Lighthouse Times

School News Paper

Lighthouse Times

Greetings readers, Thank you for reading Lighthouse times, The Riverside Academy High School Newspaper! We would like to welcome you to the final edition for the 23-24 school year. This edition is dedicated to student work. The authors, editors, and photographers, have worked hard to share their talents with you the readers. It is important to note that we are a small staff of writers, editors and photographers. If you are interested in submitting work, or joining the team, please reach out to me (Mr. Lyman) and we can get you going. Meetings are every Monday and Wednesday (unless rescheduled) in the Library after school. We hope you enjoy this edition and we look forward to more student work in the future. Cheers, Editor and Chief, Mr. Lyman

Gun Violence and Our Students A recap of the Gun Violence Panel Written by Aiden Devito Edited by Mylo Senwesky Photos by Patience Howie According to district attorney Eugene Partridge, in 2023, about fifty-five thousand people were shot in America. About eighteen thousand of those ended up being homicides. Around two thousand of those victims were under the age of seventeen. In 2024, there were about twelve thousand homicides, four hundred under the age of seventeen.  Most students here at Riverside are under the age of seventeen, and each one of us could be an addition to that statistic, which is the most possible reason why we were given a seat on this panel. In this panel, we had attorneys. Organizations like S.N.U.G (a program which engages the highest-risk individuals who are causing violence in communities with high rates of violent crime), police officers and others who work in that field, and an everyday civilian who ended up making the choice to pull the trigger. Eugene Partridge explained that the consequence of possessing a loaded gun as an adult (over the age of nineteen) in New York is a C violent felony, and you can get 3 ½ years in prison, a law put in place by politicians. You can also be arrested for being in close contact with somebody with a gun due to a presumption law.  Erie County legislator Howard J. Johnson explains his history with gun violence. Earlier in his life he was held at gunpoint near his car and was shot, which ended up with him having to be put into an induced coma. He showed students the wounds on his stomach while describing the over sixty surgeries he needed, along with an inch of his intestines removed. Quote, “Life became more serious after the attack.” Next, we had a speaker whose name we didn’t get, but his story is still important. This speaker explained that he was arrested and subsequently sentenced to twenty-five years in prison before age eighteen, on August 12, 1992. Quote, “The worst decision of my life was to pick up a gun,” he said. “The choices you make right now can affect your entire life.” One student asked, “What did you learn from doing twenty-five to life?” To which the speaker responded, “I learned how to be in prison. They taught me how to survive, they teach you how to hurt people… I left prison with the determination that I was never gonna commit a crime.” A different student asked, “Would you do it again?” To which he answered with a story, where the speaker was in traffic and a car with two teens pulled up, then one of the teens looked down at the man and called him ugly. The speaker explains that he had to respond in a way that wouldn’t hurt him or anyone else, which was silence, as he said that he looked ahead and walked away, having the knowledge not to start something like that again. A representative from S.N.U.G then vocalized what their program was, where they talk to kids in high-risk areas with gun violence. Unfortunately, she also had experience with gun violence first-hand when her husband was shot and killed in a gas station. There have also been members of S.N.U.G who have been victims of gun violence.  Then, Mr. Gillio, our co-principal, told a story where he went into an alley where he found a burnt car near his school. It was reported, and after the dental records were looked at, it was found out that the body belonged to an aunt of somebody he went to school with. It is unfortunate that these stories have happened, and the staff here at Riverside hope that the students they taught and watched grown, don’t end up being on either end of the gun. For your fellow students, for your parents, and for your teachers, put down the weapon.

