bits of information so they don’t miss something important. The fact that some students are ignoring ETV is disappointing. As the school’s most forefront way of disseminating announcements to a large audience with daily information about clubs, sports, activities, deadlines and other general info, students should care more and put the phone down. What makes ETV great is that it’s visual and completely accessible. It’s seen by the entire school at the same time, everyday. Anchors are lively and entertaining and, theoretically, students should watch because, in a way, they are being forced to. However, if there are any loopholes, students will be the ones to find it. And when you leave it up to student prerogative, it’s a no go. Take for instance, the phys-ed classes. Students are in locker rooms for that last seven minute period, usually unsupervised. It’s rare to see a student break out an iPad at this time to tune in to the news. Considering all of the hard work that goes into each and every episode made for every day of the week, if not the broadcasts, then the anchors and all of those who work behind the scenes, plus Mr. Holmes, warrant more respect. While there are little mistakes here and there and not everything is perfect, the hard-work and energy our peers have put into the news should weigh heavily on our minds the next time we make the decision to talk through those seven minutes. The news is still a product of Eastern students and staff, and despite what many may believe, they are trying to work through this whole communication barrier as best as they possibly can. ETV and its designated period are new, and like all new things, it needs time to find its footing, get settled, and then see to improvements.

Opinion

Artwork by Hayley Beluch ‘18

Consensus on gun control must be reached to prevent further violence

By MAANASI NATARAJAN ‘19 Opinion Editor

rian Murtagh, a 52-year old Navy veteran, gave a famous analogy in 2015 about the idea that any young man who wishes to buy a gun should go through the same process as a young woman seeking an abortion. “Think about it,” he wrote. “A mandatory 48-hours waiting period, written permission from a parent or judge, a note from a doctor proving that he understands what he is about to do, time spent watching a video on individual and mass murders, traveling hundreds of miles at his own expense to the nearest gun shop, and walking through protesters holding photos of loved ones killed by guns, protesters who call him a murderer.” He considered this analogy a “clever way to show hypocrisy between the different positions.” Although many Second Amendment proponents may disagree with this analogy, they may be done fighting against gun control once and for all. The United States makes up less than 5% of the world’s population, but holds 31% of global mass shooters. This is no coincidence considering Americans own more guns per capita than residents of any other country. These startling statistics are barely surprising in a country where 45 out of the 50 states allow open carrying of handguns. Despite the United States’s 10-year history of violent mass shootings, which Eastern Regional High School dates back to April 2007 on 1401 Laurel Oak Road the Virginia Tech campus and Voorhees, NJ 08043 includes the devastating San856-784-4441 dy Hook shooting, lawmakwww.voyager-online.org ers have made seemingly no progress on the enforcement THE VOYAGER of stricter gun laws, ultimately Alex Mackle , Hayley Beluch: Editors-in-Chief resulting in the highest ever Srishti Ramesh, Shreya Gowda, Julia Dodd, : Managing Editors Hana Hancock, Maanasi Natarajan: Opinion Editors death toll of a mass shooting Ruthie Douglass, Jessica Bonamassa: News Editors in the US, with 59 dead. Karina Madrid, Lauren Casole : Features Editors The Las Vegas massacre Jaimie McCormick: Entertainment Editor serves as just one more examCrystal Osuji and Layla Turner: Assistant Entertainment Editors ple of domestic terrorism by Anthony Cutrera, Eric Horn: Sports Editors way of gun violence that will Lisa Traczyk: Art Editor continue to happen if lawmakKierstin Clem: Photography Editor ers do not start taking action Nancy Bowne: Copy Editor for gun control. “Thoughts and prayers goStaff Reporters ing out to those suffering” can Haley Allesbrook, Hayley Bricker, Paul Brown, Olivia Covington, Cameron Davis, Bryce only do so much. The plan for Dersham, Aliyah El-Muhammad, Gabrielle Gilham, Ryan Ems, Ava Hancock, Tanner Koch, real prevention must begin Val Lapinson, Jordan Lewis, Ryan Margolis, Cynthia Meas, Joshue Meyers, Matthew with the realization that no Morante, Nick Ray, Dan Rinne, Jacob Saifer, Evelyn Steele, Matt Steinsaltz, Robert Sundstrom

October 2017

change will occur without cracking down on gun laws, and that realization essentially begins with people thinking past themselves and their own lives. We must realize that there is a right and wrong way to analyze mass shootings. The wrong way is to immediately contemplate the shooter’s mindset and whether he or she is connected with ISIS or if he or she is mentally ill; to, essentially, deliberate the loss of life as an afterthought. We should instead be focusing on how to prevent future shootIf we can’t, ings and consider now, after the the idea that more largest mass guns are equivalent to more gun deaths. shooting in US The gun control dehistory, when bate seems to be the only one in which the will we? default response is indifference and to argue that no law can prevent bad people from doing bad things - which is true, to a certain extent - but an equally valid counterargument holds that the government could be doing a lot more to stop weapons of mass murder from getting into the wrong hands. The question undoubtedly boils down to whether we will ever be able to settle on sensible gun regulations in wake of mass shootings like Las Vegas or San Bernardino or Orlando or Columbine. And if we can’t now, after the largest mass shooting in US history, when will we? For the country’s sake, the hope is that the answer will emerge before the critical state of gun violence reaches its tipping point.

October 2017

Opinion

Politics getting out of control

Please, use those Ipads

More and more have joined American football player Colin Kaepernick’s protest movement against police brutality, a move that has come to be something of direct resistance to Donald Trump. The move to take a knee during the national anthem before a game, or stand with arms locked in silent protest, follows in a long tradition of sports stars standing up for what they believe to be right. Some, however, are starting to claim that it is unpatriotic. Politics should be kept out of sports. This entire debate is rooted in one thing, “TRUMP.” Controversy after controversy has continued to arise because of Trump’s habit of speaking his mind. For better or for worse, President Trump’s large opinions have reached into the minds and hearts of all Americans inciting strong political beliefs. Our nation is becoming more and more divided. More than ever political talk has inﬁltrated the workplace, overtaken conversations at restaurants, and even been discussed in common places like the gym. The fact is that Americans are becoming more strong minded, but when people turn on the TV and see a late night show talking about Trump they don’t care; they want to relax. Politics are becoming too much of a part of our daily lives. Americans need to remember that we are Americans. We are the best country in the world. That means everyone can share his or her voice and beliefs. Whether football players taking a knee during the national anthem matters or not, we need to remember that it isn’t something to focus on . . . like proper healthcare for everyone and tax reform and national security. Sometimes we just want to sit down and watch TV. We do not want a political debate. Sure, we should let the players take a knee because those 30 seconds of kneeling shouldn’t bother you, or anyone who truly wants to watch the game! The only person it should bother is the person walking by drinking their Starbucks Frappuccino. Who cares, let them kneel and just sit back, relax and watch the game! - Jacob Goldstein ‘20

