May 2019

THE PANTHER PRESS
The Voice of Career High School

May 2019 New Haven, CT careerpantherpress.weebly.com

Author Ryan Dostie Inspires Students

Franchezca Pérez

Author Ryan Dostie (third from right) poses with student members of high school book clubs across New Haven.
(Photo/Marilyn Wilson)

On May 2nd, a citywide book club event was held in the library of Career High School in which author Ryan
Dostie presented her new book Formation: A Woman’s Memoir of Stepping out of Line. Dostie, who years ago
was a long-term English substitute at Career, is also married to Career history teacher Mr. Osenko.
This citywide book club event was the first time in which school librarian Mrs. Wilson invited an author to the
school, along with all the other area high schools. Book clubs from Hillhouse, Cross, New Haven Academy,
Metro, Co-Op, HSC, and Sound schools were all present at the event, totaling approximately 90 students.
The event was organized after author Ryan Dostie gave an advanced reader copy of her new book Formation,
to Mrs. Wilson. After reading it, Mrs. Wilson had the idea to bring this book to not only Career’s book club,
but to book club members all around the city.
According to Mrs. Wilson, some teachers and students from other high schools commented that they were
“very inspired by [Dostie’s] talk and very excited about the event.”
Formation tells the true story of Ryan Dostie’s experience joining the military. Dostie originally had a goal to
use the military to get to college and travel. She wanted to learn other languages, and learned Farsi in the mili-
tary. However, her experience can’t be viewed through rose-colored glasses. She also found difficulties in the
military. Dostie was raped by a fellow soldier, and then she was doubted and blamed by the officers who in-
vestigated. She was left with trauma and PTSD, but she still had the courage to speak out.
See Missing in New Haven, Continued on Page 3

1

Ramadan Kareem!

Adam Ahmad-Rizal
It was that time for all Muslims from around the world: the month of Ramadan! Ramadan is the holy month in
the Islamic calendar, which is completely separate from the traditional calendar and varies each year. The
most well-known aspect of Ramadan is the days of fasting. This is where Muslims are not able to eat nor
drink from sunrise till sunset, or basically during the day. But Ramadan doesn’t simply consist of fasting. It
consists of a lot of prayer, reading the Quran, and spending time with your family.
The fast is composed of waking up very early in the morning, right before the “Fajr” prayer, or sunrise prayer.
This is where people might want to eat as much food as they need and drink a ton of water to have enough
energy for the day. Those who are fasting cannot eat or drink for the remainder of the daytime. They will go
on through the day, go to school, go to work, perform prayer, and read the Quran whenever they can. And of
course, they have to prepare the meal to break the fast!
If you were to ask a Muslim “How can you possibly do it?” they will often answer, “We’re used to it.” That is
usually the case, since many Muslims have been fasting since they were in elementary school. Muslims are
obligated to perform the fast once they hit puberty. Fasting during Ramadan is one the five pillars of Islam,
which are things that Muslims should do in their life. It also includes paying Zakat, which is charity you
should be paying when you have enough money to do so.
People also ask “What if you accidentally break the fast?” or “What if you skip a day?” If that’s the case, you
can simply make it up in future days. But you should not be skipping days just so you can make it up later—
Ramadan does not work like that. The month of Ramadan is the best way to fulfill your Islamic practices.
Ramadan can be a test, but at the end of the 30 days of Ramadan, it’s Eid-al-Fitr! This is the celebration
where people go to the morning prayer, visit friends and families, cook a ton of food, and appreciate the ac-
complishments you’ve achieved as a Muslim. It’s one of Muslims’ favorite days. Muslims from all around the
world wear their traditional clothing from their home country and celebrate life! Ramadan Kareem!

The Panther Press: The Voice of Career High School

The Panther Press is a team of students dedicated to getting the truth out to the public. We are determined to
give the people of Hill Regional Career High School a respectful voice.

2018-2019 Staff Writers

Adam Ahmad Rizal Tyanna Evans Jervone Myers
Veronica Borowski Kabryah Hamlet Franchezca Pérez
Michelle Browne Anthony Harris Beverly Rodriguez
Emily Cervantes Andy Herrera Angelina Saunders
Stacey Correa Yuliarys Lebron Justin Threet
Justyce Davis Jonazia McKinnie Valeria Torres Romero
Astou Diallo Lesly Mellado Joanna Wypasek

Faculty Advisor: Rose Mur phy

Visit us online at careerpantherpress.weebly.com. Contact us at [email protected].

2

Dostie Inspires Students, Continued

After leaving the military, Dostie was inspired to share
her story. At first, she doubted that anyone would want to
read her work, but she kept writing anyway. In college,
she continued to write. Writing, said Dostie, “helped
build my confidence that I do, indeed, have a story worth
telling and that people might actually want to read. By the
end of my Masters, I felt this was worth something, if
even to me, because writing [my story] had made it easier
for me to talk about my traumas and be open about my
experiences.”
Dostie’s experiences in the military were complicated,
but she also had good memories. These experiences are
part of her and who she is now. “I have some very good
memories from my time in [the military] and there are
great people in the services” said Dostie, but “there cer-
tainly darker parts of the military. I would want anyone
who joins to know their rights-- they have a right to speak
up if they're made uncomfortable or feel unsafe.”
Students at the book club event felt Dostie’s story was
powerful and important. However, it is unclear if the
book will ever be taught in high schools. Librarian Mrs.
Wilson stated that “there are certainly some graphic de-
scriptions of Ms. Dostie’s life, so that might be a ques-
tion, but it’s a story that would be riveting for our stu-
dents.” Ms. Dostie agreed, saying, “I would honestly be
shocked if this book was taught in high schools. It's dark,
violent, graphic, and brutal at times. I think there are per-
haps parts that could be taught, but it’s strong content...I
suppose I would leave it up to the individual teachers if
they wanted to teach it in high school-- they know best Dostie and her new book, Formation. (Photo/Marilyn Wilson)
what their students can handle, and who am I to tell stu-
dents they're not mature enough for the content when I
joined the Army at their age and was off into basic at the end of my senior year?” Surprisingly, the event at
Career was Ms. Dostie’s first reading. She was turned down by two universities. “I don't know if this is a case
of universities coddling their students too much, or of New Haven recognizing what their students can handle
and relate to.”
Joanna Wypasek, a junior who attended the event, felt that Ms. Dostie’s story should be told. “I think she’s
really strong, and she’s very empowering. Something really bad happened to her, and instead of grieving on it,
she made it into something else that made her successful.”
Ms. Dostie is a role model. By telling her heartbreaking story, she spreads inspiration for all women, whether
they have been through a similar situation or not. She teaches readers that despite difficulties, one can always
move forward. She makes her voice heard by telling her own story. Instead of letting herself be victimized, she
gives courage to women that they, too, can raise their voices.

3

Seniors Present at Capstone Expo

Lesly Mellado
Friday May 31 was a proud day for Career: the Senior Capstone Expo was held at the Toyota Oakdale Theater
in Wallingford, CT. At the Expo, some of our Career seniors presented what they achieved through their cap-
stone projects during their last year of school. Adam Ahmad-Rizal, Dianalys Bonilla, Sharnasia Booker, Cha-
mera Clark, Davionne Matthews, Leslie Mendez, and Magaly Perez were all selected to present their projects.
During the Expo, students were exposed to a variety of capstone topics. They also activities where they could
enjoy time bonding with friends: foosball where it could get competitive, a free photo booth which was en-
joyed by all, a soccer goal game in which you could see classmates’ skills, and finally Silent Disco where you
could put on headphones and to dance to pop, country, or Hispanic/Latino music.
During the Expo, students learned about many unique and fascinating capstone projects. One group studied
bees and organized a queen swap. After studying requeening, they learned that a specific queen was better suit-
ed for our northeastern climate. The result was that 1 of 3 hives accepted a new queen. Another team studied
stress behavior in a multi-species vivarium. They conducted scientific research. Their school had an unused
terrarium, which the students turned into a multispecies enclosure. They watched species’ stress behaviors de-
crease from being in isolation to being in the enclosure.
“I enjoyed going to the Expo,” said junior Destiny Maldonado. “I feel like it opened our eyes and minds to dif-
ferent ideas, where nothing is a dumb topic. It was good opportunity. Having this trip made me see how people
worked really hard to make their projects possible and not a last-minute thing-- for example, some students
were starting from the summer and it took them months to finish, which only taught me that I should be pre-
pared and start my project early so I can do a good job.” Maldonado will be completing her own capstone pro-
ject next year.
Another junior, Franchezca Pérez, liked the wide variety of the projects. “There were many creative ideas, and
they were interesting to learn about! Not only that, but the activities were fun and we enjoyed our time.”
This field trip got students exposed to interesting and different types of projects, all of which showcased crea-
tivity and learning. While all students enjoyed a day at the Expo, the day ended with an especially proud mo-
ment for one Career student. Senior Dianalys Bonilla won an award for doing a exceptional job on her cap-
stone project about student rights. Congratulations, Dianalys!

