December final

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The Norwalk High School

Paw Print “How the Bears make their mark”

VOLUME XI, ISSUE II December 2016

IN THIS ISSUE: News A&E Feature

Dropping Classes - NHS Elise Sullivan

Sports

Norwalk High School students have more strongly adhered to the policy stating that they cannot drop out of a course, and though they have been following this policy, they do not necessarily agree with it.

“The policy takes away fairness in a student’s education. As a student, you want to challenge yourself, but on occasion, the challenge may not be the best decision,” contends NHS student, Jazmine Manning (’18).

According to Guidance Chairperson, Dr. Sullivan, this policy has been in effect for the past two years at NHS, however, it is being enforced more stringently this year. He explains, “the goal of this policy is to instill college readiness skills in high school students, and help them make thoughtful and educated decisions when choosing classes for a year long plan.”

Before this the practice was students were allowed to drop a semester course up to the interim or a year long course up to the first quarter. NHS teacher, Mr. Moffett, states, “I agree with the old policy because if some students are misplaced into a certain class, especially in math, there was time for them to decide if they needed to switch out.” He follows, “every year, I have kids who are misplaced into my AP class and there have been times when counsel-

naan allow their students to drop courses.

Brien McMahon, however, “only allows students to change their course selections if certain criteria in the course selection book is met,” states BMHS Principal, Suzanne Brown Koroshetz. This criteria can include the printed schedule being incorrect, a prerequisite or credit deficiency, or a conflict with another course.

Koroshetz, explains, “We have stressed this practice for years - all of my ten years as principal, and I believe it has become part of the fabric at Brien McMahon.” She continues, “however, we are mindful that sometimes there are extraordinary extenuating circumstances and these are handled on an individual basis.”

Arden Cohen (’17), a student from Darien High School, offers his perspective on the policy. “I think students should definitely be able to drop a class. It is your school; students should be able to decide what they want to learn and should not be forced to take a class that they find too difficult.”

Dr. Sullivan states, “When students are working hard through a challenging course, their true character comes through. Students should learn to make thoughtful decisions when picking classes in high school and stick with them.”

The student body and faculty have opposing views on this policy, and it will take time to discover how effective this policy truly is.

Opinion

News Editor

ors have let these students drop early in the year.”

Students at NHS have experienced situations in which they wanted to drop a class, but have not been able to. Manning explains, “This year, I wish I could drop my AP Government & Politics class. From doing the summer work months ago, I was overwhelmed. The content is very difficult for me to understand and I try my hardest to stay on top of my notes and to perform well on tests and quizzes, but I am never able to. I asked in the beginning of first quarter if I was able to get out of the class, but due to the policy, the answer was no.”

This policy has had a large effect on the NHS students. “I think that other students will likely get themselves stuck in classes that they realize they do not want to be in, and therefore, they will learn and engage less, resulting in their grades dropping,” states Norwalk High School student, Laney Morenberg (’18). She follows with, “however, I do see where the policy is coming from because students have to learn to follow through with commitments and stick out situations that are not necessarily ideal.”

NHS teacher, Mrs. Weber, offers her views on the policy. “In general, I think that it is a good idea. It is important for a student to put forth the effort and try their best in a class, even if it is difficult.”

In contrast to Norwalk High’s policy, high schools in the surrounding towns such as Westport, Darien, and New Ca-

Table of Contents:

News.................................2 Arts & Entertainment.........6 Feature............................10 Editorial..........................12 Opinon............................13 Sports..............................17

NEWS Student Spotlight: Gracie Bradley Mackenzie Lowden Co - Editor In Chief There are hundreds of kids at Norwalk High School that continue to make a difference everyday. Whether it is playing a sport, being involved in the music or art departments, participating in student government, creating a club, or helping others within the community, these students deserve to be recognized by their teachers and peers. Every issue, there will be a new student featured in this column who has impacted NHS in extraordinary ways. The Student Spotlight for the December issue is Grace Bradley (’17).

So far, Grace has been enjoying her senior year experience. Here at NHS, Bradley has been taking both AP and Honors classes, including AP Environmental Science and her second year of AP English. However, although she has had a positive experience so far, it being her final year at NHS, she admits, “It’s definitely bittersweet because I’ve loved my experience here but I’m definitely ready to move on.”

“I’ve had a very positive experience at Norwalk High School. I like that you’re able to - that I can find things that I’m interested in.” She continues by saying how she likes the different outlets offered. “I like the diversity and how if you want to succeed and go down a path of being involved you can.” Grace’s college application process has been going as planned, finishing all of her applications early. When asked about her major, Bradley adds, “I’ve loved each school I’ve been at” and would perhaps want to be an Elementary school principal. Because of the fact that she does not have much family here in Connecticut, she states that she “wants something different” to see what she likes best, considering to head South. However, she adds that she had nothing against Norwalk, therefore, she is not against coming back.

Bradley is involved with numerous activities and clubs within NHS. These include: being the president of the National Honors Society, a member of Bears Beating Cancer, as well as Chambers Choir, making her a part of Norwalk’s most well known holiday concert, Candlelight. Grace has also been a part of “Project Lead The Way” (PLTW) which is a series of engineering courses, taught by Mrs. Morrison.

NHS has their annual Bear Flop fundraiser once every school year. In fact, Grace had won the competition her sophomore year. She states, “I’m involved with field hockey and lacrosse,” (senior captain for both,) and for the annual Bear Flop event of the 2016-2017 school year, the entire field hockey team will be participating.

As one can clearly see, Bradley has impacted NHS in several inspirational ways, but she has also had a positive effect on the Norwalk community as a whole. “I sing at my church,” and “I work at a florist.” She adds that some of her interests include sports and helping others. However, neither of those top the fact that throughout her entire high school career, Bradley has been working with special needs kids at her church as well as a youth group just out of New Canaan, which led to her senior project explore. “My Project Explore is unified sports which is a combined sports team of special needs and typical students at Norwalk High.”

Bradley has been an ideal student, athlete, and member of the Norwalk community. She has inspired many with her work ethic and service, and therefore deserves recognition in her contributions and accomplishments. NHS wishes the best of luck to Bradley in all of her future endeavors.

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Powder-Puff Recap Alexis Morelli Reporter The annual Powderpuff Game occurred November 16th, 2016 at 2:45 between the class of 2017 and the class of 2018. The junior and senior girls participated in a game of flag football, including referees, student coaches, and male “cheerleaders”. The event included food, a half-time show put on by the male cheerleaders, announcers narrating the game, and the game itself.

Practices for the game began mid October as each team planned out plays, their players positions, and strategy. “It was stressful but fun,” explained AJ Hall (’18), student coach, on the day of the game. “We have a a couple of exciting plays that we hope will catch them off guard.”

The Powderpuff game was originally supposed to occur on November 15th, but was postponed due to rain. “I wanted the PowderPuff players and coaches to get a good crowd to show off all their planning and practicing,” explained Ms. Gleason, the class advisor for the class of 2018 and the Juniors’ powderpuff advisor.

The game ended up having a good turnout, with

over seventy-five students in the bleachers cheering on the teams in the warm sixty-degree weather. Those watching the game enjoyed hot Garden Catering, pizza, caramel apples,and other food and drinks from the concession stand.

The Junior and Senior girls played for two 20 minute halves, with a running clock. At halftime, the male cheerleaders then raced onto the field to perform a halftime dance off. The Junior cheerleaders danced to Juju On That Beat, with a few Senior cheerleaders joining in competitively. The Seniors performed their dance rendition to the “Cha Cha Slide”. The players then took their positions on a field again to battle out the last half.

After playing hard for the final twenty minutes, the exhausted players scrambled for the ball one last time as the buzzer went off. The final score ended up being 8-2, with the excited Senior class as the winners. “Normally, the seniors win each year, so we were definitely happy about it...

We appreciated all of their volunteering to bring us the win,” said Mr. Heaslip, Senior class advisor.

The senior class powderpuff team is leaving NHS with a win, and the junior class team hopes to do the same next year.

Critical Concussions Riley Robinson Photo Editor

Medical research in the past decade has shown that concussions can cause long-term health problems, affecting an athlete’s mood, balance, and memory. Even with this increased awareness, some Norwalk High School athletes lie about head injuries to continue playing.

Caila Degrandi (’18) plays varsity soccer, and chose to keep quiet in a high-pressure game against Brien McMahon High School. She explained, “We were playing McMahon, our arch rivals, and we were down one to zero. I really didn’t want to get taken out so I lied and said I was okay. Since its a head injury, you have to come out, but my coach put me right back in cause I said I was okay.”

The concussion from this game caused Degrandi to miss two months of school.

However, she does not regret her decision: “I played, which made it worse, but I made the tying goal, so that’s what made it worth it to me.”

Valentin Brito (’17), a varsity quarterback, lost his helmet in a tackle and hit his bare head on the turf during the first quarter in a game against Greenwich High School. He said, “When I got hit, everything went white.” He immediately knew something was wrong: “In my head, I was like, no I’m not good. But then I went back in, ran the ball, got hit again.” Brito kept playing until Masayoshi Shoji, the NHS athletic trainer, pulled him out during the third quarter.

For both Degrandi’s and Brito’s injuries, neither Shoji, nor their coaches, happened to see the moment of impact, and did not know its severity. When coaches

do know, there is strict protocol and sidelines testing.

Every coach interviewed for this article noted the increased caution around concussions in the past decade.

Mr. Seaburg, the field hockey coach, noted, “We just weren’t aware because the brain science wasn’t there. It was very, ‘alright get back in.’ Now that we know more, we’re more aware.” Mr. Ireland, the head football coach, said, “There’s a lot more supervision now than when I played. We send them to Masa right away, even if they say they just have a little headache.”

When coaches do not see every impact, athletes sometimes choose not to self-report for various reasons. Brito said, “You don’t want to look soft, so you don’t want to get pulled out.” Degrandi continued for the love of the game: “We just love the sport so much that we just want to keep playing.”

Kaitlyn Troy (’19) also a varsity soccer player, explained, “I wanted to play for the McMahon game, so I kind of pushed it and hurried back and told Masa I was fine, but then I got another concussion. I shouldn’t have risked it like that.” After “around ten concussions,” her doctors and parents prohibited her from playing. She seems unfazed about the effects of her repeated head injuries: “I have longterm memory problems, but that’s really it. I still want to play soccer, but I’m physically not allowed to anymore.” Sports culture has changed for the coaches, but that caution has not fully trickled down to the next generation of athletes.

Learn more about concussions @ CDC.gov

December 2016

NEWS

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Norwalk High’s Got Talent Maria Saldana Reporter The inhabitants of Norwalk High School all bring diversity and special talents to the school, and a select few were chosen to reveal their gifts at this years talent show.

NHS held its annual talent show, on November 9th, and eleven students qualified to actually take part in it. Acts in the talent show ranged from singing catchy pop ballads, playing original pieces on the piano, and gracefully dancing to music. Overall, the audience was astonished by the acts, and even the most nervous contestants were able to conquer their fears.

Felix Rosales (’18), played an original piece on the piano and had a great experience, stating, “It was an interesting experience to take part in the talent show. I found it helpful in the fact that it brought insight on how it is to perform alone on stage.” When asked about his favorite acts, the pianist noted, “My two favorite acts were Stephanie (’18) and Cherish(’18). I feel that both Stephanie and Cherish were powerful singers and should have placed higher.”

Another contestant in the talent show is no stranger to being on stage, considering

that she is a dancer herself. Alena Ludger (’18) claimed that, “It wasn’t anything that I haven’t done before, so it was fun.” The student continued, “My favorite acts were definitely Despina Dessouras(’17), Stephanie Zavala, and Cherish McGill’s performances.”

The audience was also amazed by the acts, including audience member Gabriela Nunez (’18), who noted,“The talent show was really fun to attend. It was nice to see other students willing to put in time and effort for the talent show and they were all really good.” She continued, “Aside from all of the acts themselves, my favorite part was how we got to vote because it was a good way to get the audience involved. And overall I really enjoyed Stephanie’s and Felix’s act.”

