AND Magazine spring 2014 by AND Magazine

SPRING 2014 For The Underaged

Editor’s Letter

Follow us on Twitter @ANDMagazinePA AND MAGAZINE PUBLISHER Christine Glover | cglover@jumpstreet.org GRAPHIC DESIGNER Yessenia Matamoros COVER PHOTOGRAPHY Aegis Education Endeavor SENIOR EDITOR Yaasmeen Piper Contributing Writers Sarah Adamou | Jada Baity | Tess Berger Keely Fickau | Cara Glynn | Amanda Pearson Carly Perez | Jillian Procope | Elizabeth Royer Kimberly Shaffer | Briana Spears Contributing Photographers Mariesa Beneventano | Joe Binder | Megan Kosman Savanna Lenker | Lindsey Shuey MISSION STATEMENT 1. To provide opportunities to regional teens to participate in all phases of the magazine publishing process, from writing and editing to graphic design, photography and marketing. Area professionals will mentor the students, providing them with marketable and transferable skills. 2. To provide teens with a magazine that promotes healthy lifestyles and highlights the tremendous opportunities available to them in central Pennsylvania as students and future employees.

Special thanks to Achievement House Cyber Charter School for their US Bee Mascot!

Jump Street 100 North Cameron Street, 2nd Floor Harrisburg, PA 17101 1.717.238.1887 www.jumpstreet.org Executive Director & Founder Robert C. Welsh

The views expressed by the contributors of and™ magazine are not necessarily those of and™ publisher or Jump Street staff. We feel that it is essential for teens to have a place to express their opinions about their world.

717.233.0109 www.benchmarkgroupmedia.com

EDITORS LETTER

Jump Street is a nonprofit community arts organization that is dedicated to developing education and economic opportunities in the arts for all ages. Jump Street uses the arts to provide valuable career education and transferable workforce development skills to young people. Additionally, Jump Street provides arts programs for youth and adults, arts-based community service programs, grants to artists, exhibitions, and technical assistance to artists and arts organizations.

SPRING 2014 ISSUE

A Family Affair By Amanda Pearson Playlist By Yaasmeen Piper & Kelsee Baker Which Cereal are You? Quiz By Carly Perez Gallery

28 | YOUR DOMAIN The Internet is Not Your Diary By Sarah Adamou Senior Blues By Elizabeth Royer

14 03 | YOURSELF Grab Allergies by the Horn This Spring! By Amy Palmer Healthy Eating By Tess Berger

Prom Quiz

Gallery

1-800-656-Hope By Emily Doss

40 | YOUR MONEY

10 | ADVICE @AND

A Teenager’s Guide to Saving Money By Cara Glynn

Jesse Campbell Profile By Keely Fickau

Nail It: Spring 2014 Manicure Madness By Tess Berger

45 | YOUR FUTURE

16 | YOUR COMMUNITY

Graduation By Briana Spears

20 | YOUR TAKE

Bipolar Disorder By Yaasmeen Piper Horoscopes Meet the Staff

Possible NFL Changes By Carly Perez

How to Dress for Less By Amanda Pearson

Apollo Awards By Jillian Procope

59 | YOUR MENTAL HEALTH

42 | YOUR SCORE Gymnastics By Carly Perez

Mini-THON By Cara Glynn

Living While Dying By Christina Colangelo

Identity Theft By Cara Glynn

Naked Palette Review By Jada Baity

Big Read Photo Contest

CONTENTS

Prom By Tess Berger

Tips for Staying Strong

12 | YOUR COUTURE

Selected Poems

Weird Facts Kila’s Korner

Being an LGBTQ Student By Kimberly Shaffer

What Guys Want to Know It’s Okay Not to be Okay By Briana Spears

5 Beautiful Friends By Keely Fickau

31 | YOUR DIVERSION

Teenage Suicide By Keely Fickau

Real Talk

The Revelations of a High School Student By Sarah Carter

The Stranger in the Hospital Bed By Jada Baity

Which Test is Best? By Cara Glynn

47 | YOUR INSPIRATION The Stranger By Christina Colangelo Don’t Go- Part Two By Zakiya Foster

Dr. Who Review By Elizabeth Royer

My Uncle, My Hero By Briana Spears

50 Shades of No By Yaasmeen Piper

Hero Dad By Kimberly Shaffer

School Choice

Artist Profile: Sam White By Yaasmeen Piper

Grab Allergies By The Horn This Spring! Spring is right around the corner but so are spring allergies! According to the National Academy of an Aging Society, allergies are the fifth leading chronic disease for people of all ages. Allergies are caused by an overreaction of the immune system to foreign substances that are eaten, breathed in, injected or touched. Allergies may not be serious by only causing symptoms such as scratchy throat, coughing, sneezing, or itchy eyes. However, allergies can lead to more serious symptoms such as rashes, hives, difficulty breathing, asthma attacks, or in extreme cases, death. Though there is no cure, one must know fact from fake when it comes to treating ones allergies. One of the most important things about allergies is knowing what triggers your allergies. Mrs. Mary Smith, school nurse, suggests to “know your triggers and avoid them” and to “be proactive” and take medicine if you know that you are going to get allergies. According to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America, the most common causes of allergies are tree, grass and weed pollen, mold spores, dust mite and cockroach allergens, and cat, dog and rodent dander. Many people believe one thing like pollen causes their allergies, but it may be something else, or something in addition to pollen. Knowing what causes your allergies is

key to controlling allergies! There are several methods to treating and preventing allergies. The American College of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology (ACAAI) addresses some of the common myths dealing with allergies. One of the most common questions is: Are over the counter decongestant nasal sprays addictive? Technically, they are now. However, “people who overuse them may think they are because they need more and more to get relief from the congestion,” ACAAI explains. It is recommended not to use the decongestant sprays more than three days in a row. Allergists can prescribe a spray with a steroid that is not addictive and more effective. Another common concern is: Do allergy shots take too much time for injection and are they more expensive than medicine? The answer isn’t black and white-- yes or no. It depends on the severity of one’s allergy. If one has severe allergies, the shots may actually save money and improve one’s quality of life. In fact, the shots reduced health care for children by 16 percent. “The shots are similar to a vaccine,” ACAAI explains, “exposing the recipient to a tiny bit of allergen at a time, to build up a tolerance to it.” By using the shots, the symptoms may eventually go away with time. Lastly, many people are concerned

with blood tests: Are they the best way to determine what is causing one’s allergies? The answer is no; skin tests work more effectively. “In skin testing, the skin on the inside of the arms or the back is pricked with a tiny bit of an allergen,” ACAAI says. “If the person is allergic, the site will become red and swollen within 20 minutes and usually clear in an hour or two.” Skin tests are performed by allergists and are safe for children, including infants. Unfortunately, more than one test is required to get the diagnosis, but it will be more accurate than a blood test. At school, students with allergies are encouraged to carry water bottles to help deal with their allergies. Though the nurse’s office doesn’t have any allergy medication like Claritin, students can bring in an unopened box of their allergy medicine along with a note from their parents and it can be kept in the nurse’s office for that student to use. Students are also allowed to rest in the nurse’s office if they don’t feel well. Knowing these facts can save people who suffer from allergies from a lot of trouble and money. Spring is the time of year to go outside and enjoy the weather; not stay inside in fear of allergies! So keep these tips in mind, and enjoy the weather allergy and worry free!

YOURSELF

BY AMY PALMER | LOWER DAUPHIN HIGH SCHOOL

Becoming a healthy eater isn’t the

hard part — sticking with your new diet is the component most people have trouble with. From one healthy eater to another individual working on their diet, here are my top five suggestions and three of my favorite wholesome and hearty recipes that will hopefully launch you on a new path towards healthy eating. These tips should last you not just this spring, but for many healthy and happy years to come.

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Tips and Tricks

•Don’t quit junk food cold turkey. Having a balanced diet means moderating the bad stuff, not deleting it from your life. Instead of eating a Poptart for breakfast and a bowl of ice cream for dessert, trade the Poptart out for a Greek yogurt and a banana, or the ice cream for some frozen grapes (they are delicious and taste like sorbet). Before you can say “fried Twinkie,” you’ll be craving strawberries over strawberry shortcake. • Becoming a healthy eater shouldn’t be all about getting skinnier; it’s about feeling better. Sure, losing some extra fat is an added bonus, but if you really want to lose weight, you need to exercise too. Eating healthy food will give you the energy needed to work out or go running. •Do not count calories! Calories are not a good measure of nutrition. Think of it this way: a glazed donut contains 195 calories, while a one cup serving of avocado has 234 calories. But, an avocado is much better to eat because it has more vitamins, is full of healthy fats, has much less sodium and sugars, and has more protein. So if you want to keep track of what you consume, go for it! But don’t let calories come into play. • Drink plenty of water! Though water is a necessity, many people underestimate just how important it is to your health. H²O is an essential component of your diet; However, the eight glasses a day theory is a bit overrated. Still, it is important that you drink water daily. Think about it: if man can’t survive three

days without it, how can your body work properly if you replace it with soda? Next time, opt for water when you are given the choice between the two. I guarantee that it feels much better washing your meal down with water instead. Eventually, you won’t crave soda at all. • Listen to your elders and eat your fruits and veggies. Not only are they healthy, but they taste delicious (you just have to find the ones you like)! High in fiber, vitamins, and minerals, it’s easy peasy (pun unintended) to incorporate them in your diet. Fruits make a great dessert, plus lots of vegetables are delicious when you dip them in

Healthy Directions: • Preheat oven to 425º F. • Cut top and bottom off of

Butternut Squash Fries hummus (a delicious chickpea-based dip). Check out some of my favorite healthy recipes A healthier alternative to frozen french fries, this recipe is easy to make, plus they almost taste like candy! Yum! Ingredients: • A medium butternut squash • 2 tablespoons coconut oil • 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon (or more to taste) • pinch of cayenne pepper (or more to taste)

squash. Peel the skin off with a vegetable peeler. Then, cut squash in half and clean out the seeds (it’s easiest to use a large spoon for this). • Cut squash into fry-like shapes and place in bowl. • Melt the coconut oil in microwave and add it to the squash, along with the cinnamon and cayenne pepper. • Stir until combined. • Pour contents of bowl onto a cookie sheet. Then, place in the oven for 25 minutes, or until cooked through.

y Eating BY TESS BERGER | CEDAR CLIFF HIGH SCHOOL

Kale is praised all over the health food world for its wide variety of health benefits. When baked with olive oil and salt, it becomes light and crisp with a taste likened to broccoli. However, you can add virtually any seasoning combination to them to create a customized flavor. Ingredients: • 1 head kale • 2 tablespoons olive oil • salt Directions: 1. Preheat oven to 275º F • Thoroughly wash and dry the kale. • Remove the ribs (the tough inner

Quinoa is a glutenfree grain that originated in South American culture. It has been deemed a superfood for its high protein content and other nutritional values. Plus, it has an awesome taste and texture. Try out this super easy and tangy recipe.

Ingredients: • 1 cup quinoa • 2 cups water • 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil • the juice of 2 limes • 2 teaspoons ground cumin • 1 teaspoon salt • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes • 1 1/2 cups halved cherry tomatoes (or chopped tomatoes of any variety) • 1 (15 oz.) can black beans, drained and rinsed • 5 scallions, finely chopped (or chopped yellow onion) • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped • salt & ground black pepper to taste Directions: • Boil quinoa and water in a sauce pan. Reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer until quinoa is tender and water has been ab sorbed, 10 to 15 minutes. Set aside. • Combine olive oil, lime juice, cumin, 1 teaspoon salt, and red pepper flakes in a bowl. • Mix quinoa, black beans, toma toes, and scallions in another bowl. Pour the dressing over the quinoa mixture and toss. Stir in cilantro and add the salt and pepper to your liking. Serve room temperature or chilled.

Quinoa Salad

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Kale Chips

stem) using a knife or some kitchen scissors. • Cut kale into bitesized pieces. • Place on a baking sheet and toss with olive oil and salt. • Bake until crisp, about 10 minutes on each side. They cook quickly so keep an eye on them! • Let cool and store in a plastic bag in a cool, dry place.

To Be or Not To Be: Teen

Suicide Puzzles Community

BY KEELY FICKAU | CASA

YOURSELF

The crescent moon began to rise in the distance from

the meadow where John Conrad laid in the tall grass. Dark clouds scattered the sky like his wandering mind. The sun faded to three different shades of orange hues. Night fall approached. Isolated from the rest of the world, he feels free. John ignored the NO ENTERING sign that stood before the empty construction zone, adjacent to the meadow. He rested his head on his sweatshirt, his big blue eyes staring at the sunset as it began to slowly sink into the horizon. It is the last image John would see. John Conrad often wore a gray beanie hat in the hallways of Hershey High, fitting for his role as the chillest guy in the room. He grew up in Hershey. He and his twin brother, Joe, the closest person to him, shared everything from friends to clothes. I remember John stopping me in the hallway to buy a candy bar I had been selling for an upcoming New York trip. He would yell across the hallway to flag me down for candy. He bought the last raspberry chocolate in my box, a favorite of his. In June 2013, he graduated high school

with the dream of becoming an electrician after he finished his apprenticeship with an electrical company. I saw John for the last time one week before graduation. “John struggled with his depression,” Joe Conrad said. “A couple months before the summer, he stopped taking his anti-depressants because he didn’t like the way that the drug made him feel.” John’s twin, Conrad, is a college freshman at Penn State, still trying to make sense of his brother’s suicide. He sits alone on Friday nights. His thoughts wander to the darkest places of his mind. His brother’s death changed the way he views death. On June 15th, Conrad’s family left for his family reunion in Pittsburgh, about a three hour drive from Hershey. But his brother planned to stay at home and work at Red Robin. He thought it would be a better idea to save his money. John didn’t plan on going to college like his twin brother, and he wrestled with life-changing decisions like the electrician apprenticeship. The rest of the family headed to Pittsburgh for the weekend but on

Sunday morning, bright and early, Conrad received a call from his father asking him, “Did you get in contact with John? Call your brother!” Conrad and his father were at opposite ends of the hotel. “We had to stay calm. I was hoping it wasn’t going to be too serious,” Conrad said. He checked his phone and saw two messages from his brother. The first, a chain message with multiple receivers: “You have no idea how much I love you all.” And the second message was where he stated he was leaving his belongings to his brother Joe. Conrad tried to call and text his brother to no response. His father tried to get in contact with the police. Conrad notified his friends on Facebook about his missing brother. He found on Facebook a post from his brother stating his last words, and a photo on Instagram of a sunset with the caption: “As I become one with nature once more, my only wish is to be cremated and for my ashes to be spread back in the mountains” Conrad tried to stay calm. “Ninetynine percent hoped that he was safe. One percent was the chance that he

24) dies from suicide every two hours and 12 minutes, according to suicide. org. That is about 13 kids in a fullday and 91 kids in a week, 455 kids in a month, 5,460 kids in a year. Those kids fell through the cracks, the people around them missed the signals. Right now, many young people are debating about taking their own lives for all different reasons. They can be anybody, even the chillest guy or prom queen. “I have so much to deal with; being cheated on a bunch of times, failed relationships, being compared to my sisters, not being good enough for my parents, losing friends, poor grades, not being good enough for volleyball and not knowing who I am,” Jane Smith, senior, said. She tried suicide twice, but failed both times. Her parents found her in the bath tub where she overdosed on her depression medication and rushed her to the emergency room to get her stomach pumped out. “I’ve been suffering from depres-

sion affects one out of six people in the world. More than 90 percent of people who die from suicide are depressed, according to National Institute of Mental Health. No matter if you are the shy girl or the football star, suicidal thoughts can cloud anyone’s mind and the pressures and stress of life can overpower decision making. “I feel numb even to this day. I don’t fully understand why he did it. It’s difficult. I need to know why, how, what. I want to understand why he killed himself. I won’t know until I pass on and it’s frustrating. I came to the conclusion that this reality we live in wasn’t for him and people aren’t meant to live long. He was so far beyond that,” Conrad said. “Also if anybody is struggling with emotional issues, please talk to someone. I wish my brother knew he could always talk to anyone if he needed help.”

ashes in North Carolina where John wanted to be laid to rest. Suicide is the third leading cause of death among young people, according to suicide.org. These suicidal thoughts are hidden and deadly to the teenage population who deal with life-changing decisions. On average, a young person (age 15-

sion since freshman year. I have been on tons and tons of pills… nothing has ever worked. You feel just completely worthless,” Smith said. At least 20 percent of teenagers will suffer from depression before they reach adulthood and 80 percent of teenagers have undiagnosed symptoms of depression. Depres-

If you think you or someone you know is suffering from depression talk to a mental health professional or call The Contact Helpline at 1-800932-4616.

