Vol. 54 Issue 7 Saint Joseph Regional High School, Montvale, NJ Wednesday, December 21st, 2016

The Guardian St. Joe’s Starts Roberto Clemente Club

By Scott Dickson ‘18He gave the term “complete” a new meaning. He made the word “superstar” seem inadequate. He had about him the touch of royalty – Baseball Commissioner Bowie Kuhn during Roberto Clemente’s 1973 eulogy. Roberto Clemente was one of the greatest baseball players that ever lived. He played 18 seasons, all with the Pittsburgh Pirates. He batted a remarkable .317 and is one of 30 men had over 3,000 hits. Many consider him the “Mount Rush-more” of the Pittsburgh Pirates.

However, Clemente’s life went far beyond baseball. Outside of the game, he spent his time helping others less fortunate than he was. He accomplished many charitable works, most famously being a major part of the relief effort during the aftermath of the 1972 Nicaragua earthquake. However, in an attempt to deliver supplies to victims of the earthquake, he died in a plane crash on New Year’s Eve. Ever since his tragic death, many have worked to continue the charitable work of Clemente’s life.

St. Joe’s senior baseball players ConorMcCabe and Brandon Maravi have co-founded the newest club at SJR. The Roberto Clemente Club honors the man they both consider their role model.

As avid baseball fans, they recognize how astonishing a man Clemente was on the field, but more important off the field.

Maravi feels an especially strong connec-tion to Clemente, as they both share Puerto Rican descent. He wants to honor the man who meant so much to Puerto Rico. The two realize the greatness of what Clemente did, and they want to partake in charity, just like their role model. Clemente said, ‘’Any time you have an opportunity to make a differ-ence in this world and you don’t, then you are wasting your time on Earth.’’

McCabe and Maravi both share the same goals for the club. They want to commemo-rate Clemente and his selfless work, and help as many disadvantaged people as possible. At the same time, they want to leave a personal imprint on their local communi-ties. “Our goal is to show as many people

as possible how lucky we are and how we should value the opportunities we are given,” said McCabe.

The Roberto Clemente Club is currently hosting a collection for used sports equipment. Club members set up boxes for collection around the school, and are also going door-to-door in search of used sports equipment. Their future plans extend beyond sports equipment, as Clemente’s life extend-ed beyond sports. Future collection ideas include collections around all the major holidays, as well as collecting supplies for areas overcome by natural disasters.

Brandon Maravi said, “St. Joe’s has done a great job teaching us the value of service. We have the resources and I hope that we can get everyone in our school community involved in honoring this Major League Baseball and humanitarian legend through the Roberto Clemente Club.”

Merry Christmas from Mr. Purcella, Mrs. Julie Van Dyken, Mrs. Debbie Hurtt, Mrs. Michele LaRocca & Mrs. Janine Rodriguez. Their Top-10

Christmas movies are on pages 6 and 7.

Photo by Mr. Mackie

2 The Guardian, Wednesday, December 21st, 2016

Opinion

Co-Editors-in-Chief: Conor McCabe, Colin Medwick Managing Editors: Scott Dickson, Nathan TomboLayout Editor: Alec GoodmanPhotography Editor: Stephen ChimentiSports Editors: Zach Epstein, Ryan SorannoEntertainment Editor: Luke BerningerPhotographers: Bryan Latawiec, Jared Martinez, Ryan PowellStaff Writers: Patrick Breen, Luke Brouwer, Kyle Clark, Andrew Del Priore, Cole Garabed, Aidan Kelly, Ryan Hilliard, Gavin HughesModerators: Mrs. LoBianco, Mr. Mackie

The Guardian StaffPlease email Letters to the Editor to sjrguardian@gmail.com

Trump’s Controversial Cabinet & the EPA

By Luke Brouwer ‘18Many strides have been recently made in Donald Trump’s presidential transition process. The most notable of these advancements has been the nomination of several import-ant cabinet members such as Rick Perry for Energy, Scott Pruitt for EPA and Rex Tillerson for Secretary of State.

Although these selections have been highly lauded by Trump and his team, members of the media and other poli-ticians have pointed out the obvious conflicts of interest that accompany each of these nominees.

Rick Perry faces an especially unique dilemma. Perry’s unsuccessful 2012 run for president is most remembered for a debate in which he forgot the name of the third cabinet department he would eliminate if elected. It was a memora-ble gaffe. However, the most interesting part of the anecdote is that the department Perry forgot was the Department of Energy, which he is now nominated to lead.

Perry is not the only nominee who appears to be opposed to the bureau he might lead. EPA nominee Pruitt is famous for the two lawsuits he is currently engaged in with the EPA.  Both Pruitt and Trump have called global warming a hoax and believe it to not have as much of an impact on the world as scientists claim.

Recently, Reince Priebus, Mr. Trump’s Chief of Staff, clar-ified the president-elect’s stance: “As far as this issue on

climate change, the only thing he was saying, after being asked a few questions about it, is, ‘Look, I’ll have an open mind about it. But he has his default position, which is that most of it is a bunch of bunk. But he’ll have an open mind and listen to people.’”

Despite an extreme amount of criticism, it appears the president-elect may have a method to his madness. Trump has chosen to follow a strategy that Ronald Reagan used with the Inter-state Commerce Commission during his presi-dency. Essentially, by nominating a person who is completely opposed to the actions and ideals of the department he will be in charge of, Trump can effectively neutralize that department and its impact without having to appeal to Congress and have the department officially shut down. Al-though, this may be an effective method for neu-tralizing a department, the question of whether the department has been effective in the past, and if it provides a useful service, still arises.

