Monthly Archives: March 2018

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Things to do Over Spring Break

On  Wednesday March 28, the Saint Rose High School community will begin their annual spring break or Easter recess. This year’s Spring break lasts from March 28 to the 9th of April. The 11 day break will be filled with fun Easter festivities and family time. However, some of us still may not be sure what things they should do over the time we have off from school and the stress of work and tests. So if you do not already have set vacation plans to get away to a destination other than at your home with your family, here are some ideas of activities that you can do over spring break.

First, you can spend time with your friends or family in and around your neighborhood. You can take a nice walk on the boardwalk if the weather cooperates or go for a long bike ride. The malls are also always a great destination to take up some time, you can go shopping for the upcoming warmer weather and hang out there with friends. You can also be adventurous and test out some new restaurants and check out different cultures of foods that you have always wanted to try out. Another option if you feel like giving back to others in your local community, you can volunteer some of your time at a local food pantry or shelter, or if you want to help with animals you can help out at your local animal rescue shelter. It might be also be a fun idea  to visit a zoo, theme park, or even a museum. All of these are just a small list of some fun activities that could keep you active and enjoying your time off over spring break this Easter season.

By Ashley Bock ’18

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The Celebration of Easter

As the winter melts into spring, many, both kids and adults, are looking forward with hopeful anticipation to spring break. Of course, along with this comes the celebration of Easter, the most important celebration in the liturgical year of the Catholic Church. It is easy to get caught up in the bustle of springtime sports, after school activities, and vacation plans and forget about the Lenten preparations we as Catholics must make for the Resurrection of Christ on Easter Sunday. Amidst all the spring cleaning we begin to do, it is important that we take time in the weeks leading up to Easter to do some spiritual spring cleaning: examining ourselves and level to which we have fulfilled our Lenten promises. Have we focused on prayer, fasting, and almsgiving throughout this season of Lent? Have there been times when we have neglected our relationship with Christ over the past forty days? It is alright to be honest with oneself when answering these reflection questions, as the main theme of Easter Sunday is salvation and God’s overwhelming love for each of us.

 

As we begin to draw nearer to the feast of Easter, focus on the salvific grace provided to us through Christ’s Passion, Death, and Resurrection is key in helping to prepare our minds for the joys of Easter Sunday. Although we must mourn the horrors of Jesus’ Crucifixion on Good Friday and wait quietly  on Holy Saturday for Christ’s coming, the joy of Jesus’ Resurrection on Easter Sunday makes our sufferings that much greater, and our period of reflection throughout Lent seem not so bad. Easter is obviously a very special time, as seen through the extravagant outfits worn to Mass and the beautiful lilies that adorn many altars during the Easter season, and celebrates God’s love and mercy in its greatest form, as God allowed his only Son to be tortured and killed for the greater good of mankind. Christ’s sacrifice for our reconciliation from sin is something celebrated at every Mass with the blessing and breaking of the Eucharist, but is so much more special on Easter Sunday, where we as a Catholic community take part in proclaiming a fundamental element of our Church’s teachings: Jesus’ nature as both man and God, and God’s all-powerful love and forgiveness. As you make your way to Mass on Easter Sunday with your family, be sure to reflect on how much God loves you, and how much he has done to provide you with salvation. Until then, be sure to keep up on your Lenten promises in preparation for the big day!

By Caitlin Wilson ’18

 

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Our Final Marking Period

The school year, to all of our excitement, is finally coming to a close. The last marking period is among us, and summer is just around the corner. But even though we are all completing the last stretch of the year, this marking period is still filled with important aspects. One big event happening for students in the AP exams being distributed in the first and second weeks of May. The AP students have been preparing for these all year, and it is important to keep working towards potentially scoring a 5 on the test. Some AP classes include biology, macroeconomics, literature, world history, government, U.S. history, and languages to name a few. During this time, seniors will be preparing for graduation and making sure they will meet graduation requirements. The last marking period still counts towards graduation, so dropping the ball could mean not receiving your diploma. Another thing that could happen to seniors is colleges could take away scholarships that you have earned because of low grades towards the end of the year. If your grades do not reflect the requirements of the scholarship anymore, they have every right to take it away. Underclassman need to remember that this marking period is important in the aspect of applying for colleges in the future. You send all of your transcripts from each year, and many students that i know have regretted slacking off in the last marking period of the year because it reflects your work ethic to the colleges you apply to. The thought of summer is very distracting and exciting for most, but as students we must stay focused on our work and assignments as the school year comes to a close.

