Elmont Memorial High School - Sewanhaka Central High School

ELMONT
PHOENIX
Elmont Memorial High School
This publication is now available online! Google Elmont Phoenix Newspaper or visit the Sewanhaka Central High School District website.
E.M.H.S
Volume 2
Jan, 2012
First Day [of a New Year, a New Marking Period and a New Career]
by Reena Khan
It is a new year, a time to look forward to many firsts: the first day of a new marking period, the first day of the winter
break and the first day of the rest of our lives. To commemorate these monumental firsts, we highlight a recent accomplishment by a few of Elmont’s promising talents.
“First Day,” a video directed, edited and produced by Oswald Wallace III (with the assistance of another senior, Ms.
Goldie Harrison), has become somewhat of an anthem on the Elmont campus. In it, students, who were granted permission,
were able to show their Spartan spirit and pride.
The video’s musical group, featuring Oswald, Torrel Porter, Lyadell Sutherland, Jeffery Brenya, Daniel Alexis, Chris
Henry and Bria Fisher, showed their lyrical talent by writing a clean hip hop song that is catchy and fun. Each of these students’ contributions to the video added to its success and the skillful editing of its director leaves its audience clapping well
after the beat has ended.
Oswald Wallace (a.k.a Ozzyoz Da Vyrus), the creator of this remarkable film, surpassed many hardships to get to
where he is today: a talented student at Elmont Memorial with big dreams and a passion for the technical arts. Well-known
as a cartoonist while he was in the 7th and 8th grade, he transitioned into making videos when he was inspired by a movie
about the creative process.
He was about fifteen years old when he realized he really loved making videos. He purchased a karaoke microphone
for ten dollars and that was where it all began. After many months, he grew incredibly knowledgable about this career field
and decided to pursue it in the future.
When I spoke with Oswald regarding his plans, he said that many projects in the works: music videos, animation and
he is even thinking about making a video about the last day of school, which is sure to be a hit, just like everything else he
has created.
Oswald’s journey is a story of hard work: the “First Day” video took two whole weeks to film and two hours a day to
edit for three days, which only proves his dedication. In the video, Elmont’s cheerleaders, dance team and band are shown
excelling in their own passions. By including all of these amazing clubs, we are reminded of all that makes Elmont so unique.
From the advisors to the faculty, from the students to the parents, we have a supportive atmosphere that cares about students
expressing their creativity.
Most students do not know much about the video-making process, therefore, it is astonishing to find out all that is
required in making a successful, professional music video. When I asked him which is easier for him, rap videos or digital
animation, he replied with enthusiasm, “Both are hard and both take time. The rap videos are definitely easier. The digital
animations take a bit more work but I love doing both.”
Considering the long process to learn all the camera techniques needed, I asked, “What advice would you give someone who wants to follow a similar career path?” To this, he advised, “Don’t stop doing what you love. Keep doing it and keep
reaching for your goals.”
“Is balancing school and your passion difficult?” I asked. His eyes lit up at this question. Like many students, including myself, there is a great obstacle in balancing what you love and schoolwork. He said, “Yes, very! There are some times
when grades would be low and films would be great or vice versa.” Ultimately, Oswald agrees that, while your passion is
extremely important, your grades in junior and senior high school help you to accomplish those goals.
Some of the video’s stars commented on its success, as well. Lyadell, whom I caught up with in the cafeteria, said,
“It’s all thanks to Ozzy that the video was possible.” Torrel said, “I like it when we all work together as a family,” a lesson that
teaches us that our Elmont friends can be as close as family and shows us that it is very important to stick together because
you can definitely make some magic.
The students of Elmont can be proud of this video. With almost 7,500 hits and counting, the video grows more popular every day . Mr. Capozzi says, “Oswald’s video is outstanding! He produced something that demonstrated school spirit and
a positive image. Ozzy has taught me everything I know about art and the importance of allowing students to express their
artistic ability.”
With that said, Oswald shows us that it takes hard work to get to where you want to be in life, no matter where that
may be, wether it be in the music and video field or something else entirely. If you really love something, you will work
diligently and better yourself along the way.
“A nationally
recognized school
of EXCELLENCE!”
Above: Images from the “First Day” video.
ELMONT
PRIDE
C.S. is for Common Sense: Elmont’s Own Becomes
Nassau County Legislator
by Amna Kamil
Carrie Solages, the new Nassau
County Lesislator
History was made on November 8, 2011 when Carrie Solages, a graduate from our very
own Sewanhaka Central High School District, became Nassau County’s first Haitian American County Legislator. This was a major change for Nassau considering Solages’ opponent,
John Ciotti, was our legislator since 1995. This election was also a transition of power from
Republicans to Democrats.
The son of a Vietnam War veteran, Carrie Solages, a first generation American, is very
involved in our community and some of us at Elmont may remember him from Homecoming. Solages grew up in Elmont and believes that the tax burden in our community should not
be shifted to schools. He was also against the many policies of Ciotti which included increasing taxes by more than $60 million. Ciotti also voted for himself to have a pay raise while
our community was suffering economically. As our County Legislator, Carrie hopes to stop
the giant amount of money in bills given to schools which lead to teacher layoffs and cuts
in classroom spending. Fixing these issues was a major part of Solages’ “Common Sense”
reform. In his campaign, he said that Carrie Solages is for “Common Sense.”
Solages encourages students to do their best in school and to be involved in their community. Mr. Solages participates in many school events in our district and recently attended
a food drive. He believes that his accomplishments in school led him to be the successful
person he is today. Carrie graduated from high school at the top of his class with academic
honors. After graduating high school, he went on to Georgetown University and then attended Boston College Law School. Carrie Solages focused on African American Studies,
Civil Rights Law, Constitutional Law, and First Amendment Law.
Living in Elmont his whole life, he wanted to make a change for the better in our
community and now he can as our County Legislator. We congratulate you, Mr. Solages!
Senator Charles Schumer with Elmont
MUNer, sophomore Darnell Marescot,
at Solages’ induction on January 2nd
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Elmont Phoenix
JANUARY 2012
New Year, New Possibilities
Principal’s
Corner
by Reena Khan
2011 is over and the new year is beginning! With an amazing pep rally to usher in the winter sports and to honor
our Elmont Sports teams, we welcomed 2012 with open arms. There is so much possibility for this year and so much to
plan for. Whether this is the year that you are going to be going off to college, learning how to drive, attempting to reach
High Honor Roll for the 3rd marking period or trying to make some new friends, just make sure to get a fresh start and
make some changes to benefit you.
The new semester begins Monday, January 30, 2012. For many of us, we will be beginning new courses, there- Dear Students,
What an exciting opening
fore, teachers will be getting to know us for the first time. Begin this second half of the school year on a more positive
we
had
to the 2011-2012 school
note than the first day of school. Make a great impression.
year.
It
seemed that something
There is so much going on and all of us eventually become stressed out one way or another. It could be home- new and exciting was taking place
work or your social life, but there are ways to get around stress and you have to work to balance things out. Maybe you at Elmont Memorial every week.
have too much on your plate and you feel overwhelmed. Manage your time so that your parents do not resort to taking September was especially busy
you out of an extracurricular activity. However, it is important not to overextend yourself with so many activities that with the Activities Fair, Senior
you are incapable of doing your homework, which should still be your top priority. If you are not doing enough with Barbeque and Red Ribbon Week.