Career students at the Capstone
Expo in Wallingford. (Photo/
Facebook.com, Hill Regional
Career HS)

4

Challenges Bring Rewards in Health Career
Pathways II

Beverly Rodriguez
Health instructor Ms. Zajac managed to bring a Medi-
cal Assistant certification class to Career for the first
time this school year. The class, Health Career Path-
ways 2, is demanding but rewarding. In order to get in-
to this class, students must complete the Health Career
Pathways 1 course first.
This year, only 13 students took this course. It was one
school year consisting of a lot of hard work, com-
plaints, stress, but in the end, success. The class had a
100% passing rate on the Medical Assistant certifica-
tion exam, and all 13 students are now certified as a
Medical Assistant. They can actually go out to a physi-
cian's office, hospital, outpatient clinic, or any other
healthcare facility and work there.
Medical assistants work under supervision of a physi-
cian. They are said to be the physician’s “third arm” at
the healthcare facility. They also may help other health
care providers at the healthcare facility.
Medical assistants have both clinical and administration duties. Clinical duties are based upon what each hos-
pital needs them to do. For example, if a patient is admitted for several days at the healthcare facility, medical
assistants often have to help patients with their daily activities, such as bathing, toileting, grooming, and other
daily activities they may need. Administrative duties for medical assistants include answering phones, collect-
ing patient information, handling patient charts, and billing.
Now that these 13 students have a medical assistant certification as seniors in high school, they can immediate-
ly go out of high school and work at a healthcare facility. This certification could even be more beneficial to
someone who may want to further their education in the health path. Working as a medical assistant, perhaps
in college, would be an invaluable way to build experience and foster relationships with people in the field you
may want to study. By working as a medical assistant, students will be able to network a lot. Knowing the
right people can really get you to many different places. Having these type of contacts can also help you when
needed.
For those students who are willing to take this challenge on, some of the students from Health Career Path-
ways 2 have a few words of inspirational advice. Senior Kimberly Sacaza, advises students that “although you
will find yourself in the verge of giving up, always remember why you are doing it, and each step you take is
closer to your goal.” Senior Margarita Ortega suggests for future students willing to take on this challenge to
“never look at this class as a class, look at it as a challenge and as something you want to do. It could be the
first door open in a million ways.”
As for the challenging aspects of the class, struggles are a part of life. Struggles are what make you work hard-
er, leading you to something better. A major struggle students faced in this class was “trying to figure out my
study habits and what helped me to study,” said senior Taylor Knox. “Keeping up with the work was one of
my main struggles, but my classmates and our teacher, Ms. Zajac really motivated me, as well as one another.
We supported each other, like a family,” added senior Yaira Roman.

5

Newport Entrances Career

Joanna Wypasek

(Photo/Kristen Grandfield Schimanski)
On May 31st, 2019, a select group of enthusiastic juniors from Hill Regional Career High School, all currently
enrolled in one of Mrs. Grandfield-Schimanski’s courses, were given the invaluable opportunity to travel to
Newport, Rhode Island, a unique coastal town that is known for its grand historical and architectural signifi-
cance. Throughout the day, students enjoyed learning about the history of the Breakers mansion, a vast build-
ing that portrays the architectural and artistic styles of the late 19th century, and roaming around the small
shops that showcase the spirit of Newport.
As the students began arriving to school that cloudy morning, the cafeteria of Hill Regional Career High
School buzzed with energy as eager students began to anticipate the day ahead of them. Junior Sofia Soriano
said, “I didn’t know what to expect because from pictures the mansions look really nice, but I didn’t know if it
was going to be fancy or a regular house.” After the infectious positive vibes quickly spread to everyone, the
students, as well as Mrs. Grandfield-Schimanski and Ms. Westefeld, boarded the small coach bus, only to un-
expectedly find that the number of students exceeded the number of seats. As a result of this unfortunate mix
up on the part of the bus company, some students were not able to join the rest of their classmates on the trip.
Although the disappointment of this occurrence was evident throughout the bus and its downsized group,
many students still maintained a shining positivity, which later spread to all the trip-goers upon arriving to the
first stop: the Breakers mansion.
At the first glance of this enormous mansion, many students remarked on its grandeur and elegance. Junior
Seynabou Ndiaye commented, “[the mansion] was breathtaking and eye-catching.” After entering the extrava-
gant gates that led us into the lawn of the historic site, the eyes of a multitude of students became wide as they
took in the beauty of this mansion. Upon entering this luxurious home, everyone was given a headset attached
to a phone that led each entranced student and chaperone on an individualized tour throughout the heavily
adorned and detailed mansion and its many wonders. Throughout the tour, the history of each of the unique
rooms, such as that of the grand ballroom and the music room, was evident through the grand furniture and
decorations upon the walls, ceilings, and floors, which were detailed with images of symbolic dolphins and
seashells. Ndiaye mentioned, “The chandeliers were pretty.” When asked about her experience in this historic
site, junior Gulbahar Erkmen stated, “I love stuff that is vintage, and that is what the mansion was all about.”

6

After the informative audio tours were all completed and a bit of money was spent on purchases from the gift
shop, all of the students gathered at the back of the immense mansion, an area that leads to an expansive lawn
and “porch” that overlooked the beaming Atlantic Ocean, to finally take many individual and group pictures
that captured the everlasting memories made in Newport.
With the invaluable tour and sightseeing finally complete, everyone piled on the bus hungrily awaiting their
arrival in downtown Newport, which was filled with a multitude of shops and restaurants that were mainly
lined with cobbled roads. All were given the opportunity to independently guide themselves around the down-
town to get lunch and shop for anything that they pleased. Erkmen enthused that her favorite aspect of this trip
was “being able to freely roam around” without constant adult supervision. Ndiaye agreed, adding that she en-
joyed “being able to explore Newport for ourselves with our friends.” Upon returning to the bus, new sweat-
shirts, jackets, and t-shirts that read “Newport” were happily sported by many students, evident that many stu-
dents had quite an enjoyable, memorable time with their friends.
On the smooth bus ride home, many were able to reflect over their day and obtain some much needed sleep.
Junior Julius Pugh said, “It was a great bonding experience with everyone. Hanging out with Lesly [Mellado]
and Kenneth [Padilla] was really fun.” Similar comments were shared by many individuals as well.
An immense thank you to Mrs. Grandfield-Schimanski and all others who organized this fabulous trip! It was
truly an adventure to remember.

Phones in Class: Helpful or Harmful?

Jervone Myers
Across the United States, many teachers and administrators don't want phones to be allowed in schools. Cer-
tain districts or schools may feel as if phones are a distraction. However, many people believe that students can
use phones in an educational way.
Some students believe phones can be used for educational reasons. For example, students may need the inter-
net to do research, so it could be helpful if students are allowed to have phones. Senior Kyshawn Greens says
that “a lot of things are on the internet now, so you’re going have to use your phone. It’s like another source.”
All smartphones can help students get on the internet, which can help students with a lot of reading. Students
could use computers in classrooms, but what if they’re not available? Phones are always available. If everyone
had a phone, they would be able to access educational materials. Phones can also be used to do group activities
and work on projects.
Some teachers also believe that using phones for education is possible. Biology teacher Mr. McTague states
that phones can be a distraction or an asset. “Some schools collect [phones] at the beginning of the period, and
if they’re going to use them for educational purposes, they'll pass them back out. I’d be a favor at collecting
them at the beginning the period. I know it’s not popular with the kids, but it’s just for teachers constantly bat-
tling with it. The temptation for kids to use them— it’s too much.” Some students at Career may believe the
same as Mr. McTague, who says, “Phones can be used for educational purposes. I wouldn't say they should be,
though.”
Personally, I believe that phones can be an addiction at times. McTague agrees, saying, “students can’t be re-
lied on to use [phones] for educational purposes. It’s easier to be on another thing, like YouTube or social me-
dia.” Other students also believe phones can be addicting. Senior Greene says, “a lot of people can’t be without
their phone through the day at all. Phones are a distraction for kids. It’s technology, so it’s going be addicting.”
Another senior, Mohamed Bathiam says phones are “definitely” addicting. “I know some people who are even
almost likely to get fired, because they can’t stay away from their phone to do their job.”
Phones can be looked at as big problem. Regardless of whether phones can be helpful in school, we need to
start by finding how to break the addiction so they can be used as an educational tool.

