Northwest
February 2012
VOLUME XLXI
Northwest Catholic, 29 Wampanoag Drive, West Hartford, Connecticut, 06117
National Honor Society Welcomes Sixty-Six New Inductees
By Elizabeth O’Neill
For sixty-six upperclassmen
who have demonstrated
outstanding achievement
in the areas of service,
scholarship, leadership,
and character, December
8th was a special day.
Marked by a dress-up
day in the morning
and a ceremony in the
evening, December 8th
celebrated the induction
of the students into the
National Honor Society.
The requirements for
admission into the
National Honor Society
include an average
grade-point-average
of 3.33, character strength,
and leadership activity and
service. Students eligible
for NHS membership based
upon these criteria were
notified earlier in the school
year of their eligibility and
Northwest Donates Blood to Save Lives
By Annie Berning
Every two seconds, someone
in the United States needs
blood. In just one year, five
million patients receive
blood. On November 30th,
Northwest Catholic students
helped fill the need for blood
in the annual blood drive.
This event is organized
and run by members of the
Student Council and Red
Cross employees. Ten Red
Cross employees came to
Northwest for this particular
blood drive and brought
a truck full of registration
forms, cots, and the supplies
needed to complete the
donations with them. In
addition to the sixty-two
people signed up to donate,
the drive was open to
members of the public. Those
who wanted to donate had a
few pre-requisites: first,
they needed to be at
least seventeen
years old.
Donors had
to be healthy,
and weigh a
minimum of
110 pounds.
Those who
planned on
donating were
encouraged to drink a lot
of water and eat iron-rich
foods in the days preceding
the blood drive. It is
important for donors to be
well-hydrated because their
bodies have to replace the
fluids that are taken with
the blood donation. It is also
important for donors to have
eaten iron-rich foods in the
Passages
I d t
tasked with completing an previously held – and with
application that would give it she took on the many
greater insight into other responsibilities of guiding the and a reflection by guest
facets of their character. NHS. In addition to selecting
NHS faculty moderator Mrs. a group of new inductees
Turley embraced one of her to uphold the pillars of
first major challenges as the NHS, Mrs. Turley was
the new leader of the NHS charged with the planning of
the December 8th induction
ceremony. Nicholas Italia,
Hannah Shea, Haleigh
Beckerman, and Elizabeth
O’Neill, the four officers of
Kathleen Connelly
the Northwest Catholic’s
National Honor Society were
integral in the planning of the
2011 ceremony, as were the
current NHS members who
Jacqui Denver, ‘13, looks over the were asked to participate
in the ceremony’s prayer
prayer sheet.
service. The ceremony
in meticulously reviewing included not only this prayer
student applications. Mrs. service, but also a brief history Doucette’s words for the
Turley enthusiastically of the Aquinas Chapter of the
took on the role that NHS by Northwest Catholic
former English department principal Mrs. Williamson,
chairperson Mrs. Juda, the recitation of inductees’
who retired last year, had names, four speeches written
days before donating because and cryoprecipitate. These
iron is a key component of products are used to help
blood cells. The body uses people young and old, some
the iron to replace the blood with diseases and some who
taken during donation. Upon were victims of traumatic
arriving to donate, students, accidents. Sickle cell disease
faculty, and parents were led alone affects more than 80,000
through a four-step people in the United
process. They States. Patients
were given suffering from
information this disease
Kathleen Connelly
about require
blood frequent
donation blood
and asked transfusions
to show throughout
an ID. their lives. A
Red Cross single car accident
employees then victim can require as
asked the donors about many as 100 pints of blood.
their medical history and Mr. Woodford, the Student
completed a quick physical Council moderator, was very
exam that included checking pleased with the success
their pulse, temperature, and of the blood drive. “The
blood pressure. They also Student Council did a great
took a small blood sample job as always. The Red Cross
from each donor to check for employees were pleased to
anemia (anemic people come back to Northwest and
cannot be blood work with the well-mannered
donors). students, staff, and parents,”
Kathleen Connelly
Those who he reflected. This year’s
passed donors provided a total of 36
the tests usable pints of blood, more
were then than the amount donated
permitted to last year, and enough to save
donate 108 lives. The students, staff,
blood. Each donor and parents who showed up
donated a pint of blood. to donate were pleased they
Refreshments were available were able to donate. In fact,
for donors after they had many donors are planning on
finished donating. After blood donating again in the future.
drives, all collected blood is The Student Council will
tested for HIV, hepatitis B hold another blood drive on
and C, and other infectious March 16th. Students who
diseases before it is used. were not able to participate
The blood is also divided in the November blood drive
into four products before it is are encouraged to consider
distributed. These include red participating in the blood
blood cells, platelets, plasma, drive this spring.
and read by the officers
on each of the four pillars,
speaker Mrs. Doucette,
the new chairperson of the
English department. Mrs.
Mrs. Doucettte speaks to the
inductees and welcomes them into the
National Honor Society.
inductees were centered
around a theme that the
beloved English teacher lives
by: enjoy the journey of life
with humor. Mrs. Doucette’s
NWC Celebrates Juniors
By Jessica Jordano
Upperclassman. The word
may intimidate some,
and others may use it as
a way to gain popularity
in school. However, at
Northwest Catholic, the word
upperclassman represents the
great responsibility that older
students have in the school.
The seniors and juniors,
after the Junior Investiture
ceremony, will then need to
maintain this responsibility
as they take one more step
in their high school careers.
On November 15, 2011,
the class of 2013 became
upperclassmen. With a senior
sponsor by their side, each
junior was called up on stage
and presented with a wooden
cross during this significant
service. This ceremony
demonstrated that the juniors
have developed into mature
students of Northwest
Catholic. The celebration
began with the entire school
gathering in the auditorium.
Then Mr. Cusson called each
junior up on stage with their
senior sponsor. Singling out
each junior demonstrates
the idea that each junior has
effected this community.
When the junior chose this
senior, they picked someone
that they have looked up to
as a role model. Not only
this, but the senior must also
continue to be a close friend
and reliable source for the
junior throughout the rest
of the school year. As the
ceremony continued, each
junior was given a wooden
cross. The cross represents the
reflection was nothing if not
humorous, epitomizing her
personality and providing
those in attendance with
laughter. Current junior
and newly-inducted NHS
member Allison Connors
says, “Mrs. Doucette
talked about something
that all of us could relate
to. Especially with the
stress of junior year, the
reminder that it is okay
to laugh and have fun
Kathleen Connelly
while being a student, an
athlete, a leader, and a
volunteer was important.”
Although the closing
reflections offered by Mrs.
Doucette were a highlight of
the ceremony, parents and
students alike noted that the
ceremony on a whole was
well done, and the efforts
contributed by Mrs. Turley,
the NHS officers, and other
faculty members played a role
in the success.
juniors’ spiritual and mental
growth. The wooden cross is
a symbol of their hard work
spiritually, and also their
effort in the classrooms. Once
all the juniors were called on
stage, received their crosses,
and then sat back in their
seats, a Mass continued in the
auditorium. So, what does the
Junior Investiture ceremony
actually mean? It symbolizes
not only the juniors becoming
upperclassmen, but it
congratulates the juniors
for the hard work they have
accomplished as high school
students. Junior Investiture
is a symbolic event that
represents the juniors’ new
Kathleen Connelly
Galo Rodriguez poses with his
senior sponsor, Ryan Strid, on
the day of Junior Investiture.
role as upperclassmen. Before
they became upperclassmen,
the juniors were still students
absorbing and learning
about the school. Now, being
upperclassmen, the juniors
take on the new responsibility
of growing up and serving
as another resource for the
lowerclassmen to use when
they need help. After this
ceremony, the juniors gain
the title of upperclassmen and
responsibility of leading the
school with the seniors.
 NWC
Page 2
Dear Delilah
Dear Delilah,
I am a high school athlete who
plays a sport every single
