The Cordette - February Issue

Cordette

The

www.sacredheartacademyli.org

Vol. 73, No. 2

47 Cathedral Avenue, Hempstead NY 11550

February 2024

The Timeless Magic of an Honored Tradition: SHA Nutcracker 2023

By Cecilia Renz SHA ’27

The Nutcracker remains a timeless SHA tradition, essential to SHA’s celebration of Christmas. This year, showcased on November 17th through the 19th, the four-show production was a resounding success. From the techies to the dancers, the entire production staff worked tirelessly to produce a magical event that could not have gone better.

Evalina Lentini (SHA ’24) has performed in the SHA Nutcracker since her freshman year and said that this year was her favorite because, in her words, “as President, I was able to organize many aspects of the production along with dancing and choreographing all of my friends in our senior year.”

Charlotte Formont (SHA ’25), has performed in the SHA Nutcracker for three years and recalled that her sophomore year performance was her favorite due to “getting to experience Nutcracker without Covid restrictions and having fun with the friends that I made from freshman year.”

This was Samantha Koenig’s (SHA ’26) second year performing Nutcracker. She remarked that this was her favorite year since, as she shared,

“I got roles that I worked really hard for and formed more friendships.”

Notably, many first years were included in this year’s production team and each has her own special memory of the experience. Gianna Ambizas (SHA ’27) stated that she joined SHA Nutcracker because she was inspired by her sister, Athena Amibizas (SHA

’24), who had performed in the production all four of her years at SHA; especially memorable was her rendition of the Dew Drop Fairy. Allie Parmiter (SHA ’27) was attracted to the Nutcracker by her “passion for dance” while Gia Bencivenni (SHA ’27) joined to expand potential friendships. Turning to the question of favorite

Photo credit: Sacred Heart

Nutcracker traditions, Allison Kraus (SHA ’25) replied that her favorite tradition was theme week while Lucy Kearns’s (SHA ’27) was senior gifts and Brooke McGovern’s (SHA ’26) was dinner week.

This year, SHA Nutcracker proved to be an action-packed season for the entire production team, the result of much hard work and many lessons learned. Samantha Koenig (SHA ’26) commented that she acquired skills in motivation and teamwork in her role producing our show. Evalina Lentini (who played the Sugar Plum Fairy and was President of the Executive Board) summed it up best when she told me, “SHA Nutcracker provides the best opportunity to grow as a leader. Having the opportunity to choreograph pieces in the production since my sophomore year, I have learned to be a leader of a group, to teach dancers and nondancers. As president in my senior year, I learned to organize dinners for all involved and mastered several other elements of the production that have given me the tools to be successful in my future career and my college journey progress.” We are so grateful to the Sacred Heart dancers and production staff for gracing us all with this outstanding performance.

The Wonders of Sacred Heart Academy’s Spectacular Winter Concert

By Mia Sclafani ’24

On Friday December 15th, Sacred Heart Academy held a spectacular 2023 Winter Concert. From September to the Christmas season, Sacred Heart’s music students and faculty work tirelessly with their ensembles to make a magical performance.

To start off the evening, SHAcappella performed a rendition of “Silent Night.” This was followed by the Chamber Chorus with their take on “Home on Christmas” led by Mrs. Donna Ferrara.

Next was the Chamber Ensemble led

by Ms. Terry Sheriffs. They performed “Rest Ye Merry, Rock Ye Very” and “Auld Lang Syne,” two popular holiday tunes. They finished with “Do You Hear What I Hear,” featuring senior soloists Kennedy Solis, Samantha Adycki, Gianna Cedrone, Adenike Adeyemo, and myself, Mia Sclafani.

After Chamber Ensemble, Chorus I performed “The Little Drummer Boy” and “Let It Go” from Disney’s Frozen,

two recognizable songs that the audience thoroughly enjoyed. Samantha Devaney did an amazing job as a soloist in “Let It Go.” Shortly after, the Orchestra, conducted by Mr. Jeff Toto, took to the stage performing the well-known melody “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas.” They then segued into Gustav Holst’s “Jupiter from The Planets Suite” and finished with “Inverno (Scenes from Vivaldi’s Winter)” a thrilling piece both to hear, and to play.

With Junior Ella Chatterton serving as concert mistress, Chorus II sang “Snowy Day” and the holiday classic “Deck the Halls,” which resounded beautifully in the SHA theater.

Jane Reardon shined as a soloist in Chorus II. Combined chorus groups sang exhilarating versions of “We Wish You a Merry Christmas” and “White Winter Hymnal” by Fleet Foxes, which was my personal favorite. I think it should also be mentioned that the chorus proudly performed these two songs

Photo credit: Sacred Heart

Photo credit: Sacred Heart

as the opening act for The Rockettes at Radio City Music Hall.

Last but not least, the Concert Band, conducted by Ms. Shirreffs, delighted us with “Christmas Fancies,” arranged by James Curnow, “In the Bleak Midwinter,”

by Gustav Holst, and “Christmas Eve/ Sarajevo 12/24” as once performed by Trans-Siberian Orchestra.

It is always a joy to be a part of the concerts at Sacred Heart. I love working with the final performance in mind during the first half of the year, and all the time and effort truly pay off to hear it all come together. As a member of the Orchestra and Chamber Ensemble, I can confirm that we are always making changes and refining our repertoire, from the moment we first get our sheet music and marking it to moments de-

ciding on the perfect tempo the night of the concert. What I love the most about the time we spend in preparation for the concert is how much we learn to trust each other and listen to each other, musically and personally, for, at the end of the day, music and communication work hand in hand. I am proud to say that in the ensembles I have been a part of, we established a strong sense of community where we were working not only towards our major goals for the concert, but we were learning from each other and mastering our skills of collaboration. That is something I value greatly. As a SHA senior, I could not have asked for a better last Christmas concert at SHA. I look forward to working on new music and enjoying my last special moments at Sacred Heart.