7

LGBTQ Students Need Support

Justyce Davis
LGBTQ students today need help, support, and love at school. Schools need to help out LGBTQ students by
supporting, them rather than trying to bring them down, making them feel comfortable enough to want to stay
in the same school. There are many ways schools can make LGBTQ students feel more supported. Schools can
do this by having an assembly talking about LGBTQ pride, just like a Black History Month or Hispanic Histo-
ry Month assembly. Schools should have a dedicated counselor, psychologist, or social worker who is com-
fortable and caring about these issues so students have someone to go to. They should also have a club such as
a GSA, so students can express themselves and feel comfortable to talk around other people. Lastly, teachers
should encourage students and teach them about LGBTQ people in history and literature.
It is true that some LGBTQ students just don’t care what anyone has to say about them, but some do. Both op-
tions are understandable. Students who don't care what others think might feel that not caring takes off stress,
because once they show that they don’t care, the other students might not care either. Other students feel like
they have to care about what others feel, which is understandable. But regardless, no school should encourage
judgement of a student because of their sexuality. If that's the case, then what’s the point of schools telling stu-
dents to get motivated and to do whatever makes them happy? Schools should just really focus on the main
thing: to make sure their students are supported, happy, and fulfilled in their goals.
LGBTQ students should feel encouraged to embrace their identity more and show their schools that you can be
whatever you feel is best for you. Being gay has nothing to do with anyone else’s opinion. It has to do with
how you love yourself-- and if it makes students happy, that’s what they should embrace.
LGBTQ students at Career: stay positive and stay true to yourself. Embrace your identity and what makes you
you. Happy Pride!

Public Health Emergency: Senioritis

Kabryah Hamlet
Most know spring is the season for allergies, rain, and sunshine, but it also breeds senioritis, the unmistakable
contagion that causes lack of motivation, irritability, and great impatience. It often infects seniors in both high
school and college, between the months of April and June, who yearn for things like prom or graduation. Sen-
ioritis marks the end of a chapter and the promise of new beginnings.
Senioritis, as fake as some may think it is, proves to be a real nonfatal affliction for most graduating students.
Originating in the early 20th century, the term is used mainly in the US and Canada.
After speaking to a few seniors here at Career, the itis seems to have taken effect upon entry into senior year,
but the symptoms grew much stronger by April. Senior David Hawkins said he had an early onset of symp-
toms, starting to slow down in the second marking period, and his teachers were concerned for his progression
throughout the rest of this year. He noticed that his grades were going down, but he didn’t feel motivated to do
his work until Fs popped up on his PowerSchool. As Hawkins knows, there’s nothing like a failing grade to
put a fire under your ass.
Some cures that have been discovered for senioritis are support from family and friends, the need to graduate,
and help from teachers. When students have someone who is constantly motivating them to keep going, they
feel like they have a person to lean on. Students could also use parental guidance in concerns to how they may
be feeling or the work that needs to get done. For teachers, making the work interesting and flexible is a great
help because it allows students the chance to truly get involved with something for the last couple of weeks
before finals as they seek a cure to this temporary but serious condition.

8

Pregnant in Prison

Jonazia McKinnie
You’re 9 months pregnant. Any day now, your
beautiful child will enter the world. It’s been a
long nine months. You’re aching, drowsy, and
tired. You have your baby’s name picked out in
your mind, but you’ve kept it to yourself. You
want to get to know your baby before you give
him his first gift: his name.
Three days later, the first pains of labor shoot
through your back. You know this is the time. As
you call for help, you can only pray that a guard
will notice your cries. You try to crawl over to
your barred door, but your shackled ankles are
holding you back. Panicked, in pain, and in chains,
you scream as you pray your child will be safe—
even if you aren’t.
This story is fiction, but it happens to women in
the US every day. Shockingly, there are 111,616 (Photo/Arkivji Malta)
pregnant women incarcerated in the United States.
A study of selected states found that 3.8 percent of newly-admitted women were pregnant. In those states in
one year, incarcerated women had 753 live births, 46 miscarriages, 4 stillbirths, and 11 abortions.
Tammy Jackson is one woman who has suffered from lack of care while in jail. In an interview with the
ACLU, Tammy Jackson explained that it took hours for corrections officers to reach a doctor, who said he’d
check on Jackson when he came into work later that morning. By the time he arrived at 10 AM, Jackson had
delivered her baby alone in her jail cell. Many people don't understands how scary situations like this can be
for a new mom, or even moms of older children.
“Being in jail while carrying a child is one of the scariest things someone could ever do. Though I wasn’t in
jail my whole pregnancy, I feared that I may have had to have my child in that terrible place,” says Lisa Wat-
son, a former inmate who was incarcerated at the time of pregnancy.
Real women go through the horrific experience of bringing their beautiful baby into the world, sometimes un-
fortunately in a cell. There are some things people don’t realize. For one, jails are absolutely not very sanitary,
which can potentially cause health problems with the patients and children. For another thing, many incarcer-
ated women have even delivered their babies while shackled to the bed, which is medically extremely unsafe.
It is time to make a change. Women with children in jail should always get the care they need and appropriate
attention. In a sense, they should be prioritized— as should their babies. If it was your family member, would
you want them to go through this?
It is time to take a stand! Speak out. Do whatever it takes to get women better care so they can get appropriate
care, give birth in a hospital, and receive treatment in a safe and sanitary place.

9

Why Grandparents are Awesome

Tyanna Evans
Remember those weekends when you were dying to stay
over at grandma and grandad’s house? The biggest meals
ever, endless desserts, Grandad's funny stories, and going
to bed late? Me too. Many kids enjoyed staying with their
grandparents growing up. But what is it about grandparents
that children adore? I loved being with my grandparents,
receiving the biggest hugs, and playing all day with them.
Iseeme.com posted a blog titled “Reasons Why Kids Need
Their Grandparents,” which states that “research is increas-
ingly proving that children who enjoy active relationships
with their grandparents reap multiple benefits, from gain-
ing a sense of family history to being happier than those
who grow up without access to their parents’ parents.”
This is one of the many reasons why grandparents are awe-
some and why it’s important to have a relationship with
them. “I love my grandparents so much,” Neuton William
from Michigan said. “Without grandparents to pass on
their wisdom and fun stories to tell us, we wouldn’t proba-
bly know much about history. Our elders have lived so
long throughout wars, great and tragic events that hap-
pened, and also have experienced those memories.”

“Grandparents know so much. Without them, we probably wouldn’t know our history,” Tyeasha Lane said.
Considerable.com agrees, saying that “[grandparents] are walking history books. Most grandparents can re-
member when televisions had antennas, cars had fins, and phones had cords. When they take kids to a science
or history museum, they make exhibits come to life.”
When the kids of 2019 took Instagram poll about their attitudes towards their grandparents, 70% said they
liked being at their grandparent’s house more than their own. and 30% said they’d rather be home. Unfortu-
nately, not all children enjoy being at grandma or grandpa’s house. An anonymous source said, “I love my
grandparents, but thought they were boring… but I loved my grandma’s food!”
This is a common theme among grandkids— even if we didn’t like being at our grandparent’s house or
thought they were boring, we can’t deny how good the home-cooked meals are. The exchange goes both ways,
with grandparents appreciating their grandchildren as well. New Haven citizen and grandma, 77-year-old Essie
Lane said jokingly, “I love my grandchildren, I learn a lot from them! Especially with the new technologically,
trends, and the weird clothes you guys wear now.”
Not only is it important that we need our grandparents, but also our grandparents need us. Many people think
the elderly are rude, negative, and impatient, but really all they need is that special relationship to keep them
going. Studies have proven that the elderly enjoy relationships more with grandchildren and engage more with
the youth than they do with older people.
We should always appreciate our grandparents, their funny and wise stories they have to tell, the sense of his-
tory they provide us, the love they bring, and the good food they make. So next time you see grandma and
grandpa, just talk to them— and let them know how awesome they are.