Global warming has indeed been proven by many scientists to be an issue that greatly impacts our earth and environ-ment. However the area in which scientists disagree is whether or not humans are the number one contributor to this issue. Trump has taken the hard stance that global warming is not man-made and is actually a lot less of a threat than people perceive it as. While many argue with Trump’s unconventional beliefs, measures could be taken to fund research into the true root of global warming, instead of Trump effectively shutting down the agency that can most significantly help with this hot button issue.  

Regardless of how a person may feel about the legitimacy of global warming or the usefulness of the energy department, it is doubtful that this was actually an ingenious move by Trump.

Scott Pruitt, the current Attorney General of Oklahoma, is Donald Trump’s pick to head the EPA. Pruitt has been critical of the agency.

The Guardian, Wednesday, December 21st, 2016 3

End Federal Subsidies: Raise the Minimum WageOpinion

By Colin Medwick ‘17The federal minimum wage was a major economic talking point during the presidential campaign season. Hillary Clinton called for a $12 federal minimum wage, less than her opponent Bernie Sanders’ “Fight for $15” campaign. President-Elect Donald Trump, on the other hand, has said wages are too high and he would not raise the federal mini-mum wage of $7.25. Currently, minimum wage beyond the $7.25 minimum is handled by the states, and economists fail to agree on whether raising the federal minimum wage would increase unemployment.

Some consider the low minimum wages across the country “corporate welfare,” arguing that it is government support of private business. For example, a group study in 2014 showed that Walmart’s low-wage workers cost taxpayers $6.2 billion annually in public assistance programs. The amount of a living wage varies from state to state. In New Jersey, MIT estimates a living wage for a full-time worker is $12.64/hour, increasing to $25.38 if that worker is a parent.

The minimum wage in New Jersey remains substantially low compared to this figure at $8.38/hour. In 2017, it will increase a whopping six cents. Governor Christie vetoed a bill proposing a statewide minimum wage of $15/hour in August.

It is fairly rational that some are wary to increase the minimum wage that much. A minimum wage raise of $6 dollars is unprecedented in economic study, leading to the disagreement regarding it. However, some cities in America have already begun implementing a $15 wage, and it has resulted in economic prosperity.

Seattle raised its minimum wage to $15/hour in April 2015. While some predicted an economic catastrophe, the results have been extremely promising. Despite what critics said, Seattle’s labor market has continued to thrive, with a job-growth rate triple the national av-erage. City unemployment has hit a new cycle low of 3.4%, and a University of Washington study showed little to no evidence of job losses or business closings. In theory, many econo-mists believe the increase gave workers more disposable income, which gave them an in-centive to spend. In the long run, this created more spending and less saving, which is good news for the local economy.

The economics of a minimum wage has been a subject of ideological debate for decades. The question today becomes why do we contin-ue to ignore data in places that have already

taken the leap to $15/hour? There’s little evidence to support the belief that a minimum wage increase spikes unemploy-ment.

Something these critics don’t realize is that all Americans suffer from others not getting paid a living wage. If their fellow citizens cannot afford to live or support a child, they will resort to government assistance. It’s time for us as a country to ask ourselves an important question – why are taxpayers subsidizing labor costs for corporations like Walmart and Home Depot, which profited a combined $26.2 billion in 2015?

Another common misconception is that the minimum wage mostly applies to teens working low hours to get some extra spending money. In our home state, this is far from the truth. 91% of workers making minimum wage are adults. 61% are working full time, and about half have graduated from or attended college. Nearly one in three is a parent, and 21% of New Jersey’s children have at least one low-paid working parent.

The disappointing reality is that egregious income inequali-ty affects all of us in America, whether you know it or don’t. If you pay taxes, you are footing the bill for major corpora-tions to pay minimum wage and increase profits. It’s not a coincidence that the family who owns Walmart owns more wealth than 40% of Americans combined, and the gap be-tween the rich and the poor is drastically increasing. Every-day taxpayers are getting played. It is time for us to step off of our ideological high horse and care about the minimum wage, because it affects all of us.

New Jersey Governor Chris Christie has said he’s “tired” of hearing about the minimum wage and criticized raising it.

NewsSt. Joe’s Mock Trial Visits Bergen County Court

4 The Guardian, Wednesday, December 21st, 2016

The Mock Trial Team visited the Bergen County Justice Center in Hackensack on Tuesday, December 6, 2016.

The group toured the court and then sat in on a criminal court proceeding dealing with a commercial bribery charge against a prominent physician. They heard both prosecution and defense opening statements and the prosecutor’s direct examination of his first witness, a twice-convicted man pre-viously found guilty of racketeering and bribery.

“It was very cool to hear the beginning of this case,” said Freshman Chris Flug. “It sounds like it will be an import-ant one. Our guide told us we were lucky because not too many visitors get to see the kind of excitement we witnessed today.”

Before the opening statements the judge, Bergen County Superior Court Justice Christopher Kazlau, took a few min-utes speak to speak with the group. “A lot of people don’t understand how important this is – getting young people involved and interested in this process,” Judge Kazlau said. “One day, one of you guys will be on that judge’s bench or in those attorneys’ chairs, and we owe it to you to get you excited about that now.”

Mock Trial is an activity sponsored by the New Jersey Bar Foundation. It’s designed to help students learn about court proceedings and the basics of trial law. A nation-wide event, Mock Trial competitions happen throughout the country, starting on the county level in February, and culminating in the national championship in March. Last year, Newark di-ocese school Oratory Prep competed in the national round after defeating Bergen Catholic to earn the berth represent-ing New Jersey. 

In many schools that participate in Mock Trial, the activity ends once the school loses a competition round. At SJR, Mock Trial will run as a year-round club, and will continue to prepare sample cases to help ensure a strong showing in the 2017-18 season.