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is dead,” Conrad said. The family headed back to Hershey to find a broken-down door, an empty apartment and a missing gun. The family had not expected this behavior from John. As word spread of the missing John Conrad, Sunday through Tuesday, friends and family searched within a fifty-mile radius of the apartment. On Wednesday, his mother and two of his aunts headed out once more time to find John. Conrad’s father took Joe to a restaurant to help clear his mind. They just finished their meal and were about to head out when they received a call from his aunt. “We found him.” What they found was his dead body. His aunt apologized over and over to his twin. “I didn’t feel anything. I was too shocked. My brain shut off and all emotions went numb,” Conrad said. On Saturday, June 22nd, over onehundred and fifty people showed up for John Conrad’s funeral. The family honored his wishes and scattered his

TIPS FOR STAYING

YOURSELF

STRONG

Whether youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re dealing with a breakup, fight with your friends or parents, or simply just unhappy here are some things you can do to stay strong BREATHE Nothing lasts forever. Time heals, so do not jump to any conclusions. TAKE TIME FOR YOURSELF Watch the sun set, go for a quiet walk, or even try out some yoga. This can help calm your mood and give you time to reflect on your problem. TALK TO SOMEONE ABOUT IT It could be a friend, teacher or guidance counselor. Have someone that will actually listen. If you do not want to tell anyone then keep a journal with you. Either way you should have a way to get your feelings out. Holding them in can only make things worse. SLEEP Getting the proper amount of sleep a night can help keep a positive out-

look on the day. OCCUPY YOURSELF Do something that can help take your mind off of things. Try a sport, or exercising. Try going for a walk or run. Staying active is the key to staying strong! BE SOCIAL Keeping in touch with friends can help keep your mind off of things and keep your mood positive. MUSIC Music is always there for you. Playing upbeat music can help reverse those negative feelings. GET HELP If you feel that nothing is working for you and you are not getting better then talk to a professional about it so they can help you get the treatment you need. If you feel you have no one around to talk to there are many hotlines that are there to listen to you. National Suicide Helpline: 1-800273-8255 (1-800-273-TALK)

The Trevor Lifeline: 866-488-7386 National Association of Anorexia Nervosa and Eating Disorders 630-577-1330 Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors (TAPS) 800-959-TAPS (8277) loveisrespect, National Teen Dating Abuse Helpline (866) 331-9474 SPEAK UP 866-SPEAK-UP (7732587) GLBT National Youth Talkline 800-246-PRIDE (7743) National Institute of Mental Health Information Center 866615-6464 For more information please visit http://www.teenhealthandwellness. com/

BY EMILY DOSS | CASA

“You like that don’t you?” Christofer, 19, muttered under his breath as he stole a little girl’s innocence. Ari, nine, fell to the floor when struck with his greedy palm. She lay still, taking notice of her surroundings: a broken TV, a lamp, and a beaten up sofa. Taking advantage of her, he climbed on top of her back. The stench of weed on his breath revolted her, but not as much as what took place. “Why is he doing this?” Ari thought, hot salty tears streaming down her face as she became a victim of sexual assault. Little did she know how much one man could change her life. Not only does sexual assault change you physically but the psychological pain following the event traumatizes, destroying your self-image in the process. According to RAINN (Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network), the victim starts to blame themselves and can develop mental disorders that include depression, PTSD, paranoia, suicidal tendencies, etc. While 88% of victims range in age from 12 to 28, Ari’s experience at nine forced her to grow up quickly. She moved from playing with dolls to fending off an attack and reliving the hellish reality over and over again. Rape isn’t a flimsy matter that affects its victims for a few minutes or days. It affects you for years on end, possibly the rest of your life. “Even ten years later I would have nightmares about it even 20 years,” Jill, another victim of rape, 48, stated. Paranoia set in for Cindy, a victim at the ages of eight to 14, when memories surfaced of a time when men, whom she now loathes, forced her to touch them.

She awoke with a shock, she ran to her bedroom door and shoved a chair against it. Although no harm appeared nearby, she didn’t see it that way. To this day, all three victims have nightmares. “You have to grow from it. Life goes on with or without you,” Cindy said. “I was embarrassed and ashamed,” Jill added. As they told me this, they never made eye contact, preferring to look toward the floorboard or at the lifeless wall. Bringing up such a sensitive subject made them tense. Crying even occurred, especially with Jill. She took a tissue and started blotting her tears. “My self-worth was really low,” she said, her voice a murmur. “I just wanted to stay at home.” Because vulnerability weakens self-esteem, victims act out in different ways. Some self-harm, some develop paranoia or even depression, and some hide away. Jill tried to run from the truth. She went through denial and became more anti-social. This stage is known as the outward adjustment stage, according to Wikipedia’s article titled, “Rape Trauma Syndrome.” Victims appear normal to the human eye but behind closed doors, they live a broken and scared reality. They use anything to get a grasp on reality, and sadly, that can lead to self-destruction. When asked if they went through any traumas afterwards, all three fell silent. Some said they dealt with the pain through drugs and alcohol and others lashed out at those they love. Ari even stated she felt suicidal, which wasn’t an easy thing to hear. Listening to the stories of what they had to endure would break any normal heart. Seeing such beautiful women being treated in a manner that no one deserves is heart wrenching. A counter argument would state, “Well it’s their fault.” Though a disgusting comment, this viewpoint that rape victims provoked an attack perhaps because of what they wore or

did, damages them, confirmed by several victims. Just hearing that may bring them to shove their emotions or even the truth of the event down further leading them to never tell anyone. “It doesn’t matter what you are doing or what you are wearing, no one deserves the pain that this selfish deed will cause,” Ari said. It isn’t the victim’s fault, but the question suggests otherwise. Ari, nine, wore sweatpants. Cindy, eight, wore pajamas. Jill, 19, wore jeans and a T-shirt. Two of the victims experienced an attack in the comfort of their own home. Research indicates the majority of rapes are, in fact, planned, confirmed by the University of Minnesota, Duluth. RAINN stated that only three percent of rapists serve time in prison. That means 97% of rapists still roam the streets. “If I didn’t tell anybody, he would have hurt many other girls,” Ari confirmed. Because of her courage, the man who hurt her currently spends time in prison. For Cindy and Jill, it’s a different story. Jill hasn’t told a single person her rapist’s name- even after decades. “Don’t be like me,” Cindy said. “Tell someone; people are willing to listen. Those guys who hurt me are out there hurting other people.” Sadly she’s correct. If they are acquitted for the crime they have committed, they will keep hurting others until caught. “If my story could be helpful to just one person, it’s worth it,” Jill remarked. “Get help! It’s not your fault. They are greedy and you don’t deserve to be treated that way because you are beautiful,” Ari added. Overcoming such a terrible journey, but wanting to help others, truly shows strength. If you have been a victim of rape, call: National Sexual Assault Hotline: 1-800-656-HOPE.

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1-800-656-HOPE

REAL TALK

Have a question or need advice and want a reply? Email it to ask.andmagazine@gmail.com

“I’ve liked this girl for a while now but lately she’s been ignoring me. What should I do?” -C.W Ask her if everything is okay. If she continues to act this way give her some space. Maybe that’s what she needs

“I’m debating on whether or not I should get back together with my ex or not. My friends tell me it’s a bad idea but I can’t help the way I feel.” -Anonymous I know this sounds corny but write out a pros and cons list. It could help you think clearer. And beware, our feelings can deceive us.

“My boyfriend has been hinting that he wants sex. I know I want him to be my friend but I’m not sure if I’m ready right now…” -Anonymous If you’re questioning it you’re probably not ready. Ask yourself if you’re ready to have a baby and for him to be the father if anything goes wrong. Has he been tested? Make sure you know his status. These are important things to take into consideration aside from your feelings.

“I have a friend who can never stay single longer than a week and it’s really starting to bother me and my other friends.” -E.E Tell your friend about it. Many people can’t stay single for long because they depend on others for their happiness. Start hanging out with your other friends instead to make a point.

WHAT GUYS WANT TO KNOW What’s with the secret language? Saying “nothing” when it’s really something. Or “I’m fine” when we know you’re not?

Are you playing hard to get or are you really not interested in going further?

This is not a “secret language.” You know we’re not fine, but it’s gotten to the point where we do not care anymore. There’s no point in fighting if we will never be on the same page. We don’t do this because we want you to start apologizing and saying you’re wrong because we know you don’t mean it. We simply do it because we’re tired of wasting our breath. BEWARE of the “nothings” and “whatevers” because if they become a common thing it could mean that she’s giving up on you. You don’t want that, do you?

Stop doing all the little things you use to do. If she shows that she cares then she likes you. If she doesn’t, or gets someone else to start doing those little things then..well… Or you could simply just ASK HER.

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How do I know if her friends like me? How do you know if she likes my friends?

If they don’t try to make conversation with you, or don’t care if you’re uncomfortable at a gathering they threw chances are they don’t like you or only see you as a temporary item. Try complimenting them, or helping out with anything they need. Show that you really care for your girlfriend so they can understand you are here to stay. If you see that your girlfriend is uncomfortable around your friends ask her what the problem is and see if you can meet on some common ground. You don’t want to lose your girlfriend, but you also can’t avoid your friends.

How do I know if I’m too clingy? If you text her every five seconds, follow her to every single class, call her right after school, or monitor her every move on social networks chances are you’re a little too clingy. Take a day off. Just let her hang out with her friends for a day or weekend. It’s okay for a text here and there but not too much.

Sometimes we feel like we have to have everything all figured out. Sometimes we feel like we have to be an image of perfection. We come in different shapes, sizes, races, and genders. There are people who are short, tall, skinny, fat, black, white, and blue—well okay maybe not blue but you get the gist. Often we as humans get into the habit of making others uncomfortable in their own skin, causing them to be self-conscious. We all have been guilty of doing this at one point or another, whether it is by calling someone out of their name or simply laughing at the girl with “high water” pants. No? Okay, well maybe it was the girl who fell in the cafeteria and spilled her lunch on her shirt. We may have innocent intentions but making fun of someone else for your own amusement could be the one thing to push that person over the edge. Maybe at the time you did not think anything of it but that person did and it could have really gotten to them. As much as I would like to think people are going to stop making fun of each other, I know it is not going to happen any time soon. The thing is, no one else can be okay with who you are until you are okay with yourself. Everyone falls short in one way or another and rather than pointing out these flaws we should embrace them and work to

improve ourselves. Based on personal experience, I know that sometimes the things that we are faced with cause us to doubt ourselves. Sometimes life throws us a curve ball making it harder for us to know how to deal with these problems. Maybe something really bad happened and instead of dealing with it you ran to other things as an outlet. Yeah, I have been there and honestly I still kind of am. I know from experience how hard it can be to be at your lowest point and want to give up. You feel like it is just too much pressure, like you have your problems and the problems of the world all on your shoulder? Well I am here to say that it is okay not to be okay. Everyone is not perfect and that is okay. We all are faced with different

YOURSELF

BY BRIANA SPEARS | SCI TECH HIGH

obstacles but it is not about what you go through or how you handle it but that you keep going. Be motivated in all things no matter what happens to you and no matter what people think of you. It should not matter how you look because this does not determine who you are. As Dr. King said, “Judge a man not by the color of his skin but by the content of his character.” Between the stereotypes and high expectations, we drive ourselves crazy just to maintain a certain image. It does not matter what you look like, what you are going through or anything else. As long as you are pleased with who you are no one else matters. People will always have their opinions of you but what matters is that you do not allow it to get to you or to change who you are. Always be comfortable with who you are because you are your biggest motivator. No one can do for you what you can do for yourself so it should not matter what others have to say. Be proud of who you are, enjoy life and do what makes you happy. Going through things is all part of life but it does not matter what happens to you because you can always get back up and keep moving forward.

NAKED Palette REVIEW BY JADA BAITY | SUSQUEHANNA TOWNSHIP HIGH SCHOOL

YOUR COUTURE

There are tons of beauty products out there in the world with one goal in mind: to get you to buy them. Not all of these products are necessarily the best bang for your buck. But there are three in particular that you won't regret buying and will hopefully become a staple in your makeup bag. I'm talking about the Naked, Naked 2, and Naked 3 eyeshadow palettes by Urban Decay. Some of you have already heard of them through social media and have managed to snag one of the three off the shelf of your local beauty supplier. But believe it or not, there are some people who have yet to experience these beautiful staple shades being offered by Urban Decay. Let's start off with the Naked (original) palette, the eyeshadows

that took the whole world by storm. Before the Naked original palette, it was hard to find neutral tones all in one place. This palette features 12 warm neutral colors that go from the

lightest shade, Virgin, to the darkest one, Gunmetal with ones such as Sidecar, Half-Baked, and Toasted in between. These colors really cater to people with warm skin tones and are great for everyday wear. The next eyeshadow palette to come out in the Naked series is the Naked 2 palette which also features 12 shades. The lightest being the color Foxy and the darkest being Blackout. The Naked 2 palette offers neutral colors while also leaning towards taupe shades. The shadows have more of a silvery and metallic tint and accommodate to people with cool skin tones. This palette has a very wide range of colors while the Naked original kept to the warm neutrals. These shadows are also great for everyday wear but are definitely on the edgier side. Wearing these shades to a party or even a date would really make a statement. And last but not least to join the Naked family is the Naked 3 palette. A lot of people an-

ticipated these eyeshadow's releases because no one knew what would come next. Everyone was questioning if Urban Decay could come out with something that topped the first two palettes in the Naked series. But they were not disappointed. The Naked 3 palette consisted of gorgeous rose-gold shades that appealed to the girly girl in every woman. While these colors aren't as practical as the ones in the previous Naked palettes, they still keep with the overall theme of simplicity that Urban Decay created. They are simple pink tones that a lot of people can pull off, making them extremely wearable. There are 12 colors in this palette with Strange being the lightest and Blackheart being the darkest. So I bet your next question is: Which one do I get?? Well it's all based on your preference and skin tone. Naked original consists of warm shades that are great for everyday wear. People with a warmer skin

tone should definitely consider these because it flatters them the most. The Naked 2 palette is mostly silver metallic shades that lean towards people with cooler toned skin. These colors are good for wearing when you're going out but you still want to keep it casual. And the Naked 3 palette is really for anyone who likes pinks and rose-golds. The colors in the Naked 3 palette are not for everyone considering not everyone likes pinky shades. But they're really pretty colors and are great to wear in formal settings while still being laid back. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s really all up to you. So next time you make a visit to your local beauty supplier, be sure to check out all of the Naked palettes by Urban Decay. Don't be afraid to swatch a few of the colors on your skin to see which palette suits you best. Good luck.

HOW TO DRESS FOR LESS

BY AMANDA PEARSON | BOILING SPRINGS HIGH SCHOOL

But why do we spend fifty dollars on a pair of jeans from Hollister or American Eagle? We do it for the stitching on the pockets. That’s the only unique thing about their jeans

and they charge you a fortune for them! Don’t forget that you are going to grow out of them, so it’s probably

not worth it in the end. Why should I spend so much money just for a label when I can buy almost the same exact shirt from TJ Maxx, Marshalls, or Ross with a different label for less? We are all high school students with part-time jobs. We don’t make that much money and I’m sure most of us need that money for gas more than we do for a new outfit. You have to compromise! You can still put together almost the same exact cute outfit without name brand tags. I personally believe there is nothing wrong with shopping at places like TJ Maxx. It is inexpensive, they have a wide variety of clothing and other items to choose from, and they even carry many name brands. I know people do not always want to buy their wardrobe from places like that because they feel it may be “beneath them” or for poor people. Some people also think that the clothes they carry there are pre-owned and “used”. I used to feel that way and now I am embarrassed I ever said things like that because it was shallow. I now own many things from TJ Maxx including name brand clothes and purses. My whole closet may not be full of clothes from TJ Maxx or Ross

but I do own a good bit of very nice clothes, purses, and jewelry from those stores. It’s not always about

where something is from or the name on the tag it’s about what looks and feels good on you. No one will know where you got your outfit from or what name is on the tag by looking at you. Even if they did, it should not matter. You can feel beautiful and confident in anything you put on, no matter what name brand it is or where it may be from. An outfit does not make you who you are, determine what crowd you hang out with, who will accept you, or affect the way you should feel when going out or going to school. So next time you want to go shopping for a new outfit but you are tight on money or know that one pair of jeans really are not worth fifty dollars remember it is okay to buy your clothes for a good price from places like TJ Maxx or Ross.

YOUR COUTURE

Everyone has heard of Hollister, American Eagle, Abercrombie & Fitch, Juicy Couture, Coach, Michael Kors, etc. These name brands are great but realistically they are not affordable for the average everyday person. Let’s face it everyone feels more confident wearing expensive clothing, jewelry, or owning a name brand handbag. It feels like an accomplishment knowing you can afford these lavish things. While wearing these expensive brands may make you feel good, it can really hurt your wallet. Everyone wants to own nice things and some people may say it’s materialistic or shallow but it’s in our human nature, especially for girls. I know I personally own a good bit of name brand handbags and clothes. I used to be all about owning the nicest things and spending money but then I realized I can still have really nice things and look good in things for way less money.

NAIL IT: SPRING 2014 MANICURE MADNESS

BY TESS BERGER | CEDAR CLIFF HIGH SCHOOL

Hats and scarves; rings and earrings. Socks and gloves; necklaces and bracelets. But what is

YOUR COUTURE

springy hues. For that perfect minty blue color, try Essie’s Mint Candy Apple ($8.50). Revlon ColorStay’s Buttercup ($5) is the perfect creamy pale yellow shade that you’ve probably never tried before. However, shades of coral will most likely look the most flattering for your skin and make you look way tanner than you actually are. Flip Flop Fantasy by China Glaze ($7.50) is quite possibly the brightest, most stunning the fashion world’s most ignored coral pink nail polish you will find. If accessory? The very canvas that lies you’re into a more muted coral, Tart on the tip of each of your fingers. Deco (Essie, $8.50) is the perfectly And just like a bold necklace can chic shade for your spring mani transform a boring outfit, so can a rebirth. trendy manicure. Without further Though the brights are strong ado, here are the most magnificent contenders in your nail polish manicure trends for Spring 2014. collection, the neutrals cannot be Each spring, we are welcomed by ignored — they are just as stunning the beautiful and vibrant colors of as a bold nail. There are many takes blooming flowers, chirping birds, on the neutral nail, ranging from and the trees getting backCLIFF their HIGH leafy SCHOOL BY CARA GLYNN | CEDAR pink to grey to brown undertones. green lushness. Essie really hits the nail on the head Just like the animals around you, (pun unintended) for the pinky-nude bring your drab mani out of hiberhues. For a sheer finish, try Ballet nation and paint your claws with

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Slippers, one of the polish company’s number one hits. If you tend to the opaque finishes, Fiji is the perfect baby pink polish you’re looking for. The best grey shade? Essie wins yet again, with Chinchilly, a sleek and always cool color. Orly’s Country Club Khaki ($8.50) beats out the other browny nudes. And although some say the color is mushroom-like, it is elegant and will match anything in your wardrobe. Everybody on any beauty blog, in every fashion magazine, and at any nail salon knows that white nails will be an absolute hit this spring and summer. But plain, white nails barely make an impact. How can you change it up? Your pick! Since white goes with everything, feel free to go crazy on the detail. Start it off with Sally Hansen’s White On ($3.20), then have at it. Pick up some of Sally’s nail art pens and get creative. Try stripes, checkers, multi-colored polka dots, or even nail jewels. The choices are as endless as you wish. One thing’s for sure, the metallics dominated the spring runways and there was no shortage of shimmer, sheen, or sparkle. And in colors like copper, silver, and gold, the metals will rock the halls of any high school as well. One of my favorite gold shades is Glitzerland by OPI ($9). But even more stunning than

polish to be. If you’re not a classic chick, here’s a modern interpretation of the french manicure: the half moon. Basically, you’ll be painting a half moon shape at the base of your nail. To create this look, paint your entire nail with the color you want at the base and let it dry. I would start out with a light gray shade like Essie’s Master Plan. Once it has completely set, place one of the guide strips mentioned earlier where you want the moon to start (usually one-third up from the base). Apply two coats of this shade on the top two-thirds. I’d top the gray off with Lilacism, a light purple shade from the same esteemed nail polish line. Remove the strip immediately and finish your mani with top coat. If you don’t have the manicure strips handy, you can also use a band-aid to achieve the same end result. Try the same method with any other shape, like triangles or zigzags. New York Fashion Week’s Spring 2014 runway shows displayed some outright crazy nail art. The more colorful, the better, right? Your nails are a blank piece of paper just waiting to be filled with crazy colors, textures, prints, and more! If you’re inspired by a work of art, a piece of clothing, a beautiful flower in your backyard, or really anything surrounding you, try to recreate it on your nails. The

best thing about crazy nail art is if you mess up, you can cover it up creatively. Some designs are pretty easy to create, while others can get complicated and messy! Graffiti nail art is actually really simple, but looks like you’ve spent hours working on. Start off with a dark lacquer for your first coat. Then, once it has dried, add the detail. Taking a silver polish, wipe off most of the excess polish on the side of the bottle. Add a few random strokes to each nail. Once that has somewhat dried, go in with a gold shade and do the same thing. Add a top coat and you’re all done! It’s also very easy to add studs and rhinestones on your nails. Once your primary coat has dried, pick up the rhinestone and add some base coat on. Stick it on the nail gently and you’re all done! If nail art is just too complex for your liking, nearly every nail polish brand has easy-to-apply nail art strips. From Sally Hansen to Revlon, they usually come in packs of 16 with different shapes and sizes to fit each and every nail. Plus, there is no mess to clean up afterwards. So this spring, forget that expensive purse you’ve had your eye on, and splurge on something a little more worthwhile. Because if there’s one accessory to invest in this year, it is certainly nail polish.