Page 2

Cordette

February 2024

Editorial/News

The Humanitarian Crisis in Gaza Congratulations, Katherine Lynch ‘24

By Kayla Palumbo ’24

Amid the excitement of the holiday season, we must not forget the victims of the ongoing violence in Gaza. On October 7th, 2023, an unprecedented attack by Hamas left 1,200 people killed and 240 hostages taken from Israel. Since this devastating day, tensions between Israel and Palestine have remained at an all-time high, causing Gaza to enter the new year in the midst of a humanitarian crisis.

Focusing on the repercussions of the war on residents of Gaza, over 55,000 people have been left injured, with only 13 out of 36 Gazan hospitals are currently functioning, according to the World Health Organization (WHO).

In addition, the United Nations reported that 100% of Gaza’s 2.2-million-person population is facing critical levels of food insecurity, and 85% of the population has been internally displaced and notified to seek shelter in Rafah, a crowded area by the southern border.

Unfortunately, due to supply shortages these “safe zones” still lack many basic necessities, such as clean water, proper sanitation, and adequate shelter.

As a result of the overcrowding in these areas and the severe lack of food, infectious diseases have been rampantly spreading and intestinal diseases are plaguing the malnourished.

The citizens of Gaza are relying on humanitarian aid, but the blockade of the Gazan border has made these deliveries nearly impossible to accomplish, depriving the area of food, water,

fuel, and medical supplies. Worsening these conditions, the civilians of Gaza have also been surviving under an electricity blackout for over two months, further limiting access to the outside world.

In response to this ongoing crisis, non-profit organizations are working tirelessly to alleviate this situation.

The UN Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) is providing food, education, healthcare, and shelter to 1.4 million displaced civilians, and the UN Children’s Fund (UNICEF) is offering continuous support to those children being raised in this time of need. In shelters, food is being distributed by the World Food Programme (WFP) and medical attention has been provided by the World Health Organization (WHO), but the continued violence, destruction of infrastructure, and lack of fuel have presented great obstacles to these programs. Despite these strong efforts, Gaza still remains in a critical state, and 146 UN staff members have sadly been killed in the process of delivering humanitarian aid.

Upon my research regarding this crisis, I realize that we take many “simple” privileges for granted, such as a safe place to call home, a warm meal each night, and access to modern medical care. As we enter the new year, I urge everyone to take a moment to thank God for these privileges, and please continue to pray for all those affected by this crisis, for those still held hostage, and for all the innocents caught in the crossfires of war.

The Cordette Editorial Staff

Editors-In-Chief:

Jacqueline Bodycomb ‘24 Kayla Palumbo ‘24

Assistant Editors:

Ava Guglielmo ‘24 Noelle McElhinney ‘25

News Editors:

Ava Guglielmo ‘24

Features Editors:

Lailah Jones ‘25 Noelle McElhinney ‘25

Arts & Leisure Editors:

Zoë Brita ‘24 Emma Reiter ‘24

Sports Editors:

Mary Kate Macchiarola ‘25

Moderators:

Dr. Mary Ellen Minogue Mrs. Monique Hernandez

Views expressed in The Cordette are those of the writers and do not necessarily represent the views of the administration, faculty, or students.

By Kayla Palumbo ’24

explains how implicit beliefs and biases may negatively shape our perspectives To start off a new year of success or warp our judgment, thus restricting for Sacred Heart Academy, Katherine the potential of the academic commuLynch ‘24 became the second SHA stu- nity. Drawing inspiration from Nordell’s dent to be named a Top 300 Scholar in conclusions, Katherine aimed to identify the National Regeneron Science Talent a relationship between implicit beliefs Search. On January 10th, Katherine and academic approaches. received the exciting news along with “I am beyond honored and grateful a $2,000 award for both herself and to be named a 2024 Regeneron STS the SHA science research program. semifinalist. But it is not an altogether As both a classmate and a friend, I can solo honor. This project, more than two honestly say that this achievement was years in the making, could not have extremely deserved. been completed without the support of Katherine’s project, titled “Mindset my classmates and teachers, espeover Matter: Can Self-Reported Implicit cially Dr. Sullivan. The girls in Research Theories of Intelligence Regulate the inspire me to be a better student and a Desire for Academic Rigor, Academic better person. Our bonds are a supAchievement, and port and a lifeline. Dr. Sullivan Motivation?,” focused on has always encouraged me the academic perforand advocated for my work. I mance of students in would not be the student I am a single-sex learning today without his unconditionenvironment. It was al support. The implications completed as part of the of my research have made a AP Research curriculum profound impact on my own offered here at SHA, mindset (quite literally) as a but most impressively, it student and a researcher. earned her the opporI hope that this project can tunity to present at the advance the conversation rePhoto credit: Sacred Heart Association for Psychogarding support and equity logical Science Convention in Washthroughout the American education ington, D.C. as well as a historic spot at system. If we can provide every stuthe New York State Science Congress dent, regardless of identity or backlast spring, making Katherine the first ground, the opportunity to excel by private school student on Long Island focusing on the cultivation of positive to do so in 25 years. intrinsic values and approaches, we So how does Katherine do it? The will certainly set forth on an ever better answer is simple: hard work and paspath.” sion. In addition to gaining an in-depth - Katherine Lynch, SHA Class of 2024 knowledge of statistics (and teaching On behalf of the Sacred Heart Acadit to many classmates…thank you!) emy community, congratulations, KathKatherine aimed to fully understand the erine! You serve as a great inspiration topic she was researching. In fact, she for fellow students, especially those in was most inspired by a book she read the science research program, and we the summer before her junior year, The wish you the best in your future studies.

End of Bias by Jessica Nordell, which

It’s Coming!! Red and Gold 2024

By Mary Kate Macchiarola ’25

It is officially that time of the year…

Red and Gold. All captains on the Red team and the Gold team have been preparing their routines, music, and costumes since the beginning of the summer. Both teams are working toward the same end goal, victory.