“While the club seems like it’d be a natural fit for students considering a career in law or politics, it’s also a fantastic venue for students who interested in drama, writing, public speaking, and debate,” said Mr. Vreeland, the club modera-tor. “Though our team for this year’s competition is set, we welcome anybody who’s interested to come by a meeting and learn more about Mock Trial.”

Day in Court: The St. Joe’s Mock Trial team met with Bergen County Superior Court Justice Christopher Kazlau on December 6. From left: Paul Szabo ‘20, Frank Ballante ‘20, Peter Altenbach ‘20, Ryan Collins ‘20, Gavin Hughes ‘20, Christopher

Flug ‘20, The Honorable Christopher Kazlau, Carlos Buelvas ‘20, Sebastian McChesney ‘20, Christopher Thomasian ‘18, Declan Henry ‘20, Luke Brouwer ‘18, Christian Sodora ‘20, Scott Dickson ‘18, Mr. Vreeland.

Photo Courtesy of Mr. Vreeland

The Guardian, Wednesday, December 21st, 2016 5

NewsCheckmate: Alumnus’s Son Swaps Moves with Chess ClubBy Alec Goodman ‘18Everyone is aware of St. Joe’s championship sports teams and award-winning theater program, but most people don’t know what happens on Tuesdays and Thursdays after school in the Media Center. With over 20 members, the Chess Club is quickly becoming a favorite activity among Green Knights.

One man who caught sight of the club was alumnus Jay Hood ‘88. Despite not knowing how to play the game himself, Hood has two sons who are avid chess players. He thought it would be a good idea to bring his boys to his alma mater and have them compete against members of the SJR Chess Club.

On Thursday, December 1st, Hood arrived along with his seven-year-old son Quinlan and his ten-year-old son Avery. Both boys, despite their age, are exceptional chess players. Avery was assigned the task of playing against eight club members at the same time. He did this by making a move on one board, then quickly moving to the next while his opponent from the previous board made his move. Avery was able to do this with all eight boards.

The first opponent fell quickly. Then, after about 20 minutes, only half of the challengers were left. The last checkmate didn’t happen until an hour-and-a-half after the contest be-gan. Although no St. Joe’s student was able to upset Avery, it was an enjoyable event for everyone. To top it all off, Hood donated two chess board tables with the pieces and a special chess timer to the club.

Avery began playing chess when he was five. A few years later, he began to com-pete in tournaments against other kids. Once someone begins competing in tournaments, he is assigned a chess rat-ing based on his ability. The top players in the world, known as the grandmas-ters, have a rating of over 2500. Avery’s current rating is 1612.

Recently the Hood family traveled all the way to Tennessee to compete in the National Youth Chess Champion-ships. The family also travels regularly to Pennsylvania, New York, and New Jersey to compete. They show up empty handed but often leave with trophies that tower over Avery and Quinlan. With such positive results at such a young age there is no telling what the potential is for these two in the future.

Being an experienced chess player myself, I found it very exciting to hear that Hood would be coming with his two sons. I began playing in the 4th grade when I joined my school’s chess club and began competing in tournaments. Although I never made it to the national tournament in Tennessee, I once achieved a rating of 1300. Somewhere in my closet lies a box of my old trophies. Chess is a game that will stick with me for the rest of my life.

Another positive aspect about the Chess Club is the con-nection SJR’s students, especially our foreign students, have made with other members. Chess is played all over Asia, and many of our students from there have joined the club.

“Chess has certainly been a commonality for the students,” said Ms. Sullivan, moderator of the Chess Club. “It is amazing to watch the kids interact with one another over the game. It definitely serves as an icebreaker for the foreign students who don’t know much about this school to make new friends. Often times the kids won’t let me close the Me-dia Center until their game is finished!” Certainly the club has formed many new friendships among students.

Anyone is welcome to join the Chess Club. Please speak with Mrs. Sullivan or the club’s president Casey Hill ‘17. Chess can seem like a difficult game, but once you know how to play your enjoyment will last a lifetime.

Fair Fight: 1 against 8? Avery Hood, the 10-year-old son of SJR alumnus Jay Hood ‘88, played eight members of the SJR Chess Club simultaneously on December 1.

Photo by Stephen Chimenti ‘17

6 The Guardian, Wednesday, December 21st, 2016

Top-10 Christmas MoviesGrinch, Scrooge, Clark Griswold & George BaileyBy Mr. Joe PurcellaA Christmas Story (1983) – Based on the novel In God We

Trust, All Others Pay Cash by Jean Shep-herd, it represents the simplicity of the 1940s. A young boy named Ralphie at-tempts to convince his parents, his teacher, and anyone else who will listen, including Santa that a Red Ryder B.B. gun really is the perfect Christmas gift. If you have

never seen this movie, I Triple-Dog-Dare You!!!!

Christmas Vacation (1989) – Since its release in 1989, Christmas Vacation has been considered a modern Christmas classic. With Christmas only a few weeks away, Chicago resident Clark Griswold (Chevy Chase) decides it is time for a “Good Old Family Christmas,” which predictably leads to an array of cata-strophic events.

The Polar Express (2004) – Does Santa Claus really exist? A young boy who is struggling with his own belief of Santa Claus embarks on an enchanted adventure to the North Pole on a magical train called the Polar Express. During his journey he learns about friend-ship, bravery, and the spirit of Christmas. For many reasons this Christmas movie

will always bring tears to your eyes with a single word: BELIEVE

It’s a Wonderful Life (1946) – “Flat-out” a Christmas clas-sic and a must-watch on Christmas Eve. Clarence illustrates to George Bailey the influence George has on the people around him and how life would be completely different if he was not an active participant in their lives. In the end George concludes that life is wonderful and decides not to do

the unthinkable.