season. Because I am always
at practices and games, I miss
out on a lot of the volunteer
opportunities that my school
offers. My parents are
constantly telling me that I
need to start to accumulate
service hours to put down on
my college applications. How
do I find the time to volunteer
without it interferring with my
sports?
From,
Volunteerless
Dear Volunteerless,
Many people have the same
problem balancing sports
with service hours. There
are ways to get involved
in the community without
having to give up one of
your sports. There are many
opportunities to volunteer
on the weekend when you
might not have practice or
games. The summer is also
a great time to volunteer.
Because you have endless
free time the sky is the
limit on what you could
do! Whether it is working
at a camp for children with
special needs or painting
senior citizens’ nails, find
something that works for
you!
Love,
Delilah
Dear Delilah,
I am new at school and am
not very athletic. However, I
enjoy playing sports and like
the feeling of being on a team
with my schoolmates. I think
sports are an excellent way to
meet new people. I do not think
that I am good enough to play
on the sports teams at school,
but I want to get involved and
participate in school activities.
What should I do?
From,
Not Sure What to Do
Dear Not Sure What to Do,
I think that it is great that
you are trying to stay
involved in your school.
If sports really aren’t your
thing, Northwest offers an
abundance of after school
clubs and activities. The
activities here range from
math team to scuba diving
club to Thursdays in the
City. If you are into the
arts, you could tryout for
the plays or participate in
the dance team or band. If
you still are interested in
sports, you could be a team
manager and be a part of
the team. Don’t be afraid
to experiment and try new
things. Have fun!
Love,
Delilah
Editorials
Letter from the Academic Dean
Sometimes when one
is a teacher, there are
disappointing moments
in the classroom. Students
are asked to read a piece
of literature, a chapter of
Biology, or investigate a
period of history, and it is
clear from the response the
next day that some of the
students probably did not
complete the assignment.
There is disappointment
because in many instances
teachers are passionate about
the material that the students
have been asked to consider.
Obviously there are methods
to “force” the students to
complete their homework
assignments. Teachers can
assign study questions,
students can be required
to outline the material, and
quizzes can be given the next
day in class. However, all
these techniques are punitive
in nature. Why doesn’t the
motivation come from within?
I frequently wonder whether
the concept of “intellectual
curiosity” has disappeared.
Obviously, not every subject
interests every student. As
an English teacher, I find
myself much more interested
in English, history, foreign
languages, art, and religion
lessons rather than math
and science. Yet, there are
moments when I am in “one
of those” math and science
classes that I am intrigued
and fascinated. I want to
know more about the subject;
I realize that math and science
are intimately related to my
understanding of literature
and history. Several years
ago as part of the Northwest
Catholic Summer Reading
Program, students read
an excerpt from a book
called Napoleon’s Buttons:
17 Molecules that Changed
Commentary
Technology. It runs our
society, our daily lives, and
the world in general. We
may have created technology
to make our lives easier
but has technology really
done that for us? Sure one
could argue that technology
has made life easier, but at
what cost? We are so rooted
in technology that we let
it rule over us. During the
power outage following
storm Alfred, people were
threatening the electricity
company workers because
the they could not handle
being without power. It got so
bad that the National Guard
was asked to protect the
workers. People were actually
threatening to kill other
human beings because they
had been without power for
History for their science
classes. One of the chapters
set forth the thesis that one
of the reasons for the failure
of the Emperor Napoleon’s
troops when he invaded
Russia was that the buttons
on the French army uniforms
were made of tin. Because
of their chemical properties,
the tin buttons disintegrated
into grey powder in the
Russian cold. The question
proposed in this book is, were
the soldiers too interested
in holding their clothing
together that they neglected
their primary tasks as soldiers
and the campaign failed?
The answer is probably not,
but the concept illustrates
the interrelationship of areas
of learning and knowledge.
Did you know that the
current stage play/movie
“War Horse” is based on a
children’s novel, War Horse
written by British writer
Michael Morpurgo and deals
in part with the concept of
equine therapy? The stage
play is also an incredible
example of puppetry and
the use of the imagination.
These are all examples of
the interrelationship of all
branches of knowledge and
skill.
However, back to the main
question which is, why don’t
students decide to make the
most of their educational
opportunities? Admittedly
there are many assignments
and many distractions, but
it’s my personal opinion
that many high school
students are missing the
opportunity. Once I reached
that conclusion, I tried
to determine why. My
answer is that admitting
to having “intellectual
curiosity” requires quite a
bit of self-confidence and the
a few days. There is no logic
behind such threats; it would
only delay the restoration
of power. In reality, is there
really any electronic device
in your house worth another
person’s life? It is ridiculous
how dependent people are on
technology. Then there is the
impatience technology has
caused. Here’s a lesson for all
those who blame CL&P. Next
time CL&P wants to trim
the branches surrounding
the power lines in your
neighborhood, let them. Is a
tree missing a few branches
worth the risk of losing your
power when you “need” it so
badly? Accept some blame.
At least people had their cell
phones. If you ask a teenager
what possession they can’t
live without, a majority will
February 2012
willingness to ignore peer
pressure. It can be quite a risk
for an adolescent to take. It is
not acceptable to say at age
Kathleen Connelly
15 or 16 or 17 that you like
school. It’s not cool to say that
you read the story, thought
about the characters, and that
you want to talk about your
ideas.
Mr. Cusson
nauseated, all she could say
This is an attitude that I want
was, “Isn’t this so cool!”
you to consider. Take the risk
Neonatal ICUs are not for me,
to gain an incredible reward.
but premature infants have
If you like to read books, say
been a career for her. For me,
that you like them; if you
books and poems have been
really love learning to speak
my window into the world. I
Spanish, don’t be shy about
hope that all of you, at some
your passion. It’s acceptable
point in life develop a case of
to wear Calculus t-shirts,
“intellectual curiosity” that
so admit your fascination
can’t be cured. It might make
with chemistry and moles. I
you happy for the rest of your
guarantee that the rewards
life.
will be incredible! If it doesn’t
happen here at Northwest
Catholic (and that’s your
loss), I hope it will happen
STAFF
Editor in Chief
in college. As you mature, EmmaKate Mortillaro
frequently your interest in
a particular area increases. Editorial Staff
Frequently in college you Elizabeth Allen
become passionate about Mary Deneen
a particular academic area Grace Hallinan
and pursue that subject for Nicholas Italia
your career. It becomes both Jenna Jordano
a vocation and an avocation. Emily Kearney
For me, I am more than happy Nathan McKenzie
to say, “I love books; books Brian Poirier
are some of my best friends.” Maggie Rose
Mary Royer
I will leave you with one
Staff Writers
example. Early in my wife’s
nursing career, she became Elizabeth Allen
involved with premature Annie Berning
infants. As the preemies Gina Bettencourt
began arriving in the unit, she Gabrielle Giangreco
Agata Harabasz
couldn’t stop talking about
Nicholas Italia
them. Soon I received a phone
Jessica Jordano
call from her saying, “You
Logan Lawson
need to come down here and Matt Marshall
see this!” I remember looking Phoebe McGrath
into the unit and seeing this Caroline O’Neill
incredibly tiny infant with an Elizabeth O’Neill
assortment of IV and monitor Hannah Shea
lines running in every Rani Vance
direction. As I felt slightly Maeve Walsh
Contributing Photographers
Caroline Carew
Kathleen Connelly
Google Images
Mr. Todd Hansen
say their cell phone. People,
Jazlowiecki.com
adolescents especially, who
Jenna Jordano
have their phones are more
Stephanie Koldras
focused on the people not Mrs. Michelle Murphy
present than those who are newmilfordspectrum.com
physically there with them. occupyhartfordct.com
They are too busy texting to Yearbook
appreciate the company of
their family or whomever Advisor
they may be with. Now that Mrs. Jennifer Montoney
I’ve finished ranting, I’ll end
