ECHO Winter & Spring 2025

Table of Contents Editor-in-Chief Hunter Maguire

Cover Art Amy Xiao World/National News (page 5) Lynn Yang, Editor Community/School News (page 11) Isabella Fuertes, Editor Reviews (page 14) Hunter Maguire, Editor-in-Chief Faculty Advisor Mr. McAuley

NOTE: The opinions expressed in the following articles do not represent the opinions of the administrative staff at GCHS, merely those of the writers themselves.

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A Note From the Editor Dar Readers, I’m ecstatic to be releasing ECHO’s second issue of the 2024-25 year for you all. Please enjoy these articles, written and edited entirely by Garden City’s young writers. From soccer to global politics to pop culture and literature, I hope you each find something that resonates with you and, in the process, learn something new from us and your fellow students.

I’m pleased to say our team of writers has grown from the fall, with all four grades wellrepresented as journalists in this issue. I urge any students reading to consider joining ECHO for our summer issue or during next school year.

Enjoy this issue and the remainder of Spring 2025.

Sincerely, Hunter Maguire Class of 2025

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WORLD/NATIONAL NEWS

Drone Strikes in the Russo-Ukrainian War

by Lynn Yang

Numerous shifts in tactics have been observed during the ongoing war between Ukraine and Russia, with both armies deploying different military technologies to gain an upper

been forced to adopt unconventional methods to defend itself. With increasing access to advanced weaponry and foreign military support from the United States and

Ukraine’s drone strikes on Russia have primarily targeted military and strategic infrastructure.

These have included attacks on airfields, ammunition depots, radar

hand.

Among the more recent and

European nations, Ukraine has begun using drones as a key

systems, and key logistical hubs —critical nodes that support

significant developments is the use of drones in combat, particularly drone strikes launched by Ukraine into Russian territory. These strikes,

part of its defense and offense strategy.

Drone strikes have allowed Ukraine to carry out attacks on Russian territory, bypass

Russia’s military operations in Ukraine. Drones have also been used to target Russia's power infrastructure, including power plants, substations, and

which

with

traditional defenses, and strike

electrical

increasing frequency, represent a new phase in the conflict— one where Ukraine is actively targeting Russian military and infrastructure sites using unmanned aerial vehicles.

deep within Russian borders.

These drone strikes, although often smaller in scale when compared with conventional missile or artillery attacks, have had symbolic and practical

disrupt both the military and civilian sectors of Russian society.

The drone strikes have significantly impacted Russia, both militarily and

Since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, the war has escalated dramatically, with devastating consequences for both countries. Ukraine, outmanned and outgunned by Russia's military might, has

impact on the conflict, signaling that Ukraine is capable of striking beyond its borders and putting pressure on Russia’s military command and control.

In contrast to numerous Russian assaults on Ukraine,

psychologically. Such strikes have disrupted Russian military operations by damaging key infrastructure, delaying resupply efforts, and forcing the Russian military to spread its own resources more thinly to

A map of Ukrainian aerial drone strikes on Russian targets.

Courtesy of BBC

A Russian warplane burns after being hit

by Ukrainian drones at Soltsy Airbase.

Courtesy of the Associated Press

have

occurred

A damaged apartment block in Voronezh, Russia.

Courtesy of PBS

grids,

aiming

to

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WORLD/NATIONAL NEWS

Drone Strikes in the Russo-Ukrainian War

by Lynn Yang

defend against this new threat.

Russia has had to increase its air defense capabilities along its western borders, particularly in regions like Belgorod, Voronezh, and Rostov Oblasts,

For Ukraine, drones provide a relatively cost-effective way to target Russia’s vulnerabilities.

Unlike traditional airstrikes or artillery bombardments, drones are a

Russian troop movements, detect supply convoys, and gather real-time data on Russian fortifications, which can be used to plan future operations.

This intelligence is vital for

which have been frequent targets. The drone strikes also

smaller upfront investment and are typically more difficult for

Ukraine’s enabling

represent a significant escalation in the conflict. While Ukraine has generally confined its military operations to its own borders, these strikes on

enemies to detect and intercept.

Drones can be launched from Ukrainian soil or from behind frontlines, allowing Ukrainian forces to remain relatively

targeting of Russian weaknesses.

As the war continues to evolve, drone warfare is likely to play an even larger role in

Russian territory could lead to

anonymous while, at the same

future

further escalation, with Russia potentially responding with more aggressive tactics or even expanding the scope of the conflict.

Additionally, it remains to be seen whether

time, inflicting damage on Russian targets. Furthermore, drones can be used to shepherd in a more decentralized attack strategy, making it harder for Russia to defend against

ability to develop, deploy, and effectively use drones gives it a unique advantage in asymmetric warfare, allowing it to hit Russia in ways that were previously unimaginable. While

these strikes provoke international condemnation, though they have attracted considerable support from nations sympathetic to Ukraine’s plight.

multiple strikes simultaneously.

Drones have also helped Ukraine in its intelligencegathering efforts. By using drones for surveillance, Ukrainian forces can track

the strikes have so far been mostly concentrated on military targets, their impact on Russian civilians and military personnel could shift the course of the war.

overall more

operations.

strategy, effective

Ukraine’s

Aftermath of a Ukrainian strike on a residential tower in Kazan, central Russia.