Miracle on 34th Street (1947) – Released in 1947, it made the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade an American institution. It has gone on to become a holiday classic that continues to be shown yearly. Its upbeat story and warm-hearted message of generosity and faith remain more relevant today than ever before.

A Christmas Carol (1938) – There have been numerous versions of the Charles Dickens classic, but the 1938 movie staring Reginald Owen as Scrooge holds a special place in my heart. This was the first Christmas movie I can remem-

ber watching with my father as a child. On Christmas Eve, an old miser named Ebenezer Scrooge is visited by the spirit of his former partner, Jacob Marley. Marley in his lifetime was as mean and miserly as Scrooge. Marley is haunting him to warn him to change his ways or face the conse-

quences in the afterlife.

The Santa Clause (1994) – Staring Tim Allen as Santa, it has become a family favorite during the holiday season. The Santa Clause provides answers to age-old questions of the magic of Santa and turns them into facts to the many children who wanted answers to how reindeer fly or how Santa gets into a home with no chimney.

Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer (1964) – Most people know the Christmas tale of Rudolph and how he guides Santa’s sled on Christmas Eve, but the 1964 version offers such a warm and cheerful viewing experience to audiences of all ages. It’s a must-watch and the un-official start of the Christmas season. Sam the snowmen narrates the movie and takes

you through the trials and tribulations of the young Ru-dolph, as he embarks on his adventure into adulthood and fame. Who doesn’t love Yukon Cornelius, the Abominable Snowman, Hermey the elf who wants to be a dentist, or the Island of Misfit Toys?

A Charlie Brown Christmas (1965) – The Charles Schulz classic cartoon brings the true meaning of Christmas back into focus. Charlie Brown has the yuletide blues and cannot get into the holiday spirit based on all the com-mercialism in the world. In an attempt to get back into the holiday spirit, he directs the Christmas play. In true Charlie Brown

fashion, poor Chuck makes the mistake of following his heart and brings back a small and insignificant looking tree that in his mind needed LOVE.

The Grinch Who Stole Christmas (1965) – Bitter and hateful, the Grinch is irritated at the thought of the nearby village having a happy time celebrating Christmas. Disguised as Santa Claus, with his dog Max, which the Grinch made to look like a reindeer, he raids the village and steals all that represents Christ-mas. In the Grinch’s mind he is sure that

the village will have a sad and miserable Christmas this year.

The Guardian, Wednesday, December 21st, 2016 7

Kris Kringle, Kevin McCallister & BuddyTop-10 Christmas Movies

By Mrs. Julie Van Dyken, Mrs. Debbie Hurtt, Mrs. Michele LaRocca & Mrs. Janine Rodriguez

Mrs. Van Dyken, Mrs. Hurtt, Mrs. LaRocca & Mrs. Rodriguez get into the Christmas spirit.

Christmas Vacation (1989) – Hard to resist Chevy Chase and his Vacation movies. Favorite part is when the family sits down for grace at dinner and the aunt recites the Pledge of Alle-giance. (ML)

Elf (2003) – Who else but Will Farrell could pull off wear-ing a pair of tights like that and burp after drinking a half gallon of coke and eating spaghetti with maple syrup?! But he did say, “We elves try to stick to the four main food groups: candy, candy canes, candy corns and syrup.” (DH/JR)

How the Grinch Stole Christmas (1966) – Dr. Seuss is a genius with words: “Oh, roast beast is a feast I can’t stand in the least”; “Then he slithered and slunk with a smile most unpleasant, around the whole room and took every present.” I still cry when Cindy Lou Who looks up with her big eyes at the Grinch as he steals her Christmas tree. (DH)

The Santa Clause (1994) – After Tim Allen accidentally kills a man in a Santa suit, he and his son are magically transported to the North Pole, where an elf explains that Allen must take Santa’s place before the next Christmas arrives. Love it when Allen morphs into Santa and his beard grows back instanta-

neously and he can’t control his weight. (JR)

Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer (1964) – Santa Claus: From what I see now, that will cut through the murkiest storm they can dish up. What I’m trying to say is, Rudolph, with your nose so bright, won’t you guide my sleigh to-night? Rudolph: It would be an honor, sir.Tough to beat Rudolph’s reaction when Clarisse calls him “cute” after seeing his

nose for the first time. (JVD)

Frosty the Snowman (1969) – Frosty has appeared on TV every Christmas season for 47 years. It has also launched sequels such as Frosty’s Winter Wonderland, Rudolph and Frosty’s Christmas in July, Frosty Returns and The Legend of Frosty the Snowman. Every time he melts, Frosty comes back, and says, “Happy Birthday” (JR)

Home Alone (1990) – Who has more fun: Macaulay Culkin foiling bungling thieves Joe Pesci and Dan-iel Stern, or these two veteran actors play-ing hopelessly incompetent burglars? Fun fact: The three Home Alone movies have grossed over $1 billion dollars (adjusted for inflation) at the box office(DH)

Santa Claus is Coming to Town (1970) – Features two of the best-known actors of the 20th Century – Bing Crosby and Mickey Rooney, but who remembers them today? Best scene: When Kris Kringle meets Jessica, the future Mrs. Kringle. They fall in love. The rest is history Christmas … (JR)

A Christmas Story (1983) – There are not any name ac-tors in the cast – Peter Billingsley, Scott Schwartz, Zach Ward, Ian Petrella and Melinda Dillon - but it is memorable when Schwartz gets his tongue stuck to a frozen pole (JVD)

Miracle on 34th Street (1947) – Kris Kringle is indignant to find that the man assigned to play Santa in the annual Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade is drunk. When he complains to the event director, she persuades Kringle to take his place. Best part is at the end when Natalie Wood, playing a young girl, gets the house of her dreams. (JR)

Photo by Mr. Mackie

8 The Guardian, Wednesday, December 21st, 2016

Christmas Past, Future Green Knights

From top right counterclockwise:

Santa and Johnny Caracciolo ‘20 ;

Eric Manfredonia ‘20 poses with Kris Kringle;

Angelo Pelosi ‘20 receives a gift from Santa Claus;

Jake Epstein ‘20 sits on the lap of his brother Zach ‘18.