on a lighter note. Be sure to Northwest Passages
appreciate those around you. Northwest Catholic
Remember you are blessed to High School
get the chance to spend time 29 Wampanoag Drive
with your family and friends, West Hartford, CT 06117
so soak up every moment Phone: (860)236-4221
of it. Turn off your phone Fax: (860) 586-0911
and leave it in your car; do
whatever you need to do, just *Editor’s Note: Opinions expressed
don’t let the effect of those not in Northwest Passages are not
present keep you from truly necessarily those of the
appreciating your life filled editorial staff.
with the people around you.
 Passages
February 2012
Ghosts of “A Christmas Carol” Haunt the Northwest Stage
By Maeve Walsh enticing speech delivered
by Jacob Marley, played by
The Northwest Dramateurs junior Dan Lusardi. Junior
commanded the stage once Adrian Hatch stole the
more with three nights show as the misanthrope
of sold out shows of “A Ebenezer Scrooge, whose
Christmas Carol: Scrooge transformation from old
and Marley” from December miser to philanthropist due
2nd to 4th. Though adapted to the visit of three ghosts,
from “A Christmas Carol,” Christmas Past, Present,
Kathleen Connelly
a novel written by English and Future, was charming
author Charles Dickens, “A and compelling to watch.
Christmas Carol: Scrooge and Bob Cratchit, played by
Marley” was written directly sophomore Ryan DeFranzo,
for the stage by American warmed the hearts of not
playwright Israel Horowitz. only Ebenezer, but the whole
The Dramateurs portrayed audience with his endless
this adaption of such a optimism for his sickly son
classic tale phenomenally, Tiny Tim, played by junior
another triumph to add to Michelle Bach. Newcomers
director Mrs. Avery’s list. Thomas DuPuis, Charles
The play opened with an Faselle, Gabe Foster, Anna
Northwest Arts Leave Audience Awestruck
By Agata Harabasz exciting things to see. Then
at the end of the show, the
The Northwest Catholic crowd pleasers: AP Art and
community was once again Art IV, to which audiences
awed by the various talents members “oo-ed” and “ah-
presented this year at the ed” as usual. Those who later
annual Art Show and Dance went to the Dance Recital
were really in
for a treat! Once
again, Mrs.
Michelle Murphy
Smith’s dance
students amazed
the audience with Jazz Choir member Rachel
their lithe dance
steps and intense
Northwest Catholic dance recital awes the crowd choreography.
with graceful dance moves. One piece that
was particularly
Recital. As one could tell impressive was Jing Jing
from the vast amount of Long’s performance. The
people present that night, self-choreographed piece
the shows were a hit! Art was a beautiful traditional
teachers Mrs. Oates and Mr. dance with an Asian inspired
Woodford proudly presented twist. The audience was also
the works of their students. captivated
“Once again I am amazed at with the
the artwork of my students dances
and proud of how much each performed
person has achieved,” said by the entire
Mrs. Oates. The artwork this class which
year truly was amazing. From showcased all
the charcoal still life of the of the hard
Art I students to the various work that the
works of the AP Art students, dancers put
the audience had only good in this year. The Jazz Ensemble plays a Christmas tune for the
things to say. Entering from Northwest school at the annual Christmas concert.
the front of the gallery, your Catholic should be proud
eyes were met with a plethora to have such wonderful
of colors. Among the first artists and performers as
to catch the eye were the part of their community.
colorful tiles of this year’s Two days before, the full
craft students and the various sound of harmonious voices
works of the Art II and Art and instruments filled the
III students. Then as one air. As the curtains rose, the
proceeded down the gallery, shine from the brass of the
the various works of the Art instruments illuminated
I, Crafts and Photography the faces of the audience.
students overwhelmed the The Northwest Catholic
eyes. There were so many choirs and bands once again
NEWS
Mirabello, Amy Gillespie, Christmas Present excellently,
and Clarissa Green adapted bringing Scrooge to the
into the cast flawlessly, as realization that he needed to
did seasoned Dramateurs turn his stingy ways around.
Joseph Anquillare, Emma Abbie Reed glowed along
Christolini, Gillian Colman, with Sara as the ghost of
Savannah Gaston, Magdalena Christmas Past, showing the
Lenczewski, TJ Lowe, audience a touching scene
Danielle Lewczyk and Ayana where Scrooge lost his only
Smith. Swim team captain love, Fan, played by Anna
Kathleen Connelly
Kathleen Connelly
and senior Dramateur Mirabello. Chris Lynch,
member Saralynne Brown taking time away from the
shined as Bob Cratchit’s wife, director’s seat after directing
giving a motherly feel to “Stone Soup,” gave this
scenes that otherwise would classic tale light and character
have been incredibly dark, with his portrayal of Fred,
such as when the Scrooge Ebenezer’s energetic nephew.
and the ghost of Christmas But of course, no play is
Future visiting the Cratchits complete without those
after Tiny Tim’s death. Sara working behind the stage: the
Ball, a recent transfer student stage crew, headed by Susie
from Avon, suited the role of Grimshaw. Susie took over
Barking Vet Inspires Students
demonstrated their amazing By Matt Marshall
talents to an audience filled
with friends and family. As Seal barks echoed through
Mr. Avery, Mr. Luddy and the Rice Auditorium on
Mr. Selig conducted, the November 11th as guest
students showed everyone speaker Jennifer Long, an
that their hard work and alumna of NWC, spoke to
determination had paid off. the students. This year was
It was an event to remember. Northwest’s first female
“My favorite song had to Veterans’ Day speaker.
be ‘Good King Wenceslas’ Since Jen Long ’83 and her
by the Concert Choir,” said family couldn’t afford to
pay for college, military
Barrachina.“ Their sound was an appealing option
was full and the soloists did for her. After she finalized
such a great job.” The Wind her choice, Jen set off on a
Ensemble complemented harsh training course in New
choirs nicely with their Jersey only a mere two weeks
excellent “Shepherd’s after graduation. There she
Hey” by Percy Grainger. began an army boot camp
In fact, all of the choirs and that involved staying in a
bands were lauded for their gas chamber while stating
outstanding performances. one’s position in the army,
When asked after the concert, as well as going on a free fall
bungee jump. After finishing
the intense boot camp, she
served in the Army National
Guard for three years. In the
National Guard she worked
Kathleen Connelly
as a combat medic. As a
medic she provided first aid
to many of the wounded
soldiers. Since serving as a
medic, Jennifer did an inter-
service transfer and went
into the United States Marine
a band member said that Corps (USMC). Since she had
“it was a lot of hard work transferred from the Army
and a lot of fun.” And it to the Marines, boot camp
sure was fun. The music began again. Jennifer was not
put everyone in the holiday just known as a medic on the
spirit. Congratulations go battlefield, but she was also
out to all the members of a two-time Marine Corps
the NWC music program. Champion in the javelin.
The musicians keep you Later she began competing
wanting to hear more. We in the Armed Forces
look forward to the spring Championships, where she
for more amazing displays of was a silver medalist. After
talent. retiring from the Marines,
Page 3
as stage manager, a position
previously held by her older
sister Sharon. The stage crew
also included Haley Derlinga,
Sarah Dotter, Gabrielle
Foster-Bey, Dan Pitruzzella,
Desmond Sierra, and Paul
Stenko. Lighting technician
Anthony Kurak once again
did a phenomenal job.
Kathleen Connelly
Working alongside Anthony
was sound and video
technician Andrew Stephens,
who integrated video into
the show for the first time
by first projecting the Ghost
of Christmas Present’s face
onto a screen before she
appeared on the stage. We
look forward to seeing what
the Dramateurs come up with
in the spring!
Jennifer went to Mills College
in Oakland, CA. She then
went on to study at New
York Law School, where she
earned her JD. She practices
Michelle Murphy
Jennifer Long poses with her
yearbook from 1983.
Workers’ Compensation
Litigation while living
on the Hudson River in
Yonkers with her husband. In
conclusion, Veterans’ Day is
a special occasion where we
are able to honor all veterans
that have served our country.
It is a time to promote giving
back to our community just
like our past veterans have
done for us. Veterans have
endured some of the most
painful things even just while
at training camp. When asked
what Veterans’ Day meant
to our chief administrator,
Margaret Williamson
replied, “Veterans’ Day
is an opportunity to
promote American values
like democracy, helping
others, and the values of the
Constitution.” We should
always keep in our heart all of
the veterans who have served
our nation.
 Passages
Page 4 NEWS February 2012

