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  • September 3Congrats to our Teacher of the Year, Joel Nick, and Staff Member of the Year, Kathleen Banta!

Sydney Bigelow, Editor-in-Chief

Sydney Bigelow is a senior and one of the Editors-in-Chief this year after previously serving as Managing Editor, Opinions Editor, and Copy & Design Chief. Although she enjoys working with all aspects of The Voice and the 9:05 News, she especially enjoys writing Opinion, Editorial, and Sports pieces, along with working on the layout of the newspaper. She also anchors the Sports Update on the 9:05 News each week.

All content by Sydney Bigelow
Devin, DSean, and Lavel -- Devin Chandler, DSean Perry, and Lavel Davis Jr. were killed in a shooting at UVA on Sunday. The three men were on the football team and were active in the classroom and with other organizations.

Three football players killed at the University of Virginia, two more injured from shooting

Sydney Bigelow, Editor-in-Chief
November 16, 2022
Chase for competition -- Senior midfielder Isaac Coello runs for the ball during a game against Hall. Coello was listed as a player to watch for during the CCC-FCIAC Challenge on Saturday.

Farmington soccer hosts conference challenge

Sydney Bigelow, Editor-in-Chief
September 23, 2022
Side by side -- Assistant Superintendent Scott Hurwitz and Principal Russel Crist get ready to watch the Flipping Out for Friends tournament on August 31. Hurwitz and Crist took on new administrative roles this year.

Hurwitz takes on role of Assistant Superintendent, Crist steps up as Principal

Sydney Bigelow, Editor-in-Chief
September 2, 2022
Here I stand -- Senior Jennifer Liao speaks during a Social Justice Week presentation. Liao will deliver a speech as salutatorian during graduation on June 14.

Jennifer Liao named salutatorian to acknowledge academic achievement and dedication

Sydney Bigelow, Managing Editor
June 11, 2022
Speaking in front of you now -- Senior Andy Dong gives advice to middle school students as he guides them through the high school. Dong was named Valedictorian and will deliver a speech in front of his peers during graduation on June 14.

Andy Dong named valedictorian, celebrated for academic success and extracurriculars

Sydney Bigelow, Managing Editor
June 11, 2022
Our ocean -- Sophomore Lila Manton appreciates the ocean and explores a local beach as a Plastic Tides ambassador. Manton is working to spread awareness about how microfibers from clothing cause pollution of rivers and oceans.

Lila Manton takes on environmental conservation, partners with nonprofit to limit microfiber waste

Sydney Bigelow, Managing Editor
April 26, 2022
Poet and I know it-- Senior Kasay Chandlar performs her poem from the senior Poetry class. English teacher Virginia Gillis took her Poetry class to the library to perform their writing in front of the class.

Poetry class delivers performances to express messages

Sydney Bigelow, Managing Editor
February 28, 2022
Leaders in action -- Members of the student athlete council meet to discuss mental health in athletes. The student athlete council is led by Matt Martorelli and Jeff Daddio.

Student athlete council formed to benefit team culture on and off the field

Sydney Bigelow, Managing Editor
February 28, 2022

Voice Up: Antonio Brown’s future in the NFL

Sydney Bigelow and Brendan Kelly
February 28, 2022
Friends through fundraising -- Executive Board members seniors Gabby Gorman (left) and Avery Anderson (right) show off a towel as a prize during a game of Bingo. The Executive Board and advisers have been planning SpiriThon since September.

SpiriThon raises over $15,000 during annual school-year fundraising

Rachel Wolkoff and Sydney Bigelow
February 28, 2022
the factors contributing to the need for caffeinated substances. Teenagers are expected to study for 8 classes so they need to stay up all night to finish all of their assignments. Some teenagers have multiple sports prac- tices a day, needing to fuel their mind and body. Before judging a teenager’s choice to consume excessive amounts of caffeine, consider the lifestyle they are expected to live.

[PHOTO] Student lifestyle leads to teenagers drinking excessive amounts of caffeine

February 28, 2022
Pins and points -- Senior Jason Guglietta faces an opponent on the wrestling mat. The team returned to action after last year’s season was canceled due to the pandemic.