Although the competitive nature of this event can be overwhelming, it definitely brings together friendships and helps foster memories that will last a lifetime.

Red and Gold is a school-wide competition with five individual teams comprising each side: Spirit, Cheer, Kickline, Aerobics, and Dance. In addition, there is also an entrance routine that is choreographed by the head captains that anyone who participates in one of the five teams can be a part of. The teams practice every day after school from 3:00pm to 4:30pm, learning and perfecting their routines so that they can be the best they can possibly be.

One unique aspect of this event is the secrecy around so much of it. For example, each team has its own theme that the other team does not know.

Each participant must keep her dances and music a secret and not tell anyone on the opposing team her team’s theme.

After having the opportunity to talk with two of the head captains, Tess Pfeffer (Gold) and Mae Mullen (Red), I realized that Red and Gold is much more than just an after-school activity.

It means so much to the captains and also to all of the participants. Tess had even stated, “My favorite part of Red and Gold is having the opportunity to meet new people and make a lot of friends that are in different grades.

The girls on my team are almost like another family. It is really special”.

Similarly, Mae said, “For me, seeing the routine come together is very rewarding but also is watching all of the girls create inseparable bonds.”

Both of the captains also mentioned that Red and Gold stands out amongst other activities because it is completely student-run. The captains create all of the music remixes, design and create the costumes, choreograph the dances, and come up with the theme.

Be ready, March 8 2024 at 7:00pm in the Hofstra Gym. It will undoubtedly be an amazing show that will blow you away. All of the girls are very excited to perform and prove to the judges why they should win. Don’t forget to wear your red and gold and be ready to see all of the girls put on a breath-taking show.

News/Spiritual Life

Cordette February 2024 Page 3

Recovering From The Devastation of The Maui Wildfires

By Jacqueline Bodycomb ’24

The lush landscapes of Maui, often celebrated for their natural beauty, have recently faced a formidable adversary in the form of destructive wildfires. In a series of unprecedented events, raging flames swept across the island, leaving a trail of devastation in their wake. As the smoke begins to clear, Maui’s resilient community is uniting to overcome the challenges posed by the wildfires and embark on a journey of recovery. The wildfires, fueled by dry conditions and strong winds, ignited a wave of concern among residents and officials alike. The flames rapidly spread, consuming acres of land, endangering wildlife, and threatening homes. Local authorities swiftly implemented evacuation measures to ensure the safety of residents, and firefighters from across the state were mobilized to contain the blaze.

Now, as the immediate threat subsides, the focus shifts to recovery.

The aftermath of the wildfires reveals the extent of the damage, with charred landscapes and scorched structures bearing witness to the intensity of the flames; however, amidst the destruction, a collective spirit of resilience has emerged as the people of Maui come together to rebuild their community.

One of the first steps in the recovery process is assessing the impact on affected residents and providing support to those who have lost their homes or belongings. Local organizations and government agencies are working hand-in-hand to establish emergency

shelters, distribute essential supplies, and offer counseling services to those in need. The outpouring of solidarity from neighboring communities and volunteers has been instrumental in providing comfort and assistance during these trying times. As residents return to their neighborhoods, they are met with the daunting task of rebuilding their lives. Many are grappling with the emotional toll of witnessing their homes reduced to ashes. Community leaders and mental health professionals are actively working to ensure that counseling services are readily available to help individuals cope with trauma and grief.

Simultaneously, efforts to restore the environment are underway.

Conservation organizations and community volunteers are planting native vegetation to promote ecological recovery and prevent soil erosion in the fire-affected areas. These restoration projects not only contribute to the island’s biodiversity but also offer residents a tangible way to participate in the healing process.

The business community, which has also faced significant setbacks, is also demonstrating its resilience. Many local businesses were directly impacted by the wildfires, either through physical damage or disruptions in operations. In response, the Maui Chamber of Commerce, in collaboration with government agencies, is rolling out financial assistance programs and low-interest loans to help businesses get back on their feet. The goal is not only to revive the local economy but also to preserve the unique character of Maui’s com-

mercial landscape.

The tourism industry, a cornerstone of Maui’s economy, is working to reassure visitors that the island remains a welcoming destination. While some popular tourist spots may have been affected, a concerted effort is being made to highlight the untouched beauty of many areas and the ongoing recovery initiatives. Tourism plays a vital role in Maui’s economic recovery, and the community is eager to share its resilience and determination with the world.

Maui’s residents are also looking to the future with a renewed emphasis on fire prevention and community preparedness. As climate change continues to pose challenges, local officials are investing in advanced wildfire detection and prevention technologies. Community workshops on fire safety and evacuation plans are being organized to ensure that residents are well-informed and ready to respond in case of future emergencies.

The Maui wildfires serve as a stark reminder of the vulnerability of communities to natural disasters and the urgent need for proactive measures.

Through the darkness of the recent events, the island’s spirit remains unbroken. The recovery process is not a solo journey but a collective effort, demonstrating the strength and unity of Maui’s residents in the face of adversity. As the community rebuilds and heals, the island is poised to emerge even stronger, with a deeper sense of interconnectedness and a commitment to a sustainable and resilient future.

Environmental Action Club: Making A Difference

By Eleni Lignos ’25

Imagine a world where there is more plastic than fish in our oceans.