YOUR COUTURE

gold nail polish has to be rose gold; it is classy and fabulous. Butter London’s Champers (British slang for champagne) is one of the best on the market. And though it comes in at a hefty $15, I think it’s worth it for all the use you’ll get out of it. Revlon’s Silver Dollar ($5) is cheap, amazing, and looks as if you just painted your nails with liquid silver. When it comes to metallics, you can either paint your entire nail an opaque polish, or you can choose any base color and top it off with glitter polish, a looser formula designed to be layered with other shades. To prevent a lifeless, monochromatic nail disaster from occurring, add some glitter on an accent nail, on the tip or base of your nail, or apply it to every nail in an ombre effect. Milani Cosmetics’ Jewel FX line features a chunky gold glitter topcoat perfect for this look. Are you a fan of the classic french manicure, but you want to add some flare? Light pink base and bright white tip, be gone! Your french mani will become so much more chic when you find more unique color combinations (hint: they’re endless!). This spring, peach will be spotted all over the fashion world. So why not incorporate it in your manicure as well? Start off with two coats of Sally Hansen’s Peach of Cake, letting it dry completely. Then, take a gold polish and swipe it on the tip of your nail, using the nail’s shape as a guide. If you don’t have the steadiest hand like me, most beauty supply stores sell french manicure guide strips. Simply place the strip directly below the area in which you’d like the gold

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BIG READ PHO As part of this year’s Big Read, Jump Street is hosting events based on the poetry of Robinson Jeffers. One of these events was a photography workshop held in the fall. All ages were invited to Jump Street’s photography workshop taught by Ali Waxman on a beautiful Saturday morning in October. After receiving basic instructions, participants explored Fort Hunter Park and took photos. Then, they were asked to spend the next week using what they learned to take more photos and to relate the photos to the poetry of Robinson Jeffers. These photos were part of an online photography contest open to the public for voting. These photos are the top three photos from the contest.

YOUR COMMUNITY

1st place winner, “On the Fence” By Mylah Martin

OTO CONTEST 2nd place winner, “At the Dimming of the Day by Angela Dicks”

YOUR COMMUNITY

3rd place winner, “Transcend” by Max Uleau

YOUR COMMUNITY

CEDAR CLIFF HIGH SCHOOL’S FIRST EVER MINI THON RAISES NEARLY $60,000

HAVE YOU EVER WONDERED WHAT STAYING ON YOUR FEET FOR A 12 HOUR DANCE MARATHON FEELS LIKE? MY SCHOOL, CEDAR CLIFF HIGH SCHOOL DID JUST THAT ON FEBRUARY 15-16TH THIS YEAR WHEN WE HELD OUR FIRST EVER MINI THON. ALL PROCEEDS FROM THE NIGHT AND MONTHS OF PLANNING WOULD BENEFIT THE FOUR DIAMONDS FUND, AN ORGANIZATION IN PARTNERSHIP WITH PENN STATE HERSHEY CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL IN AN EFFORT TO END PEDIATRIC CANCER. THE FOUR DIAMONDS FUND IS UNIQUE IN THAT THE MONEY DOES NOT SOLELY GO TOWARDS INTENSIVE CANCER RESEARCH, BUT IT ALSO GOES STRAIGHT TO THE AFFECTED FAMILIES, HELPING THEM WITH EVERYTHING FROM SKYROCKETING MEDICAL BILLS TO TRANSPORTATION AND GAS MONEY IN ORDER TO TRAVEL FROM APPOINTMENT TO APPOINTMENT. THE ORGANIZATION’S MAIN FOCUS IS TO MAKE SURE EACH AND EVERY FAMILY DOES NOT HAVE TO WORRY ABOUT ANYTHING BUT MAKING SURE THAT THEIR CHILD IS GETTING BETTER. A FEW STUDENTS AND I WERE INSPIRED TO MIMIC PENN STATE’S LARGE PHILANTHROPY THON (A 46 HOUR DANCE MARATHON) AND, LIKE MANY OTHER SCHOOLS IN THE AREA, ORGANIZE THE EVENT ON A MUCH SMALLER SCALE. WE WERE APPROACHED BY A FOUR DIAMONDS FATHER, MIKE, AND ONE OF OUR GYM TEACHERS WHO ARE VERY PASSIONATE AND HOPED THAT WE COULD MAKE THIS A REALITY AT OUR SCHOOL. WITH THIS BEING CEDAR CLIFF’S FIRST EVER MINI THON, THE INTENSE PLANNING SEEMED LIKE A VERY DAUNTING TASK. HOWEVER, WITH OUR OVERALL COMMITTEE

BY CARA GLYNN | CEDAR CLIFF HIGH SCHOOL

HEADS, BRETT WHALEN AND ELLEN SAVASTIO, AND MANY HELPING HANDS FROM FELLOW STUDENTS, THE GOAL DIDN’T SEEM TOO FAR OUT OF REACH. EVEN THOUGH THIS WAS OUR FIRST MINI THON, WE KNEW THAT WITH THE DEDICATION FROM OUR COMMITTEE AND A PASSION FOR THESE KIDS, WE COULD REACH OUR GOAL OF $50,000. OUR FUNDRAISING EFFORTS BEGAN RIGHT AFTER OUR FIRST MEETING, BY CANNING AT FOOTBALL GAMES, CHRISTMAS CAROLING AND GETTING CORPORATE SPONSORSHIPS FROM BUSINESSES IN OUR COMMUNITY, AMONG MANY OTHER EFFORTS TO RAISE AS MUCH MONEY AS POSSIBLE. THIS WAS A YEARLONG PROCESS! IT WAS SO REWARDING TO BECOME INVESTED IN A CAUSE THAT I FELT SO STRONGLY FOR. AS THE MONTHS FLEW BY, IT WAS TIME TO BEGIN PLANNING OUR NIGHT-LONG EVENT. AT FIRST WE WERE DISCOURAGED, AND WERE AFRAID THAT WE WOULD NOT GET A LARGE TURNOUT, BUT AS THE WEEKS WENT BY, MANY STUDENTS, INCLUDING MYSELF, IN TYPICAL “TEENAGE FASHION” BOUGHT OUR TICKETS AT THE LAST MINUTE. ALTHOUGH PENN STATE’S THON IS TRADITIONALLY ALMOST ALL DANCING, WE, LIKE OTHER MINI THON’S IN THE AREA, FELT THAT SIMPLY DANCING WOULD NOT KEEP THE ATTENTION SPAN OF HIGH SCHOOLERS FOR 12 HOURS! OUR EVENT CONSISTED OF INTENSE VOLLEYBALL AND DODGE BALL TOURNAMENTS, A GIANT GAME OF TWISTER, A GLOW IN THE DARK “RAVE” HOUR AND THE CROWD FAVORITE, HIGH ENERGY ZUMBA AT 3 AM! WHEN A TICKET WAS PURCHASED, STUDENTS WERE REQUIRED TO CREATE A TEAM WITH OTHER FRIENDS. DURING THE NIGHT, EACH TEAM WOULD ATTEMPT TO EARN AS MANY POINTS AS POSSIBLE IN HOPES OF WINNING THE BIG PRIZE IN THE MORNING. TEAMS COULD EARN POINTS BY COMPET-

ING IN SPORTING EVENTS, MAKING CARDS TO SEND TO THE KIDS IN THE HOSPITAL, AND EVEN TAKING PART IN A HOT DOG EATING CONTEST! STUDENTS COULD ALSO ENJOY SEEMINGLY ENDLESS TACO BELL, MAPLE DONUTS AND GATORADE; THANKS TO THE GENEROUS DONATIONS OF LOCAL BUSINESSES… TALK ABOUT A TEENAGER’S DREAM! MUSIC WAS BLARING ALL NIGHT LONG, HOPING TO KEEP STUDENTS AWAKE AND EXCITED ALL 12 HOURS. STUDENT DJ’S FROM RECOIL PRODUCTIONS AND SLM ENTERTAINMENT PROVIDED A GREAT SET FOR DANCING AND STAYING ON OUR FEET! ALTHOUGH IT WAS TOUGH TO STAND FOR TWELVE HOURS, THAT MOMENTARY, MINISCULE DISCOMFORT SEEMS IRRELEVANT WHEN COMPARED TO WHAT COUNTLESS CHILDREN HAVE TO GO THROUGH ON A DAILY BASIS. THIS “LOCK IN” UNITED AND ENERGIZED OUR SCHOOL FOR A WORTHY CAUSE. WE HOPE THAT OUR EVENT, IN THE SMALLEST WAY POSSIBLE, ACTED AS A SIGN OF HOPE FOR THE STRONG FOUR DIAMONDS FAMILIES, AS THEY SEE THAT SO MANY STUDENTS STOOD UP AND DANCED. TO ME, THE GREATEST FEELING, WAS STANDING UP ON THE STAGE IN THE GYM WITH MY FELLOW COMMITTEE MEMBERS, PROUDLY HOLDING UP THE NUMBERS, REVEALING THAT TOGETHER AS A SCHOOL, WE WERE ABLE TO RAISE $58, 596.82 FOR THE KIDS...EXCEEDING OUR BEGINNING GOAL! AS THE FOUR DIAMONDS FATHER MIKE STATED AT OUR FIRST MEETING, SEEING ALL OF THE ENERGY AND PASSION IN THE ROOM AT THE END OF A THON OR MINI THON IS LIKE PURE MAGIC. HE WAS RIGHT. I WISH EVERYONE COULD EXPERIENCE THAT HOPE AND MAGIC, UNTIL ONE DAY CANCER IS GONE FOR GOOD. UNTIL THEN WE WILL CONTINUE TO “DANCE” FOR THE KIDS!

2014 APOLLO AWARDS MUSICAL SEASON BY JILLIAN PROCOPE | SUSQUEHANNA TOWNSHIP HIGH SCHOOL

THE APOLLO AWARDS RELEASED THE OFFICIAL LIST OF SCHOOL THROUGHOUT PENNSYLVANIA WHO WILL BE CONSIDERED FOR AWARD NOMINATIONS IN MAY. THE CATEGORIES THAT THE APOLLO JUDGES WILL BE CONSIDERING FOR ARE OUTSTANDING SUPPORTING ACTOR/ACTRESS IN A MUSICAL, OUTSTANDING LEAD ACTOR/ACTRESS IN A MUSICAL, OUTSTANDING PRODUCTION OF A MUSICAL, OUTSTANDING STUDENT ORCHESTRA, OUTSTANDING DANCE NUMBER IN A MUSICAL, AND THE SPIRIT OF THEATRE AWARD. THIS YEAR, THERE WAS AN ABUNDANCE OF WONDERFUL MUSICALS THAT PERFORMED ALL ACROSS THE REGION ALONG WITH A WIDE ARRAY OF TOE TAPPING AND MOVING TUNES FOR THE AUDIENCES TO ENJOY. IT SEEMS THAT MOST SCHOOLS HAVE RETURNED TO THE CLASSIC MUSICALS. HELLO, DOLLY!, ONCE UPON A MATTRESS, GODSPELL, AND THE WIZARD OF OZ. NOT TO BE COUNTED OUT, THE HIGH SCHOOLS IN THE AREA THAT CHOSE A MORE MODERN APPROACH TO THIS YEAR’S SEASON PULLED OUT ALL THE STOPS WHEN THEY PERFORMED SWEENEY TODD, AND SHREK THE MUSICAL, JUST TO NAME A COUPLE. THE APOLLO AWARDS NOMINATIONS ARE ANNOUNCED IN EARLY MAY, SO DON’T MISS THE CHANCE TO SEE A POTENTIAL WINNER! HERE ARE THE MUSICALS THAT WILL BE UP FOR APOLLO CONSIDERATION THIS YEAR. CEDAR CREST HIGH SCHOOL - HOW TO SUCCEED IN BUSINESS WITHOUT REALLY TRYING ELIZABETHTOWN AREA HIGH SCHOOL - HOW TO SUCCEED IN BUSINESS WITHOUT REALLY TRYING HERSHEY HIGH SCHOOL - ONCE UPON A MATTRESS SUSQUEHANNA TOWNSHIP HIGH SCHOOL - SHREK BIG SPRING HIGH SCHOOL - BEAUTY AND THE BEAST HARRISBURG CHRISTIAN SCHOOL - THE WIZARD OF OZ LOWER DAUPHIN HIGH SCHOOL - SINGIN’ IN THE RAIN RED LAND HIGH SCHOOL - HELLO, DOLLY! WEST PERRY HIGH SCHOOL - GODSPELL BOILING SPRINGS HIGH SCHOOL - DEAR WORLD CAMP HILL HIGH SCHOOL - SWEENEY TODD WEST SHORE CHRISTIAN ACADEMY - THE SECRET GARDEN HARRISBURG ACADEMY - A FUNNY THING HAPPENED ON THE WAY TO THE FORUM ANNVILLE-CLEONA HIGH SCHOOL - NO, NO NANETTE SUSQUENITA HIGH SCHOOL - SEVEN BRIDES FOR SEVEN

BROTHERS PALMYRA AREA HIGH SCHOOL - SEUSSICAL, THE MUSICAL CENTRAL DAUPHIN EAST HIGH SCHOOL - PIPPIN BISHOP MCDEVITT HIGH SCHOOL SEUSSICAL, THE MUSICAL ENCORE! HOME SCHOOL PRODUCTIONS - THE WIZARD OF OZ MOUNT CALVARY CHRISTIAN SCHOOL - LITTLE WOMEN THE APOLLO AWARDS ARE HELD ANNUALLY AT THE HERSHEY THEATRE IN HERSHEY, PENNSYLVANIA. THE 2014 AWARDS WILL BE HELD ON SUNDAY, MAY 18TH, 2014 AT 7PM. TO FIND OUT MORE OR TO PURCHASE TICKETS VISIT HERSHEYTHEATRE. COM.

YOUR COMMUNITY

AS OF FEBRUARY 12,

BY ELIZABETH ROYER | MECHANICSBURG AREA HIGH SCHOOL

Warning: Mild Spoilers Ahead!

YOUR TAKE

There are only two kinds of people in the world: people who like sci-fi and people who are heartless monsters. (I’m kidding! Except not really). I’m not a heartless monster, but I have to admit that I feel conflicted about the most popular and longestrunning SF show ever: Dr. Who. If you’re unfamiliar with the story, it involves an enigmatic time-traveler and his string of “companions” who travel around the universe fixing problems. In the next few moments, I will endeavor to explain my complicated feelings surrounding this gentlemen Time Lord. Okay, here’s what I like. First, the 21st century reincarnation of Dr. Who is a shape-shifting show. You never know what you’re going to get from one episode to another. It switches from sci-fi, fantasy, detec-

tive story, swashbuckler, slapstick, and romance. Some people hate that, but it’s exciting to me. At the same time, it has a distinct flavor. It’s always charming, generally lighthearted, and doesn’t stray too far from its campy sci-fi roots. I appreciate the gentle romance and the hint of tragedy that makes the Dr. more human. However, there’s one not-socharming piece to the show that I can’t ignore. I understand that the decision to cast a string of young, at-

tractive doctors was shrewd marketing on part of the creators (I won’t say it didn’t work). But if you think about it...the Dr. is an alien. And he has an equal chance of reincarnating in any human shape and form, right? So what are the chances that he would transform into a white, male, English gentleman twelve times in a row? I just don’t buy it. I have a hard time enjoying a show if I’m too busy thinking, “really? Another one?” I’m a fan of artistic license, but when that license is employed to keep minorities from getting on screen? Not so great. So in conclusion, I think everyone should watch at least one episode, and then everyone should write to the creators and tell them to hire a non-Caucasian already, because it’s 2014 and he’s an alien for goodness sake.

50 Shades of No BY YAASMEEN PIPER | CASA

“What does that mean?” I whisper “It means I want you to willingly surrender yourself to me, in all things.” One of the most talked about novels, “50 Shades of Grey”, tries to tell a story of modernized BDSM. According to PsychologyToday.com, BDSM is a relationship between a Dominant and Submissive. The Submissive is given a set of rules and if not followed properly they will be punished sexually, usually involving bondage or some type of restriction. However, I find the relationship between the main characters Anastasia Steele and Christian Grey abusive, both mentally and physically. Many times Ana cried about Christian’s controlling nature, but her tears quickly vanished as the story lead into another sex scene. “The sex scenes were boring,” says Dany Nagle, a creative writing major at Capital Area School for the Arts. “Repetitive, poorly written, not sexy in the least, and did not portray BDSM correctly at all.”

