The Cordette Final lssue (No. 3) 2024

Vol. 73, No. 3

TheCordette

The SHA Spring Musical - The Little Mermaid

by Francesca Tolentino ’26

This year, Sacred Heart’s spring musical was The Little Mermaid, a story about a mermaid named Ariel who trades her voice to her Aunt Ursula for a chance to become human. The entire cast of The Little Mermaid worked endlessly to prepare and perform a fantastic show for everyone. I was intrigued to know how some of the cast and our director, Ms. Kelly Miller, felt while working on this fabulous show. So, I interviewed Gabi Heigel who played Ariel, Luciana Riveros who played Flounder, as well as Ms. Miller, our director: Ms. Miller:

1. How was your first time working with all of us?

“I admit I was a tad nervous to direct my first show at the High School level, having only directed primarily a younger age group before, but WOW! I was so excited at the level of talent and dedication I immediately witnessed in the cast. I couldn’t have hoped for a better group for my first show here at SHA.“

2. What was your favorite part about directing The Little Mermaid?

“My favorite part would have to be getting to know the cast and crew as we worked together and watching their development throughout the process. I enjoy providing a blueprint of a character/idea to students and watching them make it their own. Seeing students adding and expanding on these ideas in rehearsals and performances shows me that my goal of providing a safe place for creativity and creation has been accomplished! That to me is the best part.”

3. Which number was your favorite?

“Oh! I can hardly choose... I loved a lot of different numbers for different reasons. I loved them all! I really enjoyed the variety of this show and how so many cast members got a chance to shine, whether it be in lead or supporting roles, small ensembles- even the choreography alone made certain numbers stand out in my mind. I think if I really push myself I would go with the “Finale Ultimo”. Nothing was better than hearing everyone come together at the end of the show. It was truly so beautiful, I don’t think any recordings could do it justice. To be in the room and hear everyone singing together is a memory that I will always cherish.”

4. What was the best part about rehearsals?

“I think it had to be how much fun we had (I hope the cast agrees). Even when rehearsals got long and we had days where the overall energy turned more serious, I felt we always shared a laugh at each rehearsal and that always had me going home at the end of the day with a smile on my face.”

Gabi Heigel - Ariel & President:

“My favorite part of doing The Little Mermaid this year was getting the chance to really be able to serve as a leader and challenge myself as a performer. I had the amazing opportunity to play a role I’ve always dreamed of, and it was so exciting to branch out in that way. The Little Mermaid was a jam-packed, fun filled show, but behind that was a talented group of people who worked incredibly hard in

a million different ways to make that happen. I loved being able to learn this show piece by piece with everyone and watch it slowly come together into something beautiful. Most importantly, I got to do one more show with my best friends. We danced with each other if we were offstage for a song; we always cheered each other on, and every little moment spent together on and offstage is a memory I will cherish forever.”

Luciana Riveros - Flounder:

“Participating in the musical is the highlight of my year. Last year, as a freshman, I felt so welcomed by everyone. This year it was nice to be able to welcome others in the same way. It’s such an amazing way to make friends outside of your grade and meet new people. Everyone in the show was so kind, from the actors, to the techies, to the costume crew, and to our own Director, Ms. Miller. Taking on a bigger role, like Flounder, can be challenging, but I had so much fun. My character interacted with so many different people, so it was easy to bond with other cast members.”

This amazing and talented cast and crew worked endlessly on this entire production and I am so happy that I got a chance to be a part of this show as an assistant choreographer and cast member alongside this extremely talented cast and director. Thank you to Gabi, Luciana, and Ms. Miller for sharing their wonderful experiences working on this show. Congratulations to the entire cast and crew of The Little Mermaid on a spectacular performance!

The Leadership Awards Dinner: Funding Our Future

by Cecilia Renz ’27

It was a dark, crisp Friday evening as our car turned the corner and we were immersed in the thousand bright white lights of the Garden City Hotel, the site of the Annual Sacred Heart Leadership Awards Dinner. The gala is a cornerstone for alumnae relations and fund-raising activity as it showcases the esprit de corps, mission, and sisterhood that define Sacred Heart Academy. The Leadership Awards Dinner is an evening devoted to scholarship, defined as that which embodies intellectual curiosity, the pursuit of knowledge, and fortitude. The freedom to pursue knowledge in an environment that empowers women is an attraction for those of us who attend Sacred Heart. Scholarship is the pathway and power of the enlightened woman. As demonstrated by our

honorees, SHA alumnae have demonstrated scholarship throughout a vast array of disciplines. The funds generated by The Leadership Awards Dinner vastly expand young women’s access to Sacred Heart.

The night began with a welcome from President Kristin Graham who was accompanied by Mr. and Mrs. Sweeney, this year’s dinner sponsors. Mia Moran (25) provided a touching introduction to the night’s honorees, Elizabeth (Sweeney) Kahl (94), Maureen McNally (02), and Lisa (Petruccelli) McGuinness (07), an incredible group of inspirational alumnae. Elizabeth (Sweeney) Kahl is currently a Managing Director at Blue Owl Capital, a private equity firm. She is a former Chair of the SHA Board of Trustees. Maureen McNally is a Managing Direc-

tor and Wealth Manager with J.P Morgan Chase Wealth Management. Maureen achieved the Chartered Financial Analyst designation and is a member of the N.Y. Society of Security Analyst and CFA Institute. Ms. McNally is an active member of SHE-CAN, a nonprofit organization that assists young women from post- conflict countries attend American Universities. Lisa (Petruccelli) McGuinness is currently the first woman Chair of the Ocean Financial Federal Credit Union Board of Directors. In 2023, Mrs. McGuiness was vital in providing support from Ocean Financial Federal Credit Union as a primary sponsor/ supporter of Rock the Street, a program that introduces young women at SHA to Wall Street and the world of finance. Following the honorees, the gala moved to dinner, dance, and mer-

riment. As the crowd applauded every philanthropic target achieved, current SHA students had many opportunities to meet SHA alumnae. What especially moved me was the fact that SHA sisters from various classes told me that they return each year to the gala to reunite and reconnect with each other. In fact, they make it an annual “SHA Weekend!”

SHA provides an unparalleled environment for each of us to choose our path to scholarship. Attendees at the gala shared the unique ways Sacred Heart has touched their lives. The pride of current students, alumnae, faculty, and administration powers an effervescent optimism for the future making a truly remarkable evening a precursor to an equally remarkable future.