Wrestling returns to the mat after a canceled season

Sydney Bigelow, Managing Editor
February 28, 2022
Light reading — Senior Olivia Rose holds up the latest issue of The Voice as a prop during the play. Rose acted in Gorgeous and The Potman Spoke Sooth.

Drama department returns to the spotlight, students step up to direct

Sydney Bigelow, Managing Editor
December 20, 2021
As good as it gets-- Senior Sonali Patel represents the field hockey team at the All-State game. Athletes recognized as All-State players competed with and against the best players in their class from around the state.

Athletes selected as All-State recognition, compete at the highest level in the state

Sydney Bigelow, Managing Editor
December 20, 2021
River Hawk on the run-- Junior Hannah Sams runs down the field with possession of the ball during the teams game against RHAM high school. Sams and the girls soccer team ended their season after a postseason run in the CIAC tournament playoffs.

River Hawks wrap up fall sports season, look forward to returning next year

Sydney Bigelow, Managing Editor
December 20, 2021
Wings up -- The River Hawk mascot signals a touchdown for the football team. The suit is worn by students who volunteer to attend events and encourage their peers to have school spirit.

River Hawk mascot comes to life, students step up to fill the role

Sydney Bigelow, Managing Editor
December 20, 2021
What fun this is-- Juniors Abby Finn (left) and Grace Ortiz (right) laugh with each other during the winter semi-formal dance. Student council organized the dance for all students to attend.

[PHOTO] Winter semi-formal, student council members plan the first dance in two years

December 20, 2021
Rookie rising to the top -- Patriots quarterback Mac Jones directs the team during their 25 - 0 win against the Atlanta Falcons on November 18. The New England Patriots are the number one seed in the AFC.

Patriots climb to number one seed in the AFC, face rival Bills tomorrow night

Sydney Bigelow, Managing Editor
December 5, 2021
Lights, camera, action-- Evan Foreman sits in ‘The Edge’, the main room used for filming the 9:05 News. At the end of September, Foreman stepped down as the director of Audio Visual programs.

Foreman retires, continues to help produce the 9:05 News

November 6, 2021
Side by side -- Athletic Director Matthew Martorelli (right) poses for a picture with assistant Athletic Director Terri Escajeda (left) in front of the building taking a break from administrative work in the athletic department. Martorelli joined the faculty in August for his first year as Athletic Director.

Matthew Martorelli steps into role of Athletic Director, works with rebranding mascot

November 8, 2021
All out for Pink Out — Sophomore Lila Manton dressed in pink holds up a sign to support the girls soccer team on their annual “Pink Out” on September 24 to raise awareness for breast cancer. Manton was in the student section, named ‘The Flock’, led by the seven super fans.

Spectators return to athletic events, student section becomes ‘The Flock’

November 11, 2021
Laura Butterfield Fast in water and on land — Members of the boys and girls crew team ran in the Rotary 5K race. The race started at the Tunxis Meade Boathouse, the teams’ home base and directed runners through the soccer fields and park at Tunxis.

Runners, volunteers represent community at Rotary 5K race

Sydney Bigelow, Managing Editor
November 10, 2021
Back to business — The River Hawks offense prepares for a play against E.O. Smith. The team traveled to E.O. Smith on Friday September 17 for their second game of the season after missing last season because of the pandemic.

Football returns with competitive programs statewide, River Hawks face rivals

Sydney Bigelow, Managing Editor
November 10, 2021
Playing for a cure — Senior captain Sonali Patel stands in front of the field hockey team, all dressed in pink to support breast cancer awareness. Patel scored one of the two goals in the 2-0 win against Pomperaug.

Field hockey beats Pomperaug during annual ‘Pink Out’ game

Sydney Bigelow, Managing Editor
October 17, 2021
Welcome -- Head field hockey coach Sadie Robinson overlooks the team warmup before leading practice. Robinson joins the River Hawks after eight years as a player and five years as a coach.

Field hockey program welcomes Sadie Robinson to the role of head coach

Sydney Bigelow, Managing Editor
September 28, 2021
Give me five — Senior Delaney Dopp (left) reaches to high-five sophomore Anna Loughman (right) after scoring one of five goals for the River Hawks against E.O. Smith. The team stands at 4 wins and 0 losses.