NWC ACTS Class: Helping Others from Dawn to Dusk

By Hannah Shea
Every year, the senior ACTS
class embarks on the Urban
Immersion the week before
Thanksgiving. However, the
Immersion is only a small
fraction of what the ACTS
class does during the lengthy
semester. All seventeen
students, Mrs. Gillespie the
ACTS teacher, and Mrs.
Bournique left the Friday after
school and made their way to
Sacred Heart Church, where
it was a very memorable
experience. Maebh Sheelan
said, “I thought I would miss
my belongings and home
and spending time with the
same people would become
irritating, but it was totally
different than I expected,
and I never missed my
belongings or my family.”
Every night before prayer,
Mrs. Gillespie would ask each
of the students what gift they
received that day and their
favorite and least favorite part
Heart for the residents of
the Catholic Family Services
Group homes, adults who
have mental and physical
disabilities. The ACTS class
danced the night away with
their new friends. Early
Saturday morning, the
class went to the Hand Up
program, which delivers
furniture to people who are
just moving into their first
apartment and need some
assistance. After some hard
labor, the class set out for
class was split up into two
groups. Half went to run
in a 5 kilometer road race
and the others helped out
at the Pancake Breakfast at
Sacred Heart for the morning.
In the afternoon, the class
gathered at West Farms
Mall and walked around the
mall with members of the
American Youth Hostel, who
had organized this walk for
the vision impaired. This
was a favorite for many
including Olivia Rustic.
homes, Manna Community,
and other places. Caroline
Carew’s favorite part of the
immersion was spending
time at St. Gerard’s center,
because “in the past our
service was more behind the
scenes and I didn’t know
where my hard works and
efforts were going to but I got
to work one on one with the
mothers at the center.” Mrs.
Gillespie said from the start
that this Immersion should
not be fun and easy, but at

they lived for the next five
days. During these five days,
the students will be involved
in intense community service
and giving back to other
from dawn to dusk. Having
limited access to television,
internet, phones, showers,
and a car, the immersion can
be nerve wracking at first,
but as the five days progress,
of the day. Kayla Kilgore’s
most memorable moment was
“the sense of giving without
receiving and that one must
be open to new experiences
and have an open heart
when serving others.” After
arriving and unpacking at the
church, the students prepared
a potluck supper and set up
the banquet room in Sacred
the South Park Inn homeless
shelter to make lunch with
the children and make lion
pillows for all of the children
at the shelter. Later on that
very night, two seminarians
from the Archdiocese came
over for dinner and played
a very intense Catholic
trivia game after dinner.
On Sunday, the ACTS
Monday morning brought
new challenges when the
class was assigned to various
organizations and school for
the next two days. Students
went to Saints Cyril &
Methodius, Covenant Prep,
The Catholic Worker House,
Friendship Center, Saint
Gerard’s Center for Life, St.
Joseph’s Cathedral, nursing
Caroline Carew
the end, the whole class had
an amazing time and life-
changing experience helping
others, continuing to make
new friends in the class, and
seeing the difference that they
were making in the areas of
the world that need it most.
The Immersion truly was an
experience that the class will
certainly not forget.

Chocolate Pepperoni
Chip Bagel
Google Images

Cookie 11% Google Images

Google Images

23%
Bosco Sticks
11%

Favorite Cafe Foods

Everyday hundreds of students flood the cafeteria, eager to
find out if their favorite foods are being served.
Whether it is the pizza in a box, a chocolate chip cookie,
Google Images

Google Images

french fries, or the mozzarella sticks, there is always

something for everyone to enjoy. The seniors were
surveyed on their opinion of the top cafe foods and these
Pizza in a Box are their favorites. French Fries
42 % 11%
Assorted Wraps
7%
Mozzarella Chicken Fries
Sticks 3%
Google Images

Google Images
Google Images

2%
 Passages

20
February 2012 features Page 5

is a ninety percent survival years, these medications re-

rate when the cancer is
caught early.
The majority of women di-
agnosed with breast cancer
in the United States do not
die.
14. Your risk depends on a
variety of factors.
These factors include family
history, if or when one gets
pregnant, or how active one
is.
15. Surprisingly, having a
father or brother with pros-
trate or colon cancer can
affect your odds of develop-
ing breast cancer.
duce the risk for an extra ten
years after you stop taking the
medication.
19. Commonly mistaken,
breast cancer is not a single
disease.
Over the years, doctors and
scientists have developed
more effective treatments by
realizing there are different
types of breast cancer. This
has helped them target the
different types of cancers.
20. Chemotherapy is not
always necessary.
Doctors do genetic profiling
on breast cancer tumors to

things you don’t know about breast cancer
1. Mammograms are not as
accurate as one might expect.
It is crucial that starting at age
of contracting breast cancer.
Although alcohol increases
your risk of contracting breast
These are signs of possible
BRCA 1 or 2 mutations.
gauge a woman’s risk of a re-
occurrence; and if the chances
These mutations can run on of this happening are low,
9. More often than not, pain
the father’s side, so be aware then doctors may not advise
is not a symptom of breast
of his family history. chemotherapy.
cancer.

Michelle Murphy
Northwest Catholic shows breast cancer support, as student body takes a group shot wearing the shirts sold to raise money in support.

40 women get mammograms
even though they are an
imperfect screening tool. Be-
cause of this, an annual clini-
cal breast exam from a doctor
is a must. However, both
exams are equally important.
2. Self-examinations are very
useful in detecting anom-
alities, which may indicate
early signs of breast cancer.
It is best to do them at the
same time every month, but
do not stress over it. Self
exams are meant to help you
become familiar with what is
“normal.”
3. Do not assume the worst
if you are asked to “redo”
your mammogram.
The majority of the time the
“redos” turn out to be noth-
ing. The cause of these is
usually calcium deposits and
most of them are benign.
4. Studies show that breast
cancer is less likely to be
found in active women.
It has been found that any
type of exercise is likely to
help by lowering estrogen
levels. A study from the Uni-
versity of South Carolina has
linked exercise to significantly
lower risks of dying from
breast cancer.
5. Alcohol increases your risk
cancer, getting enough Vita-
min B Folate found in leafy
greens will help reverse the
effects of alcohol.
6. Women who have reached
menopause are more likely
to develop breast cancer if
they are overweight.
One of the most significant
factors in the level of estrogen
in post-menopausal women
is body fat. Being overweight
causes an increased produc-
tion of estrogen, encouraging
breast cancer.
7. Avoid consuming soy
supplements, as it can cause
breast cancer to spread
within your body.
Isoflavones found in soy
products can act like estrogen
in the body and encourage
the growth of certain types of
breast cancer. Supplements
contain more concentrated
doses of isoflavones, so they
are to be avoided. But soy in
foods is acceptable.
8. Cyst detection does not
always mean that they will
lead to cancer.
Many women have cysts that
come and go throughout the
middle years of their lives.
Though finding a bump or a
lump can be scary, these types
of cysts are usually benign.
There are many causes of
16. Get an MRI and a mam-
pain, but usually it is not affil-
mogram to be sure to detect
iated with breast cancer. The
any tumors you may have
more common warning signs
early on.
of breast cancer are a palpable
By doing both screenings you
lump, a change in the size or
will increase your odds of
shape of the breast, puckering
finding small tumors.
of the skin, and many others
that should be brought to the
17. Removing your ovaries
attention of your doctor.
lowers your risk by nearly
50 percent if you have the
10. Women with dense
BRCA 1 or 2.
breasts are at high risk of
Dr. Dahlia Sataloff ex-
developing breast cancer.
plains that “Your ova-
When tissue is dense, cells
ries produce hormones
will grow and multiply faster
so taking them out
than less dense tissue. This
changes the hormonal
means that there is a higher
mix.”
chance for some cells to be-
come abnormal or cancerous.
18. Certain medica-
tions can lower the
11. Breast cancer risk is not
chances of de-
the same for everyone.
veloping breast
The stat of 1 in 8 is assum-
cancer.
ing that one lives to be 85
Some medi-
years old. Statistically speak-
cations can
ing, women are most at risk
block estro-
to develop breast cancer in
gen’s ability
their seventies and eighties,
to promote
however, that is when breast
breast
cancer is the most curable.
cancer.
When
12. Even though breast can-
used
cer may run in your family,
for
you may not develop it.
five
Out of all of the cases of
breast cancer, only approxi-
mately 20 or 30% have a fam-
ily history.
13. In the United States, there
 Passages
Page 6 features February 2012