Photo credit: Sacred Heart

Editorial: Standardized Testing Pro or Con?

by Kayla Palumbo ’24

If you are a new upperclassman, or even beginning your final year of high school, you may be facing the daunting task of standardized testing. The SAT and ACT were created to aid colleges and universities in evaluating students’ academic performance and potential. Students used to be faced with one question: which test to take. The SAT is owned, developed, and published by the College Board, whereas the ACT is owned by the private equity firm, Nexus Capital Management. The main difference between these tests, however, lies in the tested subjects. The SAT is composed of two main sections: evidence-based reading and writing and math. On the other hand, the ACT, which is known for its slightly easier material yet faster pace, has four distinct sections: English, mathematics, reading, and science. Obviously, these businesses are in competition with each other, leading to the question, “Which one is better for college admissions?” Unfortunately, there is no clear answer to this inquiry, but rather, it is up to the student to choose which test best reflects his or her personal ability. Today’s college applicants, however, have another option: going test-optional. Test-optional policies were introduced during the height of the Coronavirus pandemic in response to various testing disruptions; however, many institutions still allow applicants to bypass these tests. All this has resulted in contrasting arguments regarding the pros and cons of standardized testing.

Supporters of standardized testing cite the ability of SAT and ACT scores to predict future success in higher education. A huge advantage of standardized testing lies in its power to nullify grade inflation, whereby students are awarded higher grades than they deserve for

the quality of work they submit each successive year. In addition, although education is regulated at state levels, different schools and teachers naturally have varying testing/grading techniques. This poses a difficulty for colleges when comparing applicants because one’s high school grades may not be completely indicative of potential and achievement. Therefore, a standardized test can offer an “equal playing field,” in which students are scored on the same scale. Those against standardized testing, however, argue that this field is anything but equal. Due to score gaps generated by race and class, these tests have been credited with favoring privileged applicants. For example, students from higher income classes have sufficient means to hire specialized tutors and pay for multiple examination attempts. The college application process is unfortunately not a cheap expense, leaving many students with an inability to finance these luxuries and boost their scores. For this reason, standardized testing comes with its own form of grade inflation. On the other hand, some dispute this claim and argue that standardized tests are quite fair compared to other aspects of a college application, such as the focus on supplemental essays and extracurricular activities. Typically, affluent students enjoy guidance from educated parents as well as the time and means to participate in various activities, such as music lessons and travel sports teams, advantages denied students from lower-income households. The SAT was actually created to give disadvantaged students a fighting chance, and it was viewed by Harvard administration as a way to recognize gifted students who succeed despite their background. Therefore, it can be seen

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.

that a complex argument surrounds the question of whether standardized testing is beneficial to the college admissions process, resulting in a “temporary” test-optional policy has been the solution for many institutions.

In response to the popularity of the test-optional movement and the desire to return to reinstated standardized testing, the College Board has adopted a digital SAT format in March, 2024. The digital SAT was designed to provide a shorter and more personalized testing experience for students, which will serve to benefit students with learning differences and testing anxiety, who often opted out of testing when given the option; however, the most controversial part of this updated format is the personalization aspect. Rather than one, consistent paper exam, each student will receive questions directly based on his or her performance. This may reduce anxiety for some, but the lack of predictability of the questions may pose a new difficulty when preparing for the exam. As an upcoming college freshman, I was more than happy to take my SAT on paper. As a visual learner, I often comprehend material better when annotating questions directly on the booklet, a practice which has directly contributed to my improved grades, but this is not feasible on digital exams. In addition, existing preparation material such as past practice exams may differ from the personalized digital format. For these reasons, I would not wish to be the College Board’s guinea pig, and I can only wonder if this will increase the popularity of the ACT exam, which is still given on paper.

Amidst this controversy and change, high school applicants are left stressed and confused in the new world

of standardized testing. Some prestigious schools such as Dartmouth, Yale, Brown, Georgetown, Caltech, and MIT have even reinstated testing requirements. The Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), one of the leading STEM universities in the nation, found that accepted students with lower test scores were more likely to drop out, and this institution therefore recognized the value of standardized testing. After two years with test-optional policies, MIT brought back testing requirements in 2022, and as a result, they claim to have accepted their most diverse class to date. Nonetheless, roughly 80% of colleges in the upcoming admissions season will still allow students to apply without test scores, and the University of California schools have completely stopped considering SAT and ACT scores in their admissions. But now students are left to wonder, is test-optional really optional? Unfortunately, there is no clear answer. According to most testoptional colleges, not submitting scores cannot and will not hurt your chances, but in reality, it is impossible to know who will be reviewing your application and that individual’s own views on standardized testing. As a result, a new “holistic” approach to standardized testing has emerged, in which colleges consider test scores only according to an applicant’s overall application and life circumstances. Although this offers a vague description of the admissions process, it serves as a reminder that your own effort is the only thing in your control when it comes to college admissions. It may sound cliche, but my advice is to continue to try your very best. So relax, good luck, and just power through this weird process!

The March for Life 2024

by Elizabeth Rizzo ’25

The January 19th March for Life marked an annual event that brings together thousands of people from all over the United States to advocate for the protection of unborn life. People come together in Washington D.C. to peacefully demonstrate their belief in the inherent right to life. They believe that life begins at conception and abortion is morally wrong. This annual March for Life serves as a demonstration of unified advocacy to affirm protesters’ opinion that every human life, beginning at conception, should be protected.

The March for Life represents the expression of free speech, enabling supporters to peacefully express their opinions and advocate their beliefs. While this event is rooted in the idea that everyone has the right to life, it is an opportunity for people to come and express their different religious, political, and ethical perspectives. Regardless of the variety of beliefs represented, this event represents the exercising of the First Amendment right. Participants in the March for life exercise their First Amendment right by carrying signs, giving speeches, and assembling peacefully. This event has gone on for five decades and

each year more and more people have come to support the cause. This march has grown in size and significance, over the years, and has highlighted the importance of freedom of speech in the United States.

This year’s march featured speakers like Jim Daly, President and CEO of Focus on the Family, and Pastor Greg Laurie of Harvest Christian Fellowship. These speakers focused on advocating for the rights of unborn beings and brought more awareness to this topic. The presence of speakers like Jim Daly and Pastor Greg Laurie helps to represent the voices fighting for the protection of unborn children. These passionate addresses served to deepen the understanding of the importance and complexities of this issue.

On one level, the March for Life is a vocal national-focused anti-abortion demonstration, but it is not the only concentration. The recent Supreme Court ruling has returned that right to life question to the states. Activists should continue to work on local and state levels to defend unborn children. We must work on a local level to change laws in states such as New York where abortion is still legal.

Sacred Heart Academy Italy Trip:  Livin’ La Dolce Vita

by Mary Kate Macchiarola ’25

This past spring break, Sacred Heart took on Italy! Over fifty students made their way to Europe alongside five teacher chaperones. This ten-day adventure began with a red- eye flight to Venice where we were brought, by boat, to our hotel on the island of Lido. Once established in Lido, we quickly made our way to the main island of Venice by taking public transportation called a “vaporetto” which is the equivalent to the subway, except on water. Heavy rain fell throughout the day and this was definitely not ideal because Venice is already surrounded by water. The city seemed impossibly flooded, but that did not stop the fearless SHA contingent from adventuring. The city provided elevated platforms for us to walk on; otherwise, the water would have been to our knees in some places! The day ended with a group dinner of lasagna and, of course, with a cone of gelato to finish the day right.