Field hockey team remains undefeated, no goals scored against the River Hawks

Sydney Bigelow, Managing Editor
September 21, 2021
First day brings together all students, faculty after over a year of separation

First day brings together all students, faculty after over a year of separation

Sydney Bigelow, Managing Editor
August 30, 2021
A disappointing Division decision -- University of Hartford students and athletes march with signs expressing their disapproval of the schools decision to move to the NCAA Division III. The school announced their decision in May 2021 but will not file their intent until January of 2022.

University of Hartford student athletes resist school’s transition to Division III status

Sydney Bigelow, Opinions Editor
June 18, 2021
In the big leagues — The Farmington baseball team lines up in the dug out of Dunkin Donuts Park in Hartford. Farmington beat Avon 9-2 with the support of a student section.

Farmington baseball team meets Avon at Dunkin Donuts Park, welcomes back student fans

Sydney Bigelow, Opinions Editor
June 16, 2021
Published and proud -- Author Khrystyna Stets poses with a copy of her novel, Faded Reality. Stets is a senior enrolled in the custom capstone.

Senior Khrystyna Stets explores opportunities in capstone course, publishes novel Faded Reality

Sydney Bigelow, Opinions Editor
June 14, 2021
Pursuing perfection -- 2021 Boys Golf captain John Guerrera plays his approach to the second green in the 2020 Connecticut Junior Amatuer Championship at the Watertown Country Club. Guerrera has been named an All-Central Connecticut Conference athlete twice during his time on the team.

John Guerrera ‘tees up’ to lead the golf team in 2021 return to play

Sydney Bigelow, Opinions Editor
May 3, 2021
Helping hands -- Members of the boys basketball team line up to cheer on their coaches and teammates complete a 5K run during practice. The run raised money and support for IRIS, an organization that helps refugees.

Girl’s and boy’s basketball raise over $2,000 for SpiriThon through “Free-Throw a Thon”

Sydney Bigelow, Opinions Editor
May 1, 2021
Designing Deskable -- The prototype of Deskable features a variety of potential features such as a tablet holder, cup holder, and extendable legs. Deskable is a company created by Connecticut students in the Junior Achievement Entrepreneurship Academy, including company President senior Lauren Simonian.

Created by student entrepreneurs, Deskable is available for purchase 

Sydney Bigelow, Opinions Editor
April 22, 2021
More macaroni and cheese, please! -- The Pasta Vita macaroni cheese is topped with panko bread crumbs and buffalo chicken. The kitchen’s staff makes a variety of dishes from Italian cuisine and other cultures.

Pasta Vita brings taste of restaurant quality to comfort of home kitchens

Sydney Bigelow, Opinions Editor
April 8, 2021
Together we rise-- Senior Dani Cloud speaks to both in-person and virtual audience members at the fifth annual Social Justice Week, an event led by the Social Justice clubs in the high school. Cloud began the week with a presentation on White Privilege alongside members of the Black Student Union (BSU).

Social Justice Week persists through virtual platform

Sydney Bigelow, Opinions Editor
February 25, 2021
Carving for a cause-- Sophomore Thatcher Gorman (left) and junior Gabby Gorman (right) work on building a Farmington tiki for the Tiki Task Force raffle. Senior Senan Gorman created the Tiki Task Force to raise money for the Jack Phelan Scholarship fund. 

Tiki Task Force created to raise money for Jack Phelan Scholarship fund

Sydney Bigelow, Opinions Editor
February 15, 2021
Staying connected-- Sophomore Sharon Olkovsky (right) and sophomore Sydney Bigelow (left) virtually talk to each other on a Google Meet. Those celebrating Valentine’s Day need to be aware of COVID-19 restrictions.

Being aware of the pandemic while celebrating Valentine’s Day

Sydney Bigelow, Opinions Editor
February 11, 2021
Lies behind the fries-- In 2001, McDonald’s was targeted for not being honest about the animal products in their french fries. Companies need to be honest about the ingredients in their food in order to improve dining experience for customers with dietary restrictions.