We overcame the wintry weather
your time, join a sport or club. The point is this: do something this year that will help you become a better student and a on Homecoming and showed just
better person.
how great Elmont Memorial
Try to remember all the commitments that you have to your classes and clubs. Make sure to remember your is. School spirit has never been
higher.
initial inspiration to strive to be the best you can be.
-Get organized and stay focused
The faculty at Elmont
Memorial has gotten off to
-Make a New Year’s resolution to better yourself
a great start, preparing our
-Make a list of personal goals to help you work towards your educational goals and career path
students for the important
-Make a schedule to help plan your day
New York State Regents and
-Remember these words: “Someone who has planned for tomorrow, has already planned for today.”
Assessments. Record numbers of
You may want to make (and keep!) a promise to help someone else along the way. A friend needs to talk? Be students attended extra help and
a good listener for him. Does someone need a hug or some cheering up? Be there for her. You never know. You might review classes. I am confident
that you will continue to achieve
make some new friends by listening and just being yourself.
the high level of academic success
Challenge yourself. Do not look down at a bump in the road. Look at your hardships as opportunities for im- that Elmont Memorial is known
provement. You can only learn from your experiences.
for.
Half-year classes have ended! Be sure to let those teachers know how much you appreciated your experiences in I would like to wish everyone
their classes. Your last impression on this teacher should be even better than the first.
a happy and healthy New Year.
Now that the 2nd marking period is behind us, regardless of how your report card (which will be mailed home
soon) praises your efforts or identifies the areas that you need to improve, you have a brand new beginning this week!
Sincerely,
Winter sports are starting also. Try something new. You never know if you will end up liking it. So get your physicals done and try out for a sport. Do not worry about being the best (at least night right away). Just be yourself and
that should take you far, regardless of your initial skill level.
John Capozzi
Winter pep rally was amazing! All the teams marched through the gymnasium proud to be a part of something Principal
special and we made it function like a big family. The cheerleaders, flag and dance teams were incredible! The gymnasts
and basketball players brought on much-deserved applause. The music was played skillfully and each team represented
their sport with pride. Congratulations coaches and advisors on a great display of Spartan Spirit!
And now, as we march on towards June, remember to sharpen your pencils and stock up on loose leaf! The
school year is not over yet. Good luck on the remaining days in this school year!
Elmont Phoenix
ELMONT MEMORIAL HIGH SCHOOL
ASK A SENIOR
Principal:
Assistant Principal:
Assistant Principal:
Assistant Principal:
What is your New Year’s resolution?
I would say my New Year’s resolution is to manage my life and time better. This way, I can get rid of unnecessary
stress and be able to enjoy myself more.
~Meagan H.
My resolution is to be happy, ignore bad influences around me and, of course, be successful!
~ Soraya P.
My New Year’s resolution for 2012 is to make sure I have a fun, memorable year [considering] that it is my last year of
high school.
~Rebecca F.
What is your favorite type of music?
My favorite type of music is R&B because of the soul artists have in their music when it is sung. The artist presents
the listener with a story through a combination of poetry and a smooth, rhythmic style that makes the music very
enjoyable. R&B is a genre of music that has a class of its own that will stay prominent for years to come. ~ Chris J.
Mr. John Capozzi
Mr. Brian Burke
Ms. Alicia Calabrese
Dr. Edward Thomas
Elmont Phoenix Staff
Faculty Advisor:
Ms. Maria Harley
Editors:
Mel Palaca, Crystal Nwaogbe, Sabrina Darko, Beatrice Hyppolite,
Augusta Uwamanzu-Nna,
Saudia Baksh
Art Layout and Design: Oswald Wallace III
Reena Khan
Reporting Staff
Reena Khan, Amna Kamil, Elijah Ross, Justin Okoro,
Jemell Campbell, Augusta Uwamanzu-Nna, Alanis
Smith, Cheyenne Carney, Terrene Taylor, Renee King,
Chinyere Onwuchekwa, Saarah Ahsan, Leanna Faulk,
Mel Palaca, Jasmine Williams, Elijah Ross, Ashleigh
Brown, Vanessa Thompson, Stacy Chukwuma
To be completely honest, I love all genres of music. ranging from jazz to heavy metal. I really did not plan on loving
all types of music, it just happened, and it opens my mind up to a more diverse world.
~ Vanessa T.
How do you stop yourself from stalling when you do not want to
do your homework?
Procrastination is not your friend. If you are one to do so, stop now and change your habits. I stall when it comes
time for homework which is not a good thing because I am either up late that night trying to complete the assignment or up early the next morning. If I do not finish on time I receive an incomplete, which is not acceptable. School
is important, and your grades are what you have to show for it. It is basically the credentials that you can brag about
on your college application.
~Teresa L.
In my opinion, the best way to do this is to separate yourself from the most of the world. First find a nice quiet place,
like your room, close the door and shut yourself out from everything else. Turn off your cell phone for awhile to help.
[For some people, turning ] on some music, whether you use earphones or speakers, it does not matter, and get to
work. I find that listening to some sweet background music helps me focus on the assignment at hand. This strategy
is one that I use all the time, and though it works for me, it may not work for everyone so do not be afraid to try other
things. ~Jahfari C.
ATTENTION STUDENTS:
Do you have an idea for an article?
A question for the “Ask a Senior”
column? A response to an article? The
Elmont Phoenix staff wants to hear from
you. Send your e-mails to mharley@
sewanhaka.k12.ny.us. Be sure to include
your name, grade and English teacher.
JANUARY 2012
CLUBS AND EVENTS
ELMONT
PHOENIX
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Inside THE OUTSIDERS: From the Page to the Stage
“Let’s Do It For Johnny!”: An Audience Member Admires
Science Research
by Augusta Uwamanzu-Nna
The school year progresses and the award-winning and notable Science
Research program has been a success. As all students return with excitement
and anticipation plastered across their faces, the effort and determination of
these select students will yield outstanding results. Newly admitted students
to the program, also referred to as “newbies,” are nervous yet thrilled to experience the honor of being accepted into this prestigious program. The expectations for this year are high, but both advisors, Mr. Spinnato and Ms.
Carlson, are confident in all students. Mr. Spinnato shares his thoughts concerning the program. He explains how nine years ago, the program was in its “infancy” and students
were literally building and testing paper planes. Nine years later, the hard
work and determination of students has brought the club to a level where they
are working and researching at commendable universities like Colombia and
Memorial Sloan-Kettering.
Senior researchers are excited, but quite disappointed that their last
year of Science Research is present.
One researcher, Jasmine says, “It is an award-winning program,”
while senior Karishma adds that they “stand out compared to other kids in the
country.” She also explains how the students in the program grow and bond
like a family and help each other out. Another senior researcher, Madona
Gadalla, admits that the program is challenging, but helps you become a better student and researcher.
When asked for a few words to describe the program, Julia simply
describes the program as a “support team”. Researchers are presently endeavoring on their unique investigations and projects where they will be assessed
during the spring in competitions. All researchers are proud to be a part of
this program, and hope that this year will be a great achievement for all researchers and help them grow stronger as a unit.
Mathletes: To Infinity and Beyond!
by Jemell Campbell
Mr. Greco, the wonderful math teacher who advises the Mathletes, has
helped prepare this outstanding team for competitions since the beginning of
the school year.
On Tuesday October 25, 2011, there was an intense Senior High Mathletes competition at H. Frank Carey High School and, as always, the expectations were very high. Challenging math problems were presented and the
Elmont Memorial High School was well-prepared and ready to compete.