10

Know the Truth About Vaccines

Beverly Rodriguez
Measles. Smallpox. Diphtheria. Polio. These are some of the dreaded diseases that once struck fear in to par-
ents’ hearts. These diseases used to kill thousands of people each year, often with horrific pain and suffering.
When vaccines were made available for these diseases, it was a scientific miracle. Families were no longer los-
ing their precious children to these painful and terrifying conditions.
Shockingly, these diseases are making a comeback. Since October, there have been 423 measles cases con-
firmed in New York alone. Most of the cases reported are from the Brooklyn neighborhoods of Williamsburg
and Borough Park. The northern New York suburb of Rockland County has reported more than 200 cases.
The local officials have declared public health emergencies in both New York City as well as in Rockland
County. The city has declared an arraignment to those not following the vaccination requirements. Even some
of the ultra-orthodox Jewish schools have been closed down due to some unvaccinated students attending
class. There is now a vaccination requirement in Brooklyn due to its recent outbreak. Every adult and child
who lives, works, or resides in selected ZIP code areas and has not yet received the measles, mumps and rubel-
la (MMR) vaccine is required to get it.
Many parents who do not wish to vaccinate their kids due to a religious exemption is a major factor that could
have caused this outbreak. This puts other children at risk; for example, some children are too young to be vac-
cinated, and are in danger from unvaccinated kids. One woman, Amber Gorrow, was interviewed by the
Washington Post. Gorrow stated that she is afraid to leave her house with her infant son because she lives in
the midst of Washington state’s measles outbreak. Her eight-week-old son is too young to get his first measles
shot, “putting him at risk for the highly contagious respiratory virus, which can be fatal in small children.”
The best way to protect your child is by vaccinating them. With vaccination, your child can have immunization
against many harmful diseases. Many of those diseases that once would harm people, including your loved
ones, are now preventable with these vaccinations. Vaccinations are considered safe and very effective. They
are reviewed by many scientists and healthcare professionals very thoroughly. Immunization helps everyone.
Why does everyone who can get vaccinated need to get vaccinated? Without most people getting vaccinated,
we would have no herd immunity. Herd immunity is defined as “the resistance to the spread of a contagious
disease within a population that results if a sufficiently high proportion of individuals are immune to the dis-
ease, especially through vaccination.” If many people get vaccinated, there is not much risk to those who can’t
get vaccinated (young children, people with compromised immune systems, etc.). If many people don’t get
vaccinated, those vulnerable people are in danger.
Here at Hill Regional Career Magnet High School, we have many science/health teachers who are aware of
what vaccines do and why they are important. Our great Anatomy and Physiology and biology teacher, Mr.
Terence McTague, believes there should be consequences for people who don’t vaccinate. “I think the parents
of children who are not vaccinated should get in trouble for being the cause of the spread of measles,” says
McTague. He also confirms to us that “people who don’t vaccinate their children because of autism, seizures,
and everything else that is being said without being proven --so it is not true-- think they have all the
knowledge about a vaccine when they don’t.”
McTague is horrified that children today are contracting measles. “Measles is a thing of the past, and measles
in the year 2019 is absurd.” This year, he made sure to give enough knowledge to his students about vaccines
to fight made-up information. “I felt like I spent much more time this year to make sure that when my kids
graduate and they have to vaccinate their own children, they are aware of why it is very important to to vac-
cinate their kids,” said McTague.
Parents and guardians who are not completely aware of what a vaccine does should look more into it and get
their information from reliable scientific sources. Preventing your child from getting this vaccine doesn’t only
affect them. It affects everyone around the child, putting many innocent lives at risk.

11

Getting Politically Involved

Justin Threet
Let’s say you are 16, and your 18th birthday falls on November 20th, 2020. You are very politically aware,
and understand what is going on in the United States. You desperately search for ways and loopholes you can
use to let you vote. All this searching, but you know that due to your age, there's nothing you can do about it.
You can’t vote in the next presidential election.
I know how you feel— I’m in this predicament myself. My 18th birthday is on November 26, 2020. However,
as I’ve found, there are ways to be politically involved regardless of your age.
First things first, you should definitely be informed on politics, both locally and nationally. To be able to speak
on topics that are complex and are on an adult-level tier of conversation requires background knowledge.
Without this background knowledge, your opinions will sound like gibberish and will be frowned upon. It
doesn't help that adults already have a bias towards teenagers speaking on topics that they feel we know noth-
ing about (racial issues, homosexuality, abortion, and of course, politics). Having well-extended background
information will help tremendously in your arguments and will help you be well-informed. Remember: facts
over fiction always. Plus, the adults’ reactions are always priceless when they see you know what you’re talk-
ing about!
Another thing you can do is attend local town hall meetings. These meetings are open to the public. Town hall
meetings are basically like question and answer sessions with government officials. Going to these meetings
gives you an opportunity to get the direct answers you may have been searching for. If you choose, to attend
the only thing it will cost you is your time. To find where you can attend a town hall meeting near you, go to
your town’s government website. In New Haven, this is newhavenct.gov
Another way to be politically involved is to use talents that you already have. A lot of people have artistic tal-
ents that are amazing. Sometimes, people don’t like to listen to a political conversation because it can sound
confusing. Using your artistic skills to create things that represent your opinion, such as a poem, will gather
attention from of a load of people who didn't understand before. Some people can make comedic satire about
ongoing politics to offer new thoughts in the form of comedy. Comedic satire can help someone who doesn't
understand what's happening in the world of politics; they can now comprehend it more easily. Lastly, if you
are good at speaking in public, you can write and deliver speeches. Posting these artistic talents to social media
offers a chance for you to go viral, letting hundreds of thousands of people listen to your message.
Don’t let being too young to vote stop you from becoming politically involved. 2020 will be here sooner than
you think.

Get Involved: Who to Contact
New Haven Democrats New Haven Republicans
Vincent Mauro Jeff Weiss
[email protected] [email protected]

12

The Plastic Pullulate Problem

Veronica Borowski

We have approximately 12 years to act (Photo/Randy Olson)
on climate change before it's too late.
Recently, a lot of attention has been
gathering around the well-being of our
planet. Whales have been washing up
on shores with stomach stuffed full of
pounds of plastic and filth. Certain spe-
cies of giraffes have been put on the
endangered list this year. The Spix's
Macaw, famous for inspiring the movie
“Rio,” are now extinct in the wild. Be-
tween 4.8 and 12.7 million tons of plas-
tic enters the ocean each year, accord-
ing to figures published in the journal
Science in 2015, and the Great Pacific
Garbage Patch, made of plastic and
floating trash (found halfway between
Hawaii and California), has grown to
more than 600,000 square miles. To
give you a better idea of how large the
patch of trash is, it is about twice the
size of Texas.

Career sophomore Melissa Mellado will not stand by as the Earth suffers. She plans on starting a recycling
club in the near future, specifically at the beginning of next year. She is starting the club because she wants to
motivate the school to start to recycle. She wants to bring awareness to both teachers and students on why and
how they can recycle better. Some of the activities she plans on doing with the club are going to places such as
downtown, beaches, etc. to pick up trash and recycle. Not only will people be helping the planet, but for peo-
ple who need community service hours in order to graduate, they can get them through participating in the re-
cycling club activities.

One event that happened a few months ago, concerning the Notre-Dame Cathedral in Paris. A structure fire
broke out beneath the roof of the cathedral. Controversy was started when over 1 billion dollars was donated
towards the “rebuilding” of Notre Dame. Many were quick to point out that with the same amount of money,
we could easily clean up the Great Pacific Garbage Patch.

This shows that humanity has the resources to change our fate, but we choose not to. Humanity only acts when
it affects them directly. Right now, many people don't see the effects of plastic as a huge problem because they
aren't affected as deeply as others are, especially animals.

If everyone changes at least one thing in their life— even if it is a little thing, such as using stainless steel
straws instead of plastic, or just being more eco-conscious as consumers, it can make a major different in our
environment. Each year, an estimated 18 billion pounds of plastic enter the world's oceans, or more than 1.5
million pounds per hour. Thanks to the many programs created over the years, many companies changing their
supplies and products to be more eco-friendly. I hope that in the future, companies become more aware of the
fate of our environment and change the way they make products. It is up to us to take care of our home and
keep it clean.

13

Nervous About College? Find an Expert.

Michelle Browne
As we approach June 14th --the day seniors have been yearning for since the first day of school-- with excite-
ment, we realize that our seniors are now closing a chapter and entering a new one completely foreign to them.
Yes, it is all excitement from the beginning with the FASFA completion, gathering letters of recommendation,
and ultimately choosing a college, but now that moving on is finally a reality, oftentimes there is no longer ex-
citement. Seniors are now filled with anxiety, fear, and confusion regarding what's to come. Everyone states If
they only knew what they knew now, things would be easier. If only we could supply a cheatbook to each new
chapter of our lives just to soften the blow. Luckily, regarding college, there is a cheat book.
My mother gave me the books Quick and Dirty Secrets of College Success and Everything Y ou Ever Wanted
to Know About College, both by Dr. Boyce Watkins. My mother wanted to impart some wisdom to me so that
I’d have more insight about college life. I don't enjoy reading regularly; however, because these books are
about something that is steadily approaching me in life, I have been hooked.
Dr. Boyce Watkins is an African-American author and world-renowned scholar at Syracuse University. In my
favorite book, Everything Y ou Ever Wanted to Know About College, Watkins breaks the book up into 15
chapters. The chapters cover topics such as where to get money for college, balancing life and academics, and
sexual health. I encourage seniors entering college, as well as upcoming seniors, to buy this book. I have
learned so much regarding college just from the first chapter alone and I want to spread some wisdom.