Another audience member, Alison O’Malley (’18), also enjoyed her time at the talent show, stating, “The talent show was really good, and I liked how everyone sang different types of music.”

Overall, the talent show held at NHS was a success for both the performers and the audience. Students were able to show off their artistic abilities, and other students and parents were able to support them.

Congratulations to the first place winners of the Norwalk High talent show, a band comprised of Sean Donaher (’19), Talon Goulart (’19), and Hunter Ricci(’19).

Go to the back page to see pictures from the talent show.

Spanish National NHS Blood Drive Honors Society Avinav Gupta

Business Manager

News Editor Learning a foreign language is an incredible opportunity to have. Norwalk High School celebrates and honors the students who have excelled in the Spanish language through the Spanish National Honors Society.

The Spanish National Honors Society Chapter at NHS is called, “Capítulo Universidad Salamanca.” This is a group of dedicated students interested in the Spanish language, culture, and community service. The University of Salamanca was founded in 1218 and is the oldest university in Spain still in operation today. It was the first university to offer language courses to foreign students when it adopted its Spanish Language program in 1929.

To be eligible for the society, students must be a junior in high school, be currently enrolled in a third year of Spanish or higher, have an A (90%) average in all spanish classes taken in high school, have at least a 3.5 GPA overall. They must demonstrate academic integrity and good character. Students do not apply for the society, but rather invited based on grades, character, and success in Spanish class.

The society at NHS is run by Mrs. Todeschini, a NHS Spanish Teacher. There are seven student members this year: Co-presidents Lesly Corado (’17) and Mustafa Kapadwala (’17), Vice President Saadiq Sterling (’17), Secretary Gracie

Bradley (’17), and Treasurers Prina Deva (’17), Timon Dauser (’17), and Ryan McGonigle (’17.)

In the society, the members participate in cultural activities, language competitions, community events, and work closely with chapters from other high schools. Secretary Gracie Bradley (’17) says, “One of my favorite parts about being in SNHS is working with the other groups and clubs, as well as helping them with their events.” She continues, “For example, we participate in a volunteer service with Staples High School during the holiday season.”

Mrs. Todeschini says, “Our primary focus is on service, directed both toward the Hispanic community and the community as a whole.” As a service-based society, each member is required to perform eight hours of community service per semester once they are inducted.

There are many parts about the Spanish National Honors Society that the members love. Co-President, Lesly Corado (’17) shares her favorite part about being in the Spanish National Honors Society.

“I love being able to bring awareness of the importance and value of Spanish Language. Our motto is “Todo a Una,” which means one for all. It exemplifies the diversity of the members and how we work as one, united by our love for Spanish culture.”

Current juniors who are eligible for the society will receive an invitation from Mrs. Todeschini in March 2017 and will take part in the induction ceremony in

Every pint of blood helps save three lives.

Norwalk High School held its annual Blood Drive on November 4th, 2016, which contributed towards saving many lives.

The drive was organized by the Red Cross Association with the help of NHS staff and members of the National Honors Society. Students above the age of seventeen, and the school staff were the only groups allowed to donate blood.

The main purpose of Red Cross through the blood drive was to collect as much blood as possible in order to restock the blood banks in several hospitals, and help to make contributions towards the community by taking part in saving of lives.

The blood drive was up and running in the gym from 8:30 to 1:30. With the helping hands of volunteers, the step towards blood donation, and the support from National Honors Society made a staggering difference.

The people donating blood were asked to drink lots of fluids before, and then were handed information packets that highlighted who can donate, how donating helps, and the requirements that need to be met for a safe donation. After reading through the information packet, a one-on-one interview was set up where the interviewer asked some questions

Photo credit: Riley Robinson

Elise Sullivan

Norwalk High student donating blood.

about the volunteer’s background, and further tests were performed which concluded whether they were eligible to give blood.

A staff member from the Red Cross, Kate Georgini, has been a part of this organization and has helped setup entire programs and run the blood drives across many schools and communities for nine years. She noted, “We create these drives so that many students can give back to their communities and help save lives. When the first time students come to donate blood they feel so good and motivated that a sense of purpose arises and they become life partners of Red Cross by donating every three months.”

This year, the turnout at the drive included familiar faces, including Mr. Seaburg, who has donated blood every year, as well as Ms. Docimo, who came to donate more than once that day.

The students who came were very active members of the Norwalk High School community. Giles Ruck (’17), said, “Donating before got me motivated to do it again,” which demonstrated his commitment towards helping others. Emma L’Archevesque (’17), claimed “It is my first time donating and this is an awesome opportunity,” and Juanita Vargas (’17) came to donate more than one time, who stated, “It feels really good when helping other people.”

Participation at blood drives is a great way of volunteering and helping others in need.

NEWS

4

Astronomy Club

Bears United Alexis Morelli Reporter

clude a Field Day, Christmas Party, Valentine’s Day activity, and a Cinco De Mayo Dance. The Halloween Party, which occurred on October 22nd in the cafeteria, featured cupcake decorating, costumes, snacks, and halloween games. Over twenty five people attended and enjoyed the music and games while hanging out with their pals.

Most recently, the Thanksgiving event took place on November 23 in the library, called the “Feast of Gratitude”. Some of the clubs members and teachers cooked Thanksgiving foods and desserts, including pumpkin bread, pies, and cakes.

Those at the party played “What’s in Your Mouth”, made a paper turkey showing what everyone was thankful for, and some danced to music. After the success of this event, the leaders of the club are now excitedly planning the upcoming holiday event.

Overall, Bears United is excited to enter into the 2016-2017 school year with its new members, pals, and program. “The club is going great this year. Honestly it started off a little rough because we’re all adjusting but it’s running more smoothly now and we hope to keep going in that positive direction,” said Laney.

Sabrina Rollings Reporter Every freshman is forewarned about the dangers of entering the Norwalk High School fourth floor. In fact, the majority of the school has never even seen what goes beyond third-floor-A house. The newly formed Astronomy Club is determined to change that.

With this new school year, a new club has been founded and formed that is over the moon for everything space related. Mr. Belmonte, who teaches Astronomy to juniors and seniors, came up with the idea to start a new club for students who were interested in the subject.

NHS Senior, Melania Olivieri (’17), was eager to join the new club. “I took his astronomy class last year and I loved that, so I thought the club would be a great idea,” said Olivieri (’17) She was a major help in forming the club, and has taken on the role of President. Other students have taken a liking to the idea as well, and the club currently has about twenty-five members and is hoping to grow throughout the year.

Most clubs are formed with a goal in mind, and the astronomy club is no exception. Unknown to many students, on the fourth floor of NHS there is an empty greenhouse. The fourth floor is rather a

roof than a floor, and past the dark doors is a light-filled glass room with loads of potential. The astronomy club decided to take advantage of the greenhouse. “The goal for our club is to get other people to join us and have the public join us as well to participate in viewings,” said Olivieri (’17).

The location of the greenhouse makes for perfect star-gazing and planet observation.

Making sure that the greenhouse was ready to be filled with observers was not easy. It took a large group of students who enjoy painting and staining wood to transform the dusty greenhouse into a clean observatory. “The first few weeks of the club we re-modeled the greenhouse,” said Oliveri (’17). “We painted it blue and added a few murals.

It was a great bonding experience.”

If you would like to be a part of this stellar club, stop

by Mr. Belmonte’s room, 312A, for more details. The club meets every Thursday at 2:30 in Belmonte’s room. Not all meetings are mandatory except for the last Thursday of every month.

If you are interested in gazing at the stars and being exposed to views that are out of this world, check out the Astronomy Club Instagram, @nhsastronomyclub, for updates on the viewing schedule! photo credit: nhsastronomyclub

The Bears United Club, once the Best Buddies Program, has started off the new school year with some exciting activities and changes. The club is newly independent from the national program Best Buddies, and is now a club unique to Norwalk High School. The club is run by the teachers Ms. Dellon and Mr. Gaspar and students Emily Dougherty (‘18) and Laney Morenberg (‘18). “Our club is a great club because it brings everyone together and creates an environment in which both the special education and regular education students are able to feel confident, comfortable, and surrounded by people that care about and accept them,” explained Laney Morenberg The Bears United Club is a club aimed at bringing special education students and other students at NHS together, hoping to build friendships that last through high school and beyond. Those who join the club are invited to the activities with the special education students, or pals. They have the opportunity to get to know the pals, hang out with them, and build a relationship.

Bears United activities occur all throughout the school year. Activities in-

December 2016

Mock Trial Club Reporter Many high schools nationwide participate in mock trial and Norwalk High School is one of them. There are over 300 schools that hold mock trial teams. As of September 2016, the Mock Trial Club has been active at Norwalk High.

Marisa Swanson (’18) and Gabriela Nunez (’18) are presidents of Norwalk High School’s first Mock Trial Club. “Mock trial is an extracurricular activity in which students participate in rehearsed trials where they are able to learn about the legal system in a competitive environment,” informed Swanson.

“I started the club this year after the Lord of the Flies mock trial. Lord of the Flies is a book that we read sopho-

more year in english class. The teachers presented the students with a case and we took on our given roles. I really wanted to continue with it but there was not a debate club or mock trial at Norwalk High,” stated Swanson. Nunez and Swanson took this opportunity to expand their passion and create their own Mock Trial Club.

Swanson explained, “So far this year, we have laid down the basic structure of how the club is going to be run in the sense that people have a clear understanding of each roles. The first case we chose is on the possession of marijuana due to the uproar on whether or not it should be legalized in all fifty states. Our trial took place the last time the club met and it was a success.”

A member of the club, Maya Goosmann (’19) described why she enjoys Mock Trial Club. “I like the Mock Trial Club because I get to learn a lot about law, and you get to play multiple roles in the court. You get to see dif-

NHS Bear Flop Olivia Opalinski Reporter The iconic Norwalk High School Bear Flop began in 2012, when a student got inspiration from a college they had seen doing a belly flop competition. Former student, Michael Bonebrake, had come to the Bears Beating Cancer club for help with running the first annual competition here at NHS. The event is meant for raising awareness and money for cancer while also bringing something for people to look forward to every year.

Each year, “usually about 10-15 teachers and 20-30 students” sign up for

ferent perspectives of everything. It’s really fun, and I’m really rooking forward to more trials.”

Both presidents of the Mock Trial Club have great goals for the club. One goal is for members of the club to develop a passion for the court system, as they both have. Nunez added, “The biggest goal we have for the club in the future is to attend the High School National Mock Trial competition in May, whether it be this year or in the following year.”

As of November, there are sixteen students participating in Mock Trial Club and the door is always open for new members to join who are also interested in Law, the Judicial System, or even drama. The club meets every other Tuesday at 2:30 pm in Mr. Von Arter’s room, 108A.

f

Photo Credit: Alex von Kleydorf

Madison Riascos

the competition says Mr. Anastasia, NHS teacher and Bears Beating Cancer adviser. In previous years, both teachers and students have dressed up in crazy costumes to entertain the crowd before their splash.

The money raised from ticket sales and from each flopper went towards Norwalk Hospital’s Whittingham Cancer Center. Anastasia said the overall goal of the event is to “give the students of Norwalk High something meaningful to do after school.” In addition, with it being held around 2:45, students had an easier time attending the event and did not have to worry about how they would get there.

“This year we are bringing back all the

former champions,” states Anastasia “they are automatically put into the finals and do not have to go through the preliminary rounds.” Among these champions were Mr. Reynolds, Mr. Singleton, Mr. Passamano and Bradley siblings, Grace and Kevin.

These five had previously been awarded first place by the judges they have each year. “We have three judges: Coach Ire-

land, Mr. O’Shaughnessy and Norwalk Hospital’s President, Mike Daglio,” said Anastasia.

This year, the competition that included the champion-filled round was held on December 14th at Norwalk High’s pool.

Students and teachers alike showed up to support the good cause and their peers as they flopped into the water. If any students were not able to attend this year’s Bear Flop, make sure to mark your calendars now so you do not miss out on the fun for next year.