This group of talented teenagers were between the 11th and 12th
grades. For the seniors, it was their second term competing, but for the 2011
juniors it was their first competition.
We had two weeks’ notice, therefore, the team immediately scheduled
time to study and prepare. We were also the smallest of the four schools. Despite these challenges, team members worked diligently and showed Emont
pride in the competition.
While we did not take a first place win on that day, the juniors and seniors scored well and learned plenty about the process for future competitions.
We were a newly developed team and our strong members felt confident that
we would soon rise in the ranks.
This experience allowed members of the Elmont Mathletes to learn
from the feeback given.
Chinyere Onwucheckwa, a junior who is affectionately known as “Chi
Chi,” said that the October competition “was an eye opener, the tension in the
room was thick and you can hear a pin drop, but it was mostly the silence of
skillful thinkers who jumped into thinking mode. Overall, the questions were
challenging, but I did them to the best of my ability.”
Another junior, Loick St. Louis, explained that this competition “was
a brain [twister]. I felt [anxious]...since I am a junior. As the rounds started,
I completely forgot how to evaluate the answer, but I started to use my math
test-taking-skills and applied it to my paper. As a result, I answered a few of
the most challenging questions correct, scoring high points for my school. Go,
Elmont!”
And there you have it: two proud Spartans carrying on our school of
excellence.
Ultimately, this was the first of many future wins for Elmont. We will
continue to apply the work ethic we have shown and we will succeed. We look
forward to the February 3rd tournament at SUNY Westbury and thank our
dedicated leader, Mr. Greco, for his outstanding guidance towards our next
win! LET’S GO SENIOR HIGH MATHLETES!
by Selamawit Moges
All of the fans of the S.E. Hinton novel The Outsiders are still talking about the
senior high drama’s performance of the play. Ms. Lennon and Mr. McAllister, the advisors of this talented group of students, along with their Stage Manager Jermaine Carroll,
selected an extraordinary cast. The Greasers, including Dylan Richards as Ponyboy,
Jamie Powell and Jaime Pinillos as Darry and Sodapop, Brandon Lawrence as the funny
Two-Bit, Aren Scantlebury as Dallas Winston, John Cruz as Johnny, Mariah Robles as
Sandy, are viewed poorly because of their low status in society and poor community on
the eastern part of town while their enemies, “the Socs,” including Jalyn Oyola as Bob,
Cheyenne Carney as Cherry Valance, Imani Lariosa as Marcia, Leon Vanburch as Randy
and Randy Lipscomb as Paul, were the high class society living on the west side and
loved nothing more than to bully those who had less than them.
The actors did a superb job of showing the scenes that students anticipated the
most: the church fire scene, the rumble and the brothers making up.
Through this play. there was an emotional roller coaster from joy and happiness when all the Greasers were just enjoying each other’s company to the crestfallen
moments when tragedy struck as a few of the members’ golden moments did not last
long enough. But their impression in our hearts is still left and Johnny’s final words will
always remind us, too to “stay gold.” We would like to congratulate all the members of
The Outsiders play for their production and remind them that they did not only do it for
Johnny, the did a fantastic job for the play’s audience, too!
With a Cherry on Top: An Actress Reflects on Her Role as
Cherry Valance
by Cheyenne Carney
Participating in the stage production of The Outsiders was not all fun and games:
it required hours of rehearsals and dedication. From the moment I auditioned for the
role of “Cherry,” I realized that in order to put on a good show, tons of work needed to
be done and I was willing to put in as much work as possible just as the rest of the cast.
Almost every day, for hours after school, the cast worked alongside Ms. Lennon and Mr.
McAllister. We would spend hours rehearsing and giving critiques on what we thought
would help make a great show because our number one priority was to make sure that
the audience got the best play that it deserved. There is a high standard for performances
in this school and we wanted to live up to Elmont’s great reputation.
The cast members gave up free Saturdays in place of working on our play so
that we could run through it as smoothly as possible. As November 4th approached, we
were getting better and better, but it was not until our last rehearsal that we had finally
perfected that play.
One word that described being a part of the cast of The Outsiders was dedication.
Without dedication, the play would not have been such a success! Overall, everybody’s
performance was awesome; the students were all very talented people to work with. I
think that John Cruz did an excellent job at playing the role of Johnny: he grasped the
character’s personality very well and I could not imagine a better person for the role.
Working so close with Aren Scantlebury was a very good experience; I got to not only
get to know him as Dallas, but also as a person. The day of the play, our movie theater
scene was by far my favorite scene on the stage.
Being one of the only girls in the production was different from the other plays I
have been in, but it was still a good experience. Imani Lariosa, who played Marcia, says
that,“Overall, the process took a lot of work, but it paid off in the end.” Mariah Robles,
who took on the role of Sandy, says that she was proud to take part in such an awesome
production because she gained many friends doing something she loved. We all would
like to thank you, the audience, for coming to support us and we hope you enjoyed the
show as much as we enjoyed taking a part in it. Class of 2016
by Alanis Smith
The Class of 2016 is a club run for the students by the students! This, of
course, is made possible by support and guidance of our wonderful class advisors,
Ms. Allen and Mr. Sweeney. The class of 2016 is on a roll; providing all the
eighth graders with a fun-filled, exhilarating social experience and a multitude of
tasks and events is simply the goal of this notable group. You may have recalled
the eighth graders scoring first place two out of five times in the Spirit Week
competition and also our unforgettable superman inspired float. We could not have
done it all without the help and participation of all the students that attended.
Even though we did not win, we are still sure that the students in our class are as
dedicated as any other. The club’s devoted E-board and advisors have made sure
that all of the club’s meetings, fundraisers and events are up to par. With Alanis
Smith as president, Augusta Uwamanzu-Nna, as vice president, Adrienne Smith
as secretary and Charvaun Callender as treasurer we are sure to succeed! All of
our fundraisers in the past have proven successful and have had a great turnout
which is why we were not at all surprised to see the outcome of our most recent
movie night.
On January 12, 2012, the eighth grade class sat down to a wonderful action
and mystery filled motion picture.
The sweet smell of popcorn and hot chocolate flooded room L6 as the film
was greatly enjoyed. The movie choice was Doug Liman’s, 2002 Blockbuster
“Bourne Identity” featuring the academy award winning actor Matt Damon. The
excitement and thrill of the action movie left audience and our advisors, Ms. Allen
and Mr. Sweeney on the edge of their seats. With over thirty attendees and a large
number refreshments served we cannot wait to see our next affair. We earned a
significant amount of income and cannot wait for our next upcoming movie night!
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ELMONT PHOENIX
JANUARY 2012
“And the Elmont Halo Award Goes to...”
Researched and Compiled by Terrene Taylor (with special thanks to the administration and faculty in the Main Office)
...7th grader Kededra Sinclair! Kededra returned a phone to the main office. She said she never once questioned whether to keep it because she
knew she would have felt guilty. In addition to being a kind person, she is involved in school activities, including soccer and the Class of 2017. Thank
you for showing your Elmont integrity, Kededra!
...8th grader Selamawit Moges! Selamawit, a member of MUN and Science Research, volunteered her time to renovate a team teacher’s classroom.
With the teacher’s permission, Selamawit organized a group of her team members and redecorated the room with a new arrangement of posters, signs
and a renovated bulletin board. The room looks great and her teacher is very proud of her accomplishment. Congratulations, Selamawit, on your
Elmont initiative!