The second day in Venice started bright and early. As we made our way to the vaporetto we were excited to see that the weather was already better than it was the previous day. Once we got off the boat, we made our way to the glass blowing demonstration. It was extremely cool to see one solid piece of glass be molded into a stallion glass piece right before our eyes, in less than five minutes! After we witnessed the demonstration, we had the opportunity to shop for glass products and purchase souvenirs for our families. The glass items in the shop included jewelry, glass statues, and more! Then, we headed over to a restaurant to try

tapas. Tapas, an appetizer that originally started in Spain, was adopted in time by Italians. We snacked on different types of fish, meats, and cheeses before continuing on with our day. Our last activity of the day was the iconic gondola ride. We rode in groups of five through the water alleys in Venice and it definitely was a memory I will never forget.

Next, we headed to Florence by bus. We made one pit stop at an auto grill to experience what a rest stop was like in Italy. In about four hours, we made it to Florence and first stopped at our hotel before making our way to the heart of the city. Since we had endured a long day of travel, it was a gift to enjoy a relaxing day with a quick visit to a leather store and a group dinner and then rest up for the next day. Our second day in Florence fell on Easter Sunday. Everyone dressed her best as we excitedly made our way into

the city for a long day of activities. Our first activity was Fresco painting. Florence is a very historical city that is famous for its fresco paintings and Renaissance artwork. We received a tutorial of how to compose fresco paintings on cement and we even got to try our hand at it ourselves. Next, we headed on to a city tour where we walked through the city and learned about its beauty and history. We saw famous artworks and even got to slide a coin down the snout of the Bronze Pig! At the end of the tour we visited the famous Academia Gallery which houses the statue of David alongside other famous pieces of art. We concluded our busy day with Easter Sunday Mass in the magnificent Duomo of Florence.

The next day we endured a long day of travel because our next stop was Sorrento. We woke up and headed right to the bus and got

Junior Celebrations: Here’s to the Class of 2025!

by Noelle McElhinney ’25

What an eventful week for our Juniors! In a whirlwind of a month, with A.P. exams and final reviews commencing at full speed, Juniors were still able to celebrate a difficult but rewarding year, and prepare for Senior year ahead. On Thursday, April 25, Juniors and their families gathered together for a Ring & Pin Ceremony. This ceremony was a wonderful opportunity for students to recognize their achievements throughout their high school year thus far. Furthermore, it was a chance for all Juniors to appreciate the friendships formed, and the memories made at SHA that will last a lifetime. The class ring or pin bestowed upon each respective student is a true testament to the permanence of the SHA family. Years after graduation, these rings and pins will display the truly one-ofa-kind experience that SHA offers to its students.

Following the Ring & Pin

ready for our seven-hour bus ride. A few hours into the trip, we made a quick stop in a small city called Orvieto where we enjoyed a lunch break and got to see a beautiful church called the Duomo di Orvieto. After the quick pit stop, we continued traveling towards Sorrento. The trip was very long, but the immaculate views from the bus made it well worth it. For our second day in Sorrento, we took a day trip to the city of Capri. This day left us with free time to explore the gorgeous town and of course try the lemon juices that this city is known for.

The next day, we headed for Rome, but first, we stopped at Pompeii. It was very intriguing to see this historical landmark and to actually set foot in the city that was conserved by ashes for hundreds of years. Three hours later, we were excited to arrive at the infamous city of Rome. When we first arrived, we walked around and got dinner so we could prepare ourselves for the busy day ahead of us. We were so fortunate to get a tour of the Vatican and we even got to see firsthand the Sistine Chapel. Then we ventured to the Colosseum and the Trevi Fountain while squeezing in shopping in between.

I had so much fun on this trip and it was a very good experience to have with so many of my classmates and teachers. Although some of us ended up on return flights to Boston, Montreal, and Newark, we all made it home safely with memories of a great time in Italy. This trip was definitely filled with memories we will never forget.

ceremony, it was time for Juniors to have some fun! All of the girls got dressed up in beautiful dresses, and made ready for the Junior Dinner Dance. Taking place at the Inn at New Hyde Park, the Dance was a truly amazing night. It was a night of dancing, great food, and countless memories. The venue was utterly amazing, offering beautiful decor and ambience. All those in attendance had a fabulous time, enjoying the much needed break from school work.

Although occurring at an extremely busy time of year, these special events for the Juniors could not have come at a better time. Both the Ring & Pin Ceremony as well as the Dinner Dance gave Juniors the chance to truly celebrate themselves. As this school year comes to an end, these special events gave Juniors a preview of all the fun activities that will take place throughout their Senior year.

Photo credit: Sacred Heart Instagram

Photo credit: Sacred Heart

Photo credit: Sacred Heart Yearbook

Valedictorian Kaitlyn Cole Salutatorian Kaitlin Fravert

Page 4 Cordette June 2024 News/Spiritual Life

Senior Disney Trip: It’s a Small World After All

by Kayla Palumbo ’24

This past March our seniors enjoyed a magical class trip to Disney World! Starting the first day bright and early, students were gathered in the SHA Cafe at 5:00 AM and boarded the buses to the airport. After a three hour flight full of excitement and anticipation, we were ready to explore our first Disney park: Epcot. My first ride was Spaceship Earth, the signature ride of Epcot that takes you through a gentle journey of time and human history. As a first time Disney visitor, to say I was amazed would be a drastic understatement. The modernized technology used to design the famous life-sized animatronics, which often leave me to question whether they are actors or robots, tell captivating stories along many of the rides in the Disney parks. One of the most impressive rides in Epcot is the Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind. This reverse launch coaster brings you through an exhilarating space pursuit with your favorite heroes. Through the duration of the ride, you also get to listen to a song from Star-Lord’s esteemed playlist (we

got “September” by Earth, Wind, and Fire). After checking off this bucket list item, we took a trip abroad to the various countries represented in Epcot. By enjoying a sushi lunch in Japan, followed by a pizza dinner in Italy, we traveled the world, learning about new cultures and trying delicious food. For dessert, I had to try the famous Disney Dole Whip. Although this treat sold at the opposite end of the resort almost made me late for the 8:30 check-in, it was definitely worth it. To conclude our memorable first day, the seniors met, with ice cream in hand, for a private viewing of the Epcot fireworks display. After a fun but exhausting day, the seniors checked into Disney’s All-Star Music Resort and fell fast asleep. Thankfully, the morning of our second day did not begin quite as early as the first. Seniors and chaperones staggered their way to breakfast at the resort, where Mickey waffles and scrambled eggs were enjoyed. With full and happy stomachs, we once again boarded the buses and set off for a full day at Magic Kingdom, which

2024 Father Daughter Dance

by Maeve Going ’26

This February, SHA hosted a “Father-Daughter Dance” at Plattduetsche Park Restaurant, in Franklin Square. The evening consisted of food, dancing, raffles, and many masquerade masks. Everyone was dressed up, and with the extravagant decorations, this was definitely a visually impactful night to remember. Once the duos made the walk to the entrance, fathers and daughters were dazzled by the ambiance that enfolded them upon their arrival. The entrance hall was stunning, and the delicious smell of the food being prepared could already be sensed. As many fathers and daughters gathered in the hall, their pictures were taken by professional photographers. All of the workers were very patient and polite, and certainly made the event all the more delightful.