NEWS

December 2016

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Pettibone’s Final Candlelight Q: What is candlelight?

A: “Candlelight is the oldest holiday concert in New England. It started in 1933 or 1937. The only time that we

Madison Riascos Reporter This year will be Mrs.Pettibone’s last year conducting candlelight before her retirement. Mrs. Pettibone became the choir director in 1995. She is currently head of the music department at Norwalk High School and has decided that after almost twenty-two years, it is finally time to say goodbye.

Before working at NHS, Pettibone worked with music teaching at an elementary school for five years. Pettibone was in and out between Nathan Hale Middle School and NHS. She stated that most people did not know who she was at Norwalk High because she was always moving between the two.

Q: Have you enjoyed working in the music department at NHS? A: “Absolutely, it has been wonderful because it taught me to open up a whole new level of creativity. It has been hard work but it is very satisfying because I can be creative, I can try things out, and I enjoy the kids a lot. I think I’m very lucky to have a job that I love very much.”

Q: How do you feel about Candlelight?

A: “I love candlelight, It’s my favorite thing all year. It’s a lot of work but it’s an awful lot of fun. Every year I do something a little different, just to try out new things. It depends on the kids you have and the talent, that’s how it evolves really.”

didn't do candlelight was for two years in the middle of WWII. Norwalk is right on the coast, and they had what they would call a blackout. Every night, no one could have lights on because they were afraid that they would

High Road Chris Muralles Reporter Recently, the High Road program of Norwalk integrated with Norwalk High School, replacing the old day-care center with the new program.

The High Road program of Norwalk is located on 17 North Ave. and still has students that attend class there. The school is a K-12 program for students with behavioral and/or social disabilities. These students are not Norwalk residents though; the students that attend class on 17 North Ave. are out-of-district students. High Road students that do reside in Norwalk attend class in the new facility at Norwalk

High.

Students have the liberty to exempt themselves from class if they are not concentrated. In a classroom, there is a section where students may go and relax if they are feeling stressed. There are pillows and bean bag chairs provided so that students feel comfortable. “Students are allowed four breaks a day,” according to Ms. Nicholson, the program’s social worker, “If a student comes in one day and is feeling stressed or is having troubles outside of school, then we talk to the student and may

grant them more breaks.”

Contrary to this voluntary confinement, students may be placed in a room if they are causing harm to others or are being disobedient. “Students are only placed in the quiet rooms if they are being harmful to others or disobedient. It is used as a last resort and it has been used a few times this year,” says Ms. Nicholson. The program uses a point system to monitor students’ behavior and success. Students can earn up to twenty-eight points in a day and may be denied points for misbehavior.

Students enter the building at 8:30 am and place their coats in a closet along with any electronic device they have. “We place the electronic devices in the closet because we want students to be fully concentrated during the day and have no distractions,” says Mr. Singleton.

They are given back their devices at the end of the day, which is at 2:30, fifteen minutes after everyone else at NHS. There are currently three teachers at the program, two of whom teach classes while the other one oversees the entire program. Along with these teachers is a social worker, Ms. Nicholson, reserved only for the High Road students.

Teachers that instruct special education programs have degrees that certify them to teach every subject necessary.

Overall, the transition has been successful. According to Mr. Singleton, it has been an “overwhelming success… You couldn’t tell the difference between a High Road student and a regular NHS student.”

The teachers in the program look forward to continuing the success here at NHS.

be attacked by the German army. They had mandatory blackouts so we couldn't have candlelight at night, like we traditionally did, but it came back in 1944. Currently, the audience of Candlelight is made up of about 5,000 people.”

Q: Who participates in Candlelight?

A: “All of the choirs, all of the orchestras, and all of the bands. But, not everyone participates during the actual candlelight program. Some of them, the orchestras and the bands, play beforehand in the lobby. Everyone in the music department participates, and we have other techies who come in and they aren’t technically in the music department but they come help.”

Q: Who runs Candlelight?

A: “It’s a group effort. It takes all three of us to make it work. It’s a big production and it takes a lot of help. Mr. Couture comes in and helps me with decorations. Mrs. Delong and Mr. Franco come in sometimes and help me with the amount of children I have, almost 250, helping with getting people where they’re supposed to be.”

Q: How do you feel about this being your last candlelight?

A: “I have mixed feelings. I was rehearsing one day and then I realized that this was my last candlelight. I think that it will be good to hand the torch over to somebody else. I am sure that I will miss it. It has been fun. I like to go out with a positive attitude.”

Q: Is there anything else you’d like to add?

A: “Candlelight is December 19th, 20th, and 21st at 8:00 pm. Come see it! We’re going to have fun this year.”

2017 Peru Trip Melissa Hawkes Reporter

El once de febrero, por nueve días, un selecto grupo de estudiantes y chaperones se aventuran fuera del país y al Perú para ver una de las siete maravillas del mundo, y ayudar a las personas necesitadas.

“We are going to Lima, Peru, and then we’re actually traveling to what they call the Sacred Valley, in Cusco. In the heart of the Sacred Valley sits one of the seven wonders of the world, Machu Picchu. We also have a special treat for everybody at the top of Machu Picchu. It’s a secret, I can’t tell you what it is, but you are going to be amazed,” said the teacher advisor of the trip, Ms. Kopple.

As well as touring the Sacred Valley, the group is spending two full days doing community service with a local Andean community. “The Andes are these incredible mountains, and these amazing rural communities are living their lives connected to the Earth, connected to their culture, but they are in desperate need of resources and support,” Ms.Kopple explained. The two possible projects that the group is working on are with a preschool, and the other is with a group of the Andean knitting women. Ms. Kopple added,“These are a group of women that

knit and weave to support their families and communities. Their ability to do that, the sustainability and resources that they require is what we will be assisting them with.” The service project decision has not yet been finalized, however both are valued and needed by the community.

In addition to touring the Sacred Valley, the students also get the chance to be a part of a guided tour around Lima where they will visit the famous shopping district of Miraflores, a historic monastery, and the Larco museum. In Urubamba on the third day, “Students are also going to be diving into the world of ceramics and pottery. We’re going to be working with a world renowned ceramics artisan.” Ms. Kopple said.

Ms. Kopple concluded, “For me, the purpose of this trip is to give an opportunity for students to just completely immerse themselves in the idea of true culture and community service.This is such a beautiful group of students adults and people that want this experience, and we’re going to be bringing back a whole world of experiences and a new understanding of culture in this very unique society.”

Es demasiado tarde para inscribirse hoy, pero para todo el mundo que se va, diviértete!

It is too late to sign up now, but for everyone going, have fun!

NHS goes on several trips every year. Talk to Guidance to learn more.

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Vine’s Loving Tribute Mackenzie Lowden Co - Editor in Chief Founded in June 2012 by Dom Hofmann, Rus Yusupov, and Colin Kroll, Vine, the app and the company that created it, acquired by Twitter, is officially shutting down.

This app allowed users to record and upload six second videos, many of which became major parts of pop culture and are still referenced today.

Twitter has recently let go about 9% of employees due to financial issues. According to pastemagazine.com, “Vine was cut because the company just couldn’t make money off it and didn’t have the finances to keep their staff around.”

Advertising was not a strong suit for the company either. Due to the fact that the videos were not very lengthy, other companies did not show much interest in the app itself. “Marketers and advertisers ultimately gave up on Vine since it wasn’t a sustainable advertising model, and instead, they went to Instagram, Snapchat and Facebook,” (pastemagazine.com).

Although Vine did not carry its popularity, there were a number of stars known for their shortly equipped videos posted on Vine, one of them being Shawn Mendes.

Mendes is a well known eighteen year old singer-songwriter, most known for his song entitled “Stitches.” He was discovered when he began uploading covers of songs on his personal account on Vine, the first video being “As Long As You Love Me” by Justin Bieber.

Like any other app, Vine was very popular at the start and eventually worked its way to the top of the list on the iTunes App Store. According to techcrunch.com, “At one point, Vine had more than 200 million active users, yet it struggled to maintain traction and saw a decline in popularity in recent months.”

Soon after its short term of popularity, the spark of it died. However, “the website and apps will remain online for the time being, and users will be given a chance to download their Vine videos ahead of its official closure,” (techcrunch. com).

Vine stars are now transitioning onto different platforms such as Instagram and Snapchat due to the fact that Vine is no longer around for them to continue their six seconds of fame.

Classic Comebacks of Disney Gavin Halsey Reporter As the year is coming to a close many of us have new opportunities and plans for the upcoming year. This has also been the case for Disney as plans of 2 returns to the big screen and television are underway. The hit comedy “That’s so Raven” and the Disney classic “High School Musical” are both making comebacks in 2017.

Back in 2003 Raven Symone was the star of the hit TV show called “That’s so Raven” with her co stars Orlando Brown and Anneliese van der Pol playing her two best friends and becoming one of the most recognizable trios in the current generation. Many that grew up watching will be happy to hear that in an interview with ‘The View’ it was announced that a spin off dubbed “That’s so Raven 2” will be in production soon for the upcoming year.

“This time I will be playing a single mother with two kids and one of them is going to learn that she has visions.” says Raven Symone. “I’m executive producer so that is why i have been super busy!”

To bring another throw back into the mix, it has been rumored that a ‘High School Musical 4’ is a big topic for 2017. It allegedly was started back before the release of HSM3, however, a rocky relationship between the two main characters Zac Efron and Vanessa Hudgens might have to do with the push back of the return. The rocky past of these two stars have also sparked questioning on the recasting of the film.

New generations of students are reported to be attending East High, which indicates the previous cast may not be on board. The new main character played by Campbell Evans will reportedly be taking the spot of Efron. He will be the new captain of the team and play the role of Sharpay Evan’s (Ashley Tisdale) cousin. Playing the role of

his love interest and co star has been rumored to be Taylor Swift, but it is too early to confirm. Disney is pulling out all of the stops to revive the old for the new wave of TV in 2017.

10% off for all students and teachers

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December 2016

7

Fuller House: Season Two Olivia Opalinski The beloved American sitcom, Full House, aired its final episode on May 23rd, 1995. Heartbroken fans around the country thought this would be the last time they would ever hear the corny jokes of Joey Gladstone, played by Dave Coulier or hear the cute catchphrases of Michelle Tanner played by Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen. Little did they know, that twenty-one years later, this San Francisco based show would be airing its sequel on Netflix.

With Fuller House’s first episode being released on February 24th, 2016 the series immediately received loads of support from both old and new fans everywhere. The show follows a widowed DJ Tanner as she tries to balance life as a single parent with three crazy boys, while receiving help from her sister Stephanie Tanner and fan favorite, Kimmy Gibler who also has a daughter of her own.

Together, the family experiences the funny moments of life while trying to juggle their everyday obstacles. Not to mention giving sentimental advice to the audience, just like the one and only Danny Tanner, played by Bob Sag-

AHS Roanoke Hannah Keyes co-editor in chief

Scream

it becomes particularly bad on the night of a blood moon where the spirits are free to roam around and kill as they please. Shelby and Matt share their story on a TV show and become famous. Their survival story was reenacted and the show becomes a hit. However, things turn sour as they decide to go back to the house for a sequel to the show.

If one is wondering what happens and wants to find out more, then be sure to watch American Horror Story.

Photo credit: Reddit user /u/ZedzDEMIZie

Season six of FX’s popular television series, American Horror Story, entitled My Roanoke Nightmare, recently wrapped up. It regularly challenged its audience with its variety pack of creepy ghosts, man-eating rednecks and reality television.

Creators Ryan Murphy and Brad Falchuk are also the creators of the ended TV show, Glee. The two series could not be any more different from each other as one is based on horror and drama, while the other is based upon music and comedy.

Each season of American Horror Story takes place in a new setting, with new characters. Previous seasons include, Murder House, Asylum, Coven, Freakshow, Hotel, and now, My Roanoke Nightmare. This season was a new take on what has already been a completely unique and possibly revolutionary show.

