Photo courtesy boysandgirlsclubofmilford.com)

By Samiksha Mehta – Entertainment Editor

Jonathan Law senior Mike Loschiavo recently won the Boys and Girls Club of Milford’s Youth of the Year Award. The Youth of the Year Award is presented to one teenager every year by the Boys and Girls Club of Milford to award and signify their leadership, community service, academic excellence, and dedication to living a healthy lifestyle. Entertainment Editor Samiksha Mehta interviewed Loschiavo about winning the award.

Samiksha Mehta: How did it feel to receive the Youth of the Year Award?

Mike Loschiavo: It felt great to receive the Youth of the Year Award because I feel like I put a lot of time into the Boys and Girls Club of Milford and it was a great achievement for me because I always aspired to one day be the YOTY.

SM: What are the qualifications for the Youth of the Year Award?

ML: Youth of the Year is part of the Boys and Girls Club of America’s premiere recognition program. It celebrates young people, ages 14-18, for their commitment to community service, academic success, good character, citizenship, and establishment of long-term goals.

SM: Does the Youth of the Year Award have any special significance to you?

ML: Yes, because I was a club kid once and I always looked up to young teens that received this award and now I feel like my dream has come true by receiving this award myself.

SM: What was the most difficult challenge for you in winning Youth of the Year?

ML: It’s a great honor to be the Youth of the Year because it’s something that’s really hard to get. Before advancing on to the next round, you need to speak in front of judges and have a well-written speech prepared.

SM: What does Youth of the Year mean to you?

ML: It feels extremely great to receive this award because young people look up to getting this. The Youth of the Year is only handed out to a young person that exemplifies leadership, community service, academic excellence, and dedication to living a healthy lifestyle.

(Photo courtesy @MilfordSuper)

By Mia Cerrato – Editorial Editor

Law’s Culinary students hosted a luncheon on February 5 to faculty and staff. This was the final exam for Mrs. Ryan’s Food Service students. Mrs. Ferron’s Culinary students contributed by setting up the tables and guided students in waiting or bussing the tables. Advocate Editorial Editor Mia Cerrato interviewed Ryan about the event. 

Mia Cerrato: What was the purpose of the event?

Mrs. Ryan: The purpose was to teach my students to practice a sit down service. It will give them experience for the future. 

MC: What were the meals served? 

MR: We made potstickers, sesame noodles with beef, along with peanut sauce, chocolate parfait, Asian broccoli slaw, green tea, and iced hibiscus tea. 

MC: How did it go? 

MR: It went very well. My students impressed me and executed it nicely. 

MC: Who attended the luncheon? 

MR: Superintendent Dr. Cutaia and her Assistant Superintendent Mrs. Fedigan attended the luncheon. Teachers came to enjoy the food as well. 

MC: Which dish seemed to be more popular? 

MR: The sesame noodles with peanut sauce seemed to be the most popular in the beginning. But towards the end, as the faculty and staff saw the chocolate parfait they began to change their mind. Everyone thought it looked very appetizing.

(Photo courtesy youtube.com)

By Michael Loschiavo – Sports Editor

Junior Johnny Vaccino has hit the airwaves with his new podcast, “The Johnny & Fran (But Not Bobo) Podcast.” Sports Editor Michael Loschiavo interviewed Vaccino about his podcast.

Michael Loschiavo: Why did you want to start a podcast?

Johnny Vaccino: The reason I started a podcast is because I wanted to know a little bit more about Mr. Thompson and I knew if I started a podcast with him he would be on board to start one.

ML: What are the podcasts about?

JV: The podcasts are about everything you can hope for and we hope to invite special guests every month to make the show enjoyable.

ML: What makes your podcast different from other podcasts?

JV: What makes our podcast different than the others is we have special guests. We enjoy doing it and everyone smiles.

ML: Your first episode featured interviews with Law media specialist Ms Briggs and Law girls basketball player Katie Konareski. What will your next podcast be about?

JV: We don’t know what our next podcast will be about but we will have a meeting this week to discuss what we will be talking about in our next show.

ML: What are some of the guests you hope to have on the show?

 JV: Eventually, we hope to have the superintendent, Dr. Cutaia, on the show but I will have to do a little work to get her on the show.

(Photo courtesy youtube.com)

By Addison Schwing – Editorial and News Editor

Sophomore Moira Staples is a member of the Jonathan Law Student Congress. The Student Congress was created by history teacher Mr. Zuraw to allow students to pass “legislation” that will impact the student body. Last week, Staples attended the signing of a bill she created to implement recycling bins in the cafeteria. Advocate Editorial and News Editor Addison Schwing interviewed Staples on the success of her recent bill. 

Addison Schwing: Where did you get the idea for the bill from?