Well, according to scientists, this could be our Earth’s fate within the next 30 years. Researchers believe that by 2050, factories will produce more than three times as much plastic materials as they did in 2014. The pollution by plastic takes a remarkable toll on wildlife, causing more than 700 species to ingest plastic or become entangled by it. Not only does plastic harm wildlife, but it is also extremely damaging to humans. Did you know that humans are believed to ingest 52,000

microplastic particles annually? This is an extremely concerning statistic due to the fact that plastic is known to contain various toxic chemicals. The toxic pollutants and chemicals found in microplastic can lead to cancer as well as other harmful diseases, threatening human health on a global scale. In addition to an increase in plastic usage, our Earth is still struggling environmentally in other areas such as water scarcity, deforestation, wildfires, oil spills, and many more environmental disasters. Although it seems as though the future does not look promising due to the irresponsible way humans currently treat our planet, it is still not too late

to conserve our environment. SHA’s Environmental Action Club is helping to educate students about current world sustainability issues, while encouraging everyone to do her or his part. The club’s mission is to help preserve the natural beauty of Long Island and to bring awareness to environmental issues directly affecting our community.

Organizing beach clean-ups and working to discourage the use of single-use plastic are the two ways our Club hops to make an impact on the Long Island community at large and the SHA community more specifically. Come join our club in room 210 to help make a difference for our planet.

Faculty Retreat

By Hailey Freire ’26 At Sacred Heart Academy, our faith is very important. As I was assigned to interview a few of my teachers, I asked them “In a few sentences, could you describe your recent faculty retreat experiences?” And, here are some responses…

Mrs. Danielle Adolphus: “The faculty retreat provided us with an opportunity as a community to take a break from the day-to-day and to unwind and rejuvenate. The speaker was thoughtprovoking and engaging and provided us with opportunities for self-reflection.

I personally enjoyed the opportunity to reflect on people who have inspired us in our lives.

Mrs. Camille Emmett: “The speaker was very informative. It was a very prayerful experience and it was very nice to share in an experience where I could connect with other faculty and staff in a faith-sharing experience.”

Ms. ElenaGentile: “I thought it was a wonderful retreat and Christ-centered. A very spiritual and relaxing day.”

Ms. Megan Lavery: “We had ample and important silent time to reflect with guided questions about our cloud of witnesses and how they influence us.

We discussed how these clouds of influence have been present in joyous and difficult times.”

In reflecting on the responses provided by the faculty members regarding the recent faculty retreat in November, it becomes apparent that the retreat served as a respite from the demands of their daily professional pursuits. In delineating the faculty’s responses, their collective expressions underscore the retreat’s role as a sanctum for holistic rejuvenation, fostering not only intellectual enrichment but spiritual nourishment as well. This duality is emblematic of the Sacred Heart values, which emphasize the harmonious integration of intellectual and spiritual growth.

The emphasis placed on selfreflection, communal faith sharing, and Christ-centeredness resonates deeply with the Sacred Heart values, wherein the pursuit of personal growth is intricately entwined with the fostering of a spiritually enriched community.

The faculty’s expressions illuminate the retreat’s alignment with these values, elucidating its capacity to serve as a conduit for the faculty’s spiritual and intellectual edification, thus reinforcing their commitment to SHA values.

Rock the Street, Wall Street: Exploring Finance & Investment Literacy

By Isabella Fernandim ’26

skills hands-on. On account of this, sophomore and freshman groups set This fall, Sacred Heart was fortunate out on a field trip to visit Molloy College to introduce the Rock the Street, Wall on November 13th. Upon their arrival Street program to our school, a finanat Molloy, they were greeted with a cial and investment literacy program delightful breakfast and engaged in designed to spark the interest of high an exciting buzzer game that quizzed school girls exploring fields of finance. them about business and stocks, creatThis was made possible through the ing a fun and competitive environment. involvement of previous Sacred Heart Students were also offered the opporalumnae who majored in business and tunity to join one of Molloy’s summer finance and came back to share their business programs, tailored for teenagexpertise in the field. Students were ers seeking to further their interest and engaged in fun activities to imitate man- education in the field. Shortly after, aging finances in the real world. After six the freshmen and sophomores were enriching weeks of the program, it was joined by the juniors, who received an time for students to apply their acquired extensive tour throughout the college.

Molloy students guided various groups throughout their campus, which allowed Sacred Heart students a glimpse into the college atmosphere. This immersive program not only taught Sacred Photo credit: Sacred Heart

Heart students how to be financially responsible in their daily lives but also empowered them to continue leading with heart, establishing a foundation of success in their future endeavors.

Page 4 Cordette February 2024 Sophomore Retreat

By Maeve Going ’26

This November, the sophomore class went on retreat. We visited Brentwood where we visited the motherhome of the Sisters of Saint Joseph.

While on retreat, we engaged in activities to strengthen our relationship with God. The day started on the bus-ride to Brentwood, followed by a gathering in the Convent. In small groups, we completed three activities: making a balloon tower, friendship bracelets, and skits. The balloon tower was a challenge where we were in competition to build the tallest tower with only tape and balloons. Then, we constructed friendship bracelets, sharing them with our fellow retreaters. Lastly, we performed skits from Bible stories. My group did a skit based on Jesus curing the lepers.

We enjoyed a satisfying lunch, after which we were able to explore the convent’s gardens, older buildings, and wildlife. In the afternoon, we took part in a group activity where we were blindfolded, while a group member led us across the field. We were challenged to see which group could follow the path the fastest. This activity helped us practice our faith and trust in others. We ended the day with a relaxing bus ride back to Sacred Heart.

Spiritual Life/Arts & Leisure

Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes

By Jacqueline Bodycomb ’24

In the grand tradition of cinematic experiences, I recently embarked on a journey to the movies with a few friends from school, eagerly anticipating the latest addition to the Hunger Games franchise: The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes. Armed with snacks I snuck in the theater (because I’m cheap or, may I say, cost-conscious)) and with a collective excitement that rivaled the intensity of the Hunger Games themselves, we settled into our seats for what we hoped would be a dazzling spectacle of rebellion, political intrigue, and honestly, Tom Blyth. Let me begin by saying that my friends and I, the illustrious film critics, unanimously agreed that The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes is nothing short of fabulous. Of course, our standards are exceptionally high, having subjected ourselves to countless mediocre films and surviving the trauma of poorly executed adaptations (*cough* Percy Jackson Movies *cough*). Yet, this latest installment in the Hunger Games universe managed to captivate our attention, leaving us with a sense of awe.