The Guardian, Wednesday, December 21st, 2016 9

Christmas Past, Future Green Knights

From top left clockwise:

Dominic ‘20 and Anthony Delponte ‘18 with Mr. Christmas;

Nick Gambassi ‘20 sits on Santa’s lap;

James Devito ‘20 excited to see Santa;

Jack Rajkowski ‘18 sits with Saint Nicholas.

10 The Guardian, Wednesday, December 21st, 2016

EntertainmentRogue One, Prequel to A New Hope

By Luke Berninger ‘19Star Wars: Rogue One made $290 million worldwide in its first weekend, making it a galactic success. If you are a true Star Wars fan, you would have been anticipating this movie since it was announced and when you saw the first glimpse of the movie in the teaser trailer.

Many people do not realize that Rogue is not the sequel to the last movie The Force Awakens. Rogue is about the group of rebels who stole the plans for the space station The Death Star before the movie Star Wars: A New Hope. This means it isn’t about the main characters in other film like Luke and Rey. Instead it follows another hero and an elite group of freedom fighters. All the characters have their own back-story and special ability to help get the plans back to the rebel alliance. What ensues is an action-packed story with a meaningful connection with the overall narrative of Star Wars.

Rogue surrounds Jyn Erso, the daughter of the mastermind behind the Evil Empire’s new super-weapon, the infamous Death Star. When she finds out that her father is behind the planet-destroying weapon she takes it upon herself to join the fray. With her is an ensemble that assists her with the dangerous mission. They endure many problems on the way making the movie extremely eventful.

The group’s call-sign is Rogue One hence the movie’s title. Many fans will say that this movie is absolutely worth seeing especially if you love all the other Star Wars films. “Rogue One is the perfect love letter to A New Hope. Absolutely one of my favorite films of the year,” said Nick Berninger ‘16.

Rogue has gotten great reviews and has found huge success from its fan base and new fans alike. The film is fantastically fun and brings a new element to the revamped narrative.

My brother and I grew up obsessed with Star Wars and seeing this with him was just an amazing experience. It has the certain charm that only Star Wars films can pull off.

Also seeing Darth Vader back in action was epic and really brought back how scary the bad guys in Star Wars can be. Rogue ends right before the start of A New Hope so it really gives you a dose of nostalgia that is irresistible. Rogue ties in very nicely with all the other films and is a must-see for anyone who is familiar with Star Wars.

Ever since Disney bought Lucas Studios, the Star Wars movie franchise has been re-energized, pumping out a new movie each year. The next Star Wars film is Episode 8 following the storyline of Rey from the last film The Force Awakens. Then, there will be a Han Solo film focused around the beloved smuggler with a young actor to portray the older actor Harrison Ford’s signature role. After that the new trilogy will conclude with Episode 9, hopefully ending the mighty story of our heroin Rey.

It is also rumored that there will be a stand-alone film of the epic bounty hunter Boba Fett. I am excited to see what the following films have for us die-hard fans of a favorite sci-fi franchise.  

Rogue One took in $290 million in its opening weekend. This made Disney the 1st movie studio to exceed $7 billion in ticket sales in a year.

The Guardian, Wednesday, December 21st, 2016 11

SportsBy the Numbers ... SJR Athletes of the Week

By Mr. Barry Donnelly ‘71The Athlete of the Week award, which has been presented by The Record for more than 50 years, is unique among athletic awards, since it recognizes an exceptional level of accom-plishment for just a single week of the year (Sunday to Sat-urday). Football players have just a single game in which to shine; athletes in other sports may have 2-3 games to earn their honors, depending on the week’s schedule. Some-times, the award is given to a “journeyman” athlete who happens to have a remark-able run of games in a given week; sometimes, it is presented to a superstar whose dominance leads, inevitably, to such rec-ognition. Either way, it is a unique honor, recognized in the gallery of artwork by the Record’s Charlie McGill outside the gym-nasium.

The 1st SJR Athlete of the Week was present-ed on May 14, 1968 to track star Kevin Clark ’68. The 67th honoree was Louis Acceus ’17, who was recognized for his remarkable performance on both sides of the ball during SJR’s 29-14 victory over St. Peter’s Prep in October.

So here is the story of SJR’s Athletes of the Week, by the numbers …

67 – Number of Athlete of the Week Honors earned by SJR students

23 – Number of Athlete of the Week Honors won by football players, remarkable partly because all of the awards are based on a single game14 – Number of Athletes of the Week who were

baseball players9 – Number of Wrestlers named Athlete of the

Week7 – Number of Track athletes named Athlete of the

Week6 – Number of Basketball players named Athlete of

the Week5 – Number of students who have been Athletes of the Week on two separate occasions: Max Mid-dendorf (hockey), Cooper Rego (football), Rory O’Donnell (wrestling), Spencer Aukamp (football) and Devin Ortiz (baseball).5 – Largest number of Athlete of the Week

honorees during a single school year – Brian Kearns (football), Jonathan Tropea (wrestling), Chauncy Hawkins (basketball) Devin Ortiz and John Mesagno (baseball) in 2015-16.3 – Number of brothers named Athletes of the Week: Karl and Erik Norgaard (both for wrestling), Ryan and Brendan Lobban (both for baseball) and Rob-

ert (baseball) and Anthony Ferla (football).

