The 2021-2022 school year has passed halfway through. Time flies! Little Flower welcomes a fresh start in the second semester with different fun activities: various events during the Catholic Schools Week, diverse T-1 and T-2 Clubs, International Cafe, upcoming dances, postponed Christmas and spring concerts produced by the LF Fine Arts Department, and the Spring Open House at the end of February.

Little Flower started this February with Catholic Schools Week 2022! To kick off the week, two students, Nicole Orbe-Munoz ’22 and Ahmya Begley ’24, represented Little Flower at Father Judge’s Catholic Schools Week liturgy and a “town-hall discussion” with Archbishop Perez. After the last day of midterm exams and the first semester, Catholic Schools Week opened with the first school-wide auditorium liturgy of 2022. This was also a day designated to celebrate Little Flower’s students. In other words, on Tuesday, teachers did not assign much homework! We started the first day of the second semester and new quarter with First Responders Appreciation Day. Student leaders of Little Flower traveled to express their gratitude for first responders in our city. We were fortunate to be out of school on Thursday for Faculty Appreciation Day! 

Apart from Friday being the best day of every week, this was proved especially true on the last day of this year’s Catholic Schools Week. Student Appreciation Day was on a special bell schedule with 28-minute classes, so that we could gather to watch the classic Disney movie, Starstruck. Little Flower showed all of its core qualities of fortitude, sisterhood, and liveliness when we faced the obstacle of a poor internet connection. As Starstruck continued to buffer, our sisterhood proceeded to showcase its singing and dancing talents as we gathered to enjoy some favorites, such as “We Don’t Talk about Bruno”, “The Cha-Cha Slide”, and last but most certainly not least, “It’s Raining Men” from the Weather Girls. 

With the start of the new semester, Little Flower has introduced T-clubs again! Given, there are so many, choosing a T-club for students this year must have been the challenge of the year so far. From athletics to religion, whatever you are interested in will appear in a club at Little Flower. If nothing has grabbed their attention, many students have enjoyed study periods in the auditorium, or even created their own club. 

If you are interested in all there is to know about college or a courtroom, there is a club for it. Members of the athletic department have introduced the CPR/First Aid Club at Little Flower. Others have created yoga, exercise, and even an environmental health called LF Planteers. The Liturgical Friends Club has continued to help Little Flower celebrate and participate in school mass. There are some gaming clubs, one particularly occurring in T-1 called Strategic Gaming Club. Little Flower is a place where our sisterhood appreciates a wide range of culture and diversity, and so it is pleasing to mention that we have T-1 Asian Culture Club, and T-2 Italian Culture Club. 

We are also a sisterhood that has a deep appreciation for the arts. Several T clubs welcome beginner sewing artists, young women interested in penmanship and calligraphy. There are also clubs that explore interests in classic films, DIY activities, and even the culinary arts. There are so many ways to get involved with music; the school orchestra and choir prove to offer a most delightful experience. 

In addition, the Little Flower sisters are looking forward to the freshman and sophomore dances and the junior and senior proms in the upcoming spring. Little Flower juniors and seniors respectively continue to post their stylish prom dresses onto the Instagram page created for the junior and senior class proms for 2022. With the dances approaching, the sisters also started to discuss their plans for their ideal prom dresses, especially in colors that they will wear for the dances. Their conversation and engagement in the Instagram posts showcase their excitement and anticipation for the event. 

Furthermore, the instrumental and vocal music teachers and students have been diligently preparing for the postponed Christmas concert, which took place on Tuesday, February 15 at 7:00 PM in the school auditorium. The concert’s members did a wonderful job for the concert preview at 2:00 PM on the same day. After all of the hardworking preparation, of course, the final concert in the evening was spectacular! Thank you to everyone who assisted the musical performance for all of their support and dedication in making the evening of February 15 a memorably beautiful one! Stay tuned as we look forward to the Spring concert in a couple of months. 

As this school year goes on, and each class gets older, we begin preparing to welcome the incoming freshmen class of 2026. At the end of this month, ambassadors will host a Spring Open House to welcome the incoming students. The best part of welcoming the new class into the Little Flower sisterhood is that we can share traditions like the International Cafe with them. This year, the International Cafe event will take place on Tuesday, March 1, 2022, in the gym during lunch periods. It is the time of year when Little Flower gathers to celebrate our sisterhood’s diversity by preparing cultural cuisine dishes to share with our other sisters. 

Progressing into a new semester, Little Flower encourages all of you to keep up the hard work, engage in more activities that you are passionate about, and move towards your goals in making the school year even more brilliant!

 

Article by Chunyi Wang ‘23 and Ahmya Begley ‘24

On February 11, 2022, the Athletes Helping Athletes Club (AHA) attended an event at Council Rock South. This event was a Carnival Night theme which included fun activities such as corn hole, arts and crafts, basketball, can toss, hockey, a scooter relay, and a dance floor. Not only did the special needs athletes have a great time, but the LF girls as well.

During the evening, the LF girls were assigned buddies that they spent the entirety of the night beside. The girls led their buddies around to the various activities that Council Rock South High School had and were their guide for the event. Not only were the ladies a guide for these athletes, but a friend as well. These LF girls had a great time playing basketball and dancing the night away alongside their buddies.

Those in attendance from Little Flower’s branch of AHA included Katie Vishio, Gianna Morgan, Brianna Coates, Emma Fox, Casey Roberts, Taylor Gotts, Norah Fletcher, and Megan LoMastro. Megan LoMastro, a junior at LF, says that volunteering at AHA events is “rewarding” because it allows her to help others. Helping others is a priority of Megan’s because she hopes to become a nurse in the future. Norah Fletcher, a senior, described the night as “a great time.” She had a blast spending the night with her buddy as they talked about golf and played the games. Norah says that she is “happy to attend any events for AHA'' because of how wonderful the athletes are at the events. 

These Little Flower girls always have a fantastic time when attending AHA events. The Athletes Helping Athletes Club is eager to see what event is next and cannot wait to volunteer. 