Moira Staples: I got the idea for the recycling bin bill from watching a video of Greta Thunberg and I was inspired by the great strides she had been making in the world by addressing the United Nations. By hearing her I began to look for some way that I try and contribute to helping the environment and noticed the lack of recycling bins in our cafeteria.

AS: What was the process like for getting the bill approved and signed?

MS: I emailed Mr. Zuraw with my proposal and he made it into a document which he posted onto our google classroom page for people to make comments to it. 

AS: How do you think this bill will benefit students? 

MS: This bill will benefit students by making them more environmentally conscious.

AS: How successful have the recycling bins been since they were introduced in the school?

MS: The bins will take some time to get used to, but I’m sure they will be very successful soon.

AS: What legislation do you hope to pass in the future?

MS: I am unsure of what legislation I will pass in the future, but I do hope that the Jonathan Law community will be making greater strides towards environmental awareness.

By Morgan Taylor – Editor-In-Chief

Jonathan Law’s Athletic Director Mr. Sarullo recently announced the future construction of new turf fields where the previous grass softball and baseball fields are placed now. The Advocate’s Editor-In-Chief, Morgan Taylor, sat down with Mr. Sarullo to talk about the new addition to the sports facilities.

Morgan Taylor: Why did you decide to get new fields?

Mr. Sarullo: The city, the mayor, and the school administration worked together to provide funding for Jonathan Law, Foran, and city fields.

MT: How much will all the renovations cost and what exactly is being done to the fields?

MS: We think the fields here will be about $2.5 million and the plan is to completely turf the baseball and softball fields. Sports such as soccer, lacrosse, or football could all practice and play on it.

MT: How will this affect the different sports teams?

MS: All our baseball and softball teams will have the best facility in the state to practice and play on. This will also allow us the opportunity to have all of our teams practice out there. As an example right now football cannot practice out there because they would do too much damage to the grass field but now they’ll be able to go out there. The JV soccer team will also be able to play on turf.

MT: When will the renovations be taking place?

MS: We’re not sure exactly when but our goal is to get it started as soon as possible. I think in an ideal world it would begin this summer. There are still a lot of steps in the process before we actually start construction.

MT: What are you most excited about for the upcoming spring sports teams?

MS: “I think all of our teams return a lot of excellent players. We’re excited about our new boys lacrosse coach that has come on board and we think that all of our teams have a very good chance to be successful and make their state tournament.

By Alexis Broderick – News Editor

Senior Rayshon Jacobs committed to to play football at Central Connecticut State University on February 5. Central was Jacobs’ top school and he received a full athletic scholarship. Advocate News Editor Alexis Broderick interviewed Jacobs on his commitment to Central. 

Alexis Broderick: What made you commit to Central? 

Rayshon Jacobs : Central had a great athletic and academic program, and they have a lot of opportunities for Connecticut students such as myself. 

AB: What are you looking forward to at Central? 

RJ: I look forward to the change from high school to college and meeting new people and meeting all of my new football teammates. 

AB: How did Law prepare you for college?

RJ: Law prepared me for college mentally and my coaches suggested that I work harder and be the best version of myself. This got me to where I am today and I couldn’t be anymore grateful. 

AB: Do you personally feel like you’re ready for college? 

RJ:  I personally feel like I’m ready for college, but I do know that struggle is going to occur. I will have to apply time management skills and prioritize things better to be the successful student I want to be. 

AB: Why did you choose football over track? 

RJ: I chose football over track because I’ve played football since I was seven years old. I started track my junior year of high school, but football has a bigger place in my heart. Although I had an amazing track season this year, Central and football is where I know I would be the happiest. 

AB: Is there anyone you would like to thank for helping you over the years? 

RJ: I would want to thank my mom for being so supportive and always pushing me to strive. I would also like to thank my Uncle David for being a great support system as well and always staying on top of me academically and making sure I stay for my athletic career as well. Lastly, I would like to thank Mr. Beler for advice and doing so many amazing things for me. I really don’t know where I would be today without him.

(Photo courtesy Meghana Cheela)

By Mia Cerrato – Editorial Editor

Junior Meghana Cheela is a member of the Jonathan Law orchestra. Cheela has participated in the music program at Law for three years and is currently preparing with the orchestra for the Winter Concert on January 9. Advocate Editorial Editor Mia Cerrato interviewed Cheela about the upcoming concert.

Mia Cerrato: How will the orchestra prepare for the concert?

Meghana Cheela: We prepared by constantly practicing in class, meeting in groups for sections, and practicing at home. 

Mia Cerrato: What songs will you be performing? 

Meghana Cheela: We will be performing “Christmas Finale,” “Fiddle Like the Dickens,” “Moon of Winter,” and “Holiday Hanukkah.”