By Sam Apple ’18

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Holy Week

A very special week to the Saint Rose Community is coming up any day now! It is known as holy week, which is the week before Easter and the last week of lent. Soon you will be able to start back up on whatever you sacrificed for this time! Senior Mia Poley says, “I’m so excited for Easter to come because I love helping my mom cook and make desserts I will finally be able to eat after giving them up for lent! Just getting my entire family together on such a special day means the world to me.”  This year, the first day, palm sunday, will fall on March 25th. On this day, Catholics celebrate our Lord’s triumphant entrance into Jerusalem. There, crowds had been worshiping and praising him with large palms. After his entrance, he performed multiple miracles in the town, such as raising Lazarus from the death. However, not everyone honored him, as the Jews stoned him and called him a blasphemy.

The next very special day of this week is Holy Thursday. On this day, we commemorate the last supper of Jesus. This is incredibly important because this was the day the sacrament of holy communion was created, especially because it was right before he sacrificed his life for us as he died on the cross. Although we celebrate this at each mass as part of the Liturgy of the Eucharist, it is especially praised on this special day. This is just another step in preparation for Easter Sunday!

Up next is Good Friday, which Catholics commemorate the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. This is a rather solemn day, being that it was the day the Lord had died. Pilate found no reason to condemn Jesus for blasphemy after questioning him. His life was then under the lands of the Jewish leaders in accordance to their law, which they issued Pilate to order the killing of Jesus. Although against this, Pilate crucified Jesus in order to avoid the riots and enraging the crowds. His sacrifice to die for us and his beliefs is the main reason we honor him so much during this special week.

Finally on March 31st, we will celebrate Holy Saturday, also known as Black Saturday. On this day many Catholics attend an Easter vigil service, in order to show their respect to the day Jesus lay in his tomb. Many light an Easter candle in their homes and begin to prepare for Easter Sunday the next day. This special week finishes off with Easter Sunday, which is not usually considered part of Holy week because Holy week occurs before Easter. On this day, families spend the time together and attend mass with one another to honor Jesus’ resurrection. Lauren Taylor says, “My favorite part of this day is just getting together with all of my loved ones laughing, sharing stories, and honoring Jesus for all he has done for all of us.” This week is incredibly special for our entire community and is a week we should all focus on our religion and strengthen our relationship with God.

By Brittany Lopes

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Prints & Imprints

Hello students of Saint Rose!

The literary magazine is named Prints and Imprints, and they publish a new magazine each year!

The theme for the 2018   Lit Mag is “Perception”. Perception is defined as, the ability to see, hear, or become aware of something through the senses.  Through your artistic abilities you can show your perspective of your time here at Saint Rose.  You may put your thoughts and memories into words and write amazing poems or short fiction pieces regarding your life, views, or time at Saint Rose. You could but those same thoughts to paper with pencils, paint, charcoal or even grab a camera and take some pictures.  This is your magazine so submit artwork and writing to hcarlotz@srhsnj.com.  If you would like to join the staff of the lit mag join the Schoology page NHGKQ-JH9QG for meeting dates.