Incidentally, Brendan Lobban and Robert Ferla are themselves a unique

footnote in the history of the Ath-lete of the Week program. The

pair are the only dual recipients of the honor in the history of the program. Ferla threw a one-hitter against Clifton on a Monday, striking out 20 batters to tie the New Jersey state record. Two days later, Lobban tossed a no-hitter and struck out 21 batters

to set a new record. Both were also recognized by Sports

Illustrated for this truly remark-able (and probably never to be

matched) performance.

2 – Number of students named both Athlete of the Week and Scholar of the Week by the Bergen Record (Karl Norgaard and David Lehanski)1 – Number of bowlers and golfers named Athlete of the Week (Mike Dulisse – bowling and Eugen Pirovic - golfer).

And probably the record least likely to be broken, given the “perfect storm” of circumstances that would have to happen to achieve it:

1 – Number of students to capture Athlete of the Week honors in three consecutive seasons: Rob Kaminsky ’15 (baseball).

Interestingly enough, of all the SJR students who have gone on to play at the highest professional level - NFL football, MBS baseball, MLS soccer or NHL hockey - including John Flaherty ’85, Max Middendorf ’85, Tim Morabito ’91, Vincent Ciurciu ’98, Augie Hoffmann ’99, Devin and Jason McCourty ’05, Junior Galette ’06, K’waun Williams ’10, Tommy LaStella ’07, Patrick Kivlehan ’08, Matthew Turner ’12, only one earned Athlete of the Week honors: Max Mid-dendorf, though hopefully Rob Kaminsky will be joining those ranks in the near future!

Image by Ms. Sullivan

12 The Guardian, Wednesday, December 21st, 2016

SportsGreen Knights Football #1 in New Jersey

By Kyle Clark ‘18The Green Knights earned their #1 spot in the state through their effort and dominating performances throughout the season.  After a bye in the first round of the Group III play-offs, SJR crushed St. John Vianney 45-20 and moved on to the final battle of the year at MetLife against DePaul Catho-lic, whom they beat 38-21 on November 4.  

The two weeks of preparation were full of nothing but work for the Green Knights.  Players and coaches locked in on the championship game, as they were play-ing to redeem themselves of last year’s loss in the Group IV state championship game.

With the game approaching, Head Coach Augie Hoffmann ’99 reminisced on championship games he played in: “As a player some of my greatest memories while playing occurred during my time at SJR.  As a junior, we played arguably one of the greatest games in SJR history vs Bergen Catholic in the semi-finals.  We won that game and went on to beat Seton Hall Prep in the finals.  We finished #11 in the country, #1 in the Northeast and #1in NJ.  But as a senior we got beat by Bergen in the finals.  So, you could say I couldn’t be happier as a junior and sadder as a senior.”  

At 4 p.m. on Saturday, December 3 at MetLife Stadium the atmosphere was electric. The Green Knights came out strong, yet not as strong as they’d like.  At the end of the first quarter, the score was 7-7, after senior Nick Cantone caught a deep pass from junior Nick Patti.  

At half, St. Joe’s led 13-10. Then, after some anxious moments in the 3rd and 4th quarter SJR racked up another 13 points for the 26-17 win. The victory secured SJR’s 18th state title and 6th #1 in New Jersey.

“Greatest experience of my life,” said senior cap-tain Marc Doran. “It was awesome to be able to go out on top with my brothers.  Not many people see the work that we’ve been putting in nearly every day since the summer going into freshman year and to be able to finish on top is one of the greatest feelings in the world.”

Junior cornerback Jaden Budka said, “Winning states was one of the best feelings of my life and celebrating with everyone was truly amazing.  It was what we worked for all year and we achieved it.  We’re the #1 team in the state now for the next year.”

“This game was not for just our team this year but for all of the seniors last year, who had to go out the way they did,” said junior Evan Stewart, who earned 1st-team All-County honors for his play at defensive back. “That stuck with us and we didn’t want that to happen again for the seniors this year. Winning was the best feeling and even better feeling that we ended up #1 in the state.”

New York City Celebration: SJR football seniors traveled to New York City’s Times Square on December 7, where they were recognized at the 24th Annual Chuck Mound High School Sports Awards

as the #1 private school team.

Pregame Salute: Gerrit Van Itallie ‘17, who scored the game’s second touchdown, before kickoff at MetLife Stadium on Saturday December 3.

Photo by Karyn Ochiuzzo

Photo Courtesy of Mr. Hoffmann

The Guardian, Wednesday, December 21st, 2016 13

Sports26-17 Win vs. DePaul Secures 18th State Title

Junior linebacker Michael Marto said, “MetLife was some-thing we all have been talking about since the loss last year [in the state final]. The team knew this was our year and to come back and finish with a state championship is now a memory we all will never forget. This senior class was spe-cial and deserved nothing but a ring and to be the number one team in the state. Now it’s time for our underclass-men to step up and get ready for next season.”

The seniors of the foot-ball team couldn’t be any happier than they were ending their SJR careers on a victory at MetLife.  “Be-ing at MetLife and winning a state championship was an amazing experience. The team worked so hard this year and we accomplished our goal. I’m so happy with how much we grew as a team and how close we got with each other. It is a memory that will last for-ever,” said senior defensive back Anthony D’Apolito.  

Offensive Line Coach Frank Coccaro ‘01 was equally excited: “Winning a state championship is

Star-Spangled Banner: SJR Chorus members (L-R) Chris Marzulla ‘18, Luke Berninger ‘19, Patrick Breen ‘18, Nate Troche ‘18, Alex Birchwale ‘18, Bill Fitzpatrick ‘18, Vincent Simpson ‘18, and Charlie Cangelosi ‘18 sang the National Anthem.

always fun for a coach; however, it’s even a better feeling knowing that your seniors went out with a victory and saw their four-year investment of hard work in our program pay off their senior year,  especially going out as the best team in NJ their senior season – not only are they the best team in the state but they are also recognized as one of the top 25 teams in the country!”