Courtesy of Reuters

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WORLD/NATIONAL NEWS

Grammys 2025 - In Recap

by Alice Oustatcher

February 2nd was an exciting night for TVwatchers and music enthusiasts across the nation, as the winners of the Grammy Awards were to be announced at a star-studded ceremony in Los Angeles, California.

Beyoncé finally won the highly sought

Comedian Trevor Noah, once the host of "The Daily Show," made a return as the ceremony's host for the fifth consecutive year.

Eilish, Roan, Charli XCX, and Carpenter all gave acclaimed performances, in addition to a surprise guest appearance by The Weeknd,

Album of the Year award at the 2025 Grammys (after being overlooked the previous four times

ending his longtime boycott of the awards show he previously deemed "corrupt."

Taylor Swift did not perform this year, but awarded the Best Country Album to Beyoncé.

she was nominated). Beyoncé entered into the evening with the record number of nominations, 11, for her album "Cowboy Carter" — setting a record as the most nominated artist in Grammy history (with 99 throughout her career). In addition to Album of the Year, she took home Best Country Album and Best Country Duo/Group Performance.

Billie Eilish, Kendrick Lamar, Post Malone, and Charli XCX were nominated for seven awards this year, as were Taylor Swift, Sabrina Carpenter, and Chappell Roan. Lamar took all

Apart from honoring the music industry's most prestigious awards, this year's show also highlighted the catastrophic fires that consumed areas of Los Angeles, the show’s home city, and took at least 29 lives. During the telecast, Noah continuously exhorted viewers as well as corporate sponsors to give to relief

five categories in which he was nominated, nabbing Record and Song of the Year awards.

Roan also emerged as a winner of the night, scooping the Best New Artist award.

organizations, and entrepreneurs who lost real estate in the fires were interviewed on the air. A Los Angeles County firefighter group was called to the stage to give away the final award of the evening and was warmly received by the audience with a standing ovation.

Keep reading for a complete list of winners.

Beyoncé receiving Album of the Year.

Courtesy of GRAMMY

Kendrick Lamar pictured with his awards from the night.

Courtesy of GRAMMY

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WORLD/NATIONAL NEWS

Grammys 2025 - In Recap

by Alice Oustatcher

Album of the Year New Blue Sun - André 3000 COWBOY CARTER - Beyoncé (WINNER) Short n' Sweet - Sabrina Carpenter BRAT - Charli xcX Djesse Vol. 4 - Jacob Collier

Song of the Year "A Bar Song (Tipsy)" - Sean Cook, Jerrel Jones, Joe Kent, Chibueze Collins Obinna, Nevin Sastry & Mark Williams, songwriters (Shaboozey) "BIRDS OF A FEATHER" - Billie Eilish

HIT ME HARD AND SOFT - Billie Eilish The Rise and Fall of a Midwest Princess -

O'Connell & Finneas O'Connell, songwriters (Billie Eilish) "Die With a Smile" - Dernst "D'Mile" Emile Il, James Fauntleroy, Lady Gaga, Bruno Mars &

Chappell Roan THE TORTURED POETS DEPARTMENT Taylor Swift Record of the Year "Now And Then" - The Beatles "TEXAS HOLD 'EM" - Beyoncé "Espresso" - Sabrina Carpenter "360" - Charli xcx "BIRDS OF A FEATHER" - Billie Eilish "Not Like Us" - Kendrick Lamar (WINNER) "Good Luck, Babe!" - Chappell Roan "Fortnight" - Taylor Swift Featuring Post Malone Best New Artist Benson Boone Sabrina Carpenter Doechii Khruangbin RAYE Chappell Roan (WINNER) Shaboozey Teddy Swims

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Andrew Watt, songwriters (Lady Gaga & Bruno Mars) "Fortnight" - Jack Antonoff, Austin Post & Taylor Swift, songwriters (Taylor Swift, Featuring Post Malone) "Good Luck, Babe!" - Kayleigh Rose Amstutz, Daniel Nigro & Justin Tranter, songwriters (Chappell Roan) "Not Like Us" - Kendrick Lamar, songwriter (Kendrick Lamar) (WINNER) "Please Please Please" - Amy Allen, Jack Antonoff & Sabrina Carpenter, songwriters (Sabrina Carpenter) "TEXAS HOLD 'EM" - Brian Bates, Beyoncé, Elizabeth Lowell Boland, Megan Bülow, Nate Ferraro & Raphael Saadiq, songwriters (Beyoncé) Producer of the Year, Non-Classical Alissia Dernst "D'Mile" Emile I lan Fitchuk Mustard Daniel Nigro (WINNER)

WORLD/NATIONAL NEWS

Grammys 2025 - In Recap

by Alice Oustatcher

Songwriter of the Year, Non-Classical Jessi Alexander Amy Allen (WINNER) Edgar Barrera Jessie Jo Dillon RAYE Best Pop Solo Performance "BODYGUARD" - Beyoncé "Espresso" - Sabrina Carpenter (WINNER) "Apple" - Charli XCX

The Weeknd’s unexpected performance.