Mia Cerrato:  What is your favorite part about orchestra? 

Meghan Cheela: My favorite part of orchestra is coming together with other students to perform pieces.

Mia Cerrato: How do you think the concert will go?

Meghana Cheela: I think we will do well at the concert because we have practiced a lot and put a lot of effort in. 

Mia Cerrato: What are you most excited for?

Meghana Cheela: I am most excited for the Christmas finale because it is the first time that the choir, band, and orchestra have come together to perform a song. It will be a very cool experience and memorable for us and hopefully our audience.

(Photo by Sadie Willett)

By Sadie Willett – Staff Reporter

The Danni Kemp fundraiser is an event organized by the Jonathan Law Softball Team and head coach Mrs. Blude. Blude arranged the fundraiser in hopes of raising money for the Danni Kemp Memorial Fund. Danni Kemp was an All-state softball player at Foran High School who passed away in 2017 of a brain tumor. Kemp went All-State her junior and senior year of high school and event spent a small amount of time playing for the Stratford Brakettes. The term “Danni Strong” has been printed onto many shirts, bracelets, stickers, and are even worn on the helmets of hundreds of softball players throughout Milford.

The softball team has already raised over $1,000 towards the fund and is looking forward to raising more. The fundraiser consists of Pura Vida bracelets specially made for Kemp with blue and white string, which depict the “Danni Strong” symbol. Bracelets can be worn in any way and are being sold for $5 to support this amazing cause. Advocate Staff Reporter Sadie Willett interviewed Blude about the fundraiser.

Sadie Willett: What is the Danni Kemp fundraiser about?

Mrs. Bludé: The Danni Kemp fundraiser was done by people involved with the softball team at Law aiming to raise money to donate to the Danni Kemp Memorial Scholarship this coming softball season.

SW: What is the purpose of this fundraiser?

MB: Foran has a new turf field that will be named after Danni and the dedication will be held the day Law travels to Foran. We wanted to help out the Kemp family in any way possible and this seemed like the perfect time to do so. 

SW: What prompted the softball team into organizing this fundraiser?

MB: Danni was an incredible student-athlete at Foran, one all young athletes should strive to emulate. Those of us that coached and played against her will never forget what she brought to the field and I believe her legacy will live on forever, especially with this field dedication. 

SW: What is the main goal for the outcome of this fundraiser?

MB: The girls here were hoping to raise a few hundred dollars to bring to the dedication, but it turns out we have raised way above and beyond that please attend the game to see what the final numbers are!

SW: How will the softball team accomplish this goal?

MB: The softball team will accomplish this goal by selling Pura Vida bracelets made for the Danni Memorial Scholarship that are $5 each.

(Photo courtesy Stephanie Ferrara)

By Taylor Firla – Staff Reporter 

Stephanie Ferrara is a junior at Jonathan Law who is currently starting her second year on the gymnastics team. Advocate Staff Reporter Taylor Firla interviewed Ferrara about her preseason thoughts. 

Taylor Firla: What made you decide to try out for the gymnastics team? 

Stephanie Ferrara: I joined the gymnastics team because I wanted to try something new. 

TF: What do you enjoy most about participating on the team?

SF: I enjoy bonding with my teammates and doing floor and beam, which is two out of the four events that you can do on the team. 

TF: What’s your favorite event and why do you like it? 

SF: My favorite event is floor because I like to tumble a lot and I’ve had the skills from cheerleading so I thought it would be the best for me. 

TF: How do you guys work on improving your bond as a group? 

SF: Our team is close and during practice we’ll talk to each other, help each other out and that just automatically brings us together. 

TF: Jonathan Law recently suffered the loss of alum Melanie Coleman, who was an All-State member of the gymnastics team. What is the team doing throughout the season to honor her?

SF: We all love Melanie a lot, and this year our meets are going to be for her. We made bows to wear every meet to honor her.

(Photo courtesy @chisinaucamecdotes)

By Mayur Somalinga – Staff Reporter

Cameron Neely, a student at Jonathan Law for the past three years is now studying abroad in Moldova for a year, learning Russian in collaboration with the National Security Language Initiative for Youth (NSLI-Y). Cameron has been documenting his experiences during the past four months and will continue to do so, on his Instagram blog (@chisinaucamecdotes). Although Cameron posts daily on his blog, it only provides so much information about his time overseas, so Advocate Staff Reporter, Mayur Somalinga, decided to reach out to Cameron Neely to learn more about how studying Russian in Moldova has been so far.

Mayur Somalinga: Could you please briefly describe what NSLI-Y (National Security Language Initiative for Youth) is about?

