April 2016 Spotlight Print Issue

Southern Lehigh High School 5800 Main Street, Center Valley, PA 18034 Volume 59 Issue 5

Solehi Presents “Carousel�

Turn to Pages 2 and 3 for more.

Photo Credit: Maggie Moerder

In this

Issue:

Lights, Camera, Fashion! View photos from the Fashion Show on pages 8 and 9.

Learn the truth about Democratic Socialism on pages 10 and 11.

My Strange Addiction: Teacher Addition! Head to the back page for more.

Page 2

The Spotlight

News

The symposium, which was held in the gym and cafeteria, consisted of an art exhibit, science fair, forensics demonstration, and more. Photo credit: Caitlin Roth

Students Showcase Success at Symposium

by Bridgette Lang

On February 3, over 350 sturesearch, performed their experiLehigh displayed their work in the dents participated in the second ment, and put together their tricafeteria. Earlier in the year, these annual Southern Lehigh High School folds. students submitted their work to Symposium to present their acaThe majority of students conbe critiqued by judges af�iliated demic or art projects to their peers, ducted their projects based on prob- with The Alliance for Young Artists community, and judges. The symlems and questions they encoun& Writers. Many of them had won tered in their day-to-day lives.

Gold Keys, Silver Keys, or Honorable posium has become Solehi’s largest academic school-wide event.

Nearly every grade level and science class, including Applied Biology, Honors Biology, Honors Chemistry, Forensics, Honors Anatomy and Physiology, AP Environmental Science, Zoology, and more, gathered in the cafeteria and gym to display science experiments they had conducted over the year.

A total of 80 students chose to have their projects judged by members of the community. Though the judges held various degrees, they all volunteered to show their dedication for learning. The students were judged using criteria from a rubric created speci�ically for the sympoTwo students proudly pose with their science fair posters. Photo credit: Caitlin Roth sium.

The students who presented “Seeing the effects of pollution Mentions for the Scholastic Awards, their science projects were prompt- in a creek that I grew up walking including freshman Sophia Buoned to complete four parts toward by made me realize the necessity of anno, sophomore Maggie Moerder, their �inal grade in the start of demonstrating the effects of pollujuniors Lexi Brown and Caitlin Roth, October. The �irst part consisted of tion in water,” senior Naomi Li said. and seniors Jordan Munoz, Pete deciding what topic they wanted to In addition, talented artists Naktin, Alec Naktin, and Mason Pelstudy. Following that, they gathered and photographers from Southern legrini.

The Symposium successfully exhibited the labor from the hardworking students and staff, but the kids, teachers, and everyone in between have their suggestions for future years.

Assistant principal Mrs. Beth Guarriello wants to kick up the quality of the work “another notch.”

This can be done by encouraging the student to raise the standard by offering even more instruction and teaching at all grade levels.

The most widespread concern was about the judging process.

“The best part was seeing all the different projects and my classmates’ hard work, but I had to wait a long time to get judged,” freshman Alex Becker said. “Some of the judges took more time to evaluate the students’ projects than expected.”

As for next year, science teacher Mrs. Patricia Smiley suggests that students could put all their work in a portfolio; this way they could feel more accomplished and proud of the experiment they performed.

This event has helped to link the school to the community, and we can only expect it to become better as the years progress.

Southern Lehigh SAT Scores Rank Top 50

by Alex Baca

The Standardized Aptitude Test (SAT) is test that students who plan on going to a four-year university straight out of high school tend to worry about. Southern Lehigh High School was recently ranked 35th in the state in SAT scores with an average score of 1640, tying with two other schools, Parkland High School in South Whitehall Township, and Abington Heights High School near Scranton.

“I was honored for our school to appear on this list,” principal Mrs. Christine Siegfried said. “I am proud of our teachers and students for their hard work. This is just one more way that Southern Lehigh demonstrates academic excellence!”

Many college admissions counselors use these tests to determine if a student is ready for college. The SAT is one of the factors that determines whether or not a college will accept the

student.

“I think that when you’re looking at the old SAT, and some of the things we’ve been doing in our math courses at Southern Lehigh, it has given students an edge when they go in to take the test,” math teacher Mr. Ryan Haupt said. “We integrate algebra and geometry in many of our courses so students are used to seeing this and it is familiar to them when they face the SAT.” Saucon Valley, located in Lower Saucon Township, was ranked 45th with an average score of 1627. They tied with Central Bucks West High School, near Doylestown, and Cumberland Valley High School, near Harrisburg.

“I feel as though, because we are such a privileged school, we are able to provide our students with the resources necessary for this achievement,” junior Georgian Fan said. “Personally, to

be a part of this achievement, I feel proud that our school was able to accomplish something like this.”

Southern Lehigh was ranked in the top 50 schools of the state. Photo credit: wikipedia.com

April 2016

News

Page 3

Animal Rights Activists Activate Fundraiser

by Sarah Trebicka

Starting the week of April 11, after nearly a year of planning and brainstorming, the Animal Rights Activists (ARA) will be running their �irst fundraiser to raise money for local organization Logan’s Heroes.

“Logan’s Heroes is a brand new foundation in [the] Lehigh Valley. They are providing foster homes for shelter animals, they’re in the process of getting their own shelter, and they also have a program where they train [service] dogs for veterans with PTSD,” ARA president Ise Oberlender said. “I hope to raise money for Logan’s Heroes, help them with their cause, spread awareness to the school, and have a great, awesome fundraiser.”

According to their website, Logan’s Heroes Animal Rescue was formed in December of 2014 speci�ically to honor a German Shepherd puppy, Logan, who suffered with a congenital defect that rendered him unable to swallow properly. Since then, the organization has gained more and more volunteers, and now aims to rescue any and all animals in need.

“The money collected will go towards resources to keep the animals in their care healthy and safe,” ARA fundraising director Emily Oberlender said.

Inspired by the effort of the National Honor Society to get students involved with Pennies for Patients, the ARA plans to use a humorous teacher incentive to motivate students and faculty to contribute to the cause.

They will begin the fundraiser by giving each classroom a collection jar, and three random classrooms will be given a photo of one of Logan’s Heroes service-puppies-in-training on their doors. Members of the classroom will be allowed one day to raise a small amount of money. If they meet the requirement, they may put the picture on another classroom’s door.

“I am so excited for our fundraiser, because we’re �inally going to be able to do our part for the animal population of the Lehigh Valley,” ARA social media director Sean Duane said.

As the fundraiser progresses, the increments will slowly grow larger and larger. At the end of the week, the three teachers who have a puppy on their door will be encouraged to wear funny animal ears on the Monday of the next week.

The club also plans to collect during lunches for any passionate students interested in donating.

“We’re using the teacher incentive by having the animal ears, and we’re also going to hope

Logan’s Heroes has many programs to help the community, such as their PAWS program which trains dogs to help veterans with PTSD. Photo credit: Logan’s Heroes

that students contribute the money due to sympathy when they see how cute the dogs are,” Emily Oberlender said. “Who doesn’t want to donate money to cute dogs?”

For more information on Logan’s Heroes, feel free to visit their website at http://lharinc.org/.

‘Carousel’ Spins onto Southern Lehigh Stage

by Talia Trackim

With intricate dance sequences and a tragic storyline, this year’s spring musical “Carousel” is unlike any done before. Cited by TIME Magazine as the “Best Musical of the 20th Century,” it will premiere on April 7 and last until April 10. “‘Carousel’ is a classic,” music teacher and director Mr. Matthew Wehr said. “I chose ‘Carousel’ because it is a favorite of mine, and I have been looking for the right cast to do it with for several years. After enjoying ‘Sound of Music’ last fall, I felt we should stay in that big, old, classic style.”

“Carousel” follows the story of Julie Jordan, a millworker in the late 1800s, and her love for a carousel barker named Billy Bigelow.

When the couple gets married, they �ind themselves both unemployed with a baby on the way. In order to

provide for his family, Billy resorts to crime and violence, and his actions lead the family into a downward spiral of tragedy and loss.