Article by Katharine Vishio ‘23

Valentine’s Day, on February 14 of each year, originated sometime back in the third century in Rome. What had started out as a way to help young Christian couples has now turned into a widely commercialized holiday filled with candy, flowers, and cards. It all started back when St. Valentine, who was thought to be a bishop in the third century in Rome, became the symbol of this modern-day holiday after becoming a martyr for both his faith and for the defense of young couples. 

What is known for sure is that in Rome, during the reign of Claudius II, many couples, specifically Christians, were being persecuted for their faith and for the Sacrament of Marriage. St. Valentine was a priest at that time, and was imprisoned for marrying and aiding young Christian couples who were being persecuted. He was executed at the hands of Claudius II for spreading Christianity which was a serious crime at the time. 

Details of this story on why St. Valentine was arrested and how the phrase “Your Valentine” was coined varies somewhat. Some say that St. Valentine, while imprisoned, preached about Christianity and the jailer overheard. He brought his blind daughter to be healed by St. Valentine, who restored her eyesight. On the day of his execution, St. Valentine supposedly left the girl a note and signed it, “From your Valentine.”

Other variations depict St. Valentine marrying in couples in secret because it had been forbidden. Apparently, during the reign of Claudius II, men were prohibited to marry because they needed to go off to war. St. Valentine stepped in and married these men in secret but, since it was against the law, he was incarcerated for it. 

St. Valentine is the patron saint of engaged couples, happy marriages, love, and young people. In pictures, he can be seen with birds and roses. We celebrate his feast day on February 14 of each year. 

Regardless of the origins of Valentine’s day, it has turned into a traditional day filled with chocolate-covered strawberries, red velvet cakes, and roses. Many couples celebrate by giving small gifts or tokens to each other to show their affection. Valentine’s Day may be a day to focus on physical gifts like those roses or some type of jewelry; however, we should always remember that most importantly, it is a day to show our love and emotion for each and every person around us.

By Ines Monsalve ‘22

Little Flower is home to more leadership and extracurricular activities than one could possibly imagine, one of these fantastic groups being our Black Student Union (BSU). 

Aside from February being the shortest month, with holidays that celebrate love and old presidents, it is also the month to acknowledge and celebrate Black History. February has become a month to be inspired by and celebrate the black leaders who have and continue to rewrite the narrative for what it is that black people can achieve and contribute to society. It has also become a time to celebrate the black identity and continue creating one’s own experience as being black in the world. BSU’s mission to support other young black women and allies in their experiences in being BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, People of color) at Little Flower and beyond. 

The BSU has shown great initiative throughout the year thus far, but given that it is Black History Month, they are expanding to chart new territory and they invite all of Little Flower to partake in this opportunity as well. From February 14 to 18, BSU week at Little Flower will take place. 

A bake sale will be open during lunch periods from Monday through Friday. 

There will be a Cultural Hair Day on Tuesday, where the group encourages young ladies to celebrate this day by wearing their natural hair, braided, afro, dreaded, twisted hairstyles. Wednesday will be a time where the BSU hosts a black history trivia game called, “What Y’all Know?” It will take place during morning announcements. 

They will host a game night on Thursday after school from 3p.m.-5p.m. with a $5 entry fee. They will end the week again with the last bake sale of the week and a $1 dress-down day on Friday. The dress down on Friday will be in support of Black Girls Code, an organization that introduces coding and technology to young black women. 

The Black Student Union encourages you to be creative this week in the ways that you choose to express yourself while we celebrate and appreciate black history. In addition, BSU would like to express their excitement to invite all to participate in BSU week. There will be no progression until there is inclusion without separation, and so all allies are welcome to participate in activities. 

Article by Ahmya Begley ‘24 

The QuestBridge Foundation offers a prestigious program through which students can be matched with a renowned partner school for a full scholarship to attend that institution. These schools include the University of Pennsylvania, Dartmouth College, Princeton University, and The University of Chicago, among many others.  

To apply, students first enter the National College Match.  Next, they rank which partner schools they are interested in.  Finalists are chosen, and those students submit specific materials to the schools they ranked.  A small sum of those students is then “matched” to one of the universities they ranked, and are set to attend that school for free. Finalists who are not “matched” still receive significant aid upon admittance during regular decision. This year 16,500 applicants applied, 6,312 were selected as finalists, and 1,674 students were recognized as Match Scholarship Recipients.  

Here at Little Flower, three exemplary students from the class of 2022 have received aid from the QuestBridge Foundation! Jenny Le and Felicitas Tananibe are finalists, and Kristina Pham has been matched with the University of Pennsylvania. 

While Jenny and Felicitas are waiting to hear back from their schools, we did ask them a few questions about their application process.  

Jenny stated that the application was “daunting, to say the least,” but after filling out the application for the QuestBridge summer program, it was more familiar to her. Felicitas agreed that “the QuestBridge application process was really intense… I spent my entire summer working on my application… It takes patience to fill it out carefully. I had fun writing the essays. I was able to backtrack and reflect on my identity while writing them,” 

With the stress of a hefty application, many students can feel discouraged.  Jenny said, “It was nerve-wracking to apply to the National College Match, not because the application itself was difficult, but because I had met so many talented and intelligent people through Questbridge. I realized that I stood against thousands of College Prep Scholars and even more unknown high school students who had yet to apply,” Similarly, Felicitas reported, “When I found out about the kind of students who were applying, I thought that I might never become a finalist. These students were some of the tops in the country if not the world. Imposter syndrome really made an appearance here,” 

Despite the intimidating competition, both students have successfully been admitted as finalists! As of right now, Jenny awaits to hear from the University of Pennsylvania in April.  She is also a semi-finalist for the Gates scholarship; finalists will be announced in March.