Cameron Neely: NSLI-Y (National Security Language Initiative for Youth) is a U.S. Department of State program that provides full merit-based scholarships for high school students and recent high school graduates to learn less commonly taught languages in summer and academic-year overseas immersion programs. The NSLI-Y program aims to provide opportunities to American youth that will spark a lifetime interest in foreign languages and cultures. NSLI-Y programs offer intensive language immersion in a variety of locations around the world. Beginners are welcome to apply for any of the target languages; previous language experience is not required.

MS: What inspired you to join NSLI-Y and beyond that, why did you choose to study Russian?

CN: I am an alumni of the 2018 NSLI-Y Russian summer program (my program was also located in Chisinau, Moldova), so I applied again knowing how great of an impact full immersion has on your language level! I went from beginner in Russian to intermediate in just one summer, so I am so excited and grateful to be spending an entire year here! As far as Russian: Russian has been something that I have been interested in for about three years now. It started out of general interest in languages and linguistics – Spanish was my favorite class, and I became very invested in Finnish language and culture too. When I stumbled across Russian, I immediately fell in love with it – I started small with learning the alphabet just for fun, which turned into some new words and greetings, to numbers, and then before I knew it, I found myself at Yale University’s language program for high school students, “World CLASS,” in a Russian class. I learned a lot in the class, especially as my teacher was a native speaker from Azerbaijan and the class was very small (five students.) After studying Russian in Moldova with NSLI-Y in the summer of 2018, I participated in the World CLASS program again, but there was originally a problem since I was intermediate and they only offered a beginner and advanced class. They were kind enough to offer me a one on one class with a native Russian speaker studying at Yale on a Fulbright scholarship, and I could not be more grateful! Finally, I am here in Moldova, studying Russian for my third year.

MS: What has been your favorite thing about being in Moldova so far?

CN: This is the hardest question you have given me! If I only had to pick one, I would say that Moldova has given me more opportunities to pursue my interests than I could have even imagined! I go to school here for four hours a day, and all of my lessons are related to Russian language – I have two Russian grammar classes a day, and then two phonetics/speech classes. We also have specialized classes weekly to learn more about Russian culture. To give you an idea, the names of some of the classes are “The Russian Mentality,” “Russian Songs,” “Russian Geography,” etc. We also have constant excursions within the city, and there are also out of city day trips that we go on in the spring and fall! We also have language partners, which are Moldovan volunteers that spend time with us to further our Russian skills. We all live with our own Russian speaking host families too, so we are definitely in an immersive environment! Russian is not 100 percent of my time here though – I often volunteer at International Language cafes to help Moldovan students practice their English. I host tables where we talk about a certain subject (for example, topics in the past have been Halloween, Outer Space, Thanksgiving, and Christmas is coming up!) and then play interactive games (charades is a favorite!). I also sometimes volunteer by cleaning up trash in parks, and I will definitely be volunteering more in the future. I do a lot more here (they keep us busy!) but that is a start… 

MS: What advice do you have for those who want to join NSLI-Y or just learn Russian in general?

CN: I think my answer could apply to any language. There are so many resources out there, no matter how old you are! NSLI-Y is not the only program that is completely paid for – there is also YES Abroad, CLS, and tons of other programs that have scholarships available, and that is only for high school.

MS: What plans do you have after your year abroad in Moldova?

CN: I am not sure yet – I have a few ideas, but it is all going to depend on many things. I am looking into other programs similar to the one I am on now where I would be able to study Russian and graduate high school / apply to colleges at the same time, but if that doesn’t end up happening, I can of course simply go back to Jonathan Law. There is also the program at Law connected with Housatonic where I could get some college classes out of the way, so I would definitely do that if I end up in Milford next year.

(Photo courtesy kiwanis.com)

By Nora Sotomonte – Staff Reporter

The Jonathan Law Key Club is currently holding its annual holiday food drive. This food drive has been going on for 25 years at Jonathan Law and the Key Club members are happy to help and keep it running. Advocate Staff Reporter Nora Sotomonte interviewed Key Club advisor Mr. Boynton about the food drive.

Nora Sotomonte: Where do you donate the food to?

Mr. Boynton: We donate food baskets to needy Law families. Last year, we made up 13 baskets. What’s left over we donate to the Law food pantry.

NS: When did this start?

MB: The Key Club has been running holiday food drives for as long as I could remember – at least
25 years.

NS: How does giving back to the community make you feel?

MB: I have always loved the holidays and knowing I could help make others a little happier. With a holiday meal, it makes it that much better.

NS: How do you think they feel receiving these items?

MB: I would hope they would feel thankful and I hope it would make the families a lot less
stressed knowing they are guaranteed a nice meal during the holiday season.

NS: How many cans do you expect to give this year?