Once everyone was situated at their tables, delicious appetizers were served. The decorations of the main room were both unique and extravagant. The theme of the dance was Mardi Gras, which is a party, parade, and carnival celebrated in New Orleans the day before Ash Wednesday by those who wish to enjoy a night of fun before committing to sacrifices during Lent. This theme was executed to perfection. There were bright colors, neon lights, fun masquerade masks, and multi-colored beads. This theme really make celebrants feel as if they were on the streets of Louisiana. There were two floors to the party room, with the top floor hosting a balcony so all

could look over the event. Thankfully, the room was assembled to provide room enough to dance, eat, and feel comfortable.

After the appetizers, tables were called up to start dinner. The first-years were called at the start, followed by the sophomores, juniors, then seniors. The tasty dinner that consisted of chicken, pasta, steak, potatoes, green beans, salad, and dinner rolls offered great options for even the most discriminating taste buds. After dinner, a delectable vanilla cake was served. Dinner was excellent and was sufficiently organized for everyone to enjoy. To add to the festivities, during dinner, the professional photographers came to the tables. Photos printed on cardstock guaranteed to make the memories of the evening last.

in my opinion, is the “Disney-est” park in Disney. This is where you meet the classic Disney characters and enjoy the slower, movie-themed raft rides. If you visit Magic Kingdom, you are also guaranteed to see the Festival of Fantasy Parade at least 5 times, which a majority of the time will occur in between you and your destination. Although sometimes inconvenient, the cheery characters and colorful floats are bound to make your day. Speaking of your favorite Disney characters, I enjoyed lunch at the Crystal Palace with my friends from both SHA and Winnie-thePooh. Relieved to eat hearty food in air conditioning, we happily spent a couple of hours with Winnie, Piglet, Eeyore, and especially Tigger, the crowd favorite. As a big fan of roller coasters, Magic Kingdom had my favorite rides. Both Space Mountain and Big Thunder Mountain Railroad provided the perfect adrenaline rush and did not disappoint. And although It’s a Small World is one of the slower rides, I felt that getting stuck on this raft is a classic Disney bucket-list item. The title for my absolute favorite ride, however, is reserved for TRON Lightcycle Run. Unlike other attractions, this coaster is ridden on individual motorbikes, and I had the pleasure of experiencing this ride in the front row. Lastly, the seniors gathered on Main Street and were treated for yet another magnificent firework show displayed over the Magic Kingdom Castle. Finally, it was time for our third and last day. I am not going to lie, at this point I was sore, tired, and a little homesick, but I sure was glad for that

5:00 AM wake up call. On that extremely rainy morning, SHA was able to enter Animal Kingdom and ride Avatar Flight of Passage before the park even opened. This was by far the most impressive attraction at Disney, and after three consecutive rides I still could not get enough of it. Geared with ponchos, the seniors trekked through Pandora with wet shoes and excited faces to breakfast. I know I have thrown out a lot of favorites in this article, but this morning truly was my favorite part of the trip, with the rain somehow enhancing the Pandora experience. Unfortunately, this rain did delay the opening of most rides, but soon the sky cleared and we enjoyed a Safari ride as well as the famous Expedition Everest attraction. Around noon, we made our way to Hollywood Studios, the final park of our Disney trip. We strolled down Sunset Boulevard enjoying each other’s company, and we even braved the Tower of Terror. We also explored sections of the park dedicated to my all-time favorite Disney franchises, Toy Story and Star Wars. And just like that, our trip had sadly come to an end. We waved goodbye to the Disney parks, spent our last night in the All-Star Music Resort, and ate one more Mickey pancake for breakfast. Disney is quite a magical place, but it is no easy trip, so thank you to the chaperones and the SHA Community for making this memorable experience possible. Speaking on behalf of the Class of 2024, we could not ask for a better way to celebrate our time spent at SHA together.

2024 SHA Lenten Season

Once everyone was satisfied with dinner, the dancing started. This was when the Mardi Gras theme kicked into high gear. Hits from many decades that both fathers and daughters could appreciate were played, and this became a time for everyone to really bond. Dancing to hits from Billy Joel to Taylor Swift, everyone enjoyed the tunes as they danced along. Balloons were bouncing, the music was loud, and everyone was having a great time. The festivities ended with the raffle winners being announced. Though I did not win any baskets, I enjoyed waiting for the announcement of the winners that had everyone feeling the suspense. The most memorable one, in my opinion, was a basket filled with cooking and baking supplies. Overall, the evening was extraordinary and a great bonding event for fathers and daughters alike. Reflecting on the night, students will revel in the memories made by spending time with their friends and family, while enjoying a fun night of delicious food and dancing.

by Georgia Noumair ’27

During the 2024 Lenten season, God reminded us that it is time to refresh. Lent is about reflecting and slowing down. In 2024, Pope Francis’s message is themed “Through the desert, God leads us to freedom.” Pope Francis references the Good Samaritan parable in the gospel, which tells us to show love and care to those in need. Pope Francis also says, “It is time to act, and in Lent, to act also means to pause. To pause in prayer, in order to receive the word of God, to pause like the Samaritan in the presence of a wounded brother or sister.” This statement suggests that part of acting during this time involves pausing or taking a moment to reflect inwardly, particularly through prayer, to be receptive to the guidance and teachings of God. During Lent, it is not only about outwardly helping others but also about internal reflection and prayer necessary to overcome one’s internal conflicts. Lent is also a time to reconnect with God. During Lent, it is a time to focus on what truly matters like growing one’s relationship

with God and trusting in God’s plan. One way to embrace God’s teachings and guidance during Lent is to set a Lenten promise or goal for oneself. Setting a Lenten goal or promise can be beneficial for one’s inner self and for deepening one’s relationship with God. The Pope also advises everyone in the Christian community “to offer its members moments set aside to rethink their lifestyles, times to examine their presence in society and the contribution they make to its betterment.” This is meaningful because in 2024 many people are focused on self-image and how society views them. During Lent, it is important to reflect on one’s inner self and how one contributes to her or his community. Even if one is not Christian, it is important to self-reflect and always think about putting one’s best foot forward as we assist our neighbor. As Pope Francis said, we should pause, as did the Good Samaritan, and always help those in need no matter who they are.