Helicopter Landing Highlights Reported by A. Devito Edited by M. Senwesky On Tuesday morning of the student’s prom week, both students and staff gathered for a memorable pep rally that featured an unexpected highlight—a Mery Flight helicopter landing on the school’s football field. This unique event was designed to deliver an important safety message for the upcoming prom. The pep rally took a surprising turn when a helicopter flew in overhead and landed on the school field, sending turf flying and creating a stir amongst the students. Despite the mess, the helicopter's arrival was a captivating moment. After landing, students were allowed to approach the helicopter, separated by grade level, adding an interactive element to the event. With prom night approaching, the rally served as a platform to address the dangers of drinking and driving. Representatives from Engine 36 and Mercy Flight spoke to the students, emphasizing the importance of making safe and responsible choices. "We are telling everybody about the dangers of drinking and driving," said a representative from Engine 36. "We are showing the capabilities we have to save lives. We can work together with Mercy Flight and Buffalo Fire to get patients transported to where they need to go. From Buffalo Fire, we want to let the students know to make the best decisions every day. Stay safe and always consider calling 911 in any emergency. You won't get in trouble if someone is drinking or under the influence of drugs. Call 911. We're here to help. Buffalo Fire will respond within three minutes. Stay safe." The main speaker from Mercy Flight added, "I know the teenagers are excited to drive; they're excited to get out there. Just when you're driving, pay attention. Drugs and alcohol mixed with driving equal me having a career. Don’t do it. You ruin your life. You ruin innocent people’s lives. Take care of each other. Be kind to each other. The world’s rough enough. So just be kind to each other." The helicopter landing and safety messages made this pep rally a notable event, blending excitement with a serious message. As prom night approaches, students are reminded to prioritize safety and make responsible decisions. Overall, Tuesday's pep rally successfully conveyed important life lessons, leaving a lasting impression on students and highlighting the significance of making safe choices during not only this time of year, but in general while driving.

“It was our most successful yet!” -Mrs. Marshall Blood Drive Coordinator

In an effort to return to school wide activities (as they were pre Covid), class trips returned this year. Freshman: Old Fort Niagara Sophomores: Maid of the Mist Niagara Falls Juniors: NYPA & Beaver Island Seniors: Letchworth State Park & White water rafting Here are the visual high lights.

Lighthouse times would like to celebrate Riverside’s CTE Students where were inducted into the National Technical Honor Society. Students honored: A. Davila; N. Oo, O. Far, N. Camacho, D. Grinage, and A. Kelly. CTE Seniors H. Bade, G. Muniz, and J. Ingram were honored with their teacher Mr. Krajna for their work with the Conservation program.

It is with great honor that we here at Lighthouse times present to you the inductees for the National Honors society here at Riverside Academy High School! Inductees: M. Hussein; A. Kelly; J. Ingram; N. Anne; A, Davila; N. Camacho; J. Diaz Negron; N. Oo, N. Lian Khun. Congratulations students, this is well earned and deserved. Students were inducted by advisor Ms. Fields, and Principal Conrad.

Since the 2023-2024 school year is coming to its end, the students here at Riverside want to congratulate this year's seniors, The Class of 2024. The senior’s award ceremony this year was well put together by the staff, and attended by underclassmen and families alike. Besides from a few outliers, the outfits sported-as they got to see their class’s final high school achievements-were dazzling. We specifically would like to congratulate our top senior representatives; Sanzida Nur, Millick Hussien, and Nun Zi Zo Lian Khum who earned the scholarships this year for academic excellence, the first two of which are the class of 2024 Valedictorian and Salutatorian respectively. We wish all the seniors a happy graduation and a farewell onto your new paths!

Greetings readers, Thank you for reading Lighthouse times, The Riverside Academy High School Newspaper! We would like to welcome you to the third edition fore the 23-24 school year. This edition is dedicated to student work. The authors, editors, and photographers, have worked hard to share their talents with you the readers. It is important to note that we are a small staff of writers, editors and photographers. If you are interested in submitting work, or joining the team, please reach out to me (Mr. Lyman) and we can get you going. Meetings are every Monday and Wednesday (unless rescheduled) in the Library after school. We hope you enjoy this edition and we look forward to more student work in the future. Cheers, Editor and Chief, Mr. Lyman