Senior Halloween Party 2011

 Passages
February 2012 features Page 7

Northwest Semi-Formal 2011

 Passages
Page 8 features February 2012

Love in the Wild

Seadancing Web Dancer
Polygamus
Horses Gators When a Australian Red
Seahorses hold each Back Spider wants to
other’s tails for a court- pursue a female, it will
Male alligators tend to
ship dance. Afterwards, dance on the female’s
have multiple mates as
the male carries the web but if he makes a
opposed to female alliga-
baby. mistake he will be eaten.
tors that remain loyal to
one male.
Maneating
Mantis Puzzling
Clowning
Porcupine
Around
The clownfish can
change its gender for
reproductive purposes.

Once the male procupine

knows that the female is
Praying mantis interested, the male will
females eat shower the female with
their mates urine for either days or
between weeks.
5 to 31 Hefty Hyenas
percent The female
of the hyena acts as
time. the male in the
relationship
because they
are bigger and
stronger than
males.

Pride
Princesses
The female lions in a
pride are the first to
show interest in the male
lions with headrubs.

Daddy Daycare

Male Emperor penguins

sing to their female mate
and brings her gifts of
stones. After mating, the
male watches over the
egg for two months while
the female hunts for food.
The male protects the egg,
never leaving or eating
during that time.

February 2012
Inside Out: Gina Bettencourt, Brian Butler, Mrs. Hayes, and Sung Young Yoon.
What would people be
surprised to learn about you?
Gina Bettencourt: I was blind
in my right eye until I was
five years old.
Brian Butler: I love dogs.
Mrs. Sandra Hayes: I am an
identical twin.
Sung Young Yoon: I’m South
Korean not Chinese.
If you could be anyone else
at Northwest for a day, who
would you be, and why?
GB: Mr. Shugrue, so I
could leave after D period
everyday.
SY: Mr. Selig, so I can wear
perfect color matching
outfits.
If you were stranded on a
desert island, who would
you want to be stranded
with, and why?
GB: Aladdin because he
could get me off of the island
on his magic carpet.
BB: Thomas Murphy - he
knows how to have a good
time.
SH: Steve Jobs- he would
definitely make it interesting.
Or a young Paul McCarthy.
SY: Jay Hwang, he can hunt
animals.
What words of wisdom do
you live by?
GB: “Believe none of what
you hear and half of what you
see.”- Benjamin Franklin
BB: “Live, laugh,
dance.”- Ellen
Degeneres
SH: Don’t pass up
anything you can only
do once in your life
SY: Life is one shot.
What three things
could you not live
without?
GB: Math, nail polish,
and headbands.
BB: WHYBL
basketball, water, and
air.
SH: My iPhone, peanut
m&m’s, and my kids.
SY: Money, water, and hair
gel.
Who or what always makes
you laugh?
Passages
NEWS Page 9
GB: Alli Denton attempting to
be funny. BB: “Bill Gates”- Lil wayne If you could hear what If you could live anywhere
someone is thinking for a in the world, where would
BB: Mr. Massaro. SH: “It’s a beautiful day” day, who would you choose, you live?
and why?
SH: Sung Young Yoon. SY: “SoJu Hanjan” GB: Hogwarts.
GB: Buddy the Elf, to know
SY: Myself. What would your first action how he stays so cheerful all BB: Bloomfield, CT.
as President of the United the time.
What would be the first thing States be? SH: Nantucket in the summer
you would do if you won 10 BB: Metty World Peace and somewhere south in the
million dollars? GB: To create a flat tax rate, (formerly Ron Artest)- he’s an winter.
reform welfare, and repeal interesting guy.
GB: Spend it. and reform healthcare. SY: South Korea, it is the best
SY: Kim Jung Eun so that we place to live for me.
BB: Try and play Augusta can prepare for the future.
National. If you could manage any
What is your greatest professional sports team,
SH: Ban smoking ambition in life? what team would you
everywhere. choose?
GB: To marry Bradley
SY: I would unite North GB: Gryffindor quidditch
and South Korea. team.
What movie could you BB: Montreal Expos.
watch over and over
again, and why? SH: Red Sox.
GB: The Hangover SY: Manchester United.
because Zack Galifianakis
Kathleen Connelly
is the funniest man alive. What would be the title of
your autobiography?
BB: Caddy Shack.
GB: “Gina Bettencourt…
SH: Same Time, Next Enough Said.”
Gina Bettencourt Year- I know I am dating
myself. SH: Make Someone
Kathleen Connelly
Laugh.
BB: Buy a castle. SY: 300 because I love the
action. SY: Black Hole.
SH: Buy a house on
Nantucket. If the whole world were What magazine do you
listening, what would you Sung Yung Yoon always look forward to
SY: Buy a Ferrari Enzo and a say? getting in the mail?
Maserati Quattroporte GTS. Cooper.
GB: Leave me alone. GB: I Love Cats.
What annoys you the most? BB: Graduate from high
BB: I’ll give you three strokes. school. BB: Sports Illustrated for
GB: People. Teens.
SH: Surround yourself with SH: To have people
BB: Teachers’ pets. people that make you smile or remember me as a kind, SH: People.
laugh! friendly person.
SH: Talking in the library and SY: I don’t read magazines.
SY: Ahnnyoung (Hello) SY: To become a senator of
South Korea. What random fact are you
If you could ask God any one most proud to know?
question, what would it be? Who is your hero, and why?
GB:Pneumonoultramicrosco
GB: What are the winning GB: Siri, she saves my life on picsilicovolcanoconiosis is the
lottery numbers? a daily basis. longest word in the English
language.
BB: Why?
SH: When will my teenage
daughter become lovable
again?
Kathleen Connelly
If you could have only one
food for the rest of your life
(assuming that this strange
Kathleen Connelly
situation would not affect
your health), which food
would you choose?
Brian Butler
oh yea, feet touching feet. GB: A.C. Petersen’s tie dye
vanilla ice cream. Mrs. Hayes
SY: When peole cannot BB: Tiger Woods- a true role BB: December 22 is the
understand me. BB: Pumpkin chocolate chip model. shortest day of the year.
cookies.
What would be your SH: My dad- he lived life SH: Everyone has a unique
personal theme song? SH: Lobster with lots of always with lots of laughter. smell, except identical twins.
butter.
GB: “We’ll be Alright” by SY: Mama, because she is my SY: I don’t know anything.
Travis McCoy. SY: Cow’s tail soup. mama.
 Passages
Page 10 features February 2012

Point-Counterpoint: Did CL&P Effectively Restore Power After Storm Alfred?