Photo credits: Sacred Heart Yearbook

Arts & Leisure

A Real Legacy: The Tortured Poets Department

by Maeve Going ’26

Let me set the scene for you: It was the night of February 4th, and America’s eyes were glued to the 66th Annual Grammy Awards. Everyone wanted to see if Taylor Swift’s Midnights would win “Best Pop Vocal Album.” The winner was announced, and to no surprise, it was Swift. Leading up to this night, fans, or “Swifties”, as the fan base calls them, had anticipated the release of an album. The album they thought was coming was Reputation (Taylor’s Version), a re-recording of her 2017 Reputation album to which Swift needed the rights returned to her after a messy loss of control regarding her first six studio albums. . . however, the surprise that was in store exceeded fans’ wildest dreams.

As Swift ascended the stage to accept the award, she planned a surprise in her speech. Swift announced that a brand-new 11th studio album, The Tortured Poets Department, would soon be released. Fans were ecstatic. With this announcement, the cover of the album was soon made public, followed by a track list of its sixteen songs. Predictions ran wild for the lyrics, genre, and theme of the songs. Lyrics to various songs had been announced, with no other hints as to how the album would sound. Prior to the release date, April 19th, Swift did not release any single from the album, which only added to fans’ suspense.

Finally, it was time. Swifties all

across the globe stayed up late, carefully setting their alarms to the release-time of the album as determined by their local time zones. Once the songs were released, everyone was inextricably glued to music streaming apps and headphones.

Magically, as the streaming commenced, a bonus album was released. At 2 A.M. that morning, Swift announced a “2am surprise: The Tortured Poet’s Department Double Album.” This edition of the album included fifteen additional songs, making the full album over two hours in length- a Swiftie’s dream come true! Initially, I was excited, but also overwhelmed, unsure of how I was ever going to learn these songs by heart, as I had every previous song by Taylor. This surprise release was not new for Swift. When Midnights was released in 2022, a 3am Edition was revealed, which included seven songs which were not originally on the track list. Listening to Swift’s most recent album for hours on end, and I can confidently say that all thirty-one songs are meant for this album and represent all the emotion and feeling that Swift so expertly messages to her fans.

The first song on the album, “Fortnight”, is an emotional song Swift sings with rapper, Post Malone. Fans, myself included, were initially shocked to see Post Malone listed as a feature performer, but, upon listening closely to the track, I realize that the collaboration is, in

fact, perfect. Post’s deep voice contrasts with Swift’s softer vocals, and adds a depth to the song that invites listener to hear both the female and male perspectives via the lyrics. The chorus, “I love you, it’s ruining my life,” is a lyric that encompasses the song in its entirety as well as the melodrama of the album. This song is, to date, the first and only song from the album to have a music video accompanying it. In this poignant video, Swift and Post are featured as two poets working together, recalling their past memories. After listening to the album countless times, I am finally able to pick my favorite and, in my opinion, best-written songs. My personal favorite, “imgonnagetyouback”, is a pop song that deals with the indecisiveness in a relationship. The chorus line, “Whether I’m gonna be your wife, or gonna smash up your bike, I haven’t decided yet, but I’m gonna get you back,” features Swift’s ability to make rhymes out of even the most unlikely words. Along with the chorus, the bridge spotlights Swift’s vocals, which are often not given due notice amid her complex lyrics and diction choices. The beat of this song is one that will inspire you to dance like nobody’s watching, and even if you aren’t a Swiftie, I would definitely give this song a listen. The next best song on The Tortured Poet’s Department ia a tough call. Of the hardest decisions I have had to make, this one takes the cake. Here it is: “Who’s Afraid of Little Old

Me” is my final decision. This is a track that gives vision to Swift’s life. The song tells the story of how the world has made Swift seem rough, and that the media should be afraid of her power. A great line is, “Don’t you worry folks, we took out all her teeth,” where Swift seems to be comparing herself to a circus animal that needs to be contained due to her own power. Another excellent line is, “Put narcotics into all of my songs, and that’s why you’re all still singing along.” This lyric is a testament to the public’s doubt of Swift’s abilities and talent, reducing her to someone who merely wants to control her fan base. Though this track is amazing, there are many contenders. One of these is “Clara Bow”, where Swift reflects on female artists like Clara Bow and Stevie Nicks who have come before her and on the ones who will come after her. Another impressive offering is “But Daddy I Love Him”, which has Swift imagining the main character as a rebellious woman going against what her family says in the name of love.

As if Swift could become any higher in the music industry, this album proves her ability to keep climbing to the top of the charts. In the album’s debut week, the top fourteen songs on the Billboard Hot 100 were from The Tortured Poet’s Department. Also, out of the top fifty-five songs on this list, all thirty-one songs from the album are listed. That’s a real legacy.

TikTok vs. UMG: Social Media’s Music Battle

by Isabella Fernandim ’26

Can you imagine the world’s most famous music platform app completely devoid of music? Every month, 1.7 billion active TikTok users have the luxury of enjoying their favorite songs while scrolling through the app, which contains a music catalog of over 4 million songs. As the world’s fourth-largest social media platform, TikTok caters to users all over the globe, ensuring that a diversified catalog of music will reach broader audiences and address diverse tastes. This personalization of content makes the app userfriendly, with personalized music tastes truly making each video “For You.” Each day, 34 million videos are posted on TikTok. Whether it’s lipsyncing videos, viral dances, makeup tutorials, or memes, they all have one thing in common: music. The constant feed of these videos accompanied by music has been the app’s primary function since it was first launched as Musical.ly in 2014. Sadly, on February 1st, Universal Music Group, the world’s leading music company, began removing all

songs licensed under their label from TikTok’s viral platform.

TikTok and UMG previously had a contract, allowing TikTok users to use music from UMG’s catalog in their videos; however, this contract expired on January 31st due to TikTok’s failure to provide appropriate compensation for artists and songwriters, to protect artists from the harmful effects of AI, and to ensure online safety for the platform’s users. Thus, the following day, thousands of videos on the platform with UMGsigned music were muted to comply with copyright laws and licensing agreements in response to the ban. As a result, users found that their favorite videos, including those they had previously saved and liked, were suddenly silent or that their music was replaced with alternative tracks. Considering the fact that Universal Music Group (UMG) represents a significant number of the global music industry’s major artists, musicians such as Taylor Swift, Beyoncé, Drake, and Billie Eilish saw their music withdrawn from the app. Since the fan bases of these artists make up the majority of the music streams

on TikTok, removing users’ favorite artists led to widespread disappointment, therefore causing a decline in streams on TikTok and other music platforms. Over time, it has become evident how TikTok exposes artists to countless new listeners, as even a 15-second clip of background music on a TikTok can propel a song to go viral. Many tracks have gained fame on TikTok, inevitably leading to an exponential surge in streams, emphasizing the platform’s influence on music discovery and chart performance. This removal poses challenges for smaller artists under UMG, as they may struggle to use their songs for promotional purposes to reach broader audiences. Consequently, this issue could lead to decreased streams and revenue for these artists.