This season specifically was ever so scary, focusing on the lost colony of Roanoke. Two characters Shelby and Matt Miller move into a mansion house that lies directly on the grounds of where the lost colony was killed by a character named “The Butcher,” who had sold her soul to a witch. Shelby and Matt are haunted by the ghosts that live on the property, and

Photo credit: Netflix.com

Reporter

et, had done in the original series. The show stars other old characters including Aunt Becky and DJ’s ex-boyfriend, Steve. It also introduces new characters including DJ’s children (Jackson, Max, and Tommy), and Kimmy’s daughter, Ramona, played by Soni Nicole Bringas.

On December 9th, 2016, the spin-off series was released for the second season on Netflix. The season’s trailer has already been viewed nearly 2 million times in less than a week.

In this upcoming season viewers can expect to see some of DJ’s high school acquaintances including the wealthy Nelson Burkhard and the snooty Kathy Santoni.

According to TV Line, people will also get to meet Joey’s new wife, Ginger, and according to Candace Cameron-Bure, the new kids on the show will be getting more screentime.

By now, some people may have already finished this season, so now all they have to do is wait for number three.

Until then, people can catch up on the first season if they have not already or maybe even have a Full House marathon and watch the original eight seasons that will be sure to please.

Maria Saldana Reporter “Scream” has been renewed for a third season, and the growing fanbase will finally be aware about the missing pieces in Brandon James’ story.

The Halloween special has left fans waiting for the truth, and it will be told with just six episodes in the new season.

In the Halloween special, a new killer was created, leaving Emma Duval to fight the killer off once again. However, it was not one of the Lakewood Six who went insane and killed everyone, like in season two. It was a new character that had watched Duval suffer at the hands of two killers, and he had felt as if she and him had belonged together because he has dealt with murder as well.

Alex Whitten, the mysterious new character, had the main protagonist chasing after him, which is why she did not fathom the fact that he was the killer. Whitten had purposely gotten Emma to develop a crush on him, and he made her feel as if she was safe, so that he would

not have been suspected. However, what remained of the Lakewood Six had found out about Alex Whitten’s true nature while they were snooping around his mansion.

It turned out that Whitten had been obsessed with Duval ever since he laid eyes on her on a television screen, which scared her. He had felt a connection with her, considering the fact that his parents were murdered as well, and he had been tormented as a child by the media. He killed the new characters, and he died once Emma pushed him off the balcony.

As one can clearly see, the Halloween special was filled with new thrills, but it turned out that Alex Whitten did not kill Kieran Wilcox in prison, so this left fans pondering about the first killer, Brandon James.

The low ratings on the show had created speculation about season three becoming cancelled, but six episodes were already confirmed, and the truth about Brandon James will finally be revealed. There will no longer be secrets, the truth will be revealed, and Brandon James’ true nature will be exposed.

Doctor Strange Movie Review Jamie Phillips Opinion Editor

Photo credit: Gamespot.com

Scott Derrickson, the director mostly known for his horror movies such as Sinister or Deliver Us from Evil, has created the newest film in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, titled Dr. Strange. This new film has breathtaking visuals, a solid plot, good acting, and an engaging story.

Benedict Cumberbatch, the actor who plays Dr. Strange, does an excellent job portraying his character throughout the stories development. Starting off as intensely unlikeable, Cumberbatch plays an arrogant and narcissistic doctor with little regards for anyone around him. As the plot progresses, Cumberbatch portrays his character more humbly and empathetically which, alongside the writing, forces the viewer to forgive Strange’s misgivings and give him a second chance.

The visuals in this film are, for the most part, nothing short of stunning. The use of computer generated effects makes the magic that Strange and his peers practice feel truly real. Action scenes are fast paced and make use of the

same effects, making for intense battles between dueling sorcerers. The only place where these graphics fall short are the few times where moviegoers get a face-on view of Strange flying at breakneck speeds through some type of inter dimensional portal. The way that these particular scenes are orchestrated makes green screen useage obvious, something which breaks the immersion of an otherwise engaging experience.

Dr. Strange’s story is unique and compelling. Based on the original comics by Stan Lee and Steve Ditko, Scott Derrickson has converted their work, like others have done with many other marvel stories, to a cinematic experience.

The story develops at a comfortable pace, taking care to not drag on in the less exciting parts without leaving plot holes due to scenes being cut.

Dr. Strange is a film that, like many other Marvel movies, will excite both critics and the average viewer.

Because it has such an engaging plot, great acting, and incredible special effects, Dr. Strange deserves 4.5 stars.

A&E

8

Spotlight

December 2016

Girl on the Train

Christopher Muralles

Riley Robinson

Reporter

Photo Editor

The Church would probably be the last place one would think of when hearing of rape and molestation, however, journalists in the early 2000s from the Boston Globe uncovered the horrid truth that a Catholic priest from Boston was molesting children.

The movie Spotlight follows reporters Michael Rezendes, Sacha Pfeiffer, and Matt Carroll as they venture to uncover the truth that the Catholic Church tried so desperately to hide. They were part of the “secret” investigative sub-group of the Boston Globe that worked on cases too long or too severe to release to the public without complete assurance of its truth. The movie is critically acclaimed, having won awards such as the Academy Award for Best Picture (2015) and Best Supporting Actor (Mark Ruffalo).

The story begins with victims coming forward, years after their abuse, to condemn the Church for what they did. Phil Saviano, head of the Survivors Network of those Abused by Priests (SNAP), weighs in on the investigation, estimating that as many as thirteen priests in the Boston area, have abused and molested children.

Continuing with a lead of thirteen priests, the Spotlight team receives new insight on just how many priests could be considered in having molested chil-

dren. Richard Shipe, a former priest who works on trying to rehabilitate pedophiliac priests, estimates that as many as ninety priests in Boston can be accused of molesting chidren through the Church.

With this new estimate, the team hurries to find documents that might explain why Mr. Shipe has such an unfathomable estimate. By relentlessly studying Church archives, the team learns that eighty-seven priests were on excused leave from their duty, meaning, these priests were guilty of child molestation and that Cardinal Law hid them intentionally so that neither his reputation nor the Church’s would suffer with these new revelations.

Perhaps the last vital component of the whole story surfaces towards the end of the investigation. The last piece of the puzzle is the most surprising one.

Spotlight is an excellent representation of the real story which broke the hearts of many Bostonians, which also led to international investigations in various different countries. The film managed to raise awareness about the obscene attempts by the Church to cover up the rape and molestation of thousands of children.

The Girl on the Train was originally a novel written by Paula Hawkins. The film adaptation is directed by Tate Taylor.

Synopsis: Rachel’s daily train commute stops across from two houses. One is the home of her ex-husband and his new family. The other houses filled with the “perfect couple.” Megan goes missing one night when Rachel is blackout drunk, and Rachel wonders if she is at fault.

As the mystery unfolds, it turns out the characters are connected in more ways than they originally thought.

The Girl on the Train is like the stereotypical smoke filled room: mysterious, boozy, and occasionally erupting in violence.

This sluggish thriller is an adaptation of Paula Hawkins’s bestselling novel.

Though the film adaptation kept the novel’s multi-narrator format, Emily Blunt as the alcoholic Rachel truly carries the storyline. Rachel has hit rock bottom: she spends her days riding the Metro-North train to nowhere, sipping vodka out of her water bottle, and fantasizing about the “perfect couple” who live just across the tracks where the train stops routinely. The fantasy couple, Scott and Meghan Hipwell (Luke Evans and Haley Bennet) also happen to live next door to Rachel’s ex-husband Tom (Justin Theroux) and his mistress-turned-

wife Anna (Rebecca Ferguson). When Megan goes missing, Rachel thinks she was involved, and the plot becomes a suburban version of incestuous small town drama.

The characters are linked in ways the audience cannot originally see.

The Girl on the Train has its downfalls as it chugs slowly out of the station. Most of the action is reserved for the climactic ending. Rachel spends most of her time sifting through her own thoughts and memories, but not really doing much that gets to the truth. While the audience sees Megan and Anna’s perspectives for a short while, these scenes do not do much to explain or expand upon their personalities. Maybe this is why the audience lacks a character that is really worth cheering on. Fortunately, these blurred lines between the good guys and the bad make the dark and twisty ending all the more absorbing.

The key to surprise here is the unreliable narration. As Rachel’s memories surface in bursts and false starts, the audience’s perception about what happened to Megan is dependent on how Rachel tells the story. Because she is the narrator, we too quickly believe that everything we see from her point of view is true.

This happens to be a well-timed cautionary tale. In a time where few trust the media, The Girl on the Train reminds viewers to check the source, not just the facts.

Evolution of Playae Royale Asha Locke Reporter If you remember Radio Disney’s N.B.T., then one may remember some former contestants such as a band of three young brothers known as Kropp Circle from 2008.

Kropp Circle is not the main focus, but rather what became of their artistry. The three brothers had grown into the artists that they needed to be. In 2011, they became Palaye Royale and further developed into talented multi-faceted musicians.

This fashion/art rock band is comprised of Remington Leith (vocalist), Sebastian Danzig (guitarist/organist) and Emerson Barrett (drummer). Their journey to becoming performers started when they were the ages of four, six, and two respectively.

Each member represents a different and unique style to this time period. Leith is a rockstar in every sense of the word, because of the way he uses clothing like layering necklaces and wearing suspenders with mesh tops. Danzig seems almost as if he jumped right out of the 70s, wearing velvet coats, silk scarves, and tall knee high boots. Not to forget Barrett who is not only the pirate of the band, but the artist for their albums

visual aesthetic. He dresses down wearing top hats, silk shirts, and winklepickers also known as pointy toe shoes.

Palaye Royale has been touring the country this year for 225 days. Their endeavors in performing live music have recently gotten a boost in popularity. In March 2014, MTV hosted their coveted March Musical Madness, and Palaye Royale won with their single ¨Get Higher,¨ while being the first unsigned artist to win.

With those triumphs by their side, they have also released two albums, one being an EP (extended play album) titled “The Ends Beginning” with 6 songs, released on July 1st, 2013. The other being more recent, having been released on their first day of this year’s “Vans Warped Tour,” on June 24th and is titled “Boom Boom Room (Side A)” Their success is only beginning and is constantly growing. They are signed to Sumerian Records and are currently recording “Boom Boom Room (Side B).” Become a fan and catch up on their music, so when Side B comes out you will be ready to get groovy.

The Downfall of Hollywood Emma Daignault Reporter There is something about watching an old iconic movie that just gives one a nostalgic feeling, even if one may have been born 40 years after it came out.

Hollywood today consists mostly of remakes or just really crappy series such as the whole DC scene is just too overdone. The ice age series consists of five movies with a sixth one possibly on it’s way. No one ever hears about how today there is a classic movie coming out, simply because none of them will be classic. They just are not that good anymore.

In the month of October 2016 alone Hollywood will be releasing three movies that are book adaptations, four that are part of a series and five that are original films, but who knows how original they are. Honesty, Hollywood is just out of ideas. They have started remaking lots of old

classics for a past few years now such as Willy Wonka and the chocolate factory (1974) 12 angry men, Annie, and Beauty and the beast. Sequels are usually big in Hollywood today such as the Jason Bourne series.

Mr.O’Shaughnessy a teacher at Norwalk High says “Usually sequels kind of suck, it’s different writers different cast.”Although they are not remaking the classics “If they remake the sound of music it will be called back to the Alps” or if they remake the The Godfather it will be called “-the godson” Hollywood has definitely changed over the years. “It was like a machine back then each

studio had an entourage of actors that that would play lots of different characters.” Stated Mr.O Today there is a lot more competition but a lot less ideas 30 years ago in October of 1986 six original films came out one book adaptation and one sequel. Hollywood has been heavily relying on books to keep them making movies. Books such as The Lord of the Rings, The Chronicles of Narnia, James and the Giant Peach little woman as well as many more have been turned into books over the last twenty years.

If Hollywood does not start coming up with ideas, the movie business may be going down hill soon.