The teachers at Eastern Regional High School should use the iPads more often because they are a great tool and help students learn and study in a way that is beneﬁcial to them. When using the iPads, students can take notes in a format that they feel will help them when studying. Theses iPads can do many things to make classes more fun and get students involved in a way that they like. These iPads make learning more engaging and interesting. There are many apps that can make learning fun. In the app Seesaw, students can turn in their presentations electronically and the class can vote for which one they like the best. This may motivate students to make a better presentation, and a presentation in correct context. Students may want to get the presentation with the most likes, so they might work a little harder to create a nice presentation in a cool new format that their classmates might enjoy. There is also iPad Mirroring for the Smart Board. This allows students who don’t necessarily like to stand up in front of a class and make speeches present their Power Points from their seat. There are so many apps that can make students lives easier, but it’s not just students lives that these iPads make easier, it’s also the teachers. There are so many apps that help teachers monitor the students on their iPads, and make grading much, much easier. For example, in Apple Classroom, teachers can monitor all the students’ iPads screens in their class to see if they are all on task. The teacher can freeze a student’s screen if he or she is not doing what he is supposed to be doing. From Apple Classroom teachers can also put the students back on track and onto the screen that they should have been on in the ﬁrst place. There are also apps that teachers can use to see if students have plagiarized on an essay or paper. Also, apps such as Google Classroom allows teachers to see if a student has turned in his or her work, or they can post a new homework assignment. Google Classroom also allows teachers to post notes and the textbook so students can study from their iPads. There are so many ways these iPads can help students and teachers learn. These are just a few ways the iPads help make learning fun and easy for students and teachers. These are also just some reasons why schools should continue using the iPads in classrooms. - Mackenzie Cooper ‘21

iPads are extremely helpful

Students can use iPads to either enhance or destroy their learning experience. However, there are ways teachers can monitor and prevent the iPads from being misused in class. These devices are revolutionary for education. They are extremely useful for teachers and students. They are used in a variety of ways to enhance the high school experience. The first reason these devices enhance the Eastern learning experience is having the ability to use the internet. The internet can be used for finding the definitions of words students may not know. They may also be used for having a convenient textbook right on their iPads. This also lightens the load in their book bag so they have less weight to haul across the school all day. Plus, that’s one less item students can forget from class thanks to the iPads.

Another reason these powerful devices enhance the Eastern learning experience is being able to type instead of write. The iPads are easier to take notes on rather than taking them on sheets of paper. This also saves paper so we use less of it, therefore helping the earth. Plus, some people are faster at typing than writing, so the lesson can move on faster. Also teachers can make sure their students don’t go off task if they use Apple Classroom. This will make it less likely that students will miss any important notes. For these reasons the iPads are extremely helpful to have around, and plus, they help the students remember to do their homework. For these reasons the iPads help students learn and remember things. That is why the iPads enhance the Eastern experience and helps the students of Eastern learn better. - Ethan Hourihan ‘21

@TheVoyager Submit letters to The Voyager ehsvoyager@gmail.com or Mr. Bowne, Room 605

The Voyager 13

Art by Jared Wilson ‘19

Of statues and pedestals: Lessons from Charlottesville By HANA HANCOCK ‘18 Opinion Editor

he Civil War was one of the bloodiest blemishes on the history of the United States. Slavery came to a theoretical end, yet here we are, 152 years later, debating whether or not statues of Civil War generals belong in public places, on display, in all of their “glory.” This isn’t the first time that this has happened. In fact, our history with statue removal dates back to before our inception as a country. On July 9th, 1776, after having heard the Declaration of Independence for the first time, the American colonists made their way towards Bowling Green, a Manhattan park, where they pulled down a statue of King George III. They swiftly proceeded to melt down the stone tyrant into lead musket balls and bullets, the very ones used in the American Revolution. Most Americans today would tell you that King George III was an oppressive tyrant who represented the opposite of American core values. How are the recent events any different from then? They’re not. In fact, they’re worse. The events of Charlottesville elicited a firestorm of responses from virtually everyone—the President’s was particularly maddening. His rhetoric cited violence on “many sides” for being at fault in the event, even though one group was in Charlottesville to represent Neo-Nazism and white supremacy while the other was there to protest a blatant act of hate and racism. Just when we thought award shows couldn’t get more political, celebrities felt obligated to voice their opinions; Paris Jackson went off script at the MTV Video Music Awards to condemn the “Nazi white supremacist jerks”. Social media was afire with posts denouncing the events. Trump hasn’t just encouraged racists—he has encouraged those who are against him to show their support for combatting hatred and to voice their own opposition. But it all comes down to this; statues of generals who fought on the side of the Confederate army in the Civil War, championing secession and slavery, do not belong on display in parks, on college campuses, or in any public places other than a museum. Statues are art forms, meant to consecrate a historical figure so they withstand the test of time and tower tall in our memories for their philanthropy, outstanding achievements, or amazing contribution to our country. These men are not to be upheld on pedestals of heroism. While these generals are still standing, racists and supremacists feel emboldened; they look up to these men as cultural and national idols, going so far as to do the unthinkable for them. Heather Hyer, a 32 year old woman, was killed amongst the protests in Charlottesville. The fact that people are still dying over an issue that shouldn’t even have to be given second thoughts to is a tragedy. The statues belong in museums, where Americans can learn about our history, Confederates and all. We’re not erasing our history by removing these statues and putting them in a different place, a place where learning about our past is encouraged regardless of the horrible things that occurred. There are no statues of Hitler in Germany; no one wants to prop up a man who prompted a war and sought to exterminate a whole race. We should be giving these generals the same treatment, because after all, are they any more different? Slaves and the Jewish people—the human condition was abused in both groups. Vice President Mike Pence said in response to the nationwide trend of statue removal that we should build more statues instead to honor the progress our nation has made. I agree—let’s build new, honorable statues in place of the disgraceful and deplorable ones of Confederates. Let’s remember the people who have laid the foundation for our country and done amazing things to build it up instead of the people who have tried to tear it down. A street in downtown Charlottesville is to be renamed Heather Hyer Way to honor Heyer’s death and her selfless actions to combat racism and hate. I think that’s a pretty good start.