As I continued to read, it seems sex is all the characters want. Christian’s desire for sex overshadowed true ambition (if either character truly had any designs on anything beyond their bodies). The author, E.L James, created flat characters. Ana Steele is portrayed as a boring, gullible young woman who possessed no personality. Not to mention she spewed the same dialogue as a thirteen-year-old girl (“OMG, he’s so hot!”). Christian Grey is controlling, emotionally unstable, and just downright screwed up. “The book is also pretty sexist,” says Nagle, ”with Ana judging every other woman in the series on her looks and generally not acting like most women do. She’s portrayed as weak, needy, rude, and petty, and she doesn’t get much done.” Christian is shown as the “man in charge.” He dominates Ana’s life, controlling everything down to her eating habits. For a novel that is targeted toward women, it portrays them as weak individuals “I once sat beside a woman on a plane who wore a business suit,” says Ann Stewart, creative writing teacher at Capital Area School for the Arts, and author of

Twice a Child, “and prominently displayed a cross (crucifix) on a gold chain while she shielded her Kindle from my gaze. But I peeked and saw that she had been reading [‘50 Shades of Grey’]!” It’s sad that this book has trickled down to teenagers. Young girls should not equate sex with abuse, nor submission as comprising a good relationship. The movie version of the novel series plans to drop Valentine’s Day, 2015. Originally, Charlie Hunnam won the role of Christian Grey, but he dropped out shortly after receiving it. Jamie Dornan replaces Hunnam as the lead along with Dakota Johnson as Anastasia Steele. I am unsure how they will transform this novel into a film. The book is literally all sex with a bit of dialogue. “I’m going to go out on a limb and say it will most likely bomb,” says Stewart. “Then again, never underestimate the power of sex.”

YOUR TAKE

“I’m a Dominant.” His eyes are a scorching gray, intense.

& Its Importance to Me BY ANONYMOUS

YOUR TAKE

Have you ever been so beaten up and tired of going somewhere because you know that the people there are nasty to you and make you feel so unwelcome? I have and that is why School Choice is such an important aspect to me! I was bullied, threatened and depressed, with failing grades, barely any friends and suicidal thoughts pressing me everywhere I went. I knew it was time to make a change and that’s when I decided to follow in my sister’s steps and start going to Achievement House Cyber Charter School. Achievement House has gotten me out of all the mishap that I had gotten myself into while in a public school and has showed me that there are teachers and other students that care. The teachers in my public school never cared about us or our progress. They cared about their paycheck and their paycheck only. I have

never felt so welcome, loved and appreciated at a school the way I do at Achievement House. With everything life throws at me, Achievement House has the

ability to give me what I need in order to succeed with all of the curve balls I am thrown. Being a student at Achievement House means being able to do work from anywhere I want. I

to no one on one time with my teachers, and I have a better set time frame for getting my school work handed in on time. I have access to my teacher’s twenty four-seven, I have their work

could go on a vacation to Hawaii and still be able to do my school work as long as I have internet access. You can do your work at any time of the day, so if you work from seven am till five pm or even later you can get on and log in to complete your assignments even if it is eleven pm. No matter where or what time of the day it is you can do your work. I love the fact that I can do this because I have recently started to work with my mom and then I come home to make dinner for my family and sometimes can’t log in to school until nine pm or later. There are no more set times, getting little

numbers, cell phone numbers, and email accounts. One way or another at any time of the day, I can get a hold of them no matter what. It may take some time for them to get back to me but it’s usually right away. With all of this being said I am sure you already see why school choice is important to me! I am a better student, who is now happy with a ton of friends and great grades because I get the chance to be given exactly what I need to succeed in school. While not worrying about all the negative aspects of what I was getting at public school.

A Family Affair

can hang out with, who they want, they can go to parties, they can date who they want, they don't have to tell their parents exactly where they are going and who they are going with. Their parents don’t want to play twenty questions with them. Girls on the other hand, have to be home at a certain time, our parents have to know who we are with and where we are. We rarely get to go to parties, we cannot date who we want. Our parents have to meet the person and approve before we can go out with them. If we want to go out at all,

our parents want to play twenty questions with us. It is not like this in every household but for many this is how it works, why? With boys the saying is and always has been “boys will be boys.” History shows society that women had no rights or freedom and some people feel that it should still be that way. Women were just given the right to vote in 1920 after women fought for a long time for equality. Society has taught us from the beginning that boys can handle themselves in any situation and that when they do something stupid it’s just boys being boys. We are expected to think that there is nothing wrong with that, but if that’s the saying for boys why can’t that also be the saying for girls? It should be “teenagers will be teenagers.” No matter what gender you are if you're gonna screw up you're gonna screw up. Many girls even have an age that they have to wait to start dating. In my experience,

this happens because parents don’t want their daughter getting pregnant. When a teenager gets pregnant all you hear is, “What a slut, she’s pregnant and she is only 16!” You never hear, “That guy is a slut for getting that girl pregnant!” It takes two people to do that. It is not always the girls’ fault but girls get blamed because we are held to a higher expectation in society. If parents have all these rules and restrictions for their daughters, our automatic instinct is to lie and sneak around and that is when bad situations occur. If a girl is at a party and it gets busted she can’t call her parents to come get her because she lied about where she was going. Then there is the possibility of her driving drunk or getting a ride from someone else who is because she is too afraid to call her parents. She doesn’t want them find out she lied and get into trouble and have even MORE restrictions. I don’t think we should be able to do whatever we want, but I do think that parents should realize their sons and daughters should be treated equally in every aspect. Strict parents create rebellious kids. If I were a parent, I would rather know where my child actually is even if I do not necessarily like it than have them lie to me and something worse possibly happen to them.

YOUR TAKE

BY AMANDA PEARSON | BOILING SPRINGS HIGH SCHOOL

Ever notice how your brother or sister is treated differently than you? Whether you are the older or younger sibling sometimes it does not matter. Boys get more freedom than girls. There is no excuse or rebuttal. It’s just how it is, how it always has been, and how it always will be. Boys are allowed out later, they

Playlist

CEREAL QUIZ Which Cereal are YOU?

ALLERY

BY DARHIUS COTTA | ACHIEVEMENT HOUSE CYBER CHARTER SCHOOL

BY EMILY KENISTON | PERRY COUNCIL ON THE ARTS 2014 YOUTH ART DAY BEST-IN-SHOW AWARD

BY SAMANTHA BRAYTON | BIG SPRING HIGH

GALLERY

BY MIKE NEASE | CENTRAL DAUPHIN HIGH SCHOOL

GALLERY

“INDIGENOUS” BY EMILY KENISTON | PERRY COUNTY COUNCIL ON THE ARTS YOUTH ART DAY BEST IN SHOW WINNER

BY ISAIAH MURPHY | PHASE 4

GALLERY

BY ALDO ACOSTA | ACHIEVEMENT HOUSE CYBER CHARTER SCHOOL

The Internet is Not Your Diary!

YOUR DOMAIN

Cyber Safety is something that many people don’t take seriously. But, it’s starting to become a major issue. We need to start paying more attention to the things we post and the people we allow to view our page. In fact, 65 percent of online sex offenders use social networking sites to gain home and school information on their victim. Just simple information such as age, date of birth, likes and dislikes can be used by predators to find you. Have you ever actually taken a look at how many people can view your profile? I hadn’t and believe me when I say I was surprised to find out … Your information is being shared with

third parties Facebook ads may contain malware "Liking" certain pages on Facebook, can sometimes allow those pages to see more of your personal information. Some admissions departments have admitted to going as far as to having "false pages" or "friending" applicants using fake profiles to gain access to information. When websites such as Facebook and MySpace were created, it was so that people could share thoughts and ideas with like-minded people and keep in touch with distant family. Not everyone is aware that once you share your information with third parties, it will always be there. No matter how many times you delete something, and try to erase your past, it will forever be there. In fact, all of the info that you

BY SARAH ADAMOU | HARRISBURG HIGH SCHOOL

thought you’ve gotten rid of is retained by Facebook. One site I researched provided me with some information on privacy settings that I did not know about. According to the source, “Privacy settings revert to a less private default mode after each redesign”. Now just imagine! All that time that we thought we were making our pages private, we were basically doing the opposite. Unfortunately third parties are not the only ones who can see what we do. Scammers, hackers, and pedophiles are also included in the bunch. The sad part is that they can copy your information, and even use your profile as their own. For instance in a town in Brighton, a man and a woman’s house was vandalized all because of an advertisement on Facebook. The purpose was to invite at least 100 people or so to their daughter’s sweet sixteen. Instead the plan backfired, and the number of people accumulated up to 500! The couple had left four adults under supervision of the kids, and came back to find their house upside down! The four adults couldn’t handle 500 teenagers alone and were defenseless to stop them. It turned out, news of the party appeared on MTV’S “My Super Sweet 16” and spread like crazy! On the bright side, the mother was given a modeling contract after the story was displayed to the public, and she was discovered by a modeling scout. The bottom line is be careful what you post because anybody and everybody can see it! Social networking sites are appealing and useful for people of all ages, unfortunately not everyone uses them for the right reasons. There are pedophiles and hackers lurking all over the

net. This is why we have to be careful about who we befriend online. We also need to take caution in regards to the information we decide to display to the public. Social networking sites all ask users for their age, gender, hobbies,

and interests. Once predators gain access to this type of info, they use it to search for potential victims. After this they can locate their victims and even talk their way into obtaining more personal info from them. In worse case scenarios the victims are left physically, mentally, and emotionally abused. Their world is shattered, their life is jeopardized, and it was all because of a stupid website. Giving out your info to a complete stranger is the worst thing to do because you never know what that person's motive is. It's better to make wiser decisions and portray yourself in a positive way. The way people perceive you is very significant because that's a key factor to becoming successful. Now, the internet is not all bad. It serves as a great source of communication for connecting with families and friends. It's also an excellent way for employers to see whether or not you will be a good candidate for them. With all that said, we need to read and acquire knowledge about anything we sign our life up for. Not understanding the public and viral nature of the internet can serve as a detriment. Make selective choices that will benefit you in the future.

Senior Blues BY ELIZABETH ROYER | MECHANICSBURG AREA HIGH SCHOOL

Hi Seniors, Senior year is all about celebrating the past four years of your high school career (or, if you’re like me, the past thirteen years in the same school district). Pep rallies, award ceremonies, senior recognition dinners, scholarships, graduation parties-- even graduation itself is really about marking the end of something. But what if the past four (or thirteen) years of your academic life hasn’t been all that great? Maybe you failed a class and didn’t get that academic certificate you wanted. Maybe the lead in the musical went to your old rival and you got stuck in the choir for the fourth year in a row. Maybe you worked your butt off but never ended up being a starter on the varsity team. Or maybe you just never really understood the whole high school friend-circle thing. For whatever reason, you’re not getting the recognition that you wanted. For some reason, your senior year is not quite the party you thought it would be. If this sounds like you, here’s a few tips to help you actually enjoy the last few weeks of your senior year:

biggest cheerleaders.

2. Realize that different people flourish in different situations. Any adult in your life will testify to this truth. Whether you’re launching into the “real world” or heading to campus or hitting the road, this will be true. You’ll find the people who will appreciate your talents. While you’ll still encounter mean and insecure people in your life, the ratio of pettiness-to-maturity will balance out much more after high school. (Hint: Most of the awesome adults you know had a really rough time in high school.)

board games at your house, or ride some roller coasters. It doesn’t have to be formal--in fact, it’s usually more fun when it’s not. Do anything that makes you feel festive. Exchange phone numbers and email addresses so you can stay in touch. I recommend cake. Have fun! -A fellow senior.

3. Throw your own party.

Don’t click with the people at your school? Have a party with your friends from other districts, with your cousins, or with other people who get you. Go to the pool for a day, play

Going to college this fall? Getting promoted? Playing a set at the local coffee shop? Celebrate your successes. Don’t be afraid to brag about them a little. Don’t brush off compliments from your uncle or your grandma, either. They’re your

YOUR DOMAIN

1. Focus on the positive.

The Revelation of a High School Student BY SARAH CARTER | WEST PERRY HIGH SCHOOL

YOUR DOMAIN

“Adrielle Myers?” I stood up slowly. My stomach was full of butterflies as my whole body began to tremor. I made my way to the front of the cold, stony classroom. I could feel the many harsh eyes burn through the back of my skull. It was worse when I faced them.

Them. I thought, surveying the peers surrounding me, closing me in. It’s funny. These are the kids you met in elementary school; some of them were your best friends growing up. Others just know you as that girl who’s always reading…so many staring faces… “I’m ready when you are!” My teacher bellows. “Ah…Al…right.” I hate myself for letting my voice shake. What’s there to be afraid of? Oh…yeah…That’s right. A speech. But honestly, what’s so hard about a speech? You just talk about what you’ve written on the index cards. The thing is, we don’t have to talk about facts…no. No research was done; no notes or outlines were made. The only thing we have to do is talk about what changed our lives. Well I know what changed my life. Turned it all the way around. Until this happened to me I was just planning on having a normal life. How am I going to explain it? They just wouldn’t understand. Sometimes I barely understand how this happened. Before I second guess myself, I just go for it. I inhale deeply and feel the oxygen recharging me. “About a year and a half ago, I was just

an average kid living in the middle of nowhere. I figured I would just finish high school, go to college to become a history teacher, and one day start a family.” I look around the room and realize no one’s really paying attention. They either are too worried about their speech to listen to mine or are completely bored out of their minds. The teacher is barely listening either from what I can tell. I instantly relax and get into my story. “But all of that was about to change.” I pause for dramatic effect. It didn’t do anything. If no one really cares, why not just tell the truth. What could go wrong? I told everything. Everything that’s happened since I made that video. I finish and everyone is staring. Immediately I can feel my face glow red and I sit back down. There’s no clapping, and I feel ashamed. Everyone thought of me as this shy little girl who never talks. Now what will they think of me? Thank goodness it was Friday. When I get home, I edit the latest creation and put it online. Who cares what my peers think? I get ready on Monday very slow, reflecting on my weekend. My recent post has gotten the most views ever. I wonder if it’s because of everyone at school. Did they like it? Or were they laughing at me the whole time? I’m in first period when people start acting strange. Two guys walk by laughing. I don’t bother to look up and start reading a book. It’s probably not about me. You’re just jumping to conclusions. The rest of the morning I constantly felt people looking at me or thought others were gossiping about me. I still kept up my typical nonchalant attitude and everything was fine…until lunch. I didn’t really have any friends in my lunch period, so I just sat at the end of a table filled with “popular girls” if you could even call them that. I started to munch on some chips and read my book. It’s The Clique by Lisi Harrison. I’m at a really good part. The main character is about to face total humiliation from the

wrath of— All of a sudden the book is ripped out of my hands. I’m startled and jump back. “Finally, I got your attention! I’ve been saying your name for like five minutes!” It was Karen. Her straight, fiery red locks barely touched her shoulders. It looked like it was dyed. Those deep, dark eyes glared at me like I was a piece of worthless trash. “Oh, I’m uhhh…sorry. Can I have my book back?” She scoffs, “No way! You didn’t answer my question!” “Sorry. I guess I didn’t hear you.” She takes a sip of her bottled water. “I SAID,” exaggerating the words, “Did you really go to New York to have an article written about you in a magazine? Was everything you said in your speech really true?” All the girls at the table crowd around me. “Well I wasn’t making it up,” I say with

a smirk on my face. Where was all this confidence coming from? I nibble at my pizza crust and gulp some soda. Karen looks around at the other girls. “Not everyone was in our class. I’m sure they’d love to hear about…what changed your life.” At this point I have no idea what’s going on. Is she actually curious and just kidding around? Or is she just trying to humiliate me? Still unsure, I tell them the story anyway. What could go wrong? To find out what happens next, visit our blog: http://andmagazineadvice.tumblr. com/

THE MENTAL TERM FOR WRITERS BLOCK IS “GRAPHOSPASM”.

HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS TODAY HAVE THE SAME ANXIETY LEVELS AS INSANE ASYLUM MENTAL PATIENTS DURING THE 1950’S. A BLIND, BALD AND NEAR DEATH MAN WAS STRUCK BY LIGHTNING AND ALL THREE OF HIS CONDITIONS WERE FIXED. IT’S AGAINST THE LAW TO BURP OR SNEEZE IN A CHURCH IN NEBRASKA.

NO WORD IN THE ENGLISH LANGUAGE RHYMES WITH MOTH, ORANGE, SILVER, OR PURPLE.

DURING A 2004 EPISODE OF SESAME STREET, COOKIE MONSTER SAID THAT BEFORE HE STARED EATING COOKIES HIS NAMES WAS SID.

CHAINSAWS WERE ORIGINALLY CREATED AS A TOOL TO HELP DELIVER BABIES

HOMER SIMPSON WAS ORIGINALLY INTENDED TO BE REVEALED AS KRUSTY THE CLOWN, AND THAT IS WHY THEY LOOK ALIKE.

BEING IGNORED CAUSES THE SAME CHEMICAL REACTION IN THE BRAIN AS EXPERIENCING A PHYSICAL INJURY

THE REAL ILLUMINATI FOUNDED IN THE 1700S, WERE FORMED TO OPPOSE SUPERSTITION & PREJUDICE.

WINNIE THE POOH CHARACTERS ALL REPRESENT SOME TYPE OF MENTAL DISORDER (EEYORE- DEPRESSION, POOH- ADDICTION, TIGGER- ADHD, OWL- OCD)

SOME CANADIAN POLICE DEPARTMENTS ISSUE TICKETS THANKING CITIZENS FOR DOING SOMETHING GOOD. THERE’S OVER 76% CHANCE THAT IF YOUR ARE 16 AND OLDER YOU’VE ALREADY MET THE PERSON YOU’RE GOING TO MARRY.

THERE’S AT LEAST 6 PEOPLE IN THE WORLD THAT LOOK EXACTLY LIKE YOU, AND YOU HAVE A 15% CHANCE OF MEETING THEM

Kila’s Korner A MAN FELL OFF A BOAT WHAT HAPPENED NEXT ? HE FELL INTO THE WATER.

HOW MANY ELECTRICIANS DOES IT TAKE TO CHANGE A LIGHT BULB? ONE.

YOUR DIVERSION

COME IN

BY TESS BERGER | CEDAR CLIFF HIGH SCHOOL

PROM 2014

YOUR DIVERSION

Ah,spring.