Food services need to be conscientious of dietary restrictions

Sydney Bigelow, Opinions Editor
February 10, 2021
Keep your bags to yourself -- Trader Joe’s grocery store in West Hartford, Connecticut has encouraged customers to hold on to their reusable bags until they are at the register. Companies must find ways to limit the waste they produce while also protecting customers health.

[PHOTO] The environmental impact of COVID-19 protocols has gone unnoticed during the pandemic

December 22, 2020
USA pride, school spirit -- Seniors Joey Guglielmo and Ricky Podgorski find a flag to match their red, white, and blue apparel. USA day was celebrated as part of this years spirit week.

[PHOTO] Spirit Week celebrations continue at high school

November 7, 2020
Work hard, play hard -- The goats at Bradley Mountain Farm spend hours at a time climbing the playscape in their pen. The goats milk is used for soap making classes, and the goats can be found doing goat yoga, along with many other activities the farm has to offer.

Local goat farm provides engaging, hands on experiences

December 19, 2020
Surprisingly, yes -- The phrase “money can’t buy happiness” has been used for years, but money can buy happiness in more ways than one might think. Research also shows that people with more money have higher levels of happiness.

Money can buy happiness

Sydney Bigelow, Opinions Editor
December 21, 2020

The Hallmark Channel is a staple for holiday season entertainment

Sydney Bigelow, Opinions Editor
December 20, 2020
Running for the record -- Andrew Van De Mark (middle) competes in the 600 m race during the 2019 - 2020 season. Van De Mark currently holds the school record for the event and earned the title of All-CCC athlete.

Andrew Van De Mark prepares for the upcoming indoor track and field season

Sydney Bigelow, Opinions Editor
December 18, 2020
Team player -- Former Health and Wellness Department Leader Ed Manfredi has stepped into the role of Interim Athletic Director after the passing of Coach Jack Phelan. Manfredi retired as the department leader last year.

Manfredi steps up to role of Interim Athletic Director

Sydney Bigelow, Opinions Editor
November 14, 2020
No need to leave an apple on the desk -- In order to protect the health and safety of students, school’s have created virtual classrooms with online textbooks, assessments, and class meetings. The virtual classroom experience potentially questions the need for a human in the role of a teacher if an online education becomes more permanent.

A virtual classroom is not the same as a physical classroom, never will be

Sydney Bigelow, Opinions Editor
November 9, 2020
Safe for sports -- Field hockey players prepare for a game amidst the COVID-19 pandemic. Many athletes in different programs have opted out of in-person learning, but have continued to participate in sports.

[PHOTO] Students choosing to attend classes remotely should not have the option to participate in athletics

October 18, 2020
Raise your cup -- Nikita Kucherov holds up the Stanley cup as the Tampa Bay Light- ning celebrate their victory against the Dallas Stars. The National Hockey League (NHL) Stanley cup championship took place on September 28.

Tampa Bay Lightning victorious over Dallas Stars in the 2020 Stanley Cup championship

Sydney Bigelow, Opinions Editor
November 8, 2020

Girls soccer team has an impressive start to the 2020 season

Sydney Bigelow, Opinions Editor
October 8, 2020
Educating and educated -- Junior Krishna Jayaram volunteered her time this summer to work with the United Planet organization. Jayaram created lesson plans to teach English to young girls in Romania and educated herself on what it means to be a global citizen.

Junior Krishna Jayaram adapts to complete global citizenship internship during pandemic

Sydney Bigelow, Opinions Editor
September 11, 2020
Only one call away -- Junior Saathvika Diviti speaks with a Farmington senior citizen over the phone. Diviti and other students are able to volunteer and support members of the community during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Career Center provides students with opportunities to give back to community from home

Sydney Bigelow, Copy & Design Chief
May 23, 2020
Happiest place on Earth-- Although Disney™ theme parks are closed due to the Covid-19, fanatics can enjoy the magic of Disney™ right from their couches. A Disney +™ subscription provides an endless amount of content to enjoy.

Disney +™ is great for binge watching, not so great long term

Sydney Bigelow, Copy & Design Chief
May 15, 2020
Ignoring the hate -- TikTok star Addison Rae Easterling poses in the Bahamas in March 2020. Easterling is one of thousands of TikTok users to be body shamed on the app.

