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By: Craig McPherson The focus of this edition of Underclassmen Spotlight will be Robert Mcguire, a member of MTHS's wrestling team.  Originally, Robert became interested in wrestling because he wanted to try a new sport. He previously tried many other sports, but he did not feel passionate about any of them. Wrestling seems to be the sport he has been looking for, as he has been doing it for five years.  When asked about how he trains, Robert says he has two to four practice sessions a week, while exceeding on every other day. However, this is only the training schedule for preparation for the wrestling season. During the wrestling season, he spends three hours every day practicing, excluding match days and Sundays.  Robert would say that the biggest struggle he faces in his career would be his mindset. As he said himself; “Mindset is only half of wrestling, if you don't have a good mindset, you won't win. I have just worked on building my own confidence and abilities to improve my mindset.” According to Mcguire, the varsity members of the wrestling team are allowed special accommodations that the junior varsity members are not, a status he strives to achieve. Although the coaches can be rather strict and hard on the wrestlers, Mcguire has continued to push through to fulfill his goals.  While he may have to face his own struggles, Robert Mcguire is still a rather admirable student. Passionate about wrestling, he is dedicated to his strong regime, truly an underclassman worthy of the spotlight.

If you haven't seen The Sound of Music  yet, you are missing out on a major classic. Released in 1965, the movie tells the true story of the Von Trapp family in Salzburg, Austria, during World War II. The family consists of a strict father and his seven children , but the story really kicks off when a woman named Maria enters their lives. Maria starts out as a nun in an abbey, but she isn’t exactly the best at it. She was known for being incompetent, showing up late, and singing when she wasn't supposed to. Because of these issues, she gets removed from the abbey and sent to the Von Trapp palace to work as a governess. When she arrives, things are intense. The Captain is skeptical of her informal attitude  and runs his house like a military base. He actually whistles to summon his kids—Liesl, Friedrich, Louisa, Kurt, Brigitta, Marta, and Gretl—instead of calling their names. He has strict rules: no playing, no music, and a strict bedtime. Maria, however, is a music lover who wants to show the kids the beauty of song. She takes them to parks every day, teaches them how to sing , and even makes them play clothes out of her old drapes. But Maria’s free spirit clashes hard with the Captain’s strict order. When he returns from a trip to Vienna and catches the children breaking the rules , the tension explodes, leaving the viewer wondering if Maria will be able to stay with the family at all. Credit: IMDB For high schoolers watching this, the romance between 16-year-old Liesl and a boy named Rolf is a huge highlight. Liesl sneaks out to dance and talk with Rolf, finding the comfort in him that she doesn't get from her strict father. It seems like the perfect escape, but as the political climate in Austria changes, their relationship faces some serious, heartbreaking challenges that test Liesl's trust. The film also does a great job showing the realities of World War II. Captain Von Trapp faces a serious moral dilemma regarding the Navy and the impending war. He has to decide between serving a regime he doesn't believe in or protecting his family. This conflict forces the Captain to make a life-altering choice that puts the entire family in danger. Ultimately, The Sound of Music  is a must-watch because it mixes history, romance, and friendship perfectly. It reminds us that everyone needs a place to belong, especially when the environment around you feels unwelcoming. You will have to watch to see if the Von Trapps can find their harmony before it is too late.