Courtesy of Vulture

Singers Billie Eilish, Sabrina Carpenter & Chappell Roan enjoying the night.

Courtesy of Billboard

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WORLD/NATIONAL NEWS

The 2026 World Cup: A Tournament Across Nations

by Abigail Perisa

The world’s biggest sporting event, the FIFA World Cup, is coming to North America in 2026 and is drawing significant attention.

For the first time in history,

more countries than ever before having the opportunity to compete in the World Cup. The Hosts Each of the three host

Mexico Mexico is a soccer powerhouse with a rich World Cup history, having hosted the

the tournament will be cohosted by three countries

nations has a deep connection to soccer, and the World Cup is

tournament twice before, once in 1970 and again in 1986. The

including the United States, Canada, and Mexico. This collaboration is set to make the 2026 World Cup one of the most exciting events in soccer.

expected to showcase their passion for the sport in different ways.

United States While soccer is not

passion of many Mexican fans will make World Cup matches in the nation’s cities unforgettable.

Mexico’s involvement in the 2026 World

traditionally the most popular

Cup is an amazing opportunity

A New Chapter The 2026 World Cup will be the first time the tournament is hosted by three nations.

Previously, the World Cup was co-hosted only once, in 2002, in

sport in the U.S., the country’s growing interest in the sport has become obvious in the recent decades. The U.S. will host 60 of the 80 matches, including the championship at MetLife

for them to show their long lasting love for the game.

South Korea and Japan. The 2026 edition is also a milestone because it will be the first World Cup to feature 48 teams, an increase from the usual 32.

This change promises to bring even more excitement, with

Stadium in New Jersey. With the growing popularity of Major League Soccer and the U.S. National Team's improving performance on the world stage, America’s role as host will showcase the nation’s

years, with both the men’s and women’s teams making impressive achievements on the international scale. Hosting the World Cup will give Canada the chance to showcase its talented players and develop a

Courtesy of ABC10

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soccer evolution.

Canada Canada’s soccer culture has been rapidly growing in recent

WORLD/NATIONAL NEWS

The 2026 World Cup: A Tournament Across Nations

by Abigail Perisa

new generation of soccer stars.

Matches will be held in popular cities like Toronto, Vancouver, and Montreal, where soccer is quickly becoming one of the most popular sports, behind

Soccer’s Expanding Reach With 48 teams participating, there will be opportunities for countries to play that have not been a part of this tournament in the past. This expansion will

appreciation for soccer all over the world.

hockey.

create more thrilling matches and a more global sense of

the 2026 World Cup will be a global celebration of sport,

Stadiums and Locations The tournament will be held across 16 cities, with the U.S. hosting the most matches and the championship. Stadiums

competition. Fans will get to see new soccer nations perform, offering new rivalries and competition throughout each game.

culture, and unity. For soccer fans, it represents an opportunity to witness history being made as North America takes center stage.

such

as

MetLife

Stadium,

Looking Ahead With over a billion people expected to tune in worldwide,

As we count down the years

AT&T Stadium, and the Rose Bowl will enhance the excitement of the tournament.

Mexico’s rich soccer culture, Canada’s vibrant cities, and America’s world renowned

Economic & Cultural Impact The World Cup is expected to bring tremendous economic benefits to the host countries.

Tourism, development, and global visibility will provide a

until the 2026 World Cup, the whole world is getting excited.

This tournament will not only define the future of soccer in North America but will also inspire millions around the

soccer stars are all expected to help in making this a special World Cup in history.

The wide range of venues across these countries provides an incredible opportunity for soccer fans from around the

huge boost to the local economies. In addition, the event will strengthen the cultural ties between the three host nations, as soccer fans from all corners of the world will come together to celebrate

globe to come together and celebrate the world’s most popular and beloved sport.

globe to experience the World Cup amid diverse scenery. From the busy streets of New York to the beautiful beaches of Vancouver, the tournament will be a collaborative celebration of diversity and unity.

the beautiful game.

Overall, the event will have a lasting impact on the soccer culture in North America. It will leave a legacy of improved facilities, increased youth sport participation, and a greater A list of 2026 World Cup qualifiers.

Courtesy of Football Rankings

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WORLD/NATIONAL NEWS

Lessons from a TikTok Ban

by Oscar Zhou

Imagine the indestructible tanks rolling closer and closer to your trench, crushing your comrades into pieces. The fellow soldiers you were talking to yesterday are shot and become cold, dead bodies today. There’s nothing you can do. Meanwhile, you look up to the top of the

information on the user’s account. Finally, in December 2022, ByteDance utilized TikTok to track information of American journalists.

Through the three examples above, it was not hard to establish that TikTok can be used by ByteDance to track information from minors,

well-decorated war-time command center and there stands your officer, who’s giving orders

important people, and journalists. Thus, the people running TikTok most likely hold serious information in their hands and may accidentally (or otherwise) spread that data out.

about the areas the soldiers should conquer next.

But you know these areas are the same for the entire year. Soldiers were continuously fighting and dying with no achievements at all. Yes, I’m describing the life of a soldier during World War I, but the notion of a military conflict applies to a current, modern “war,” the one between TikTok and the U.S. government.