...9th grader Jaraed Adams! Jaraed found a wallet and did the only moral thing: he returned it to the main office. In his interview, he said the
reason he returned the wallet to the main office is because if he lost something of his, he would want someone to return it. This spectacular student,
who is involved in Honor Society and works at a daycare in his free time, shows us that teenagers can be role models, too. Thank you, Jaraed, for
showing your Elmont compassion!
...10th grader Britney Larsen! Britney recently found a purse that someone left on her desk and immediately decided to return it to the office. She
said she decided to return the purse because “it’s simply the right thing to do.” In her actions, this new student has shown that she already shares the
Elmont code of ethics. Thank you and welcome, Britney!
...11th grader Jemell Campbell! Jemell does community service at his church, including cleaning, fundraising and welcoming new members. He states
the reason he volunteers to do community service within his church because of his strong belief in his church. Jemell, thank you for using her time to
spread the Elmont appreciation for community and charity.
...12th grader Kamada Simth! Kamada, a responsible senior, returned $100 to the main office after finding it in the hallway. It had fallen out of someone’s pocket and the hallways were too crowded to see who it belonged to. Kamada, a student of the month whose picture was displayed in the Science
hallway, belongs to Key Club and the yearbook committee. She loves art and enjoys drawing in her spare time. When I asked her, she admitted, honestly,
that she questioned whether to keep the found money. Ultimately, she decided to return it because is she lost that amount of money (or any money),
she would want a kindhearted soul to return it, too. Thank you, Kamada, for being an inspiration to us all!
‘AHA’ MOMENTS: STUDENTS APPLAUD MEMORABLE LESSONS
“Teachers matter...”
~President Barack Obama, State of the Union Address (January 24, 2012)
So many of our Elmont teachers should be recognized and praised. One of this month’s top teachers should be Mr. Spinnato. Mr. Spinnato is a
great, hard-working, and dedicated teacher. He not only teaches his assigned classes, but does Team Center, as well as directs the Science Research
group. He has recently also taught at Clara H. Carlson for the Summer Enrichment program over the summer. This teacher is outstanding and deserves to stand out among the rest this month. Go, Mr. Spinnato!!
▪ Saarah Ahsan
I started playing football in the 4th grade and I knew that I would love it. When I began playing for Elmont in the 7th grade, my role decreased and it lessened my spirit.
By my 9th grade year I was determined to become a key player again, so I worked hard during the summer and tried to make sure Mr. Patel and Mr. Sullivan
knew I was serious about football. At the end of the season, I had impressed the coaches and played well. Before the season started, Mr. Sullivan told me that he knew
I had a lot of potential and he wanted me to show it all on the field. When I was named captain of the team, I knew in my head that my hard work had paid off: all the
days in the summer and the hard battles on the field made me into a better person and my coaches helped me see that I was able to lead the team. Being named captain
of the JV team in 10th grade proved that I was on the road to a great season and was my moment of realization.
▪ Ben Odugbesan
From year to year, not every lesson is remembered, but youpecial moments stick to my heart. Ms. Giorgio presented an interview between Oprah and Nobel Peace
Prize award winner Elie Wiesel as an introduction to his astonishing book Night. The emotional impact of that interview as they strolled through Aushchwitz was tear
jerking, but the greatest thing that strikes anyone watching it is that in no way does this interview touch the depth of emotion that swells behind a victim's heart. What
kind of emotional scars are left behind and what internal battles do these survivors' continually face? The interview is in no way, shape or form poorly done, but rather
to grasp the entirety of the Holocaust you need to have experienced it. In all of Ms. Giorgio's lessons, she probably did less in this lesson than she has in any other, but
it has carried in me the most weight. She ends her lesson with the simple fact that injustice on massive scales still exist in the world today. Thank you, Ms. Giorgio for
showing me that interview. Though it was not easy, it has touched levels of my humanity.
▪ Mel Palaca
I wish you were all there when Señora Lunati taught 8th grade conjugations. She taught the lesson as usual, but at first, I just did not get it. Even
after doing a few examples, it still was not going through my head correctly. Then, she showed a video clip showing how to make proper conjugations. After hearing her explanation and seeing the visual, it was like an “AHA” moment. Thanks to Señora Lunati for such a great lesson.
Everyone should have a teacher who makes connections for them like that. Gracias!
▪ Sabrina Darko
It was hard to pick a moment from my high school football experience as my “Aha” moment. There is so much I learned and gotten out of my coaches, from
as early as Junior Varsity when Coach Sullivan told some of my teammates “Watch out, this kid’s going to be a beast!” all the way up until senior year with
Coach Kinsley’s pre-game talks. He would remind us of our goals and tell us our opponent is in our way and it is our job to get them out. I still remember
the summer of 9th grade, standing out on the field with the team and telling Coach Hegi, “I don’t know a thing about football.” He laughed and said, “Don’t
worry, you’re smart, you’ll get it.” I’ve learned [to attain] so much drive and determination through my coaches. Coach Patel taught me how size doesn’t matter; it’s about skill. I was probably the smallest kid on the defensive line in all my years of football, but I pushed to be one of the best. When it comes down
to it, I think my “Aha!” moment would have to be during the final week of practice. I had planned to leave practice early because I had to go to my job. The
only coach on the field was Coach Carretta. I told him I had to go and planned to leave at that moment. He was nearly speechless; he shook his head and
told me he didn’t know what to say. I commenced to the locker room to get my things when I thought of how important this week was. Instead of getting my
things, I threw my pads on, called my manager and got back on the field, ready to practice. From that moment on, my team was first. ▪ Dennis Melendez
Would you like to honor a teacher or faculty member whose wonderful academic or life lesson has inspired you? Describe the lesson in an e-mail and
send it to mharley@sewanhaka.k12.ny.us and include your name, grade and English teacher.
JANUARY 2012
ELMONT
PHOENIX
TEEN ISSUES AND GLOBAL INTERESTS
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Girls
vs. Media
by Selamawit Moges
From Beyoncé’s hit single “Run the World” to “Toddlers and Tiaras”, society can
send different messages to young girls all over the world. “Run the World” is a song all about
female empowerment and how girls can do anything and be independent with or without
a male influence in their lives. “Toddlers and Tiara’s”, the hit show on TLC, displays the
process of ordinary little girls being transformed into beauty queens, an expensive and controversial way of making them look older than their age. In many cases, it shows spoiled kids
who live and breathe pageants and their parents who are faced with often-rebellious children.
Whether it be a music video or a two-year-old wearing lipstick, are these images in the media
helping or hurting teenagers and younger girls?
As technology demands increase, internet access is at the tip of our fingers. Watching certain shows can relay a positive or negative effect on just about anyone. One female figure that has surely, without a doubt, changed society today is the widely famous Lady Gaga.
Some may find her to be a role model for young people who are finding it hard to confront
with finding their identity without having to feel like an outsider and being ununcomfortable
in your own skin. She shows teenagers that it is okay to be different and it is a beautiful thing.
(These are the messages in her lyrics, but some may disagree with her persona in videos and
public appearances.)
While pop culture may present women who are controversial in their tactics, one
must ask why we are not regularly reminded of women whose contributions to society are
not as scandalous. What about the women who have paved the way for women’s rights and
who created positive, strong images over the years? An empowering historical female figure
would be Amelia Earhart, who was the daredevil of her century. She could never imagine
herself [subjected] when she could be flying planes and breaking records.