Romantic comedies thrive on tension, humor, and emotional payoff, and Anyone But You  delivers all three. The film follows two characters who constantly find themselves in the same space despite their mutual dislike, creating a heartwarming fictional story that explores love, growth, and unexpected connection. Credit: IMDB In the movie, Beatrice, known as Bea, meets Ben in a coffee shop, sparking what initially seems like the start of a promising relationship before their first date goes terribly wrong. Six months later, the two reunite at a destination wedding for mutual friends and must figure out how to coexist without constant conflict. Being forced together for several days leads to feelings neither of them anticipated. Starring Sydney Sweeney and Glen Powell, the film runs for 1 hour and 43 minutes and is rated R for language, sexual content, and mature themes. However, Common Sense Media notes that mature teens ages 15 to 17 may still enjoy the film despite typical R-rated recommendations. The movie features a range of visually striking settings, from Boston, where Bea and Ben first meet, to Sydney, Australia, where the wedding takes place. These locations serve as more than just backdrops; they help frame the unfolding drama while immersing viewers in breathtaking scenery. At its core, the film relies on popular romance tropes such as enemies-to-lovers and fake dating. These elements add suspense, humor, and emotional depth, allowing audiences to laugh while watching relationships evolve and secrets come to light. Like any film, Anyone But You  has both strengths and weaknesses. One notable advantage is its pacing. In under two hours, the movie reveals important details about the protagonists, balances comedic moments, and keeps viewers wondering what will happen next. “I really enjoyed this movie,” says Nina, a Sydney Sweeney fan. “I found it exciting, and it is the perfect length for a movie.” The producers, Will Gluck and Joe Roth, also incorporate Natasha Bedingfield’s hit song “Unwritten,” which appears multiple times throughout the film as Ben’s “serenity song.” In one pivotal scene following a boating accident, Bea sings the song to calm him down, highlighting her growing care for Ben while adding a touch of humor to an otherwise emotional moment. On the other hand, some viewers may find the large number of wedding guests staying together in an Australian Airbnb confusing. Characters including Bea, Ben, Beau, Margaret, Jonathan, Claudia, Halle, Pete, Innie, and Leo each bring their own personalities and backstories, which enrich the plot but can initially feel overwhelming. Credit: Tone Madison “I couldn’t remember who was who,” says Rylan, an average viewer. “I liked Beau, though. He was a funny character.” Ultimately, the film raises the stakes within the rom-com genre by telling the story of two young people who struggle with the reality that they might be perfect for each other. Grossing roughly $220 million worldwide and generating billions of social media tags, Anyone But You  has clearly resonated with audiences. The film is currently available for streaming on platforms including Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, and Fandango, making it an accessible choice for viewers looking for a lighthearted yet engaging watch. References Common Sense Media. “ Anyone But You  – User Reviews (Adult).” IMDb. “ Anyone But You  Reviews.” Tone Madison. “ Anyone But You  Depicts Anyone but the Working Class.”

With the two-year anniversary of The Land Is Inhospitable, and So Are We  and the announcement of an upcoming concert film, fans have once again turned their attention to indie/alternative singer-songwriter Mitski’s seventh studio album. The renewed discussion is well deserved. The Land  stands as one of Mitski’s strongest projects to date, highlighting both her artistic growth and her ability to craft deeply human music. One of the album’s greatest strengths is its production and instrumentation. Sonically rooted in indie folk and country influences, the record avoids being confined to a single genre by weaving in elements of orchestral music, Americana, and rock. The result is a soundscape that feels both expansive and intimate. Credit: Ebru Yildiz “The Land is Inhospitable And So Are We” photoshoot The album features traditional instruments such as guitars, piano, and drums alongside orchestral additions like violins, cellos, bass, and French horns. According to Mitski’s record label, Dead Oceans, the project incorporated a full orchestra arranged and conducted by Drew Erickson, as well as a 17-person choir. Recording with a live band further enhances the album’s warm, raw quality and evokes imagery of the American West and its natural beauty. Equally compelling is Mitski’s masterful songwriting. Throughout the album, she balances poetic lyricism with complex metaphors and emotionally charged storytelling. Even tracks with more straightforward lyrics, such as “I Don’t Like My Mind” and “My Love Mine All Mine,” are filled with vulnerability and intensity. Music journalist Cat Zhang of Pitchfork  describes the songs as “surreal, existential, and fascinating,” noting how Mitski explores the human condition while reflecting on identity, love, and self-perception. These themes anchor the album, giving listeners both something to feel and something to contemplate. Among the standout tracks is “The Deal,” the album’s fifth song. Thematically, it explores the longing to surrender oneself for the sake of relief or connection. Mitski’s lyrics suggest a willingness to accept consequences if it means escaping emotional burden. Instrumentally, the song builds from gentle strings into a swelling outro where the drums intensify and nearly overwhelm her voice, creating an effect that mirrors emotional release. Ultimately, The Land Is Inhospitable, and So Are We  showcases Mitski at her creative peak. By blending natural, folk-inspired production with raw and thoughtful songwriting, she delivers an album that resonates just as strongly today as it did upon its release. As her audience looks ahead, there is growing anticipation for where Mitski will take her artistry next. References Zhang, Cat. “Mitski: The Land Is Inhospitable, and So Are We .” Pitchfork.   Dead Oceans. “ The Land Is Inhospitable, and So Are We .” Official record release information.