Coccaro added, “This group of seniors have been through a lot of devastating losses (lost to Bergen twice in overtime, losing to Bosco in finals last year) it was great to see them get over the hump by beating Bergen this year and to win it all this year against a tough and determined DePaul team who had won three consecutive state championships. They were a great bunch of kids who worked their tails off and did everything Coach Hoffmann asked them to do! They left their mark as a legendary team by being only 1 of 6 teams in the Green Knight football program history of finishing the season # 1 in the state!”

Hoffmann said,  “Being able to win a state championship as a coach [his first as a head coach] is a tremendous feeling. The emotions were different than when I played but the feeling of accomplishment is the same. The biggest differ-ence now is being able to see all of the hard work our boys put into the season pay off on the state’s biggest stage.”

Big Augie, Little Augie: Coach Hoffmann gets a conrgratulatory hug from his father after the win.

Photo by Karyn Ochiuzzo

14 The Guardian, Wednesday, December 21st, 2016

Basketball’s Big 3: Hawkins, Hippolyte, RadiEpstein on Sports

It has come to be known that a basketball team cannot be championship caliber with just one or two stars, but with a “Big Three.” The Bulls had Jordan, Pippen and Rodman, the Heat had James, Wade and Bosh and the Green Knights have Hawkins, Radi and Hippolyte.

“Anytime we step out onto the court with those three guys leading the group, we know we have a great chance of com-peting with just about any team,” said assistant basketball Coach Mr. Daniel Davis ‘99. “They led this team the past few seasons and now, in their final year with us, we know that they have a lot more to show us.”

Fresh from the 2016 Bergen County Championship, the Green Knights are looking to do more than just repeat; they have state title aspirations. That dream rests on the shoul-ders and on the dynamic play of this senior trio.

Chauncey B. Hawkins IV (Senior/Guard): “He is an abso-lutely electrifying player who can beat you on both ends of the court, whether he drops 30 points on you or forces eight turnovers,” said teammate Anthony D’Apolito ‘17. “He makes at least one play per game where you just scratch your head and turn to the guy next to you to ask if he really just did that.”

The 5’9”, 150-pound guard solidified himself as one of the top players in the state last season, averaging 17 points and six assists per game. Hawkins’s highlight came in the state playoff win over Hudson Catholic – he dropped 30 points for which he won The Record’s Athlete of the Week. “Our team this year is filled with a bunch of talented guys from

different grades,” said Hawkins. “As we continue to devel-op more chemistry we will be a force to be reckoned with because of our camaraderie.”

Joseph Radi (Senior/Forward): “JoJo is one of the most con-sistent players we have on the team,” said teammate Dorian Hardy ‘18. “You can count on him to go out every game and not only give you 110%, but some much needed points.”

“JoJo,” a Spring Valley native, stands at 6’5”, 250 lbs. making him a nightmare for opposing defensive schemes. Known by teammates as a vocal and emotional leader, Radi will bring some much-needed guidance to a team hoping to find themselves back in state playoff contention. “I think our team will do well this year as long as we are working hard day-in and day-out,” Radi said. “Everyone on our team is capable of making an impact on the game, and we need everyone to play their roles if we are going to get to where we want to be.”

Isaac Hippolyte (Senior/Forward): “When Isaac gets hot there is no player like him,” said teammate Drew Hliboki ‘18. “When it rains, it pours with him and he is on a whole different level. His experience will also be extremely ben-eficial when it comes to developing our younger group of big men.” When you’re 6’6” and averaged a “double-double” for the season, teams will tend to strategize their defensive game plan around you. A lot of a game plan will be tailored around you when you are a menace in the paint and a de-fensive cornerstone for you team.

“I feel as if this year we have a opportunity to go further than we did last year due to the fact that we have a really hard working group who have our standard set high and wont accept anything less,” said Hippolyte. “We could switch in and out of positions which makes our team extremely versatile and dangerous.”

The Green Knights look to build upon last year’s suc-cess on the backs of the “Big Three” and the guidance of Mr. Michael Doherty ’82, who has over 400 wins as he begins his 28th season as the varsity head coach.

“Coach Doherty is a very tough coach that wants ev-eryone to play with heart.” said Radi. “He has taught me a lot since I came to St. Joe’s and I’m blessed to have such an experienced coach like him.” The Green Knights are currently ranked #17 in NJ.com’s Top-20.

“This season will be different from last because it is the last for the seniors and me,” said Hawkins. “Every game means that much more for us and me as an individual. We need to go out and play like today can be our last game because it can be.” Senior Leadership: Joe Radi, Chauncey Hawkins & Issac Hippolyte re-

turn as starters for the defending Bergen County Jamboree Champions.

Photo by Karyn Ochiuzzo

The Guardian, Wednesday, December 21st, 2016 15

Posta Leads Hockey to 4-1 StartSports

By Nathan Tombo ‘17

By Cole Garabed ‘17

Bowling 5-0; Tombo Rolls 728 Series

The Green Knights hockey team has many new faces replac-ing the nine starters from last season. Despite its youth, the boys in Green & Gold have started with a 4-1 record.

SJR defeated Pascack Valley in its first game. Dom Posta ’17 scored four goals, Aiden Grieco ’19 notched two and Cole Garabed ’17, James Durante ’17, Chris Thomasian ’18, and Brandon Hudon ’19 each scored once.