Although there has been no news of the ban being lifted, TikTok users are persistently attempting to bypass copyright filters to enable them to post videos featuring their favorite songs. To evade detection, users use tactics such as adding effects to the video’s audio, most commonly by adjusting the pitch of

songs. Likewise, users are combining UMG songs with similar audio tracks to create modified versions of songs that closely resembles the originals, but altered enough to avoid copyright infringement. Some users have taken matters into their own hands, resorting to more innovative approaches like posting their own covers of songs, reflecting their determination to incorporate their preferred music into their videos despite UMG’s ban.

TikTok’s impact transcends short-form entertainment, extending its influence into the depths of the music industry. As the focus of modern social media culture, TikTok’s extensive music library and global user base have solidified its position as a main source for entertainment and music discovery worldwide. Without a doubt, the video experience is incomplete without the sounds of our favorite musicians, leaving TikTok with the ultimatum of properly compensating artists or providing users with a quality platform with music they can enjoy.

Cordette June 2024 Arts & Leisure

Ariana Grande: Eternal Sunshine

by Katherine Cielusniak ’26

Three years after her latest album, pop vocalist Ariana Grande returned to the music industry on March 8, 2024, with a brand new album, Eternal Sunshine. Grande has taken a break from music for mental health purposes as well as filming for the film version of the Broadway classic, Wicked, in which she plays Glinda the Good Witch. As a result of the SAG-AFTRA actors’ strike, she was able to take a break and produce her own album. The album title, Eternal Sunshine takes inspiration from the Michel Gondry film, Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind, a romance movie in which the characters can erase unwanted memories. Grande refers back to this theme in her lyrics and expresses the idea that she wants to let go and forget about her past. The pop album conveys the central idea that she felt as if she wasn’t in the right relationship, and she takes the listeners through the roller coasters of her emotions throughout the album. My personal favorite is “we can’t be friends (wait for your love)” which reflects on the feeling of being misunderstood in her relationship and feeling uncertain in that place. This album contains soft ballads such as

track seven, “true story” and track 12 “Imperfect for you.” On the other hand, there are upbeat R&B hits such as “Bye” and “The boy is mine” which has a 90s pop theme, similar to “Fantasize,” an unreleased song that was leaked and grew popular on Tiktok. The pop artist shared that her seventh album was formed around September 2023, and she started teasing a new album on November 27, 2023, via Instagram. It is implied that the album is influenced by her divorce from real estate agent, Dalton Gomez, whom she married in 2021. To display that idea, the vocalist uses lines such as “How do I know if I am in the right relationship, aren’t you supposed to know that’’ in the song “Intro (end of the world) which is the opening song. Since Eternal Sunshine has somewhat of a storyline, the album has a catchy song titled “Bye” which is an upbeat track that is a goodbye to her relationship and the start of a new chapter in her life. Overall, I definitely recommend giving this album a listen as Ariana Grande did not disappoint, and I rate it a solid 8/10.

Mean Girls: The Movie

by Isabella Porrini ‘26

Mean Girls has and always will be an iconic film. Over the course of years, the carefully curated movie has remained one of the early-2000s movies that is still popular. Twenty years later, the movie has been remade, but with a twist: it’s based off of the musical.

While the plot of the movie has remained the same, there are some stark differences in the way that the movie plays out. One of the main differences is the usage of music. The musical version of Mean Girls uses songs and music in order to portray the scenes in the play. The original 2004 movie did not involve characters singing to convey their thoughts. While this may not be someone’s cup of tea, many people do enjoy the music numbers throughout the movie.

Other differences are a less tolerable. The new Mean Girls alters much of the wording from the previous movie in an effort to make offenses made in the movie less harsh. However, by changing the scripts, Regina George is not portrayed as a truly wicked girl. In the 2004 edition of the movie, Regina is manipulative, conniving, and straight up just mean, hence the name of the movie. She snaps at Gretchen,

sabotages Cady, and much more. When she behaves to the contrary in this version of the movie and her personality is toned down, the film does not truly capture the essence of the character.

The 2024 edition clearly had aspirations to integrate modern aspects into the movie as evident in the appearance of modern social media influencers. Although it is clear that the directors sought to take a more modern approach to the movie, as it is a new time, the attempt fails. Instead of making the film more “relatable”, the movie comes across as tacky, almost like an advertisement for TikTok.

All in all, the new Mean Girls simply does not live up to the expectations that many viewers had for it. It was conspicuously worse in production and seemed as though minimal effort was made. The actors seemed to have little to no chemistry and did not really engage the audience as a good movie should. Furthermore, the actors seemed disinterested, conveying their lines in an impassive manner for the most part. As a result, Mean Girls attempts to recreate an iconic early 2000s movie, but simply misses the mark.

Film Review: Emma Reiter Picks the Best Movies of 2023 (Part 2)

by Emma Reiter ‘24

3. Are You There God? It’s Me, Margaret. (directed by Kelly Fremon Craig)

I read the middle grade novel of the same title by Judy Blume that this movie was based on in 5th grade, and at the time, it was perfectly relatable and in a way prepared me for the changes that were to come as I started middle school. Now on the other side of middle school and having lived through the stages of puberty that Margaret experiences in the novel, I found myself nostalgically laughing along with this wholesome, heartfelt movie who’s themes of growing up, the impacts of moving to a new neighborhood, religious questioning and doubt, the cost of conformity, and finding yourself still feel just as fresh in spite of it being set in the mid-1970s. The female relationships in this movie truly shine through- between Margaret and her mother, Margaret and her grandmother, and Margaret and her new friend group. Overall, this faithful adaptation was such a feel-good time that stayed true to its original source material by not shying away from normalizing the more “embarrassing” parts of growing up while highlighting the personal growth

that occurs during this period of life.

2. The Holdovers (directed by Alexander Payne)

I could tell from the trailer to this movie with its nostalgically grainy film chock full of 70s haircuts and humor that I was going to have a good time, but I think I underestimated just how much I ended up loving it. The Holdovers tells the story of the unlikely bond that forms between troubled junior Angus Tully and socially inept Professor Paul Hunham after Hunham is left to watch Angus over the Christmas break at his all-boys prep school. Through its balance of charm, humor, heartwarming moments, and deliberate character growth and analysis set against the backdrop of a snowy New England holiday season has solidified this movie as an instant Christmas classic. There is an abundance of heart, compassion, and love woven throughout the plot, and I walked away from it with such a feeling of warmth and bittersweet joy that I cannot wait to rewatch this come December of next year.