By: Adith Bondugula The start of the Winter Sports Season is here. Temperatures are dropping, and the school has settled into the rhythm of the winter months. The gym, locker rooms, and courts across MTHS are filled with excitement again as our student-athletes begin preparing to compete and represent the school in competition. While we're still in the first few weeks of the season, the winter teams have been demonstrating incredible effort and dedication in both practice and scrimmage settings. Coaches and athletes alike are emphasizing the importance of preparation, conditioning, and teamwork as they look forward to competing. The opening weeks of the season have provided the opportunity for most teams to develop some of the necessary ingredients to be successful in the remainder of the season, such as developing chemistry and adjusting game strategies. Athletes from all winter sport programs are sharing the same mindset as they begin the new season. One athlete stated, "We need to work hard every day and improve every day," at practice, while another stated, "Communication and supporting each other both on and off the court will be very important to us being successful this season." Both of these statements demonstrate the dedication and discipline that winter sports require. Moving forward, each team is setting goals to grow and become consistent over the course of the season. While winning and losing records are certainly an element of each program's goals, many teams are also focused on growing throughout the season, competing with confidence, and representing the school with pride. Maintaining good health, remaining focused, and continuing to develop as a unit are the three main priorities that exist among all winter sports programs. As the winter sports games and practices continue to take place, we encourage students to attend and show their support for their classmates. With the winter sports season just getting started, there will be many opportunities for exciting moments, hard work, and a chance for school spirit to flourish.

By: Craig McPherson A 2024 Toyota Camry in a vibrant reservoir blue (Credit : 2024 Toyota Camry Hybrid SE Nightshade Edition - Kelley Blue Book). In the world of automobiles, not many brands are beloved for quite the same reasons as Toyota. The Japanese auto brand is renowned for reliability, durability, and innovation. A great example of these values would be the Camry. Ever since 1983, Toyota has managed to make countless innovations in aspects such as performance and safety through this popular sedan. This is the story of how the Camry was conceived, and how it inspired evolution within the industry for over 40 years.  As mentioned before, the Camry was first introduced in 1983. It had a boxy, hatchback-like shape, which was very popular in the 1980s. This was a contrast to the Camry’s predecessor, the Celica Camry, a sportier, rear-wheel drive sedan, sold in Japan from 1979 to 1983. This first generation would continue to be manufactured until the end of 1986, with three different, four-cylinder, engines available.   The second generation would begin in 1987. The Camry would be given a more sporty design, with a streamlined body and an optional V-6 engine, which replaced the diesel engine in the United States. The new Camry also had a larger trunk, with more space in the interior. In 1988, Toyota would open a production facility in Kentucky to manufacture more Camrys for the American market. Being available as both a sedan and wagon, the Camry could now also have all-wheel drive.  The third generation began in 1992. The first significant change brought by this generation would be the edition of the coupe body style in 1992. However, it was discontinued in 1996, the same year this generation ended. The public was very impressed by the quality of the Camry in this generation, so much so, it made Car and Driver’s 10Best Cars list in 1992 and 1993.  When the fourth generation began in 1997. The work done for the engineering of these newer Camrys would be split between Toyota’s American and Japanese divisions. Even though the cars were made larger than before, they were slightly lighter and more affordable. It was also in 1997 that The Camry became the best selling car in America. In 1999, the Camry would become a coupe again, as the Toyota Camry Solara. For the time, it was considered impressively fast, with a speed of 135 miles per hour. In 2000, the Solara would also be available as a convertible.  The fifth generation lasted from 2002 to 2006. The Camry was made slightly taller, with raised seats and more legroom. It would also gain an in-dash navigation system. The Solara coupe variant was also redesigned in 2004, with the same top speed as the original design. However, the design of new, rear-hinged doors was proven unpopular.  Predictably, the Camrys of the sixth generation, made from 2007 to 2011, were bigger and stronger. However, something unique about this generation would be the introduction of a hybrid variant. The original hybrid Camry, from 2007, had a new V6 engine with 40% more power. It also used Toyota’s Hybrid Synergy Drive, which was originally made for the Prius. This gave it an excellent fuel economy of 40 miles per gallon, comparable to the likes of the Toyota Prius or Honda Civic hybrids released at the same time. In 2010, the Camry hybrid got its own unique grille, front bumper, and fog lights.  Surprisingly, the reception of the seventh generation, from 2012 to 2017, was somewhat lukewarm. The new exterior design was more modern and streamlined, but didn’t stand out from the competition. Also, this was the first generation to only offer automatic transmission, meaning that the vehicle switched gears by its sled. In 2015, the exterior would be given a larger front grille, with sharper corners. It would also have new headlights, and a less sloped-looking body. Changes like these were meant to give it a more sporty, appealing look.  In 2018, the Toyota Camry’s makeover would coincidentally be revealed the same year as that of its biggest rival; the Honda Accord. The handling of this generation was greatly improved due to a lower center of gravity, lighter weight, and a more rigid body. In 2020, the Camry TRD was introduced. The Camry TRD, or Toyota Racing Development, was given firmer suspension and a more racecar-like appearance. However, aspects such as performance, speed, or power are seemingly unchanged from the other variants. It was also around this time when the Camry gained many popular safety features, such as the Pre-Collision Mitigation with Pedestrian Detection, Road Sign Assist, and an Automatic High-Beam system. 2025 marked the beginning of the Camry’s ninth generation. One of the most significant changes would be the overall appearance, with a sleeker look, and slimmer headlights. Another significant change would be how the Camry is now only going to be sold as a hybrid, with an electric torque. This new hybrid also has a fuel economy as high as 53 miles per gallon.  In conclusion, the Toyota Camry has undergone many changes throughout the generations of the auto industry. It has been through this sedan that the company has continued to evolve in their craft, in order to ensure the satisfaction of all customers. As Akio Toyoda, Chairman of the Board of Directors of Toyota, said best; “ When consumers purchase a Toyota, they are not simply purchasing a car, truck or van. They are placing their trust in our company.”