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STAFF BOX The Paw Print

This is Your Time Mackenzie Lowden Co-Editor In Cheif

T

Norwalk High School 23 Calvin Murphy Drive Norwalk, CT (203) 838-4481 The Paw Print would like to thank all journalism students for their work in the creation of the paper.

Advisor Mr. Karl Co-Editors in Chief Mackenzie Lowden Hannah Keyes ______Designers______ News Editor Elise Sullivan

he entire duration of one’s educational career is the time where a person’s life really counts towards their future. This is the time to give it your all and to get your life together in order for success to come in the near future.

From the beginning of a person’s life to the end, one will definitely run into many conflicts.

These may or may not affect their point of view on the true meaning of life and what it means to them. However, it is their job to get themselves through it and to not give up. Giving up shows the type of person you are. This is the time where you fight through your troubles and make things right again by having a set image of what you truly want, where you want to be/go in life, and how you are going to get there.

Everyone has their own mindset as to where they want their life to lead to. They know how successful they really want to be, what career they want to take over, etc. However, with little to no effort put towards one’s education, they will not get anywhere in life or succeed the goal set that they wish to achieve. A lot of this effort that is performed is affected by the procrastination of a numerous amount of people.

Sports Editor Matt Gola Business Manager Avinav Gupta Photo Editors Riley Robinson Isaac Keehn Staff Writers Ainsley Ludger Alexis Morelli Asha Locke Christiana Joyner Chris Muralles De-Aja Cogswell Eddie McCabe Emma Daignault Gavin Halsey Kira Cusik Madison Riascos Maria Saldana Melissa Hawkes Olivia Opalinski Bobby Gummer Sabrina Rollings

POLICY: Our newspaper reserves the right to edit all submissions for space and clarity. All entries must include name, year in school, and phone number for verification. The opinions expressed in the opinion section are those of the writers, not the entire staff.

Procrastination: “the action of delaying or postponing something.” This is what many of us do, myself included. To put studying or doing homework aside to binge watch Netflix, take a nap, to go out and party, or whatever it is that one would prefer to do, is not the ideal scenario for success. This is yet another issue that this generation has.

This is the time to brace yourself for what your purpose in life will be, however, putting other unnecessary tasks that could be done at anytime before what needs to be completed, will screw one over in the long one when they go to take the next step of their lives.

After graduating from high school and eventually from college, one will soon come to the conclusion that they will not get the “guidance” that they would expect. This is where the reality of life kicks in and will finally hit you. Although, many people still get stuck in the past. What the main focus needs to be, is to simply just have the mindset of “here and now.” Focusing on what will be, will definitely benefit one in the near future.

My main intention with this article, is to spread awareness that this part of your life is what will affect you in the long run. Life is a lesson well learned and the fate of yours is in your own hands. This is your time.

Dear Teachers, Hannah Keyes

Opinion Editor Jamie Phillips Social Media & A/E Editor Sara Roman

EDITORIAL

Co-Editor In Cheif

U

ndoubtedly, there can sometimes be friction between teachers and students, both sides frantically pointing fingers at each other. I would like for teachers at Norwalk High School to analyze the words that proceed, and consider their significance in relation to yourself as a teacher. This is not meant to generalize teachers or be offensive, it is simply a student perspective on minute habitual patterns I have noticed among teachers and of which many students can attest to.

Time management is a virtue that many teachers attempt to instill within their students, through the allocation of the often dreaded, homework. Teachers create due dates and expect that the assignment be turned in on this exact day, no later. If it is turned in even a day late, either points are taken off or it is an immediate zero. A student may spend hours studying for a test or working on an essay or project. The set expectations that many teachers hold are that their students will invest time and effort into their class, spending at least a couple hours in preparation for tests, or in creating specified assignments. If teachers are to set their students to these standards, then it is only fair for a student to have their own set expectations regarding their teachers, one of which is grading in a timely manner.

Now, of course there are students who could care less about a class or their grades. However, that is not the category of students I wish to represent. I want to represent the students who care immensely about their grades and future. With this being said, teachers, please keep in mind how hard many students work, and how there is a lot to balance. There are students with multiple AP/honors classes, athletic practices or games every day of the week, a part-time job, musical concerts, etc. who manage to do their homework and study for all of their classes. It is simply cordial and logical to have the assignment graded not only fairly, but within decent timing. This student made the time for your class and your work on top of everything else a student often has to juggle.

Many teachers have multiple choice tests that are scantrons, where the tests are scanned and it is graded right then and there. It boggles my mind when a scantron test is given back nearly three weeks after it had been taken. Sometimes a test or essay may not be handed back until a month or more has passed and by that time, one has forgotten about it completely. If this is the case, a student cannot be expected to learn from their mistakes if they can hardly remember even making that mistake in the first place. In one course I have taken, the teacher never was able to grade many of the given assignments during first quarter. There were even essays that this teacher never put into powerschool. To me, this is wasted time, effort, and stress. And quite frankly, it makes me upset.

Understandably, teachers may not have the time to grade or put grades into powerschool because teachers have lives outside of school, just as students do. Also, many teachers have nearly one hundred or more students to take into consideration and grade. If this is the case, I advise teachers to not assign more work than they can handle.

I encourage all teachers to break the barriers that separate them and their students, to be both considerate and accommodating, and be someone whom your students will always remember and regard highly.

OPINION

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GMO = GM-NO? Matt Gola

Sports Editor Over the past two years, genetically modified organisms (GMOs) used in crops has seen a decrease in overall yields with an increase in pesticide use. This dip in effectiveness sheds doubt on the promised bounty of GMOs, a vital tool in modern day crop growth?

First developed in the early 1990s, beginning with the Flavr Savr tomato which was supposed to stay fresh longer, GMO seeds and crops have been used on farms throughout the United States.

Since its inception into agricultural use in 1996 by Monsanto, the largest developer of GMO seeds in the US, engineered crops have proven to be more

nutritious than their organic counterparts; and more environmentally friendly thanks to the ability to conserve water, soil, and energy.

For almost two decades, the GMO crops did exactly what they had been designed to do: Successfully fought of droves of insects and required less of both pesticides and herbicides. However, after this golden age of GMOs, it seems that insects and damaging weed strains have begun to mutate and develop resistances to modern pesticides and herbicides.

Along with an increase in pesticide and herbicide use, the overall yield of GMO crops has declined over the past two years. With the issue of the safety and health risks of GMOs laid to rest, the most prominent issue facing the use of genetically engineered crops in the US right now

is how much they can actually help to increase yields. Opponents to GMOs cite the fact that, between 2014 and 2015, GMO crop yields have plateaued and declined.

They feel that because GMO crops are longer displaying their proposed benefits Consistent crop yields and innate traits that reduce pesticide usage - they are now not worth their sizeable price.

However, GMO opponents do not see the whole picture. Since their inception into widespread agricultural use in 1996, GMO crop yields and GMO crop hectares have risen every year for two decades. A hectare is an agricultural unit of measurement used to plan farm land; one hectare equals 100 acres. Over the past two decades, GMO farm land has increased by an average of 10 million hectares every year.

This type of model can only be held for so long, as the amount of farmable land set aside for GMO crops is finite. In 2014, the amount of intended GMO plantings de-

creased by 700,000 hectares (23 percent) due to droughts in several GMO farming countries. From these numbers, it is clear to see that the decline in GMO crop yields over the past two years was not caused by their inability to display their benefits, it was caused by a fundamental lack of farmable land.

In summation, while mutations in weed and insect populations have led to the herbicide/pesticide resistance of most GMO crops to be almost obsolete, the crops’ ability to yield a consistent harvest over time is not refuted. The nutritional and environmental benefits of biologically engineered crops still make them a vital part of the US’ agricultural system.

NHS Computers RE: Religion Bobby Gummer Reporter In today’s age of technology a student should be able to use a decent computer whenever they need to at school. However, this is not the case at Norwalk High School which is filled with slow and unreliable computers.

Around the school, one will be able to use a beaten up chromebook with a greasy and broken keyboard. It is perplexing to think that students like to remove keys from the keyboard and either switch them up or throw them out.

Not only is the chromebook’s hardware in bad shape but the functionality as a computer is very poor. It can take minutes to open a website even when the WiFi is actually working. This is very concerning for a device especially one, in which its sole purpose is to browse the web.

In the resource centers, the desktops are a tad bit better, however they are still not ideal. Like the chromebooks, the desktops are very slow and can rarely get a task done efficiently.

The computer issue would not be as big of a deal if students could reliably ac-

cess them when needed. All of the resource centers and the library require a pass from a teacher to use the technology. Yet it is not uncommon to find one of these rooms closed or used by a class.

Besides the clear lack of functionality the computers serve, they also are breeding grounds with germs and bacteria. The keyboards never seem to be cleaned and touching them would introduce harmful antibodies.

The library also has a new rule which denies any student with an open end period to use the library unless they have a pass. With the new block scheduling, many students do not have an assigned study hall on their schedule and instead just an “Open End” period. This rule is ridiculous as a student can be turned away from the library if they need to use it and have a free period.

Students are not alone when it comes to the lack of good computers, as teachers have to make do with even more unreliable, slow computers as well.

One would think if the school has a budget to buy new blinds for the entire school, they could invest in some better computers to suit the students and staff.

Alexis Morelli Reporter In the last issue of the PawPrint, an article was written explaining why the author disagrees with religion or why religion is unbeneficial in the world. In this article I hope to present a countering opinion.

I would like to offer the idea that both religion and having faith in a supreme being or God is not an evil in the world, but instead something that can bring people hope into an otherwise scary world.

After researching a few religions, including Islam, Christianity, and Judaism, all of them are centered around an unimaginable hope; the idea that better things are yet to come, to a level we almost can not comprehend. There is no way to provide solid factual evidence to argue any one religion is correct or that all religions are wrong, because it is a matter of faith in a God and a system of living out that faith to make the world a better place. Personal faith in these religions that help one live a life of such extreme and brilliant hope, however, is one worth attempting to live, or at least learning about.

Religion also ushers in love where hate may otherwise be present. Most religions are centered around love and community.

Muslims gather to fast or practice Sabaat, the five daily prayers. The men of the Islamic community also gather on Fridays to pray Jummah prayer, because praying and acting as a community is valued. In some Buddhist religions dance and song are used by Buddhists to practice their religion as a group. In Christianity, people

The Un-Common Core Olivia Opalinski Reporter For anyone who has not already noticed, the current education system is heavily flawed, not just in Norwalk, but all over the country.

In 2009, the Common Core State Standards were launched, intended to prepare students for college and ultimately their future career. Regardless of where they live or what school they attend, each student is guaranteed this education.

These standards have been used by over forty states and the topic could not get any more controversial. According to the

official website, this is “a set of high-quality academic standards in mathematics, and English language arts/literacy (ELA).” The system is designed to tell the students what they should know and what they should be able to do by the end of each school year.

However this is a problem for multiple reasons, one being because every child’s mind is different. Every single person has their own individual way of learning, whether it be visually, audibly, etc.

The standards of the common core creates something that each student is expected to live up to. This not only limits them from expressing new ideas they may have, but also has them trying to live up to expectations that have been created.

School is no longer about learning or preparing oneself for the future. Students are now more worried about memorizing what they need to know for a quiz or test.

Therefore they never actually get to understand what they are learning. They are more focused on what their report card will say, rather than what they spent the past school year reviewing.

In addition, the states when adopting these standards do not always have the students’ best interests in mind, but rather what they will get out of it. According to Williamson M. Evers’ article on the Hoover Institution website, the Obama administration “...used competitive grants to coerce states into adopting Common Core.

are to love each other and pray with and for each other as a way of praising God. Many people find peace in their religion or faith, using it in their day to day life, while also attempting to bring this love and peace to others.

Nearly every religion I have learned about, experienced, or seen practiced brings more love, hope, and community into the world. As with anything, there are exceptions because people misuse a religious system for a personal gain or interpret it differently than intended. Some people use religion for evil.