The reason for a TikTok ban in the U.S. was simple—the government feared that the content displayed in the app would be leaked to the Chinese Communist Party. In February 2019, ByteDance, the Chinese parent company of TikTok, was caught collecting data from minors.

In June 2022, Buzzfeed News reported TikTok has a “master admin” with access to all

A TikTok posted by President Donald J. Trump’s presidential campaign.

Courtesy of Semafor

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Scared of any further information leaks, Congress finally decided to ban TikTok as of January 19, 2025. As a response, roughly over half a million furious TikTok users turned to the Chinese app Rednote. These new users of Rednote felt that the Chinese were not stealing any information, and furthermore protested the government’s unjustified decision prohibiting TikTok. Although their behavior was extreme, it was not illogical. It could be understood that users, not governments, were the innocent people who endured the consequences of such a conflict. Some TikTok users stated that TikTok was the only source they receive happiness

Protestors oppose a TikTok ban in front of the Supreme Court.

Courtesy of NBC

WORLD/NATIONAL NEWS

Lessons from a TikTok Ban

by Oscar Zhou

from, and, if they lost TikTok, they lost everything. Luckily for them, TikTok was reopened one day later through President Trump’s work. For TikTok supporters, the storm of an impending ban had stopped, but the clouds in the sky haven’t faded away.

Now, you might ask, what’s the connection between World War I referred to earlier and the crisis of TikTok? The answer is, when two countries or two hostile groups fight each other, the ones who pay for the consequences are always innocent civilians, soldiers, and in this case, users. In the past, people died in battle, while now, citizens suffer the consequences of

TikTok’s Singaporean CEO Shou Chew testifies during Congressional hearings on a TikTok ban.

Courtesy of People

these disputes between countries and companies.

A death on the battlefield is not the same as the loss of an app, but both demonstrate a lack of power for the individual citizen or soldier. Both hurt, as death and loss of hope impact people significantly. Fortunately, these incidents are avoidable. With help from the United Nations, it’s possible to form an International Investigative Organization to investigate only ByteDance without shutting down TikTok. In addition, if the technology is being misused, only that country or person should be investigated. In this way, innocent users will not be implicated anymore. In short, TikTok’s only purpose is to bring entertainment to people, without regard to politics or the current conflict.

A screen displays the message shown to users during TikTok’s brief ban in January 2025.

Courtesy of The Associated Press

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WORLD/NATIONAL NEWS

Content Moderation Controversies

by Emma O’Neill

On January 7th, 2025, Mark Zuckerberg announced changes to his company Meta’s policies surrounding content moderation that angered many. Zuckerberg revealed that he would be getting rid of Meta’s fact-checking policies, making it less restrictive what people

be misleading. Mark Zuckerberg has stated that Meta is “going to work with President Trump to push back on governments around the world that are going after American companies and pushing to censor more”.

These content moderation changes have

can say on Meta’s apps and the kind of content they can put on them. Meta will also be

sparked angry reactions. Many people are worried that Meta’s platforms such as Facebook and Instagram will turn into communities that are hateful and full of misinformation, and

changing its content moderation policies on politics and reversing the changes once made to reduce the amount of political expression put in people’s feeds. Content moderation practices were also relaxed to focus on more extreme and illegal content.

Meta’s fact-checking program was initially launched in 2016 for independent experts to help users evaluate what they see online and read more critically. However, just like everyone else, experts had their own political biases that affected the censorship. Also, too many posts would get censored by accident. Meta will be replacing its fact-checking program with a program similar to X’s community notes. This program will allow Meta users to add contextual notes to posts to help others gain a broader perspective on content that could potentially

Courtesy of NBC News

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exacerbate the spread of harmful content. The Leadership Conference on Civil and Human Rights has said that the new moderation changes have posed a threat to civil rights and that content moderation is important for protecting marginalized communities from harmful content.

There was also outrage sparked on February 26th, 2025, due to many Instagram users seeing Reels that were graphic and violent. Meta apologized for the error and said that the Reels shouldn’t have been recommended, but many users think that this occurred due to the recent changes in content moderation and that the restrictions need to be put back in place. Andy Burrows, Molly Rose Foundation’s executive, which was set up by teenager Molly Rose’s family after killing herself in 2017 after seeing distressing content on Instagram, stated that “as Instagram rolls back content moderation this is likely to be a sign of things to come. Meta’s changes will mean this type of content is more freely available and will more often be recommended to appear in user’s feeds”.

WORLD/NATIONAL NEWS

The Palisades Fire

by Isabella Fuertes

The Palisades Fire which began in early January, rapidly spread across Los Angeles, threatening some of the city's most affluent neighborhoods and landmarks. The fires, driven

relief efforts. Reality star Kim Kardashian was one of the first to announce that she and her family were evacuated from their Calabasas home, although reports suggest the house had

optimistic, telling followers, "Stay safe, we will rebuild."

The impact of the Palisades Fire was not limited to residential areas. Several of Los Angeles’s most iconic landmarks were

by hot temperatures, dry conditions, and strong winds,

not been directly impacted by the fire. Kardashian was sure to

also put in danger. The Griffith Observatory, one of the city’s

caused widespread destruction, forcing evacuations and leaving a trail of devastation across Malibu, Bel-Air, and the Hollywood Hills.

urge her followers to stay safe and express her gratitude to first responders.