By: Adith Bondugula Winter in New Jersey not only brings cold weather and snowy days, but it also brings lots of opportunities where people can come together, stay active, and have lots of fun in the winter season. There are ice-skating rinks, festivals, as well as events that take place elsewhere, all of which allow students to enjoy their winter without going very far or spending out of their budget. One of the most fun and popular cold-weather activities and sports that is enjoyed all throughout the state of New Jersey is ice skating. A lot of public lessons for ice skating and places where skaters can practice are available in Monroe Township as well. No matter if you have no experience skating on the ice or are an expert, a lot of different types of people enjoy spending time with each other on the ice. Ice skating is a fun way to stay physically active during this time of year when many people spend more time indoors. Whether you are trying it out for the first time with your buddies to learn the basics or are skating with your family, ice skating is a great activity to try during winter.  Another fun winter activity to get involved in could be to check out local winter festivals. Local parks and downtown areas will have winter fairs and light installations during the snowy seasons. Some winter fairs and festivals could be really fun events, and they might give you an opportunity to make new friends since they will give you the chance to get out and have fun. This allows you to take a well-deserved break from all the homework and school to be out in other areas. Apart from festivals, events in the community also play an important role in keeping the community active, especially during times of celebration. This is because one can easily find events such as movie nights, game tournaments, and crafting sessions being held at places like libraries, community centers, and other social areas. Such events give students a chance to learn new things and take plenty of pictures. Students are also able to use the outdoor environment provided all around the community to have fun. Although most outdoor sports cannot be played during cold winter months, people are still able to engage in outdoor activities that are best conducted during the winter months, such as skiing, snowboarding, and ice skating. Such outdoor activities allow students to interact and remain relevant in the world of sports despite the cold. Additionally, there are also walking trails in most parks that people can use to take a peaceful walk or take photos as they appreciate nature during the winter season. Overall, winter at Monroe is not a time of the year to be bored and stay at home. With more events in the community than ever before, festivals, and outdoor activities, students can have a great time during the cold months of winter, even if they are summer lovers. As students, we have a tendency to overlook what is right before our eyes in our community, so let this winter season remind you that you don't have to go far to have a great time.