Now, let’s delve into the movie’s triumphs. The casting, for one, was spot-on. Coriolanus Snow, portrayed

with eerie perfection by Tom Blyth, showcases a charisma that made us question why we ever rooted against him in the first place. His journey from a somewhat sympathetic figure to the icy villain is a roller coaster of emotion that reminds you exactly why you hated him in the first place. Also Rachel Zegler.

Enough said.

The film’s production design deserves a standing ovation. From the decadence of the Capitol to the bleakness of District 12, every detail is meticulously crafted, transporting us effortlessly into the dystopian world we’ve come to know and dread. It’s almost as if the set designers raided the closets of avant-garde fashion designers, threw in a dash of post-apocalyptic grunge, and voila – Capitol couture at its finest.

However, no film is without its faults, and The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes is no exception. While our despised protagonist, young Coriolanus Snow, holds our attention with his internal struggles and broken moral compass, the movie does linger on his journey longer than necessary. At times, we found ourselves yearning for more action, less existential musings, and for him to stick around when Lucy Gray was singing AS HE DID IN THE BOOK. Now, for the pièce de sarcasm:

the title. The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes sounds like the kind of book title one might expect from a literatureloving Capitol resident who insists on putting “The” in front of every sentence.

I half-expected a Capitol-sponsored choir to serenade us with a melodic ode to the joys of totalitarian rule. Alas, that was not the case.

Basically, The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes is a visual feast, a narrative odyssey, and a satirical commentary on the capriciousness of power. Despite its quirks and the moral ambiguity of its main character, the film managed to win me over with its dazzling aesthetics and the same intensity that made the original Hunger Games trilogy a cultural phenomenon. I highly recommend the movie and if dystopian isn’t your thing, I’m sure at least one of the actors or actresses will be.

Photo Credit: Teen Vogue

Five All-Time Winter Movie Favorites Worth Watching Again & Again

By Francesca Tolentino ’26

Holidays are one of the best times of the year for people of all ages.

Families and friends come together to celebrate a plethora of holidays during the fall and winter seasons. Throughout this time, many people bond by watching movies or TV shows that revolve around Christmas.

Christmas movies are exciting, bright, and cozy. Many maintain that the best movies are Christmas movies - so, here are some that many people, including myself, blissfully enjoy.

Starting at Number Five, The Grinch Who Stole Christmas is one of the all-time classic Christmas movies that everyone enjoys. The Grinch is a story

by Dr. Seuss that has been turned into a movie. It is a children’s story about a green, scary monster, named The Grinch, that lives an isolated life with his dog, Max, inside a cave on Mount Crumpet. His largest aggravation is Christmas time since his neighbors “The Whos” are loud and extremely festive. The Grinch believes that there is only one way to gain peace and quiet during Christmas time: with the help of Max, the Grinch comes up with a plan to steal the happiness of Christmas from “The Whos.” He poses as Santa Claus with Max as a reindeer and plans to steal the holiday cheer from “The Whos” once and for all.

This movie is an all-time classic which many people enjoy with their families.

With its catchy songs and bright colors, it makes for the perfect Christmas movie.

Number Four is The Polar Express, a book turned into a movie starring Tom Hanks. This is a story of a young boy who has lost his belief in Santa.

One night he hears a loud noise, a train, which is headed for the North Pole. Once aboard the train, he meets many boys and girls also going to the North Pole. In particular, he befriends an intelligent, wise, funny girl and a poor boy. On the way to the North Pole, everyone is excited; however, there are complications such as icy tracks and lost tickets. At the North Pole, the children meet Santa and the boy gets the first bell from Santa’s sleigh which restores his belief in Santa. When he returns home, he receives a present from Santa, solidifying his renewed faith . This movie reminds people that the Christmas spirit is alive and allows people of all ages to capture it again. No matter if someone is five or forty, he or she will feel the Christmas spirit alive making Christmas more thrilling and exciting while and after watching this movie.

An all-time classic is Number Three: Home Alone, a movie starring Macaulay Culkin, in which a boy, Kevin McCallister, is left home by his parents.

Kevin acts out before a family trip to Paris by saying that he wishes he never had a family, and his mother makes him sleep in the attic. The next morning, the McCallister family, accidentally leaving Kevin behind, is on their way to the airport without Kevin. When he awakens, he wonders if his wish has come true. At first, he celebrates his unsupervised freedom: eating ice cream and enjoying having the house to himself, but all the while two ex-con men, the Sticky Bandits, are spying on him. They intrude upon Kevin’s alone time. When Kevin realizes the danger they pose, he must protect the family home. Though the story may seem like an adrenaline rush that teaches

children about being brusque toward their parents, it is not. The story teaches people how important family is no matter how members may act toward you. Kevin’s time alone makes him realize that family will not always be with him , so he should respect and love them while he scan. This holiday movie brings families together, leaving each member with the message that family is everyone’s main priority. Even though Home Alone is a fantastic movie, the sequel is even better.

Number Two: Home Alone 2 In this storyline, Kevin McCallister loses his family at the airport and accidently boards a plane to New York City while his family is on a flight to Florida.

Kevin uses methods to con his way to securing a hotel room at the Plaza Hotel where he begins to live a relaxing life of ordering room service, watching movies, and taking bubble baths.

While enjoying his time of luxury, he finds out that the Sticky Bandits are on the loose in New York after breaking out of prison. They are attempting to rob a toy shop right before Christmas and also try to break into Kevin’s hotel room. While all of the crime and chaos is going down in New York, Kevin’s parents are in Florida attempting to find their child and file a missing persons report. Home Alone 2: Lost in New York has the main theme of family as did its predecessor.Family members support and take care of one another and make sure that family is safe even in frightening and insane situations. The support of family during Christmas is especially poignant because Christmas is all about family and love, which makes this movie one of the most watched during the holiday season.