By Elizabeth Marsicano ’18

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Senior Transition Day

         On Wednesday, March 15th, the Senior class of Saint Rose High School gathered for an exciting day filled with guidance and information regarding college. Various speakers came to the school to share their life stories and discuss the impacts that college had on their lives. All of these individuals did a fantastic job influencing each and every Senior in order for them to fully prepare for their upcoming journey in college.
         The first speaker was Father Bill Lago, who thoroughly discussed the importance of remaining faithful to God throughout your time at college. He explained how there are many opportunities to express your faith in college. For instance, there are various religious and faith based clubs and organizations that you can participate in. He also encouraged the students to attend mass at their colleges to continue pursuing their faith. His remarkable words were inspirational to all students and will most definitely cause them to practice their faith and stay devoted to Christ.
         The second speaker was Mary Ciametti, a mother who sadly lost her son due to the horrible effects of alcohol. She described her son’s life story and the effects college had on him. She discussed his addiction to alcohol and how it led to his body being unable to handle it, resulting in his death. She then spoke of the organization she created, “Don’t Stall, Just Call,” which is seen in various college campuses today! This extremely emotional and touching story influenced every student and truly did impact their lives. It gave them the perfect opportunity to hear of this tragedy so they can be well prepared to make good choices throughout their college experience.
         In addition to alcohol addictions, the topic of drug usage and addiction was spoken about. Daniel Regan, spoke of his life struggle with drug addiction. He informed the students about his poor choices and decisions at the start of his first year in college and how they impacted his life and family. He then discussed his ability to receive help in order to become sober. His life long journey was truly inspiring to all and was surely a surprise. The inspiration and knowledge that the students were able to receive from his speech was remarkable.
         Lastly, the final speaker was a police officer, Keith Cannata. He provided the students with a very informative lecture on safety. Through a series of pictures and videos he was able to teach the students how to remain safe around whatever environment they live in.For example, he explained many ways in which the students can refrain from danger throughout college campuses, cities, public transportation, buildings, and much more. His enthusiasm and knowledge truly helped the students grasp these important lessons which they can use throughout their everyday lives to stay out of trouble.
         Therefore, the Senior transition day was truly a success! With the help of the inspiring speakers, the Senior class at Saint Rose High School is most definitely prepared to take on the next stage in their lives!  

By Madison Kinnevy

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College Decision Spotlight

As the seniors approach the end of their time at Saint Rose they are beginning to finalize their plans for next year. For senior Lauren Taylor she plans to attend Drexel University in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania in the Fall. She is eager to begin the next steps of her education at Drexel and explore a new area. The Courier had the opportunity to sit down with Lauren and ask her questions about her college search process, future plans, and advice for underclassmen.

The Courier: Why did you decide to apply to Drexel?

Lauren Taylor: I chose to apply because it was a place where I could imagine myself going to there and it is the college I have envisioned myself attending.

TC: After getting accepted, why did you choose Drexel over the other schools you were accepted to?

LT: I love the campus, the city, and Drexel’s engineering program. With the program I will be doing three co-ops in five years and be able to work towards a masters degrees during my time as an undergrad. All of these opportunities are great for job placement.

TC: What is your intended major?

LT: I am majoring in biomedical engineering.

TC: What are you most excited about?

LT: I think I am most excited about living in a city and being free to explore it throughout college.

TC: What is something you will miss about Saint Rose?

LT: I am going to miss my friends that I have made at Saint Rose.

TC: What is your advice for underclassmen who are beginning the college search process?

LT: I think it is important to leave your options open because you never know what school you will like. Don’t choose not to visit or apply to a school because you don’t think it’s good. You never know what school you might like so be open to every option. Another thing that helped me in my search was to figure out a location that I really wanted to be in and look at schools there.

Congratulations to Lauren on her acceptance to Drexel’s Class of 2022 and her decision! We wish Lauren the best of luck next year at Drexel!

By Sheila Magrini

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Preview of Spring Sports

Although the groundhog said six more weeks of winter, spring is fast approaching, and with it comes new sports! The most popular spring sports include baseball, softball, track, lacrosse, golf, and tennis. Fortunately, Saint Rose High School offers the opportunity for all students to play any of these during the season. The following encompasses detailed descriptions of Baseball and Lacrosse, Saint Rose’s largest spring sports teams.