And just like that, we are in 2024. Back from break and into January Exams, The second half of the year is here. The following is an interview with Principal Conrad conducted by student reporter Aiden Devito. Reported by A, Devito Edited by M. Senwesky The marking period just recently ended, and on a rough note too. What was meant to be a three-day weekend ended up being a week full of piles of snow and freezing cold temperature, which meant students and teachers alike had to try and catch up to regular scheduled classwork, especially with the regents coming soon after for most students. We asked our principal some questions regarding the overall grade and performance, and even asked her for some advice to quickly pick up those grades. “Since the marking period had just ended, have the students’ grades declined or elevated since the last marking period, or even in the past semesters.” “Overall, yes there is a decline, and exam grades made me less than happy; however, all is not lost! The best part about school is you get to do a ‘do over’ each day to make it count and do better than the day before. As we approach the final stretch of the school year, I am excited to see so many students want to take a stronger role in their education. I want students to ensure that take advantage of the online credit recovery program, study halls and afterschool support Monday-Thursday.” “What classes have been doing better or worse?” “It’s not classes perse- some students can always do better, and some students continue to make choices that do not support their academic growth.” “What are changes you could suggest being done in both students and teachers so the grades can increase?” “I want to see a super strong push in review of exam prep taking. Students need to write write write and write! They need to build stamina to take the exams! These exams are 3 hours and have a lot of writing- the students can do it- but practice makes it easier. Additionally- student have all the power to get great grades! The need to be on time to school each day, in classes on time.” “Also, we just recently had the snowstorm and most students had most of the week off due to exams, so do you think a lot of potential work had to be cancelled? If so, do you think if that work was done then maybe the grades wouldn't be the way they are now? Or do you believe the break was much needed for both students and teachers?” “Absolutely! But that’s what makes our teachers so awesome! They can pivot to support studies. AND the kids are resilient as well given the need to prepare on their own in most cases. I don't think that break was much needed at that time- but what I do think is that teachers work really hard they put a lot into preparing material for kids and get tired when some students don't pay attention, create classroom disturbances, and I feel the kids’ words too that they feel teachers don't get their side. Breaks a great for the year! A time to reflect and always have the opportunity to come back and do better!”

As the winter months wind down, as does the winter sports season here at Riverside Academy High School. The months are some of the busiest for Riverside athletics. Winter brings us Basketball season (which includes Boys JV and Varsity Basketball, and Girls Varsity Basketball), Bowling (coed team), and new this year, Indoor Track and Field. Please enjoy the collection of images taken by Mr. Lyman, Angel V, and Tommy C. for the winter sports season. Sadly, we were unable to secure any images from the inaugural Indoor Track and Field season. The girls Varsity Basketball season brought many wins and success. This season, we celebrated seniors Patience Howie, Nay’Shawna Goodman, and Amina Osman. Congrats ladies on an amazing season and time at Riverside!

The Varsity Boys season showed a lot of improvement as the team continues to grow and improve with young players working hard. This year, the team honored seniors Nasip Salim, Landon Jaeckle, and Lionel Tisona (Laf) for their contributions to the team during their time here at Riverside.

Riverside Academy High School presents: Lighthouse Times School Newspaper. One Voice! "...One Voice can change a room. And if it changes a room. it can change a city. And if it an change a city It can change a state And if it can change a state it can change a nation. If it changes the nation it can change the world..." "Fired up? Ready to go!" The Editor's Desk. Greetings readers, Thank you for reading Lighthouse times, The Riverside Academy High School Newspaper! We would like to welcome you to the second edition fore the 23-24 school year. This edition is dedicated to student work. The authors, editors, and photographers, have worked hard to share their talents with you the readers. It is important to note that we are a small staff of writers, editors and photographers. If you are interested in submitting work, or joining the team, please reach out to me (Mr. Lyman) and we can get you going. Meetings are every Monday and Wednesday (unless rescheduled) in the Library after school. We hope you enjoy this edition and we look forward to more student work in the future. Cheers, Editor and Chief, Mr. Lyman