Actor Leonardo DiCaprio shared that his Malibu home

most recognizable attractions, remained intact but was at risk from fire spreading into nearby areas.

The Hollywood Sign,

As the flames continued

was also under threat from the

another iconic landmark, also

spreading through various parts of the city, damage to both residential properties and historical landmarks increased.

Among those affected are several high-profile celebrities,

flames. DiCaprio, who has long campaigned for climate change awareness, took to social media to express his concern about the fires and the ongoing climate crisis that is exacerbating the

faced the threat of destruction.

Fortunately, the sign itself was spared, though the surrounding hills suffered significant damage. The fire has devastated much of the natural landscape

whose homes have either been damaged or evacuated as a result of the fires.

Many affected residents, including celebrities, have shared their experiences and offered support to the ongoing

frequency of wildfires.

Pop singer Lady Gaga, who resides in the Hollywood Hills, also updated fans, confirming that her home had been evacuated. Despite the scare, Gaga’s message remained

in the area, raising concerns about the future of local wildlife and the environment.

In addition, Universal Studios Hollywood, a major tourist destination, was temporarily closed as a

An image of the devastation.

Courtesy of The Atlantic

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WORLD/NATIONAL NEWS

The Palisades Fire

by Isabella Fuertes

precautionary measure.

Although the fire did not reach the studio’s main lot, nearby areas were impacted by smoke and forced evacuations, disrupting both visitors and

combined with dry conditions and Santa Ana winds, created a perfect storm for the fires to spread rapidly.

While the fires caused significant loss and hardship,

homes and belongings in the fires.

As the city weathers this crisis, residents and first responders continue to show resilience and solidarity. The

employees.

As the fires raged, thousands

many local including the

organizations, Red Cross,

Palisade fires have highlighted the urgent need to address

of residents across Los Angeles were forced to flee their homes.

The Los Angeles Fire Department (LAFD) was forced to work around the clock to

mobilized to provide assistance to those affected. Shelters were quickly set up, and emergency relief efforts continue to provide food, water, and

climate change and better prepare for future wildfires. The road to recovery will be long, but Los Angeles is a city known for its strength, and its people

contain the fire, with crews

medical care to now-displaced

are determined to rebuild.

battling difficult terrain and unpredictable winds. The smoke from the fires also made air quality in many parts of the city hazardous, with residents being urged to stay indoors. The

families.

Many celebrities have pledged their support, with some donating large sums to aid those affected by the disaster.

Fundraisers and charity events

heatwave gripping the area,

are being organized to help those who have lost their

Scorched residential areas along Los Angeles’ Pacific coast and across the city.

Courtesy of The Los Angeles Times

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COMMUNITY/SCHOOL NEWS

A Q&A With Mr. Albani

by Chloe Lin

This January, the Garden City High School Orchestra was given an opportunity to perform at Disney World in Orlando, Florida, enjoying the rides and amenities of “The Most Magical Place on Earth” in the process. Freshman Chloe Lin interviewed Mr. Albani, our high school

Q: What do you think will be the biggest challenge on this trip?

Mr. Albani: I think one of the biggest challenges is going to be trying to make sure everything is remembered as we travel from place to place.

Some of the days are quite busy, with

orchestra director, before and after the trip to document the experience and anticipation

performances, early morning rides and (us) traveling to various parks. Making sure that everyone has everything that they need each day is going to be tricky because there's a lot of

leading up to it. Read on for more.

Q: How do you think this trip will benefit students' growth in music?

Mr. Albani: This trip will give the opportunity

small items and things involved in packing when preparing for a performance followed by a day in the park.

for both orchestras to come together and perform new and exciting pieces that we are getting to prepare specifically for Disney. That includes learning popular Disney songs.

Performing at Disney Springs is going to be a new experience that we haven't done before. The stage is at the center of a very busy and popular shopping center. This will invite audiences to sit down and listen, people that have never heard us play and don't know who we are. word

Q: Are there any special activities that are planned for this trip?

Mr. Albani: Yes, there are. We have a workshop with a special professional musician that has been involved with many professional performing activities around the world. She will be leading us to work through various Disney pieces and (will) give us the opportunity to see what a professional musician at Disney does.

Q: What are you looking forward to the most?

Mr. Albani: The performance, as it is… as I have heard, it is a very memorable place to perform. Getting to perform Disney music at the heart of Disney is a memory that will stick to me forever.

Courtesy of Lauren Marino

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COMMUNITY/SCHOOL NEWS

A Q&A With Mr. Albani

by Chloe Lin

Q: Were there any particular moments that stood out to you as highlights on the trip?

Mr. Albani: Watching at the beginning of the trip, as people went around the parks in their usual groups of friends, and seeing on the third and second day as the groups evolved into much

Q: Will you consider organizing another trip like this in the future?

Mr. Albani: Absolutely, the only thing I would change is potentially spending a little more time at some of the parks. The first day we had two parks (to visit) so maybe we spent a little more

bigger groups of people was so exciting to see.

time with animals (Animal Kingdom). Other than that I think it worked out very well. Both our performance and workshop were in the morning so it worked out very well and being

Q: In what ways do you think this trip helped students grow as musicians or individuals?