Julie Jordan is played by junior Caleigh Schmidt, accompanied by senior Chris Smith as Billy Bigelow. “[My part has] challenged me to �ind a depth of character in myself, because Julie needs such a range of emotions,” Schmidt said.

“It’s a lot of �lipping between happy and sad, so that’s been challenging.”

The musical also features Julie’s best friend Carrie Pipperidge, played by junior Lexi Brown, and her lover Enoch Snow, played by senior Luke Simons. Junior Giuliana Augello plays Nettie Fowler and senior Gavan Sullivan plays Jigger Craigin. “[Enoch is] a witty guy, [he’s] pretty weird,” Simons said. “Hopefully the audi-

The show will start April 7 and last until the 11. Photo credit: Maggie Moerder

The actors and actresses in the musical must be triple threats since all the characters act, sing, and dance at different points throughout the show. Photo credit: Maggie Moerder

ence will like me, I can make them laugh. Near the end of the show I do get stricter and take pride in all nine children that I have.”

While recent Southern Lehigh musicals such as, “42nd Street,” “Shrek,” and “The Drowsy Chaperone” have been lighthearted and comedic, “Carousel” has much darker and deeper undertones and plays with the themes of death, suicide, and redemption.

“In some ways it is quite similar and in many ways quite different,” Mr. Wehr said. “Carousel is a deceptively large show. Despite its age, written in 1943, it is a very complicated show.”

In addition to the cast and crew, “Carousel” will be

featuring a full pit orchestra with 40 student members and only seven adults.

“In my opinion, this show has the most beautiful �lowing melodies in the pit orchestra,” Simons said, “which I love because being a musician by trade it’s enjoyable by that respect.”

The set will also include a life-size, mobile Carousel that the characters can ride on.

“It’s incredible when it comes out onstage and it starts spinning,” Schmidt said. “It’s like magic.”

The cast and crew of “Carousel” are looking forward to show-week and showcasing all of their hard work.

“Being my �inal show,

it’s just a sentimental show being able to do with Chris, Lexi, Caleigh and everyone,” Simons said. “I’m really excited to be able to give the audience life and enjoyment.”

The lead is played by junior Caleigh Schmidt. Photo Credit: Maggie Moerder

Page 4 Features

The Spotlight

Stay Gold, Mrs. Hinton, Stay Gold

by Emily Oberlender

S.E. Hinton and her late husband, Dr. Robert W. Hinton, secretly eloped. Later, they had a second wedding with both their families in attendance. The high school sweethearts were married for 57 years. Photo credit: S.E. Hinton

Whether you grew up in Southern Lehigh or are new this year, odds are you have seen the legendary substitute at least once. This smiling face belongs to Mrs. Sylvia E. Hinton, who has been working at the district for four decades. Mrs. Hinton can be spotted substitute teaching many days each week. Despite her frequent appearances at Southern Lehigh, a majority of students do not know much about her.

Mrs. Hinton, who claims she has only been called “S.E. Hinton” by Southern Lehigh students, is the only substitute in the district surrounded by a shroud of mystery. Not many can say they have knowledge about her life outside of the school’s walls. Many students question if she is the famous author credited with writing “The Outsiders.” To these students, Mrs. Hinton has a simple response.

“I tell them, ‘Look it up.’ If they want to know, they can look it up,” she said. “They normally �igure it out by the time they are seniors.”

Mrs. Hinton is also well known for having been a part of the Southern Lehigh community for years. She has substituted for hundreds of teachers

and met thousands of students. Because of this, students tend to wonder about her age. Their curiosity prompts no answer.

“It’s a secret,” Mrs. Hinton said. “Not even the staff knows, and I won’t tell.”

Despite keeping her age and identity a secret, Mrs. Hinton did reveal personal information about her life breeding golden retriever puppies. For roughly 15 years, Mrs. Hinton and her late husband have been successfully breeding litters of goldens.

“There’s a waiting list for the dogs,” she said.

Mrs. Hinton breeds her well known pups with the help of her veterinarian daughter, Dr. Amy Hinton. In fact, her daughter is the reason she got into the business.

“Clients of my daughter saw her golden retriever, and someone suggested ‘why don’t you breed her,’” Mrs. Hinton said. “My daughter asked if we wanted to breed, too. We said yes.”

According to Mrs. Hinton, who has a pregnant retriever, another litter of puppies is expected to arrive in late April. To ensure her purebred goldens are born healthy and beautiful, Mrs. Hinton’s daughter follows strict policies when breeding her dogs.

“No breeding before they’re two,” she said, “and we have never interbred.”

Regarding Mrs. Hinton’s substitute teaching career, she also has a set of values.

“I do not treat it as a babysitting job,” she said, “and I believe that not all learning will come from between the covers of a book.”

Whether you look at Mrs. Hinton as a sub, a dog breeder, or a possible award-winning author, know that she comes to Southern Lehigh with a passion for students and teaching.

“I hope I make a positive difference in at least one student’s life every time I substitute,” Mrs. Hinton said. “If I get more than one, I feel blessed.”

For one thing, Mrs. Hinton suggests that students check out “Theme from Mahogany.”

“The lyrics are thought provoking,” she said. “Give them a listen.”

As for advice, Mrs. Hinton has a few wise words to live by.

“Remember that your attitude will either make you or break you,” she said, “and you are always the only one in charge of this responsibility.”

Novak Loves to Bring on The Pain(tball)

by Townsend Colley

People may play sports for a variety of different reasons, whether for fun or competition.

Teamwork, a sense of family, and pure adrenaline are junior Stan Novak’s reasons for playing paintball.

“My favorite memory is any tournament probably because it’s just being there with your team, just in the moment, the emotions going on,” Novak said. “It’s amazing. I don’t feel that anywhere else with any other sport.”

Paintball is a team sport where two or more teams compete in large or small areas. The goal of the sport is to use a gun to shoot pellets full of paint at the opposing team. If you’re hit, then you’re out until either the next round, or in some cases you can respawn. The game can take on simple modes such as a death match, or a game of strategically-based capture the �lag, among other styles.

Novak is one of the few paintballers at Southern Lehigh. From the moment he began playing, he fell in love with the sport due to the family atmosphere provided by the welcoming paintball community.

“Once you start playing for a while it becomes a really nice sport because it’s friendly, even though you [may] think it’s dangerous, but it’s really safe,” Novak said.

This sport is much more than a simple hobby.

While many people may just go into the woods and blast some paint with their friends, there is also a much more competitive side. Paintball has tournaments, some of which may reenact a certain historic battle, or participants may play each other in speci�ic game modes.

One of the most popular tournament game modes is known as speedball. Speedball is a �ive on �ive, adrenaline-fueled battle within a turf playing surface with in�latable “bunkers” that may be used for cover.

Paintball even consists of pro leagues and a ranking system similar to that of many other sports. Levels range from D5 to D1 and then professional.

However, for Novak paintball is much more than a sport. It’s a family. A family made of people from all walks of life from dads to sons to college dropouts, and this he believes is part of what makes the sport truly special.

“No one’s left out,” he said. “Everyone’s a family to each other, and you just need to be a good communicator, working with each other and just accepting that people are gonna mess up, and help everyone out.”

While Novak admits that the sport can become expensive, it is a sport you can keep

with you for life, unlike football or other sports.

Whether you just want to go out for the day or pick it up as a competitive sport, the community will accept you with open arms.

“If you can get into it they become like family, and you just mess around with each other,” Novak said. “And you can go for the weekend and it’s a nice getaway from stuff.”

Stan Novak appreciates the friendly community of Paintball. Photo credit: Caitlin Roth

Web Exclusives: “Rugby: A New Experience in Sportsmanship” on the web with the QR code on the left and “Speaking About Speech and Debate...” on the web with the QR code on the right

Opinion

April 2016

Page 5

Remember, It’s a Culture, Not a Costume

by Sarah Trebicka

Bindis categorized as “Halloween items.”

Blackface. Hijabs donned by non-Muslims for fun. False Native American war bonnets sported at costume parties. All of these are distasteful examples of cultural appropriation.