Commentary

October 2017

Artwork by Mei Liu ‘20

14 The Voyager

The Voyager debates whether President Trump is right to criticize football players for taking a knee FOR TRUMP “100% agree with President Trump. Kneeling or raising a fist during our national anthem is extremely disrespectful to our country and the men and women who have fought for our freedom. Our president didn’t bring politics into football, the players who don’t stand did. We’re having this discussion because this is important to our country. Respecting our country is extremely important.” “I feel that the flag is a symbol of our nation, not our president. There’s a certain amount of respect due to our flag and the people who serve it.” “I believe that kneeling to a national anthem is disrespectful towards our nation. And in doing so, there should be consequences for that individual. The players who kneeled may have been showing their disrespect or hatred toward the president. But using the National Anthem, which represents the country and its citizens, was not right. They disrespected all citizens of the United States. I believe that kneeling to our anthem is a way of starting a civil dispute that may lead to something bigger in the future.” “If you kneel or sit out during the national anthem, you are a disgrace to your team, and most importantly, a disgrace to this country. You are disrespecting every fallen soldier, every veteran, and all of the founding fathers. After an idiotic move like that, don’t bother considering yourself an American. The people who kneel during the anthem are the same uneducated ones who burn the flag. If you hate America enough, go to a country with no rights, poverty, and food shortages. These ignorant people don’t realize how great America is. Ship them overseas. If someone did this in another country, they would be killed. Football players now brought politics into the most unifying things of our nation, which is sports.” “Take your opinions off the field because it is most certainly not the time or place for it. Most disturbingly, the NFL didn’t permit players to show solidarity for 9/11 victims or the Dallas Cowboys to honor the Dallas policeman that were brutally murdered. The left is only hurting their case when they play victim and are treated unequally. I’m certain that this is the other way around and they’re the ones dividing this country.” “I do believe that kneeling for the national anthem is extremely disrespectful. The United States is still our country, despite our leader. It’s times like these of such political division that we should stand united.”

ON THE 50 “Over many years, our ideas have shaped the country. President Trump’s statement to kneel during the pledge is another idea. When there is so much negative controversy surrounding Trump, any idea could be seen as negative. Growing up, I was always taught to stand for the flag, for everyone was doing it. To say that it is a certain right and I have a right to stand or not is wrong because students have gotten in trouble for not standing for the pledge. I stand neutral.” “Although I think the protest is disrespectful, I do believe that they have every right to participate in this protest. I think there are better ways to protest the racial prejudices many minorities experience in the legal system, but I recognize what players are trying to do.”

AGAINST TRUMP “It is completely heinous to believe that players should not be able to express their opinion. By doing this protest silently, it does not infringe upon the rights of anyone. If the voices of the players are not to be heard, then how are people to know their opinion? Players should be completely free to express their opinion, barring acts of violence. If players are not allowed to protest, people in the common citizenry will be less likely to protest.” “I disagree with Trump. Yes, that flag stands for all who fought for our country. However, it also now represents the injustice facing black people and people of other minorities today. It’s not a law to stand, and by kneeling, football players are only exercising their rights.” “I am against Trump’s views on the pledge since everyone has the right to protest anything they choose. Everyone that has protested during the pledge has a reason to whether it is social injustice or racial inequality.” “I totally disagree with what Trump said. The tone in which he made his comments was unacceptable for a man who has the title of president of the United States. As for the statement itself, “get that son of a b**** out of here, you’re fired”, what these players are doing is peaceful, thus making it constitutional. In no way are they harming anyone. Americans have the right to a peaceful protest, and the president shouldn’t be trying to take that away.” “I wholeheartedly disagree with Trump’s motives and morals regarding mass protests. When athletes are given a widened social platform in which their actions affect their entire audience, the most respected ones are the ones who use that to their ability. Athletes like Colin Kaepernick and LeBron James, outspoken in their direct beliefs, are the quintessence of hope for the violated subjects and races.” “In a country founded on freedom, people should be allowed to make their own choices and nor have to pay the price for it. Sitting kneeling, or raising your fists during the national anthem represents the freedom we have, and shows why the U.S.A. is the greatest country in the world.” “There is no law to pledge for the flag. We should not be able to force the pledge for a country that we don’t approve of. It is not okay to belittle players because they have different views of this country, good or not. Leaders are supposed to help reunite our nation, not get players fired because they disagree with you.”

October 2017

ISSUES

The Voyager 15

OPPOSING VIEWPOINTS ON DEFFERED ACTION FOR CHILDHOOD ARRIVALS Eastern grad now living in fear as DACA law debated

By RYAN EMS ‘19 Staff Reporter

resident Obama established DACA, the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals, in June 2012, to protect minors who were brought to America illegally. One of these minors enrolled in DACA is Rocio Ochoa Iglesias, a former Eastern student, who is now a freshman at Rutgers Camden studying psychology. Iglesias came to America when she was only five years old, speaking no English. “When I first went to kindergarten,” she said, “I didn’t know anything they were saying. My parents worked so much so they could buy us [a book] to learn English.” As Iglesias grew up, she forgot her old country of Mexico. She adopted America Rocio Ochoa Iglesias at a local ball as her homeland. game. In 2012, Iglesias’s parents found Photo supplied by Rocio Iglesias a lawyer in Trenton who helped her enroll in DACA. Iglesias was officially “It’s hard to manage school and work accepted into the program in 2014, and when you’re only seventeen, eighteen renewed her status in 2016. years old,” she said. “Sometimes, I For fourteen years, Iglesias has been wouldn’t even get any sleep.” living the American dream, but her future Iglesias says that Trump and his now seems uncertain. supporters don’t understand the struggle President Trump rescinded the DACA that she and thousands of others go policy on September 5th, 2017, putting through. Iglesias’s future in jeopardy. Trump When Donald Trump announced his delayed full rescission of DACA for six presidential candidacy on June 15th, months and tweeted “Congress, get ready 2015, he said, “When Mexico sends its to do your job - DACA!” people, they’re not sending their best. 800,000 people enrolled in DACA have They’re sending people that have lots been left in the crosshairs after Trump’s of problems, and they’re bringing those decision. problems with us. They’re bringing At Rutgers, Iglesias is trying to get drugs. They’re bringing crime. They’re her chancellor to approve a fundraiser rapists. And some, I assume, are good to benefit DACA students. Iglesias says people.” there are about ten DACA students at “It makes me feel really mad because Rutgers who need money to renew their that is not true. Anyone can be a criminal. status, which costs $495 per person. Anyone can be violent, and for him to “For most people, that’s nothing. say that towards us, it really makes me But for us, that’s a lot just to renew it,” mad. We come from a country [where] Iglesias said. the government is corrupt and we just She hopes to raise $5,000 to cover wanted to get out so we can have a better the costs of the ten DACA students at future and go to college and go to work Rutgers, along with raising awareness and have something better for our family. through social media. “A lot of people I see my parents, and we’ve got to the don’t know that their best friends [or] United States. We’ve been working hard, their neighbors are part of it,” she said. we’ve been doing the right things, we’ve Along with raising awareness, Iglesias never committed a crime, and for him to calls Congress three to five times a day to say that gets me so mad, that I don’t know protest Trump’s decision. what to do,” said Iglesias in response to Iglesias doesn’t understand why Trump Donald Trump’s remarks. is rescinding the DACA policy. She Later on the campaign trail, Trump said, said that most immigrants are coming “It has not been easy for me … my father to America gave me a to escape small loan their corrupt of a million governments; dollars.” they are just “We’re all just humans, Iglesias also hard working trying to escape the worst,” found fault people that with this she said. “We just want the c o m m e n t . want the best for “We came best.” themselves here having and their no money,” families. she said, “not To many, even one students like dollar. We had to come here, we had to Iglesias exemplify the hard-working learn, we had to work for really, really American. During her junior year of low pay, so we [could] get ourselves back high school, her parents opened up a up. He just doesn’t know the struggle. Mexican restaurant called Taqueria la Everybody is an immigrant in the United Villita in Lindenwold, New Jersey. To States or came from immigrant families,” help support her parents, she worked she said. many late hours at the restaurant, often “We’re all just humans, trying to escape prioritizing work over school. the worst. We just want the best.”