MB: I am hoping enough to fill all the baskets requested, plus some more.

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By Amelia Mower- Staff Reporter

Jonathan Law hosted an Instant Decision Day for seniors on Friday, December 6. The day consisted of several colleges in which students could receive admittance to through an on-the-spot interview with their admissions counselor. Advocate staff reporter Amelia Mower sat down with College & Career Aide Ms. Sylvia to learn more about Instant Decision Day. 

Amelia Mower: What schools participated in Instant Decision Day? 

Ms. Sylvia: For the college admissions Instant Decision Day we had Southern CT State University, Central CT State University, Quinnipiac University, University of New Haven, University of Bridgeport, and Albertus Magnus College

AM: How many students took part in it and how many got into each school? 

MS: We had 15 fabulous student candidates participate, many that met with more than one college representative on that day. Every student received at least one acceptance!

AM: What did the students need to do to participate? 

MS: Students were required to have their application process completed, specifically the Common Application online. They also need to provide the admissions representatives with their transcript, and some schools needed to review SAT or ACT scores.

AM: Why is this opportunity good for students? 

MS: The Instant Decision Day, also known as On-Site Admissions Day, allows students to connect face-to-face with an admissions representative about their application, ask any final questions about the campus or program they are interested in, and then receive an admission decision on-the-spot! It’s a chance to have a personal interview and make an impression on the admissions department. If for some reason the admissions person can not offer you an acceptance on that day, the rep can go back to their department and speak to their colleagues about what would make you a good fit for their school based on the conversation they had with you. It’s an exciting opportunity! Side note: Some students that heard about the program this year were a bit confused by the name “Instant Decision”; this does not mean that the student must make a decision immediately, instead the admissions person is making the decision to admit the student or not.

AM: What advice do you have for seniors over the next few months as they prepare for college? 

MS: As you receive notifications of acceptance please let me and your school counselor know! Also, update your Naviance account to reflect your acceptances, denials, or if you have officially committed to a college. In addition, this is the time to research and begin applying to scholarship opportunities if you haven’t already started. You can start by using Naviance to see a list of scholarships, and you should check out each college’s financial aid webpage. Fastweb.com is another site where you can research and apply to scholarships, and it’s free to create an account. Lastly, don’t forget to continue working hard in your classes. Colleges will receive a final transcript at the end of your high school career and you want to finish strong here at Law!

(Photo courtesy Joey Soto)

By Alexis Rios – Staff Reporter

The Jonathan Law Drama Club performs plays every year and continues to look for new students. Junior Joey Soto has been starring in plays since his freshman year. Staff Reporter Alexis Rios interviewed Soto about his experiences in the club.

Alexis Rios:  What’s your favorite part about Drama Club?

Joey Soto: My favorite part about drama club is that I get to be a part of the amazing productions we put on. I love to preform and I enjoy seeing the reaction from the audience.

AR: What have you learned from Drama?

JS: I’ve learned to express myself more and how to spread kindness and include everyone because you never know what others are going through.

AR: What are you looking forward to this year?

JS: I’m looking forward to our spring musical “Footloose.” (Be there!) It’s going to be an amazing production and everyone is encouraged to join. Our sign up sheet is near the office.

AR: Any exciting upcoming events?

JS: Not until after break – we have the auditions for “Footloose” on January 6. Everyone’s welcome to audition.

AR: What are some issues or obstacles you have had to overcome?

JS: Some obstacles I’ve had are the rehearsals. We have them almost everyday in the week from 4-7 p.m. which can be tiring but at the same time it’s not a problem because we have so much fun that you don’t even realize rehearsal is over.

(Photo courtesy Bruno Sequera)

By Adarsh Senthilnathan – Staff Reporter

Bruno Sequera is a senior boys swim captain who is very excited to accomplish his personal and team goals this year. Sequera has been on the team for three years at Law and has been swimming since 3rd grade privately outside of school. Sequera is a part of the 400 relay team that holds the record at Law. Advocate Staff Reporter Adarsh Senthilnathan interviewed Sequera about the upcoming swim season.

Adarsh Senthilnathan: What events do you swim?

Bruno Sequera: I swim the 100 free, 200 free, and the 400 relay.

AS: What was your reaction like when you were announced to be this year’s boys swim captain?

BS: When I was made captain I was very excited. I felt like I earned the spot and I felt honored to lead the record breaking team (debatably the best team thus far).

AS: How are you preparing for your first meet on December 19th?

BS: For the first meet, we are practicing for longer, and doing dry land running and ab exercises.

AS: What are your personal and team goals for this season?

BS: Personally, I’d like to make the state finals individually in the 100 free event. And go to the state finals as a relay team.

AS: How do you balance academics and swim?