Cultural appropriation is de�ined as “taking intellectual property, traditional knowledge, cultural expressions, or artifacts from someone else’s culture without permission.” It may encompass adopting sacred relics as casual accessories, dressing up as an ethnic stereotype, or somehow trivializing cultural elements by neglecting to take the time to learn and appreciate the origin and/or signi�icance. It characteristically occurs when styles or mannerisms that normally induce racist generalizations or ignorant stereotypes are esteemed when adopted by privileged groups.

In an ideal world, it should appear crystal clear to anyone that stealing a culture for one’s own personal aesthetic, belittling cultural attire to a costume, or otherwise watering down an entire group of people to a stereotype is utterly repulsive. Unfortunately, too many people in today’s day and age confuse cultural appreciation, the recognition, education, and enjoyment of a culture, with cultural appropriation, the unpermitted adoption of cultural elements without proper attribution of respect and acknowledgement.

This comic depicts white, privileged people donning Native American cultural attire as casual wear. It’s an example of when cultural appropriation is wrong, because it demonstrates an entire cultural group being watered down to a fashion aesthetic or insignificant costume Photo credit: Amber Seegmiller

“The primary contention of cultural appropriation is that when utilized, it communicates a message of oppression and trivialization because it is typically a majority culture adopting facets belonging to those of a minority culture,” senior Naomi Li said.

“We must recognize that for many, culture provides a sacred boundary, and while it is essential to appreciate all cultures, there is a line between appreciation and appropriation.”

will we show up for black lives?” rapper Macklemore said in his song, “White Privilege II.” If a privileged white Christian woman wears a hijab, she may be deemed “fashion-forward,” “exotic,” or “edgy.” Conversely, if an Afghan woman makes the decision to wear a hijab daily so she may pay tribute to her Muslim faith, she is ruthlessly taunted, and brutishly branded a “terrorist.”

Unfortunately, Islamophobia is no stranger to the United States. In early December, a Muslim sixth-grade girl was mercilessly assaulted by three boys who attempted to remove her hijab, and allegedly called her “ISIS.” According to a 2015 YouGov poll, 55 percent of surveyed Americans reported having an unfavorable opinion of Islam, and 62 percent of respondents who answered this way were white.

Li believes an excellent example of cultural appreciation is Rihanna’s choice of attire at the 2015 Met Gala, in which the theme was “China: Through the Looking Glass.” Designed by Beijingbased fashion designer, Guo Pei, Rihanna’s gown was tailored in the color “imperial yellow,” a tint reserved for royalty of the Chinese dynasties.

“Rihanna’s choice in dress provided her with an opportunity to showcase the beauty of nearly �ive thousand years of culture through respect by paying homage to the inspirations for her attire, and by demonstrating a thorough understanding of the signi�icance of what she was wearing,” Li said.

To further exemplify, it is one thing for a nonNative American to purchase an authentic Nativemade dreamcatcher and hang it above their bed; this may be considered cultural appreciation as long as the artifact is being used for its intended purpose, and the user is well-informed on and respects the tribe’s culture. However, it is cultural appropriation for a non-Native to tattoo a dreamcatcher on their back because they �ind it “chic” or “cute.”

Not only are practices like this inconsiderate, but they re�lect ignorance. What countless people seem to misunderstand is how cultural appropriation can be toxic. In the grand scheme of things, mindlessly brushing aside diverse cultures and people is detrimental to the �ight against racism and xenophobia.

“We take all we want from black culture, but

Cultural appropriation by privileged people simply reiterates the idea that trends can only be accepted when started, or practiced, by white people. Furthermore, it is unfair to “borrow” cultural items without caring about where or who they came from. This erodes the legitimate cultural signi�icance, thus promoting a society in which white people feel free to wear stereotypical cultural attire without reprisal.

“The Boston Museum of Fine Arts came under �ire for its ‘Kimono Wednesdays,’ during which visitors were invited to try on replicas of the kimono worn by Claude-Monet’s wife, Camille, in the painting ‘La Japonaise.’ This is an example of unacceptable cultural appropriation, as it reduces the cultural signi�icance of a kimono to a standard similar to a petting zoo attraction,” Li said. “There is no background on the importance of the kimono in relation to Japanese culture, and the entire affair cheapens the culture, reducing it to a gimmicky title to draw attention to a work of

“It’s incredibly unfair when bigoted white people shame the culture or cultural attire of people of color, but praise it when white people adopt it,” sophomore Kara DeWeese said, “like when they make fun of bindis on Indian women, but then wear them for ‘fashion’ at Coachella.”

art. Important artifacts should not be accessories or attention-grabbers; they should be treated with respect and understanding.”

One may �ind it socially and politically acceptable to dress up as a Native American war chief for Halloween. What such a person fails to consider is that the faux-feather headdress they wear completely undermines the real eagle feathers Native Americans must earn through noble acts of valor and bravery before they merit the honor to wear a war bonnet.

Long story short, there is a �ine line between cultural appropriation and appreciation. By properly educating yourself about a culture and its people, you enable yourself to attribute credit where and when credit is due, and encourage others to appreciate the culture alongside you. It is disrespectful to use spiritual or sacred aspects of a culture without being able to apply those meanings to yourself, and it is simply disgusting to thoughtlessly mimic or stereotype a culture or ethnicity. Depreciating this to merely a costume is the equivalent of someone carelessly donning a Medal of Honor as if it holds no meaning whatsoever.

In order to avoid unintentional cultural appropriation, remain well-informed politically and historically about the principles and customs of a culture and its people before hijacking any practices or attire you want. It’s not to say that every person should be banned from dabbling with any culture besides their own, but it is imperative to understand the magnitude of one’s actions, and to avoid crossing over the line from admiration to mimicry.

“It appears ironic that those who are so adamant against cultural appropriation often focus merely on cultural aesthetics when the primary issue is something intangible: respect and understanding,” Li said.

“If those criteria are met, it seems senseless to be offended by one culture adopting elements from another in order to appreciate those elements.”

Page 6 Opinion

The Spotlight

Staff Editorial: Don’t Forget the First Amendment Southern Lehigh High School 5800 Main Street Center Valley, PA 18034 (610) 282-1421 x7122 slsdspotlight@gmail.com Twitter: @SLSDspotlight Facebook: Southern Lehigh Spotlight The Spotlight is published six times annually by the student members of its staff. Its purpose is to present news concerning Southern Lehigh High School and the Southern Lehigh School District, as well as to provide a forum for student opinion. Editorial content of The Spotlight expresses the view of the paper and not necessarily that of the Board of Education, Administration, or faculty of the Southern Lehigh School District. Bylined editorial content and letters to the editor represent the opinion of the writer only. All contents are copyrighted by The Spotlight. Advertising and subscription rates are furnished upon request.

Faculty Adviser Mrs. Marlo Spritzer

Editor-in-Chief Talia Trackim

Managing Editor Nicole Schroy

News Editor Emily Oberlender

Features Editor Allison Borelli

Center Spread Editor Danielle Alpert

Opinion Editor Katie Cole

Our World Editor Sarah Trebicka

Entertainment Editor Jamie Kish

Sports Editor Townsend Colley

Web Editor Alex Baca

Copy Editor Izza Choudhry

Photographers Maggie Moerder Caitlin Roth Devon Wolfe

Pennsylvania School Press Association 2015 Gold Rating 2014 Gold Rating 2013 Silver Rating National School Press Association 2015 First Class Rating

Recently, we’ve heard a number of opinions around the school all having to do with the same topic: “The newspaper can’t write about that; it’s school.”

“We can’t talk about this in the classroom; it’s inappropriate.”

“I don’t have any rights here.”

A common misconception is that as soon as we step in through the school doors, we are stripped of our rights, namely our First Amendment Rights, but we aren’t.

The First Amendment clearly states that, “Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances.”

The right to expression by students was of�icially established in 1965 with the Tinker vs. Des Moines Supreme Court case. The case originated with three students in Iowa who planned to wear black armbands to school to protest the Vietnam War. The school principals learned of the plan and initiated a rule banning the arm bands under penalty of suspension if the student failed to remove it. All three students were suspended when they wore the armbands to school.