Finally, my favorite Christmas movie is Elf, a Christmas movie that was so popular that it was subsequently turned into a play. Elf centers on Buddy, a human baby, who was transported to the North Pole and raised among elves well into his adulthood. He constantly feels out of place and decides to free himself of this feeling by traveling to New York in search of his real father. He eventually finds his father, Walter, who is a miserable businessman in need of Christmas spirit. Buddy and Walter run a DNA test and realize that they need to rekindle their relationship which ends in love and chaos. Not only does Buddy find his father, but he meets Jovie, a Macy’s elf, and believes that she is the one for him. All in all, Buddy and his family are reunited and Jovie and Buddy are happy, which shows how love is the source of all happiness, togetherness, and jolliness. Elf is a Christmas classic which allows families to get together,sing catchy songs, and eat Buddy’s signature meal, Spaghetti and Syrup.

Christmas is a time for families to come together, enjoy each others company, and reflect on how lucky they are to be together. Throughout these five movies, common themes of love, togetherness, and family allow for them to be warm and comforting during the Christmas season. These movies hold a special place in many people’s hearts during the holiday season and bring joy to people of all ages. Christmas is a time for laughter and warmth which can be enhanced by watching these favorite Christmas movies.

Arts & Leisure

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Powerhouse Female Vocalists: Revisiting This Season’s Christmas Hits

By Katherine Cielusniak ’26

When it comes to the best Christmas songs, there are three that have stood out this past season. First, “Underneath the Tree” by Kelly Clarkson is a fan favorite with a joyful message and upbeat tempo. Then, “Santa Tell Me”

by Ariana Grande, a modern hit that captures the excitement and longing for love during the holidays. Finally, we can’t forget, “All I Want for Christmas Is You” by Mariah Carey which is a classic Christmas melody that captures Carey’s unparalleled vocals. These songs bring Christmas cheer during the season and put everyone in the Christmas spirit.

“Underneath The Tree” by Kelly Clarkson is a Christmas essential that everyone enjoys each season. This song is pulled from her first Christmas album, Wrapped In Red which debuted on October 25, 2013, a pop hit that voices her longing for love and comfort instead of physical presents under the tree for Christmas. The message of Clarkson’s song is often compared to that of Mariah Carey’s 1994 hit, “All I Want for Christmas Is You” as they portray a similar desire for “gifts” other

than ones of a material nature. This song stands out among the multitude of holiday songs this season because of its relatability to what lies in the hearts of many listeners. In addition this song has a fun, upbeat melody that echoes the Christmas spirit and gets everyone in a festive mood as it shares Clarkson’s gratitude for and happiness throughout the Christmas season.

While “Underneath the Tree” is a Christmas essential, an additional song that stands out is Ariana Grande’s, “Santa Tell Me”. Released on November 24, 2013 by Republic Records, this modern pop song was heard throughout the Christmas season. With over a billion streams on Spotify alone, “Santa Tell Me” is one of the most popular songs of Grande’s career as it continues to be one of the iconic songs that shares the longing for loyal and true love during the holiday season along with excitement for the upcoming season. The song lyrics voice a deep fear of being neglected and hurt during the holiday season, reflected in the lyrics, “‘Cause I can give it all away if he won’t be here next year.” Grande vocalizes how she cannot focus on Christmas lights or mistletoe unless she experi-

ences true love. This song is similar to Carey’s pop hit, “All I Want for Christmas Is You” and to Wham!’s smash hit, “Last Christmas” as they all share the wish for love on the holidays. Grande nails this song with a great rhythm and beat that makes it one of the best Christmas songs. The meaning behind the song and the lyrics make most people want to sing along – a perfect Christmas anthem.

Finally, the most streamed Christmas song, “All I Want for Christmas Is You” by pop star Mariah Carey, aptly named “The Queen of Christmas” is definitely one of the best Christmas songs and a holiday essential for any playlist, party, or event. The song is an absolute classic that really stands out with a mix of Christmas cheer and heartfelt music, sure to put everyone in the Christmas spirit. In the lyrics, Carey says that she does not want presents or any material objects, but instead, wants a lover of her own for Christmas. Throughout any Christmas season, it is certain that everyone will hear this song. Accompanying Carey’s high vocal range, this up-tempo Christmas song is replete with background music and jingle bells to properly start

off the season.

On October 29, 1994, the Columbia Records offering, “All I Want for Christmas Is You” became the lead single of Carey’s first holiday album, Merry Christmas and since has sold over 60 million copies as it kicks off the Christmas season. The song shares the message that she does not care about Christmas festivities including decorations and lights, unless her wish to be with her true love for Christmas is granted. With its modern pop beat and Mariah Carey’s whistle notes, this song continues to be a sure-fire favorite every year.

In conclusion, these three songs, “Underneath the Tree”, “Santa Tell Me”, and “All I Want for Christmas Is You”, are the best Christmas songs and each shares its own unique charm that makes the Christmas season even more festive. Whether you are in the mood for Kelly Clarkson’s upbeat tune, Ariana Grande’s relatable and festive hit, or Mariah Carey’s timeless classic, year after year, these songs are sure to get everyone in the spirit and they are truly the best Christmas songs for the holiday season.

Film Review: Emma Reiter Picks the Best Movies of 2023 (Part I)

By Emma Reiter ’24 I was no stranger to the resurgence of popular cinema that occurred this year. During the pandemic, we witnessed the experience of consuming movies relegated to streaming services; although this new age alternative is undoubtedly convenient and enabled Hollywood to continue to release movies in a time when viewing them in a theater was not an option, I, alongside many other movie buffs, has relished the ability to finally return to the theater and enjoy movies on the big screen.

2023 felt like such a unique year for movie goers because now, more independent-and typically more alternative and unique- movies are breaking through to the mainstream and are reaching an audiences as large as that viewing the typical blockbusters produced by huge film corporations.