1. A Haunting in Venice (directed by Kenneth Branagh)

The second I walked out of the

movie theater after viewing this twisting mystery, I said verbatim, “This is probably my favorite movie I’ve seen this year.” And I wholeheartedly stand by my original statement. The mystery genre as a whole has always been a favorite of mine, but I especially enjoy Agatha Christie’s collection of work, so you can imagine my excitement when I realized that there was to be another Kenneth Branagh adaptation of a Hercule Poirot novel set to come out this year (followed by Murder on the Orient Express in 2017 and Death on the Nile in 2022). As the title suggests, this follows Detective Poirot in Venice on Halloween night as he becomes entangled in the messy mystery of the recently deceased daughter of a grief-stricken mother who, desperate to communicate with her child, hires a seance for the night. Things take a deadly turn, and suddenly Poirot is begrudgingly placed in the role he knows all too well- that of the detective uncovering the hidden secrets and multilayered stories of those surrounding him in order to get to the crux of the case. I was thoroughly entertained and shocked by the twists and turns this movie took, and I was constantly making my own predictions only to

be proven wrong by the sharply clever writing. The cinematography and score once again proved to shape this movie even further- you truly felt the eeriness of the secluded Venetian palace as the camera lingered on dark corners. What I really love about these Branagh films, though, is that they all do a phenomenal job of fleshing out each character and not sacrificing them to the plot, and that was especially apparent in this film. I was incredibly impressed with all aspects of this movie and I highly recommend this for anyone who is in the mood for an emotional rollercoaster of a mystery.

All in all, I had amazing movie-going experiences this year. Some honorable mentions to my favorite 2023 releases include Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse and No Hard Feelings. I also had the opportunity to see Love Actually in theaters for its 20th anniversary, which was a welcome surprise. Needless to say, there are still a decent amount of 2023 released movies that I still need to catch up on- including Poor Things and Killers of the Flower Moon- but I am very excited to see what 2024 has in store for the future of Hollywood.

Advice to the Graduating Class of 2024

by Mia Sclafani ’24

Considering the fact that the class of 2024 is graduating, I thought it would be valuable to share some wise advice with the senior class. After coming up with some advice of my own, I decided to interview a few teachers at SHA and asked each for one piece of college or life advice that he or she would give to the class of 2024, sending them off into their future. My personal biggest piece of advice for the senior class, as well as for anyone reading this, is to look for the difficult in your life and to choose it. I know that may sound counter intuitive, but I will explain my rationale.

There is a quote from one of my favorite shows that says, “Everything changes, depending on the things and the people you love. And even when some things seem difficult or dangerous, there are instances where that doesn’t matter at all.”

There is another quote following this where a character is facing some difficult choices. She simply says, “I’m not looking for easy.” We all come to experience times when we are having difficulties or problems in our lives. We sometimes may feel that we do not know what we are doing and that we are completely lost. Sometimes we might feel like something is too hard to get past or too challenging to accomplish. It is so easy to lose confidence in what you are doing. It is so easy to give up on yourself. It is so easy to choose the easy way.

It is too hard to take the difficult path. It is too hard for us sometimes because we are afraid, fearful of making those hard decisions. We are afraid that if we choose that path it will be too much for us to handle and we will drown in the negative consequences but it is precisely in those situations where we must realize that perhaps those consequences could be positive. Maybe, by taking the pathway that we fear, we can change our lives for the better. That door - that door to the unknownmay seem locked to us. Humans are naturally afraid of what is unknown to them. The apprehension of not knowing what will happen next keeps us from wandering into uncharted territory, but we have to unlock that door and boldly pass through it. We have to be brave enough to say, “I want to know more.” It is a little like how you went into your basement was when you were a kid. It was kind of scary and so dark that it was

hard to find the light switch, but you knew you had to retrieve something. Lesson learned: we have to first step into the darkness so we may find the light.

It is that mindset that we need to have in order to discover new things. Yes, the difficult decisions will be rough to navigate but in the end, those hardships can lead us to something good. We want to feel accomplished as people. Choosing that easy way will not provide us with that satisfaction. Imagine if everything in life were easy; our relationships, our responsibilities, everything we do in school, getting up in the morning. If you think about it, if everything were always easy, life would be plain and boring. You would fly through school, get a perfect job, a perfect family, and a perfect life, but none of it would be worth anything because you did not work for it. The best things come from hard work.

I was told many times when I first started attending Sacred Heart that “the more you put into it, the more you get out of it.” I have found this lesson to be extremely true. If you sit back in school and allow yourself to take the easy way out, you are not going to see the best outcome. You should not be satisfied with not-so-great, or mediocre grades; that is not what you should want. You should always want to go above and beyond - that is what you will be able to be proud of later. Do not settle for an 85; push for a 100, and even if you do not get that 100, you will know that you tried and that you worked hard. Shoot for the highest hoops. Whoever said that “money buys happiness” was definitely wrong. Hard work buys happiness. Hard work rewards you with not only money, but also with a life that you can be proud of. You have to work hard at school, at work, for the friendships, and for the relationships you want to keep. That is where your happiness will come from. If you cheat your way through everything, how can you ever be happy in the end? All of those Disney movies that have a happy ending usually also have a story filled with difficulties and trials, and even tragedies, that the characters must face. So, do not choose easy. Choose hard. And start choosing those challenges early in your life so that you do not suffer regrets later. If something seems challenging, go for it because it is when you push yourself the hardest

that you get the best results. Do not look for easy. Look for the hard.

Advice from SHA Teachers

“Make friends in college and be a part of activities so that you don’t feel alone. It really makes a difference.” -Mrs. Ana Villalobos

“Wake up earlier than you think you need to.” -Mr. Carlo Puca

“In order to have a successful Freshwoman year in college, one needs to have BALANCE...Balance between TIME STUDYING and TIME SOCIALIZING with friends. Balance between SCHOOL WORK ON COMPUTERS and SOCIAL MEDIA. Balance between having MULTIPLE EVENTS and TASKS in a single day.” -Mr. Louis Ohle

“Take advantage of your professor’s office hours and don’t be afraid to reach out to them.”