Pnt: CL&P Worked to Help All
By: Gina Bettencourt
During the last week of
October, 2011, snow began
to cover the ground. In a
short time afterwards, many
Connecticut residents were
out of power. This left most
CntrPnt: CL&P’s Response Action was Inefficient
who called with outrage were By: Phoebe McGrath of preparation is one of the company were suffered by
handled calmly by telephone main reasons that so many Connecticut residents, which
operators. When problems Storm Alfred arrived during customers were out of power many people argued was not
arose, workers were sent to late October and came as for longer than needed. fair. Although the restoration
the scene as soon as possible. a shock to everyone, but and cleaning of
These speedy responses especially to Connecticut streets was slow,
made Connecticut residents Light and Power (CL&P). Connecticut
feel assured that the goal of In the weeks following the citizens stayed

people without heat, cable
newmilfordspectrum.com
getting power back would storm, CL&P came under relatively patient
soon come for those deep scrutiny over the with CL&P’s
without it. After a company’s preparedness for president Jeffrey
week or so without the storm that caused over Butler, until he
power, most 800,000 CL&P customers began to lie about
residents were back to lose power for as long as the recovery rate.
occupyhartfordct.com

on the grid with twelve days! The number Butler set the goal
electricity, heat, of people covered over of restoring power
and a way to cook seventy percent of all CL&P Downed trees and wires make roads impassable. to 99% of the
food without going customers. Poor planning, CL&P customers
to restaurants. execution, and attitude led People argued that companies by November 6th (six days
By the time that to CL&P’s failure to perform need to be prepared for the after the storm), even though
CL&P was able to during the power outage. worst of situations. Before the company knew that this
People plead for CL&P’s help with signs. return power to the One of the main reasons why storm Alfred there was goal was impractical and
entire state, many CL&P has been receiving hurricane Irene, and when improbable. Butler knew that
and a way to cook meals. residents were displeased. so much criticism over their out-of-state workers from that goal was not possible
As shelters were opened in Going a week without power handling of Storm Alfred all over the country drove until November 9th yet he
various towns, Connecticut raised tensions and caused is because CL&P was not into Connecticut to help still made up the story.
Light and Power (CL&P) many unneeded phone calls prepared for a storm of restore the damage, CL&P Customers would have been
began to tackle the energy to CL&P. Many residents this magnitude that would did not pay them right away. more patient with CL&P if
problem that plagued nearly were nervous about having shut down almost all of In fact, many of the Irene the company had been honest
the entire state. The company to pay for the week they went their customers. CL&P’s workers were still not paid with us from the beginning,
responded as promptly as without power. However, when Alfred hit, and had said power would be
they could manage. Workers CL&P, in the quick and so workers were back by the 9th originally. That
were sent to various parts of efficient way, stated that less willing to way, if by some chance power
Connecticut to confront many CL&P customers would be come and work came back earlier, it would
problems. While the company reimbursed for their lost here. CL&P did not be a happy surprise! CL&P
was trying its best to send power during a later billing prepare adequate did not uphold the value of
out all workers, Connecticut period. This crediting to the restoration crews honesty that is essential for
residents became anxious and customers, along with the to help clean up the the relationship between a
many began to blame CL&P noted efficiency and swiftness mess that Alfred company and its customers.
Jazlowiecki.com

for the power outages. The
information that most people
forgot was that the company
was trying to reestablish
power for the whole state, not Every person in the company
just a street. CL&P workers
were able to remain calm and
reassured all customers that
they would soon be back in
their homes with heat and
power. CL&P faced harsh
criticisms, but the company
was still able to pull through
with the job at hand. People
Storm Alfred Brought Devastation to Families in Connecticut and the Northeastern States
By: Elizabeth Allen
On October 29, 2011, the
northeastern region of the
in action of Connecticut Light caused. Out of Because the promised goal
and Power, shows that CL&P state-crews did was not met and the lie was
handled the storm to the not begin to arrive discovered, customers across
best of the workers’ abilities. until mid-week, the entire state were angry
while other in-state and felt betrayed. CL&P
tried their best to achieve One worker from CL&P attempts to fix line. (paid back) workers recently said that they have
the goal of returning power. were arriving as “started addressing” some of
Considering the amount emergency response system early as Sunday. As a result the issues that arose during
of people who were out of was not built to deal with of not paying back the out- and after the storm, and since
power, the workers of CL&P problems for that many of-state workers, CL&P the president Jeffrey Butler
were able to return power to customers, but only equipped isolated Connecticut and has resigned, a new president
all residents efficiently and for a storm that wiped out slowed the restoration process has been hired. These changes
in a good time frame and 100,000 of their customers drastically. The consequences will hopefully make a
deserve credit for doing so. (less than 10%). This lack of this irresponsibility of the difference.
of these fallen electric lines, reported by the Muhlenberg water, and responsibility Halloween holiday was
more than 3 million people Township Police Department. for their children who were ruined. Remaining downed
lost power in the region. Another twenty-year-old stuck at home because of the wires and large branches
Approximately man was electrocuted when cancelling of schools. Some made the streets dangerous
seventy percent he stepped out of his vehicle businesses were unable for young children, especially
of Connecticut and touched an electrified to operate because of no in the dark of night. This
Light and Power’s guard rail, according electricity. Many restaurants day of trick-or-treating was
newmilfordspectrum.com

customers lost to a Springfield police had to throw out spoiled postponed until November
power. Less spokesman. In New York, food because of the lack 10th for towns that desired
than half of New Jersey, Connecticut, of refridgeration. On the to do so. Mother Nature
the costumers and Massachusetts, weather other hand, as
of The United emergencies were declared. restaurants such
Illuminating Transit nightmares were as McDonalds
newmilfordspectrum.com

Company lost endured by many throughout and Dunkin

Snow-laden trees fallen on wires are dangerous. power, however.
United States was struck by
a heavy snowstorm, a rare
occasion for this time of
the year. Some areas were
covered in more than twelve
inches of wet snow, sticking
to the leaves which had not
yet fallen from the trees.
Winds blew at fifty to seventy Several car accidents occurred
miles per hour. The weight of
this snow on top of the leaves
caused branches to break,
bringing down full limbs
and, in some cases, full trees.
These fallen trees caused
significant damage to power
lines and transmission lines
and blocked roads. As a result
the storm-struck region.
There was a Some forty-eight passengers
record-breaking snowfall on an Amtrak train bound
in Jaffrey, New Hampshire. for Boston were stranded
Here, 31.4 inches covered for thirteen hours overnight
the ground according to the when a rockslide blocked
National Weather Service. the tracks in central
There were eight storm- Massachusetts. Other Amtrak
related deaths reported in services were suspended
the state of Connecticut. between Providence, Rhode
Island and Boston, and New
because of the icy road Haven, Connecticut and
conditions, and there were a Springfield, Massachusetts.
total of six car fatalities. An The storm affected businesses
eighty four -year-old-man both small and large. Workers
was killed as he napped in were unable to attend to their
his recliner when a tree fell jobs because of impassable
through his home located roads, inability to shower
in Temple, Pennsylvania, as and have access to running
Donuts began
to regain their
power, they
were flooded
with hungry
customers who
were unable
to cook meals Extreme icy roads pose as another safety hazard.
at home. Lines were found certainly threw a surprise
along the roads leading to for all. Although the storm
gas stations as people waited had many negative effects,
for hours to obtain gasoline it allowed people to join
for their generators from the together and work to clean up
few operating stations. All the damage. People offered
over the state, signs reading their homes up to neighbors
“No Gas” were taped to and everyone was willing to
the pumps at the stations. provide each other with the
The storm also left many food, shelter, and warmth that
children in despair as the was longed for.