The case worked its way up to the Supreme Court, where it was decided that the wearing of the arm bands was “pure speech.” It was not meant to incite violence or promote a disturbance; thus, it was protected by the Constitution. The Court wrote: “the

record does not demonstrate any facts which might reasonably lead school authorities to forecast substantial disruption of or material interference with school activities, and no disturbances or disorders on the school premises in fact occurred.”

This case set a precedent known as the Tinker Standard, meaning that administration cannot prevent student expression just because they don’t like it or because it is critical of the school.

Another Supreme Court Case, Hazelwood School District v. Kuhlmeier, followed the Tinker vs. Des Moines case nearly 20 years later and established the restriction of student rights in a much more narrow way, stating that schools may limit student speech within reason. Since then, states have had the option to choose which standard they follow.

Pennsylvania is a Tinker State. It is because of this that we can publish content ranging from marijuana, abortion, sex education, and gun laws, to education and administrative policies here at Southern Lehigh.

This standard does not only apply to the newspaper, but to the student body as well. Every student has the right to express his or her opinion as long as it doesn’t promote violence, impinge upon another’s rights, or fall under the bullying standard. For example, a student would not be allowed to claim free speech if he or she were threatening another student.

We are a passionate staff committed to the ideas of the First Amendment. We hope to engage the student body in subjects that exist beyond the walls of Southern Lehigh so that they are better equipped for encountering them in the real world.

Dear Editor, As I have read this year’s editions of the Spotlight, my attention has consistently been drawn to the opinion column, in particular the column by Miss Emily Oberlender. I am not writing this article to attack her opinions or the Spotlight; I am writing because I want our school Spotlight to be the best it can possibly be and want to offer my own opinion on how we can help all of its sections achieve their fullest potential and quality. Personally, I feel that Miss Oberlender’s opinion column would be greatly improved by better organization and evidence to support her strong opinions.

In her last article on the importance of not maintaining abstinence-based sex education in schools alone, I noticed three major inconsistencies. While I completely agree with Miss Oberlender on the importance of informed and open sex education, I also believe that such a strong opinion must be backed by strong evidence. Miss Oberlender wrote in her article that “nearly 100% of Americans have sex”; such a sweeping generalisation warrants a citation of some kind. Simply providing such a statement is not a particularly compelling nor supportive statistic. Furthermore, I would have liked to see Miss Oberlender provide an example of our school’s “pitiful” sexual education standards; if there is an issue, it is essential to provide hard evidence of the problem. Providing an example of Southern Lehigh’s “pitiful” sexual education, either through a testimonial by a health teacher or through a demonstration of research on our school’s lacking sexual education curriculum, is something that would have compelled me to consider the article with more attention. Simply branding

our school’s sex ed classes as “pitiful” without hard evidence greatly weakens Miss Oberlender’s claims.

Finally, Miss Oberlender cited multiple studies from the Guttmacher Institute in her article. While the Guttmacher Institute is an excellent and reputable source from which to draw information on the protection of reproductive rights, one of her studies was sourced from 2006, and the other did not mention a date at all. Information from a decade ago is not effective in supporting an argument meant to apply to today, and not providing a year of study at all makes it dif�icult to accept the study’s statistics as chronologically relevant. All in all, I found that her opinion article on a topic that I believe strongly about became a minimally compelling rant, due to its lack of sources to support her strong claims.

Again, I would like to emphasize that I am not writing this letter to attack Miss Oberlender, her beliefs, nor the Spotlight. I am writing this letter to address an issue of organization and logic that is essential to maintaining a strong opinion section that bolsters our hard working, award-winning newspaper. I believe that if Miss Oberlender can provide sources and logically organize her opinion articles, she will offer penetrating and compelling arguments on some of the most controversial topics of our time, and succeed in convincing her readers to see these issues in a different light. I look forward to seeing the Spotlight continue to do what it does best; providing informed reports on news and offering unprecedented insights on the most important issues of our current society.

Sincerely, Anonymous

Letter to the Editor

April 2016

Opinion

Page 7

Hatred, Prejudice, and Fearmongering: Transgender Discrimination Must Stop

by Jamie Kish

A recent law has been passed regulating the use of bathrooms by transgenders within North Carolina. This law has proved discriminatory and unjust. Photo credit: Jamie Kish

Transgender rights always have and always will be a seriously complicated issue, and there’s nothing we can really do to uncomplicate it. In particular, many are divided by the issue of the rights of transgender men and women to use restrooms corresponding to their preferred gender identity.

The LGBT rights group GLAAD de�ines transgender as a term “used to describe people whose gender identity differs from the sex the doctor marked on their birth certi�icate.”

People might raise their eyebrows and question, “what’s the big deal with bathrooms?” Many don’t really tend to think how dif�icult it is for some transgender Americans to use them. In some states, numerous attempts have been made to pass laws, nicknamed “bathroom bills,” which restrict the rights for transgender individuals to use public restrooms.

“Everybody’s gotta pee,” senior Emily Marrero said. “I think it’s ridiculous to stop trans people from using the bathrooms they want to use.”

Most recently, while I was in the process of writing this article, North Carolina passed a law that prohibits transgender people from using restrooms corresponding to their gender identity. This is actually very dangerous, because many transgender people undergo Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT), meaning testosterone or estrogen, which changes their physical appearance. Laws that limit bathroom usage to birth-sex only can place transgender people in very uncomfortable and even dangerous situations simply for wanting to use toilets.

Some believe passing laws like this would somehow protect people from possible “danger.” Many religious anti-LGBT lobbies including the Family Research Council, the not-so-subtly-named “Americans for Truth About Homosexuality,” the Focus on the Family, and the National Organization for Marriage have advocated and still �irmly believe that these laws should be passed. These groups passionately believe that transgender people pose a threat to society, comparing them to pedophiles and rapists and believing that they put young children in danger.

The other less radical, but still undeniably transphobic, view is that male sex offenders will take advantage of anti-discrimination ordinances to harass and assault women.

The FRC, for example, claims that anti-discrimination protection makes it “impossible for a young girl to determine whether or not the man [sic] in the restroom is a ‘peeping tom,’ a rapist or a pedophile,” and that “Legislators should not allow the rights of transgendered

men [sic] to transcend the rights of women and vulnerable children.”

Despite the fact that there has been no real concrete evidence of transgender individuals sexually assaulting women in bathrooms in the U.S., using sex offense, which is a serious issue, as an excuse to restrict the rights of someone who’s different from you from using the toilet is cruel and unusual treatment.

“I can understand people being uncomfortable with transgender people using the bathrooms opposite the sex they were born with,” junior Caleb Bauder said, “but I think banning transgender people from using them is too strict and unnecessary.”

The common misconception of transgender women in particular is that they’re just men in dresses and makeup and that the transgender rights movement isn’t a real civil rights movement. If someone were to overgeneralize and stereotype all men as testosterone-ridden alcoholics who abuse women, when in fact they aren’t, people would �ind it extremely offensive; but just try to imagine how it feels to transgender people when they’re all generalized as Mrs. Doubt�ireesque crossdressers, when in fact they aren’t.

Sentiments like these may seem harmless at �irst glance, but when ampli�ied by religious leaders and politicians, they can cause a snowball effect of prejudice and mistrust towards trans people that could legitimately result in restrictions to trans people’s rights.

Transgender people can also be individually affected by these sentiments.

According to a poll conducted by the National Center for Transgender Equality, 63 percent of participants reported that they have experienced “serious acts of discrimination.” This includes experiencing the loss of their jobs, eviction and homelessness, physical and sexual harassment, and severe bullying simply because they’re transgender.

I completely understand that some have negative opinions towards transgender people, and I know that there’s not much I can do to change that. However, having a different opinion doesn’t entail the right to discriminate. Being hateful or negative towards transgender people can signi�icantly lower their quality of life.

Trans people are people, just like everyone else. They are not objects, and don’t deserve to be mistreated and abused by society. It may be said again and again and sound cliché, but there’s absolutely no need to be disrespectful and hateful towards someone simply because they’re different.