Mr. Albani: My hope is that the new friendships and connections that were made during the trip can last, and those memories and experiences

able to have a full day in the parks having fun instead of leaving (for) the performance in the afternoon would have been very chaotic.

will be something that brings the class closer together and be shared with future students, which will make them excited in which being part of the music program offers.

Q: Were there any unexpected challenges or surprises that you had to manage?

Mr. Albani: When we were going to our performance, there were some changes in scheduling which made things tighter than they were supposed to be and it didn't give us the same amount of time that we would have had to warm up and prepare. The students were such professionals that they were able to adapt to the

Q: What was your favorite memory from this trip?

Mr. Albani: My favorite memory was the end of the first day, after an incredibly long day sitting and watching the fireworks at Epcot, just thinking "we did it here.” It finally all fell on me, like, it's real. The whole time leading up to it the trip didn't feel quite real. It wasn't until that moment until it became real.

situation without any issues and were able to give a spectacular performance.

Courtesy of Lauren Marino

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COMMUNITY/SCHOOL NEWS

Congestion Pricing Comes to New York

by Lynn Yang

New York City has long faced the challenge of congestion. With millions of people relying on the city's transportation infrastructure daily (and millions more using personal vehicles in the densely populated city) the question of how to ease traffic congestion and improve air

sustainable urban environments.

New York City’s congestion pricing plan, approved in 2019 and rolled out on January 5, 2025, charges vehicles entering Manhattan below 60th Street. This area, which includes the Financial District, Times Square, and other

quality has become a pressing one.

One solution that has gained traction is

major hubs, is the most congested part of the city, with thousands of vehicles crowding the streets every day.

Currently, the price is about $9 during peak

congestion pricing, a policy aimed at reducing traffic in the most congested areas of the city.

But what exactly is congestion pricing, how does it work, and what impact will it have on New Yorkers?

Congestion pricing refers to a strategy of charging drivers a fee to enter certain areas of a city, typically during peak traffic hours. The goal is to reduce the number of vehicles in heavily trafficked zones, which eases congestion, reduces air pollution, and funds public transportation projects. Many cities like London, Singapore, and Stockholm have previously implemented congestion pricing systems, using the revenue generated to improve their public transit networks and create more

A sign on 62nd St. notifies drivers of the congestion pricing toll.

hours, but it varies based on factors such as time of day and the level of congestion. For instance, drivers currently pay a higher fee during rush hours and a lower one during overnight times.

The revenue generated from this system is expected to go toward improving the city’s public transportation infrastructure, including the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA), which operates buses, subways, and commuter trains.

Under the new system, drivers entering the designated congestion zone are charged electronically, much in the same way tolls are collected on bridges and tunnels. Instead of

A map of affected areas of Manhattan.

Courtesy of NBC New York

Courtesy of The New York Times

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COMMUNITY/SCHOOL NEWS

Congestion Pricing Comes to New York

by Lynn Yang

stopping at toll booths, vehicles have their license plates automatically scanned, and the toll deducted from an account. This type of system, known as open road tolling, is designed to minimize delays.

To ensure fairness, the system offers

who depend on cars for commuting, especially those who cannot afford to pay tolls. Others have voiced concerns about how the plan will affect local businesses and the economy, fearing that higher transportation costs could lead to fewer customers in certain areas.

exemptions for certain vehicles, such as emergency vehicles, and has reduced fees for

However, the city has promised that the revenue generated will be used to make public transit more affordable and accessible, particularly for low-income riders. Additionally,

residents who live in the congestion zone. Some exemptions and discounts may be applied in the future to low-income drivers or electric vehicles, helping to incentivize greener options.

One of the most significant benefits of congestion pricing is its potential to reduce traffic congestion in one of the world’s busiest urban areas. Fewer cars on the road will lead to smoother traffic flow, making commuting more predictable and less stressful. Additionally, with fewer vehicles idling in traffic, air quality will improve, benefiting both the environment and public health.

While congestion pricing has many potential benefits, some argue that it could disproportionately impact low-income drivers

the plan’s design includes efforts to ensure that residents within the congestion zone are not unfairly burdened.

Congestion pricing in New York City is an ambitious and innovative solution to one of the world’s most persistent urban challenges. By reducing traffic congestion, improving air quality, and funding public transit, the city is taking a giant leap toward a more sustainable future. This vision for a more efficient, greener, and less congested New York City is one that could have lasting positive effects for generations to come.

An M train crosses the Williamsburg Bridge, a roadway affected by congestion pricing measures aimed to promote transit use.

Congestion relief signage on Second Avenue.

Courtesy of CNN

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Courtesy of Raman Patel

COMMUNITY/SCHOOL NEWS

Boys' Soccer's Big Season

by Gianluca Damiano

The score is 2-0, with only a couple of minutes left.

Garden City High School, representing Long Island’s best for Division AA soccer, is playing against Clarence, representing Upstate New York’s best for Division AA soccer.

boys’ team had won their first state championship in history, a true cause for celebration.