Encouraging juniors to apply to QuestBridge this year, Jenny writes, “Questbridge offers more than scholarships; it fosters a relationship with students who share the same ambition and drive to succeed by furthering their education,”  

Felicitas feels “relaxed yet curious to know where I will be in the fall,” and is both a QuestBridge and Coca-Cola finalist.  She writes, “I would like to thank each one of my parents, teachers, Mrs. Lynch, and Mrs. Sheridan for getting me through this process. I would also like to encourage every student, mainly juniors, to apply to QuestBridge. Yes, the process is stressful and you might get discouraged, but knowing that you will be going into college with full tuition is worth the pain,” 

Kristina Pham has successfully been matched to the University of Pennsylvania, an accomplishment she thought was “too good to be true,” when she first heard of Questbridge.  “I applied anyway and went for this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity…  My friends and teachers always told me to stop doubting myself, but I kept things very realistic and didn’t get my hopes up.  So, come Match day, I was very shocked, to say the least… I was in denial for a couple of days,” 

She will be attending Penn’s College of Arts and Science as a Mathematics major.  She says “Never in a million years did I think I would get into Penn, let alone on a full ride.  So, when I did, it was the biggest dream come true… I knew all of my hard work paid off when I told my support systems.  The wide eyes, screams, jaws dropped, hugs, and smiles said it all: I had done it.  I am now the first person in my family to go to an Ivy-League school and to go on a full scholarship.  I am so grateful for everyone in my life who always supported me from the start of the National College Match experience,” 

Mrs. Boland, Kristina’s junior and senior year math teacher, as well as the moderator of the mathletes team, writes, “Kristina not only excels at academics but was able to launch and sustain a new club, virtually during a pandemic year. Kristina was an all-virtual student for the 2020-2021 school year. Although she was not physically in my class, she was always focused and engaged… While many students take several AP classes senior year, Kristina is one of only three students enrolled in two AP math classes,” 

An excellent student and community member, Kristina Pham serves as the Vice President of Little Flower’s National Honor Society, is the Editor-in-Chief of the Garland, LF’s yearbook, and is co-founder of the LF Planeteers.  Outside of school, she tutors autistic students after school and during summer break, aids parents who are not fluent in English in filling out school forms, and helps her family’s restaurant, Cafe Saigon.  

While she may still be in a state of shock at her achievement, there is no question that Kristina has a bright future ahead!  

Stay tuned for more on these wonderful students as Felicitas and Jenny hear back from their schools!

Article by Grace Krakauskas ‘23

One of the things I love about my generation is our optimism and sort-of ignorant bravery. We see beauty in dusty libraries, trees, and faraway places we will never get to see. However, part of the issue of this aesthetic is when to stop. The clear answer to this question is pirates. Let me explain. 

Remember when we were all six years old going to see Pirates of the Caribbean in theatres: the popcorn with far too much butter, the overpriced sodas, the magical feeling you got leaving the theatre, and of course the magic of Kiera Knightley, Johnny Depp, and Orlando Bloom all on one screen. This brilliant world sucked us in to crave the same life of a pirate, one of adventure, success, and romance… right? The problem is history and reality come around to remind us of things we would tend to rather forget. 

First, to clear up some basic misconceptions about the glamorous (not glamorous) pirate life, just about everything you think you know is false. Pirates were originally Englishmen in the 1700s who emerged during the middle of a war between Spain, England, and just about every other European country in the world at the time. The first idea of “pirates” were known as privateers who were hired to kill and steal from others to be patriotic… more or less. The issue was when the war ended, all of these lovely citizens hired by their countries stayed in their naval jobs rather than heading back to Europe. What was their job again? Oh, that’s right, stealing! Besides this unfortunate background, pirates were ordinary people for their time. 

Brace yourselves for this one. I am afraid it might sting. Pirates did not say “argh!” As I said, they were Englishmen, meaning they spoke like typical people of their time and nation. They did not have treasure maps, and those who did were grossly unsuccessful. No one walked the plank, wore an eyepatch- well, maybe not no one, I sadly can’t speak for every pirate in the 1700s. Every stereotype I have mentioned descends directly from a famous novel titled Treasure Island. This gave pirates frankly every stereotype they currently hold. 

The last thing I want to clear up is the so-called “aesthetic” of the pirate life. While it could be full of some adventure, quite a lot of it was full of poverty, living on the run, and might I add some seriously disturbing hygiene. Don’t worry, I won’t go into detail on that one. 

So, folks, I hate to crush your romantic dreams of living out your Kiera Knightley fantasies, but alas- as everyone who knows me in this school can attest- bitter sarcasm and realism are what I do best. In all seriousness, pirates and their history fascinate me, and I appreciate it if you have taken the time to read my rambling today. I hope I didn’t crush your dreams too much and that you learned something… unlike pirates. 

Sources: 

http://www.famous-pirates.com/pirates-history/history-of-pirates/

Editorial by Honor Crosby '23

Although romance isn’t my favorite book genre, the hopeless romantic in me can never pass up a good romance book. And since Valentine’s Day is here, it’s the perfect time for them! To celebrate the holiday, I have compiled a list of my favorite romantic reads, new releases, and underrated finds that are sure to warm your heart this Valentine’s Day. Happy reading!

If you like contemporary romance… then Tokyo Ever After by Emiko Jean is your jam! Izzy Tanaka has always felt like an outsider in her small Northern California town- especially as the daughter of a single mother. But then, Izzy discovers a clue to the other half of her parentage and finds out that her father is none other than the Crown Prince of Japan, which means Izzy is actually a princess. But Izzy soon finds that royal life is more complicated than it is made out to be. Toss in two scheming cousins, drama-loving paparazzi, and a grumpy yet cute bodyguard, and you have got a charming YA debut with lots of heart. Other contemporary romance picks include To All The Boys I’ve Loved Before by Jenny Han, When Dimple Met Rishi by Sandhya Menon, Letters to the Lost by Brigid Kemmerer, Instructions for Dancing by Nicola Yoon, and Tweet Cute by Emma Lord.

If you like romance and fantasy… then you’ll love Once Upon a Broken Heart by Stephanie Garber. Evangeline Fox has always believed in the power of happy endings, until the day she finds out that the love of her life is going to marry another. Desperately, Evangeline strikes a deal with the mythical and charismatic Prince of Hearts, Jacks: delay the wedding, and in return, Evangeline will give three kisses- each at a time and place of Jacks’ choosing. But this bargain is no ordinary one, and will send Jacks and Evangeline off on a quest that could end in the greatest happily ever after… or in the worst tragedy. Additional fantasy romance recommendations: A Court of Thorns and Roses by Sarah J. Maas, Girls of Paper and Fire by Natasha Ngan, Blood Like Magic by Liselle Sambury, These Hollow Vows by Lexi Ryan, and This Woven Kingdom by Tahereh Mafi.