A present day literary role model is J.K Rowling whose worldwide top bookseller
for the outstanding series has made her a world-renowned, successful author. She has made
over 700 million dollars and even though she had a tough time, she was able to overcome her
obstacles and achieve success.
Present-day First Lady Michelle Obama is an extension of we should all strive to
be: proud, sophisticated, charitable and charismatic. Once upon a time, she may have looked
up to Coretta Scott King as a role model, not a woman prancing around in short skirt or low
jeans. At an early age, Ms. King faced segregation, yet that did not stop her from excelling
in her studies and becoming valedictorian of her class. The fact that she did not have the
resources or privileges like some kids were bestowed, that did not stop her from becoming
the best. As an undergraduate she became active in civil rights movements and also became
involved in uplifting women and human rights. This proves she was not the type of person to
just sit down and take whatever was dished out to her.
Eleanor Roosevelt once said, “No one can make you feel inferior without your consent.” This means no one can make you feel unimportant and worthless unless you make
yourself feel that way. Are we giving our “consent” to the television shows and music that
degrades us and makes us appear less than what we are? Aren’t we approving of such shows
and music when we watch or purchase (or even listen to) it?
Angelina Jolie, a beautiful actress whose family life has been the subject of many
headlines, uses her fame for good: she has aided countries such as Cambodia, Darfur and
Jordan. In 2005, she won the Global Humanitarian Action Award from the United Nations
Association of the USA for helping others around the world.
Girls, if we are to truly “Run the World,” we must do so with a shield that protects us
from a media that is trying to tell us who we are or who we should be. With many empowering women, past or present, we must choose wisely whose words and actions we follow
because not every message is the right one. Find the right words of wisdom and live them.
Taxing Unhealthy Foods
by Amna Kamil
Denmark has recently imposed the first “fat tax” in the world
and has many countries commenting about it. Many would probably
expect this since the world’s obesity seems to be increasing every year.
However, the fat tax is not focused on decreasing obesity since Denmark’s obesity rate is astonishingly low. The fat tax is actually being
used to hopefully increase the life expectancy of people living in Denmark which is considered low compared to other countries.
The fat taxes are aimed at decreasing the intake of high saturated foods. A certain food in Denmark is taxed when the percentage
of saturated fat increases 2.3 percent. Food items that a normal person
would probably intake every day are taxed in Denmark such as chips,
whole milk, ice cream, butter, and even a hamburger. The amount of
tax that would be charged for some items high in saturated fats would
be 40 extra cents for a hamburger, 12 extra cents for a bag of chips, 50
extra cents for a pound of cheese, 70 extra cents for a half pound of
pork, and an extra 45 cents for butter.
Denmark’s government is hoping that people will not eat these
fatty foods as often as they usually would. Saturated foods contribute
to a reduction in life expectancy by producing cardiovascular disease
and cancer. Before Denmark established their fat tax, they already had
banned trans fats and were taxing sugared drinks such as soda. While
fat taxes may cause people in Denmark to become healthier, not so
many people are pleased about it. Some people in Denmark believe
that the government should not decide what they eat and what they do
not eat.
The major question that many people are wondering in America
is whether or not it would make a difference if America were to impose the same tax. The United States is currently ranked number one
for the highest obesity rates. So, obesity in America continues to be a
major problem. Numerous people agree that a fat tax on fatty foods
and sugared drinks would benefit America by decreasing the obesity
rate. People may be discouraged to buy foods they would usually get
because of an additional tax. They might consider buying healthier
foods instead of the usual things they would purchase. People may
also think of buying water instead of soda because of an additional tax.
However, a fat tax is a very controversial topic in America. For
example, Michelle Obama has been trying to increase physical fitness
for children by encouraging them to spend more time playing outside
and eating healthier. However, Sarah Palin handed out cookies in an
elementary school in Pennsylvania where cookies were banned as a
protest to Ms. Obama’s initiative. The first fat tax in the world imposed by Denmark has many different views but can have an overall
positive contribution to the world.
The
ABCs of the HPV Vaccine
by Augusta Uwamanzu-Nna
Recently, there was tremendous controversy over the mandatory HPV vaccine Republican, former presidential candidate, Rick Perry authorized while serving
was governor of Texas. In February 2007, mandated that the girls in his state be given this vaccine.
HPV is also referred to as the human papillomavirus. The vaccine protects girls from some strains of the virus and which is believed to contribute to cervical
cancer. Perry, as governor of Texas, made it a law that all girls must have the vaccine.
Michelle Bachman, another former Republican presidential candidate, criticized Perry for this legislature, which was overturned in May of the same year.
More than 30-40 types of HPV are transmitted through sexual contact and, while some say the intentions of a mandatory vaccine are good, the controversy lies
in whether or not the government should make it mandatory. Studies were conducted proving that girls who were vaccinated had a lesser chance of contracting HPV
compared to girls who were not vaccinated. The efficacy of the vaccine was positive.
In a debate against Perry, Bachman also added that the vaccine can have dangerous side effects including mental retardation. This vaccine has been FDA approved and there is no scientific validity of this vaccine having damaging effects such as mental retardation of girls vaccinated. But, there is still controversy. Here are
the benefits and the negative aspects of this vaccine.
PROS
1. The vaccine guards against four HPV strains (two are linked to cervical cancer and the other two are linked to warts);
2. According to some sources, if the entire population was vaccinated, the amounts of infections, Pap Tests, and cancers would decrease, resulting of the de
crease in expenditures linked with these items
3. Licensed by the FDA and are found safe by the CDC
CONS
1. It does not protect against all strains of HPV
2. Not much is known about its long term affects
3. Parents are concerned with it being too early, or an excuse to be more sexually active during teen years
Armed with this information, would you object if this vaccine were mandated in New York state? Should it be a choice of the individual or the state?
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ELMONT PHOENIX
JANUARY 2012
Something Beastly This Way Comes:
An Actor’s Journey into the Musical
Mission: Beauty and the Beast
Well, I have always loved acting. I think it’s so much fun to just be someone
else for a while. I can act differently without worrying. To be a good actor, you have
to be able to lie to a whole group of people; but you have to stick to a story. [The audition experience compared to last year] was . . . in a sense familiar. After four years
of doing auditions, I can expect what to feel and it feels great. Every time I audition,
I feel refreshed; so it felt like a new chapter in the musical history of my life. I feel
[that Beauty and the Beast is going to be] something over the top, something great is
coming and a new sect of the musical is about to shine for all. Not section . . . Just a
new part. It seems to me that all the musicals we have done have shared [a similar]
feel, but here is something classic.
The Butterflies Better Fly . . . It’s the Auditions!
The nerves [when auditioning] are always terrible and I honestly don’t think
there’s any way to avoid them. It’s like American Idol; you put your best foot forward and hope that you become who you want to be. As for the dancing, it’s even
worse because you have no time to practice. You learn the audition routine the same
day of the auditions. For the first day of auditions, I sang something from the musical that we are doing, but I’ve always chosen a song I really can get into, even if it
is not from the musical.
On the second day of auditions, it was very nerve-wracking; being there,
side by side with all the other people, you realize it’s a competition. I felt like I had
to be the best and [the pressure was on] because they did callbacks right afterwards
so I felt like I would cry or faint. Waiting for my name to get called, my heart was
hammering and I was sweating unsure if I had done enough or well enough to make
the cut. But it was great.