The sight of nature coming back to life, the scent of blossoming flowers lingering in the air, the feeling of a warm breeze replacing the frigidness of winter… Oh, and prom! It is the Golden Globes of high school, the one day where every attendee has the right to feel like royalty. But, oh my God! What the heck do I wear? No mom, I’m not wearing your prom dress from the 80’s, and my date is not wearing dad’s leisure suit. Wait, I need a date first! Who would even want to take me to prom?! And what would he wear? Calm down, my friend! Prom is nothing to have an anxiety attack over. It should be something enjoyable and memorable, not stress-inducing. So sit tight, you’re on your way to being the next promfessional. Ladies, your first step in prom preparations is probably finding a dress. Though there are thousands of options, only one perfect dress exists. There are several factors in picking the one. In order to avoid stress, start small, and start early. Ask yourself: what fits me best? Take a trip to your local department store at least two

months in advance for this sole purpose. If you can determine the best fit, you will be well on your way to finding your dress. Next, find a dress that suits the undertones of your skin. Unlike skin tone, which changes as the seasons change, your undertone is always the same. There are three main undertones that you may have: cool, warm, or neutral. Don’t know your undertone? Check out your veins. If they’re blue, you have cool undertones. If they’re slightly green, you have warm undertones. If you have a combination or a blend of the two, then you’re neutral. So how does this help you? You may pick a beautiful dress in a stunning color, only to try it on and find that it makes you look completely washed out. So what color dress should you wear so that you don’t look like the Ghost of Proms Past (or an oompa loompa)? Well, if you have cool undertones, your skin tends to be complemented best by shades of blue, white, reds, and black (as well as silver). Those with warm undertones are best suited by golden tones like yellow and peach, as well as brown, red, and shades of green. Neutral skin tones look great with pretty much every color out there, so neutral skin tone gals, consider yourselves lucky!

Now that you have a good color and fit in mind, start the real search. I recommend looking online; that way, the odds of you wearing the same dress as another girl (Ahh!) is much lower. Though you can’t try dresses on if you order them off the Internet, they often provide the most variety and dimensions are usually provided in the Size Guide, along with reviews from previous buyers. Asos, an online clothing store originating in the U.K., has quite a variety of very unique and well-made gowns that will make you stand out among a sea of predictable dresses. If you’re buying a dress online, I probably wouldn’t wait until the last minute to order it ― there are no guarantees. It could look completely different in person than online, and it may not fit you correctly. In some cases, you can get your dress hemmed if it’s too long, and get it taken in if it’s too loose. However, this isn’t always a surefire way to construct your perfect gown. If you’re not a gal that tends to the modern, a vintage shop may be the perfect destination for your prom dress shopping experience. Miss Ruth’s Time Bomb in Carlisle set up shop in 2008 and has been collecting vintage finds statewide ever since. ModCloth is an

very high quality heels with a great variety as well. They have a store at Park City Mall and at King of Prussia Mall, but if you decide to pick a pair online, you get free shipping as long as your order is over $60. When wearing heels to prom, make sure they’re the right height. If your dress needs to be hemmed, I recommend buying your shoes early on so you can decide on the hemline based on the heel height. Though your dress shouldn’t be dragging on the floor, it should not expose your entire foot, either. Make sure you practice walking in your shoes so that you can a) wear them in so that they aren’t too stiff and you get blisters, and b) not look like you’re going to faceplant with every tiny step you take. The way you walk in your shoes can tell a lot about your confidence and comfort.

So what about jewelry?

Whether you opt for a statement piece or keep it dainty and simple, it has an amazing ability to take your dress from one look to the next. It’s kind of like a chameleon! As mentioned earlier, Rent the Runway lends you necklaces, bracelets, earrings, and rings from their top designer picks, slicing the cost so that it can be affordable for you. If you’re not into the whole renting thing, BaubleBar offers, “designer jewelry at guilt-free prices.” I like the sound of that already! If you’re not a fan of statement jewelry, I guarantee you BaubleBar will brainwash you with their gorgeous bling. And free

shipping?! Well, there goes my paycheck. Charming Charlie, jewelry at more affordable prices, has a great selection as well, with the high quality to match. For those anti-splurgers, Forever 21 is always stocked (in store and online) with inexpensive jewelry. Seriously, how do they make such intricate necklaces for 10 bucks? But, be careful when buying online — what looks high quality on your computer screen may look and feel cheap in person. Make sure that you don’t go overboard with the jewelry, too. Three chunky necklaces, two sets of dangling earrings, and five bangles on each arm is just not practical if you plan on dancing the night away (and it looks pretty ridiculous). Guys have bottomless pockets. The much more glamorous female counterpart is the purse, and the type of purse designated for prom is the clutch. It is the perfect size to fit all of your prom necessities: your phone, a camera if desired, some emergency cash, blotting sheets (if your face gets greasy from all the dancing), rollerball perfume, and your lip product of choice. When selecting said clutch, choose one that will complement your ensemble nicely. For example, if you have a solid-colored dress, snazz it up with something that’s a little unexpected, like a metallic or (faux) snakeskin handbag. I really love the idea of a cheetah print clutch with a red gown, or a sleek black dress with a really abstract print. You can find evening bags such as these at local T.J. Maxx and Marshalls stores. Macy’s also carries a wide selection of clutches perfect for your night out. Okay boys, now it’s your turn. Lucky for you guys, all you have to worry about

YOUR DIVERSION

online vintage boutique that doesn’t just carry formal gowns appropriate for prom, but casual clothes and accessories too. Another really cool site is Rent the Runway. This website is for you girls who will wear your prom dress once, only to stick it in the back of your closet until you move out. Rent the Runway lets you “rent” designer dresses for just a fraction of the retail price. With thorough customer reviews and the ability to order a second test size for free, it is nearly impossible to be dissatisfied with your purchase. The site also offers jewelry and handbags for rent, as well as dresses for every occasion. Plus, you get $25 off your first purchase (cha-ching!). Look like a million bucks without actually paying that much. Speaking of accessories, they play a crucial role in completing your prom look. A bold pair of earrings, a striking clutch, or a sassy pair of shoes can transform an outfit from drab to fab! As shoe god Jimmy Choo once said, “The right shoe can make everything different.” And I don’t think he was only talking about the outfit. The perfect high heel can make you feel like a different woman. It can make you feel confident, daring, even empowered. So where do you find a shoe with such mystical powers? Lucky for you, Central Pennsylvania has been blessed with an abundance of shoe stores. The DSW in the Capital City Mall is bursting with cute heels to complement any prom look you have in mind. And if you don’t see a pair you like, their online store has over a thousand options with “shoe lovers” who can answer any question you may have. Bon-Ton also has a plethora of prom shoes, all at pretty decent prices. If you want to splurge a little bit, Aldo has

YOUR DIVERSION

outfit-wise is your clothes and your shoes. For prom, the most appropriate look is the tuxedo. Most guys prefer to rent a tux (rather than buy one), as prom is the only black tie event they will most likely attend in their high school years. The main tux destination in Central PA is Men’s Warehouse. Their selection ranges from classic black tuxedos to the much flashier option of a white ensemble for you more audacious fellows. Prom rentals start at $60. However, you can easily cut that cost down by signing up online (http:// tuxedo.menswearhouse.com/registerandSave.do). Your prom rental will automatically be $30 off! Men’s Warehouse also is running a rewards competition: The Prom Rep Challenge. This program gives you the opportunity to win a free tux rental, a suit of your own, and even $25,000! Simply sign up online, read the Rules as well as the Terms & Conditions, and begin. When you have given five Rental Referrals, you are rewarded a free tux rental or a brand new suit to claim as yours. The more referrals you get, the more chances you have to win. The contest runs until June 29. Anyway, back to the subject: what to wear? Guys, most of this depends on your date and what she wants (after all, girls usually get what they want). You don’t want your girlfriend crying during pictures because her dress is lilac and you bought a lavender bow tie. A good idea is to bring your date to your fitting, as well as a picture of her dress (the actual dress would be even better). Start with pants and a coat. Then, decide whether you want a white or a black shirt. White is usually best because it draws attention toward your face and it stands out well against a black jacket, but it works with a white coat

as well. Now, decide if you want to match your date’s dress, or if you’d rather go with black accents. If you match, it will be more obvious that you and your date are together, but the classic black bow tie and suspenders look never fails, either. When it comes to shoes, they should match the color of your coat and pants. The prom-posal is arguably the most dramatic and most highly anticipated event of the average high-school-girl’s career. What girl doesn’t like a grand gesture to show that a guy has made an effort to make one girl feel special? Even if you two are dating and “know” you will be attending with each other, this caring act is guaranteed to make your girl the happiest person on Earth. Remember, “special” doesn’t mean elaborate. And to make it special, it’s your job to figure out your prospective date’s interests. If you plan on surprising her with a bouquet of flowers, come up with a subtle way to ask what her favorite variety is. If you want to blow your girl away, incorporate your personal talents into your master plan. Maybe you’re a great singer — record a song and sneakily put it in her iTunes library, then set it as the next song to play. How could she say no?! Girls also love surprises in all forms. Show up at her job location or to one of her classes with some of her favorite things: candy, a bouquet of handpicked flowers and something you feel represents her. Just get creative! And girls, don’t be shy! Don’t use the “but I’m a girl” excuse to stop you from asking the guy you have your eye on! Now that you have your date, you can pick out the corsage and boutonniere. The corsage is a small bouquet of flowers worn around the woman’s wrist, while the boutonniere is a single flower worn on the lapel of the tux. Typically, they should match the dress (and each other), but if you would rather pick other colors, that works too! If you have a date, it’s best to go to the flower shop together so you make sure to get exactly what you want. Most flower shops in the area, like Royer’s, sell corsages and boutonnieres. However, if you are unsure, call or stop by the store beforehand. It’s best to pick out the flowers at least one week before prom so the flower shop employees aren’t rushing at the last minute to put your order together. Every girl wants to look absolutely perfect on their prom day. With all the pictures to be taken, you have to look good, right? First stop: hair and makeup. Some prefer to do this on their own, while others would rather have a professional take care of these steps. Others even ask friends or family to help out. If you choose to go to a makeup counter or a makeup artist, make sure to bring in some pictures of the look(s) you’re into. And if you don’t like the direction in which the look is going, SAY SOMETHING! It’s about what you want, not what they think looks best. If you decide to do your own makeup, look up some tutorials on YouTube. They can really ensure that the look you’re going for will actually be achieved. You should also practice your prom makeup at least once before the big event. Hair is another element that can really take your look to another level. It can be done in so many ways: up, down, half up-half down, curly, straight, wavy, plaited — it’s madness! If your dress has a really intricate neckline, I would wear my hair up to show it off to jealous onlookers. Go for something that you wouldn’t do with your ‘do on a daily basis. It’s your special day after all! No matter what style you go for, use a heavy duty hairspray that won’t make your hair crunchy (not cute). Many ladies opt for their

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hair up and out of their face because of all the sweat-inducing dancing. Now onto nails. They should either match your dress perfectly (there’s a shade for everything) or they should be a neutral color. It would just look crazy if you had a purple dress and orange nails! If you’d like, treat yourself to a mani-pedi the day of or the day before prom (if you do it a week before your nails will probably chip). If you do it yourself, make sure there are no mistakes and that it looks clean and sharp. So, you’re all ready for the night ahead of you to begin. It’s time to take pictures, eat dinner, and get your dance on! If it’s a nice night out, find an outdoor destination for your group’s photo op. That may be a local park, a friend’s house, or by any beautiful spot in the area. Before moms and dads attack you with 7,000 camera flashes at once, make sure you’re looking your best. That may mean a fresh swipe of lip gloss, a quick hair fix, and a subtle dress adjustment. Before prom day, take some mirror selfies (don’t be ashamed) to find your perfect angle and smile. Trust me, it will guarantee that the photos come out looking exactly how you want, AKA no lazy eyes and looking like The Hunchback of Notre Dame. Okay, time to get your grub on. Some proms provide dinner, while others don’t. If they don’t, kids usually decide to go out to a restaurant together. For a pre-prom meal, it’s hard to find a restaurant fancy enough for the occasion, yet not too expensive. Black N Bleu on the Carlisle Pike is the perfect combination of these two. Plus, the food is delicious! Devon Seafood Grill in Hershey has a mouthwatering menu consisting of super fresh seafood and other yummy indulgences. However, it is fairly expensive unless you share your meal with someone. You can always choose to stay in and either have a big dinner with your group, or a dinner for two meal at home. Once prom is over, the night is still very alive. After prom, some schools host a post-prom, which includes a variety of fun activities to participate in so the night doesn’t have to end immediately. While post-prom is a fun and safe option, some kids prefer to attend parties after prom. Before deciding to go to a party, there are a couple things you may want to think about. Ask yourself: Will I feel comfortable attending a party where there may be drugs and alcohol? If you feel uncomfortable, do not go. If you do go, make sure you go with friends you know and trust. If something goes wrong, you will definitely not want to be alone. You should also let someone who is not attending know where you are in case of emergency. Make sure your phone is with you at all times and charged. Most importantly, don’t feel pressured to drink, do drugs, have sex, or do anything you feel uneasy about. It’s always better safe than sorry. If you decide to leave the party, get a ride from someone that you are positive isn’t under the influence of any drugs or alcohol. Anything can happen, so be smart about your choices. So now that you know all the in’s and out’s of prom, blow everyone away with your serious knowledge this spring. Whether you attend solo or with someone on your arm, you can now consider yourself the resident prom expert.

PROM QUIZ

BY KIMBERLY SHAFFER | ACHIEVEMENT HOUSE CYBER CHARTER SCHOOL | AEGIS EDUCATION ENDEAVOR PARTNERED RESOURCE CENTER

believe it will make the students not pay attention?” Well, under that circumstance there needs to be proof that it is disruptive. For example, if you got on your desk and started to yell inappropriate things about being gay during the middle of class, that would be a disruption. “My school blocked me from websites that provide me with helpful resources about the LGBTQ Community.” Schools aren’t supposed to block websites just because they don’t agree with what the website is portraying. This violates your First Amendment Rights and the Equal Access Act. You are allowed access to these types of resources as any

other sites you may visit to research any topic. A big potential issue that might hit home for many students is PROM. “I want to take my same sex partner to the prom but the school says I am not allowed to.” Students have a First Amendment right of free expression to take a same sex date to a school dance. In 1980, Aaron Fricke wanted to go to senior prom with Paul Guilbert. The principal, fearing other students would be offended told Aaron that he and Paul could not do this! The federal court ruled that the school must allow the two to attend as a couple. In addition they had to provide security to ensure the couple’s safety. If the school decides to take drastic measures and try to cancel prom the school may be violating the student’s First Amendment Rights. “I want to start a Gay-Straight Alliance (GSA) Club but the school turned it down.” Under the Federal Equal Access Act if a public school permits non-curricular clubs, then it must allow students to form a GSA. Also, it may not treat some noncurricular clubs differently than others. If other clubs hang posters, so can yours. If all the other clubs meet on campus you’re permitted to meet on campus as well. They aren’t allowed to make you take the “gay” word out of your group’s name. Also, the GSA Clubs must comply with the rules their individual schools set up for clubs, including but not limited to having a faculty sponsor and parental permission to join. The information I have provided was received by the president of the OutLaw Organization at Penn State University. There are many other rights you have and they can easily be found. I am a supporter and have been all my life. There are many places students can go for help or support. If you are local to Harrisburg there is an LGBTQ Center in Harrisburg. You can look them up on Facebook or a search engine of your choice. If you have any other questions please let And Magazine (@ANDMagazinePA) know so we can get you the information you need. If your school has violated your rights as an LGBTQ student, there are legal resources available to you. One resource is The ACLU of Pennsylvania.

YOUR DIVERSION

Being an LGBTQ High School Student

As an ally of the LGBTQ community, I know a lot of students are frustrated and feeling lost and scared when it comes to being out in school. How will teachers and peers act? Or what if my school treats me differently? What if I can’t do everything all the other students get to do? Well guess what?! I am going to enlighten you on some laws, regulations and other things that as a LGBTQ student you are entitled to know! I am just going to give some situations that may happen and then give you the information you need to know in case something like this were to happen to you or a friend. “I wore a T-shirt to school today that expressed my supportive nature towards the LGBTQ community and was sent to the principal’s office. He made me change my shirt. “ Alright so in this instance this would be violating your First Amendment Right to Freedom of Expression. You have the right to express your interests and support of something just like any other student and you cannot be made to take it off. But there are some restrictions that can be set in place by the school. Schools can restrict your expression if it is obscene, threatening, lewd, or vulgar. Additionally, speech can be restricted if it causes a significant disruption to class. Now you may say, “Well what if the teacher just says it’s a disruption because they don’t like it and

ALLER BY DEIVONTE WASHINGTON | HARRISBURG HIGH SCHOOL

GALLERY

BY MADDY MELNICHAK | DAUPHIN HIGH SCHOOL

BY JOE BINDER | TRINITY HIGH SCHOOL

GALLERY

BY JULIA GLYNN | WEST SHORE CHRISTIAN ACADEMY

BY KIMBERLY SHAFFER | AHCCS-AEE

GALLERY

BY CHRISTINA COLANGELO | TRINITY HIGH SCHOOL

A Teenager’s Guide to Saving Money BY CARA GLYNN | CEDAR CLIFF HIGH SCHOOL

I am not one bit ashamed to

YOUR MONEY

admit that I love a good bargain. One of my favorite things to do in my free time is shop; however, you will very rarely see me pay full price for an item. I think of shopping as a game: “How good of a deal can I get on something that I really love?” It’s so much more fun this way, rather than feeling guilty for nearly giving up an arm and a leg for a simple purse. Through my few years of teenagehood and my slight shopping addiction, I have established a few simple tactics to save a few bucks and avoid an empty wallet! Here are some tricks of the trade that I rely on to save money: 1. Coupons When I go shopping, I always like to check if I have received any coupons in the mail. Stores like American Eagle, Express and Gap frequently send out savings coupons if you sign up for their mailing list. If you don’t want to sign up for a mailing list, there are also many apps for smartphones that can help you save. My favorite coupon app is Retail Me Not. You simply type in the store name and it quickly lists every coupon that is available. Talk about easy! Never feel shame in trying to get a good deal! Why wouldn't you take advantage of these coupons? They are there for you to use them!