If you like romance with a historical backdrop… These Violent Delights by Chloe Gong is definitely your cup of tea. It is 1926 in Shanghai, and a feud between the Scarlet Gang and the White Flowers- two opposing crime groups- runs rampant. In the center of it all is Juliette Cai, a former flapper who has returned to the city to assume her position as heir to the Scarlets. Nothing can stop Juliette- except for the White Flowers’ heir, Roma, who was Juliette’s first love… and first betrayal. But as a contagion starts to spread throughout the city, and rumors of a monster lurking in the Huangpu River rise, Juliette and Roma will have to work together to protect the people and the world they love. Other popular historical romances include The Beautiful by Renee Ahdieh, The Gentleman’s Guide to Vice and Virtue by Mackenzi Lee, Anatomy: A Love Story by Dana Schwartz, The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue by V.E. Schwab, and The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo by Taylor Jenkins Reid. 

If you prefer standalones… you should definitely check out Heartless by Marissa Meyer. Catherine loves to bake and dreams of opening up a bakery of her own one day, but her parents disapprove- after all, such a goal is unthinkable for a woman slated to become Wonderland’s next queen. While at one of the King of Hearts’ balls, Cath meets Jest, the new and mysterious court joker. Cath is determined to navigate her and Jest’s new romance and carve out her own path- but in a world thriving with magic, monsters, and madness, fate has other plans. Want more romance standalones? Try The Shadows Between Us by Tricia Levenseller, Red, White & Royal Blue by Casey McQuinston, Confetti Girl by Diana López, Fire by Kristin Cashore, and Cinderella is Dead by Kalynn Bayron.

Editorial by Caitlyn Plover ‘25

To my dear soulmate,

I will never understand

how a word so short

describes how I feel for you.

I have lost you now

due to my lack of courage.

I could never say:

I love you.

I was a coward.

Too weak to say a measly

four letter feeling.

My heart bleeds without you here.

The open wound aches

causing me physical pain.

I wish I could say:

I love you.

Poem by Samantha Weston ‘25

“Love”. A word with significant meaning

“A feeling of affection with no one intervening”

Your presence, one that fills me with comfort

One that I would flee to as my first resort

On this very day, February 14th,

I ask of you to fill me with great strength

Love me with all your heart

And through the grace of God, may we never part

Poem by Anna Miriello ‘23

I enjoy looking into your

happy eyes

as you talk as

sweetly as a

melody softly

playing in my head.

You and I,

appear to have

the same qualities.

Our music tastes,

tend to “clash”

with each other.

We always argue,

back and forth,

“No, you!”

“No, you!”

Then it all ends.

Oh how I wish,

to see you again,

once more.

Oh how I wish,

to be in your

warm embrace,

once again.
 

Poem by Kayla Aponte ‘25

Shoveling the Snow

Building so many Snowmen

Sleeping in all day!

Haiku by Isabella Parrella '23

The abundant love is blinding, Lord, shining its light from everywhere discernable. Tenderness and warmth fill the air, sweeter than the chocolates couples lovingly exchange. With every rose given, card written, and gift presented, I am reminded of your love God; the love that started it all. 

Your love; that brought us life and nourishes us in our darkest times. 

Your love; that, even when we choose to deny it, is still waiting for us to accept. Your love; more powerful and genuine than anything else in this world. 

This Valentines Day season, help me to be more gentle and loving to those around me and to follow in your own perfect example of love. 

Amen

Love is something

that you can’t comprehend.

Who knows?

Maybe it could be with your best friend.

It’s hard for her to say I love you.

When you say it to her, it gives her butterflies.

But she assumes it’s strictly platonic.

You’d never see her that way.

But why is she still hung over?

Head over heels for you?

But you’d never see her that way.

But you’d never see me that way.

Poem by Kayla Aponte ‘25

When you don’t have somebody on Valentine’s Day, it can sometimes be disheartening. Though, you need not to be sad anymore! For I have found some of the corniest, yet funny, Valentine’s Day jokes. So get ready to roll your eyes and cackle till your abs hurt!

Let’s start this off right! I would like to introduce to you the first category of jokes. I call it: “The Taste of Love”.

What did the cucumber say to the pickle?

You mean a great dill to me.

What kind of flowers should you not give on Valentine’s Day?

Cauliflower!

What did the chief give to his wife on Valentine’s Day?

A hug and a quiche!

This next category I have for you is all about the crowd favorite knock-knock jokes! You can’t talk about jokes without them!

Knock, knock.

Who’s there?

Howard.

Howard who?

Howard you like to be my Valentine?

Knock, Knock.

Who’s there?

Luke.

Luke who?

Luke who got a Valentine!

Knock, Knock.

Who’s there?

Arthur.

Arthur who?

Arthur any chocolates left for me?

My final category, before you have a dad joke overload, is full of animal puns! I definitely found the purrfect quips to get you laughing.

How did the orca ask the other to be their Valentine?

“Whale you be mine?”

What are insects called when they’re dating?

Lovebugs!

What did the rabbit say on Valentine’s Day?

“Somebunny loves you!”

Thank you so much for reading my article and dealing with these cliche Valentine’s Day jokes! Definitely tell a friend, and you will surely get a reaction out of them! More than likely it will be a light-hearted sigh. Wait, I have a bonus joke for you! What did the paper clip say to the magnet? I find you very attractive! Alright, I’ll stop.

Editorial By Samantha Weston ‘25

Books are an important part of how we function in our world today. It is a hobby that engages many people across the world. Without books, we would not have half the knowledge that occupies our minds. Many people find reading boring or not enjoyable, but it helps expand the mind and gives us new ideas to inspire others. A world without reading would be significantly different than what we currently know. 

