There were many stand-outs from the cast. The three lead characters certainly set the tone for everyone with spot-on performances. Amaia Rodriguez-Lopez did an amazing job as Pony-Boy Curtis, while Lilian Tremblay was outstanding as tragic Johnny Cade. Their on-stage rapport was on point and seamless. Sofia Tauriello slayed as Dallas WInston, providing her own fiery interpretation of the combustable Winston.

The student's performances were enhanced by their rotating sets, designed by local artistic design troupe, Themendous. The set pieces not only enhanced the immersive affect of the play, but were designed for swift turn-over, so there was little lag in between acts. As always, the students were heavily involved in lighting, sound, and costume design. Overall, it was a great show and a successful week-end!

Shertel, was a no-nonsense English and Writing teacher, who commanded respect and demanded your best. She was not afraid to challenge her students regardless of their ability. Her goal was simply to get the very best out of each and every person who walked into her classroom. The die-hard Yankee fan was never shy to voice her opinions, good or bad. You may not like what she had to say, but you knew it was honest and it was accurate.

The phrase, "They don't make 'em like that anymore" was made for Shertel, who's retirement will be hard felt for not only the students, but the staff who have grown to depend on her serene, sage-like presence for the last four decades. Fair winds Mrs. Shertel, you have earned your rest. We will miss you.

It took 20 matches and two years to win their first match, this year it took 2. Paired up against local rival, Hoboken, WHS trounced the Red WIngs, to earn the W. Led by Sophie Axtens and Danielle Whelan, the girls are off to a solid 1-2-1 start this year. The tie came against Harrison, who trounced the young Indians last season; great strides in a year.

If there is one program that quantifies the dedication of Weehawken students it is swimming. Not only do the girls have to arise at 5AM for practice, they have to do so in the dead of winter, and hop on a bus to West New York. To do this for four months, for a program in it's infancy shows what these Weehawken kids are made of, and how success is in their future.

First, a few days before Turkey Day, the Weehawken 8th Grade Boy's Basketball team, under the direction of alumni Brian Hernandez, engaged in a team building day in Union City. For several hours, the boys helped the Union City High School ROTC program unload and deliver 40,000 turkeys to needy families all over Hudson County. Yes, 40,000 turkeys! The boys were in charge of recycling the boxes, the frozen birds came in, and they did so with machine like precision, forming a line to pass the boxes to the recycling trucks. The boys also took turns unpacking and handing out turkeys to the delivery people. All in all, it was a nice opportunity for the boys to help an estimated 150,000 get much need cheer for the holiday.

Much closer to home, in what has become a Thanksgiving Day tradition, our Peer Leaders, went about town with Mayor Turner and the Town Council delivering turkeys and food to needy families. These selfless kids, took time away from their families, on this celebrated day, to shuttle meals all over Weehawken to the delight of many who would have gone hungry. For many hours they climbed stairs and presented food to one happy family after the other. Truly a day to be thankful for.