2. Birthday Bargains Also, Did you know that you get a whole bunch of free things, simply because it is your birthday? Of course, many restaurants will treat you with a free dessert, but did you know that some even give a free entree? Additionally, Sephora will gift you with free makeup, Ulta will give a complimentary eyebrow wax, and Auntie Anne’s a free

pretzel, just to name a few! For a full list, simply search on Google, or visit www.thefrugalgirls.com/ birthday-freebies. 3. Consign Another little known way to save money is that you can sell your old and gently used clothing to consignment shops. Many shops will even pay cash up front for clothing that they think would be good enough to sell. This is a much smarter way of cleaning out the closet! Instead of trashing clothing that’s too small, why not try your hand at consignment? There are many consignment shops in our area, such as Wears Like New, Hello Gorgeous and Style’s Boutique. Each is very upscale for being secondhand, and carry everything from shoes to bags to wedding gowns and everything in between. 4. Get Creative! Similarly, weekend outings, dates and dinners can get quite pricey, especially for a full time student. Perhaps staying in for the night with some Netflix or even taking a trip to the West Shore Theater (a much cheaper theater that plays movies just a bit later than the original release) could save you some cash at the movies. Likewise, a homemade dinner or fondue night can be thoughtful date alternatives to the always expensive option of frequently eating out. Also, since the warm weather has FINALLY arrived, there are plenty of “cheap dates” that can take place outdoors. Granted, central PA isn’t the most scenic place ever, but get creative! Taking a trip to City Island or to the Senator’s game is a great way to spend a warm night. You and your date could take a trip to the river with some ice cream, or go to the Art’s Festival. Both very

fun ideas that will not empty your wallet! Whatever you do, use this time to enjoy the outdoors! As corny as it sounds, maybe having a picnic with your date/ your friends would be a fun way to spend the afternoon. Take advantage of the perfect breeze and temperature, because there are plenty of things to do now that snow isn’t covering the ground! With college and adult life approaching us, it is essential to begin saving as much money as possible; however, depositing your entire paycheck into the bank is never fun! Setting aside a small amount for spending, and putting the rest into your bank account is a great rule to have, and it helps you keep self-control! While it is great to go out to eat, go to the movies and indulge in a shopping spree, it is important to establish good habits of saving money. As you have read, there are plenty of little ways to save that will add up in the end. By taking a few measures to stretch a dollar, you will be ready for college and adult life in no time! Have other ideas? Tell us how you save money @ANDMagazinePA

Protecting Yourself Against Identity Theft BY CARA GLYNN | CEDAR CLIFF HIGH SCHOOL

noun the fraudulent acquisition and use of a person’s private identifying information, usually for financial gain. The issue of identity theft can be very scary; even so, it is hard for anyone to ever imagine this could happen to them. However, fraud can happen to anyone. With the recent incident with identity theft at Target, light has been shed on this dangerous issue. It is essential to stay on top of things while managing your money. As you reach the age of obtaining your own debit/ credit card, keep these simple and easy tips in mind that will help you avoid identity theft at all costs! 1. Be cautious on the web: I know that I am going to sound like your mother here, but this fact cannot be stated enough. The internet is a very dangerous place if not used safely! To steer clear of hackers, be sure to ignore sketchy spam emails. If the subject line of an email from an unknown sender seems even the least bit suspicious, delete the email all together. It is also important to be extremely careful while online shopping. Since you will likely be paying with a credit card, be sure that the site is credible and not scamming you. Hint: to confirm a credible site, look for “https” in the address bar. Lastly, even though this may seem obvious, it is NEVER an okay time to send social security or credit card numbers in

an email. If this information has to be safely communicated, it is best to do so over the phone or in person. 2. Get rid of your private records: Tear up or shred any type of old ATM card, credit card, deposit slip and even debit card receipts. Any information that contains your private financial information on it is very dangerous to have floating around, and for optimal security, should be destroyed. 3. Be careful when sending and receiving mail: You can never be too careful, especially with the severity of identity theft. Therefore, any time you are mailing bill payments or checks, be sure that your envelope is sealed and not see through. It is even suggested that if possible, try your best to drop these items off at your local post office to avoid the stealing of mail. Similarly, do your best to collect mail from the mailbox as soon as it is delivered. Leaving mail with financial information sit in the open for long periods of time can be very dangerous. 4. “Guard” your Social Security number: It is absolutely essential to know the importance of protecting your Social Security (SS) number. Bottom line: this is your personal identification number. A thief can access your credit report and all of your bank accounts with your number. To ensure maximum amounts of safety, never carry your SS card

around with you. Instead, memorize it for any time it legitimately needs to be used. Avoid ever writing it on checks or other papers where it is optional. 5. Recognize scams: Especially in the age of digital communication, recognizing scams is getting harder and harder. However, this is one of the best ways to ensure your personal information is safe. It is detrimental not to be able to understand the difference between a scam email, website and phone call. Be extremely cautious when giving out any type of personal information, especially if it is financial. Hint: if someone is trying to contact you claiming to be a representative from you bank or credit card company, never release information if you feel they are illegitimate. Contact the company directly to confirm anything seeming suspicious. It’s hard to ever picture yourself in the situation of identity theft, sadly however, it has become quite the “hot topic.” More and more people are figuring out ways to hack into bank accounts, credit cards and other very personal financial information. It is critical to take all the necessary steps you can in order to prevent this theft at all costs because once it happens to someone, it takes a lot more effort to reverse and protect yourself again.

YOUR MONEY

i·den·ti·ty theft:

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Professional football,

also known as the NFL, is by far one of the most watched sports in the United States. The constant tackling and running attracts the men, but woman also enjoy watching and cheering for their favorite team. The fact that the majority of the players are noticeably well fit and just happen to be wearing tight pants, might just be a plus for the ladies. The main point here is that our society loves this grueling game, and when there is important news regarding something people love, they want to hear it, right? There is always ‘talk’ about changing a couple of rules within the game, but they always seem to end up being pointless, turned down, or just not important enough. Once again, there is more of this so called ‘talk’ going on, only this time, the rule is important and might actually have the opportunity to be passed. In March of 2013 there was talk about getting rid of the extra point and it is now starting to resurface. Oh yes, you did read that right. The “free” point they practically give you after you score a touchdown, might just be coming to an end. I guess the league’s Competition Committee has decided that this point may be a little too easy for such talented players; but how is this going to change the scoring of the game? There is a rumor that may or may not be true about what is going to replace this “free” point. The touchdown itself will be worth seven points, but there is a possibility of eight points total; that is if the team has the guts to go for it. Instead of kicking a nineteen yard, line drive into the field goal posts, they want to make things a little challenging for these professional athletes. To receive the full eight points you must run or throw the ball into the end zone for a second time. Now here’s the twist, if you fail at this attempt, your seven point touchdown now turns into a six point touchdown. Now what I am wondering is if these skilled teams will actually be willing to take a chance at losing their seven point touchdown. A couple details have been left out of this, like where the starting line for this new extra point may be and what happens if a penalty is called while trying to attempt the eight point touchdown? Many are wondering if these certain “issues” will prevent the players for wanting to go for the total eight points. Perhaps the board wants to abolish the extra point and add this new concept to make every play in the NFL more exciting for the fans. As we can probably all tell, there are still many unanswered questions that will, hopefully, be answered soon in the months to come. Since the 2013-2014 football season has come to an end, and the 20142015 NFL season will be starting up in just a few months, the questioning and voting will begin on whether or not they wish to pass this new and improved rule. If twenty-four, out of the thirty-two team owners, vote yes, the extra point will be permanently removed from the NFL. Now that sounds a lot easier than it will actually turn out to be. Like I said earlier, they are going to have to add an additional amount of rules in order to make this new arrangement run smoothly. In all honesty, I think the last thing the NFL board wants to do is make the game more confusing to grasp. Therefore, the outcome of the vote is kind of hard to predict. How do you feel about this possible change? Do you think it’s a good idea to get rid of the extra point? Do you think the outcome of this vote might upset the fans or cause any confusion? Let us know how you feel about the termination of the extra point on twitter, at @ANDMagazinePA There are many unanswered questions that I’m sure die-hard NFL fans wish could just be answered now. If you’re amongst the group of those fans, I’m sorry to tell you that the process is going to take much longer than a couple of days. For now we will have to leave it up to them; let the debating begin!

NFL Changes A Rule BY CARLY PEREZ | RED LAND HIGH SCHOOL

BY CARLY PEREZ | RED LAND HIGH SCHOOL

Gymnastics. A sport I, myself, am quite familiar with, considering I’ve been doing it for the past 12 years of my life. Gymnastics, to me, requires a mixture of both mental and physical abilities. As Shawn Johnson once said “Everything is about your movements and precision and timing, which is what gymnastics is about.” Most people can see that this sport requires great strength, but only the gymnasts themselves can understand why you must train your mind to allow yourself to perform the intricate tricks people are so fascinated by. Let’s take a ride into the mind of a gymnast, shall we? How about we start off learning a little about the sport of gymnastics? There are four events in women’s gymnastics, floor, vault, beam and bars. My personal favorite is the floor. You tend to get a little something, called a wedgie, which is quite uncomfortable. Having half of your butt hanging out, for all to see, isn’t the most comfortable feeling. Although this one time I did try out butt glue, but I wouldn’t advise anyone to try that out because it actually causes some pain when trying to remove your leo. By far, the best part about floor is the feeling while you’re flipping high through the air. Even though you’re only in the air for a couple seconds, it feels as if time is paused and you are no longer attached to the normal world. While your teammates cheer and scream for you, the noise evaporates and you are confined in your own personal bubble. You get a feeling in the pit of your stomach, consisting of both fear and excitement that drives you to continue on with the skill. You only return back to reality when you land firmly on the ground, sending a quick shock through every muscle and joint in your body. I guess since I told you all a little about my favorite event, I must now tell you about the dreaded uneven bars. Some may find it fun

to get dime sized rips on your hands, but I in fact do not enjoy the feeling of that. But wait, rips aren’t the only downside of this grueling event. Imagine what it would be like to have hard, dry calluses all over your hands, sounds attractive doesn’t it? I really do feel bad for the next boy who has to hold my dry, callused hands. The uneven bars are made for people with an immense amount of upper arm strength, which tends to be the weakest part of my body. The skills you master on the bars, never seem to stick around for very long either. One practice you’ll have a new skill you’ve been working on for forever, and then the next practice it’ll be like you never even mastered it. The uneven bars just sound like a blast, don’t they? As you stand in the corner of the floor you realize that you’re about to perform a trick consisting of multiple flips and twists. While your mind is screaming at you to just give up, you’re already picturing yourself doing the skill. Most gymnasts have their own “tick”, in a sense that they tend to do when they are nervous or scared. For example, when I am nervous I shuffle my feet. The best feeling is being able to become confident enough to no longer do your “tick” before a tricky skill. Depending on how hard the skill may be is what determines how long it will take to master the skill. There’s a difference between mastering a skill and perfecting a skill. When you master a skill you will be able to do it whenever. When it comes to perfecting a skill, I really don’t feel it is possible. No matter how long you may have been doing a skill, there is always room for improvement. In February 2014, I had a meet in downtown Philadelphia that raised money for breast cancer awareness. As a way to raise money they brought in Olympic gymnast Shawn Johnson and sold meet and greet tickets. I, of course, jumped at the chance to meet Shawn Johnson, considering she is my idol. When the day came I got all decked out

in my pink wear and headed over to the convention center. When you walked into the building, you immediately saw the mile long line wrapping around the inside of the building, all in line to meet Shawn Johnson. After waiting for a solid hour, I finally caught a slight glimpse of Shawn. As I walked up to her we exchanged hellos, she signed my shirt, and we took a very charming picture. Before my competition she gave all of the gymnasts an uplifting speech and wished us all good luck. After the competition, I remembered that I had to post the picture Shawn and I took together all over internet, obviously so I could make all of my friends totally jealous. Turns out Shawn ended up making 200,000 people jealous of me by posting the picture of us to her Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter page. The experience was so surreal and I will forever remember this amazing experience. Although most people see gymnastics as an individual sport, your teammates are what drive you to try to reach past your goals. I grew up competing with the majority of my team for seven years now. We practice four days a week and have about one competition every month, during competition season. Your teammates are there to cheer you on, no matter how many times you may fall on your face. My teammates have become my second family and I wouldn’t trade any of them for the world. As a gymnast, I tend to doubt myself and my abilities more than normal, so much to the point where I was no longer sure if I was fit enough for the rigorous sport. There have been many times where I felt like giving up on gymnastics, or just quitting, but then I gave it some thought and realized that I can’t picture myself not doing gymnastics. Gymnastics has taught me numerous life lessons, along with a good bit of self-discipline. Just like most athletes, the sport they perform becomes a part of them. In a sense, gymnastics has become a part of me and I will continue to hold onto that for forever.

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GYMNASTICS

Jesse Campbell, Student Athlete BY KEELY FICKAU | CASA

YOUR SCORE

HERSHEY- Check left. Check right. Jesse Campbell has little time to think before the offense attacks. The time clock ticks away in the last quarter of the game while the screaming student crowd cheers on the Hershey High School Football Team. Hershey is down by one point. Campbell throws the ball to his open wide receiver. Only thirty seconds in the game, touchdown. Campbell, senior, has been playing football since 2nd grade. “It was flag football,” Campbell said. When he went to the middle school, he started to play football. From the middle school to high

school, he considered football as a college career. Right now, Delaware, Towson, William and Mary are scouting him out to play for their schools. “It [football] runs in the family,” Campbell said. Over three generations of football players are in the Campbell family. His great grandfather, Ken Campbell, played football at West Chester University and in 1960s played for the New York Titans

but is currently retired. Over the course of eight years, his father, Scott Campbell was a quarterback for the Steelers, Falcons, but currently is the owner of Brownstone real-estate. His older brother, Jake Campbell, 21, Hershey High alumni, played at Hershey High School and in college played at

University of Delaware. “Sports have always been in the family,” Campbell said. Currently Campbell, following big brother’s footsteps, is playing quarterback for the Hershey High School football team. “I get nervous before games and I pray as well,” said Campbell. He expressed that he relies on his dad to give him knowledge about the game of football since his father was an NFL player. “Jesse is a silent leader, he carries

the team on his back,” said Dallas Ricker, senior, who has played with Campbell on the field for many years.

Being a senior in high school, Campbell has to juggle the stresses of colleges, maintaining good grades, playing football, but he wouldn’t trade it at for anything in the world. He admitted about being unsure about college but he does know football will be in his life. He would like to play at a university. “Jesse is a leader who leads by example and is able to advance the ball and make big plays with his athleticism,” said Scott Campbell. Campbell will attend and play football at Towson University in the Fall of 2014.

vs. Which test is best? Spring means that college admission tests are in full swing. Whether you are taking your test for the third time, or just beginning the preparation, the SAT’s and ACT’s are never fun. As a high school senior who has gone through my fair share of studying and taking these tests last year, I know just how much of an itch they can be. Through taking both the SAT and the ACT, multiple times, I have recognized which test I work better on. Knowing the differences between the two can help you achieve your best possible result. It is important to know that the SAT is not your only testing option. Even though the SAT seems to be more prevalent on the East Coast that does not mean that it is the better choice for you. The ACT, an assessment once more heavily used on the West Coast is quickly becoming popularized throughout the United States. Most colleges are accepting both ACT and SAT scores the same, so it is now up to you to choose which test you would like to take. It is as simple as that… it is your choice. Everyone is different, especially when it comes to test taking, so usually you will favor one test over another. Although not completely different, the two tests do possess a few distinct qualities that set them apart from one another. The biggest difference between the two comes down to how they are scored. On the SAT, 1 point is given for correct answers; however, ¼ of a point is subtracted for every wrong answer. This can be tough, especially if you are attempting a super good score. On the other hand, the ACT does not penalize for wrong answers. That means that if you don’t know an answer, you can guess without being super stressed about getting it right all the time! Another difference is the overall layout of the test. For example, from my experience, the ACT questions seem to be stated much more straightforwardly. It seemed as though many questions on the SAT left me trying to figure out exactly what was being asked, whereas the ACT stated them much more simply. Also, the SAT is split into many test sections (there may be two for math, three for reading, etc…). However, on the ACT there is only one longer section for each subject. In addition to the layouts of the tests, some of the content is also different. There is a science section on the ACT, but don’t freak out. Even if you are not an A+ biology or physics student, you do not have to worry. Most of the science questions test your ability to read and analyze charts or graphs to find an answer. It is important to really read and study these graphs though, and not to rush through them! Something distinct about the SAT is that in includes questions dealing with vocabulary. For me, these were by far some of the toughest ones to crack, because many of the words that were mentioned, I had never even heard before. Even as an English nerd, I still struggled through these, because guessing was penalized. Thankfully though, there are numerous iPhone apps and websites dealing with SAT vocabulary terms which will certainly help to introduce you to some new words! A rumor that you may have heard is that the writing portion of the ACT is optional. Although this is technically correct, most colleges do require

the ACT PLUS WRITING test and will not accept the non-writing option. However, don’t stress. If you are not a huge fan of writing the timed and scored essays on the SAT, the ACT may be the better option for you. Although this essay is timed, your essay score does not affect your overall composite score for the whole exam. Whew! That was a lot of information about two tests! I hope that by the end of this article you have some idea of what test you think is better for you! If you can, I would recommend taking each test at least once so you can see exactly which one you prefer and that you scored highest on. Although scores are certainly NOT everything that goes into college admission (in fact, their significance is quite small in comparison to everything else about your application) It is important to do the best that you can and choose the test that will help you do so! Good luck! **At the time of publication, changes to the SAT effective 2016 were announced. Stay tuned to @ ANDMagazinePA to learn more about these changes**

YOUR FUTURE

BY CARA GLYNN | CEDAR CLIFF HIGH SCHOOL

Graduation: Now What?

YOUR FUTURE

BY BRIANA SPEARS| SCI TECH HIGH SCHOOL

By the time you’re reading this, it will probably be sometime in spring. I’m sure that the flowers have started to bloom beautifully, the weather is changing and things are good, right? It’s like the year has come and gone so fast and you don’t know where the time went. It feels like senior year just started and now you’re about to graduate. It is quite a surreal feeling. Graduation is what I like to call the turning point in every individual’s life. You only graduate high school once. Graduation is far more than just a ceremony of commencement. Graduation is a defining point in your life. After you graduate all the cards are on the table and it is up to you to determine what path you will take. The day is one that every child looks forward to. I cannot even begin to think of how many times this year alone I’ve said to myself I can’t wait to graduate. I have looked forward to this day for longer than I can remember and now that it is approaching, it does not feel real. As I am forced to think about graduation, it makes me think about so much more. I think of my entire life and have to wonder how I got to this point so soon. I think about how everything turned out the way it did and what is in store for me. I am worried about what comes next and having to face the thought that my dad will not be there to see me graduate. I just have to think of it in the sense that he will be looking down on me during that special moment to see me walk the stage. Thinking of these things brings forth thoughts about my childhood and the things I want to accomplish in the future. I have to ask myself if college is even the right thing for me. Young adults, you must ask yourself if you are ready to take this next step in life. I mean sure it is a great thought to be grown, on my own, able to do what I want, when I want with whom I please. Rules are overrated, sure, but in the end, they help. Those times when your mom makes you stay home to clean your room instead of hanging with your friends or makes you go to church on a Friday night. That’s what my senior year has been like. Though right now I may not agree with everything or feel like it’s not fair, I know that it will help me to grow into a mature adult with a life full of success. Most teens look forward to graduation for the wrong reasons and lack the preparation that is needed to make it in the real world. I cannot begin to think of all the times my mother has said to me I can’t wait until you get in the real world and see how easy you had it. It is important to be not only financially prepared but to obtain a level of maturity to make it on your own. All of your experiences have prepared us in one way or another for what is to come. After graduation, everyone takes a different path and it is important to know what the right path is for you. Whether it is going to college to further your education, going to a trade school, joining the Army, or simply staying home and getting a job, everyone has to make the decision that best suits them.