1. Don't overload on classes at first, since you want to spend some time getting used to college
2. Getting into college isn't the same as graduating.
3. The “get out quick” student knows that summer classes are a good way to knock out a lot of the re-
quirements for graduation
4. Teachers sometimes let the little secrets for the exams slip out during office hours.
5. Stay on top of those absent-minded professors.
6. If you find yourself sexually active, then make sure that you get an STI test every six months. These
are usually free at your college’s clinic.
7. Date rape happens all the time, and usually between people who know each other.
8. Your coaches may not love you the way they say they do. If they say that they care about you, it's prob-
ably not that they care about you, it's that they care about something that you can do for them.
9. Never give up.

Enhanced Beauty

Yuliarys Lebron
Woman have it drilled into them from a young age that to be successful in jobs, dating, and forming friend-
ships with popular girls, they need to pretty. An estimated 44 percent of woman do not like to leave their
homes without makeup, believing if they show their natural face, they won't be able to accomplish certain
things and they will be treated differently. Though some women do wear makeup simply because they like it,
no one should feel pressured to look a certain way to exist in public.
I recognize that we've grown to believe covering our “flaws” is not preferred, but also a necessity each day we
cross the front door. If you ever had a huge zit on the middle of your nose and you could hide it, would you? I
would. I personally invest in skincare so that I can get rid of zits because I have combination skin, but I admit
that when I am dolled up, I feel pretty and empowered. Makeup is a boost of confidence for me, but also some-
thing that I like to do.
Girls typically wear makeup for a few simple reasons. It can make them feel beautiful and more confident,
help them feel empowered, and enhance heir features. Some people like the art behind putting on makeup and
all the different kinds of looks there are to do. Makeup has been a form of self-expression for a very long time
now. People use makeup like an artist uses paint. Even having a bare face is a form of self-expression and is a
way for people to express themselves using their face.

14

Make up can be a good way to empower yourself even with a casual outfit. Some lipstick alone can boost your
self esteem, if you enjoy that look. Makeup can also make you look more polished for work or business.
Makeup can also be a boost of confidence when you're not feeling yourself in the morning.
Honestly, I feel confident with or without makeup, but I can admit makeup for me is definitely a boost. Some
women do feel better with makeup and some feel completely confident without it. The best part about makeup
is that its always a choice. If a woman feels more confident wearing it, she can do so. In the end, makeup can
make a difference in physical attractiveness and self-esteem, but that can only take one so far. Physical beauty
might have an advantage for short-term relationships, but people seeking a long-term connection prioritize in-
ner beauty.

Getting Prepared For College

Justyce Davis
Many of us love imagining our future lives in college,
but to get prepared for college, you need to make sure
that you’ve done everything you needed to do in high
school first. While you’re in high school, you need to at
least have good grades and a good GPA. I say this be-
cause colleges want to see academic commitment in high
schools. Some colleges have a requirement of a 3.0 or
4.0 GPA, and if you want to get in to your dream school,
you need to work hard to meet those requirements.
As a high school student, you should make sure to visit
some colleges to get an experience of how it’s going to
feel or be on the campus. Visiting a school can help a lot
for students to get prepared, because the college tour
guides can tell high schoolers about what goes on at the

college, what you can study there, what programs are available, and what you need to know before you come
to their college.
From my experience as a junior, it’s very important to be active in seeking what you need in order to graduate
and move on to the next step in life which is going to college. You have to take responsibility, speak up, and
advocate for yourself. For instance, you should speak to your guidance counselor who was there for you all
these years and speak to them about the colleges you want to apply to so they can give you an idea of what
steps to take and how to approach your college essay. You should also apply for internships; if you can find
one, it will help out a lot when applying for college. Including an internship on your college resume is not only
impressive, it also gives you great experience. Also, it sounds basic, but make sure you are on track to pass
your classes to graduate and fulfill the requirements of your chosen college. Have everything in order before
you send out your resume.
High school students should also seek out older students to get advice. I asked my older cousin how her col-
lege application process was, and she said it was stressful for her. For each college, she needed a to fulfill re-
quirements that she really didn’t have from high school. She was stressed, but she kept looking until she found
the right college that had everything she needed. It took time, but she found the right fit.
All I’m saying is to make sure your grades are good and make sure you ask for help. Speak to teachers, coun-
selors, and relatives. They can be serious help and can give you some advice on what to prepare for when you
go off for college. Once you have all the basic requirements done, you can focus on impressing the school you
applied to. Your school will see what type of student you are and decide if you’re the type of student they want
in their school. Do all you can to make sure you’re presenting yourself at your best.

15

Skincare with Michelle: New Products

Michelle Browne

As you all know, skincare is something I take very seriously. Buying new products and testing their compati-
bility on my skin is something of a hobby for me. I wanted to update everyone on new skin care products I
have been using lately. In the past few weeks a lot of products have caught my attention in addition have
worked effectively. I was pleasantly surprised that I have come in contact with so many new products that I'd
be able to rave about. Let's get right to it !

Serums: en
Both of my two new favorite serums are by the company
Glow Recipe. Glow Recipe is a company started by two wom-
of Asian descent, who pride themselves in cultivating natural,
harsh free, beauty products. The first serum I’ll be talking
about is the Ginger + Vitamin C Serum Shot ($20.00). This
serum is made organically specifically for brightening dark
spots and uneven skin tone. This product incorporates ginger,
which works to neutralize environmental aggressors and re-
vive dull skin. It also has Vitamin C, a powerful antioxidant
that helps even out skin tone and brighten for radiant skin. I
use this product both AM and PM, following up with some
aloe. I really love this product because it is extremely moistur-
izing. I saw results immediately.

The next serum from Glow Recipe is the Beet + Vitamin A In
Serum Shot ($20.00). I bought this product because as the
temperature rises, my pores become more and more exposed.
This product was made to refine pores as well as smooths
away rough skin. This serum includes beets that harness a va-
riety of vitamins, leaving the skin softer and visibly smoother.
addition, Vitamin A that is rich in antioxidants that helps to
minimize the signs of aging.

Masks:
I have been using Freemans Cleansing Apple Cider Vinegar Clay mask + Scrub ($12.98). I specifically use
this product when my skin is feeling dull. It targets more than one thing on your skin to cure. This mask was
made to instantly tone the skin, purifying and mattifying the skin for a flawless complexion. I love this msk
because it is a “multitasking mask,” meaning it is a foaming mask that cleans, scrubs, tones, and absorbs oil on
the skin. Apple cider vinegar is specifically good for the skin because it tones naturally, as well as balances the
skin's PH level.

My next new favorite mask is the Sunday Riley's Saturn Sulfur Acne Treatment Mask. I was hesitant to buy
this mask, firstly because of the price and secondly because it looks a little different from all the masks I usual-
ly buy. I don't have extreme problems with acne, but I wanted a product I could use as a spot treatment in place
of tea tree oil. Tea tree oil is strong, and after a while it does burn my skin. This mask is medicated 10% with
sulfur, which dries and clears up acne while preventing new blemishes from forming. This mask is supposed to
be used as a spot treatment, but I use it as a regular mask. It is not harsh on my face in the slightest and works
wonders. After a night of using this, all of my pimples are dried up. The 10% sulfur penetrates pores to dry up
all forms of acne such as blockages, congested pores, inflammatory acne, hormonal acne, as well as rosacea.
The 4% niacinamide helps to clear impurities, reduce excess oil, and soothe the appearance of redness without
over drying.

16

How to Survive Finals Week

Joanna Wypasek
With the 2018-19 school year slowly winding down, students are happily beginning to plan their summers,
getting ready to finally relax.. However, before these exciting festivities can begin, students must endure one
of the most stressful weeks of the school year: finals! Although these exams may be huge stressors in your
life, you can ease the stress of them before an excessive amount of stress becomes evident. For instance, de-
veloping a simple studying plan or getting enough sleep are some factors in exam taking that should be seri-
ously taken into consideration. Take a look at the following studying tips so that finals can pass like a breeze:

1. Plan a schedule.
By planning which days and at what time one will study, one will not only feel more organized, but
also assured that the specified time they set aside will be enough to study and review. By doing speci-
fied tasks everyday over a period of time, one will not have to tirelessly cram the night before the test,
which increases confidence about performance on these tough exams.

2. Form a study group.
When reviewing over a variety of concepts with other peers, one may become motivated through their
peers’ evident strive to reinforce concepts not only within their own mind, but within the minds of
those studying with them. Junior Valeria Torres agrees with this study tip, stating, “I like studying
with my friends because then it doesn’t make it so boring.”

3. Find a relaxing, quiet place to study.
By stealing one’s attention away from their studying materials, distractions impair the brain from fo-
cusing on the material that one needs to learn. To counter this irksome problem, one should locate and
utilize a comfortable, quiet place to study, such as the public library, where troublesome distractions
are minimized and the brain is sharp and ready to focus only on the specific material.