February 2012
Shout Out to Cheerleaders Girls Basketball Team “Stays Together”
By Elizabeth O’Neill
“Get it, get it, get it, get it;
got it, got it, got it, got it…”
A dozen girls dressed in
green and black lead NWC’s
Belly of the Beast in a rowdy
Kathleen Connelly
Victoria Peluso ‘13 stands proud. anything else, when it comes
display of sportsman-like
team spirit. These girls –
the Northwest Catholic
cheerleaders – are no stranger routines with precision and
to the enthusiasm that
radiates from this section
of the NWC gymnasium,
particularly during this cheer, their basketball teams on
a favorite amongst members
of the NWC community
thanks to its catchy phrasing
Hockey Team Shoots For The Victory
By Elizabeth O’Neill
The Northwest Catholic boys’
hockey team is certainly a
force to be reckoned with.
Considering that the team has
seen a monumental change
this year in the form of a new
home rink, the team has more
than exceeded expectations
its many fans may have
had. And indeed, there
Demitri Yao ‘14 tracks play down the ice.
are a number of “Hockey
Superfans,” who loyally don
their jerseys and file into
the International Skating
Center of Connecticut in
Simsbury, the NWC hockey
team’s new home. The season
opener at the team’s new
game venue was hugely
successful, resulting in a 4-3
victory over opponent Hall-
Southington. The team has
not backed down since their
first win of the season, thanks
to veteran players who hold
the team together, like AJ
Massaro ’12. Massaro ‘12 truly
excelled on the ice during
Passages
sports
and motions. Although the By Gabrielle Giangreco
crowd loves the cheerleading
team, the girls are primarily The girls’ basketball team
focused on supporting their started off their
fellow Indians – the basketball season in style
teams for whom they cheer. with a home
In addition to supporting the game against
basketball players with their Manchester
upbeat cheers, the squad on the newly
bolsters team spirit with renovated John
their enthusiasm, smiles, and Mirabello Court.
NWC pride. The girls, who The first game
truly “bleed green,” are led of the season
by senior captains Katherine presented a
Velazquez ’12 and Adrianna challenge to
Soldevila ’12. Velazquez and the Northwest
Soldevila lead their team not Catholic
only at practice and at games, Indians. Despite
but also through various the challenges Haley Garcia ‘15 and Kathleen Sarpu ‘13 guard the basket. Avon High School.
team-building activities, such at hand, our girls put up
as dinners, sleepovers, and a tremendous fight. After
bake sales. Although these the first quarter the score
activities are more fun than was tied 12-12. At halftime,
Manchester had taken the
to games, the cheerleading lead but we were not far
squad is focused, sending behind. Allison Connors
flyers soaring above fans, ’13 and Jacqueline Denver
performing dance and cheer ’13 played extraordinary
and kept the team alive
putting smiles on the faces of and going strong. The girls
basketball players and fans had great passes and plays
alike. They hope to follow further increasing the score.
Although the girls lost
winning seasons, into the the game 58-46, the girls
playoffs and throughout. exhibited fantastic skills and EO Smith. The Indians held
ability. The JV and Freshman
the monumental December Hartford Courant recognized
17th game, in which NWC not only Greenwood ’12, but
triumphed over “perennial also the NWC hockey team as
powerhouse” and opponent a whole in the newspaper’s
East Catholic High School. In annual list of “High School
one of the most intense games Hockey Games to Watch.”
of the season thus far, NWC The game that the Courant
triumphed over East Catholic claimed was to be of epic
with three goals, one which competition and performance
was scored by Zeke Angelini is the upcoming February 29th
’14 and two of which were game against CCC East rival
scored by offensive leader Windsor-Avon-Farmington.
As stated in the Courant
article, “goals should not be
in short supply” at this game,
where NWC will go head-to-
head, placing a great deal at
stake–including a potential
state title. Says Eamon Wizner
’13, “we’ve been doing
really well even in light of a
couple rough losses. These
losses have really brought
us together as a team in a
Todd Hansen
better way, though, and we
are on track to do some great
things this season.” Wizner
also adds that the team is
determined to once again
Massaro ’12 . Massaro ’12 is proceed to the semifinals and
not the only stand-out player hopefully find itself on top
on the NWC hockey team. of the competition. With a
Matt Greenwood ‘12, the senior line-up of co-captains
team’s goalkeeper, has also Connor Hardy, Brennan
proved his athletic prowess. Graham, Matt Greenwood,
Greenwood ‘12 has been AJ Massaro, and Tanner
named one of the 2011-2012 Vaughn, who was named last
season captains, along with season’s MVP, the potential
four other seniors; in addition, that NWC might take home
Greenwood ’12 was called a state championship title is
“one of the pillars for the a definite possibility. As the
Indians as they try to get to boys have said this year and
their fourth straight Division in previous years, they have
III semifinal,” according great potential – and this
to the Hartford Courant’s season, they are more driven
Boys’ Hockey “Fab 15” list than ever to convert potential
of exemplary players. The into success.
team were able to defeat
Manchester with scores of 53-
35 and 65-28. The girls then
took on the Hall Warriors
and came out with a win.
The score was 55-40. After a
tough first quarter, the girls
took a lead with a score of 23-
14. Alyssa Reaves ’13 had a
total of twenty points. Haley
Connors ‘15, Haley Garcia ‘15, ’12 and Kathleen McCormack
and Sofia Giansiracusa ‘15
played extremely well in the
third quarter with a 10-0 run.
The JV team also beat Hall
with a score of 41-23. On the
road, the girls’ team took on
last year’s Class L runner-up,
strong throughout the game
Track Runs for the Win
By Caroline O’Neill
The Boy’s Indoor Track Team
has high aspirations for this
season. Coaches Williamson
and Przech and senior
Joe Doyle ‘13 runs hard in the 3200.
captains Wes Hopkins, Jalen
Lollar, and Brian Poirier hope Poirier says, “We have a
to win a class championship.
With a strong team, and a
variety of talents, success is
not out of the question. The
team includes several strong
sprinters, including Jared
Delane ’13, Anthony Carter
’12, and Captain Jalen Lollar
’12. On the opposite side,
the teams talented distance
runners include Captain Brian succeed all together. The
Poirier ’12, Anthony Ravosa
’13, Jack Petersen ’12, and
Joe Doyle ’13, who make up
the 4x800 relay team. In the
end, the boys came in twelfth
out of forty-two teams. For a
relatively small school, this
ranking is quite impressive.
Not only is there plenty of
pure talent on the team, but
they boys are extremely
dedicated. “We’re a young
team, but we are a motivated
Page 11
but lost 72-37. Alyssa Reaves
’13 was the leading scorer of
the game. JV lost a close
game to EO Smith with
a score of 49-46. The
girls also took on the
teams of Tolland and
Glastonbury. Although
the girls were not able
to pull out a win, all
the girls put in a strong
effort throughout the
games. Then, the girls
Jenna Jordano
had a great win against
New Britain with a score
of 70-52. The team was
also able to pull off a
successful win against
The team’s motto for this
year is “stay together.” This
motto helps the girls to work
harder in practice by working
together, which will further
increase their success in their
games. Seniors Jessica Tyler
’12 lead the team. The
varsity team mainly consists
of players from the junior
class and a handful of very
talented freshmen. Although
the team is very strong now,
their future looks very bright
with many successes and a
tournament bid.
one,” explains Anthony
Ravosa ‘13. Every practice is
started with a “Get Better”
cheer because that is exactly
what the team intends to do.
With the success which the
boys have
achieved so
far, it will be
less difficult
for them to
progress
with a strong
season.
Kathleen Connelly
The kind of
dedication and
willingness
to push for
better personal
times is what
makes the
team unique. Captain Brian
goal of winning the state
championship and everyone
wants to do well on a
personal level. We support
each other and so do the
coaches.” The support of the
team is what makes them
the family that they are – as
a team they have a goal, and
it looks as though they will
Boy’s Indoor Track Team
is sure to have a rewarding
season this year and they
deserve the encouragement
and acknowledgment which
they deserve. They hope
to obtain wins and good
performances in all field and
track events, ranging from the