BS: I don’t use senior priv. I prefer to stay in school and get my work done. Also, I don’t put off work, I’ll get it done as soon as possible.

(Photo by Briana Hernandez)

By Briana Hernandez – Staff Reporter

Jonathan Law culinary teacher Mrs. Ryan does many things other than just teaching culinary and food service at Jonathan Law. Advocate Staff Reporter Briana Hernandez interviewed Ryan to see what makes her unique.

Briana Hernandez: What inspired you to cook?

Mrs. Ryan: In my previous career, I traveled to developing countries where the food awoke my taste buds.  In these countries, people could not afford expensive foods, so they doted on flavor and technique. When I returned home from trips, I wanted to replicate the foods I tried overseas.

BH: When did you start to make your own recipes? Why did you start to make them?

MR: When you first learn to cook, typically you follow a recipe.  Like anything in life, the more you practice, the easier an activity will become.  Cooking is no exception. There were many times when I liked the “bones” or the structure of the recipe but wanted to try substituting a flavor, a starch or protein.  This experimentation can lead you to create new dishes, and thus, new recipes. After a while it becomes second nature. I collected these recipes and offered them to my clients when I was a personal chef and cooking instructor for adults.  Later I was hired to write recipes for food retail outlets.

BH: Who do you look up to in regards to cooking?

MR: I like the writing style of Ina Garten and the bold flavors of Bobby Flay.

BH: What did you want to be before you wanted to be a chief?

MR: I did enjoy my career in international economic development.  In that capacity, I was able to work with small and medium sized business owners in countries like Egypt, Sri Lanka, and Peru.  The organization I worked for had employees like myself, as well as over 40,000 American retirees, who volunteered their time on projects in 125 countries around the world.  It was a wonderful experience, and I learned that something we all have in common is food and eating.

BH: What are your hobbies other than cooking?

MR: I do like to ski, I use to play the clarinet and saxophone, and I enjoy speaking Spanish.

(Photo courtesy youtube.com)

By Eva Carroll – Staff Reporter

Jonathan Law is broadcasting its annual Lawmas videos on Eagle News next week. Every year, the Broadcast Journalism class makes a series of entertaining, Lawmas-related segments to air during the days leading up to Christmas break. Mr. Kulenych is the Broadcast Journalism teacher at Law. Staff Reporter Eva Carroll sat down with Kulenych to learn more about the upcoming special. 

Eva Carroll: What are the Lawmas Specials you have planned for this Christmas season?

Mr. K.: Each year, we produce three videos to celebrate the Lawmas season and this year will be no different. We are excited to debut this year’s rendition of “Twas The Night Before Lawmas,” a lip dub video, and a video that asks the Law community what they want for Lawmas this year.

EC: What is your favorite segment out of those planned for this year’s Lawmas special? Why?

MK: “Twas The Night Before Lawmas” is so much fun to write and produce each year. It’s a whole-class effort and we try to make it as funny and heart-warming as possible. This year’s “Santa” is a fun one, so people will have to tune in and see how that person saves Lawmas.

EC: Why do you do annual Lawmas Specials on Eagle Eye News?

MK: Law is a special place every day, but especially around the holidays. The Law family is there for one another and Lawmas is just another way to celebrate that togetherness and to have some fun at the same time.

EC: How are these segments going to be different than last year’s segments?

MK: Each year we pick a different faculty member to be the “Santa” in our “Twas The Night Before Lawmas” video. Last year, Mr. Sarullo was “Santa” and we’ve also done editions with Mr. Thompson and Mr. Ragaini. This year’s “Santa” means a lot to our school – and they don’t mind laughing at themselves a little bit which helped. The kids who produced the lip dub video did an amazing job as well – there are some pretty hilarious scenes and cameos in there.

EC: How do students in Broadcast Journalism film/prepare for the Lawmas Specials?

MK: As a class, the Broadcast students write the script for the video and then they go out and film and edit it. It usually takes about a week to produce each video and this year’s process went pretty smoothly. Be sure to tune in to Eagle Eye News and YouTube every day next week and check them out.

(Photo by Hanna Broderick)

By Hanna Broderick – Staff Reporter

The Jonathan Law boys swim and dive team is preparing for the new season with their first meet on Thursday, December 19. Junior Justin Goglia swims both for the school and for an outside club team. He has been swimming for seven years and is excited for another successful season. Staff reporter Hanna Broderick sat down with Goglia to talk about the season. 

Hanna Broderick: What are you most excited for this season?

Justin Goglia: I’m most excited to improve my times and to grow as a team. I want to improve my swimming overall along with the rest of the swim team.

HB: What are the main events that you swim?