Illegal immigrants take away opportunities from American citizens people”, said Mr. Kennedy. The burden of cost continues. Illegal immigrant families cost approximately $8,075 per family member. The average he Deferred Action for Social Security retirement benefit is Childhood Arrivals, put $14,772, which means that an illegal into effect by the Obama immigrant receives $2,841 more than a Administration in June of working American for illegally crossing 2012, has recently been brought to the our borders and violating American forefront of discussion. The legislation principles and laws. Statistics also show essentially protects 800,000 young the cost for welfare benefits to households illegal immigrants from deportation, of immigrants, legal and illegal, as $103 assists them in getting jobs, and helps billion. We can’t possibly decrease our them enroll in school. President Trump national debt by spending billions every formally overturned this legislation in year on illegal immigrants, who are also early September of this year, which receiving thousands in welfare programs. follows his promise to put America first. Negative economic impacts are seen by To many this is a moral issue, however, Mr. Kennedy. the economic standpoint is rather “Where is the money going to come paramount. Taxpayers spend about $135 from to fund the school systems in billion on illegal immigrants each year, question? It’s going to increase the protecting them through programs like burden of proponent taxpayers, which DACA. States like California welcome is already a complaint. Somebody has to them by the thousands, although their pay for it bottom line,” he said local government can’t sustain the DACA is not a simple piece of influx of these immigrants. Some illegal legislation, nor is immigration a simple immigrants that enter the United States topic. Junior Shane Bakely favors under DACA immediately require stricter immigration laws, but he also government assistance such as food sees exceptions for DACA. stamps and welfare on a need basis. “DACA is different because it protects Part of this program is to assist these the children of these illegal immigrants. immigrants in getting a job if they aren’t This legislation is tricky because already employed. One issue with DACA technically it is illegal. Bottom line is if is the unfair job competition. Illegals get you’re here illegally, you’re supposed to working permits and receive things like leave. We should have sympathy for these valid Social Security numbers and IDs, children who can’t control their parents’ enabling them to become employed actions,” he in higher said. paying jobs. Dozens of The Work “The question that remains issues, like Opportunity in the mind of millions is social impact Tax Credit p a y s why an illegal immigrant of immigration, factor into this employers a should be instantly provided discussion. federal tax and cared for before our “It’s credit of up something seen to $9,600 veterans and legal American through history for hiring citizens.” when there’s employees large numbers who have of immigrants, been on there’s concern of the degree that they welfare. 51% of immigrant households, can assimilate and embrace the language, legal and illegal, have been and are culture, and heritage of our nation. currently registered in a welfare program, The concern that some have is that the compared to 30% of native households. assimilation of these illegal immigrants. Depending on the business or company, “One wonders about the stability of the an illegal immigrant, in most cases with nation and the economy if it’s going to little education and poor English, can get be moving into a new, multilingual, and hired over an American citizen. multicultural era”, said Mr. Kennedy. The question that remains in the “The issue of illegal immigration has mind of millions is why an illegal been around for thirty years. The first immigrant should be instantly provided time it was ever a political matter was and cared for before our veterans and in the 1970’s and has been a matter legal American citizens. We can hardly that both Democrat and Republican take care of our own veterans but we’re administrations have both contended supposed to put illegals first? If we with and sadly, everyone keeps kicking don’t help illegal immigrants we are the ball down the road.” considered racist, cold hearted, and non When it comes to immigration, all American. That’s evident within the Americans, Republican and Democrat, “DREAMer’s” protests. By rescinding are sympathetic. However, fair play and DACA, President Trump is essentially rules factor heavily in the discussion upholding the constitution. America is of immigration, as they should. “It’s about equal opportunity, and DACA remarkable that [Sen. Chuck] Schumer does not give American citizens that. keeps talking about putting people in It’s also a disadvantage to immigrants jail for five years for trespassing on who abide by the rules. landmarks. He wants to make that a “When you want to enter this country, federal offense, but yet in Schumer’s you have to demonstrate competence, world and in the Democratic world, people wait 5-7 years to get into this when you trespass in America, you’ve country. If we have a rule of law, we need earned a path to citizenship,” stated to enforce it so that it’s fair for everyone. Michael Cutler on “Unfiltered”. Illegals are disregarding the process put in place and the will of the American By JESSICA BONAMASSA ‘19 News Editor

Entertainment Hayley’s Corner: Why Dinosaurs Matter

16 The Voyager

By HAYLEY BELUCH ‘18 Editor In Chief inosaurs matter, not as an extinct clade, nor as a colloquialism referring to inflexibility, and not just as a staple for childhood. Dinosaurs matter, as Kenneth Lacovara argues in his new book Why Dinosaurs Matter, because dinosaurs represent the quintessence of adaptability and answer curiosities we face today. The future lies in the past, and the dinosaurs are the vehicle for such transference. This book, an in-depth exploration of the history of dinosaurs and the emergence of the term fossils (and subsequently paleontology), specifically gives credit to the enumerable contingencies that allowed for the 165 million year reign of reptilian beasts. Lacovara addresses the fossil record in such a way that makes readers re-evaluate their insignificance within the boundaries (or rather, lack thereof) of deep time. More time divides Stegosaurus and T. rex than does humans today and T. rex. With anecdotes and quite a few genuinely surprising facts, this book encourages readers to reexplore dinomania in an intellectual light. Lacovara rejects the validity of children’s views of dinosaurs. Specifically addressing titanic sauropods, he re molds their image from one of gentle giants to territorial ferocity. Touching on Darwin, catastrophism, and the awakening of evolutionist views, Lacovara is able to paint a clear picture of the dinosaur timeline’s extent into modern understanding. He presents a potent argument (a rant, really) explaining why dinosaurs should not be synonymous with evolutionary failure. Tackling modern misconceptions of the beast, the book unwinds and rebuilds readers’ views on the titanic reptiles. With a topic quite often only understood in the context of early age and childhood, Why Dinosaurs Matter translates the incongruities within childhood fascination with these creatures into an intellectual argument on the efficacy and preeminence of those nested within the

October 2017

grouping of Dinosauria. He even touches upon the parallels between dinosaurs (and their extinction) and earthly issues humans face today - especially climate change. Lacovara even describes his own paleontology breakthrough in vivid detail - delineating his discovery of the giant Dreadnoughtus in the frigidity of Patagonia. He accomplishes such with sophisticated prose reminiscent of fiction, rather than scientific jargon. The book has a mild structure and narration equivalent to a scholarly conversation, rendering it easy to follow yet spotted with little-known facts. The unique topic this book covers, paired with the artistic style with which the author presents it, renders it a worthwhile read that almost every person with any recognition of dinosaurs can relate to. From arguing that penguins are dinosaurs to explaining the fossil seller that the famous “she sells sea shells by the sea shore” describes, this book successfully draws readers in with an enlightening and satisfying read in more depth than any childhood understanding could boast.