For many, reading has always seemed more boring than exciting and not as valid as other hobbies. However, reading is one of the main reasons our society thrives. Reading is linked to better concentration and helps train our minds to focus more intently. Having a stronger sense of focus can help improve our daily lives in areas of work, studying, and personal relationships. This can make people more sufficient in day-to-day life. 

It is a known fact that reading helps to expand the mind and boosts creativity. Reading can give people new perspectives and imaginations. When people read, it helps them see a different world than the one they live in without stepping out of their comfort zone. It brings people’s creativity to life and helps them to imagine something other than that to which they are accustomed. It can even help to make friends and connect people when reading the same kinds of books. 

Have you ever heard the phrase “reading makes you smarter”? Reading is a hobby that trains your mind. It has been proven that books help you boost your vocabulary and lead to higher scores on intelligence tests. Even reading just a few minutes every day can help improve memory. The process stimulates the parts of the brain that are in control of attention and memory. This leads to exercising and stretching the brain which makes it easier to remember crucial things. 

There are many reasons to start reading, such as improving one’s writing skills, stress reduction, and increasing one’s basis of knowledge. Although many people do not like reading, just picking up a book that may look interesting can open up a wave of possibilities for them. Pick up a book. It could lead you to a new and fruitful hobby. 

Editorial by Adriana Parisi ‘24

we take our bows, and the curtain closes,

the stage lights dim and the music fades out.

there is a kind of euphoria throughout the air, a sense of completion, of post-show adrenaline.

the cast and crew, we are ecstatic and exhausted and overjoyed and overwhelmed,

and yet we could not be happier.

there’s a cast tradition

where after opening night

all of us get food at a diner.

we climb into booths and sit at tables, the restaurant packed with cast members and crew alike.

we stay past midnight.

i sleep in the car on the way back,

and there is still makeup on my face,

and my eyes, they still hurt from the blinding blaze of the spotlights,

but i could not be happier.

for that night, i go to sleep at two in the morning

knowing that tomorrow, i’ll do it all over again.

Poem by Caitlyn Plover, ‘25

January is going by quick,

The clock is starting to tick.

Midterms are coming up soon,

The amount of studying makes her sick.

She’s looking forward to June,

Where everything comes into tune.

She will finally get a break.

But quit with the fantasies, it’s only noon.

She comes home to open her book,

The number of notes that she took.

“I’m not ready for midterms,” she said,

She can only just bear to look.

As she puts her hands on her head,

Why not try harder instead?

The thought of midterms filled her with dread.

As she takes a deep breath and finally opens her eyes,

Her sheer determination appears to arise.

I will pass this, she says.

I will pass this, she says.

Poem by Kayla Aponte ‘25

Movies are something I’ve always taken interest in. Since the age of nine, almost ten, I have loved the art of making them and producing them. It started out when I was first introduced to iMovie. I had so much fun acting out trailers and editing silly sound effects. I knew I immediately loved it because it was the type of fun that could only be rivaled by the fun I would have writing. I made movie after movie, excited about this new medium given to me. To this day I love making short movies, jumping at any opportunity to use it for a school project or recreational. I can only hope that one day my script-writing skill will be put to good use. Though, for now I’ll just pass some SSS (Sam’s Script Secrets) to you!

People have asked me before about how I became satisfactory at editing and scripting, and to be honest I have no clue! Still, I’m going to try and help you out! Let’s start with the basics. Step one is to know a little bit about the script writing format. Babes, I am no professional, but I have read up on the format multiple times to the point where I can provide the fundamentals! If you want to look like a professional Hollywood script writer, write all your scripts in courier font. It is preferred to write in size 12 but not required. Next, you want to have a screen heading. A screen heading is there to basically describe the location of the scene taking place. It tells rather if you’re inside (int.) or outside (ext.), where you are, and what time of day. Here’s an example:

INT. OLIVE GARDEN - EVENING

On the next line, you will need to write the action. This line is quite easy! It’s just a narrative description of the action in the scene. It can be written out as such:

INT. OLIVE GARDEN - EVENING

JANET is hustling to make more garlic bread sticks.

Now, we can get to the fun part… the characters' lines! First, you want to put the character’s name center align, then below it you’ll write what is called a parenthetical. Patherntheticals are not required, but they do add more emotion to the dialogue and also help actors when performing. A parenthetical is the way a character says their line. After that, just write what you want them to say! Let’s continue using our prior example:

INT. OLIVE GARDEN - EVENING

JANET is hustling to make more garlic bread sticks, while GEORGE is preparing salad. One piece of bread rolls on the counter top. 

JANET

(yawning)

You deserve butter!

GEORGE

(Giggling)

You’re on a… roll!

Then you have got the basics! Happy scripting, Little Flower, and have a loaf-ly day!

Article by Samantha Weston ‘25

Thirty-six years ago, the Women’s Sports Foundation created National Girls and Women in Sports Day, a holiday designed to champion female student-athletes, higher-level competitive athletes, coaches, and administrators. It also recognizes lawmakers who have shown commitment to providing equitable opportunities in sports for girls and women everywhere. This year it was celebrated on February 2. 

On the foundation’s website, there is a wide variety of stories from women across America who are thankful for their experiences as athletes and grateful for what sports taught them. For example, Megan Blunk, a member of the U.S. National Team for Women’s Wheelchair Basketball, believes that sports are so important because of the lessons that they teach young girls. Since she grew up playing sports, Megan was able to grasp teamwork easily, be a supportive friend and teammate, and learn to challenge herself.  

The website also shares stories from women like Ameena Soliman, who have found administrative success in sports. Ameena is the Player Personnel Coordinator for the Philadelphia Eagles. She shares that sports were an essential part of her childhood and, today, she is more than happy to “call it work” as she holds her position on the staff of an NFL team. 

Little Flower’s athletic program harbors many hardworking young women who display nothing less than their best efforts in their games, matches, and meets. Among these are Allison Szychulski, Rahleijah Davenport, Katie Vishio, Olivia Zolk, and Liz Teel, who have stepped forward to share the highs and lows of being a student-athlete. 