THE

The first time I saw her was in the tunnel. It’s an odd place to meet such a beautiful stranger. A fight with my parents had driven me there. I’m worthless and stupid, I won’t amount to anything; I’m sorry I had forgotten. I could tell she was fierce, a sharp personality from afar, like shards of glass. I strolled through the darkness, the murky water beside me as deep and dirty as my thoughts. I wasn’t usually like this. I mean, I wore a mask but who doesn’t? Usually people described me as bubbly, but tonight my thoughts were like a summer storm, thundering and destructive. What sane person would be wandering around in a tunnel? Tears blurred my vision and my hand brushed the knife in my pocket as I thought of earlier that day. Upon arriving home from school, I traded my costly pastel blouse and glittering flats my mother had bought me for something a little more me. Her vision of the perfect daughter constantly suffocated me. I needed to get away, out

of that house where perfection was demanded. Determined to put the memory out of my head I drifted here, blending into the shadows allowing obscurity to claim me. I stared at the woman. She reminded me of myself; ghostly skin and fair hair that soaked up the moonlight. As I drew closer, I found myself studying her. She had short tousled wisps that churned around her head like snakes intertwined. Her lips were full of fascination, dripping the warmest maroon while dribbling an identical hue across her icy fingertips. She wore all black in a way that made her stand out, and yet she was disguised. From a distance, she resembled a dark angel, tempting and appealing, mourning her own loss. The woman’s gaze was transfixed as she sat in the corner, deep in thought, masked with a secret. I tried not to notice her but she appealed to me in a way no others did. As I drew nearer I heard her voice, the peals of a thousand tiny bells conducted into the darkest symphony. I did

not realize until I tripped how much her voice had drawn me to her. With a clatter, the symphonies stopped. A wave of pain triumphed over me. I clutched my knee and tried to gather myself as I brushed off my clothes wiping the bloody gash with my hand. With a gasp, I looked up into piercing jade eyes that were studying me closely. She grabbed my arm and yanked me to my feet. She looked down and my eyes followed hers, down to the silver blade of my knife and my blood drenched fingertips. “Who are you?” She demanded, searching my face for an answer my lips would not give. She pulsed intensity, confidence, and beauty, everything I wished I was. I immediately envied her. Her spotless complexion, her brilliant smile, stunning pure jade eyes that made my entire stature mediocre in comparison. “Who are you?” She demanded again, her voice yanking me back to reality. “A- Aeron,” I stammered with the courage of a lion caught in a

YOUR INSPIRATION

BY CHRISTINA COLANGELO | TRINITY HIGH SCHOOL

YOUR INSPIRATION 48

poacher’s trap. “Aer-on,” she said stretching the word out as if to fit it to the elongation of her elegant lips. “Aeron,” she repeated, looking at me questioningly. “Yes?” I replied, wondering what about me was so deeply intriguing. “What are you doing down here?” She ask blatantly. I stared into her face; she was even more stunning up close. “Well . . . ?” She questioned after a few minutes, noticing my staring. “I um, well,” I stammered completely unsure of what to say to such a divine creature. She looked straight into my eyes and suddenly I couldn’t hold back the tears any longer. I took in a heavy breath.

dropping to a whisper, “who would throw away your life in a second because you’re not perfect. Poor me, no-one likes me. They are full of self-doubt and self-pity and can’t even see the beauty in living.” She cried. “There are people who would trade their life with you in a second, and do you want to know why,” she wailed. “Because IT’S NOT THAT BAD!” She roared. I stood there speechless. I was suddenly feeling overwhelming nausea caused by the world falling in around me or was it? Maybe I was wrong. People fight for their lives every day overcoming enormous obstacles to fight for

on sweatpants and headed for the stairs. When I got to the kitchen I kissed both my parents, something I had not done in a long time. I sat down at the kitchen table and began sifting through the newspaper. I glanced up long enough to see them exchange a smile and I knew in my heart that everything would be okay. I flipped a page and my heart skipped a beat. I read the headline of the article, “Delirium woman killed in car crash” which was accompanied by a picture of Aurora. I began feverishly reading. The article stated that Aurora had gotten into a head on car crash with a tractor trailer that had drifted

“I come down here sometimes when I need to get away. When I just want to escape the world, leave and never come back. Some days I just want to die, it’s not like I’d be missed.” Tears flooded my face like a river after a rainstorm. I was consumed in self-pity. She slowly examined me and then spoke, the most beautiful demon dragging me back to hell. “Why would you want to die?” She spat, allowing the words to tumble out in a sea of anger. “Why? Because no one loves me, no one ever has. I have no friends and I can never live up to the expectations of my parents. No matter what I do it’s never enough. So why should I live?” I screamed. “Life is precious and you want to throw it away?” She thundered back. “There are people who die every day from car crashes, cancer. People who are murdered and their lives are violently ripped away from them. Do you think those people wanted to die? No! They had the rest of their lives ahead of them.” She screamed and then paused for a moment. “Then there are people like you,” she said her voice

their life. Maybe my life really isn’t that bad. People would not fight for life if it was not worth living. For some, there is only one more hour, day, month, or year. Those people cherish the time that they are given because they realize that it is a gift that may run out and they don’t want to waste it. She glared awaiting a response. The words came out stronger than I had thought they would, “Maybe there are stupid people in the world who think life means nothing and they would throw it away in an instant. That used to be me but not anymore. I don’t actually want to die. I don’t want my life to end before it’s even started.” I finished prideful. She beamed and I asked her name. “Aurora,” she said. Aurora, I thought back to myself. “It was nice to meet you,” Aurora concluded with a swift smile on her lips, and a nod of the head. “You too,” I replied smiling. I left the tunnel that night and had felt better than I had in a long time. I went to bed and was at peace. When I woke up, my knee was throbbing from the large gash. I put

into her lane. She was pronounced dead at the scene at approximately 8:23 a.m. I started shaking. That’s impossible, I thought. I just saw her last night well after 9 p.m. I froze. That was why she had lectured me on the value of life, because she had hers torn from her that morning. I thought about the previous night and vowed that I would not take life for granted, because you never know when the second you’re living will be your last.

Don’t Go – Part Two

Did you miss Part One? Head over to andmagazineadvice.tumblr.com to read it! Interested in illustrating for this piece? Send an email to cglover@ jumpstreet.org.

I went home, eventually. When I got there, I just sat. “She’s gone…. She’s really gone. And she’s not coming back this time, is she?” I asked the question as if I was going to get an answer. K’Nyla was gone, and there was no changing that. She was buried in the dark, my heart along with her. So, the next day, I returned to school. I could tell people were looking at me as I walked the hallways alone. Almost like I could feel her walking along with me, I wanted to cry but I couldn’t. My pride wasn’t on the line, but the pain was just overwhelming. I walked to her locker, and smelt it. It seemed weird, but I could still smell her, and her sweet perfume. Or, maybe it was her gym clothes, still wanting to be worn. The days we had gym together, we would sit together. Just on the bench, leaving the world to live its life, as long as it let us live ours. We laughed together, and cried together, now, we died together. As the classes went about, my teachers avoided me. Leaving my work on a table, and patting my back. “I’m here if you want to talk, David.” My chemistry teacher, Mrs. Davis told me. I looked up at her, my green eyes, turning hazel from anger. Of course she would want to help. The only straight A student she has had in a long time, now quickly turning into a straight F student. I left her gaze and looked out the window. I wanted to leave, but here, in school, I could still feel K’Nyla. As if she was with me. Lunch eventually came around, and I sat alone. My usual friends all moved away. “When hazel, know your place.” They would always say when I’m upset. And thus, they did. No longer within the circle of wonder, but in the 50 feet love. I knew they cared, but for some reason I didn’t care. I wanted her, and no one else. I sat alone, wondering if things would be different if I walked out with her, or if we didn’t argue. Regardless, she was gone. Just up and out of our lives forever. As I sat, mourning the departed, a strange girl sat across from me, and smiled. “Hi.” She said. Her piercing blue eyes looking into my hazel ones. “I’m Xenilla, but you can call me Xen.” She reached out to me, hand steadily awaiting a hand in return. I looked at it, and grunted instead. I don’t know who this is, but I’m not in any mood to entertain. But instead of getting the idea, she stayed, and continued to smile. “What do you want, girl?” I asked, spitting the question out like poison. “I want to meet you. I’ve heard that you’re pretty cool, but I think that people had their facts tied. Or…” She moved in closer to me. “Is there

something bothering the infamous, David?” “Leo.” “I beg your pardon?” I looked over to her again. “My name is Leo. David is what the teachers here call me. Anyone that knew me knows my name is Leo. So the people who told you of me, know exactly that. They know of me, but they don’t know me.” I changed my glance to the cheerleaders across the cafeteria. Their giggling could be traced by satellite let alone by my glance. Ever since the beginning of Middle School up through this year, the first year of High School, the captain of their little clique has been hitting on me, and falsely giving out information to anyone with any interest in me. It was quite annoying if I do say so myself. When I met her, K’Nyla wanted to put her in her place. I never allowed her to do it. “What would it prove, Love?” I often told her when she gave Amber a glance of death. “I see.” She said. “Perhaps I should question her false assumptions. Do excuse me.” She quickly stood, giving me a quick smile and a bow before moving across the cafeteria to the cheerleaders.

YOUR INSPIRATION

BY ZAKIYA FOSTER | ACHIEVEMENT HOUSE CYBER CHARTER SCHOOL | AEGIS EDUCATION ENDEVOR PARTNERED RESOURCE CENTER

My Uncle, My Hero

YOUR INSPIRATION

BY BRIANA SPEARS | SCI TECH HIGH SCHOOL

If I had to think one person who has had the biggest impact on me, I would have to say it is my Uncle Marty. He is strong willed, determined, outgoing, and loving. He has been one of the major male role models in my life and he gives me hope for the future. Family is his top priority and he always goes above and beyond to show us how much he cares. The way that he takes care of my Grandmother especially brings joy to my heart. I can remember having a conversation with my grandmother about him as she said, “You know it almost brought tears to my eyes today talking to Marty. I was telling him he did not have to spend all that money on me. He said I do it because I want to. I know I don’t have to but you took care of me all my life. Now it’s my turn to take care of you. I was so shocked to hear him say that that I almost burst into tears.” I have learned so much from my uncle and there is so much more that I can learn from him. I did not get to see my Uncle as much as I would have liked growing up because of his job but I always had a strong relationship with him and I know he loves me. He has taught me about life, whether it is in a direct conversation or just the example he sets. I have always looked up to him and he always makes me feel special. As I am getting older and the context of our conversations has started to change, he listens to me and gives me great advice. I feel like I can go to him about practically anything without judgment or having to worry about him freaking out and telling my mom. The things we talk about stay between us and we have a bond like none other. I can trust him for sound advice whether it is what I want to hear or not; I know it will be the truth. I know that my life would not be the same without him in it and I am so glad that I have him because I do not know what I would do without him. He is my Uncle, my friend, one of my major inspirations, my hero, and I love him dearly.

HERO DAD BY KIMBERLY SHAFFER | AHCCS

you think of a hero, do you think of Spiderman or Batman or some made up character or do you think of a person someone close and oh so dear? Ask me the question above and I would probably say Scooby Doo and his whole gang. But tell me to honestly think about it and I would tell you my father. Scott Allen Shaffer. Yup that’s his name. What’s special about him? How about just everything! Sure he has his mistakes that turned into life lessons. Sure he has fallen, given up, and been a total jerk, but who hasn’t? My life would be so terrible without him; I seriously don’t know what I would do without him!

My dad has always been my best friend. When I was

younger, I doubted him as a father. I thought he loved my sister, Jaci, more because he always did stuff with her. But in reality, dad loved me just as much. I just didn’t find interest in the things he liked. That all ended when I was ten. When I turned ten I dropped the girly thing and did the tom boy

thing. My dad and I went fishing all the time (: This was something we did without Jaci. This made me so happy. Then, I got lazy and I stopped going fishing with him. I started to accuse him of loving Jaci more for a second time which ended with him crying. Yeah, now you’re probably thinking whoa she is a terrible daughter. No, I was just insecure. I figured that dad loved Jaci because I was the odd one out. But really he loved us equally. <3 Another reason my dad is my hero is because he makes me understand things and look at them in a different perspective. When my mom and I or Jaci and I would fight he would always say, “What exactly did you get from arguing with her? Take a gander at how they feel and how they have to look at

it.” No, this never got me to stop fighting with them but it made us fight less. My dad is a great guy. Sure he is over protective, a bit scary (looking xD). But he is just protecting me from the world not hiding it from me. He is just kinda like the bodyguard of the world for me. When someone hurts me he is there to protect me. When life gets too difficult he is there to block the things that I really don’t need. So next time someone asks you the question above, honestly think about it rather than naming the first fictional character that pops into your head.

YOUR INSPIRATION

So answer me this: when

An Interview with Artist, Sam White

YOUR INSPIRATION

BY YAASMEEN PIPER | CASA

AND: So tell me about your work White: I primarily do painting. I do some sculpture work. I’ve been creating artwork my entire life. It’s just how that art work really developed, you know? I started taking classes at the Paxton Art Associations when I was probably seven years old. I guess art for me… was just something I was good at. I like doing it and it got me attention from people. It’s like ‘oh good job on that piece’ or whatever. That was something that is cool to me. Every kid wants that. Every kid loves that feeling of ‘oh I’m good at something.’ That’s what is for me. But it wasn’t really a personal voice. It was kind of like ‘okay I can do this.’ This is what other people want me to paint so I’m going to paint that. It wasn’t until recently when I actually got introduced to oil painting- I had a background in acrylic growing up- that I really began to develop ideas and concepts that I can put behind my piece before I can create it. AND: Is oil painting your favorite right now? White: Yes, definitely. I like the way I can blend the paint and combine a couple of different styles. I can layer the paint, make it nice and thick or I can thin it out and make it nice and smooth like, almost with a watering. And I like that. It’s a very versatile medium. It’s expensive (laughs.) But it’s a great medium. I really enjoy working with it.

AND: I go to Casa. I heard you went there as well. White: Yes! AND: Was Ms.Kegal there? White: Yeah. I liked her. I think every teacher teaches you something different. She definitely taught me a lot about when you see this how can you map it out. How can I take this image, what I’m seeing in front of me and put it on to a piece of paper? CASA really taught me the fundamental basics I needed to take an item from prospective and putting it onto my paper, or my canvas, or whatever design I was working on. What really made me thrive in that environment was the fact that I was a 9th grader and I was able to connect with people who are in 10th, 11th and 12th grade. A lot of schools didn’t offer that and that really pushed me to be able to say “you can use these people to your advantage.” These people have more experience than you and what can you do to use these influences that these other, older students have to develop your work even further. I think Ms. Kegal helped push that for me which is awesome. AND: Do you plan on going back to visit? White: It’s hard because you have to email teachers and come and find the right time. And with all the security because of what’s been going on across the country. I would like to. I’d be kind of nice to just come back and see the

school and remember everything it taught me- the amazing things I’ve learned there. But, I’ve seen her at different art shows. It’s nice to talk to her and say “Hey, how’s that school going. What’s up with CASA?” That was a big part of me. Something that changed my life. AND: What school are you at now? White: I go to Central Dauphin High School AND: So you’re a senior? Do you plan on going to college? White: I do. I’ve been looking at the school of the Art Institution of Chicago and the Maryland Institute College of Art, or MICA for short. I’m kind of caught between the two. I actually did a precollege senior residency program over the summer at MICA, which was awesome. It was a great experience. That probably has been one of the most beneficial experiences, as far as my art goes, that I have ever had. That’s where I really developed my skills in oil painting. AND: Yes. You’re really good. White: Oh thank you! But it also gave me a flavor of an art school and also kind of taught me what I want to look for in an art school. Is Baltimore the place I really want to be, or is there some place else? These are kind of the things I’m thinking about right now because location is really important when you are an artist. You need to be somewhere that inspires you and you have resources, and you have people that support you and your work in order to be successful.

White: Yeah. It’s great. I love the shows that they do there. Those were the most recent ones. Back in March I did have an independent show at the LGBT Center which was awesome. AND: Do you have a favorite thing to paint? White: Probably people. I know that’s kind of generic, but I think there’s a lot that you can really show just by someone’s body position, emotions on their face, or the colors that you use. That’s really awesome how you can like change things about what you initially see and alter them so you can portray something that you really can’t say with words. AND: Do you make up people in your head or are they actual people? White: I usually try to find reference images because I really can’t do the makeup someone in your head thing. Most of my images I try to take on my own but, some of them you just can’t get on your own. Like a lung, you can’t really get that on your own. I try to find people or find models, or just use my friends to help me create this idea in my head. AND: What piece are you working on now? White: Right now, I’m actually in the process of working on two series. One of which is kind of a personal series. It’s me in a bathtub, and the idea is the feeling of being trapped, almost isolated in water. The idea was to be trapped in a place that you thought was inviting and it kind of turned cold. It’s one of the things I’ve learned over this past year is to take whatever it is I’m feeling and put it into a piece. In this instance it’s me and it’s a way of expressing my feelings and getting the emotions that I’m feeling out and putting it into a piece. There is a series that I’m working on that is similar when it comes to the whole bathtub idea. I had seen some images that inspired me to create kind of the same idea of being trapped and isolated. Right now I’m formulating a couple different pieces that are this girl in this bathtub in a couple different outfits because I wanted to show being prepared for a couple different situations. For instance she has this winter coat and she’s floating in the bathtub. It’s this preparation for what could be. With the water, especially in the bathroom shower, it’s so warm, it’s so inviting, it feels so nice and it does but, especially in the bath that water gets colder and colder. That’s what I really wanted to portray through the series.