Judgment Day
Both auditions, performing in front of the judges on day 1 and in front of my
competition on day 2, are scary in a different ways. One is the feeling of not getting
anything or any feedback from the judges, while the other is seeing how well you are
and judging yourself. I felt like I performed the best I could. I was better than some,
worse than others. But I try to...just focus on what I’m doing.
When I audition, I always have two characters I want to be. In this case, one
was Gaston, the pompous overbearingly cocky character, the other, Lumeire, the
funny, elegant, flirtatious character.
I made it! I got the role of Lumeire and I am completely happy with it.
There’s Something About the Musical
It’s not only for the fun of being a lead, but the reason I do it all is for the
friendships, the bonding with other people and the amazing feeling of doing something perfectly and having people love it. It may be one of the best feelings in the
world.
The Future . . .
I’m honestly not thinking about anything in the arts or anything to do with
acting. I’m thinking about doing either pre-law or pre-med. But the thing is, acting
and doing musicals is a great help for both. My advice to aspiring actors and actresses is to work hard, never give up and never be afraid. There will never be a bad
moment if you give it your all.
We are all looking forward to Elmont’s upcoming musical
performance of Beauty and the Beast on March 2-3rd!
Career Corner: Entrepreneur/Bookseller
by Chinyere Onwuchekwa
“Excuse me. Can you tell me where I can find Fahrenheit 451 by Ray Bradbury?”
“Hi, can I have an ice coffee, with half-half and two sugars?”
“Do you know the price of this book? I didn’t see it on the back.”
These everyday questions that are heard from book readers and coffee drinkers that come
into a bookstore-cafe every day, especially from those who prefer paper over electronics.
In 1990, the publishing company “Seaburn Publishing” was created in an apartment in Long
Island City. In 1995, the same year I was born, my father decided to open up a bookstore on Steinway,
Astoria, I practically spent my whole life around books and distinguished people, including Bill Cosby
and Tyler Perry. In this time, I have also leaned how to earn and save money. As I developed from my
toddler to teenage years, it was my turn to run the business, as my parents did what they had to do to
keep our bookstore and publishing company running.
At the age of 11, I was able to checkout customers at the cash register, swipe credit and debit
cards and count money so often and so quickly that I was soon able to do it in my head. I learned to
interact with customers by knowing comments to say and what subjects to avoid. My communication
skills developed and I learned about my tone of voice and friendly ways to direct customers throughout the bookstore. My skills and talents grew impeccably as the years went on.
Now, at the age of 16, I am able to teach those who already have college degrees and more experience in work then I do, how to run a community bookstore and internet café. It’s not difficult to work
in a bookstore such as mine. All you need to know really is how to alphabetize, use the internet, make
coffee, tea and hot chocolate and how to manage your time wisely to make sure your work is done and
customers are satisfied. At times, it does get really slow, but when the clock strikes 4 pm, BOOM, you
have a flow of customers coming in and that is when the fun really begins.
In my eyes, going to the bookstore on the weekend and working is not a waste of time. Yes,
at times I do wish I was home watching Nick Toons and socializing with my friends all weekend, but
like all teenagers, I want to have a little spending money in my pocket and money in the bank to save
up. My father always uses this quote, “To have money, you have to make money. To spend money you
have to make and save money.”
My parents are pure entrepreneurs. If they are not at the bookstore, my dad is either at our
warehouse or going to functions that put our store on the map. My mom, if she is not at the store, is
either running around with the three of us or on the construction site, doing what she does best.
As a young mind, I know that I have a lot to learn, but having the experience that I have had for the
past 16 years of my life being around those who inspire me to keep pushing myself and not letting anyone
drag me back, I know exactly what to expect in the future. The skills that I have developed at my family
bookstore and internet café are more skills than most kids my age have had the privilege to attain.
I truly believe in Charles Darwin’s quote that states, “A man who dares to waste one hour of time
has not discovered the value of life” which is why I will use my time well and prepare for my future.
EDUCATIONAL WEBSITES for Students
by Saarah Ahsan
Many students may not be able to access educational books or other such sources from the library
due to certain circumstances. However, we have found a solution to those problems using the Internet.
Students who are trying to both study and help the earth simultaneously have finally found assistance!!
http://www.freerice.com/#/basic-math-pre-algebra/16850 is a great educational website which helps students
master Chemistry, Math, Geography, English, Humanities, and Language Learning. For every question which
you answer correctly, you help to donate 10 grains of rice to the world food Programme to help end world
hunger. Of course, there are also others who want to still be in the “game-mode” while studying. One of
these solutions would be http://www.uen.org/7-12interactives/. This website gives a great number of games
which deal with Science, Health, Technology, The Arts, Language, Mathematics, and Social Studies games.
They not only provide a great quantity, but a great quality, as well.
A number of students may just want to take a few state tests to prepare for upcoming assessments.
A great website that would help students with this issue would be http://www.nysed.gov/. This website
provides students with recent New York State exams as well as recent New York Regents Exams. in many
subjects.
How are these websites actually going to help you? By practicing and reinforcing the skills that
you have learned in your classrooms, you will see an improvement in your level of understanding (i.e. high
test scores)!
Mirror, Mirror on the Wall: On Teen Self-Image
Each person is beautiful and special in his or her own way. Use this space
to remind yourself of your talents and your wonderful qualities.
1.
2.
3.
by Leanna Faulk
“Do not wish to be anything but what you are, and try to be that perfectly.”~ St. Francis De Sales. A quote perfectly useful for reminding ourselves of how
valuable we are. Everyday teenagers in school are feeling ashamed of themselves, hoping to be somebody else. Self esteem is very important in a teenager’s life because
their self esteem decides their choices. You may not realize it but the people who you look up to share a major part in your self image. Some children, everyday, receive
criticism from their parents, teachers, peers, and even coaches. When students in your class are continuously saying derogatory jokes about someone, although they
may seem funny at first, many people take them seriously and it affects them greatly.
Statistics from a study with 3,400 12th grade high school boy’s show 6.6% reported having resorted to steroids. Those at risk include boys who have been
teased as a child about being too fat or too short. The boys at highest risk are those who base their self-esteem solely on how they look. Researchers found that of 455
college women with poor body image, more than 80 percent said their parents or siblings had made negative comments about their bodies during childhood. This
research shows that a teenager’s surroundings affect their self image deeply.
These statistics should show how many of our peers our affected by self image. It should also show how important it is to students our age.
ELMONT PHOENIX
JANUARY 2012
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CULTURAL ARTS: POETRY, STORIES. FILM AND MUSIC
Losing
Effort
by Jonathan Jones
The
Ecological Disaster
by Selamawit Moges
Don’t
Look Back
By Reena Khan
I lost the words,
I lost the passion,
Still looking for what I can't find.
I lost the verbs,
I lost the actions,
Still trying to leave the future behind.
Like I lived to see my own wake,
Why am I putting together things
That I didn't break?
But it's those chances that you
gotta take
I have to lock my mind up
So my heart can escape.
But what does it mean
To be a human being?
Why am I always caught between
What I want
And what I need?
But nowadays it's a losing effort
In all of these fights,
But would I give it all
Just to have my name in lights?
Crash landed and I never even
Took a flight.
I’m still here just
Trying to set fire to ice . . .