By: Anastasiya Averyanova  The first fall season has officially ended at the Monroe Township Highschool during the 2025-2026 school year. From all the wins and losses, the falcon athletes had been through it all, leading to more outstanding victories in future seasons. One of the most exciting games was between the Monroe Falcons Varsity Boys Soccer team and St. Joseph’s in the GMC Championship at Piscataway High School fighting for the GMC title! Christopher “FIFO” Duran was named the GMC player of the year, dominating all season, scoring big goals, and elevating everyone around him. His creativity, vision, and relentless work ethic made him the most dangerous player in the conference, and now he’s officially the best of the best. However, FIFO wasn’t the only player that made big commitments. Kaitlyn Brownlie played Division 1 Soccer at Monmouth University, showing off her leadership and immense dedication. There were many other good plays in the first season. In girls soccer, Emma Bruness made a tap in the goal in the three to nothing win against Colonia in the GMC quarterfinal. In girls volleyball, Christina Latash made a great hit from a wonderful set from Mia Manfre, dominating the 3-1 win against North Burlington. The Homecoming game was one of the most memorable games this season, with outstanding performances by the football team, cheer team, dance team, marching band, and color guard.  With all the standout players and highlights, there is still more to come. The teams gave it their all, leading to more successful wins in future seasons.

By: Medha Annam Christmas, A time when  fall colors are exchanged for   blank snow. The blank space waits to be covered in ornaments, lights, and accidental gingerbread crumbs. However, not everyone fills up that space the same way. Christmas is celebrated in various ways around the world, and many nations have their own unique traditions and stories.  Take Austria for example, where Santa isn’t the only one traveling all over the world: Krampus accompanies him too. Krampus, the half-man and half-goat demon, would whip naughty children, and possibly even take them away. Despite that fact, Austria dedicates an entire parade in his honor, where marchers dress up as Krampus and do acrobatic tricks, or just throw their whips at spectators.  On the other hand, Japan celebrates the holiday by enjoying a mouth-watering KFC meal on Christmas Day. The tradition started with Takeshi Okawara, who was the enterprising manager of the 1st KFC in Japan. In 1974, he made the fried chicken party bucket nationwide in Japan, advertising with the slogan “Kentucky is Christmas!” At the time, many Japanese people didn’t relate lots of traditions with Christmas, so it was easy to implement a new one. In India, while many do not celebrate Christmas due to its primarily Hindu population, those who do celebrate normally use banana or mango trees instead of the traditional pine trees we see in the States. People may also use mango leaves to decorate their houses. Southern-Indian Christians also tend to put tiny oil burning clay lamps on top of their roofs. This symbolizes Jesus being the world’s light. Finally, in Mumbai, people put up star lanterns and set up nativity scenes. Next is South Africa, whose people like to celebrate Christmas by picnicking and hosting barbecues due to the warm December weather (which is unheard of in the States). Now, let's go to Finland, where they have rice porridge for Christmas breakfast. But, it’s not just any porridge; in it, there is exactly one almond. Whoever finds the almond in their bowl gets good luck for a year. The U.S. also has its own unique tradition, that maybe you didn’t even know about, where people hide a pickle ornament on the Christmas tree, and the child who finds it gets an extra gift.                                                                                                                                                                    Traditions are an important part of who we are. No matter how you celebrate Christmas, or even if you don’t, I hope you're surrounded by family and friends during this cheerful time! Happy holidays!