Great Songs for October “Too Good To Say Goodbye” by Bruno Mars: Warning, this song may cause tears. This song is guaranteed to tug at your heartstrings. If you’re going through any relationship problems, this song is not recommended. The song is apart of Bruno’s newest album, 24K Magic. The whole album is a mix of old school R&B dance music and just feel good songs. Be sure to check out the rest of his album, you will not be disappointed.

“Would You Be So Kind?” by Dodie Although this song is almost a year old now it still isn’t well known enough. The perfect song for a late night drive with your significant other, this song will put you in your feels. While you’re checking this one out, be sure to listen to some of Dodie’s other music!

What’s on Your Nightstand?

I just read “All the Missing Girls” by Megan Miranda. It was rather suspenseful, but with a twist… the story takes place in reverse. Great read! I am currently reading “Helter Skelter” by Vincent Bugliosi. I have been recently interest in true crime books, and I think the Manson murders, the time period and the sway that Manson had over his family is kind of fascinating. -Teresa Porrini, Social Studies

I had tears in my eyes this morning over my English muffin and oatmeal. I’m on the last few pages of “Henry David Thoreau: A Life” by Laura Walls. He’s dying of tubercoluis in the dark days of the Civil War. The Union is losing. He can longer write and take walks, but he keeps up his humor with his friends who have come to say goodbye. I love this man, the man who largely started the environmental movement in the United States. When you spend 500 pages with someone, it’s hard to say goodbye. - Walter Bowne, English

Stranger Things Set in the 80’s, this TV series is perfect for those who love a bit of scary and science fiction to get into the Halloween spirit. One of the main characters, 12 year old Will goes missing, and an investigation is put into effect. Following the disappearance, three of Will’s best friends unravel supernatural occurrences taking place when a mysterious young girl shows up out of the blue. -Gabrielle Gilham ‘18 The Confession Tapes For those who love true crime shows, The Confession Tapes is the show for you. Based off of real stories, people explain why they confessed to murders they didn’t commit. The documentarystyle show keeps you on your toes and teaches you not to believe everything you hear. -Ava Hancock ‘20 Friday Night Lights Do you like sports with a good side story? Then this is the show for you. The show is about a football team who loses their starting quarterback in the first game to a horrific injury. The backup quarterback is now pressed into duty and tries to get the team back to the state championship game. The team has a lot of off field drama that gives the show a great plot. -Matt Steinsaltz ‘20 The Flash I finally got into the show and I binge watched all three seasons. This show is filled with action, and the drama is second to none. The audience never knows what challenge is coming next. The show presents a constant flow of new characters and villains that keeps the shown interesting. The show does a good job of showing that the Flash has weaknesses, and this makes it more realistic and believable. Season four should not disappoint.- Ryan Ems ‘19 Hemlock Grove Hemlock Grove is for horror movie lovers everywhere. It follows a small town dealing with a series of murders, from a mysterious animalistic source. The show, set off from the books by Brian McGreevy, takes place in Hemlock Grove where there is a split between those living in poverty and those who are extremely wealthy, but the town is full of secrets, filling the show with unexpected twists and turns. Gore warning! - Hayley Bricker ‘18 American Horror Story Do you find fun in frights? If you love Supernatural or The Walking Dead, you’ll love American Horror Story. With a new theme every season and some award winning actors, it’s sure to keep you interested and possibly afraid of the dark. -Victoria Lapinson ‘21 Dark Matter For all sci-fi lovers or even those who have a love for a dystopian universe. The show starts off with 6 members on a spaceship who’ve lost their memories. As they go on an adventure trying to find who they once were, they encounter more enemies than allies. Without their memory, they don’t know why they are wanted by the police, how the Prince got banished, or how a member will find a way to save his wife. In the midst of all this, there is a three way war going on. - Jordan Lewis ‘19 Grey’s Anatomy Grey’s Anatomy is for the future doctors of Eastern who are not afraid to shed a few tears. Following a young surgical intern and her twisty life at Seattle Grace Hospital, this show will leave your emotions needing surgery. Currently on its fourteenth season, this is a show that cannot be missed. - Bryce Dershem ‘21 Neo Yokio If you watch anime, you’ll love Neo Yokio. The new show is full of celebrity voices, including Jaden Smith and Susan Sarandon. Focusing on protagonist Kaz Kaan as he navigates fighting demons and high society, the first 6 episodes of Neo Yokio will amuse and captivate you with crude humor and action packed fight scenes. The American-Japanese animated series starts off short, but with gaining popularity, there will be more to come. -Aliyah El-Muhammad ‘18

Entertainment

October 2017

The Voyager 17

Let the music transform you: a festival experience By NANCY BOWNE ‘19 Copy Editor

weat and the reverb from the subwoofers drench my ears as I look on towards the arena in Camden’s Wiggins Park. It is late July. The sun shines brightly across Philadelphia and Ben Franklin Bridge. The Xponential Music Festival held all the possible excitement. This was my first festival, and my, was it a festival to remember. After watching the first gig, Pinegrove, I knew that the beat of the music would be eternal beyond Sunday. Everyone should attend music festivals. There, you lose all sense of hunger, sleep, and society. There, you just focus on the raw beauty of the music. There, you hear those who have heard all your life, or those you have just met. At first, bands like Wilco, Spoon, and Conor Oberst from Bright Eyes, motivated me to attend the XPN Festival. As a sixteen year old, I had never been to a concert, unless you count a Beatles cover band at Barclay Farms or The Celtic Festival in Quebec City. The Camden festival was a time I needed to experience this music in the raw form. It was a musical pilgrimage. The music festival lasted three days. I went with a couple of friends who also shared my taste in the music. There were bands there ranging from a three sister folk band from Oregon, Jospeh, to a full on seven person jazz band, Preservation Hall Jazz Band. When we first walked in, we got our wristbands and eagerly plotted our day’s agenda. Friday’s meet and greets got cancelled due to impending rain. The people there were with their freebies and infinite Grateful dead shirts. Ice cream samples were my diet, as well as the cucumbers scrunched in my purse. We came prepared with towels and a plastic spoon for the Spoon concert for Saturday.

Nancy enjoying the music festival.