I have also noted that this year saw a surge in biopics and period pieces- my top five list of favorite movies from this year itself is comprised of all films set in a time prior to the present, which I believe reflects society’s growing craving

for escapism - to be momentarily transported away from the oftentimes overwhelming state of the world.

Without further ado, here is my ranking of my top five movies that I viewed in theaters this past year.

5. Oppenheimer (directed by Christopher Nolan)This is definitely the most large-scale movie to break into my top five, but beyond the star-studded cast and notable director, Oppenheimer’s popularity was aided by the pop-culture phenomenon dubbed “Barbenheimer”, aptly named due to the fact that both Greta Gerwig’s Barbie and this movie were released on the same Friday in July. The buildup for this flick was enormous, and I was personally not let down. The set design, score, and cinematography were phenomenal and truly aided in achieving the tense, borderline nostalgic feel that this story and its perspectives brought. I was gripped by the themes of personal responsibility, betrayal, and the maddening impact of genius that were put forth, and the alternative perspective between the muted colors of Oppenheimer’s past during the Manhattan Project and his

black-and-white present following the dropping of the bombs and subsequent trial, all of which helped to make the over three- hour run-time fly by. My only criticism is that because of the large cast of characters, some parts of the plot felt very rushed and a little confusing, with minor storylines seeming to come out of nowhere. Additionally, the two leading women (played by Florence Pugh and Emily Blunt) were not as strongly written as I believe they could have been, given the large production budget in place- Pugh and Blunt are incredibly actresses, but I found that the underlying misogynistic ways that they were written prevented them and the audience from truly exploring their characters. All-in-all, though, a film well worth your time and attention.

4. Priscilla (directed by Sofia Coppola) I am an absolute sucker for quietly understated movies that feel like nothing much is happening. Add in an element of historical fiction and a feminist perspective and I am especially hooked.

Coppola’s biopic, Priscilla, tells the story of Elvis and Priscilla Presley from

the point of view of Priscilla herself, taking us from their first meeting when she was 14 to her eventual decision as a young woman in her late 20s to divorce him. Their courtship and eventual marriage were turbulent, and oftentimes devastating, for Priscilla, who was held on a pedestal as Elvis’s “ideal girl”.

Actress Cailee Spaeny did an incredible job portraying Priscilla throughout all stages of her life with Elvis, convincingly playing both a 15-year-old and a 25-year old, and actor Jacob Elordi truly showed off his acting range via his portrayal of Elvis. Although this movie paints the famous musician in a far less complimentary light than did the 2021 Baz Luhrmann movie, Elvis, Priscilla exhibits the full range of their relationship- the good, the bad, and the ugly- with a healthy dose of gentleness and compassion granted both Priscilla and Elvis. Similar to Oppenheimer, the particular set and costume designs as well as the score work to fully create the 1950s-1970s atmosphere of Priscilla’s life.

Fan Favorite Released: 1989 (Taylor’s Version) Review

By Maeve Going ’26

October 27, 2023 was a magical day for Swifties everywhere. The long-awaited fan favorite album, 1989 (Taylor’s Version) was released, nine years later to the day after the album was originally released. The re-release of the album now includes five neverheard “vault” tracks that were written around 2014 by Taylor Swift, but never put onto the original album. Personally, my favorite song from the vault is “Is It Over Now?” In my opinion, it is a crime

that this pop hit wasn’t released earlier.

The album varies from the original; yet, it mostly includes the same songs as the album released nine years ago contained. Most notably, the album cover is different from the original album cover, which featured a polaroid photo, with Swift wearing a seagull-covered shirt.

The re-released album shows Swift on the beach, surrounded by seagulls, in a polaroid photo format. Significantly, 1989 (Taylor’s Version) shows an immense maturity in Swift’s vocals.

Through this album, Swift broke

her own record of the “most single-day streams for an artist,” surpassing that of her 2022 album, Midnights. The album also spent two consecutive weeks on the charts as the #1 album. 1989 is an album that can be enjoyed by many generations, both those who enjoyed it at its original release and future generations to come. If you haven’t already listened, I guarantee it will be worth your while, with songs fit for many tastes, including pop hits, nostalgic tunes, and the best breakup songs- ever!

Photo credit: Wahawk Insider

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Sports/Advice

Morgan’s Message and The Importance of an Athlete’s Mental Health

By Emily Valeant ’26 At Sacred Heart Academy, we focus on school, sports, and our mental health. Practice is not the only factor of an exemplary student-athlete; her wellbeing and mindset go hand in hand with competing. At SHA, our athletics are top-tier, but our team’s bonds, overall message, and sportsmanship are even better! In the sports world, competition can sometimes be draining, taking a toll on the mental health of athletes who are trying to focus on the sport and perform to the best of their ability. Not paying attention to the needs of mental health can actually lessen athletic performance.

An athlete must have a top-tier mental state to perform optimally, maintain focus, find balance, and build resilience. Such a centered state is also essential because sports and athletics can improve leadership skills, lead to the forming of new bonds and friendships, and increase happiness; however, if an athlete suffers from a struggling mental illness, an increased rate of injuries and a quieter performance are likely to ensue. An NCAA interview titled “Social Series: Focusing on Mental

Health” composed of former athletes, therapists, and those who work very closely with athletes such as coaches and trainers was aired last May since it is well known that May is mental health awareness month. As admirable as this interview was, May should not be the sole time when mental health is given attention. People all around the world suffer various forms of mental illness; this should be a topic discussed not just for a month but throughout all twelve months of every year. Some individuals are very worried that seeking help for a mental illness will result in negative consequences such as being mocked or stigmatized. Still, recognizing and addressing mental illness is imperative, for recovery from depression or anxiety does not come easy for many, especially athletes.