By: Anastasiya Averyanova  Although many celebrate the holidays with presents and a big Christmas dinner, some are less fortunate than others. Throughout the month of December, the Monroe Township High School clubs have been putting together holiday drives, service projects, and fundraisers for those in need. Recently, the Red Cross club hosted a blood drive. Aryan Srinivasan, the Red Cross Club President said, “We have saved a bunch of lives with this. 3 lives are saved each time a pint of blood is collected”. They encourage students to support them in the many blood drives to come. The Red Cross club isn’t the only one helping the community. The Girl Up club started hosting a hygiene drive throughout the month of December and January, collecting donations ranging from toiletries to products. To add on, the Unified department had a Holiday T-Shirt Fundraiser. All proceeds went to the Unified Program for clubs, events, and activities. The Unified PAL that sold the most t-shirts received a bagel breakfast as a reward for giving back to the community. Holiday drives, service projects, and fundraisers help people throughout the state receive items they aren't able to afford. With more projects coming up, it never hurts to give back!

By: Adith Bondugula Every year on November 11th countless Americans across the country pause to pay their respects to the many that have been in uniform and whose bravery and sacrifices helped make the USA we see today. One such person is especially known for his actions on the battlefield and is one of the most decorated soldiers in U.S. history. His name is Audie Murphy and he won the Medal of Honor for his heroic actions and selfless morals.  After Japan attacked Hawaii at Pearl Harbor, Audie Murphy wanted to join the military and serve the country. He tried to join the Marines at only 16 years old but did not meet the physical requirements required since he was too short. Despite this, he decided to join the Army due to his love for the country and determination to serve. While serving in the army, Murphy fought in WWII, fighting in areas such as North Africa, Italy, and France. Near the village of Holtzwihr in France in January 1945, the German forces struck Murphy’s unit using tanks and armed infantry. Any regular soldier would run away in panic with such a sudden attack, but instead Murphy decided to stay due to his exceptional courage. Even with injuries like a wound on his leg, Murphy stopped the German advance for about an hour. By using the machine gun he found at the top of an abandoned tank, he killed many enemy soldiers and was able to stall time for his fellow comrades. Even through extreme pain he persisted and never decided to give up on his goal of stopping the enemy. His selfless actions caused a huge shift on the outcome of the battle and saved countless American soldiers. His actions even received major recognition when he was awarded the Medal of Honor, one of the most prestigious awards in the world. After the war, Murphy returned home and decided to try and have a career centered around Hollywood. Although he looked fine in movies, Murphy was struggling with post traumatic stress from the intense memories he had from his heroic day in Holtzwhir, France. Murphy’s incredible story shows that the battle for many veterans doesn't just end when the war finishes, but instead continues for many years even after coming home.  Every Veterans Day, take a couple moments to remember Audie Murphy and the sacrifices he made for the country. His bravery, courage, and heroism inspires many even today and shows that behind every person in a uniform there is a human being that feels hope, fright, loss, and warmth.

By: Craig McPherson This edition of Senior Spotlight is dedicated to Sumer Snyder. One of Sumer’s biggest interests is theatre. She has been performing in the school’s drama club ever since she was a freshman. She is also a member of the International Thespians’ Society, a group of students who have made significant contributions to theatre in the school. Ever since she was little, Sumer loved musical movies. When she saw Wicked on Broadway in third grade, that was when she knew that musical theatre was her passion. The first ever show she was in herself was a fourth grade production of Aladdin. Sumer has been participating in school musicals ever since.  According to Sumer, she and the rest of the Drama Club are very close, supportive friends. This is likely due to how she and her colleagues spend up to six hours a day after school, for every two to three months, working together to prepare for productions. Sumer also has an important role in the club, the Sunshine Chair. It is her responsibility to make sure that everyone is comfortable in the club’s work environment. She also helps the directors to ensure that there are no production issues, and that there is positivity amongst the group. It is important to her that there can be high morale, whenever there is stress or exhaustion. As a member of the International Thespian’s Society, she also helps plan out shows, events, and fundraisers. She also serves as a representative for the future goals and wishes of the Drama Club.  When asked about what motivates her to maintain positivity among her peers, Sumer responded, “One of my biggest motivations to maintain positivity is remembering that you never know what someone is going through. If I’m able to make someone’s day just by staying positive and optimistic, it makes me feel good. I think I look out for others and their own happiness because of the same reasons. I want to try my best to stay on good terms with everyone and avoid any drama or negativity.” A passionate, hard worker, as well as a compassionate, caring friend, Sumer is a truly remarkable falcon. Even though this is her last year here, hopefully her example will continue to impact underclassmen.