4. Take breaks between studying sessions.
Contrary to popular belief, elongated studying sessions do not always work in favor of the studious
student. By extending the period dedicated to studying, one may find themselves quickly tired, in-
creasing the sensation that their eyes are just drifting over the pages, instead of truly reading them. To
avoid this ineffective studying, one should constantly take short breaks within their studying session.
In those breaks, one should make sure to energize oneself through the consumption of a snack or the
enjoyment brought about from listening to a few of one’s favorite songs.

5. Get enough sleep.
By obtaining enough sleep, one is able to not only focus in preparation for their exams, but they are
able to concentrate on their actual exams on test day as well. When one is tired, performance on exams
is usually much worse than performance in which the student slept a reasonable amount of time the
night before. In contemplating whether one should carrying on with studying throughout the limited
night time, one should ask themselves if they will actually recall the vast amount of information in the
exhausted state they are in, or whether they are sacrificing their needed sleep for unfruitful efforts.

6. Quiz yourself on the material.
Typical studying methods, such as simply reading over notes or old tests, are not necessarily the most
effective ways in which one may quickly learn the material and content of a given exam. However, in
utilizing other methods, one may be able to quicken the pace at which they are reinforcing various top-
ics in their brains. For instance, one may create an outline with broad topics that need to be studied
and quiz oneself on those topics. Flashcards and Quizlet are two of the most effective means of being
able to quiz oneself, especially Quizlet, which creates tests on the material inserted into digital flash-
cards.

7. Write out the material.
Instead of just continuously reading over studying materials, one should consider actually writing
down what concepts they must remember. A multitude of studies have shown that physically writing
down the material can improve your ability to recall that material quickly and easily.

8. Treat yourself.
Once the stress of studying for exams is finally alleviated, one should treat themselves to a treat that
serves as a reward for all of the excruciating time and effort that one put into studying for these tough
exams. For instance, one may take themselves out to enjoy a sweet delight at the local ice cream shop,
or one may buy some new clothing or shoes at the mall.

17

Safety in the Summer

Tyanna Evans
We all love summer. No, summer flings, spending time with friends, staying up all night, and having the best
time of your life— right? As teenagers who are still learning how to deal and handle “adult life,” some of us
have to admit that we aren’t that responsible when it comes to our surroundings and our safety. In the summer,
many activities that attract youth are happening, which means teenagers will come out to these events. Though
this can be enjoyable, it’s important to be aware of safety hazards that come with the summer heat.
Getsafe.com says a study released by the US Department of Justice in 2014 found that crime rates are lower
during the fall and winter, but that during summer, the rates increase. Why is this? Some of the reasons crimes
increase during summer are because kids are out of school, people travel more in summer, heat exacerbates hot
tempers, and alcohol and drug consumption increases. One resident from Hamden, who wished to remain
anonymous, said that their household has been robbed two times— both during summer. “One of the best sea-
sons of weather brings out the worst in people,” said the Hamden resident.
Not only is robbery increasing in the summer, but the intake of drugs consumed by young people increases.
During summer, many teens will be influenced by drugs and alcohol. “Personally, I know for a fact that teen-
agers are out getting high, drinking, and doing stuff that teenagers do more in the summer because school is
out,” one anonymous person said. When asked, a group of parents stated that they are more worried about their
child’s safety during the summer, due to the increased crime rates and drug intake.
Young people need to have conversations about summer safety, even when it’s tough. Even though we’ve all
probably had the “scream stranger danger” and “ stay away from pot” conversations with mom and dad, it’s
always good to have that talk again— but not only about drugs and alcohol but on making the right decisions,
facing possible consequences, and being mature.
Some summer safety tips are simple. The National Crime Prevention Council gives straightforward tips on
how to stay safe in summer, like being aware of you surroundings, not post on social media when you’re away
from home, locking your doors and windows, asking someone you trust to keep an eye out for you when you
go on vacation, and putting lights on timers to give the impression that someone is home. Some safety tips are
not as easy. If you are going to be drinking or using drugs, make sure you’re around people who are sober to
make sure you’re okay and make it safely home. Talk to your family before you go out to let them know what
you’ll be doing, who you’ll be with, and give them your friends’ numbers to call if there are any emergencies.
Remember to stay safe and have fun this summer!

My Happy Place

Stacey Correa
People need breaks from their realities sometimes, and tend to go to places that comfort them and make them
feel better. It’s a place that they know will benefit their mental wellbeing and is a place they’ll always trust.
My “place” isn't a place at all. It's actually the people I know and trust. My friends are my “happy” place be-
cause my mood gets better being around company I enjoy, they encourage me to go out more, and I can wholly
be myself around them because they accept me as who I am.
Whenever I'm just not in the mood, I can always count on my friends to cheer me up. They can notice whenev-
er im off and they allow me to talk about what's bothering me. They provide a safe space for me to get things
off my chest and they don’t judge. They offer advice. My favorite part is when they start encouraging me to
leave my bed and persuade me to go out with them and eat at places I've never been before. I always end up
really enjoying myself and I discover new foods and places that I would've never thought of trying. I appreci-
ate the efforts they do to make me happy and it shows me how much they care about me truly and how genu-
ine their actions are.

18

I never have to worry about how I'm acting or what I'm saying around my friends. That’s because I know they
won't judge me or criticize my actions, or the things I say. Being around them increases my level of comforta-
bility because I've known them for a long time and I trust them. That's the best part-- being able to be me.
That's very important because it allows me to feel free rather than confined. It further distances me from what
had me worrying in the first place and places me in a better mental state.
My friends are the definition of my happy place because I can apply all the definitions of anyone's happy place
to my own. Whenever I'm with them, everything about my wellbeing increases and I’m just in a much better
mental and physical state. Everything increases in a positive way and that's all I could ever ask for.
That is just an example of a small and simplistic way that I can take care of my mental well-being. Whatever
makes you feel the way my “happy place” makes me feel, then that is a huge yet simple step that is already
bettering your mental health. You don't need to take drastic measures, and it may be that your comforting place
might’ve been there all along.

Goals and Transitions

Lesly Mellado
Coming into high school, no one really knows what to expect. Though it can seem intimidating. getting to
know what Career offers is a really good opportunity to explore something you will like doing in the future.
I'm not saying you aren't going to change your mind later on, but you should explore your options to find a
sense of what you would like to do, whether you like medical or business options.
“Being a freshman, it was quite a hard transition because I had to do a lot of effort understanding what the
teachers and students were saying because English wasn't my primary language. My grades were good through
most the years here. What I liked about this school and even to this day is it offers really good health classes
and different programs, sports, and club opportunities that I hope everyone can take advantage of,” said junior
Franchezca Perez. Perez knew she wanted to do something related to a future career in health, putting in all her
hard work to understand all her classes. This hard work was reflected through her good grades; because she
was fascinated in learning more about what medicine can do, she did not allow language or anything to stop
her.
“The reason why I came to Career was to further my education and opportunities in the field that I want to
study, which is animal science,” said junior Veronica Borowski. “I would like to study in college to be a vet
tech, and then later study to be a veterinarian.” Knowing what you would like to study will make it easier to
accomplish your goals, as Borowski is doing now. Despite her interest in science, Borowski still had to adjust
to Career. “The classes weren't such an issue; it was more the culture, because I was raised in a different neigh-
borhood and environment,” said Borowski.
People have different experiences when coming to a new school, and also they find new and unexpected inter-
ests. Be open to new things and find people who you know will help you on your way to your goals. Com-
municate and keep in touch with teachers who will be there for you. When you know which pathway will take
—health or business— it makes school easier for you, because you tend to like what your learning, or maybe
you find out that what you thought you liked isn't what you thought in the first place and that you like some-
thing totally different. Remember, that is ok too.
Having a goal helps you focus on your future and helps you become determined in reaching it. As you begin
your transition to a new school, think about how proud you’ll be looking back when you reach your dreams.