Sophomore Allison Szychulski, a basketball and softball player at Little Flower, has been involved in athletics since the young age of three. Over the years, sports have become a “gateway away from the stress and chaos of the world” for her and they give her a healthy outlet to release her energy.  

Sophomore Allison Szychulski playing softball

At times, Allison is faced with tough decisions. She shares that there have been occasions when she had to decide between attending a school event or a sporting event, which was very difficult for her. Although she feels that she always makes the right decision, it is hard to manage a plate full of extracurricular activities.  

Rahleijah Davenport, a junior member of the volleyball and lacrosse teams, has been an athlete since she was in fifth grade. Before playing sports, Rahleijah was a very timid person; however, joining a team helped her come out of her shell and feel more confident about herself. She feels that playing sports has made her a better person, and for that, she is grateful.

For Rahleijah, the most challenging part of being a student-athlete is staying focused during a game and not stressing about upcoming assignments and tests. She expresses that sometimes it is difficult to tune out the hardships of school and keep her head in the game. Understandably, deadlines “mess with [her] head,” but every game she gets a little better at balancing these two pillars of her life. 

Junior, Katie Vishio, has been an athlete for fourteen years and currently plays tennis and softball at Little Flower. Sports hold a dear place in her heart because of their ability to make her feel like she belongs. Spending time with people who share her interests has always made Katie feel “a sense of inclusiveness.” Sports are so important to her that without them, she would be lost in her free time. 

With that being said, sports are very time-consuming, and Katie struggles to balance them with school and daily life. After attending a full day of school, working hard at practice, and starting homework late due to her busy schedule, Katie finds it difficult to take time for herself during which she can eat, shower, get a good night’s sleep, and spend time with her family and friends. “Thankfully, I have been able to find a balance, but sometimes it is still difficult to manage,” she says.  

Olivia Zolk ‘22 plays lacrosse and is a member of the basketball and track and field teams at Little Flower. Since she was about four years old, she has felt a strong sense of devotion toward sports. She uses them as an “escape” from all that is bothering her in the world. Olivia also expresses that sports taught her how to manage a jam-packed schedule and be equally dedicated to all of her commitments.  

 

As someone who struggles with math, Olivia finds it most difficult to balance that class alongside her sports, especially this year. However, she proactively found a solution to this problem that has worked well for her throughout the year. She often sacrifices her lunch period during the school day to get a head start on her math homework for the night.

Senior Liz Teel, a member of Little Flower’s volleyball team, has been an athlete for eleven years. Outside of school, she works as a gymnastics coach. “My life revolves around my sports, and so will my future careers,” she says. In college, Liz will be majoring in athletic training.  

Liz is incredibly passionate about sports and is overjoyed to dedicate her future life to them just as much as she has done in her youth. She attributes her creativity, determination, and coordination to the lessons sports have taught her throughout her life.  

One of the toughest lessons Liz has learned during her time as a student-athlete is how to prioritize her academics. Her love for sports has often wedged itself between her and her studies. However, after taking time to focus on school, Liz realized that her education is extremely important to her athletic career. The critical thinking and active learning that she has strengthened through her schoolwork will make her a stronger athlete in the long run.  

These five impressive young women are only a few of the talented athletes that attend Little Flower. Every member of LF’s sports teams undergoes intense hardships during their respective seasons. Happy National Girls and Women in Sports Day to every one of you!

Article by Megan LoMastro ‘23

Source: https://www.womenssportsfoundation.org/get-involved/ngwsd/#

For many years, music has been part of our daily lives. Movies and shows have soundtracks, and even some students study better with music playing. It takes talented individuals to make beautiful music, and here at Little Flower, we are lucky to have such individuals! December 16th, our gifted students were supposed to perform, but unfortunately did not get the opportunity to showcase their hard work.

All the teachers in the instrumental and vocal departments have been doing an excellent job in preparing students for their concert. Despite the concert's unfortunate postponement, the vocal and instrumental people are still excited to share their pieces with the other students in January. 

As an instrumental student, you can trust me when I say there were a lot of bumps in the road. We were off tempo, pieces needed reconstruction, and group practice was nonexistent! But now, we have worked out most of the kinks and our playing sounds better than it ever has. I’m sure Mr. Purri and Mr. Gallagher are extremely proud of how far we’ve come. When the concert comes around, I’m sure they both will be glowing with pride! 

Now the concert will be the instrumental’s debut, but this is not the vocal students' first time performing for us. Remembering back to our last mass, the students sang the hymns beautifully and made mass all the more enjoyable. So there is no surprise that they will have something magnificent to perform in January.

I hope that the setback of the concert being postponed does not turn you away from the idea of coming to see us in January! Your support would mean so much to your peers. That’s all for this article, and I hope that you have a very merry Christmas! Oh, and a happy new year! 

 by Samantha Weston ‘25

There is a new club at Little Flower called Athletes Helping Athletes. This club is a branch of the Athletes Helping Athletes organization. The main goal of this organization is to connect local special needs athletes with mainstream student-athletes in the spirit of friendship for their mutual benefit and inspiration.

Bringing Athletes Helping Athletes to Little Flower has been a goal of mine since my freshman year. I found out about the organization through my cousin who is currently a senior at Archbishop Ryan and vice president of the AR branch. I recall feeling “inspired and motivated” when I heard about the club. Over the course of my years at Little Flower, I had tried multiple times to get the club started but to no avail. “I think it was mostly due to the pandemic that we could not get anything started because once I got the courage to bring it up, we went all virtual.” 

However, this year was different. Once everything got back to a little closer to normal, I decided to reach out to Mr. Tim. Mr. Tim McCartney became the new Athletic Director this year and has a daughter who has worked with the organization during her high school years. I remember that Mr. Tim was more than happy to help bring the organization to Little Flower and thus, Athletes Helping Athletes came to LF, but not without more help.

I soon realized that I would need more help. I needed student leaders to help lead the club and the search began. I reached out to Gabrielle Dever ‘23 to see if she would be interested in helping and we began our work. Gab has two special needs brothers and has worked with the organization in the past so starting this club is very close to her heart. Athletes Helping Athletes helped her brothers feel a sense of belonging growing up so Gab was more than willing to give back to the organization that helped her family. 