Still, it’s impossible to forget the path that this incredible team took to win the championship, one that began with their

Center defensive midfielder Justin Woodbine and striker Myles Watson have just scored in the

undefeated regular season. Not only did they get revenge on the Manhasset team that eliminated them from the playoffs the previous year (winning 3-0 both times), but they dominated in

space of a couple of minutes, with Watson’s penalty kick seeming to erase any hope of Clarence winning their first state championship.

But, just as Garden City’s first ever State Championship seemed a sure thing, Clarence striker Patrick Krough ran down the sideline, getting a cross in to his midfielder Andrew Gulde and bringing the game back to within one goal. With about 8 minutes left, Clarence’s hope for a comeback was renewed.

As a part of Garden City’s varsity team, I happened to be watching all of this from the sideline, and I can tell you that all of us on the bench and the fans in the stands were extremely nervous after this goal.

To be honest, those eight minutes felt like an eternity, but I had faith in our defense and its strong players, like Charlie Koester, Thomas, Fargione, Dylan, Fisher, and Jacob Antilety.

Play after play, they cleared the ball and locked up Clarence. After those eight minutes had ended, I don’t even remember them having had a shot on goal.

The seconds ticked down to zero, and Garden City Soccer had finally done it. The

word

almost all of their games against opponents like Division Ave. and Hewlett. Even when teams provided Garden City with difficult competition, they showed resilience, coming on top against Southside 1-0 and against Fort Hamilton 3-2.

It was in the playoffs when they really started to shine. With early dominant displays against New Hyde Park and Great Neck North (winning 4-0 and 3-0 respectively), as well as amazing performances from Myles Watson, Justin Woodbine and Connor Griffin, they moved on to face Glen Cove in the county final.

Coming into this game, Glen Cove’s striker Enry Hernandez had scored 8 goals in 3 games and appeared to be a serious threat. However, he was shut down for almost the entirety of the game by Koester and Fargione, and Garden City won by a comfortable 2-0 scoreline with goals from Luca Profeta and Connor Griffin.

Now, for the first time since 2017, Garden City had reached the Long Island Championship and would now face Comsewogue. They were

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COMMUNITY/SCHOOL NEWS

Boys' Soccer's Big Season

by Gianluca Damiano

on an incredible run after upsetting #1 ranked team in the state, Smithtown High School, and were looking to make States for the first time in their history.

However, Garden City had other plans, and Myles Watson scored what would end up being

All of this brings us back to Garden City’s victory in the State Championship. Without the contributions of coach Paul Cutter and assistant coaches Luke Connolly and Mike Lind, this historical achievement would not have been possible. Their emphasis on discipline and

the decisive goal, seventeen minutes in. Now facing Tappan Zee in the regional finals, an

bringing the very best out of players through hard work is admirable. Ultimately, the collaboration between them and the incredibly talented Garden City soccer players is what

unlikely hero stepped up to the occasion, scoring the crucial goal that would turn the tide in GC’s favor: Dylan Fisher. The team’s right back had locked up Tappan Zee’s star player Brady Jacob’s for most of the match, and also scored

brought our team the long-awaited State Championship trophy.

the goal to send Garden City to States for just the second time in their history. The game against Goshen Central was highly anticipated, but ended as an easy 2-0 victory for Garden City, with Dylan Fisher scoring yet again with another incredible header and substitute Jack Shorr netting another one late in the game.

Finally, they had reached the championship.

Celebrating the win in downtown Garden City.

Courtesy of The Garden City News

Coach Cutter with seniors Connor Griffin & Justin Woodbine.

Courtesy of The Garden City News

Team members celebrate the victory & perfect season.

Courtesy of Newsday

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STUDENT/TEACHER SPOTLIGHT

Mr. Rebolini Returns (Briefly)

by Isabella Fuertes

You may remember a bittersweet ECHO article from this past year, spotlighting two veteran GCHS English teachers, Ms. Oriani and Mr. Rebolini.

However, little did we know

looked forward to.

Despite the unique circumstances, Mr. Rebolini found the experience of teaching very natural. He leaves with fond memories; students

He is currently writing poetry, fiction, and autobiographical work.

I inquired if his “second retirement” would factor into his work on the latter, but

one of these teachers would be returning to us in the 2024-2025

would come up after class, and ask him questions about Hamlet

received a tepid response. Mr. Rebolini’s answer was evasive:

school year. You’ve heard it right: Rebolini returned (before retiring again!).

Filling in for Ms. Dolan, who unfortunately had to take an

or particular poems into the next period. Mr. Rebolini takes these “special” moments with him into retirement. Enjoying the classroom environment

“wait a good while, and check your local Barnes & Noble!”

Returning to the high school allowed Mr. Rebolini the rare chance to meet the English

extended leave of absence, Mr.

(“the best place”) and time with

department’s two replacement

Rebolini temporarily put his retirement plans on hold. The transition was both smooth and challenging; Mr. Rebolini taught the same coursework as he had previously, but now had

students, he nonetheless felt it confirmed his decision to retire, with the busy school days making him glad he can “return to retirement.”

So, how has his retired life

teachers: Ms. Laucella and Ms. Bocca. Curious on their interactions, I was greeted with Mr. Rebolini’s praise for them: “They were great!”