Many people are not fully educated on their religion. Abandoning or disagreeing with religion on the basis of these few cases is something that seems illogical. If a life full of love, community, and hope is offered to you, turning it down without at least looking into it seems unlikely and nonsensical.

As French philosopher Blaise Pascal said in the seventeenth-century, all humans bet with their lives either that God exists or that God does not. Pascal argued that a rational person should live as though God does exist and should live to believe in God. If God actually does exist the eternal reward is huge. However if one lives a life against God, and God does exists, the punishment could be horrible.

For argument sake, say that when you die, it turns out there is no God. If, say, you expected to see Jesus, or God, or some other form of everlasting life and it is not there.

Living a life of loving others, of trying to improve the world, of peace and hope, does not seem to be one that was wasted.

It paid for Common Core national tests and intervened in the test-creation process.”

This basically means that the Obama administration persuaded the states to adopt the standards, by paying them.

The standards also put a time limit into learning. The school year is dedicated to having the child learn certain skills by the end of June which puts stress on students to complete the tasks they are told to.

Often times, if one does not fully grasp the concept by the end of the year, they will not be able to move on with their peers.

These uniform standards ignore the fact that not everyone learns the same way despite the fact that there is no evidence that by putting everyone at the same

OPINION

14

December 2016

Include Women in Recruitment Riley Robinson Photo Editor It is fairly common to see a Marine Corps recruiter in the Norwalk High School cafeteria during lunch. Even the tablecloth invokes images of glory: “The Few. The Proud.”

Recently, this recruiter sat down at a table where I was the only female, eating with two male friends. He began his pitch facing one directly, and then extended it to include both of them. However, the recruiter’s body language clearly excluded me from their conversation. He never looked at me, even though I was directly facing him, and instead conducted this entire exchange turned side-

ways. When he stood to leave, he shook both male hands, continuing to ignore that I was there. Only when he was about four steps away, did he turn around, look at me, and say, “You know, we also have women in the Marines.”

Because of my gender, I was an afterthought.

Yes sir, I know there are women in the Marines; 14,000 of them, according to CNN. After recent policy changes, two women have been approved for combat positions. Despite this progress, women are still only 7% of the Marine Corps, and 15% of the Armed Forces. These same women face high rates of sexual assault. According to 2012 surveys by the Pentagon and U.S. Department of Justice, 6% of active-duty women experience sexual assault, a rate twenty-four times higher than similarly-aged civilian women. Pentagon reports and veteran testimony

agree that sexism still permeates military culture. With this reputation, it is no wonder that so few females enlist.

I actually used to want to join the Marine’s Combat Camera unit. I wear skirts, but that does not mean I would not crawl through mud or jump out of a plane to serve my country. To assume that my femininity automatically makes me unable or unwilling is an insult not just to myself, but to the thousands of women that have, and continue to break assumptions about gender in the military.

The patriarchal culture of the military dissuades many women from serving. This culture begins at the recruiting table. Military recruitment would benefit from seriously considering women at the start, even if it is as simple as extending a handshake.

Mainstream Music Life on Mars Gavin Halsey Reporter In this digital age it has become very hard to come across any song that is not made by a computer or electronic program. This is one of the results of having a huge technological revolution.

Almost anyone can be a musician if one has a laptop, garageband, and some time on their hands. This is a great way for people to do what they enjoy of course, but the question is if it has affected the amount of musicianship in the industry. The amount of music out there is incredible, ranging from jazz to rock and roll, hip-hop, alternative, and classical. Yet, with so much variety of music out there, there tends to be a trend of listening to music made with little to know musical influence besides a back beat and another person making noises in the background.

Although songs such as these can be very catchy and grab your attention, the actual musical talent has been washed away by the sea of artificial beats and sounds. Until around the

1980’s, music was mostly played by musicians who played physical instruments. Examples of these groups include Rush, Led Zeppelin, Kiss, and of course, The Beatles. Consisting of at least one drummer, bass guitarist, lead guitarist, and singer, these four (or more) components create classics that will be listened to by fans for many more years to come.

Part of this is due to the fact that many people appreciated the work and skill that was neede dto create such piece of art.

Today, many songs are kept in heavy rotation one week and will be forgotten about the next. This is due to a lack of variety and carbon copy song outline being used to death in different ways.

Music used to be made about love, overcoming personal demons, and even letting the listener come up with there own meaning for what the song means to them. Instead, the current generation is being exposed to violence, money, and doing whatever it takes to obtain it. Most of this influence comes through current rap artists and hip-hop influences alike.

This could be considered motivation for some, but it could also be a sign of the decline of talent in the current music scene.

Isaac Keehn Photo Editor

The human species has always lived on planet Earth, but imagine becoming an interplanetary species that travels the depths of space, just as we travel the roads on Earth now.

That is the vision that Elon Musk has, the South African born investor, engineer, and founder of SpaceX, the company he plans to use to fuel this mission. He believes that by the 2060’s, one million people could be living on Mars. Personally, I would like to stay on earth for the remainder of my life. As one would expect, life would be completely different on Mars.

Bringing humans to the moon was the first major space exploration success to be completed, however, since then funding for space exploration has been decreased substantially. This is due to fear of a repeat of the Apollo mission where nearly everything that could go wrong, did.

The astronauts had to use duct tape and rely on their training to get them home safely.

For Musk’s plan to begin, contracts from both private clients, as well as government funding would be necessary. The cost estimates he currently has are far too high for what they need to be, which is around $200,000, or the cost of the

average home in the US. The key to Musk’s plan, is that he says the rockets that will be used for the mission need to be reusable.

A rocket that can take multiple trips, with multiple astronauts, and be able to land safely back on Earth, like something that has never been done before. This idea would save millions of dollars and, “has the potential to slash the the cost of spaceflight by a factor of 100.” (Musk) These technologies are being developed right now at the SpaceX rocket-development facility in McGregor, Texas.

One crucial aspect that SpaceX is intending to use are solar panels that open up after the capsule has exited Earth’s atmosphere, and harvest energy from the sun to help conserve the valuable propellant. Upon arrival to the red planet, the astronauts would take samples of the surface layer of the planet and explore its topography.

Growth of a population on Mars would not begin before needed supplies are acquired and shelters are set up.

Although Musk does not believe he will be alive to witness the fruits of his labor, he did say, “I think that Mars is gonna be a great place to go,” he continues, “It will be the planet of opportunity.”

Marching Bands Athletic Demands Maria Saldana Reporter The word “sports” is automatically attributed to basketball, baseball, volleyball, football, soccer or hockey. However, certain people cannot fathom the fact that band should be considered a competitive sport as well.

According to Oxford Dictionary, a sport is “an activity involving physical exertion and skill in which an individual or team competes against another or others for entertainment.” Band does involve lots of physical exertion and practice in order to win their competitions.

Students who are enrolled in the band program must be able to meet the physical requirements and stay in shape throughout the season without exception. Those enrolled in the program also spend their summers at “band camp,”where the art of marching is practiced.

The members of the band program at NHS spends on average four days a week, three to four hours on weekdays and their whole Saturdays, practicing for

competitions. Throughout these practices, physical activity comes into play, and the students are required to perform tasks that an average athlete does. Students in band do this in order to increase their stamina for shows and competitions, just like an athlete practices in order to do the same.

One may disagree and say that a student enrolled in band may lack the skills of an average athlete. This, however, is false, because band kids must know how to march in the proper manner, have all of their music mastered and drilled into their heads, move at a certain pace, and most importantly, they have to play. All of these skills are consummated at the same time, so it is foolish to say that one does not require skill to be a part of the marching band.

Not only does being in band require skill, but it requires time and dedication, just like an athlete dedicates to their sport. A band member must be fully dedicated to band, just like a football player is dedicated to football.

Band should be respected, and it should be considered a sport because they perform the same tasks as athletes.

15

OPINION

December 2016

Now This is Why I Hate Politics Sara Roman A&E Editor/Web Designer Politics are toxic, and do nothing but fuel hate. Best friends reconsider friendships because of each other's choice of candidate and teachers have to hold back their views in fear of starting a class debate and possibly getting fired. Nothing good has come from this year's election.

To roughly sum up this election, in my perspective, it was a glory fight between two toddlers who each wanted the same cookie. One played dirty and went outside all the usual traditions, while the other tried to earn it through the classic means, but as the saying goes, the good guys do not always win.

This whole election has done nothing but turn people

against each other and start a country wide game of name calling. People once called friends are now getting into arguments, complete strangers hating each other for a single choice. The two main people in this election cause others to ooze rudeness and hate, and it is not at all surprising.

On one hand there is Donald Trump, the business tycoon that has robbed and bankrupt millions but somehow was trusted fulfil his promise to the American people that jobs he would create. Additionally, he got away with not fulfilling the measly tradition of showing his tax returns. you know, the thing that shows that one is a loyal citizen .

Not to mention, he was a suspected criminal in a sexual assault investigation in which the charges were dropped after he became president, a racist, a sexist and a confirmed egomaniac.

On the other hand, Hillary Clinton, a previous first lady

and secretary of state who has had her nose in the government for a little too long. She got way too comfortable in the political field that she became too relaxed and caused the email scandal, so in turn she could be considered a criminal as well. The last thing one should want to see is a president that is not stressed because in the American guide book that would mean one is not working hard enough.

This whole election is a joke gone wrong. There were two candidates that were fools who grabbed the limelight as much as they could and knocked out all other potential candidates that could have gave our nation more of a fighting chance.

Long story short, this country is screwed either way, and now the U.S. president is just another thing on the list for people to complain about.

Trump’s America Election Day Kira Cusick Reporter On this year's election day, hundreds of women flocked to Susan B. Anthony’s grave after handing in their ballots at their polling station. As an act of commemoration for the iconic suffragette, they took their “I voted” stickers, and placed them on her headstone.

Alongside these stickers appeared Hillary Clinton’s logo, Rosie the Riveter, and other famous feminist symbols. The powerful image of progress signifies the lengths to which women have advanced in The United States. However, a decline is on the way.

The amazing eight years of progress that had been made under the Obama administration will undoubtedly be wiped out as the ultra conservatives take over.

As Trump is incredibly unqualified and inexperienced in any form of Governmental work and diplomacy, his team will be effectively governing for him. This gives an incredible amount of power to a group of people that the American public did not elect.

On the other hand, we cannot leave people who were elected, like Vice President Michael Pence, out of the anti-Trump narrative, for he is just as much to blame for these acts of aggression. Pence wholeheartedly supports reversion therapy on homosexuals and aimed to strip away their rights by signing off on The Religious freedom Restoration Act which, essentially, allowed people to commit hate crimes against the LGBT community under the protection of “religious freedom” and the law. Trump and Pence also plan to reverse the effects of many other laws that protect the rights of minority groups such as the Voting Rights

Act, which has been in place since 1965, under the Lyndon Johnson administration.

The Voting Rights Act protects the right to vote held by African-American citizens and made it illegal to impose any restrictions that may inhibit them from voting.

We already saw the decline of this bills power in this election, with many polling centers being out of reach for dominant African-American and Latino communities,

One of the most important dates of the year, 2016, the U.S. Presidential Election Day with the U.S. Senate, November 8th. Donald J. Trump was the winner of the election through 290 votes in-terms with electoral college and 60,948,836

therefore discouraging their vote.

For people of color in America, and many other denominations of people, this election was a special one, and in the end, especially heart breaking. What started out as a powerful moment in Women’s history quickly turned to ash and despair as Donald Trump was put in power.

public votes. The election day symbolizes, when the American society stepping up for the change to occur, making a vast difference that impacts the next four to eight years of a country’s international status, the economical position with the financial status and produces redefined political views on the world and

Avinav Gupta Business Manager

it’s problems. With Donald Trump as the president elect, many people believe due to a businessman’s words on rigged system, a tsunami is coming to change the structure that is government.