19

Destination: Peru

Valeria Torres
With its many beautiful landscapes, its
delicious food, and rich culture, Peru
is one of the most interesting countries
to visit.
Peru holds Machu Picchu, one of the 7
wonders of the world. It also has won
the title of Best Culinary Destination
for 7 consecutive years at the Interna-
tional Gala of the World Travel
Awards, as well as the Best Cultural
Destination.
More than 3,835,000 people visited
Peru in 2017, and this number has
been growing dramatically in the last
15 years. Peru holds many places
worth visiting, One is the beautiful city
of Cusco, where the main square
“Plaza de Armas” is located. Tourists

here not only enjoy the colonial structures from the 16th century, but also the beautiful view and all the unique
hotels and restaurants. Cusco is filled with amazing food.
One if Peru’s iconic features is in the town of Ollantaytambo. This town has access to the Inca Rail, one of the
most majestic ways to get to the Incan citadel Machu Picchu. The Inca Rail takes you through the awesome
countryside view of the Sacred Valley, which leads us to the one of the most-visited places in Peru. Machu
Picchu is known as the most famous destination in Peru. Tourists come all year long to visit and explore and
hike the ancient grounds.
For people who like cities and urban life more than hik-
ing, Peru's main cities such as Lima, Cusco, Arequipa and
other cities offer food tastings for tourists. Pisco tastings
are popular as well. Pisco is a liquor very famous in Peru,
made from grapes. Another unique dish to enjoy in Peru
is pollo a la brasa, or blackened chicken, which you can
find anywhere in Peru. It’s baked in big coal furnaces that
give it a unique flavor, then served with perfect french
fries and sauces. Peru is considered to have the best
ceviche, which is made with fresh fish, Peruvian chilies,
onions, and garlic, marinated in lemon juice, and served
with fried plantain and sweet potato. Seafood is some-
thing Peru doesn't do wrong.
Tourists enjoy Peru’s activities, festivals, and traditions, ranging from its unique food to incredible music as
well as the beautiful trips and adventures people can take all throughout Peru. It is safe to say it is worth visit-
ing and getting to know its rich culture and many hidden traditions.

20

The Tea About the Republican Party

Emily Cervantes
“People call me racist, or they assume it.”
—Hill Regional Career High School teacher Eric Malafronte.

As you grow up, you might see would see that people are not well-
informed on the Republican party and are quick to stereotype them with-
out really knowing the full argument. This is where many people are mak-
ing a mistake. Throughout our lives, many have witnessed the media por-
tray the conservative side of politics as evil and racist. This also happens
the other way around, with the media portraying liberals unfairly. The ac-
tual ideals of a Republican are not often fully heard or are stereotyped.
“Conservatism should be based on protecting property rights and free-
doms. People need to understand that we don't try to protect only rich
white people, whites, and racists’ views. We want people to rely on them-
selves to pursue actual happiness, and people need to be empowered, but
also be responsible for themselves,” says Career teacher Mr. Malafronte,
who is a proud Republican.
The Republican party, known as the GOP (Grand Old Party), is one of the
two major parties in our system, the other being the Democratic party. The
Republican party was formed to abolish slavery in 1854. Their ideology
was inspired by the antifederalist papers, which argued how the govern-
ments’ powers should be limited due to the previous ruling of King George III, who abused his power.
Many people have incidents that sparked their political ideology from a young age, which helps shape and mold their
political ideology. Mr. Malafronte identified his political beliefs at a young age. “I was watching [TV show] The Little
Rascals with my father and saw the scene with the civilian saying to the police officer that they are a taxpayer, which led
to me asking my father what a taxpayer was. It led me to think that it was very unfair to take someone’s hard-earned
money,” says Malafronte.
The most controversial arguments that the Republican Party makes are mainly surrounding abortion, gun control, and
immigration reform. The Republican party tends to be overall pro-life, due to the fact that they believe that life begins at
conception and that their tax money should not be paying for something that they do not agree with. Members of the Re-
publican Party generally believe that owning guns is a right guaranteed by the second amendment which gives people the
right to bear arms.
There have been traces of media bias against Republicans. For example, Time magazine falsely reported an article stat-
ing that Donald Trump removed the Martin Luther King, Jr. statue from the Oval Office, which ended with the writer
apologizing on Twitter. Another example is when Buzzfeed recently falsely reported on conservative Ben Shapiro, stat-
ing that he inspired a synagogue vandal when Ben Shapiro is a Orthodox Jew. However, you can also argue if the Re-
publican party is upset with media bias, why is there media bias on the conservative side? For example Fox News, News
Max, and World News Daily all approach issues with bias against Democrats. Bias is everywhere, and it gets to the point
of wondering: who can you actually believe or trust? Who is feeding people the truth and who is feeding them nothing
but crap?
The flaw of both parties is that they seem to clash a lot instead of actually trying to achieve passing some legislation.
This makes it clear that people need to be more active with their state elections instead of just complaining for a change.
They need to be active themselves, starting at their community level.

21

Opinion: Back in Time in America

Astou Diallo
Aren’t time zones amazing? In Australia it’s tomorrow, in Europe it’s tonight, and in the United States it’s
1942, where minorities, women, and LGBT people are still under assault by white men. In the month of May,
lawmakers in Alabama, Arkansas, Georgia, Kentucky, Mississippi, Missouri, Ohio, and Utah have passed new
anti-abortion bills, and other states are trying to implement similar measures.
The new laws have raised questions about why men are making laws that have no impact on them. Some of
the bills, such as the one passed in Ohio wouldn't allow an 11-year-old who was sexually assaulted to get an
abortion. A plethora of women and men across nations have stood on the opposite side of these bills, shocked
that America is going backwards and continuing to deprive its citizens of their rights. A tweet from conserva-
tive Fox News host Tomi Lahren surprised many Americans, given that she’s been dragged in many instances
for her strong conservative views. “I will be attacked by fellow conservatives for saying this but so be it, this
Alabama abortion ban is too restrictive. It doesn’t save life, it simply forces women into more dangerous
methods, other states or countries. You don’t encourage life via blanket government mandate!”
Many Republicans have agreed with Tomi on this stance as well, agreeing that it will push women to more
unsafe measures to get the wanted result. The lack of education on abortion has made a significant impact on
where our country is today. Many of these legislators, and even everyday citizens, believe that within 6 weeks
of a pregnancy you’re “murdering a child.” In reality, the fetus is barely developed.
Many news outlets have been showing how the Democratic party has been more united in standing against this
issue and acknowledging that this is hypocritical to everything that the United States is supposed to stand for.
In general, most Americans don’t agree with banning abortion outright. The supreme court’s decision to let a
woman choose in Roe v Wade wasn’t the beginning of abortion in America-- it allowed people to access abor-
tion legally and prevented people dying from unsafe, illegal abortions.
According to polls, most Americans don’t seem like they want the Supreme Court to overturn Roe v. Wade.
For example, a Gallup poll from July 2018 found that 64 percent of Americans want the ruling to remain as is.
Some social influencers such as Charlemagne tha God have made theories suggesting that the reason for these
states passing these laws are for white preservation, given that studies show that the states that have passed

these laws are red states.
Whatever you believe, the
consequences are clear.
These bills will result in
women dying from unsafe
illegal abortions. Mississip-
pi has only one abortion
clinic left and people are
protesting whether or not it
should stay. In the end, we
have to realize that this na-
tion is going backwards in
time-- not in the sense of
gaining independence, but
in depriving women of
their human rights.

Pro-choice women protest in Alabama. (Photo/Seth Herald)

22

Opinion: SeaQuest Opening Wrong for
Trumbull Mall

Andy Herrera
In the Westfield mall in Trumbull, there is something unusual: an aquarium opening up inside the mall. The
aquarium is called SeaQuest, and there are locations throughout the United States in Utah, Nevada, Texas,
Colorado, California, Minnesota, Virginia, New Jersey, and Florida.
In these locations, SeaQuest has run into problems. There have been criticisms from people who visited
SeaQuest Aquariums in other states. SeaQuest is different from other aquariums. Examining SeaQuest, some
statistics show they do not take care of their animals and protect them as they should. There have been articles
about how the animals have been mistreated and how keeping them in captivity, like at SeaQuest, is a bad
thing for innocent sea creatures who also have feelings.
I think SeaQuest is a bad idea to open up in a mall. I feel any aquarium should only open in an area with lots of
room to have animals swimming freely. Any real aquarium should have lots of qualified people there to take
care of the animals-- people who just aren't there for the money, but people who have a real passion for the sea
animals and love the sea creatures.

NBA Draft Approaches

Anthony Harris
On Tuesday May 14th, the NBA (National Basketball Association) held the annual lottery draft pick. The pick
has taken place every year since 1985 to determine the order for the NBA draft. In the NBA draft, teams obtain
rights to eligible amateur U.S. college players and also international players. The 14 teams that did not make
the postseason are eligible for the lottery. The top 3 teams with the highest chances of landing the number 1
pick are the New york Knicks (17-65), Phoenix Suns (19-63), and Cleveland (19-63), with their chances being
14%. The Chicago Bulls (22-60) have a 12.5%, Atlanta Hawks (29-53) 10.5% , and Washington Wizards (32-
50) 9%. The New Orleans Pelicans (33-49), Memphis Grizzlies (33-49), and Dallas Mavericks (33-49) all
have a 6% chance. The Minnesota Timberwolves (36-46) have 3%, Los Angeles Lakers (37-45) 2%, and the
Charlotte Hornets (39-43), Miami Heat (39-43), and Sacramento Kings ( 39-43) all have a 1% chance.
On May 28th, the NBA revealed the order for the NBA draft:
1. New Orleans
2. Memphis
3. New York
4. Los Angeles Lakers
5. Cleveland
6. Phoenix
7. Chicago
8. Atlanta
9. Washington
10. Atlanta (from Dallas)
11. Minnesota
12. Charlotte
13. Miami
14. Boston
It has been reported that the New Orleans Pelicans will most likely draft Zion Williamson, power forward
from Duke, since it’s been reported that Anthony Davis wants a trade from the team. However, a few sources
came out saying that Zion wasn’t interested in going to the Pelicans and may go to go back to Duke. It has
been reported by Williamson’s stepfather that he’s interested in the Pelicans. The draft takes place Thursday,
June 20th, at Barclays Center in Brooklyn, New York.