Student Voices. Boys Basketball (JV and Varsity) written by Aiden Devito Edited by Mylo Senwesky Riverside vs BuffSci Basketball Games *BuffSci 69, Riverside 56* BuffSci played well and won the first game with 69 points, while Riverside finished with 56. Both teams played hard, but BuffSci unfortunately ended up on top, despite the efforts of Riverside players. During halftime, Riverside cheerleaders cheered, "We're number one!", but irony hung in the air when BuffSci claimed victory with 69 points to Riverside's 56. The cheer added an unintentional touch of humor, contrasting the final score and adding to the competitive atmosphere on the court. The game showcased Buffie’s dominance and Riverside's efforts, making it a captivating start. Despite the enthusiastic cheer, Riverside fell short, further helping to emphasize that actions on the court speak louder than halftime chants. *Varsity Game: Riverside 44, BuffSci 50* In the varsity matchup, Riverside scored 44, but BuffSci clinched the win with 50 points. Player 25 from Riverside stood out, making the most shots, and causing BuffSci's Player 11 to fall twice. It was like watching two opposing main characters go off against each other, considering their matching green shoes. But again, despite efforts from Riverside, BuffSci's teamwork prevailed. The game unfolded with subdued anticipation, and BuffSci emerged victorious. All the students of Riverside can do is hope that our team does better next time. Go Riverside! Spirited Showdowns and Retro Vibes A recap of November 17th, 2023, Riverside’s pep rally written by Aiden Devito Edited by Mylo Senwesky The energy was up, and the gym buzzed with excitement during November’s pep rally. From thrilling games to dazzling outfits, the event was a perfect blend of spirited competition and nostalgic vibes. Scream, shout and let it out. Ms. Hooks led an outstanding cheer, infusing the gym with enthusiasm. Despite one small hiccup of someone being offbeat, the overall cheer resonated with the spirit of the event. Let the games begin. The seniors kicked off the games with a spirited victory in a unique contest. The students’ aim was to knock over a bowling pin and successfully pick it back up using only their feet. The seniors highlighted their agility and teamwork, claiming the first win of the game. Following that, Seniors managed to snatch up yet another win with their win in a game of “Simon Says” where students must grab the cup quicker than their opponents on the command. Juniors also earned two wins with a less messy version of “pass the slime” challenge with cotton balls and for once seniors had it rough with the first pass spilling most of the cotton on the ground, and like the seniors, gained another win in the “standing noodle challenge", placing both the juniors and the seniors at a tie (if this is competition students are keeping track of.) In a game with students popping balloons and finding hidden letters to spell the word “Frontiers”, Sophomores seemed to be the most collected here, and ate up the competition. The freshman, however, seemed to have lost the energy they always seem to have during the day, ending the pep rally without a single dub. Continued on the next page.

Student Voices. Memorable styles Teachers carried the theme of the 90’s with boomboxes, school themed sports headbands, chains, and sports fans, which was sure to give teachers a bit of nostalgia. But while the teachers were having fun, Anna Marie had all eyes on her as she wore a long, black dress, with it sparkling like a disco ball the dance floor was missing. The rhythm of the night The DJ at the event kept the energy alive with a meme sound board along with switching through the newest hit songs for the students, and oldies, but goodies, for the teachers. Clean exit with lingering plates As the dance came to a close, students exited the gym without leaving a significant mess. However, scattered paper plates served as a reminder of the lively celebration that had taken place. In the end, the high school’s pep rally was a memorable blend of spirited competition, dazzling outfits, and nostalgic tunes. The students highlighted their talents, and the event served as a testament to the vibrant school spirit that unites the entire student body. Interviews with Student Leadership (Senior Class Council) written by Helen Interview Questions: As a senior officer member, how do you plan to address or improve the School’s sense of community and unity? What challenges or concerns do you perceive among students, and how do we aim to address them to improve the overall students experience? How do you collaborate with faculty members and teachers to create a better environment for students? What made you want to run for these Senior Officer positions? Angel (Class Officer): 1- I would like alongside my team to keep making small activities that will help build a better relationship between classmates. 2- there all a lot of concerns due to problems between students regarding drama and stuff like that but if both teachers and students understood that somethings need to change I see no reason to step in for something they can do themselves. 3- we build relationships that help each other for new ideas that can help towards the school or just for a better learning environment. 4- our goal is to make our last year something we can remember, that being something that all seniors want, our vision is connected in one way or another. 5- What made me want to be a part of this group is helping our school come with innovative ideas alongside my team members to make this school year a good year where we can all just have fun. Tommy (Class VP): 1. I have already started addressing issues with the community in meetings with principal Conrad and the school board. I do my best to improve our school community in any way that I find possible. 2. I think the hardest thing for students at Riverside is getting work done. I feel like the best way to target. This would make sure that work is interesting and make sure that students are engaged. 3. Being able to have conversations with the teachers as an officer and students as a friend helps us understand both sides of issues, events, classes, and everything in between I think this position is really important to the school community 4. I would like to see the senior class, improve in motivation, and really try to strive to get better grades to graduate. 5. I wanted to become senior class vice president because I would like to make a difference at Riverside. Helen 1. To enhance the school's sense of community, I’d like to organize more inclusive events, and encourage more participation in various in-school activities that cater to diverse interests whether it’s an in-school or afterschool.