For the state of Connecticut, the citizens choice; Hillary Clinton as its representative who won over Donald Trump by 225,442 votes. Being a democratic state for the last 24 years, its commitment towards democratic policies and views is still unstaggered even with the strategic approachment of Donald Trump a strong competitor who has turned many states to his side. Connecticut's strive towards liberal political standings with support from Hillary Clinton gave her a hand over her rival in acquiring connecticut with the 7 electoral votes.

For the position of the Senator at the house of Senate, incumbent Richard Blumenthal still holds reign over it.

The state of Connecticut elected Blumenthal with 986,291 votes, the city of Norwalk favoring the incumbent by 68.4%, 24,510 votes responding with the current policies and proving the changes made created a response.

The choices made by the United States of America in-part with the President Elect is going to be part of the long political history for at least four years. The future decisions of Donald J. Trump (2017-2021) would create a business based country and the choice of selecting the incumbent is unwavered through public representation, that will determine a better or a worse future.

The Voting Age In Need of Change Jamie Phillips Opinion Editor On July first, 1971, the twenty sixth amendment of the Constitution lowered the voting age in the United States from twenty one to eighteen due to the mounting pressure from student activists protesting both the voting age and the Vietnam War. The Vietnam War is widely remembered as a complete waste of time, resources, and most importantly, life.

At the time, the voting age was twenty one, even though men as young as eighteen were being conscripted to fight a war that became less popular every day. The frustration that many young people felt concerning the Vietnam War was the catalyst that popularized the fight for suffrage at eighteen. This massive student action resulted in real,

tangible political change in the form of the twenty sixth amendment. This result is proof that students cannot underestimate themselves or their influence in our political process.

Today, thirty nine states require that all high schoolers must take and pass a civics course in order to graduate.

This requirement is meant to ensure that all high school graduates have a solid understanding of our government and how it works. Only nine of these states have a standardized exam that test students knowledge of the mandatory courses. This is not an acceptable way to ensure that all high school graduates have an understanding of the political system in which they live.

Instead of these lax state laws which attempt in futile to enforce a curriculum of the civic process, I propose a federal policy that requires all high schools to take a standardized course, as well as issue a cost-free standardized

exam that tests a student's understanding of the material in order to receive federal school funding. By adopting this process it is assured that all high schoolers have learned the same material and, if they passed the exam, have an acceptable understanding of it.

By basing suffrage on this type of system rather than an arbitrary age defining adulthood, American citizens can rest assured that all voters are qualified to make informed decisions regarding their vote. This type of major change in the political system would, however, require mass student action. In order to effect change on such a large level, students must make their voices heard and fight for the right to vote; it is their country too.

16

OPINION

December 2016

Holiday Inequity Elise Sullivan News Editor

Photo Credit- Riley Robinson

Each year, starting in the middle of November, malls and stores explode with Christmas decorations, lights, trees, and more. Each display holds a sleigh, candy canes, santa hats, hanging ornaments and wreaths. Then, every so often, off in the far corner of the store is the miniscule Hanukkah section that almost everyone skips over. This corner contains candles, dreidels, chocolate coins, and the occasional white and blue Hanukkah sweater with a menorah on it.

Christmas decorations constantly over power Hanukkah ones, which is wrong. The amount of Hanukkah decorations should be increased to match the ones of Christmas, in order to represent their importance and worth.

Hanukkah is a Jewish holiday that celebrates and honors the miracle of the oil that burned for eight days, which provided the Jews with warmth and light during the Mac-

cabean revolt. Therefore, it is quite an important holiday in Jewish culture.

While Christmas is spent celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ, decorating trees, singing carols, and opening presents, Hanukkah is celebrated by the lighting of candles, spinning dreidels, and eating foods such as potato latkes.

Christmas decorations are magnificent in that they bring a sense of joy and happiness to the holiday season. However, they often cause Hanukkah decorations to be pushed to the side and overlooked. Not many people have ever walked through a store or public facility and exclaimed, “Wow, look at that incredible Hanukkah display.”

The amount of Christmas displays and decorations during the holiday season should not be decreased, but instead, should be accompanied by more Hanukkah ones. Hanukkah displays and decorations should be enlarged and made more common because they represent an important holiday that honors a miracle in Jewish culture and all of the people that celebrate it.

Forgotten New Years Resolutions Mackenzie Lowden co Editor in chief At the bittersweet end of each year, on New Year’s Eve, many people thrive to follow through with what they call a “New Year's resolution.”

According to nielsen.com, the most common New Year’s resolutions are staying healthy and in shape, losing weight, enjoying life to the fullest, saving money instead of spending it as soon as it is earned, spending more quality time with friends and family, getting more organized, learn something new and/or finding a new “hobby,” travel more, read more, etc. I could not have listed it any better myself. Some may not even make any resolutions at all and in my opinion, I do not blame them nor would I judge. “Just 8% of people achieve their New Year’s Resolutions,” (forbes.com).

What most people strive for is to better themselves as a whole. However, clearly, in this generation and the way people are/act these days in general, not many follow through. However, not following through does not apply to only people wanting to “make themselves a better person.”

This has the potential to apply to anything.

According to forbes.com, “Setting ambi-

tious resolutions can be fun and inspiring, but the difficulty in achieving them means that your elation can quickly give way to frustration.”

Personally, when people ask me what my “New Year's resolution” for 2017 is going to be, I will probably reply by saying to lose weight, save my money, improve my attitude, to “better myself” and all of that fun stuff that practically everyone strives for. However, I say this almost every year, yet here I am now, a broke girl with an attitude. And I, myself, will admit how pathetic that is and that there needs to be a severe change not only for me, but for everyone else as well.

Making a resolution has its pros and cons like any other decisions made. Many of these intentions that we gather for the upcoming years are not prolonged. However, when/if they are carried on, “these can also increase a person's well-being because they force us to consider what we value most and they help to structure our time,” (marquette.edu).

With a new year approaching, it is about time to reveal your final mindset of which your so called “New Year’s resolution” will be, and actually follow through with whatever it is that you do so desire.

Top New Years Resolutions 10.) Travel 9.) Make new friends 8.) Get organized 7.) Improve grades 6.) Volunteer 5.) Lose weight 4.) Quit smoking 3.) Enjoy life to the fullest 2.) Save money 1.) Stay fit and get in shape

Simple Steps to Perfect Sarcasm Hannah Keyes co editor in cheif Sarcasm can baffle or even offend people. Regardless, it is a true form of comedic communication that many people have become accustomed to.

There are many different ways in which to approach sarcasm in order to feel its full effect, but it is all dependent upon the strategy. The most common way is to allow someone to show a negative emotion while softening the blow with humor. Basically, a person can be as angry and as harsh as they want, but by expressing these emotions and words sarcastically, it becomes socially acceptable. If a person asks, “Hey, are you washing your dog?” even if it is quite obvious that one is indeed washing their dog, simply reply with, “No, I’m watering my dog to see if it

will grow.” If this person has a decent sense of humor, then they will just laugh, or possibly admire the wittiness.

However, if they are on the dense side, they may get offended.

It is okay though, sometimes dumb and obvious questions need to be answered in a dumb and obvious fashion.

This is in order to get the point across that the person asked a stupid question in the first place. It may be the only way to cease the continuation of more unwanted questions; nobody needs that kind of cringe in their life.

Sarcasm is extremely common amongst teenagers. It is basically their second language as it helps them cope with their angst. Most parents and teachers have first hand experience with teenage sarcasm and can probably attest to this claim. Disclaimer: a teenager who does not use sarcasm at least somewhat often is not a teenager at all, one should acknowledge the strangeness and avoid these people at all costs.

There are those times when people can become con-

fused as to whether or not a person is being sarcastic or serious. Sometimes, a naturally sarcastic individual may leave people unsure as to whether or not they are even joking anymore. Once one reaches this level, understand that there is no going back.

Also, there is the concept of a person saying the exact opposite of what they mean. In doing this they expect the receiving individual to understand and reciprocate. However, this can be a tough situation if the other person is non-receptive of the sarcasm being used. This brings up a whole new and aggravating problem for sarcastic people.

It then feels as if one is talking to a baby. Words must be carefully crafted in order not to confuse and/or offend those involved.

Having wit or being sarcastic takes a certain level of intelligence to accomplish. So even if one does not care for sarcasm, they should at least acknowledge the actual skill involved.

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Girls Co-Op On The Ice Mackenzie Lowden Reporter

is the interest level may not be very high at one school, therefore, there are arranged co-op teams. NHS currently has co-op arrangements with BMHS for boys and girls swimming as well as boys ice hockey. However, girls ice

Trying to build the sport of girls ice hockey, the co-op Varsity and JV teams (consisting of Wilton High School, Brien McMahon High School, and Norwalk High School) are currently looking for the interest of new players.

The team has been in existence for a few years now, however, not many people have known about it and there has not been much attention brought to them until now.

NHS’s athletic director, Mr. Marchetti, stated, “Right now, girls ice hockey, is not even recognized by the CIAC as a, quote on quote, “official sport,” simply because there are not enough schools to play,” he went on, “For the CIAC to recognize the sport, you need to have a certain percentage of schools in Connecticut to have a team.”

Although the team is not considered an “official sport,” they do play a full schedule of games including their participation in the states and FCIAC tournaments as well.

To register for schedules and team websites, go to wiltongirlshockey.org.

When there is a newer program, the main problem

hockey is a mashup with three schools, particularly run by Wilton with a second year coach, Pete Maxfield.

The girls’ home rink is the Sono Ice House. Practice will be at least three times a week, consisting of two early morning practices at 5:45 AM and one Sunday time to be determined. For home games, the girls will meet at the ice house whereas for away games, the bus will leave from and return to Wilton High School.

As of right now, Shannon Mceveney is the only player on the team representing NHS. With the signs hanging up around school and the announcements being made, Mr. Marchetti has had about four girls approach him showing interest in joining the team, asking for general information.

Mr. Marchetti said, “When you have co-op teams, there are tryouts but one of the rules with co-ops is that you’re not allowed to cut anybody so it would be a situation where if girls wanted to go out for the team, they could not be cut, but obviously in a sport like hockey, you might come to the realization that it’s going to be very difficult to play ice hockey if you don’t have some of the basic skills.”

Student Athlete Spotlights Matthew Gola Sports Editor As Norwalk High School seniors enter the final months of 2016, one priority rises above the others: College.

For many students, these months are filled with frantic FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) filings, standardized test taking, and application arranging. However, for some seniors, the college process is even more complex. For high school athletes who hope to take their talents to the collegiate level, the journey is far more arduous and convoluted.

Two athletes in particular, Eddie McCabe and Isaac Keehn committed to two very different schools this past month. McCabe committed to Georgetown, a Division I university in Washington DC; and Keehn committed to Keene State, a Division III college in New Hampshire. Of their process, they had this to say.

“The process was pretty stressful, to be honest. Playing almost everyday knowing that there are college scouts watching you and deciding whether to take you can be nerve wracking. However, at the same time, it was really fun to have that pressure and to have your future in your own hands. When I finally did commit it was just a huge relief and I was really happy with my choice of Georgetown,” stated Eddie McCabe (‘17).

“The college recruitment process was something I had no experience with going into last summer, so when I was told I needed to contact coaches on my own and be my own promoter I was pretty overwhelmed. However, when I got the hang of the process and began to receive responses and interest, it felt good and I felt more confident about recruitment. Knowing college coaches were at my games didn’t really make me feel like I had to play any different, I just played like I knew I could and that was all it took. When I finally committed it was a huge relief and I was extremely happy and proud,” stated Isaac Keehn (‘17)

From both McCabe’s and Keehn’s stories, it’s easy to see the traits of athlete’s capable of competing at a collegiate level: Perseverance, focus, dedication, and pride. Among the other committed athletes - James Maksin (Temple Commit) and Peter Kotulsky (Oswego Commit), Evan Faber (Morrisville Commit), and Jacqueline Harris (Albertus Magnus Commit) - these traits are also apparent.

If you commit to a school after this article has been published, or a change is made to your commitment status, please let The Paw Print know.