SJR had much to prove against Ramsey: last year the Rams

defeated the Green Knights in the Bergen County semifinals; this year Ramsey was ranked #14 in Newjersey, one spot in front of SJR. The Green Knights dominated in the shot department, but the score was deadlocked 0-0 until late in the 2nd period when Durante sent a quick shot over the shoulder of the Rams’ goalie. SJR continued to dictate play but didn’t score again and notched 1-0 win.

Northern Highlands was projected to be one of St. Joe’s toughest opponents of season. After falling behind by two early in the game, Garabed rifled a shot past the glove of Highland’s goalie. However, The Green Knights soon found themselves down 6-1. SJR suffered its first loss of the season.

St. Joe’s bounced back from the tough loss and beat North-ern Valley Old Tappan 6-1. Posta scored twice and Aiden Grieco, Connor Grieco ’19, Nick Burk ’17 and Karsten Lusk ’17 all got their names on the score sheet. On Sunday, they avenged their loss against Highlands with a 1-0 win. Pat Lynch was sensational in net.

The Green Knights’ depth will be tested with upcoming games against Morristown, Seton Hall Prep and Roxbury.

Seniors James Durante, Cole Garabed, and Dominick Posta all wear the “C” this year for the Green Knights.

Photo by Jared Martinez ‘18

The SJR bowling team is off to its best start in recent years.

To begin the season, the team finished in 1st place at the Big North United Preseason Tournament on 12/8, edging out all league competitors Bergen Catholic, DePaul, Don Bosco, and Paramus Catholic by over 150 pins. In this tournament, team captain Nathan Tombo ‘17 placed 1st individually and James Reagan-Ward placed 3rd. This tournament was a huge confidence builder for members on the team.

Seniors Antonio Sirianni, Reagan-Ward, and Tombo will use their experience to lead freshmen Ray Schmitt and Ross Foothorap. The success for the team relies heavily on consistent performances during league matches.

This year, SJR is coming in as a favorite to win the league title, but will have to con-tend with tough competition.

The team is currently 5-0, as it picked up 7-0 wins against Hackensack, Dumont, DePaul, and Don Bosco and a close 4-3 win against Lakeland.

Most recently, Tombo averaged just over 242 per game, bowling a 728 series against league rival, DePaul Catholic, Tuesday. The team hopes to carry its success into their final match before Christmas break against Bergen Catholic this Thursday.

Senior Nathan Tombo lines up a strike.

St. Joe’s 2-1 after Wins vs. Queen of Peace, PC

16 The Guardian, Wednesday, December 21st, 2016 Sports

By Ryan Soranno ‘16

Photo Courtesy of NJ.com

The 2016 Jamboree Champions recently returned to the hardwood for their season opener Saturday afternoon. SJR basketball came out of the gates hot as they outscored Queen of Peace in every quarter leading to a 61-34 victory. The Green Knights outshot Queen of Peace with 19 field goals compared to their opponent’s four field goals.

Although the season looks bright, big time scorers and key role players from last season were lost due to graduation. These players include offensive stud Nate Garvey ‘16 and defensive powerhouse, J.T. Giles-Harris ‘16. Nate Garvey canned over 1,000 points throughout his 4 years at SJR and was a major part of one of the deadliest backcourts in the county consisting of himself and Chauncey Hawkins ‘17. “The loss of Nate will certainly be felt, especially early on in the season as guys move into different offensive roles. However, we’ve still got one of the top guards in New Jersey in Chauncey, and a great group of hardworking guys. So, I have strong confidence that as the season progresses, our perimeter will be a strong aspect of our team identity,” says head coach Michael Doherty ‘82.

Coach Doherty also commented on who will have a major defensive presence now that J.T. Giles-Harris is not in the lineup. “I hope that our entire team will contribute to making us one of the tougher defensive teams in North Jersey. I think that sophomore, Smith Vilbert, can be a real defensive presence for us. He has been very effective so far and will only get better as we get deeper into the season.”

The second game of the 2016-2017 season took place in the Tip-Off Hoop Group Showcase at Caldwell University. SJR found themselves struggling against a greatly coached and talented team in St. Anthony’s. Although SJR matched St. Anthony’s with ten field goals, St. Anthony’s won this game from behind the arc. St. Anthony’s scored seven three-point field goals to the Green Knight’s three field goals. Other than a good 3rd quarter from the Green Knights, St. An-thony’s had control of this game. “We did not play to our full potential against St. Anthony’s and as a team we will learn from this loss. This game shows that we have a lot to work on but as a team we can conquer that challenge,” says guard Chauncey Hawkins, who had eleven points in the showcase loss.

With a .500 record going into their third regular sea-son game, SJR knew they had to send a message early on against Paramus Catholic. The Green Knights ended the first quarter up 17-7 and never took their foot off the pedal. Joseph Radi ‘17 dropped sixteen points while shooting 50% from the floor.

He also shot 50% from behind the arc. Chauncey Hawkins ‘17 showed how well he could distribute the ball by lead-ing the team with seven assists. He also tagged on more more points for the Green Knights. Smith Vilbert ‘19 had a defensive presence that Coach Doherty was looking as he protected the rim with three blocked shots. He also con-trolled the boards with Isaac Hippolyte ‘17, as they totalled for fifteen rebounds. The game ended 59-34, a convincing victory for the Green Knights.

The next game on the team’s schedule is one that is defi-nitely circled on Coach Doherty’s calendar. The game is on Thursday, 12/22, against a very strong Bergen Catholic team. “It’s going to be a very tough battle. We know that we are both very talented teams and that we both want to win this game badly, especially this early in the season. We are going to be very prepared for this game and focused,” says forward Joseph Radi ‘17.

Senior Anthony D’Apolito goes in for a layup during SJR’s 61-34 victory against Queen of Peace.