Whether you’re male or female, cisgender or transgender; we should all embrace the classical idea of “do unto others as you would do unto yourself,” and ensure that no bathroom bills are passed in our state like the one in North Carolina, or the ones constantly being proposed around the country. Some may not be comfortable with the idea of being transgender, but that is never an excuse to restrict the rights of other people. It may not seem like a big deal, but it sure might mean a lot to someone else.

All-Gender bathrooms are a solution to solving the transgender bathroom debate.

Photo Credit: Samir Luther on Flickr

Page 8

The Spotlight

Center Spread

Strut into the Prom Season

By Danielle Alpert

Southern Lehigh’s �irst annual prom fashion show was on March 8 to raise money for the 2016 prom. Juniors and seniors modeled prom dresses and tuxedos from All Things Bridal and Ficher’s Tuxedo of Quakertown. Hair was done by New Attitude Salon and �lowers were done by Coopersburg Country Flowers.

Juniors Kevin Publicover and Olivia Muscarella

Junior Alex Curtis

Senior Lauren Wolfe

Junior Marco Spinosa

Junior Cullin Hawk

April 2016

Center Spread

Page 9

Senior Meggan Rusiewicz and junior Jordan Mann

Senior Hanna Strauss

Junior Isaac Santiago

Junior Molly Kroboth

Junior Zach Mohr Juniors Justine Groeber and Sean Welsh

Photo Credit: Maggie Moerder

Page 10 Our World

SL Alumni: Where Are They Now? Jordan Koch

The Spotlight

The Reality Behind the Socialist Stigma

by Nicole Schroy

by Danielle Alpert

it happen’ written on it as a housewarming gift,” Koch said.

“As I unpacked my bags, I realized I didn’t have anywhere to put my toothbrush, so I just used that coffee mug temporarily until I found something else. Well, to this day, I still keep my toothbrush in that coffee mug, and every morning I’m reminded, no matter what it is, to ‘make it happen.’”

Before starting at Nickelodeon, Koch did freelance illustration Ework for different companies, including Animation Magazine.

“A little over a month [after Animator Jordan Koch poses at Nickel- moving to Los Angeles], I startodeon Animation Studio in Burbank, ed working at a small, start-up California. Photo credit: Nickelodeon animation studio doing charAnimation Studio acter design and storyboards, You may want to catch a and designing posters for their glimpse of a new show preanimated projects,” he said. miering this May, “The Loud Koch feels that if he had House,” on Nickelodeon. This landed a job at Nickelodeon cartoon is about a young boy right out of college, he would who lives in a house with his not have had the opportunity to ten sisters. What may come as work for Animation Magazine. a surprise, however, is that the “You might not realize it at animator, Jordan Koch, graduthe time, but we have the opated from Southern Lehigh in portunity to learn something 2008. new every day,” he said. “Take In high school, Koch was in- advantage of it!” volved in the theater program.

He started posting his work “Now, eight years later, I’m on Instagram and Facebook, still ‘performing,’” Koch said, gaining attention from Chris “but my acting is done through Savino, creator of “The Loud the characters I’m drawing House.” Savino wrote to Koch to instead of being on stage.” see if he would be interested in He performed in two shows working on the show. per year in all four years of high “A couple of months later, school and spent numerous they sent me a ‘test’ for the hours after school practicing. show,” Koch said. “ A test is “Jordan was always an similar to that of an audition for artistic student. Art was his an actor. They’re looking to see passion, and I think that is a bit if you can draw and think in the obvious now,” theater director style of the show.”

Mr. Matthew Wehr said. “He The proudest moment of was also a lot of fun, and I really Koch’s career was when he loved working with him when pitched his �irst episode of “The he played Tevye in ‘Fiddler on Loud House.” After spending the Roof’ his senior year. He seven weeks storyboarding loved jokes, and was really a the script, he had the opportupeople person. He got along nity to stand up in front of the with everyone.” entire crew and pitch the whole After high school, Koch episode, playing all the characstudied 2D animation at Edters. inboro University of PennsylAs a storyboard artist for vania. His �irst assignment in “The Loud House,” Koch recollege was to animate a tiny, ceives the episode script from round ball bouncing up and the writers and then translates down. it into drawings. He believes “Seeing that come to life that there is no better feeling for the �irst time was one of than having your work make the most exciting things I had people laugh. ever seen,” he said. “It was just “I get to draw all day, and a stack of pencil drawings, but I get to work and collaborate when put on �ilm, it was like with a team of incredibly talmagic!” ented people; writers, painters, Once Koch graduated in actors, character designers, edi2012, he moved to Los Angeles tors, we’re all working together in search of a job. to make something fun and “When I �irst moved to Los entertaining,” Koch said. “Each Angeles, I was given a coffee day is something new, and it’s mug with the phrase ‘make very exciting!”

U.S. senator of Vermont, Bernie Sanders, is known for his democratic socialist ideals. Photo credit: Gage Skidmore on Flickr

Socialism. I have seen many people cringe at the word, and I have been trying to �igure out why people exhibit such a negative response. After asking around, it was easy for me to con�irm that the negative reputation of socialism is based upon the lack of knowledge surrounding its meaning. It is a word loaded with a myriad of ideas and values (and lots of misconceptions as well). “[People] probably don’t have a thorough understanding of socialism because it seems that some people just think it’s communism,” junior Mitchell Bauder said.

“I don’t think most people understand what it is.”

According to the Democratic Socialists of America (DSA), Democratic Socialism is simply the belief that both the social and the economic systems should be run democratically. The ultimate goal is to establish a more fair system so that more people are bene�iting rather than struggling. There is a strong correlation between democracy and socialism.

“When you start to fall behind in America, you have to make your way back out by yourself,” Denmark resident Demine Pederson said.

There are quite a few countries that have socialist-heavy policies such as Denmark, Finland, Canada, Sweden, Norway, Ireland, New Zealand, and Belgium.

Meeting the basic needs of citizens is promised within socialism: health care is typically universal, and education is free.

“There are countries out there that de�initely have more socialism than others, but nobody has pure socialism. There’s lots of nations that are kind of hybrids of socialism; they are all nations of some level of capitalism with higher degrees of socialist policies,” social studies department head Mr. Tom Beaupre said. “A lot of the time we’ll talk about Canada, because they have programs that the government runs, whether it is high taxes, nationalized medicine or nationalized education.”

There are a number of socialist-style policies and programs in the United States, such as Medicare, Medicaid, public schooling, and Social Security.

“I think a lot of Americans fear the word socialism because they associate it with communism, and those things aren’t necessarily related,” Mr. Beaupre said.

“We have, over time, embraced a lot of aspects of socialist programs, but Americans do not tend to think of them that way.”

There are pros and cons to most political and economic theories. The good?

Socialism entails education and healthcare for everyone. It also allows for a more equal economic system. The bad? Though healthcare and education would be easily accessible, this comes with higher taxes. The ugly? Well, beauty is in the eye of the beholder...

“There isn’t complete control over economy or everyone else’s life, but it is more forgiving than capitalism because it kind of seems to work as a backup system. You are not going to �lounder if you are in poverty or if something goes wrong in your life,” junior Lexi Brown said, “You can get help instead of just being thrown to the wolves.”

Members of the Democratic Socialists of America (DSA) march in the 2011 Occupy Wall Street protest. As of 2014, the DSA boasts approximately 10,000 members, and actively campaigns for a social democracy. Photo credit: Wikipedia

Our World Page 11

April 2016

Abortion Debate: A Matter of Life or Choice

by Izza Choudhry

The abortion debate has been a hot topic for many, prompting them to engage in rallies and protests. Photo credit: Elvert Barnes on Flickr.

The Supreme Court case Roe vs. Wade in 1973 was a signi�icant moment in the debate regarding a woman’s right to an abortion. In this case, the Supreme Court ruled in a 7-2 decision that a woman’s right to an abortion fell within the right to privacy granted in the Fourteenth Amendment. This decision gave women complete autonomy over pregnancy during the �irst trimester, and de�ined different levels of state interest for the second and third trimester. Due to this case, 26 out of 50 states’ abortion laws had to be altered.