I engulf those around me
And never suppress my rage
Those who neglect to care for
me when I am restrained
Will always feel my uproar
I don’t always caused the trouble
YOU do the majority of times
First you will feel heat that tingles
through your body
Next you will fell the burn that
I kiss you with
And finally I will give you the
hug that will take your life
And if I feel merciful I will let
you live
But once you come with me
You will never come out the same
With the life I take away
I bring new life with me
You suspected I only destroyed
Don’t be shocked
I am no liar
I can only be
A forest fire
He never looked back.
He walked quickly
As if he had a place to go.
Somewhere to be.
Someone to meet.
He wore black and chains.
A dark expression.
A mystery to everyone.
No one could decipher him
Or his ways
And the loneliness inside.
He was quiet and brave
But afraid.
He walked ahead
With a purpose,
Leaving everyone behind.
No one knew who
He really was.
But he chose the path
He walked on,
But it was the day
That he finally looked back
That his life changed forever.
Decoding Lyrics
We love our music and are moved by melodies, but what is
the deeper message within the lyrics?
“Change” Sung by Carrie Underwood
Analyzed by Reena Khan
Change by Carrie Underwood is a very true song about
our world and how we live our lives. There is so much pain and
destruction in the world and sometimes we don’t think we could
make a difference but this song motivates you to do something
about it. Even if helping make the world a better place starts
with sending out a prayer for those in need, you could make a
change.
What you're gonna do with the 36 cents
Sticky with coke on your floorboard
When a woman on the street is huddled in the cold
On a sidewalk bench trying to keep warm
Do you call her over, hand her the change
Ask her her story, ask her her name
Or do you tell yourself
"You're just a fool, just a fool to believe you can change the world”
"You're just a fool, just a fool to believe you can change the world”
The first verse of this song shows that we have so
much small change hanging around that we take for granted.
Eventually, small change adds up and could help another person.
Inspiration on Film: Students Review
Small change may not be a treasure for us, but it could be for
someone that’s starving for a meal. There are so many people
“‘From the last plane to the last bullet to the last minute to the last man, we fight. We fight! WE that pass a homeless person straight. Some don’t think that that
FIGHT!’ This amazing movie [depicts] WWII when the Tuskegee Airmen were in action! Director person could have a name or a story that led up to them being
Anthony Hemingway took history and turned it into a masterpiece…”
~Nnenna Onsuchekwa stranded on the road on a cold night.
Red Tails
“…Red Tails is a great and dramatic, emotional movie. The main actors Nate Parker as Marty “Easy”
Julian, Tristan Wilds as Ray “Junior” Gannon, Elijah Kelly as Samuel “Joker” George, David Oyelowo
as Joe “Lightening” Little, Ne-Yo as Andrew “Smoky” Salem and Marcus T. Paulk as David “Deke”
Watkins… were very interesting [on screen]. I recommend anyone to watch this movie.”
~Bandon Allen
What you're gonna do when you're watching TV
And an ad comes on, yeah, you know the kind
Flashing up pictures of a child in need
For a dime a day, you could save a life
Do you call the number, reach out a hand
Or do you change the channel, call it a scam
Do you tell yourself
“Red Tails was a great film and it exceeded all of my expectations. It was a good movie that showed
how much black fighter pilots helped during World War II. It was a movie that was created to finally
recognize the efforts of the Tuskegee Airmen. Red Tails was informative, action-packed, touching and
thrilling. I would recommend this movie to anyone—they would not regret it.”
~Saran Eccles There are so many commercials that we see everyday
that we pay no mind to, thinking that someone else could help
“The action-packed film Red Tails, directed by Anthony Hamilton and executive producer George that child or that there’s no way that one person could make a
Lucas, is extraordinarily moving. The film symbolizes the hardships of racism, inequality and prejudice difference in the world. There are so many children out there
that these pilots had to overcome in order to gain respect for their heroism.”
that are orphans, that have no family, that are all alone in the
~Imani Hawkins world with nothing to eat. Many of these children are often
suffer from malnutrition and other sicknesses that they could
“Red Tails is a suspenseful…historical film. It is a great movie and very enjoyable.” ~Lerone Clark die from because they have no one to help them.
FLASH FICTION
Students were challenged to write stories in exactly 100 words.
“Secrets”
by Renee King
As she fussed over the vision in white, her blood ran cold with venom and jealousy. Flashbacks of secret rendezvous, covert jokes and the quiet moments when they hid from the world
flooded her mind. Without thinking, she ran out the suite, ignoring the nervous calls beckoning
her back to the bridal party.
Opening the door, with worry plastered on his face, he whispered, “Why are you here? Is
Trish ok?”
She longed to hold him like before, but instead, she slapped him as a rivulet of tears broke
through her indestructible levee: “Why her? Why didn’t you choose me?”
“LIfe on the Island”
by Reena Khan
I was stuck on the island with a dozen people I didn’t know. There was no food, no fresh
water, no way back home. Half of the people were boys, half were girls. We were survivors of shipwreck and prisoners to the insidious island. We were starving. Nobody dared enter the ominous
forest to find food. This place was different. For all we knew, we weren't even on earth anymore.
We heard alien-like growls from the trees. When night fell, we slept.
That’s when the beast came.
It assassinated everyone…but the two of us.
Thank goodness my boyfriend was there.
“The Ferris Wheel”
by Renee King
Climbing onto the ride, anxiety seeped back into the air. She glanced up to find him staring intensely at her.
“What?” she questioned.
“You’re just…beautiful,” he whispered and quickly looked away.
Traveling upward, she scooted closer to him and he wrapped his arm around her. The ride
stopped at the top. Nervously he glanced towards her.
Gently, he turned her head so their faces were only centimeters apart and his forehead
was against hers. Just as her eyes closed, the ride came to life; the moment passed.
Embarrassed he laced his fingers into hers as compensation for missing his chance.
To submit your poetry, flash fiction or “Decoding Lyrics” suggestion, send an e-mail to
mharley@sewanhaka.k12.ny.us and include your name, grade and English teacher.
"You're just a fool, just a fool to believe you can change the world"
Don't listen to them when they say
"You're just a fool, just a fool to believe you can change the world"
Oh, the smallest thing can make all the difference
Love is alive, don't listen to them when they say
"You're just a fool, just a fool to believe you can change the world"
Carrie Underwood inspires us to make a change in the
world because even the smallest thing can help someone in need.
Sometimes we do tell ourselves that no matter what we do, it
won’t be enough because there’s just too much suffering in the
world. In truth, one small act of kindness from someone could
bring so much hope to someone who needs it. This song really
shows an internal battle within yourself. You could have a good
heart and do as much as you can to try and make someone’s life
better or you could have a selfish heart, thinking that no matter
what you do, it wouldn’t change a thing so there’s no point in
trying. One little fraction of charity that you could give could
save someone’s life.
The world's so big, it can break your heart
And you just want to help, not sure where to start
So you close your eyes
And send up a prayer into the dark
This verse shows that the world is indeed big and can
sometimes be overwhelming with the amount of people in it.
Over half of these people on the earth need help, need food,
need shelter, need someone to talk to, need someone to be their
friend, or someone to hold their hand and help them through the
darkness in their lives. Carrie Underwood shows you that you
could help someone just by sending up a prayer. And there’s so
much more you can do, even if it’s giving a homeless woman
your coins, or sending in dimes to save a tormented child’s life.