He described them as “two fine,

to wake up bright and early—or, dark and early, that is—at 5:30 A.M., and could no longer have his “2nd cup of coffee at [his] leisure”. Yet the experience of seeing friends and old students again was one Mr. Rebolini

been? According to Mr. Rebolini, restful! The downtime has given him the chance to read numerous books he wanted to read. In addition, Mr. Rebolini has been writing independently.

young teachers,” each with “energetic and bright” personalities. In his short time back at the school, he was “pleased” with both, fondly declaring that “it has been nice working with them.”

Mr. Rebolini with current seniors in 2024.

Courtesy of Garden City Public Schools

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STUDENT/TEACHER SPOTLIGHT

Mr. Rebolini Returns (Briefly)

by Isabella Fuertes

While Mr. Rebolini has no particular advice for retiring teachers, he does have some for young teachers—responses reminiscent of his words in our previous article. He believes it is essential for teachers to “always focus on the student and the relationship with the student, because it is the most important aspect of being a teacher.” Getting to know your students and making connections, he believes, is essential for good teaching.

“Relationships are the most important thing; if you can’t connect, you won’t be effective as a teacher.” In this way, Mr. Rebolini hopes his time teaching has set an example for future teachers.

While we will miss Mr. Rebolini with fresh grief, it was a fortunate experience for the GCHS community to see his face in the hallways again.

ECHO wishes Mr. Rebolini a peaceful retirement.

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Mr. Rebolini in his earlier years at Garden City High School.

Courtesy of BuzzFeed

REVIEWS

No Country For Old Men

by Hunter Maguire

If you’re a senior (current or past) in Mrs. Dolan’s AP English Literature class, you’re probably familiar with Cormac McCarthy and his work, specifically the novels All the

first-person character and sheriff of tiny Terrell County, Texas, a windswept, western territory near the Mexican border. Sheriff Bell is devout, protective of his constituents,

the borderlands of the New West, however, is the growing heroin trade from Mexico and Latin America. Money, people, and substances flow almost unrestrained across the border,

Pretty Horses and No Country for Old Men.

and conservative: he bemoans the changing times and a loss of

inducing a crisis of faith in small-town lawmen like Bell,

Two of McCarthy’s many contemporary Western works, each is able to indict and recontextualize tropes about heroism, violence, wealth,

tradition, lamenting that once you quit hearing "sir" and "ma'am," the rest is soon to foller.”

Further contrasts between the

powerless to stop this new form of violence. This development powers the novel, as Moss, during his “hunting” excursion, discovers a massive drug deal

dreams, and journeys in an

Old and New West become

gone wrong, replete with dead

evolving, mid-century Texas (1949 and 1980, respectively).

I enjoyed both books, but from here on, I’ll be focusing on No Country for Old Men. NCFOM

evident; our “protagonist,” Llewelyn Moss, is introduced during a feeble attempt at hunting in the shrubby landscape, clearly set apart from the dominant men of

bodies, shot-up trucks, and a briefcase containing $2.4 million in cash.

Anton Chigurh, a seemingly sociopathic hitman, and the novel’s arguable antagonist, is

(as I’ll abbreviate it) is different in tone from All the Pretty Horses: mature, weathered, and deeply cynical in its assessment of a modernizing frontier society.

The narrative is driven by Ed

classic Westerns. Moss’ wife, Carla Jean, dreams mystically of her future husband for a hundred days before finding him, not in the desert or saloon, but at work in the Walmart sporting goods aisle.

also connected to the drug trade, executing the will of greater forces (and economic interests) as he attempts to recover and return the money.

NCFOM is as much of a moral and philosophical excursion as

Tom Bell, the novel’s only

The greatest crisis in

it is a classic thriller.

Courtesy of Collider

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REVIEWS

No Country For Old Men

by Hunter Maguire

26

The standard-fare morality of cowboys, outlaws, and innocents is nowhere to be found: here, empathy and goodness are more often punished than rewarded. Moss

with discretion and desire to kill others consider him to be.

Before shooting one character, he famously utters, If the rule you followed brought you to this, of what use was the rule?

chooses to take the millions for himself, but returns with water

Twice, he flips a coin to determine others’ fates, arguing

for a dying survivor, a fatal mistake. There, a group of men pursue him, and though he escapes, he is identified and forced to leave his Jeep in the

that a coin toss is the “best he can do” while complying with fate.

I’ve tried not to spoil too much here, but in summary, No

process.

Country

Its most interesting character, however, is Chigurh. Despite the irreverent, indiscriminate, and barbaric way he kills, he maintains a morality (however twisted) and purity of intent

definitely a new favorite of mine. The plot is meticulously constructed, but the spiritual depth of the novel shines even brighter. Profound questions about death (and the

across the novel.

Unlike members of the Cartel or Moss, he is immune to persuasion and seemingly uncorrupted by wealth. He depersonalizes his own acts, viewing himself as an agent of

significance we attach to it), memory, self-preservation, and free will are raised by NCFOM for those engaged enough to find them.

To those of you reading, I hope you pick up the novel soon and

fate, far from the murderer

enjoy it as much as I did!

for

Old

Men

is

Courtesy of Amazon