Despite this ruling, the pro-life vs. pro-choice debate is still heavily sensitive and controversial. The of�icial de�inition of an abortion is the “deliberate termination of a human pregnancy, most often performed during the �irst 28 weeks of pregnancy.” Someone who is pro-life advocates the legal protection of human embryos and fetuses, especially by favoring the outlawing of abortion on the grounds that it is taking a human life. Conversely, someone who is pro-choice favors keeping abortion as an option for unwanted pregnancy.

“I believe that policies around abortion should be based on our best scienti�ic evidence,” researcher of obstetrics, gynecology and reproductive science Dr. Gretchen Sisson said. “Accordingly, this evidence shows that legal and accessible abortion is required to ensure safe abortion is available for all women.”

Every year in the United States, over 1.1 million abortions take place. Approximately 33 percent of all women will get an abortion at some point in their lives. Additional research also shows that over 95 percent of women who get abortions do not regret their decision years later. “[Abortion] is an extremely common procedure,” Dr. Sisson said. “Making abortion illegal or inaccessible will not stop women

from getting abortions; it will just mean that their abortions are more dangerous.”

According to the National Abortion Federation, up until 1973, abortion was illegal in most of the United States. Due to this, many women died or suffered from serious medical issues as a result of being unable to obtain a medically safe abortion. Women in desperation often made dangerous attempts to induce their own abortions, or resorted to untrained practitioners who performed abortions with unsafe instruments and in unsanitary conditions. Following these unsafe abortions, women would rush into the emergency room with serious medical complications, such as perforations of the uterus, retained placentas, severe bleeding, cervical wounds, rampant infections, poisoning, shock, and gangrene.

“I believe the strongest argument in favor of the ‘pro-choice’ position in support of legal abortion is simply that women’s lives, health, and well-being depend upon access to comprehensive reproductive healthcare,” Dr. Sisson said. “This includes abortion. It always has. It always will. I don’t believe any of the major arguments in support of the anti-abortion movement are based on the best medical, psychological, sociological, economic, or public health research, and so I do not �ind any of them compelling.”

Research proves that legal abortion has clearly been a signi�icant factor in saving women’s lives and health. Deaths due to abortion have declined dramatically in all countries where abortion has been legalized. The risk of death from having an abortion has also declined dramatically, and is now miniscule. When an abortion is legal and readily available, women tend to have them done early in their pregnancies, when health risks are the lowest.

“Women are capable of making the best decisions for themselves and their futures, and should be allowed to do so,” Dr. Sisson said.

On the other side, many prolifers argue that it is immoral to terminate a developing child. Research shows that the human body begins to develop as early as three weeks in the womb. The cardiovascular system is the �irst major body system to develop and function. At about 22 days after conception, the child’s heart begins to circulate its own blood, and its heartbeat can be detected on an ultrasound. At just six weeks, the child’s eyes and eyelids, nose, mouth, and tongue have formed. Electrical brain activity can be detected at six or seven weeks, and by the end of the eighth week, the fetus has now developed all of its organs and bodily structures.

By ten weeks after conception, the child can make its own bodily movements.

“Public funding of abortion providers is an insult to people of conscience at the least and an affront to good governance at best,” leading Republican candidate Donald Trump said.

Many people who are prochoice argue that it is simply cruel to force a woman to carry a pregnancy which was the result of rape.

However, in response, pro-lifers relate abortion to the death penalty.

The Supreme Court has declared the death penalty to rapists a form of cruel and unusual punishment.

Similarly, pro-lifers believe that a child conceived in rape should not have to die for a crime they did not commit. Studies show rape victims

choose abortion at half the rate of the average unplanned pregnancy, which is over 50 percent. Only 1525 percent of rape victims choose abortion.

“I understand the utilization of abortion in cases such as extreme health issues of the mother or even rape. However, in any other case I �ind it unnecessary and ignorant.

There are many consequences of sex that you must consider before taking the risk, including pregnancy,” sophomore Jillian Gehring said.

“I �ind it hard to believe that people can not understand that pregnancy could be an outcome every time they have sex. Don’t they know how reproduction works? They need to consider these things before they conceive a child, not after!

It is unacceptable that someone would consider ending a potential life because it is an inconvenience to them. It is simply not their life to take.”

Forty-one states have enacted abortion restrictions at different stages of pregnancy. North Dakota bans abortion as early as six weeks, when a fetal heartbeat can be �irst detected using a transvaginal probe, and Arkansas bans abortion at 12 weeks, when a fetal heartbeat can be detected by using an abdominal ultrasound. Furthermore, eight states ban abortions at 22 weeks, based on the theory that the fetus can feel pain at that point, 26 states prohibit abortion at 24 to 26 weeks, when a fetus is deemed viable outside the womb, and nine states and the District of Columbia have no speci�ic laws prohibiting abortion after a certain point in pregnancy.

Page 12 Arts and Entertainment

The Spotlight

Give it a Go and Listen to Some New Miike Snow

by Nicole Schroy

Photo credit: Downtown Records

Swedish indie pop group Miike Snow released their third full-length album “iii” on March 4, 2016. Since their formation in 2007, the band has been steadily growing in popularity. It has been four years since their last release, and “iii” is

already receiving praise from critics.

Miike Snow consists of three members: Andrew Wyatt, Christian Karlsson, and Pontus Winnberg. Karlsson and Winnberg are also in a production duo that goes by the name of Bloodyshy & Avant. The duo has worked with many popular artists such as Britney Spears, Madonna, Jennifer Lopez, Katy Perry, and Sky Ferreira. Karlsson is also a part of the EDM group of Gatlantis, while Winnberg is a keyboardist in the band Amason.

“I think as a whole, there’s the idea that we want to make music that’s joyous and imaginative, but not containing the materialist or shallow side that can invade pop music,” vocalist Andrew Wyatt said in an interview with the Rolling Stone.

“Heart is Full” and “Genghis Khan” are two singles that released prior to the distribution of the new album. Starting out as a soulful tune, “Heart is Full” embraces groovy undertones that creates a sort of doo-wop sound. “Genghis Khan” is narrated by a jealous lover. The song also has a very interesting visual component from the music video, which tells a very interesting story about a villain and his enemy’s love-hate relationship.

The experimental components of the album have created a new sound. Though the �irst two albums were also experimental, the in�luence of hip-hop and R&B throughout the entirety of the track list is evident and has created a catchy ambiance surrounding the music, which is ultimately different from the �irst two.

Each song holds a different story which includes a variety of emotions.The album is bold, and it is unique, but for fans of Miike Snow, this experimentation is expected. There seems to be a little bit of everything on this album: from somber undertones to upbeat auras, from something that sounds as if it was derived from doo-wops and other soulful entities to a sort of melancholic and subdued sound, there is an apparent presence of variation.

If you enjoyed Miike Snow’s �irst two albums, this one is de�initely worth a listen. Though there are noticeable differences within this experimentation, the band’s bold beats certainly have the capability of making a statement.

10 Cloverfield Lane: A Perfect “10”

by Caitlin Roth

Nothing quite petri�ies the human race more than the inevitable apocalypse. Recently, Hollywood has been abusing this trope, with tales about giant asteroid strikes, ancient prophetic doomsday predictions coming true, and other terrifying fates. However, one new movie stands out among standard armageddon �licks: “10 Clover�ield Lane.” This �ilm asks a unique question, focusing on who you are with during the apocalypse, not so much the apocalypse itself.

Unlike its spiritual predecessor “Clover�ield,”the �ilm “10 Clover�ield Lane” focuses more on the horrors of human nature rather than monsters. The story follows Michelle, who gets in a violent car accident and �inds herself in an underground bunker with two strange men named Emmett and Howard. John Goodman plays Howard, an eccentric doomsday prepper, who tells Michelle that he saved her life from a chemical attack that has made the Earth’s air uninhabitable. Emmett attests to Howard’s claims, and believes they will be staying in the bunker for at least two years.