Student Voices. 2. The most problem I see uprising in our student body is the fact that students constantly disrespect their teachers and disregard the work that is given to them, especially the younger classmen. placing harsher punishments could possibly let the students rethink what they are doing because their behavior will lead to their downfall later in their high school career and possible their future. 3. collaborating with teachers is key. We will establish open communication channels, usually through regular meetings, to ensure students' needs are understood, and we can collectively create a positive learning environment. 4. My vision is a united senior class; goals include memorable events, dedicated support, and especially motivate our peers who are ignoring their studies that can lead to them not graduating. 5. I wanted to run for senior officers because I wanted to be involved in our school and hopefully make a positive contribution even if its small. All little things count. Riverside Reflections What is riverside like in the eyes of a new sophomore? By Aiden Devito While I could possibly say that this is the only school I've been to just so I can save myself from teachers expecting me to disappear into thin air, I will openly admit that this is the third high school I've ever been to–since starting high school in 2021–and possibly the longest time I’ve ever been in school. Also, keep in mind that I have only been in this school since around April or May of 2023, so my experiences and knowledge here may be different from anybody who has spent all four years at this school. In other words, asking me to talk about my experience here with a good match to somebody else’s would be like trying to ask a newborn child to beatbox the amen break. They will cry and if you put me on the spot, I will do the same. But to get to my actual experience, it can’t be put into actual words, which is ironic in a way considering this is an essay about my experience here, so I’ll just make up a scene for you to imagine. Imagine an extremely supportive crowd clapping and cheering awkwardly because they have no idea what the joke made by the comedian even meant, but they don’t want to hurt his feelings. However, they also keep clapping because they don’t know how or when to stop and then in between the awkward claps... there are loud “Woo’s” coming from this random guy named Jamie who sat in the furthest seat from the stage. Jamie is just overjoyed to be there despite sharing the same thoughts with the rest of the crowd. I would say this school puts me in the crowd and an amalgamation of every teacher I've had and will eventually have will be combined into this one comedian. Basically, what I'm saying is that I have no idea what is happening here at any given moment, but there’s a part of me that enjoys being here. No matter how chaotic the students can become or how much I may dislike certain teachers or how stressful it may be to keep up with everyone’s expectations of grades, it’s still a place to be outside of home. All my friends and the teachers who support me the most are here. It may be a bit crazy or sad to say but I might even consider some people here family. I’m still trying to process as to why I feel this way because I genuinely dislike school in theory, so if I can be handed a BuzzFeed quiz that would be wonderful. In the end, no matter how I say it, some other students may agree with me to some degree even with ignoring what their home life is. Teachers here are as supportive as they can be, and that’s realistically all a student could ever ask for. 9/10

Coach Bill “Ice” Russell is an institution here at Riverside. A legend who still graces the sidelines drew many alumni and former players for the dedication of the Gym here at Riverside. Known by many as “Ice,” Bill gave selflessly to the team and his players. While dedication of the gym to him is a small gesture compared to his body of work and dedication, it was an amazing night honoring a legend. A special Thanks to the Bruno family for donating the dedication sign.

Riverside High School September/October 2023 ONE VOICE! " ...ONE VOICE CAN CHANGE A ROOM. AND IF IT CHANGES A ROOM. IT CAN CHANGE A CITY. AND IF IT AN CHANGE A CITY IT CAN CHANGE A STATE AND IF IT CAN CHANGE A STATE IT CHANGE A NATION. IF IT CHANGES THENATION IT CAR CHANGE THE YORLD..." "FIRED UP? READY TO GO!" From our Engineer Brian, If you have any concerns or request, reach out via email. The available furniture is in the basement outside 007. If you want to see what is available, check there and then email with your name and classroom number. Thank you, Brian Riverside High School The Principal's Desk Good Day Riverside Family! The year is off and running and I am excited for the opportunities to come. Students are busy at work completing beginning of year assessments and filling out forms to get ready for college or post-secondary opportunities. There are several goals we want to focus on this school year- safety being a top priority! Students are encouraged to come to school each day with an open mind and open heart to invite opportunity to resolve issues in a calm and constructive manner. October promises to bring about strong academics as well as great opportunities for school unification and school spirit! I am motivated to attend our Pep Rally, show our pride in school spirit week as well as our other events! If any of our students, staff or families need support, please stop by my office anytime!