JG: I mostly swim the 500 freestyle and the 100 backstroke. I like the 500 free better because it’s an easier stroke than the back, and I mostly like distance events better. My 500 PR is a 4:47.95 which I’m really proud of because I worked really hard to get to that point. My 100 Back PR is a 56.43 and I’m really happy with this time because my main goal in Freshmen year was to get the record and this time reminds me of it.

HB: How have you improved from freshman and sophomore year individually and as a team?

JG: Personally, I have brought my times down, especially in the 500 Freestyle and the 100 Backstroke. In Freshman year my 500 time was 5:22.44 and my 100 Back time was a 1:01.86. Now my times are a lot faster than they were in Freshman year. As a team we have improved all together with getting closer and bringing all of our times down. We all helped each other to achieve our goals.

HB: What helps you stay motivated and stick with a sport for so long?

JG: To me swimming is just fun, me wanting to bring my times down is my motivation to keep swimming. Also I’ve made some of my closest friends through the sport.

HB: What has been your favorite part of swimming for Law?

JG: My favorite part about swimming at Law would be having a fun team that makes your time entertaining and how we all help each other beat our goals.

(Photo courtesy Olivia Kowalski)

By Madison Lusignan – Staff Reporter

Jonathan Law girls basketball captain Olivia Kowalski is excited to play in the upcoming season and is prepared to encourage the rest of the team along with her co-captains Jillian Hall and Madilyn Lula. Kowalski has been playing the sport for all four years of her high school career and she is thrilled to finish it with the rest of the senior girls. Advocate Staff Reporter Madison Lusignan interviewed Kowalski about the upcoming season.

Madison Lusignan: How did you initially feel when you were announced captain of the girls basketball team? 

Olivia Kowalski: When I was first announced, I’m not going to lie, I felt proud of myself. The captains I’ve played under the last few years were amazing players and people and it gave me a certain sense of confidence and leadership I did not have before. 

ML: Do you think you have a certain role you have to fulfill? If so what role and how do you feel you will fill that roll?

OK: There is no dictionary definition of what a basketball captain must be like. Each one of us has a leadership position that could be interpreted as whatever we choose. For me personally, I want to inspire confidence.

ML: Do you have any goals to accomplish this season? As a team and personally

OK: As a team, my goals for us is to make at as far as we have been. The last two years we were able to go to the state quarterfinals and I believe we can this year too. We have a different team after losing five seniors, but I do not think we are unable to succeed. Personally, I want to step up and fill the shoes we have lost. 

ML: As  captain, how do you feel like you are a role model to others?

OK: As a basketball captain, I feel like my team looks up to me both when I am playing and when I am not. If they see I start to lose energy, then so do they. And therefore, they match the effort I put in, which encourages me to put in 120% of my effort in both games and practice. 

ML: What are you expectations for this season?

OK: My expectations for this season are not lower than it has been in the past. Although we have a brand new team, I believe we are able to succeed in a different, new way than we have been. I expect nothing less and I trust my team does as well. 

(Photo courtesy Emma Nelly)

By Sydney Simpson – Staff Reporter

Emma Nelly is a sophomore gymnast on the Law Gymnastics team who went All-SCC Second Team her freshman year. Out of the four events in gymnastics, Nelly competes in all of them, specializing in floor and vault. She also spends a considerable amount of time at her outside club practicing her skills and putting in work to stay in shape during the off season. Advocate Staff Reporter Sydney Simpson interviewed Nelly about the 2019-2020 gymnastics season. 

Sydney Simpson: How did you prepare for the season?

Emma Nelly: I made sure that I worked extra hard at my outside club so that I was fully prepared for the season and I had all the skills necessary to get my best scores.

SS: What are your goals for this season? What were they last season? Did you meet them?

EN: My goal for the season is definitely to get first team all state, because last season, I got second team, and I was very very close and I hope I can make first team this year. I didn’t really have a goal last year, I didn’t really know what to expect, I just kind of, like, did the sport.

SS: What are some skills that you have gained since last season that you think will help you this season?

EN: Well, I have gotten some more consistent tumbling. My full was not very consistent last year but it is more this year, and I am working on different combinations of tricks and different connections to get bonus tenths, which can hopefully boost my score and help me get into opens at the end of the season.

SS: What are the team goals for the season?

EN: The team goals are to become closer as a team and to have more team bonding, such as pasta parties, and hopefully to win the majority of our meets.

SS: What is your favorite part of being on the Law gymnastics team?

EN: Well, I would say my favorite part of being on the Law gymnastics team is the love and support that comes from each and every team member, and the energy that the team gives off. Especially during meets, it’s really fantastic. If you did a vibe check, we would pass.