Baseball is a ball game played between two teams on a diamond-shaped field with four bases, with the intention of circling the bases to score a run. Saint Rose has a Freshman, Junior Varsity, and Varsity Boys Baseball team. Both JV and Varsity’s first game is March 9th. St. Rose also offers Varsity Softball, which has very similar rules to baseball, except it is usually played with a different field with a different ball. The softball team’s first game is March 15th.

Lacrosse is also a game played between two teams, which a ball is thrown, caught, carried, and shot into a goal using a long-handled stick with netting. Saint Rose has Girls and Boys Junior Varsity and Varsity teams. The dates of each lacrosse team’s first games are as follows: Boys Varsity and Junior Varsity on March 15th, and Girls Varsity and Junior Varsity on March 23rd.

The Courier interviewed Dillon Ventura, Saint Rose Senior, about the upcoming season. Dillon stated, “I am extremely excited for spring sports. I enjoy going to baseball and lacrosse games and supporting my friends that are on the team. The Belmar Zoo, including me, always get really hyped during intense games. Watching my friends play is a lot of fun, especially when the spring weather is nice and warm.”

Make sure to go out and support all of Saint Rose’s spring athletes. Good luck to all spring sports teams and go Purple Roses!

By Maddy Looney ’18

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Pre-ACT

This year St. Rose will be offering the Pre-ACT, an exam that mimics the ACT in a shorter time span offering all 4 subjects the ACT covers: English, Math, Reading, and Science; this exam will be administered for Freshman, Sophomores, and Juniors on Wednesday, March 14th with a 12:30 dismissal. The Pre-ACT will be graded on the same 1-36 scale as the ACT, and will help students reach a good score when they take this test in the future. This test will expose students to the format of the ACT exam and help them to reach their best score, and students also have the opportunity to share their information with colleges and scholarship agencies. The test will be 1 hour and 55 minutes long. This is a great addition and opportunity for the underclassman who also take the PSAT. These exams are great practice for the real exam and allow you to see areas in which you need more practice, and where your score falls. The official ACT website can give you ACT vocabulary and ACT Questions of the Day to help you prepare, the following website can help you prepare:

https://www.act.org/content/act/en/products-and-services/the-act/test-preparation/math-practice-test-questions.html?page=0&chapter=0

The official ACT website has resources and study guides you can utilize in order to prepare for the exam.

By Katherine Flynn ’18

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What Catholic School Means to Me

Catholic schools are an essential part of the Church and are Christ-centred communities based on gospel values. Catholic education strives to make a difference in the lives of individuals and in the wider community.  They do this by challenging young people, through God, to find meaning and value in their lives and reach their full potential as compassionate, contributing, life-giving members of society who are highly skilled, informed, tolerant, open and just.  

I asked a senior here at Saint Rose High School, Lauren Taylor, “what does Catholic school mean to you?”.  Her response was, “Catholic school has been a big part of my life for as long as I can remember. I attended St. Aloysius Grammar School for 10 years and continue my Catholic education here at Saint Rose High School.  I could not picture my life without it and I am so lucky to have Catholic education in my life. Catholic school helps me to place value in my relationship with God and my relationships with others.” Many other students can agree with the Lauren’s appreciation to Catholic education.

In my own life, Catholic school is a blessing that I am fortunate enough to have in my life.  This prayer for students demonstrates my appreciation:

“Prayer for Students-

Lord, Our God,

In your wisdom and love

You surround us with the mysteries

Of the universe.  Send your spirit upon

These students and fill them with your

wisdom and blessing.  Grant that they

May devote themselves to their studies

And draw ever closer to you, the source

of all knowledge. We ask this

through Christ, Our Lord.

Amen.”

 Each day, I am filled with God’s love in a school dedicated to making everyone feel welcomed.  I, along with everyone that takes part in Catholic education, am beyond happy to come to school each day and further my religion and education in one place.

By Emily Brown ’18