Norwalk High Takes the DUB Avinav Gupta Business Manager “When you play and trust the people next to you anything can happen, this is what happened today”, said coach Ireland. The traditional Thanksgiving game between Norwalk High School and Brien McMahon took place at Testa field on November 24th. Being the last high school game for the seniors, everybody gave their all to the game and obtained a landslide of a victory. “Proud of the Seniors of handling the work and this is victory is the result of that hard work paying off”, said coach Albrecht.

The first quarter of the game went according to NHS’s tempo, aiding in scoring touchdowns. The Bears aggressive point play became the right call which helped in securing a lead to create the momentum for the rest of the game, score 8:0. With the start of the second quarter, norwalk did not waste much time and went on the offensive with A.J. Hall(‘18). The whole team play was seen when the players supported each other and got their teammates backs till the score line, obtaining a touchdown, score 37:6. The third quarter saw an unfortunate accident occur, No. 54, Nick Marsane(‘17) of Brien McMahon was injured after an interception. The fourth quarter went on with the stakes higher than ever and NHS scored again with 9 minutes remaining, finalizing the score to 44:6.

The tradition of the game dates back more than 2 decades to 24th November, 1994.

The Thanksgiving Game or the Turkey Bowl is more than a tradition, it is an alive event that drags the audiences from their houses to the field at 9 in the morning, even with the weather giving the effects of a frostbite. The winner of the turkey bowl receives the Sam Testa Trophy, in-addition to bragging rights. November 24th is the date that carries

moments left behind by graduated players on the playing field for the upcoming bears to lead on. “I have been coming to these games for more than a decade, the first time I saw my uncle playing for bears was at the thanksgiving game when he caught the ball and ran towards a touchdown.” said Joe Anonymous.

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December 2016

Boys and Girls Running Bears Emma Daignault Reporter Indoor track has just begun and the Running Bears are taking off.

Amanda Doyle (’17) one of the girls captains says, “The new indoor track season has begun and I’m excited for the upcoming track meets.

There are many new runners on the team and I look forward to going the distance with them (Pun intended).” She continues, “My hopes for the team is that we will all keep improving our personal records and qualify for the FCIAC Championships. I also hope that everyone finishes the season with no injuries.”

Vasili Seitaridis (’17) one of the boys captains says, “I hope to have another great season where we can all keep improving our times and get as much as we can to FCIAC and state championships.”

Good Luck to the running bears in their upcoming season.

COME OUT TO SUPPORT ALL THE NHS TEAMS OVER THE HOLIDAY BREAK & THE NEW YEAR!

Girls Basketball Jamie Phillips Opinion Editor

Boys Basketball Eddie McCabe Reporter It has become that wonderful time of year again when winter sports are a headliner here at Norwalk High School. The boys basketball team are eager and ready to start the season.

Last year the team finished with a 4-17 record, but the record did not do justice for the talent that was on the team. This year, with a combination of a few returning players and some new faces, Coach Keyes is confident in his team’s ability to have a good season. “This season we have a good group of dedicated guys that work hard and give one hundred percent all the time. With that recipe I think we could be pretty good.”

Looking to improve on last year, The Bears are working hard to reach their goals.

“We aren’t really sure what we are shooting for in terms of wins and losses, but right now it is real early so we are just trying to get better every day.”

Junior guard AJ Hall (‘18) in particular, is very confident in the team’s ability and also in the work they have done to prepare for this season. “We’ve done a lot in the offseason. We had a bunch of workouts and open gym and everyone really worked hard. Now that the season is here, we are ready to roll.” AJ also believes that if the team truly wants to be successful, they are going to have to have a team first attitude.

“We are going to have to work as a team every single game. I have confidence that if we work together we can run any team we face right out of the gym, because I feel like we are the most conditioned team in the F.C.I.A.C. The boys are also going to have to rely on some guys that have been there before to lead them towards their goals. Tommy Benincaso (17’) is ready for that challenge. “ As a captain, I feel like I have a bigger responsibility to be an example and set the tone for the team. I have to lead by example and help instruct the team. These guys have worked hard for a long time to prepare for the start of the season and I can’t wait for it to start.”

The winter season has begun, and with it, the girl’s basketball team is excited to reach new heights.

Of the many goals that the team has set, winning FCIACS is the first accomplishment needed to continue on to states. Asiah Knight (17), one of the team captains, told the Paw Print, “As a team our expectations are to obviously do better than we did last year. This year we set very high expectations for ourselves. Our goals are to win FCIACS and to get as far as we can in states.”

Katie Sciglimpaglia (18), a team member, agreed with Knight, saying, “We expect to make FCIACS and states this year because we have a lot of hard workers and talent.”

When asked about her personal goals for the season, Knight said, “Last year I was able to make ALL FCIAC First Team. This year I’m reaching for ALL-FCIAC MVP and The All State Team. Also, I’m 285 points away from getting 1,000 points, so hopefully I can end my senior year with that.”.

Winning FCIACS is not the only focus of this season however, and Sarah Arena, the team manager, talked about the team as a whole. Arena elaborated on how the team is different from years past, saying, “I am looking forward to seeing how the team grows as a family. We have a lot of new freshmen that came in and have a lot to offer! Most of the team has been playing together for the past couple of years in school and in other programs, so our team chemistry is strong.” Knight also told the Paw Print about her expectations to win states, saying, “Also, I’m more excited to see us win states, which is gonna happen this year for sure.”

Thanks to a fresh team and new captains, the prospects for the girl’s basketball team this year are hopeful. The team is working hard to achieve their goals of winning FCIACS, and later, winning states. “Our goals are to win FCIACS and to get as far as we can in states.”

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December 2016

Boys Swimming Boys Wrestling Sara Roman A&E Editor With the incoming of twelve new team members from all grades but mainly freshman, the boys swim team aspires farther.

Mr. Passamano, the boys swim team coach for the past three years goes on to say his view on whether swimming is more of a team or individual sport, “On the first day, and I will say it billion more times, swimming is the ultimate team sport because you have to take everyone along with you.” He continues to say, “Swimming is tough because two hours of starting at a black line on the bottom of a pool can be mentally and physically exhausting and a lot of time guys have to depend on their teammates to get them through really hard practices.”

The first swim meet is December 17th, the Norwalk Relay Race, a large fundraising event that happens every year, where seven other teams are invited. There are twelve swim meets this year along with FCIACS, States and Opens.

The hopes for this year are to beat Wilton. As well as finishing with a better record than done the year before,

by scoring more points FCIACS and scoring more points at States and finishing better than they did before.

Member John Kruy (’18) says that his favorite thing about the team is, “The way we work together and how we have each others back.” He continues, “I wouldn’t be who I am today without these guys. It’s a great team to be a part of. Even though half the team is from a rival school, we still work together like we are from the same school.”

Mr. Passamano further elaborated on the family aspect of the boys swim team and states, “It is very much a family and very much a team thing, so while yeah it is an individual sport, can you get from point a to point b and back again faster than the guys around you, at the end of the day to get through the entire season is very much a team sport.”

There are high hopes for this year with the combinations of more mem-

Stop by and check out the new pool at NHS

Matt Gola Reporter Coming off last year’s solid 8 and 11 record, the Norwalk Co-ed Wrestling team is hopeful for the 2016-2017 winter season.

The more underrated and easily looked over teams at Norwalk High - the wrestling team - is coming off of an impressive 2015 season. Besides their 8 and 11 record, the wrestling team sent 5 different wrestlers in 5 different weight classes to the Class LL Tournament. Sam White (‘19, 106 lbs.), Jon Albrecht (‘17, 113 lbs.), Franklin Ceron (Alumni, 182 lbs.), John Kolestos (Alumni, 170 lbs.), and Michael Boyian (‘19, 99 lbs.) each qualified for the FCIAC Championships last year, with Sam White placing 2nd in his weight class.

However, the results of their previous season is not the only reason why the wrestling team is one of the most interesting sports teams at Norwalk High. For the first time in two years, a girl has joined the team. Melissa Hawkes (‘18) decided that after her several years of practicing Brazilian Jiu Jitsu outside of school, she wanted to translate her skills on to the mat. Melissa added, “So far, the team has made me feel very accepted. I feel that by the end of the season, I will be a beast.”

With a team just as strong as last year’s, the 2016-2017 season captains - seniors Mus-

tafa Kapadwala and Jon Albrecht - are confident in their team’s ability to continue to create results on the mat. “We lost some good seniors last year, like John Kolestos, but are team is still just as strong and we hope that we can place just as high - if not higher - as a team in the FCIACs,” stated Kapadwala (‘17).

NHS/McMahon Girls Swimming Melissa Hawkes Reporter One of the most prolific, important and successful teams in the school, the co-op McMahon and Norwalk High School girls swim team, was the only sports team to make it to FCIACS and not into the first addition pawprint.

With a record as good as theirs-four wins and six losses-, it is no wonder that girls swim team is one of the biggest teams in the entire school, with approximately thirty two girls from either school. Although the overall record is not the best in the team’s history, the relay team, including NHS Junior Katie Czulewicz, did break a Norwalk/ McMahon record at the State tournament meet. The relay team did not get the only coveted spots at States however, with four others from Norwalk High qualifying as well; Sandy Remson (’19), Torie Morin(’18), Mia Mendribil (’19), and Lauren Daignault (’20). In total, 16 people from

both schools went to States, more than have gone in the last twenty years, and five of the NHS girls went on to State Finals.

One of those qualifying finalists was eager to share her reflection of the season, “I think the season went really well this year. We finished fourth at LLs (their division at States), fourteenth at State opens, and seventh at FCIACS.” stated Sandy Remson (’19).

As of right now, both Senior captains of this astonishing team, Olivia Fassett and Emily Reinoso attend Brien McMahon, but next year, the roles will change. Not only will their be two captains who attend BMHS, but two who attend NHS as well. Next years senior captains are Torie Morin and Katie Czulewicz, and Hayley Linder and Ally Cruz. The joint effort from all the captains will be a much needed change to the dynamic, giving equal power to both schools that make up the team. Future Captain Torie Morin (’18) added, “Our season went very well. We are very optimistic going into the next season.”

Next years season begins around the same time as it did this year, early September, but practice begins before then. Any girls interested in swimming for the Norwalk High girls swim team in the 2017-2018 year, can talk to the future captains for more information about the highly anticipated season.

NHS/McMahon Boys Ice Hockey Eddie McCabe Reporter This winter, Norwalk High School’s joint hockey team with Brien McMahon is looking forward to a great season.

Last season, the boys ended with a five and seven record and are hoping to improve this season.

This year the team has a new coach. Dale Wehmoff is taking the reigns this year, and many players are excited for the change. Hans Maier (‘17) stated, “He pushes everyone to work their hardest, and he does a good job motivating all of us to want to have a good season.” A new man at the helm could be just what the team needs to push them over the edge and get them to have a long run in states. Sometimes, that is all a team needs to motivate them to push harder and give everything and more. With a new coach and high hopes and expectations, the boys are anxious to see what the season brings.

Danny Frattaroli (‘17) is especially excited because of how well the team is prepared for the new year. “I think we will be very successful. We have been grinding really hard even during the summer and most of us are in great shape.” Danny believes that this hard work will pay off in the long run and help the team improve on their season

from last year. “We are definitely more prepared this year, and I think our hard work shows that.”

This is not just Norwalk High’s team though. The Hockey team is shared with Brien McMahon. Quinn Sandor (‘17) commented on the team’s compatibility and being able to play with players from across town. “It can make for an interesting feel to the time at times. These kids are supposed to be our rivals but they become good friends instead.

It's actually pretty fun to be able to play with them.” Ever since its origin, Norwalk and McMahon has had a combined hockey team. “I played with a lot of the guys when I was younger too so we are already friends going into the season.”This year the team is hoping to finally go all the way and win a state championship for Norwalk.

Norwalk High and the whole city of Norwalk wishes the best of luck and is excited to see what can be accomplished with the new year.

T H E N H S T A L E N T S H O W

Photos by Sharon Cadden and Riley Robinson