Like the audience, Michelle is skeptical if what Howard is saying is genuine, and wonders if she has actually been kidnapped for his own personal enjoyment. With Howard’s dictatorshiplike guidelines and possible murderous past, the tension arises as Emmet and Michelle question their rescuer.

“10 Clover�ield Lane” is unlike any �ilm I have seen before. The entire length of the �ilm takes place in the underground bunker, creating a feeling of pure desperation, isolation, and claustrophobia for both the characters and the audience.

It’s a unique idea con�ining an entire �ilm to just one location and is quite an ambitious concept from director Dan Trachtenberg.

This �ilm is a thrilling watch as more is revealed about the outside world, Howard’s questionable past, and Michelle and Emmett’s ultimate plan to escape the bunker. There is not a single dull moment in “10 Clover�ield Lane,” as it is �illed with twists and turns that made the crowd in my theater gasp in shock. Of course, I will not reveal these twists; you’ll have to see the movie yourself.

Also, if you are a horror lover like me who hates jump scares, I am happy to report that there are none present throughout this �ilm. “10 Clover�ield Lane” relies on real scares and tension, something devoid in Hollywood horror today. It’s a real breath of fresh air.

The character development is fantastic, and all three lead actors perform outstanding roles.

However, the real star of “10 Clover�ield Lane” is John Goodman. He perfectly portrays Howard as a seemingly gentle human, who at a drop of a dime transforms into a raging monster, capable of violent impulses. His unpredictable nature just

Photo credit: Paramount Pictures

adds to the suspense of the �ilm.

If you’re looking for a movie that will keep you on the edge of your seat, I highly recommend you get to your local theater to see “10 Clover�ield Lane.”

Underground Music Spotlight

Artist: From Indian Lakes

Label: Triple Crown Records

Album Title: Absent Sounds

Trivia: From Indian Lakes’ lead vocalist and multiinstrumentalist Joey Vannucci grew up near Yosemite National Park in California. He learned how to play many instruments from a young age because he had no electricity.

Genre: indie rock, post-rock Release Date: October 4, 2014

April 2016

Arts and Entertainment

Page 13

Zootopia: Get Ready for a ‘Wilde’ Ride

by Jamie Kish

Disney’s latest animated �ilm “Zootopia” had a spectacular opening weekend, earning about 19.5 million dollars on its March 4 opening alone, even beating out Disney’s own “Frozen.” The �ilm has received critical acclaim from critics all around the board, with many praising its animation, humor, and its themes and messages.

The overall plot of “Zootopia,” known as “Zootropolis” in the UK (and several other different titles depending on which country you live in) is about a civilized society where animals have evolved to walk upright, talk and behave like humans do.

As someone who’s aiming to study animation in college, I’ve always been a sucker for animated Disney �ilms with talking animals, so of course I was eager to see this �ilm as soon as it was announced and the �irst teaser trailer was released.

Going into the movie, I expected it to be a fun experience as many family-friendly �licks are, but nothing too special.

Surprisingly and unexpectedly, for me at least, the movie had a great message about toler-

ance and diversity. In the �ilm’s �ictional universe, predatory species and prey live together. Despite living together peacefully, there is still prejudice, discrimination and stereotypes based on an animal’s species. For example, the protagonist, a rabbit named Judy Hopps is told growing up that she could never achieve her dream of becoming a police of�icer, because her species isn’t seen as capable enough. As the �ilm progresses, Judy is able to break that stereotype and becomes the Zootopia Police Department’s �irst rabbit of�icer.

Without giving away too much of the plot, the movie is �illed with clever references to other forms of media, such as “The Godfather” and even “Breaking Bad.” I won’t give any context to these references to avoid spoilers, but I can assure you they’re spectacular.

While I don’t think I’d say “Zootopia” is a perfect movie, it was both fun and thought-provoking, and a �ilm that I de�initely plan on seeing again while it’s still in theaters.

Photo credit: Walt Disney Pictures

‘Carry On’ Simply Carries Out the Clichés

by Sarah Jacobson

April 15th

Photo credit: Universal Pictures

Photo credit: Walt Disney Pictures

Upcoming Movies:

Photo credit: St. Martin’s Press

April 22nd

Agatha; his nagging best friend, Penelope; pushy headmaster, Mage; and his violent and vampiric roommate, Baz. Though the book held much promise, it all was sadly washed away the moment my eyes �littered through the �irst sentence. With every turn of the page, “Carry On” began to feel more like Rainbow Rowell had just marked up a copy of “Harry Potter” and sent it off to the publisher.

Any positives about the book were buried under deep rooted parallels, making it almost impossible to enjoy.

The parallels to the book’s inspiration were so numerous that it truly was little more than a well-written fan�iction, which isn’t a terrible thing, except for the fact that that wasn’t what I had set out to read. It was almost like expecting sunshine on a rainy day. There’s nothing wrong with rain, and it’s not like I can stop it from raining, but it’s discouraging nonetheless when you thrust back the curtains in the morning with hopes of light only to be greeted by the same old gloomy clouds. Originality was lacking, and despite the plentiful rain, I was left thirsty for any sort of unique plot. I suppose this book is not the chosen one.

Photo credit: Marvel Entertainment

“Carry On” by Rainbow Rowell has the author’s trademark charm and relatable, awkward characters, but when you get past her endearing style, you realize that you’re reading just another fan�iction. While the ever-growing genre is popular among aspiring writers just getting their start, Rowell is an experienced writer who should know better. I don’t hate this young adult novel, but originality is tragically missing from this cutesy “Harry Potter” remake.

Simon Snow is the rugged hero who is the supposed “chosen one” of the wizard world, but the only problem is he has no idea how to do it.

After the previous year’s traumatic kidnapping by his worst enemy, Simon returns to the magical school of Watford for his �inal year of learning.

His nemesis, the Insidious Humdrum, is on the run, and the �inal �ight between the two hangs in the balance. He feels untrained and unready, and insists on staying at the school to polish up his magic.

You’re probably wondering if I just snagged the plot of the last “Harry Potter” book, but I assure, this is actually the the plot of “Carry On.” Along with the Humdrum, Simon must deal with con�lict in his relationship with his girlfriend,

May 6th

Page 14

Sports

The Spotlight

Girls Basketball Team Rewrites History

By Townsend Colley

Girls Basketball coach Matt Cooper talks to his team during a break. Photo credits Caitlin Roth

just come off a 30-point win in the �irst round of the tournament. The Spartans opposition had discernible height advantage with two starters, one of whom is a division one basketball recruit, standing six feet or taller.

Southern Lehigh began the game slowly by scoring only 11 points in the �irst half, the lowest number of points scored in a half by the Spartans all season long. Despite the lackluster �irst half, the they battled back into the game in the second half, although foul trouble led to star senior Sydney Cry exiting the game late in the half. The two teams jockeyed for the lead until the �inish.

With 30 seconds left, sophomore Amanda Mobley, who was questionable for the game after suffering an ankle injury in the previous game, drilled a three-pointer to tie the game at 38. The Saints drove down the court and scored to put themselves up by two. Southern Lehigh managed to bring the ball down to slightly past half court where Amanda Mobley launched a thirty-foot shot with no time left to win the game, going just wide of the basket to end the season with a heartbreaking loss.

Despite the loss, this is not a team that should be remembered for what it didn’t do, but for what it did do. It rewrote history with an untraditional team made up of starters from all grade levels. Freshman Olivia Snyder lead the team in points, and �inished second in Southern Lehigh history for most points scored by a freshman with 383 points enroute to second team all Colonial League Honors. Fellow freshman Ellie Cassel �inished the season third on the team in points, and her performance throughout the season garnered her a spot as a honorable mention All Colonial League.

Standout Southern Lehigh senior Sydney Cyr �inished the season as a �irst team All Colonial League forward. Joining her on the �irst team All Colonial League is sophomore guard Amanda Mobley.

“Because everyone is so friendly and so goofy, everybody just kind of came together really nicely as a family and as a team,” Brianna Mobley said, “And that really helped us throughout the season because you can’t win games if you don’t like the people you’re playing with.”