Much of the stress caused by sports is rooted in youth sports. For college athletes to thrive at the collegiate level, their health and well-being need to be strong, fostered from a very young age at the youngest of levels. A degree of stress in sports is also exacerbated by academic responsibilities. An athlete who is expected to succeed both in the classroom and on the field could be

stressed if he or she is not adept at time management, as work starts to pile up, necessitating missed practices, which all leads to more and more stress being added to one’s daily routine.

Seeking out help for a mental illness can be challenging as there are many stigmas relating to reaching out for help. For instance, one can seem weaker than others, less of a leader, or less confident in one’s abilities, all false but vet real assumptions for one suffering mental illness. Reaching out for help is more courageous than it is embarrassing. Think to yourself, if you broke your ankle, would you let that go untreated? So, why let your mental health deteriorate? An athlete can only succeed if his or her head is in the game; otherwise, even if the team wins, he or she still loses. The athletes at SHA are top-notch as we succeed in gameplay and support various worthy causes, such as Morgan’s Message which empowers those who are suffering mental issues in silence and strives to eliminate the stigmas surrounding mental health. Morgan’s Message was started soon after Morgan Rodgers’s passing on July 11, 2019, at the age of 22. Morgan was an exceptional athlete

Advice: Making Realistic New Year’s Resolutions

By Katherine Torre ’25

It’s crazy to think that we have made it through another entire year, when it feels like only yesterday, we celebrated New Year’s Eve, counting down the minutes to 2023. Now that we are entering 2024, I think we can all collectively agree there is a need and sudden urge to reconstruct our routines, all because the calendar has turned to January 1st. “What are some of your new year’s resolutions?” is the constant question among our friends and family when the year kicks off, leaving us with new pressure to find flaws in our lives to revamp. While yes, there is importance behind the action of taking the time before the new year to evaluate our lives and our current habits, there is also importance in understanding that it is not always easy to quickly adapt to new ways of routine. As much as the term, “New Year’s resolutions” can be a great way to categorize new goals for yourself, many of us tend to fall into the trap of following everyone else’s new habits and not the ones that are most relatable or realistic to us.

The list of benefits in reaching a new personal goal include motivation, more accountability, increase in focus, etc,

but the stress and pressure we put on ourselves for the New Year can counteract our original intentions. Stated

by Dr. Sophie Lazarus, a psychologist at the Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, in reference to the making of New Year’s resolutions: “We sometimes think it’s going to help us get more done or be more productive or make this change we really want to make. I think it really tends to just increase our stress and make things worse”(CNET). To make these goals productive, the actions we take to improve cannot be unrealistic in light of our capabilities, or they will make achieving a new goal harder and more negatively demanding rather than helping us improve. As this concept is further studied, the overall message that remains is one that should encourage us to be not only realistic,but also fully transparent with ourselves.

This year when you are asked the stressful question about New Year’s resolutions, first analyze what you do in your life that helps you be successful and then consider what is acting as a constraint in your progress. Not only will this narrow down your areas of imperfection, but it will help you make a comparison between the negative and positive actions that you perform,

Clipart credit: Vecteezy

so you can apply the positive actions to redefine the negative elements of your life. This is not the only important step towards an achievable goal, but once you have identified your strengths, slowly implementing them into different parts of your life to aid your weakness must be a slow and gradual process. “Gradual” presupposes a different timeline for everyone, but it should provide a blueprint for the course of action that should take place over a span of time that you know will be the most achievable for you and one that sets a non-stressful personal expectation. Step-by-step progress towards a goal and the consistent work put into it, all contribute to the change you will see in your life, so that either the smallest or the biggest goals can eventually be achieved. As we all enter this New Year and exchange our thoughts on new ways to improve, remember that the only goals that are authentic to us are goals that correspond with the position in our lives that grant us the ability to be our best selves. Wishing everyone a successful 2024!

and bright student recruited to play Division 1 lacrosse at Duke University. Still, after a knee injury that cut her season and career short, her mental health began to suffer as she felt her world was tumbling down on her. She suffered in silence and did not confide to her family her internal problems. Eventually, tragically, she could take her internal pain no longer and ended her own life.

Morgan’s Message was created to continue Morgan’s legacy and her energy as it empowers others. Morgan’s Message wants to foster the message that even though you are an athlete, it does not mean there is shame in seeking any form of physical healthcare, especially mental healthcare. Recovery from mental illness is achievable with the proper support. There is no shame in seeking help from a trusted adult or mental health professional and no reason to suffer in silence. You deserve to prioritize your well-being and receive the necessary support to overcome your struggles and live a fulfilling life.

Remember, you matter, and nothing should stop you from fully recovering.

For Football Fans

By Elizabeth Rizzo ’25

The New York Jets and Giants both had losing campaigns in the 2023-2024 season. For the New York Giants, it proved to be their eighth losing season in the past ten years, and for the New York Jets, their ninth losing season in the past ten years. The Giants have made the Playoffs only twice in the last decade and the Jets have not been to the postseason since 2010. The outlook for both teams is unclear- some would say, grim. The unsuccessful campaigns can most likely be attributed to recent quarterback injuries. Future Hall of Famer, Aaron Rodgers, tore his Achilles heel in the Jets first game of the 2023 season. Additionally, Giants quarterback, Daniel Jones, tore his ACL this past October, and will be out for the remainder of the season. Both quarterbacks are expected to return next season, although their re-entry to the grid comes with considerable question marks. Given the fact that Aaron Rodgers is 40 years old,many fans are concerned that he is no longer able to compete in the NFL. While Daniel Jones is younger, at age 27, he has been an unreliable player since his rookie year and many question the Giants decision to re-sign him to a $160 million contract with $92 million guaranteed. Expectations for 2024 are currently low, and both teams are likely looking to the draft in April to help their quarterback problems. The quarterback position on the Giants team has been questionable since Eli Manning retired in 2020, and the Jets have not had a long-term solution since Joe Namath led them to the Super Bowl in 1969.

Long-suffering New York football fans, loyal to the end, hope that their teams will not continue to fumble.