Nancy Bowne ‘19

(Not even my puns cease for music.) These voices had filled my earliest childhood memories, now transcending throughout my present life. And I still get all the feels. I was lost in a state of elation and shock, with the lights and subwoofers. It was during Wilco’s Friday night concert, during “I’m Trying to Break your Heart” when I realized the beauty of interpretation in a concert. Many musicians improvise during concerts, allowing the audience to hear an original variety of the song. I suggest everyone to embrace the concert experience. We all have our bands that we enjoy listening to repeat while studying or even taking long drives. Yet we can truly enjoy and see the music played in front of us with those who think as we do. New voices and faces hit my Spotify playlists and YouTube searches. I met that person, I shook their hand. The new and old faces that bring us together in something called a music festival. What beauty. All the smells of sweat and the

Concert goers gather at Wiggins Park, Camden, for the three day musical festival. Nancy Bowne ‘19 nasty, occasional marijuana, the sights of sun pierced leaves and beach chairs piled inside the mosh pits, everyone shaking their heads and bopping around. It comes naturally, because I do not feel myself moving, except for my heart and the sound waves dancing right to the brim of my baseball cap. Sunscreen creases my clothing, but the

spirit increases as the people gather for the music.

Like to contribute to The Voyager? Send us your material to ehsvoyager@ gmail.com

Musical angst or brilliant protest songs? The band, Crown the Empire, cause an uproar with their “stick it to the man” music. Is this seen as musical angst or protest songs? By HAYLEY BRICKER ‘18 Staff Reporter

here are songs in today’s music scene that challenge authority, that in an essence, “stick it to the man,” but the American based rock band, Crown the Empire, are taking protest songs to an entirely new level. Their album, “The Resistance: Rise Of The Runaways” released in 2014 tells the hauntingly beautiful tale of a world at war and the resistance fighting for their own freedom as a metaphor and reference to the turmoil the real world resides in. The album tells a story from the first track all the way to the end, that progresses from a small spark of a revolution to a full fledged bloodbath and beyond. In the first track titled, “Call To Arms (Act i), the first thirty seconds of the song a voice comes over speaking, “You have all been a consequence of the disease known as freedom, / And now it is time

to take that freedom away! / As of today, you will be stripped of your identity / And anything you hold dear in life / For it is your individuality that has led to your destruction. / Your children will be left to rot as punishment for your indiscretion / And the lives you have lived until now will be nothing but a memory. / This is for the survival of the race! / This is for the New Fallout! / This is the end!”. Heavy. These lines spin the tale of tyranny among citizens and a leader deciding that freedom is a disease rather than a privilege. Said tyrant assumes that the only way to regain control over the people for their actions is to lock them into this totalitarian regime, legitimately stripping the once thriving people of their freedoms. The songs ends with a call to arms of those who will not stand for the tyranny they are being placed under with the lines, “ For my fallen stars, / Bannermen ready for your call to arms” as the ultimate call to regain freedom. After the “Initiation” and some reminiscing about the old days through a song called, “Millennia”, the album lands on track four titled “Machines”. “Machines” poses the age old question through an existential format pondering

the very fabric of humanity—is a life like this really worth living if people do not live it freely? The first few opening lines state, “Insisting that we’re all too tired to light the fire / And shake the earth”, meaning that everyone is too tired to fight for what they really want to happen, sounds familiar. The song continues on but shifts to a more motivational setting, insisting that they need to “break free from these chains” and make a change no matter the cost, that if they are really just cogs inside the machine that they will be the cogs “Inside the wheels of change” pushing

forward to a new tomorrow. Songs are more than just words, just like movies are more than just moving pictures. They dive deeper, talk about the taboo. They transgress the normal and talk about issues needed to be touched upon that were left from the sun. They bring to light the injustices of the world and how if change is going to be made it need to be done. Making a difference is a job not done sitting but rather fighting. The citizens of today need to use the fuel from the protest songs and really become “ the wheels of change” if anything is ever going to get any better.

Crown the Empire performs at a music festival

Supplied by Wikipedia Commons.

Sports

18 The Voyager

‘Heading’ into the playoffs

October 2017

Varner keeps on striking playing,” he said. Thirteen years later, he is lighting it up for the scarlet and blue. For the junior striker, playing soccer for Eastern is a great experience. He gets to do what he loves most alongside his friends. Varner models his game after Brazilian striker Philippe Coutinho. “He is small like me and he plays for my favorite team [Liverpool],” said Varner. After his playing days are done at Eastern, Phil hopes to play college soccer, but is not banking on it. If soccer doesn’t work out, he plans to focus on his education in college, but is unsure what he wants to major in. Phil hopes to keep up the pace and lead Eastern to the playoffs again.

By MATT STEINSALTZ ‘20 Voyager Staff Reporter

“Y

ou miss 100% of the shots you don’t take.” That’s the motto second year varsity soccer striker, Phil Varner, plays by. Varner is off to a flaming hot start.. The junior has opened up the year with eleven goals and five assists in the eighteen games. He is leading the Eastern Boys Soccer Team to an 10-5-3 start to the season. That record puts them in third in the Olympic Conference. Varner first started playing soccer at the age of three. “My whole family played so I started

Senior goalkeeper Mikayla Ronczka punches away a cross in a match against Shawnee. Photo by Nikkita Hovell they’re pretty comfortable playyour family. It can make a huge By ANTHONY ing on the field,” Farnsworth difference.” CUTRERA ‘19 said. Along with Farnsworth and Sports Editor Being comfortable on the field Tiernan, the team is led by a is an understatement for freshf you haven’t heard by strong group of players includman forward Riley Tiernan, now, the Eastern Girls ing Madison Tyree, Mikayla who is one of the team’s leadSoccer Team has been Ronczka, Ashley Pietrafitta, ing scorers. “I would have to say doing well—very well. Sara Brocious, Kelli McGroarty, that my teammates have played At a record of 18-0 the girls are and Nicolette Scarduzio just to the biggest role in my success...I lighting up the field and show no name a few. am very close with them and I signs of slowing down. The girls are looking to keep think having good chemistry For head coach Jamie McGroup the great work they have had with your teammates makes a arty, winning is nothing new. in the regular season and transhuge difference as a team,” said In his twenty sixth year coachfer it into a playoff run. “I can Tiernan on her outstanding seaing (fifteenth year at Eastern), see us getting very far and hopeson so far. Coach McGroarty holds a refully making the SJ Final again Although Tiernan is still in cord of 405-107-44. His unas long as we keep working hard her first months of high school, defeated Vikings sit atop the and playing with heart,” said she has already committed to Olympic Conference and hope Farnsworth. Rutgers University on a soccer to keep their win streak going Coach McGroarty also has scholarship. Riley had a lot to for as long as they can. confidence in his team as he statjustify her decision to commit According the senior captain ed “If we stay healthy, improve to Rutgers as she said “My sister Amanda Farnsworth, the team’s our chemistry, and get some went there and she had a good success can be credited to worklucky bounces, we could be a experience academically and ing together and building up threat to win a sectional title and athletically. I also really want to their team chemistry more and beyond.” stay in Jersey because it’s where more each day. “We have pasta Hopefully the girls can keep all my family is. I think it’s reparties mostly before every up the great work and cap their ally important to stay close to game. And we’ve gotten really season off with a playoff push. home and have the support of close with the freshmen too, so