shot put to the 4x800 meter
run. The team will continue
to work-hard towards the
championship.
 Passages
Page 12
Track Team Gains Momentum
By Caroline O’Neill
The Girl’s Indoor Track
team is off to a strong start.
The team is coached by Mr.
Williamson, Mr. Przech,
Ms. Kerry Bannon, and Ms.
Belliveau and is led
by their three senior
captains Elizabeth
Allen, Megan Auletta,
and Megan Baker. The
girls practice hard every
day after school, and
hope to win the Class
S State Championship
this year. While some
may see this goal as
unattainable, the team’s Jenna Jordano ‘13 powers through the 400.
hard work, dedication,
and determination will
certainly help them to achieve “Coach Williamson has
this goal. According to one
member of the team, Jenna
Jordano ’13, “the Class S
State Championship is not
out of reach.” The talented
and devoted runners on the
team are sure that this year
the championship will be
theirs. In light of that, the
girls performed very well at
their first meet of this season, on a team so large, we are
the New Haven Invitational.
Overall, the girls’ team came
in 16th out of thirty-nine
teams. The team this year is
the one of the largest indoor
teams Northwest has had.
From the new freshmen to the well as tremendous support
experienced upperclassmen,
the strong team has much
potential this season, as
shown in their first meet.
Athlete of the Season: Jessica Tyler
By Nicholas Italia
Jessica Tyler has been an
incredible assest to the girls’
basketball team over the
past four years. She is a role
model and a key player for
the team.
Do you do other sports or
do you focus primarily on
basketball?
I also play football and
softball.
If you could sum up your
NWC basketball experience
in one word, what would it
be and why?
Fantastic, because all of the
girls are really nice and fun
to be around.
sports
Boys Basketball Does Not Give Up on Title
From these results alone, By Logan Lawson
it appears that the girls are With a record of six wins
looking ahead to a very and zero losses, the boys’
successful season. However, basketball team this year has
they could not have come so gotten off to a great start.
far already if it weren’t for the Beating their opponents by
an average of twenty-four
points, the team is loaded
with talent. In the front court,
the multitalented Kuran
Iverson ’13 is accompanied
Kathleen Connelly
by Aaron Wilson ’12, who is
probably the best defensive
player on the team who can
also serve as an offensive
threat. The well-balanced
backcourt is equipped with
Zach Lewis ’12, a multifaceted
shooting guard, Nick Gaynor
dedication of their coaches. ‘13, an athlete that serves as
the glue holding the team
trained us to be the best that together, and Tyler Huffman
we can be,” explains Liz Allen ’12, a sharp shooter that is not
‘12. Because of the dedication afraid to take it to the basket
and commitment of the when needed. With such
entire team, from the new strong starters, the team’s
freshmen to the experienced bench is not lacking; David
upperclassmen, the team is Blackwell ’12, P.J. Edwards
developing into not only a ’13, and Kywane Thomas ’12
true athletic powerhouse, but bring energy and boundless
also a dedicated family. “Even effort. Coach Mirabello is
blessed with a team that
a really close team. It’s just is characterized by their
like a family…a ninety-seven aggressive, yet controlled,
person family!” says Captain play complemented with a
Megan Baker. The girl’s team confidently humble attitude.
deserves much recognition for With upcoming games against
their great success so far, as respectable teams such as
Windsor and DeMatha, the
for the remainder of their team’s schedule is not an easy
hard-fought and successful one, but the players of the
indoor track season with a team have the right attitude
tournament bid. for each of the opponents they
What is your most playing.
memorable moment in your
NWC basketball career? What is your favorite part
about basketball?
When I made a backwards
shot before the buzzer. I love the sense of unity and
being able to stay together as
a team through the wins and
losses.
Who has had the most
positive influence on your
basketball career?
My mom has been my most
positive influence because
she tries to come to all my
games and tells me if I need
to work on something.
Has basketball taught you
any important lessons that
you can apply to the rest of
Jenna Jordano
your life?
To never give up on
something and to work hard
so you can achieve your
How has your athletic career goals.
at NWC influenced you as a
person? How has basketball had a
positive effect on your high
It has helped me be a leader school career?
and encourage myself and
others to work hard every It has kept me active and
day. I have made a lot of great
friends through basketball.
Do you intend to play
basketball in college? If so, What is the best part about
what level? basketball?
If the opportunity presents Being part of a team.
itself I would consider
play. When asked about the
imminent games, one of the
team’s captains Zach Lewis
simply replied, “The next
game is always the toughest.” full grown for home games;
None of their opponents are
taken lightly. The team is
putting their skills
to the test this year
by competing in the
Spaulding Hoop
Hall Classic High
School Invitational
tournament at
Springfield College’s
Blake Arena. They
are scheduled to
play DeMatha
Catholic High School
out of Hyattsville,
Maryland. DeMatha
is a well-known
national perennial
powerhouse that is a
force to be reckoned
with. The team’s top
players include the
6’8’’ guard Jerami
Grant who plans on
attending the Division
I program of Syracuse
University and guard
James Robinson that Alex Mortillaro ‘12 protects the ball.
will be playing for
the Pittsburg Panthers next
season. When asked about
the game, Lewis responded,
“It’s a big game on a big stage, immense amount of promise,
and the team is excited.” In
addressing this game, the old
maxim that serves as a perfect this year in the Class L State
paradigm is, “the bigger they
are, the harder they fall.”
Swim Team has Early Success
By Rani Vance
On Tuesday, December 20th,
the swimming and diving
team had their first meet of
the 2011-2012 season. Hoping
to bring home a victory were
captains Hannah Scobee ‘12
and Saralynne Brown ‘12.
Thomas Vignati was very
excited for the meet as he
said, “I hope our relays are
strong and we can out-touch
Hall.” Jackie Klingman ’14
also put in some positive
words before the meet: “Hall
is a good team, but if we try
really hard we could pull
out a win!” Captain Hannah
Scobee also commented, “I’m
a little nervous just because
it’s our first meet, but I know
that we are ready.” The
team put in a huge effort but
did not take home a win.
However, there were many
individual wins. In the 200
freestyle, Tom Vignati came
in second. Two Northwest
swimmers were also
successful in the 50 freestyle
event. Ian McCarthy came in
first and Gracie Kunkel came
in fifth. Then the swimmers
stopped to watch their divers
compete. Kelsey Baker and
Allie Kaehrle were the divers
representing Northwest.
Kelsey Baker’s highest scoring
dive of 28.05 was a back one
summersault one half twist.
She came in second with an
overall score of 135. Allie
February 2012
As in previous years, the
team has the entire school’s
support in each game they
play. The Belly of the Beast is
with a new look of no-sleeve
pinnies, and creative cheers,
Kathleen Connelly
the students serve as the base
of encouragement for the
team. This year’s team has an
and all of its fans just want to
see tireless efforts and success
Tournament.
Kaehrle’s best dive was a
reverse dive in pike position
scoring her a 19.35. Her
overall score was a 119. After
diving, swimming resumed
with the 100 butterfly. Colin
McCarthy took second in
this event. The relay team of
Gracie Kunkel, Austin, Colin,
and Ian McCarthy pulled
through with a win in the
200 freestyle relay. Despite
the loss of the meet, Gracie
Kunkel came out with an
optimistic attitude, saying,
“I think that everyone swam
very well, especially because
it’s so early in the season
and we were up against a
really good team.” Also some
encouraging words from
Hannah Scobee were, “The
team has been working very
hard at practice. Even though
we lost some great swimmers
this past year, we gained
a lot of strong freshman
swimmers, so I can’t wait
to see how this season ends
up! My goal for this season
is to have more swimmers
compete at states. The times
are tough but I’m pretty
confident that we can achieve
it!” Though Northwest did
not take home a win, it seems
as though the season is
looking hopeful. Northwest
has a strong all-around team,
and they hope they will be
able to put their strengths
together to become successful
this winter season.