Sometimes you’re in this environment or in these social situations where everything is so warm and inviting but eventually they’ll turn cold. In contrast to that there is also a girl who’s wearing very little and she’s not prepared and vulnerable. That’s kind of the stuff I want to say through my art. I don’t want to necessarily spoon feed the audience. I want something people can connect with and people can really think ‘how does this affect me, how does this make me feel.’ Or people can connect and say “I know what that’s like.” That’s what I really think my art is evolving into. I can say something and people can kind of empathize with it because that becomes personal to them and it’s me saying something for them. AND: What else do you do, aside from painting? Any hobbies? White: I’m very social (laughs.) I love hanging with my friends, I love going out and meeting new people. I do some after school activities. I’m a part of the GSA. I’m in Youth and Government. I was on the NexGen Youth Management team but that obviously came to an end. I swim for Central Dauphin High school (laughs) Yeah, that’s something I actually do. It takes a situation like this to realize art consumes my life so much. But yeah, that’s kind of what I do. A lot of what I do is very social. I like being with people, and meeting new people. I love being with friends and family. I like the environment of being surrounded by people who care about you. I think that’s really important when you’re creating art- that comfort and that support. It kind of pushes you to say “okay I have this group of people that support me. Let me push myself even if it’s out of your comfort zone. I’ll always have people to fall back on.” AND: Is your family your inspiration? White: Sometimes. I have kind of an interesting family situation. They’ve inspired a couple pieces but it’s just nice to know that they’re there. My family’s always stood behind me one hundred percent. Especially my mom. She’s always been there for me and I know that whenever I create something she’ll always be the one to tell me “this is great,” and “I’m proud of you.” She’s always going to be there to support my work.

YOUR INSPIRATION

So that’s kind of what I’m caught between. These are two different places and I’m trying to decide which is really going to be the best fit for me. AND: Who’s your favorite artist? White: (Sighs) Oh my gosh, that’s difficult. I think it depends on the medium. AND: You can say your top three if you want to. Make it a little easier. White: Okay, umm. One of the artist that I’m really inspired by right now is Daniel Barkley. He paints these figures and I think they’re typically teenage boys. His painting style and his use of color- he uses these kind of pale figures and then uses these pops of color. I know he did an entire series on these boys being covered in paint. That’s amazing to me how he can use these pops of color and display this kind of wetness of the paint and these emotions of these boys and these feelings of isolation in a piece. That’s really inspiring to me. Also a series recently that I’m excited about is by a girl named Samantha French. She did a whole series of underwater things. It’s just people in a pool but the way that she blocks the color and all the color she’s able to tie into this one piece and you can still recognize that, oh my gosh this is water. It’s amazing to me because water is such a difficult thing to paint in the first place, and to be able to bring all these colors you may not necessarily see in an image is amazing to me. I’m also inspired by the work of Jenny Sivil. She is, I believe, a British painter. She works very large scale, but there is something about the way she paints her figures that kind of have this feeling of isolation. It’s this kind of discomfort- it’s up close and personal to the viewer. I think it’s an amazing quality to be able to bring into your work. AND: What art shows have you been to recently? White: Actually, right now I have a piece in the show at the LGBT Center on Third Street. It’s called You Look Marvelous (laughs.) Yeah. It’s all about fears and self-image. I created a piece for that on a mirror that I found at the thrift store. I redecorated it and painted it. I was in NexGen Youth Arts Festival. I’m sure you’re familiar with that because of CASA. I had a piece there. I had two pieces in the Year in Review show at the LGBT Center. As you can tell I’m a regular at the Center which is awesome. AND: Yeah, I should go check it out.

The Stranger in the Hospital Bed BY JADA BAITY | SUSQUEHANNA TOWNSHIP HIGH SCHOOL

YOUR INSPIRATION

My mother used to constantly talk about things that go bump in the night. It was as if she was trying to keep away her inner demons by talking to me about mythical things that could only hurt her in the outside world. All throughout her stay in the hospital I would sit beside her, eating whatever food she left me on her lunch tray, and listen to stories about ghosts and goblins and vampires. But she never talked about how she would sometimes scream at the top of her lungs for hours on end in the middle of the night and have to be tranquilized by one of the nurses working the night shift. She would go on and on about witches and warlocks and werewolves. But she would never tell me why she couldn’t come home to tuck me in and read me a bedtime story. I would try to tell her about the things that happened at home. Like how daddy had found a new friend

named Ms. Lori who would sleep over and then stay to eat dinner with us. I tried to tell her about how my teacher taught

me to write my name in cursive. And I never stopped trying to explain to her about how I know vampires aren’t real anymore because my friend Janessa told me so. But she would always ignore whatever I had to say and continue to ramble

on and on and on about her beloved scary things. One day, I’d had enough and I screamed at her to please stop because she was scaring me. But instead of stopping, she simply paused mid-sentence and stared at the tiled floor for what seemed like hours and then continued right on with her story. I started to cry and left her side to go home to daddy. I told him I never wanted to go back there again and he told me that I didn’t have to. I never went to see my mom again. I am 18 years old and I have a mother that’s crazy in the head and probably doesn’t even know that I exist anymore. My very first boyfriend that

I had at 16 asked me why I never introduced her to him. I would always avoid the subject simply because I didn’t want to have to talk to him about my mother’s mental instability and scary ghost stories. But I did explain to him what she was like one day. I remembered that she had long golden hair that shimmered even when there was no light shining on it… at least that’s what I thought. I told him that she had long, bony fingers that were cold to the touch… and so I never touched her. I told him that she was constantly bent over, always looking at the ground and never looking up at me… and that’s why I never knew the color of her eyes. And I told him that she scared me but never failed to fascinate me and that’s why I kept coming back to her. He then asked me if I loved her. And I remember tearing up and saying, “I don’t know.” Even at 18 years old, I still don’t know if I ever really loved my mother like I love my dad and Ms. Lori or if she loved me for that matter. To this day, I don’t know what was wrong with her and why she never got better. I dream about her sometimes but I never dream of her as being the cold and decrepit creature from my childhood. Instead she is warm and rosy and beautiful; always smiling, always laughing, and never uttering a single ghost story. And above all, she loves me. She loves me so very much and could never imagine life without me. But then, I always wake up.

5 Beautiful Friends

YOUR INSPIRATION

BY KEELY FICKAU | CASA

BROKEN BY CARLY PEREZ | RED LAND HIGH SCHOOL

We used to know this beautiful, smiling girl. But as she grew, her life started to swirl. As time passed, she was lead down the wrong path. If you said one word, you would hear her wrath. Months went by and she became bone thin. That smile now a disgusting grin. Although she is young, she looks much older. Every puff and sniff makes her heart colder. Her family just wants back their loving daughter. She is so lost they can’t seem to spot her. The once blank slate, is now covered in black ink. You might look again, you may even blink. The eyes that were once a pretty hazel, Are now under critical appraisal. On the inside she is breaking down. She feels almost as if she could drown. She doesn’t take notice to who she is hurting. This has become quite concerning. Her clothes do not cover her inked skin. Everyone hopes there is still light within. This fragile girl has scars she will never show. She wishes to be a survivor, you know.

LOST BY CHRISTINA COLANGELO | TRINITY HIGH SCHOOL

Where was she?

YOUR INSPIRATION

Why had she left me?

I looked around, It was bright beautiful and bountiful. There were glittering and colorful snakes that slithered their way throughout the park. There were clowns, their creepy cheer that seemed to swallow me. Where was she? I swerve through the crowded park. Breathe heavy and quick. I came upon a game, two dollars and pick a duck to win a prize every time, anything you want, I promise. I won off the top shelf, but wait … you said anything I wanted and I want her. I started to cry and the worker looked annoyed. “Stop crying and go back to your mother” he sneered. “I can’t.” I wailed through sobs to a thousand voices that were not listening.

PC OO ER TN RE YR SCARS

Scars tell you who you are But you find them a mockery They tell a story of pain and victory It was a lesson well learned But each scar you earned Sometimes by mistakes, others on purpose A permanent pain Or a permanent lesson But yet you still question Why do I have them? Look at those scars, they tell your tale Both big and small A journey from heaven to hell Some by play Some by a bad day You are strong, your scars say so You battled emotions And physical pain Yet you think theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re a waste You wish to erase? I know some may be small and a pain Others might be big and filled with rage Some make you proud to own them Some remind you of the hurt But remember you are stronger Than what tried to destroy you Thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s why scars exist to remind you That nothing stands in your way So go ahead and cast the pain away Make those scars light and worry free For scars are simple reminders that life is not fun But yet you survived and the war has been won.

YOUR INSPIRATION

BY CHEYANNE ENTICHKO | AGORA CYBER CHARTER SCHOOL

LIVING WHILE DYING

YOUR INSPIRATION

BY CHRISTINA COLANGELO | TRINITY HIGH SCHOOL

She ran through the meadow like a deer fleeing the hunter, pale skin washed in the moonlight. Just a little farther, she thought, lungs puffing emptiness and sorrows that fought to consume her. She reached into her Gucci handbag and felt around trying to identify the smooth glass that would be her savior. Lighter, no. Lipliner, no. Without losing a step she sped into the night searching her inventory. It’s not like today wasn’t bad enough, now she couldn’t find her flask. It was all his fault, her eyes threatening to allow the storm to rage again. Stop, she thought. No. She reached the clearing without stopping and slowed with the realization of her grasp wrapping her acrylics around its neck in familiar triumph. Yes! She screamed and took a long gulp. Only after her spastic celebration did she realize someone else was in the clearing and he had been watching her the whole time. Who was this man in the woods and why was he watching her? Adrenaline pumped icily through her veins, a panic that left her in breathless awe. She took another chug while a Cheshire cat grin crept across her face. Maybe he would give her what she really wanted. He could be her dark angel. He could end her. He stepped into the brush, eyes locked on hers, beckoning her to follow. She took a shaky breath. Should she follow him? Her senses called it madness and her reason whispered, Is it safe? She cackled and the forest became fuzzy. Had danger ever stopped her before? Never. She was hesitant but could not shake the indescribable feeling that she knew him. How did he know she would come? And why was he waiting for her? How long had he been watching her? Her head pounded from the questions she could not answer. She had to find out. She had to follow him. She swayed and took another swig. One to clear my head she reasoned. By now he was gone, ducked in the tree line waiting for her. Why not she thought and with three strides of false confidence she had reached the familiar pines. Her fingers traced the bark as she meandered through the forest. She ventured further, curious of what she would find ahead. The woods seemed to be beckoning her like she was being pulled by a rope anchored in her soul. She admired the full moon and the delicate way the stars hung in balance. Everything seemed to be at peace here and she felt as though she found where she belonged. The serenity was interrupted by cracking twigs and the rustling of leaves falling, something stumbling or someone. A brisk wind swirled around her, reminding her it was February in New York but that’s not why she was shivering. His breath was hot on the back of her neck as he whispered “don’t move.” Her body froze as he began to stroke the pale slits that snaked up her arm. “You really are beautiful” he began to murmur sliding the satin off her shoulder. “But you hate it all don’t you? You hate yourself.” She gasped as he grabbed her waist, her heart pounded in a frenzy of regret. Blackness swirled all around her and her knees began to buckle. Damn! How could she have been so stupid? She didn’t know this man and she had followed him. She was unarmed, alone and drunk. Her breath came out in short puffs as panic took over. “Don’t fret my darling,” he chuckled, “We’re almost there. Now walk.” He whispered in her ear. “I will be right behind you. Watching.” He released her from his grasp. Tears streaked down her face as she took an unsteady step forward. Then another. She marched on through the twilight, nerves frayed unwilling to think about what he would do to her when they reached their destination. After what seemed like eternity his voice shattered the silence. “A few steps farther and then you’ll see, the reason that you don’t want to end up like me.” His rhyme made her shutter. What did he mean like him? She had to get out of here! She realized he was going to kill her and began to sob. “Keep going,” his voice like her fear cutting deeper and deeper. She stumbled and fell forward. Blackness consumed her as she rolled over and vomited. Her body shook as she waited for his hands to finish her but they did not come. “Look up,” his voice boomed. She rolled to her back and reluctantly opened her eyes. Her mouth dropped in horror as she let out a blood curdling screech. A girl was hanging limply from the branch above her. Her blood stained golden locks hung from her frail face. Vomit burned her throat and she turned over to let the toxin out. Over the wailing wind she heard the man’s voice. “It’s you,” he cried. Tears and blackness overwhelmed her vision as she looked back up at the figure. It was her, dead, hanging from the branch. She began to wail. This is not what she wanted. She did not want to die! Well she had, but not anymore. “Please,” she stood up searching for the watching man. “If you let me live I swear I will be different. I will quit drinking. I will quit smoking. I will quit cutting. And I will be better person. I will help others. I will love my life. Live every moment of it. Please just let me live..” She pleaded into the blackness. The night was silent. Her eyes probed the brush frantically, where is he? She turned back to the tree and searched for the girl she never wanted to become. But she was gone and so was the rope. All that left was the broad tree with a three lined verse carved into the trunk, ‘Dying is easy, living is hard, Accept the challenge.’ “I will,” she whispered.

AND: What is Bipolar Disorder? Evinczik: Bipolar disorder is a brain disorder that causes unusual shifts in mood and energy and affects your ability to carry out day-to-day tasks. AND: What are the symptoms? Evinczik: Manic Episode: A state of being overly energetic and overexcited for a period lasting more than 4 consecutive days. Depressive Episode: A period of being extremely sad with the feeling of hopelessness and guilt. Also has diminished interest or pleasure in all or almost all activities, changes in body weight, insomnia or hypersomnia nearly every day. In adolescents and children, the mood can appear irritable instead of depressed. Extreme changes in energy and activity Being unable to function normally at school or work or social situations AND: How do you diagnose someone with Bipolar disorder? Evinczik: Seek assistance from a mental health professional, a psychologist or a psychologist. They will use the criteria from the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual, 5th edition to determine if you meet the definition of an individual who has Bipolar and/or Related Disorders.

AND: How can I help myself if I have Bipolar disorder? Evinczik: It may be hard to take the first step to getting treatment but here are some things you can do. Talk to your doctor. They can provide you with treatment options. Start keeping a regular routine Try to get enough sleep Stay on your medication! Learn to recognized your signs, symptoms and triggers Special thanks to Julie Evinczik, School Psychologist, for her assistance with Your Mental Health!

YOUR MENTAL HEALTH

AND: What other illnesses can result from Bipolar disorder? Evinczik: Substance abuse is very common with any disorder. Most people try to treat their symptoms with alcohol and drugs. However, substance abuse prolongs the symptoms. Also a person with Bipolar disorder may experience Anxiety Disorder and Depression. Gambling problems, compulsive shopping, promiscuity and related STDs also can occur as a result of Bipolar Disorder symptomology.

YOUR MENTAL HEALTH

MEET THE STAFF

Name: Yaasmeen Piper, Writer Age: 17 School: Capital Area School for the Arts Yaasmeen loves Tumblr, author John Green, & to make collages. She wants to travel the world and would like to live in England or New York City.

Name: Kimberly Shaffer, Writer Age: 17 School: Achievement House Cyber Charter School Kim is a confident procrastinator who loves to cook & sing. Kim’s greatest talent is making a paycheck disappear in seconds!

Name: Amanda Pearson, Writer Age: 17 School: Boiling Springs High School Amanda loves fashion, cats, snow boards in her spare time and has a shoe addiction.

YOUR MEET SCORE THE STAFF

Name: Elizabeth Royer, Writer Age: 18 School: Mechanicsburg Area Senior High School Elizabeth plays the viola, adores vintage dresses, hopes to meet Alice Walker someday, she’d like to present a TED talk one day and thinks that Coke should bring back glass bottles.

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Name: Keely Fickau, Writer Age: 18 School: Capital Area School for the Arts Keely loves the arts, likes to eat food, is pretty happy, hopes to attend MMC in the fall and sleeps with her eyes open.

Name: Cara Glynn, Writer Age: 18 School: Cedar Cliff High School Cara is a tech nerd who is pro Apple products! She’s traveled to Ireland, wants to go to Australia someday and has Channing Tatum’s autograph.

Name: Tess Berger, Writer Age: 17 School: Cedar Cliff High School Tess’s dream is to be Editor-inChief at Vogue. She likes Breaking Bad & coaching gymnastics. It is highly likely that she has an online shopping addiction. Oh, and she hates mashed potatoes, despite loving potatoes in general.

Name: Carly Perez, Writer Age: 17 School: Red Land High School Carly is very outgoing, is obsessed with music, loves to eat healthy, enjoys writing about her personal experiences and she is a gymnast.

Name: Sarah Adamou, Writer Age: 18 School: Harrisburg High School Sarah is Nigerian. She moved to the U.S. when she was 7. She enjoys meeting new people, listening to music, dancing, reading and being challenged!

Name: Jada Baity, Writer Age: 16 School: Susquehanna Township High School Jada loves being in musicals, singing and dancing, reading, the beach, trying new foods and watching makeup tutorials on YouTube.

MEET THE STAFF

Name: Jillian Procope, Writer Age: 18 School: Susquehanna Township High School Jillian is the ultimate Disney fan, an avid reader, attends concerts like it’s her job, travels the world and is a theater nerd.

Name: Briana Spears, Writer Age: 17 School: Sci Tech High School Briana is a 4’10” Christian who has 13 siblings and plays cymbals for the Marching Cougars.

Name: Joe Binder, Photographer Age: 16 School: Trinity High School Joe, part Irish, loves photography, baseball, and Science. He’s also a Chicago White Sox fan, what more can you want?

THIS COULD BE YOU!

Name: Mariesa Beneventano, Photographer Age: 16 School: Central Dauphin High School Mariesa loves photography. She plays the flute and the piano, owns two hermit crabs, loves the color purple and was adopted from Guatemala.

MEET THE STAFF

Name: ? Age: ? School: ? About: ?

Name: Lindsey Shuey, Photographer Age: 17 School: Central Dauphin High School Lindsey loves birds, abandoned buildings, horror movies, watercolors and video games. If you’re up for some GTA V, she’s your gal… Name: Savanna Lenker, Photographer Age: 16 School: Cedar Cliff High School Savanna plays field hockey, runs track, sings in school musicals and hopes to travel the world as a photojournalist.