500th win for EBS By NICK RAY ‘18 Staff Reporter

eading into the long-awaited 2017 soccer season, Eastern Boys Soccer was on the brink of remarkable history with a combined win total of 499 over its 46year existence. It’s quite an understatement to label Eastern’s athletic program as a dominant force in the Olympic conference, and with a well-validated boys soccer program, the 500th win milestone was simply a fraction of Eastern’s potential success in the upcoming season. “It’s exciting,” said senior Alex Serata, “to have such a historical feat in the palm of your hands, and it’s even more exciting to execute the goal we had set.” Serata comes off the bench for the Eastern Vikings in well-rounded fashion, being just one of several key pieces vital to

his team’s success. Coming off a monstrous 13-5-1 season in 2016, the Vikings’ record currently sits at 10-5-3. Eastern is quickly and quietly becoming the powerhouse of their division behind head coach Steve Kosyla, a former soccer player at Eastern decades ago. “It’s something they achieved while they were at Eastern High School,” Kosyla said as he spoke on the potential future reminiscence of these 2017 Vikings. “Twenty years from now, they can sit back at the class reunion and say, ‘Oh yeah, remember when we played on that team and we got the 500th win’.” Coach Kosyla made it clear that such a milestone is to be recognized completely in opposition to the popular belief that it may draw attention away from future contests during the season. Five hundred

Phil dribbles up the pitch, looking to score again.

TJ Franden carries the day

Franden carries half of the Pennsauken defense on his back en route to a 40-28 Eastern victory. Photo by Nikkita Hovell

Terrell Collins and Geoff Brandt celebrate after a goal. Photo by Nikkita Hovell total victories in any sport is nothing other than an absurdity unmatched by most South Jersey athletic programs, and it’s certainly not an accomplishment to go unnoticed. In the same sense, the notable 500th win only counts for one regarding the chase for the lead spot in the conference, and as glorified as they may be, the Vikings are ready to put away the short-lived celebration and maximize their potential moving forward this season.

Photo by Nikkita Hovell

By ANTHONY CUTRERA ‘19 Sports Editor

f you have been to an Eastern football game this year, you have probably heard the announcer call TJ Franden’s name. Franden has been all over the field on offense, defense, and special teams; number 29 rarely, if ever, leaves the field. Franden has given coaches every reason to keep him on the field as he has been a beast defensively while also scoring seven touchdowns offensively. In his tenth year playing football, Franden is a standout player on a currently 5-2 team. Franden’s success has been found through hard work and his passion for the game. “I’ve just tried to go 100 miles per hour and put in a lot of work in the off season,” Franden said. Franden is not only a football

player but also wrestles, and said that his wrestling background helps him a lot with his positioning. It is no question as to whether the combination of skill and hardwork has payed off this year for Franden. Franden has big plans for the future as he hopes to play college football one day. However, Franden isn’t overlooking the fantastic season Eastern is currently having. He sees a bright future for the team as he said “We have the capability to do things people wouldn’t imagine us doing. If we play every quarter as mental-mistake-free as possible, we’ll do great things. Right now, it doesn’t matter who scores or how pretty it looks, so long as we keep grinding and finish.” Franden is currently playing with a cast on as he recently had surgery on his thumb. Hopefully Franden and the rest of the team can keep their great season going.

Sports

October 2017

Small, but powerful

The Voyager 19

Freshman Anastasia Lukasheva makes her mark, hopes to study and play at Cornell By Evelyn Steele ‘21 Voyager Staff Reporter

s Eastern’s varsity field hockey team takes the field, a single freshman trails behind. The players tower over her, but her small size will mislead you. She might be small compared to the girls next to her, but when she has the ball, you’d better watch your back. The whistle blows and the second half starts. The girls yell to one another “through!” and the ball is quickly passed. The whistle blows as the ball hits the back of the goal. The scoreboard changes to 12-0 as the girls praise their teammates. Eastern’s field hockey team has been undefeated for 18 straight years. Anastasia Lukasheva is the only freshman that plays at the varsity level when it comes to field hockey. She plays midfield and wears the number 4 proudly on her back.

Anastasia has been playing field hockey since 5th grade, previously playing soccer, lacrosse, and doing ballet. As she said, “I tried to play soccer for a while, but it just wasn’t my sport. As soon as I started playing field hockey, something just clicked. I just loved being on the field.” When she’s not on the field, she enjoys the subject of math because she likes improving, and using Anastasia Lukasheva prepares a pass for a teammate. Photo by Nikkita Hovell. her previous mistakes to enhance her skills. She said my life and I love that.” She hopes to one for VMS where she was the team captain it was hard keeping up with her grades day complete college at Cornell, because and received the MVP award. and sports at first, but getting adapted of its excellence in the engineering field. Anastasia advised to upcoming freshand organized helped. “Playing in the varsity games is a learnman players: “Always be confident and When she has a break from giving it ing experience because my teammates proud when you play. Don’t let people her all on the field, she likes to read scialways help me out. I prefer the varsity bring you down or tell you you’re not ence fiction. “Opening a book gives me games because they help me improve” good enough, because you are and you a break from whatever is happening in Anastasia stated. Last year she played need to be confident in that.”

Jessica Maute makes an impact on, off ﬁeld By ERIC HORN ‘19 Sports Editor

In addition to the scholarship, Maute has accomplished some memorable feats at Eastern. “My greatest accomplishment is being apart of the varsity team since my freshman year and continuing the tradition by winning state championships each year I’ve been a part of the team and continuing to be a part of the Eastern Field Hockey legacy.” However, this hasn’t been easy for Maute and her teammates. As she said, “Knowing the pressure to keep winning to keep the tradition sometimes might be tiring, but I know I have to keep working for my team. Nothing is a given, so I know the expectation is to always work hard in everything I do.” Maute feels that her experiences playing ﬁeld hockey have made her a better person as a whole. “I wouldn’t be who I am today if I didn’t play ﬁeld hockey. It has shaped me into an all

around better person on and off of the field and I have also made many close friends throughout the years.” Although field hockey is a priority in Maute’s life, something most people don’t know is that she has a calling to help the elderly. Once she is finished at Saint Joseph’s, she hopes to pursue a career in nursing or physical therapy to answer that calling. As she plays through her final season here at Eastern, Jessica Maute undoubtedly would like to build on the legacy she has helped create by adding another state title to the Eastern Field Hockey trophy case. Although she will be missed by her teammates as her Eastern career ends, the memories and legacy will live forever as she ventures out to make her mark on the world, through field hockey, helping others, or something else.

veryone knows about the continued success of the varsity field hockey team in recent years, but not everyone knows about the individuals that have brought that success. One senior who has taken a leadership role on the team is Jessica Maute, whose talent on the field and personality off the field has been an asset to all of her teammates and coaches. According to Maute, this relationship goes both ways: “[Coaches and teammates] taught me good work ethic and always pushed me to give my best. Coach Heilig had a big impact on teaching us to be respectful even out of field hockey season during school. Also, I never want to let my teammates or coaches down.” Field hockey hasn’t just been important to Maute during her high school years; it’s been a major part of her life since she was a girl. “My older cousins played and I wanted to follow in their footsteps,” said Maute, “And it was always a dream of mine to play for Eastern Field Hockey.” She doesn’t anticipate this to change in the near future as she has received a scholarship from Saint Joseph’s University to play field hockJessica Maute drives up the field, ready to score. ey.