The legendary season will carry on in the record books, banners, and trophies won by this record breaking, fun loving team that came together to form the greatest team in Southern Lehigh girls basketball history.

Photo credits Caitlin Roth

Historical. That’s the only way to describe the 2015-16 Southern Lehigh girls basketball team’s season. It was one that began with doubts and ended with a bang, a story of young playmakers coinciding with senior leadership.

The season began in the least enviable way possible, with a loss to a very good Dunmore team that would go on to play in the state championship. From there the Spartans had a blowout win against the Wilson Warriors and never looked back. The team would go on to win 27 straight games until �inally ending their spellbinding season in the second round of state playoffs against Berks Catholic in a closely contested game with a sensational �inish that just didn’t go the Spartans’ way.

However, it is what happened between the Spartans’ season book-end losses that made it so brilliant. Over the course of the winter of 2015 and the spring of 2016 the girls basketball team reached new heights.

After Southern Lehigh’s loss to Dunmore, the team gained an energy not often seen in a team after being dealt a loss.

“I think that the loss to Dunmore actually gave us a bit of a kick in the butt,” senior Brianna Mobley said. “It gave us a taste of what losing felt like.”

It only got better from there for the Spartans. The 27-game winning streak included huge victories over Palmerton who they blew out of the gym with a �inal score of 67-19, and dropped 86 points on a struggling Pen Argyl team. After the regular season concluded, the Spartans cruised through the Colonial League playoffs and held off a very good Palisades team 47-36 to win the Colonial League championship title. “[During the practices] I think the energy was really high and we were ready to just keep winning and keep going far into states and districts,” freshman Olivia Snyder said.

After blowing through the Colonial League in dramatic fashion, the Spartans began their district and state playoff run. The �irst step on the road to Hershey required them to defeat both Bethlehem Catholic and Allentown Central Catholic. These two teams have been a perennial road block for Southern Lehigh and are one of the main reasons they never won a district title in years past. But this was the year the Spartans beat the sectarian schools to claim the District XI girls basketball title.

“Winning the district title was really amazing, honestly, especially as a senior, making history,” Brianna Mobley said. “One by beating the two Catholic schools, and then winning the district title for the �irst time was honestly the most fantastic feeling.”

From there, the streak continued into the state playoffs. This was not a team that was going to be satis�ied with just winning a district title. The energy that the Spartans had as a unit wanted to rewrite the history books of Southern Lehigh girls basketball.

So they continued to do just that as they won the �irst round of state playoffs over York Suburban High School as the top seeded team in the tournament. During the game, despite being only up by two points at the half, the Spartans came out of the second half �iring on all cylinders and held the Trojans scoreless for �ive minutes while they completed their own 10-0 run to win the game 45-34. “[After the York Suburban win] we were just ready to keep going and take it one game at a time,” Snyder said. “We knew they were a really good team and it felt good to beat them and make it to the second round of states.”

Following the win the Southern Lehigh girls learned that they would be playing second seeded Berks Catholic in the second round. The Saints had

April Issue

Sports

Page 15

Will Softball Sustain Seasonal Success?

By Allison Borelli

Southern Lehigh’s softball team is one of the school’s most decorated sports. All graduating senior classes have won league and district titles.

After an amazing last season which included a 16-game win streak, the next question is will they be able to repeat as champions?

“The fact that if you want to be a success in the terms of wins and losses, you have to earn it. It’s not going to be given to you,” Coach Brian Neefe said, “And you have to be willing to work hard enough to be successful, in the terms of wins and losses. We’ve had some very successful teams, and in the 44 years I’ve coached we’ve never had a losing team.”

Southern Lehigh Softball has an impressive record. Not only do they have 27 Colonial League titles but also six District XI �irst place �inishes.

With only four starters returning to the team, and only three of them being seniors, the team could possibly face a tough season.

“It’s de�initely a challenge,” senior Sophia Rizzo said, “but it’s fun to be able to lead the team and give your experiences and advice in situations like that and in general.”

The three returning seniors, including Rizzo at center �ield, Courtney Herr at �irst base, and Samantha Tankred at shortstop are also captains.

“Next year we will have no seniors, so we will have two years to build a pretty strong team,” sophomore Danielle Barnes said.

Barnes, the pitcher, is the only other returning starter. The other 13 members of the team are freshmen and sophomores.

“It’s going pretty good right now,” she said. “I

Girls softball practices in order to build on past success. Photo credits Allison Borelli

think we’re really bonding as a team so far.”

In his 44 years of coaching, Neefe has about 750 wins to his name. Despite the tough competition within the league, Neefe believes that the team can win their 28th Colonial League championship.

“He [Neefe] seems tough, he doesn’t always sound the nicest, but he has a good heart,” sophomore Chloe McNulty said. “He knows what he’s talking about.”

The team faces especially tough competition in Pen Argyl, Catasauqua, and Northwestern. If they make it to districts, they’ll face �ierce rivals in Bethlehem Catholic.

“We just have to play our hardest,” McNulty

said. “We’re mostly relying on sophomore and freshmen right now, so we’re going to have pull our own weight.”

Southern Lehigh opened the season with an 8-0 loss to a Northwestern team that returned all but one starter from last year’s team. “[Our goals are] simply to have everyone play as well as they possibly can. To learn some values. It’s always nice to say our objective is to have fun,” Neefe said. “Well is that the number one objective in English is to have fun or math class to have fun? Supposedly they’re teaching something of value, we would like a look at the same thing.”

Could the Lacrosse Boys Be Among the Best?

Michael Sisselberger wins a faceoff against BECA during the 2015 season.Photo credits Christmas City Studios

Southern Lehigh boy’s lacrosse has been a perennial title contender throughout the Lehigh Valley. Last year, in Coach Desi Gonzalez’s �irst season, the team reached new heights.

However, this year’s team could be the best boys’ lacrosse team in Southern Lehigh history.

“On paper, we look pretty good,” Coach Desi Gonzalez said. “I was surprised with some of the talent we have. We didn’t lose too many key components from last year’s graduation class.”

Graduating only four seniors last year, Southern Lehigh returns several key components, and almost all its starters, from a team that had a record of 18-3 and lost in a dramatic triple-overtime battle against Emmaus 9-8 in the District XI championship, a game in which they were leading 6-1 at the beginning of the �irst quarter.

“It’s de�initely motivated us and been in the back of our minds,” senior mid�ielder Michael Nelson said. “It’s really motivated us to work harder to improve.

The Spartans are led by Nelson, who had 62 goals and 22 assists and was a �irst team Lehighvalleylive and Morning Call selection last year. Senior defender Wyatt Noone was a �irst-team Morning Call selection. Both have been starters since their freshman year.

“I feel like this year will be the year where we will win districts,” Noone said. “I think this is the best year we will have.”

Other returning starters include sophomore faceoff Mike Sisselberger, senior goalie Alex Amann, senior attackman Ben Johnston and Noah Lycett and senior mid�ielder Blake Levengood. Five defenders return from a unit that only gave up 97 goals (4.6 goals per game). The defenders include Noone, seniors Ben Wilson and Hans Deutsch, junior Andrew Malicki, and sophomore Logan Blondell.

While the team brings back several key components, several underclassmen have stepped up to �ill a bigger role this season including junior attackman Michael Smith and his younger brother freshman Andrew Smith, as well as freshman attackman Ken Wolfe.

“We’re capable of making a run in states,” Nelson said. “We have the most talented team we’ve had in Southern Lehigh history.”

Their �irst game is at Nazareth on April 1.

Photo credits Christmas City Studios

By Alex Baca

Page 16 Odds and Ends

The Spotlight April 2016

My Strange Addiction: Teacher Edition!

Mr. Hershey Friday Night Video Games “Well it’s Friday so I’ll be playing tonight. Look out for me. I won’t give you my handle though.”

Mr. Fay Hitting the Snooze Button “It’s so enticing to sleep for �ive more minutes.”

Mrs. Gross Black Sesame Ice Cream and Grandson , Emerson “My perfect day would be getting black sesame ice cream with my grandson.”

Mr. Dougherty Arugula “I’m so embaressed about this addiction.”