Gab and I then found out that Olivia Zolk ‘22 was interested in bringing Athletes Helping Athletes to Little Flower. When I found this out, I was “jumping for joy” to have another person show such an interest in this organization as me and Gab. I remember thinking to myself, “I cannot believe this is really happening right now. It is actually working.” I was shocked, to say the least, that my idea was coming together after two years of attempting to get it started. 

Once the three of us got together, we reached out to Mr. Leonetti. Mr. Leonetti is the president of the entire Athletes Helping Athletes organization and, as I like to put it, the “big guy you need to talk to in order to begin a branch.” He told us that we would need two more student leaders, so we began searching. Olivia Zolk sent out an email to the senior class for students to apply for the positions, and after careful consideration from the three of us, we chose our officers. Emily Widmayer ‘22 and Maura Kelly ‘22 became the new officers after they both described how much it would mean for them to be a part of an organization such as this. Emily and Maura both have cousins with special needs so they know how important it is for them to be included. 

After establishing who would be an officer, it was time to come up with what jobs everyone would be doing. I, Katie Vishio, became the president, Gabrielle Dever, the vice president, Emily Widmayer was chosen as secretary, Maura Kelly, treasurer, and Olivia Zolk became the photographer and videographer. 

The five of us then went on to send an email to the entire student body about signing up for the club and received many applications to join. The number of students grew significantly with each passing hour and the officers and I were more than pleased. The club held its first official meeting on December 7, 2021, and the turnout was more than what I was expecting. “I thought maybe five girls would show up, but it was close to 20!” 

After the success of the first meeting, the club was invited to its first event at Archbishop Ryan for a Christmas Parade. Gab Dever, Emily Widmayer, Maura Kelly, Megan LoMastro, Anna Golden, Kylie Hughes, Casey Roberts, and I all attended the event and had a blast. We decorated a car with Christmas-themed decorations and set up carnival-like games. Overall, the day was a success filled with laughter and joyful talk. 

Athletes Helping Athletes is a great organization that Little Flower is proud to be a part of now. All of the members of this club are excited for the upcoming year with the events, fundraisers, and meetings that will be taking place. As for Gab, Liv, Maura, Emily, and myself, we are proud to lead the club and watch it grow in our Little Flower community.

by Katie Vishio ‘23

This year’s musical is going to be one of the best yet! From funny lines to well-executed numbers, “Sister Act” will surely leave its mark on the Little Flower theatre program. Ticket sales will begin on Wednesday, December 1st. The show dates are as follows:  12/10 At 7:30pm  ---  12/11  At 7:30pm ---  12/12 ---  At 2:30pm

You do not want to miss it! We have talented and experienced cast members such as Grace Krakauskas, Gabby Dugan, Riley Treegoob, Qaniya Benjamin, and many more! We’ve taken the time to ask the members, and the director, a few questions.

Q: Which number are you looking forward to the most?

“Sunday Morning Fever’ because it is a really fun dance!”

-Kaitlin Carey, Ensemble

“Probably ‘Sunday Morning Fever’, because it’s fun and exciting. Plus the whole cast is in it!”

-Bridget Comas, Sister Mary Patrick 

“I’m looking forward to ‘Lady in the Long Black Dress’ because it’s humorous and sheds a lot of light on the show.”

-Kenzie Smith, Joey

Q: What is your favorite part about being in this musical?

“I like the energy that my characters bring and it is very fun to emulate. I also like how creative everyone is, and it’s fun to participate in the outside activities like the karaoke night.”

-Grace Krakauskas, TJ and Sister Mary Lazarus

“It’s been a while since I’ve been on stage, so it’s nice to do that again. Especially with a show as nice as ‘Sister Act'.”

-Honor Crosby, Mother Superior 

“It’s fun and I like to dance to the different numbers. I also enjoy singing. Not to mention it gives me something to do!”

-Rachael Parker, Ensemble

Q: How do you feel now that the show is just around the corner?

“I’m just happy that when it’s finally over I can hang with my friends. I like being in the show but rehearsals can get hectic!”

-Raychel Anderson, Ensemble

“Honestly a little worried because we’re not able to come in too often and there’s still a lot of work to be done, but we’re very excited and confident that we’ll be done in time.”

-Jeanette Piloto, Stage Crew

“I’m getting a little nervous, but not too nervous at the same time because we’re getting stuff done.”

-Natalia Vazquez, Stage Crew Manager 

“I feel a little stressed out about it because we really have nothing done for it but I know that as we get closer to the show date we’ll be able to get it together and make this show amazing.”

-Billie Brabazon, Monsignor O’Hara

Q: Why did you decide to audition for the show?

“What made me decide to audition this year is that this will be my last show at Little Flower and I was pretty bummed out that we weren’t able to do one last year.”

-Billie Brabazon, Monsignor O’Hara

“I auditioned because I was a part of the show in my freshman year and missed out on getting to do it again last year because of Covid. I loved doing it my freshman year and am so happy we’re able to do a show again this year!”

-Ashley Feliccitti, Ensemble

“I’ve been in musicals since I was really little, and Little Flower has great advertisements for their musicals and put on fun shows.”

-Lily Mackin, TJ and Sister Mary Lazarus

Q: Do you think the cast this year has been doing a good job and are they almost ready for the show?

“The cast and crew of Sister Act have been working extremely hard this year. Putting on a show is a multi-step process which requires a lot of dedication. I think that given all the extra-curricular activities, work schedules, athletics responsibilities, and schoolwork that our students have to deal with each day, they have been doing a great job of balancing everything with our stringent show schedule. While I, as the director, am never fully sure that the show is ‘ready’ (it's the perfectionist in me!) I certainly think that we are well on our way. With a few more weeks to go we are approaching the last hurdle before our show dates, but I have no doubt that we will get everything finished and put on an amazing show for everyone!”

-Alexis Tschanz, Director of “Sister Act”

They’d love for you to come out and support the show, so please do so! Have a blessed week Little Flower!