Gianna Perrone, Ms. Marshall, Coach Heck and Helig look on the ﬁeld. Photo by Nikkita Hovell

Great Additions to the Field Hockey Coaching Staff Coach Heck and Coach Perrone By JULIA DODD ‘19 Managing Editor

Photo by Nikkita Hovell

erry Heck, the new JV field hockey coach, attended James Madison College in East Lansing Michigan for Health and PE (Physical Education). This year, 2017, is her 16th year teaching Health and PE at Eastern High School. Before Eastern, Mrs. Heck taught at Woodbury and Northeast Catholic. She started playing field hockey in ninth grade and has “loved the game” ever since. She played field hockey in high school along with basketball and softball. In college she continued with field hockey and started to play lacrosse. During college, she started to coach other field hockey teams. “I love the game,” she said, “and I love being able to coach other girls into loving it too.” She

started with Merrion Academy. Then to Saint Joseph’s University. She stopped coaching for schools and moved to field hockey leagues. She coached Futures and rec field hockey. Now, she is the JV coach for Eastern’s field hockey. She took the coaching job because, “It was available and she loved the opportunity to encourage and teach other in the game.” Gianna Perrone, the new assistant field hockey coach, is an alumnus of Eastern High School. She attended The University of Louisville in Kentucky. She played field hockey in high school as well as lacrosse. She continued with field hockey in college as a left back. She started coaching club teams in college, and now that she has graduated she has come back to Eastern to help coach. She said, “I wanted to give back to the program that gave so much to

Sports

20 The Voyager

Eastern’s Venus Williams By HAYLEY BRICKER ‘18 Staff Reporter Bryn Caren, senior, is a seasoned varsity tennis player for the Eastern Girls Tennis Team, winning awards such as USTA regional tournament at Moorestown Tennis Club as well as many victories for home here at Eastern. For Bryn tennis is a critical aspect of who she is as a person, and the feeling of playing is like no other for her. She enjoys how “personal” the sport can be. “I enjoy being able to individually guide my own success. With tennis, I am able to do that,

while still contributing as part of a team of other players that enjoy the same game, and strive toward our overall success,”said Bryn. Bryn has been fortunate enough to really get some beneficial skills not only on the court but also off. “From tennis, I have been taught what it takes to be a well-rounded individual, and to be honest.” Bryn has allowed her years of tennis playing to mold her as a young student athlete but Tennis was not the first sport she played. “I began, like most young children, testing out a variety of games, on numerous local

Bryn Caren hits the ball with a backhand shot. Photo by Nikkita Hovell

teams. Not wanting to take tennis lessons even at my parent’s suggestion, the day came where I did not have much of a choice. Starting at the age of nine, I had my very first lesson with Coach Omar, with whom I continue to hit with on a weekly basis.” Yet Bryn says if tennis was not an option, she would enjoy playing golf because like tennis, it allows her to be in full control over whether she wins or loses, allowing the full deck of cards to be in her hands. Like many teams at Eastern, the sense of comradery is strongly flowing within members of a team. Bryn has been a member of the tennis team here at Eastern for four years and has shown great dedication to the sport. She has inspired others and was a role model for the underclassman players. Tennis has affected Bryn positively on the court just as it has off court and inside the classroom. Bryn is involved in numerous clubs as she is an officer for both DECA Club and Key Club, a member of the Spanish Honor Society, and a general member of other service clubs. With her numerous activities and load of school work, Bryn’s schedule is packed to the brim. This student athlete unfortunately is closing in on her time here at Eastern with the tennis season soon to be over, but Bryn is thankful for her time spent on the team and will always cherish the memories and friendships made here at Eastern, but will continue to play, just not as competitively in her college days quickly approaching on the horizon.

October 2017

Bianca Gennaoui and Renali Patel take a break from the court. Photo by Hayley Beluch ‘18

Looking for some ‘love’ Senior caption talks tennis and career By CAMERON DAVIS ‘19 Staff Reporter Senior captain Bianca Gennaoui leads the tennis team. She started playing tennis five years ago and has taken herself to a new level by competing with the school’s tennis team. After the first eight games, Bianca cited Bishop Eustace as the hardest opponent so far. Bianca also mentioned the rigorous daily practice routine that has helped the tennis team. “Not only are we good at the actual game,” she said, “but we’ve bonded more as a team which has helped us move a lot farther as well.” Though the team is enjoying the success they’ve found this year, the winning season adds more pressure than they’re used to. “Now that we know we can win it’s intimidating,” she said. She didn’t mention any personal struggle with balancing schoolwork and tennis. However, some players have found tennis a slight obstacle in front of school work. Bianca criticized the lack of attention the tennis team gets considering it’s consistent success. “This year is better than years in the past but we’re still not recognized enough,” she said. When asked about what she planned to do after high school, Bianca mentioned her interest in studying pre-law or political science and eventually becoming a lawyer.

Strong start to a solid season Girls tennis jumped to a 10-0 start, but stumpled late in the season, against Vineland, Shawnee, and to tennis powerhouse, Cherry Hill East, twice. They ended 12-4. The record last year was 9-8. By Michael Carrington ‘19 Contributing Writer The Eastern Girls Tennis Team was off to an astonishing 10-0 start. If you were to tell the players that they would have such a superb start in the beginning of the season, they may crack a smile, but they probably would not be shocked. One variables is very apparent when searching for a reason of this early success. This reason was highlighted by one of Eastern’s talented and experienced seniors, Noor Abdelkader, who stated, “Our tennis team is definitely the best this year out of all my years since freshman year because most of our varsity players have had varsity experience and a few with 3+ years of varsity experience. We’re probably the most experienced var-

sity team in this area.” Junior star, Serena Patel, also responded by saying the experience is the key factor to the early success. Although experience is the prominent factor to such a high level of play for the Eastern Girls Tennis Team, there is also a hidden factor that you may have to read between the lines to fully find. This is the comradery between the players. Although the players love the game they seem to love their teammates more. Serena Patel said her favorite memory was senior day, which does not even involve playing but the quality time spent with her teammates. Abdelkader’s favorite memory was when Renali Patel, Joanne Lee, Noor Abdelkader, Bryn Caren, Serena Patel, Hayley Noor and her partner, Beluch, Alyssa Gross, Bianca Gennaoui, Lexi Levin Photo by Mr. Hill Renali Patel, became Olympic Conference slow down after they get off to a hot start, said “The players on varsity are taking Co-Champions with felbut the Eastern Girls Tennis Team seems the games seriously and know that every low teammates Jenna Bresalier and Lexi to only be getting better. Serena thinks game matters.” Levin. the team will improve by staying focused Many teams in various sports seem to