"People Don't Plan to Fail, They Fail to Plan" (Quote of a Security Officer) Hello, My name is Mrs. Moore and I'm your Attendance Teacher for the 2023-24 school year. The duty and primary responsibility I have is to work to support you with your attendance goals by bringing awareness to the importance of attending school every day and on time, speaking with you directly about attendance concerns, holding attendance support conferences with yourself and caregiver/parent/guardian, and involving outside agencies if "Moore (Attendance Teacher) and Ferguson's (Attendance Designee) Attendance Corner" Attendance Reward Standards/ The year of Standard Attendance is the most vital part of life for a High School Student. The goal is to become productive members of society, which includes attending school regularly (90% or higher ADA), being on time for school, being on time for ALL classes, and no interruption within your ENTIRE school day. Attendance also means attending to our attitudes towards each other and being respectful to ALL staff members and peers within the Riverside community. With that being said, the attendance department will be recognizing students who hold these character traits monthly during A and B lunches. During the first part of every new month, I will dedicate a day to acknowledge your hard work! ! required. In addition to this, there will also be a quarterly drawing/raffle where ALL students who have "Perfect Attendance" (this includes on time for school, on time for ALL classes, respectful and positive attitude, and NO suspensions, TAC, or disciplinary reports on your record) will have an opportunity to win a $10.00 McDonalds and/or Tim Hortons Gift card! ! ! It is important to mention that the goal is to help you become a positive and productive member of the Riverside Community and our society. The Attendance Department wants you to be successful at attending to "yourself' every day by making healthy and good decisions that work to earn you both recognition and a sense of Riverside Pride

BPS Community Schools Presents... COMING SOON at Riverside Academy Fall Fest TAILGATING, FISHING, GAMES,FACE PAINTING, ARTS & CRAFTS, FITNESS, FUN, FOOD & MORE! October 28th, 2023 Free Breakfast & Lunch 10am-1pm 51 Ontario Street Buffalo, NY 14207 OPeN TO THe community Participants may be subject to security check procedures upon entry SAY YES BUFFALO LA VERDAD CAFE Smok'n Sole food

health.ny.gov/flu NEW YORK Department STATE of Health 2178 Fight Flu at Home and School Influenza (flu), spreads easily and can make people very sick, especially kids, You can help stop flu! Flu symptoms include: Fever or chills, body aches, cough, sore throat, headache, runny or stuffy nose, feeling very tired. Some people, especially children, may have stomach problems and diarrhea. Unlike a cold, the flu comes on very suddenly. Prevent flu! • Flu vaccine is the best protection against the flu. It is recommended every year for everyone 6 months and older. • Get the flu vaccine for you and your children every year! It helps make flu sickness milder or prevents it altogether. • Getting the vaccine early in the fall means you and your children will be protected when flu season starts. • Make sure people close to your children, like babysitters and relatives, are also vaccinated. • The vaccine is especially important for people with certain medical conditions like asthma, diabetes, and heart or lung disease, because the flu can make them even sicker. If your child gets the flu: • Your child will need plenty of rest and lots of fluids. • Keep your child home from school for at least 24 hours after their fever is gone without using fever-control medicine. This helps avoid giving the flu to others. • Talk with your child's health care provider before giving a child åny over-the-counter medicine. • Never give your child or teenager aspirin or any medicine that has aspirin in it. Aspirin can cause serious problems for children and teens. • Young children and those with certain medical conditions, like asthma, diabetes, and heart or lung disease, are at greater risk for getting seriously ill from the flu. If your child gets flu symptoms and is younger than 5 or has a medical condition, call their health care provider and ask about antiviral treatment. If you are worried about your child, call their health care provider. Don't spread flu! Wash hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water aren't handy, use an alcohol-based hand rub. • Cough or sneeze into a tissue or your elbow, not your hands. Put used tissues in the trash. • Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth. That's how germs spread. • Stay away from people who are sick. 06/23