(Photo courtesy yearbookavenue.com)

By Jane Iwanicki – Staff Reporter

Diontae Eady is a senior on the Law Basketball team, and went All-State last year. The winter sports’ seasons are just beginning, including the basketball team. Their first game is on Thursday, December 19, against Brookfield, so they have been practicing hard so that they are all prepared. Advocate Staff Reporter Jane Iwanicki sat down with Eady, to see what’s to come for the 19-20 season.

Jane Iwanicki: How is the basketball team looking so far?

Diontae Eady: The basketball team has improved early on into the season. We didn’t lose much from last year, so we’re ready to go.

JI: What’s your biggest personal goal for the season?

DE: My biggest personal goal is to bring back a state title back to Law.

JI: What are the team’s expectations for the season?

DE: The team’s expectations for this year are to make the playoffs and plate for the title in late March.

JI: What team are going to be the most challenging for the team this year?

DE: The most challenging teams we’re expected to play will be Hillhouse out of New Haven, and Notre Dame of West Haven.

JI: Since you started playing basketball for Law, has the program changed at all? If so, how has it changed?

DE: When I first came to Law, their previous season was 0-20. For my junior year we were 16-4. The team came really close together and we’ve become a family since then.

(Photo courtesy yearbookavenue.com)

By Tyanna Xavier – Staff Reporter

Jonathan Law’s indoor track season is up and running. The track team is putting its sweat and tears into this season and will be ready to take down the competition. Using more strategies to stay fit and increase their speed the track team will be bolting to the finish lines. Advocate Staff Reporter Tyanna interviewed junior Alexis Agyemang about the upcoming season.

Tyanna Xavier: What events do you participate in?

Alexis Agyemang: I participate in the 55 and 300. I love doing it because running gives me a way to clear my head and fills me with so much adrenaline. 

TX: How does the track team stay in shape for their meets?

AA: In practice we do two laps around the track, then we go and huddle up and get into a big circle where we do a variety of helpful exercises. Some of them are push ups, jumping jacks, squats, butt kicks, sit ups, etc. Next we go off on our own to practice in ways we feel will help us be faster in division for the meets. 

TX:Where are most of your meets going to be held?

AA: The Floyd Little Center which is the athletic center in New Haven. I have only been in one part, but from what I have seen it is very big and has a 200 meter track which is great for all track meets. 

TX: Who are your biggest rivals? What schools are you most worried about? 

AA: Some of our rivalry teams would have to be Fairfield Prep, Bunnell, Hillhouse, and Platt Tech. The team I am most worried about this year is Hillhouse because they have some of the fastest athletes and we have been beaten by them before. However, I believe our team this year has the potential to beat them this year with all of our hard work.

TX: Do you have the opportunity to meet other runners?

AA: Yes, going to track meets I do get a lot of opportunities to meet people from different schools. I have met runners from different schools, people who run the same division as me and sometimes just friends coming to support their school. It’s nice to see other teams doing track and the way they prepare for the meet because it really shows how determined your competition is and how much love they have for the sport as well. 

(Photo courtesy yearbookavenue.com)

By Gillian Rees – Staff Reporter

Andriana Bruno is a junior indoor track captain and her events are the 55 hurdles and long jump. Bruno has qualified for SCCs each season since freshman year and qualified for states last year. By the end of her sophomore year, has the 4th best 55 hurdle time and long jump distance in school history. Advocate staff reporter Gillian Rees interviewed Bruno about the upcoming season. 

Gillian Rees: What was your initial thought about being selected as captain for your junior year?

Andriana Bruno: When Mr. Beler announced the captains at the indoor track banquet last season, I was so surprised and excited. Indoor track is one of my favorite seasons so getting the chance to step up and be a leader of something I care about is great.

GR: For track do the captains work together well or do you all kind of take charge of your own events and areas?

AB: This year since we have a mix of senior and juniors captains so we are working hard to come together and always be on the same page. We all lead warm-ups together and then separate based on our events. It’s a good system that allows practice to run smoothly.

GR: What do you think makes the indoor track team so successful?

AB: A combination of flexibility and a desire for success is what I think makes our team so successful. Since during the indoor season it can be hard to find practice space, we all need to be driven and hardworking to get the results we want. Beler also is a great coach who always spends time working with kids individually.

GR: What is your favorite part about being on this team? What do you enjoy the most?

AB: My favorite part about being on this team is the sense of family that we all have. Running down the halls together and squeezing into the gym brings everyone so close together and has let me make friendships I never would have expected.

GR: What are your individual goals and team goals for this season? 

AB: This season, I’m striving to make states again for both hurdles and long jump. In both events, I’m looking forward to getting new personal records. For the girls team, we are hoping to place somewhere in the Top 5 at states this year. As always, we want everyone to get new personal records and have a great time during this short season.