-Ms. Nicole DeVito

“As much as you want to be successful, earn money, and make a name for yourself, try not to forget that happiness can’t be bought and the relationships you have with the people you love, the time spent with friends and family is more valuable than anything that can be purchased. Strive for happiness not in things acquired but time spent with those you love.” -Mrs. Allison Haun

“Get involved in different college organizations and activities.” -Mr. Raymond Abbatiello

“Welcome change: Life is abundant with unforeseen shifts and surprises. Embrace change as a chance for personal growth rather than something to fear.” -Ms. Kristin Mariano

“Give yourself permission to make mistakes!! You will not always be perfect, but as long as you are learning every day, you are bound for success.” -Mrs. Jill Fincher

“My advice to the graduating class would be, don’t feel like you need to have everything figured out. You’re still young and growing. Your aspirations and goals can change dramatically within the next four years. Notice the moments you lose track of time and feel completely absorbed in the present. Follow those passions and you can’t go wrong!” -Mr. Jeff Toto

“My biggest advice to the Class of 2024 is to always keep faith and trust in God...especially when things look their darkest because after every storm the sun shines. Also... remember to shine the SHA light of compassion, dignity and inclusive love on everyone you meet.”

-Mr. Joseph Cascio

“Do what makes you happy. Trial and error is OK; that’s how you learn.”

-Mrs. Caroline Walsh

“Keep an open mind, and know that life will be a series of unpredictable twists and turns. Just trust that you will always end up right where you need to be!” -Ms. Terry Shirreffs

“Whatever you decide to do in college and beyond, make sure you love it, because then it’s not a job.”

-Mrs. Elena Gentile

“Make goals for yourself always and keep moving forward. There will be many hardships, setbacks, challenges, obstacles, disappointments, successes, celebrations, surprises and joys you will endure. Whatever you are facing, it’s important to keep moving forward. Learn from each and every experience. Work towards realistic goals. Grow and become a better person each day no matter what you have been through, no matter what you are going through, and no matter what will be ahead of you. There will be days where just showing up will be your success for the day and there will be days where you accomplish more than what you thought you ever would. Whatever it is that you go through, remember to make goals for yourself always and keep moving forward.” -Ms. Samantha Toohey

“My advice to the Class of 2024 is: Always be kind and try your best but don’t hesitate to ask for help if you need it.” -Ms. Rachel Graziol

“Realize that it’s okay to be uncertain about your future. Try new classes and learn new things and find out what interests you in college. Then go from there to figure out your career. Also, do what makes you happy.” -Mrs. Dawn Breen

Cordette June 2024

SHA Varsity Basketball:  We Are the Champions!

by Mary Kate Macchiarola ’25

The Sacred Heart basketball team blew all of their fans away with their impressive season taking them all the way to the State Finals. The Lady Spartans had a remarkable overall record of 17-10 and a Catholic League record of 14-5. The regular season saw numerous successes achieved by the team, but one specific game that stood out, among many, was the Play4Mary game against Kellenberg. The Spartans not only secured the win, but raised awareness for a very worthy cause.

SHA went into the playoffs being ranked third in the league, steamrolling over the Kellenberg Firebirds with a final score of 62-29 which advanced them to the semifinals against St. Anthony’s. The Friars were ranked second before the Spartans knocked them out! In this game, senior Annie Kiernan made headlines scoring her

1,000 th career point and helped bring her team to the Championship game at Farmingdale College against

National Women & Girls In Sports

by Gabby Brochhagen ’26

National Women and Girls in Sports Day this year was celebrated on February 7, 2024 and commemorates the importance of women’s participation in sports. NWGSD was first celebrated by our nation’s capital in 1987 to showcase organizations and women athletes. It originally served as a remembrance of the Olympic volleyball player Flo Hyman. Hyman had a countless number of athletic achievements as well as being extremely dedicated to promoting equality for female sports. Hyman sadly passed away in 1986 of Marfan’s Syndrome. NWGSD promotes the confidence and character gained through girls and women being involved in sports and the important impact it has. This special day is celebrated by local sports teams as well as large professional sports organizations: “We’re proud of the role our PGA of America Golf Professionals play in welcoming girls and women from all backgrounds and abilities to this transformational game of golf,” says PGA of America Chief People Officer Sandy Cross.

Cross added: “”The ongoing progress and countless opportunities to drive generational change across the sport, and the business that surrounds it are truly exciting and inspiring.” Female athletes are able to spread their messages to show young girls all over the nation the importance of participating in athletics. Statistics show, in 1972, just over 300,000 women and girls played college and high school sports in the United States. During this time, female athletes received 2% of college athletic budgets and athletic scholarships for women were not accessible. There was extreme gender inequality and women athletes experienced this first-hand. By the promotion of women in sports this statistic has been changed for the better. By 2012 six times as many women were participating in intercollegiate sports than in 1972. Over three million girls now participate in high school sports. NWGSD was one of the many steps taken to fight for equality and showcase the importance of women participating in athletics.

St. Mary’s. Before this game, St. Mary’s was on a four-year winning streak in the championship but the

Spartans put that to a halt. The Lady Spartans had won the game earning them the title of CHSAA League Class AA champions.

The Spartans headed off to the State semifinals game against Fontbonne at Cardinal Spellman High School. Sacred Heart dominated the game sending them to the State Championship. The Spartans had a very productive season with many accomplishments. Two specific players to highlight are Annie Kiernan (Senior) and Haylee Ellwood (Senior) who were both named among Newsday’s top 100 high school players.

Congratulations to the girls Varsity Basketball team on myriad victorious and extraordinary performances throughout the season. Good luck to the team next year. We are excited to see what you will achieve next!

The Importance of a Healthy Diet

by Emily Valeant ’26

A healthy lifestyle does not always come from getting enough sleep or doing the proper cardio workout. While getting enough sleep and the best workout can contribute to a healthy lifestyle, a well-balanced diet can help you maintain good health and make you feel your best. A well-balanced diet provides all the nutrients and energy one needs to stay active throughout the day. Eating various foods can help with growth and repair, with staying strong and healthy, with preventing many diseases, and with helping to enhance self-esteem and a positive body image. People who do not have a healthy diet and lifestyle may suffer from obesity, heart disease, and other health issues. The main question is how to maintain a nutritious diet. The answer is actually quite simple. One needs to eat various foods, drink lots of water, consume fruits and vegetables, and especially, enjoy one’s meals. Eating is about pleasure, and it is not good to force yourself to eat a particular food item.

Many diet plans can help with weight loss, muscle growth, and even just staying in shape, but consistency is important. A diet is like a relationship; it’s not working out if you need to cheat.

Exercise is another crucial factor in keeping a healthy diet. Diet and exercise put you into a better mood and give you more motivation to do day-to-day tasks. Without a balanced diet, you will not be able to maintain proper mental or physical health. Food provides the energy needed to work out, and exercise burns energy or, as many call it, calories. To stay in the best shape, however, you cannot eat a healthy diet or work out; you need to do both. Let’s say one goes to the gym and HITT cardio for one hour. The moment you take a bite of a strawberry donut, all of that training is rendered worthless, so a combination of eating well and exercising daily is crucial. Healthy eating is not just about getting the right workout or eating the right foods; it is all about living a healthy lifestyle.

Class of 2024!

Photo credit: Sacred Heart Instagram