"You're just a fool, just a fool to believe you can change the world"
Don't listen to them when they say
"You're just a fool, just a fool to believe you can change the world"
Oh, the smallest thing can make all the difference
Love is alive, don't listen to them when they say
"You're just a fool, just a fool to believe you can change the world"
This song may touch anyone who listens to it because
it describes real life and changes that we could choose to make
that could change real life for the better. It makes you think
about how big the world really is and what’s really happening
around us. The lyrics compile such amazing emotion that you
want to get up and find someone to help right away because if
you don’t start helping someone, who will?
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Elmont reflects:
A
Successful
Soccer
Season
by Justin Okoro
When asked what are the main sports
at Elmont Memorial High School, too many
teams come to mind because our students are
very talented. This year, there was special attention given to our varsity soccer team. Led by
Elmont's very own Coach Patrick Corvetti and
his team captains, Justin Okoro and Richard
Robinson, this year’s team improved tremendously from last year’s stats. The Varsity Boys
Soccer team ranked #10 in Nassau County and
also finished #1 in conference 3AA. Magic?
No, magic has nothing to do with these players’ level of skill on the field.
Although the season is over for these
boys, it was an incredible ride it will not soon
be forgotten.
With every great success comes the
hard work that preceeds it. With the disappointment of the previous season, Elmont
started training camp during the summer of
2011 by establishing a winning mentality. This
positive force was visible during Elmont’s
6-3 home win against district rivals H. Frank
Carey. The game began with two quick goals
from Carey. Then, with first place on the line,
there was a sublime finish by substitute, Javid
Small. His contribution led to the Carey "2-1"
Elmont scoreboard which sparked our boys to
life. Riding the energy from the first goal, Elmont added a second thanks to senior captain
Richard Robinson, to tie the game at, Carey:22:Elmont. A third goal by Chad Barker gave
Elmont a 3-2 lead heading into half time.
Carey began the second half strongly,
scoring a third to tie the game at, Carey:33:Elmont. Frustrated by the constant back and
forth between the two teams, Elmont piled on
the pressure on the Carey defence, resulting
in the game winner from senior captain Justin Okoro, dribbling past two players before,
shooting from twenty-three yards, to beat the
Carey Goal keeper. Elmont seized control of
the game, adding two more from leading goal
scorer Benjamin Alonge and a recent transfer
from Carey, Esosa Aluyi, to win the game and
ensure first place, Elmont:6-3:Carey.
This is one more reason to support
your Elmont Varsity Boys Soccer for years to
come. Elmont has definitely planted its studs
back into the cemter of the high school soccer
world.
Elmont’s progress can be attributed to
to establishing a team goal, work ethic, and
team unity, "Spartan Spirit" has pushed us beyond a difficult season to becoming a conference championship team.
As a captain and a senior, I am proud
to see the accomplishments of this year’s soccer team and I wish future soccer players in
Elmont the best the sport has to offer. We have
laid a good foundation and it is up to you to
take the school name even further. Thank you
Coach Corvetti for your dedication to our team
ELMONT PHOENIX
Spartans Support Petro
JANUARY 2012
by Elijah Ross
On December 10th, in the wonderful tradition of honoring the memory of Coach Gregg Petrocelli, a leader
and significant figure at Elmont Memorial High School, each person who came in support of our school that Saturday
morning enjoyed a special event.
To begin, the boys Varsity basketball team played H. Frank Carey at 1 PM. The Spartans’ aggressive defense
resulted in a win for Elmont. Leading scorers Tristan Brown (14 points) and Daniel Alexander (14 points) demonstrated
how helping out on defense and not only offense is key to a successful season.
Spartan Captain Michael Dugue explained, “Through the concept of productive man to man and on ball pressure
defense, it allowed us to take control of the floor and score.”Although the Lady Spartans lost by a conclusive 3 points,
leading scorer Bria Fisher (19 points) and team Captain Goldie Harrison explained how “We provided a solid on ball
defensive pressure, but we needed to focus on making our free-throws. Our free-throws are what killed us.”
Both Spartan teams demonstrate a solid and ground foundation that will provide many triumphant wins
throughout each of their seasons.
Special guest Senator Jack Martins said, “The Petro Classic is a day where we remember a man who was a
father figure, educator, friend and coach at Elmont Memorial High School. I was very honored to be asked to be a
part of this special day. As we all know, the Petro classic did not disappoint anyone. The talent we have at Elmont
Memorial is truly extraordinary and I am proud to call many of the players on the boys and girls team as friends. Even
more inspirational was the fact that so many alumni and community members came back to cheer on our teams and
remember a man who loved Elmont.”
Let’s wish our Spartans luck as they progress throughout the season! Sewanhaka District Gymnastics Team:
Flipping intoVictory
by Jasmine Williams
Did you know that Elmont had a gymnastics team? Elmont Memorial
is a part of the Sewanhaka Gymnastics team, which is composed of girls
from each school in the district. The Sewanhaka gymnastics team practices
every day at New Hyde Park Memorial High School and is part of Conference 1. Gymnastics is a sport that takes perseverance, especially when gymnastics tells you that what you are trying to accomplish is not possible and
you are crazy for even attempting it. Gymnastics also takes discipline; it
means taking each fall, slip, or wobble as motivation to do better. It is a mix
of being as graceful as a ballet dancer and as aggressive as a football player.
This sport also takes humility because it is only the gymnast and her
event; no one else can really help her in the meet. Humility is shown when
a gymnast falls during crunch time and continues with her routine.
The Sewanhaka Gymnastics team has all three of these qualities.
That’s why this gymnastics team has beaten Garden City and Hewlett, a
great opening to the season for the Sewanhaka District Gymnastics Team.
Elmont members include Jasmine Williams, Stephanie Jennings, Corinne
Alleyne, Joy Banks, Ashley Reese, Samantha St. Juste, Deenah Cayemitte,
Briana Simpson-Fisher and Yovica Valentin. This team is led by the amazing Ms. Mosie, a new English teacher at Elmont Memorial High School.
Elmont Wrestling Team
by Renee King
Two hours, six days a week is the training schedule for the Sewanhka District Wrestling team.
Ranging from the 9th to 12th grade over thirty students from Floral Park, Sewanhaka, and Elmont are
preparing to take the mat this season. Led by Mr. Horner, Mr. Rawls and Mr. Rubenstien these athletes
complete vigorous conditioning to increase strength coupled with practice matches to perfect their
technique.
According to one of one of our own Spartans Nikai Carter the warriors have high expectations
for this year’s wrestling season. The team has been doing excessive training to get their minds and body’s
prepared for their upcoming opponents. When asked why he started wrestling Nikai. Carter stated “I
started because wrestling not only is a great sport for the physical aspect but mentally also. It takes a lot
of mental strength to be a wrestler”, he when on to say that “Wrestling is a sport of which you can’t blame
anybody but yourself for your wins or your losses. You can only decide your own destiny because once
you’re on that mat, the only person out there is you and the outcome of the match whether you win or
lose will only be determined by how hard you worked”
Wrestler Dennis Melendez says, “The team this year is dedicated to no complaining and everyone
is focused” reflecting on the new mind set of the entire for this coming season. In wrestling a victory is
based on the amount of points a team racks up after each team member competes against a member from
the opposing team that is in their weight class. This year the districts biggest rivals are Massapequa but
with the dedication and focus that the team already possesses along with the vigorous training they are
quickly on their way to becoming the best. Last Dennis Melendez took the warriors to what is known as
one of the most difficult matches in the county. This year the warriors plan to take the 1st place trophy
home.