Article by Samantha Weston and Caitlyn Plover '25

Little Flower offers a slew of extracurricular activities, including Model UN! Designed for everybody, this club allows students to enhance their public speaking skills and have fun.  

Students meet in a format similar to that of the United Nations, and discuss a particular topic from the perspective of a specific country. They must do research ahead of time, and discuss both what issues their country faces under said topic as well as solutions that can be implemented to solve those problems.

At LF, there are monthly meetings during which members debate among each other, as well as conferences both in person and digitally against students from other schools. The club has been at Little Flower for years, and is now more involved than ever.  

For anyone looking to participate, or who may have suggestions for the club, feel free to email [email protected]! No experience is required to join, and there are plenty of opportunities for students to improve their current skills. 

Advertisement by Grace Krakauskas '23

This year, Little Flower introduced a new club open to all students, the Gaming Club. This club originated at John W. Hallahan High School and is proud to continue its legacy at Little Flower. The club was started in September 2019 by president Isabella Parrella, vice president Anna Miriello and secretary Leila Montgomery. The club is currently run by moderators Ms. Corridoni and Mr. Montgomery, both of which are incredibly dedicated to watching this club grow as a community. The club held its first meeting on Monday, October 18, 2021 and currently consists of 44 young women who are passionate about games and having a fun time. 

In this club, students are given the opportunity to participate in playing various games, ranging from board games to video games on a variety of game consoles. The club holds biweekly meetings where they focus on a certain topic to delve deeper into. The club also gives students the opportunity to meet fellow classmates who share similar interests in games. The overall mission of this club is to provide a safe place for students where they can comfortably express their interests.

Club member Ava Mitchell ‘23 gave her thoughts regarding the club. “I love the gaming club because it gives me the strongest sense of community I’ve ever experienced in any community I’ve been in. We are all tightly knit together regardless of what games we each play. The club is more than just a club, it’s a family. Every meeting is super fun and very social, and I always look forward to the next one!”

In the coming weeks, the club anticipates the arrival of their Christmas party which is scheduled to take place sometime in December. The club also has many big plans for raising money such as a bake sale during lunches and a schoolwide Quizzo night for all students and their families.

Article by Anna Miriello '23 and Isabella Parrella '23

Are you in need of calligraphy works for your next special occasion or decorating opportunity? Honey Inked Lettering is the perfect business to meet all of your needs! 

 
Lindsay Dugan, a member of the graduating class of 2012, started Honey Inked Lettering after exploring calligraphy as a creative outlet and taking a few courses online to really perfect her art. She even did the calligraphy for the wedding decorations of one of her closest friends, a fellow Little Flower graduate!
 
For 50 dollars per hour paired with material fees, you too can have beautifully written calligraphy courtesy of one of LF’s very own! She is also partnered with
Steel Eagle Weddings, Divas with the Details, and Events Everlasting. 
 
Ms. Dugan graduated with a bachelor’s degree from Immaculata University in Elementary and Special Education, and is currently working toward her master’s. She currently works as a middle school special education teacher, and does some beautiful calligraphy work on the side! She hopes to extend her talents to lettering for creative workshops. 

Article by Grace Krakauskas ‘23
 

For more information, you can follow her on social media

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VENMO and CASH APP are available payment options

It’s prom season! In celebration, The Theresian surveyed Little Flower’s teachers and staff regarding their prom experiences, more specifically their not-so-ideal prom experiences.  
 
Two weeks before Ms. Marks’ prom, her date fell through. His parents had grounded him and refused to let him attend the prom, despite how unfair it was to Ms. Marks. Frantically, she searched for a new date. She ended up attending the prom with a friend from her church who actually ended up being the perfect date and fit right in with her friends. Ms. Marks added, “He was also a willing photographer for all of the pictures with friends that I wanted to get and let me dance with all of my different guy friends there too,”  
 
At the dances held in the springtime, Ms. Marks’ school had a special tradition for seniors; they would attend wearing outdated prom dresses. “I wore a light green dress that my great-grandmother and grandmother had both worn that, despite it being about 50 years old, still seemed to be in pretty good condition.” That, however, was not the case; it fell apart! Luckily, Ms. Marks was able to wear her date’s coat for most of the night to cover up the rips and holes that wear all over the dress.  
 
Miss Alexis was sure to find a date well in advance for her senior prom. However, once her date agreed to go with her, they never spoke about it any further. About four days before the prom, Miss Alexis finally reached out again, and luckily, her date was still willing to go and had not forgotten about the event. She says, “To this day I have no idea how I managed to procrastinate that badly over prom though,”
 
In her junior year at Little Flower, Mrs. Vivino searched far and wide for the perfect dress to wear to her dance. Once she found it, she excitedly discussed the dress with a friend who also expressed similar excitement in finding a perfect dress for herself as well. When it came time for the dance, it turned out, Mrs. Vivino and her friend had been discussing the same exact dress! Instead of being upset, the two laughed it off and had a good time.
 
In her senior year, Mrs. Vivino once again found a perfect dress to wear to prom. This year, though, she had the dress professionally dyed to a specific color that she had in mind prior to buying it. Her friend who she matched with at the junior dance showed up wearing the same dress again! Although this time, the colors were not the same. Mrs. Vivino says, “At that point, we were so hysterical over the fact that we both picked the same dresses twice, we didn't care we were twins. We just enjoyed being seniors, having fun, and collecting as many Little Flower memories as we could,”
 
Mr. Ronzoni recalls his senior prom as well. He was well prepared with a date and an iconic denim tuxedo, but not everything went as planned. On the day before the prom, Mr. Ronzoni decided to play basketball with a few friends. It did not take long for him to take a fall on the concrete and fracture his knee. “I was lying in the hospital while my classmates attended the prom. Lesson learned,”
 
This school year has evidently been dysfunctional. It is nice to know that Little Flower’s teachers and staff are empathetic to our current juniors and seniors.  

Article by Megan LoMastro ‘23

Ms. Marks attending her senior prom

Ms. Marks' beautiful vintage dress... before it fell apart

Miss Alexis attending her senior prom