TikTok is extremely negative, creates insecurities and tears down people

Sydney Bigelow, Copy & Design Chief
April 29, 2020
Pose for a picture -- (Bottom row left to right) Junior Lily Roy, seniors Lizzie Kot, Anna Mihalek, Gabby Butler, junior Lindsay Smith, freshman Seraphim Walker, and (top row left to right) sophomore Noelle Ciravolo, freshman Kelly Harris, sophomore McKenna Brenwald, juniors Sophia Botalico, Olivia Pare, and freshman Olivia Palewicz pose for a picture after placing sixth at States. The meet took place on February 29 at Jonothan Law High School.

Gymnastics competes in two meets, players and team end postseason

Sydney Bigelow, Copy and Design Chief
March 11, 2020
In charge -- The high school student council takes a group photo at the January 30 meeting. The council is promoting increased transparency through their new website located in the Friday Folder.

Student council passes Public Information Amendment, new website is published to students

Sydney Bigelow, Copy and Design Chief
February 10, 2020
Youth in community-- Middle schoolers reflect on presence of disabled individuals in their community. 95.8% do not frequently see employers with disabilities. For young students with disabilities, lack of disabled workers in their community can lead them to doubt their abilities in a work environment.

[PHOTO]

Lending a hand-- Juniors Taylor Ellef (left) and Jayda Argulles (right) collect donations for the Farmington Police Department Food Drive. The food was delivered to families in Farmington on November 23.

Members of the community explore opportunities to celebrate Thanksgiving

December 2, 2019

[VIDEO] Zumba event

January 10, 2020

Student council advisers share memories of class mentorship

Sydney Bigelow, Opinions Editor
January 2, 2020

[VIDEO] Band “Come to Terms” wins FHS talent show

December 20, 2019
Privilege walk workers-- Sophomores Olivia Heckman (right) and Rachel Wolkoff (left) collaborate before their privilege walk on December 6. The walk was hosted a part of the empowerment project in order to raise awareness of American privilege.

Government and Law students create empowerment projects, educate the community, raise awareness

December 7, 2019
Queen of the ice -- Queen Elsa places her stance and prepares to protect her country. In Frozen II, Elsa builds character and stands up for herself and others.

Character growth in Frozen II promotes female independence

Sydney Bigelow, Copy & Design Chief
December 13, 2019
Thanksgiving celebration brings co-curricular teams together

Thanksgiving celebration brings co-curricular teams together

Sydney Bigelow, Copy & Design Chief
November 29, 2019

Lack of education leads to opioid crisis

Sydney Bigelow, Copy & Design Chief
November 1, 2019

Career Center supports students with college information

Sydney Bigelow, Copy & Design Chief
October 28, 2019
Shot and a score-- Senior Karen Ru swipes with her field hockey stick across the field for the score. The team had a successful regular season and are excited for the future.

Field hockey celebrates Senior Night for ‘20 grads

Sydney Bigelow, Copy & Design Chief
October 27, 2019

Jack Hughes disappoints, not ready for NHL

Sydney Bigelow, Copy & Design Chief
October 19, 2019
Dangerous Bites-- EEE is a disease spread by mosquitoes. It has recently affected many here in the eastern part of the states.

Farmington works to prevent EEE

Sydney Bigelow, Copy & Design Chief
October 1, 2019
Party planners -- (left to right) Student Activities Director Chris Loomis and seniors Executive Secretary Caroline Leary, Executive President Sophie Giuffria, Executive Vice President Internal Sarah Hennig, Executive Treasurer Shrey Sharma, and Executive Vice President External Amanda Rodgrigues meet to discuss the Executive Councils future plans. The group has planned this year’s homecoming dance, which will take place on Saturday, October 26.

Homecoming dance to support high school teacher battling cancer

Sydney Bigelow, Copy and Design Chief
September 26, 2019
Looking ahead-- Senior Sarah Hennig runs the ball down the field in last year’s game against Bristol Eastern. Hennig will be looking ahead in this year’s season, leading the team as one of nine senior captains.

Nine captains, one team: girls soccer faces the 2019 season

Sophia Bottalico and Sydney Bigelow
September 20, 2019
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