23

Sports @ Career

Accomplishments, Events, and Features

Outdoor Track: End of the Road

Adam Ahmad-Rizal

The month of May has been an extremely critical month for the Career Panthers outdoor track team, especially
for those who running their last meets of their high school lives. All of the serious meets happened in this
month, including the West Sectional, the novice meet, the SCC Conference Championships, and Class M and
S state championships. The Panthers are looking to go beyond states and qualify for State Open and New Eng-
land championships.
Panthers @ North Haven (5/8/19)
This was the last regular meet for all of the Panthers. This was the last chance for people to qualify for the
West Sectional, SCC championships, and state championships. This was an exceptional meet for all the run-
ners, especially for the boys, who managed to qualify their relay team for State Championships. They will be
including Umarr Laham, Adam Ahmad-Rizal, Shiv Patel, and Anthony Harris in the West Sectional. However,
the results of the meets were quite questionable, since the placements and times did not add up. Nevertheless,
Coach Jackson said to the team “you all had a good day today!” after the meet.

24

West Sectional (5/15/19)
This was one of the bigger meets compared to the other
meets during the season. The Panthers competed with the
likes of Hamden, Wilbur Cross, Notre Dame, West Haven,
Branford, Fairfield Prep, and East Haven. The girls had an
exceptional performance, qualifying almost everyone into the
SCC championships. Carmen Rosemond was also featured in
this meet for shot put, where she threw 32 feet, snatching the
2nd place medal. The long jumpers featured Shania Jackson,
Sian Smellie, Maya Joyner, Amaje Freeman, Tayjana
Greene, Jenia Whitney, and Janiah Jowers. The top 10 in the
400m dash featured Johnae Jones, Sofia Soriano, and Ga-
briela Soriano, who placed 2nd, 5th, and 9th. Unfortunately
for the boys 4x100m relay and girls 4x400m relay, they were
unable to qualify for SCC championships due to disqualifica-
tion. But the girls 4x100m relay placed 2nd in their race,
which brings them to SCC Championships.

SCC Championship
It was another great day for the girls, though the weather sug-
gested otherwise. The meet was held at Lyman Hall high
school, where 23 other schools competed for points and high
placement in the leaderboards to earn medals and win the
SCC Championship. The girls featured the 4x100m relay,
and multiple individual events including the long jump, triple
jump, 400m dash, 200m dash, 100m dash, and the 300m hur-
dles. The girls 4x100m relay, which featured Tayjana Greene,
Shania Jackson, Sofia Soriano, and Johnae Jones, was named
2nd team all-conference for the race after they snatched the
2nd place silver medal. Johnae Jones took home a bronze
medal after placing 5th overall in the 400m dash. Shania Jack-
son also took home a bronze medal after placing 3rd overall
in the long jump. TayJana Greene placed 4th overall in the
triple jump, earning herself a medal.

Class M State Championships (5/29/19)
This meet was specifically for the girls and featured several
girls from the previous meets, including Jenia Whitney,
Amaje Freeman, TayJana Greene, Shania Jackson, Sian
Smellie, Johnae Jones, Maya Joyner, Carmen Rosemond, So-
fia Soriano, and Gabriella Soriano. Both 4x100m relay and
4x400m relay qualified for this meet. The Panthers kicked off
with the girls 4x100m relay, where they ran a time of 51.02
seconds, which earned them a 4th place bronze medal and a
spot in the State Open. The 4x400m relay, which included
Sofia Soriano, Shania Jackson, Gabriela Soriano, and Johnae
Jones, ran a time of 4:12.99. They placed 5th overall, earning
them another bronze medal and another reserved seat to the State Open. All of the girls performed well in the
events that they competed for. Johnae Jones also earned a 3rd place medal for the 400m dash, which qualified
her for the State Open in that event.

Class S State Championships (5/30/19)
All of the boys managed to qualify for their events and were happy to compete. After a last-minute qualifica-
tion for the 4x100m relay, the boys were determined to perfect their race and perform their best. The line-up
included Umarr Lahun, Adam Ahmad-Rizal, Shiv Patel, and Anthony Harris. The boys managed to complete
their race well and left everything on the track. Though the boys only placed mid-leaderboard, they thoroughly
enjoyed this last meet of the season.

25

Allez! Allez! Allez!

Adam Ahmad-Rizal
Pregame Prospects
This is a topic I have been dy-
ing to write about. Liverpool
FC has an opportunity, once
again, to win silverware for
their trophy cabinet. The
2018/19 season for Liverpool
FC has been possibly one of the
best seasons they have had in
over a decade. They were in the
running for the Premier League
title throughout the whole sea-
son, dropping no lower than
2nd place. Now they have the
opportunity to face Tottenham
Hotspur in the Champions
League final.
Liverpool making it to the Champions League was probably the last thing anyone thought would happen, espe-
cially in the manner that they did it. In the 2017/18 season, people argued that Liverpool had the easiest draws
to reach the final. They faced the likes of Porto, Manchester City, and AS Roma, ultimately meeting Real Ma-
drid in the final.
However, Liverpool had the harder draws this year, defeating Bayern Munich, Porto FC, and coming back
against FC Barcelona in the semi finals. This fact is a confidence booster for the Liverpool fans, since Totten-
ham Hotspur may not be considered to have the same quality as Liverpool. This would be their 6th Champions
League trophy that Liverpool are fighting for. Liverpool had the chance for it to be their 7th european title this
year, but was unable to capitalize against Real Madrid in the 2017/18 season, where they lost 3-1.
Let’s talk why Liverpool are favorites to win the Champions League cup. When soccer fans think Liverpool,
we can talk about the fabulous front three: Mohamed Salah, Sadio Mane, and Roberto Firmino. The trio share
a total of 68 goals among each other. They are known for their fast and dynamic playstyle. They utilize the
pace of Mane and Salah to get in behind defenders while Firmino is used as a playmaking false 9.
The defense is also one of the best in Europe, with Alisson Becker and Virgil Van Dijk being the base of the
wall. Van Dijk has been dribbled past 0 times throughout the whole season, which has helped Liverpool main-
tain 20 clean sheets. With Matip in form, the center back partnership looks to be able to handle the likes of
Heung-Min Son and Harry Kane. The two full backs, Trent Alexander Arnold and Andy Robertson, are not
only known for their very good defending and high pressing, but they are dynamic offensively. They share 30
assists just between the two defenders, which is extremely high for defenders.
Liverpool have played Tottenham twice already this season, winning both games. The two teams know the
quality that is on each side. Though Liverpool are considered the favorites, it will be a very interesting clash
among the two English premier teams.
Post-Game: Victory
Liverpool have done it. The European Champions cup is returning to Liverpool for the 6th time after defeating
Tottenham with a scoreline of 2-0. This is the first trophy that Liverpool has won in over 8 years. Many play-
ers on the Liverpool roster have won the trophy for the first time, including Jurgen Klopp, Liverpool’s coach.

26

The game kicked off with Liverpool in
possession and a pass forward into the
box by Jordan Henderson. Sadio Mane
tried to make a short cross where
Moussa Sissoko had his hand up and
the ball striking his arm. The referee
made a decision to award Liverpool a
penalty less than a minute into the fi-
nal. Mohamed Salah took the penalty
to give Liverpool and extremely early
lead and early confidence.
Tottenham Hotspur played an ex-
tremely great game. After the penalty
was taken, Tottenham had majority of
the ball possession and had more shots
on target than Liverpool did. Tottenham looked like the more dangerous side, creating many more chances
than Liverpool. Liverpool had to defend extremely hard until Divock Origi put the game to bed after scoring
an 87 minute goal to decrease the chances of Tottenham coming back. This showed how resilient and com-
posed Liverpool was.
This game was make or break for Liverpool. It gave Liverpool the confidence to go out and win many more
trophies. Liverpool has completely transformed into a European powerhouse over the many years of Klopp
being in charge. From here, they can only get better and win many more trophies and regain the title of “Most
Decorated.”

See Ms. Huckabey for more information and an
application for this FREE program!

27

West River Biology Field Trip

with Dr. Ngô and Mr. McTague

28