February 2016 Spotlight

Southern Lehigh High School 5800 Main Street, Center Valley, PA 18034 Volume 59 Issue 4

Artists Make a Pop!

Solehi artists and writers recieve recognition at Scholastic Art and Writing Awards Turn to Pages 2 and 16 for more.

Front Page Art by Amanda Andreucci In this

Issue:

Pennies for Patients is over! Learn about what went into this record breaking fundraiser on pages 2-3.

The legacy of David Bowie; read a final tribute to this singer and actor on pages 12 - 13.

Are you ready for some hockey? Catch up on the hockey team on pages 14 - 15.

Page 2

The Spotlight

News

Musician Luke Simons Ranks Among the Best in the Region

by Townsend Colley

Last year Luke Simons was the first Southern Lehigh High School student to be selected for the All-State band since 2010 and is well on his way to a repeat performance. Photo credit: Devon Wolfe

The coming of the New Year for most students might mean anything from a New Year’s resolution, to a change in classes, to spring sports playoffs. For senior Luke Simons, however, it means the coming of district and regional band competitions and festivals, with his sights set on the all-state band festival.

While some people may be natural athletes, Simons is a natural musician. He excels in everything from his clarinet skills all the way to his tenor voice. In his eighth year playing the clarinet, Simons is making his second push towards being selected for the PMEA All-State Band Festival. Last year Simons was selected as a junior and became the �irst Southern Lehigh All- State Band selection since 2010.

The process started back in December when Simons went to audition at Parkland High School for a spot in the District 10 Band Festival, competing against anywhere from 100 to 150 fellow clarinetists to earn one of the few coveted spots in district band, placing third.

“It’s an honor [to represent the school],” Simons said. “I wish there were more people coming honestly. We had a good turnout to audition.”

While at the district band festival, another audition is held in which the contestants are required to memorize a whole new piece of music to perform for the judges. Simons impressed the judges to the point where he earned the spot of principal �irst clarinet at districts and quali�ied

for Region Band. He will attend the Region Band Festival at Twin Valley High School from February 24 to 26.

Preparation for these festivals is an affair that continues throughout the festival season. Each festival requires different music.

“Doing it again and again it makes me feel more comfortable for the audition,” Simons said.

Pieces of music need to be practiced countless times in order to get the perfect sound. By the time the musicians arrive at the festival, they are expected to have memorized the piece and then from there only have a short amount of time to prepare with the rest of the band for a hefty performance.

“Music is my life, so it’s really an honor to get in [region band] and keep going with the process,” Simons said.

He is proud to represent Southern Lehigh for the second consecutive year and aspires to make states yet again to close out his high school music career.

Simons has aspirations that go further than high school band. Throughout February and March, Simons is auditioning for colleges in order to be accepted as a music performance major. The long list of schools include highly recognizable names in the music industry such as the Julliard School and the Mannes School of Music, both in New York City.

New Year, New Options: Southern Lehigh High School Offers Its First Online Course Options

by Nicole Schroy

Photo credit: Nicole Schroy

It is already the third marking period and Southern Lehigh High School students have already weighed their options to build their ideal schedules for next year. A few changes have been made concerning graduation requirements, and some courses have even earned a “2.0-worthy”

title.

Honors English 12 and Wellness 11-12 are now offered as both face-to-face and online formats for the 2016-17 school year. This will enable juniors and seniors to have more �lexibility when it comes to picking courses. Some students are opting to take a study hall in place of these courses, while others are planning to schedule an additional course.

English teacher Mrs. Marlo Spritzer and health and physical education teacher Ms. Megan Dellegrotti have both been piloting their online environment this year in these classes via the Canvas learning management system. Canvas is an online environment where teachers can share resources and assignments, and students can submit their work easily.

“It’s going to allow a little bit more �lexibility for a student who might have a very busy schedule or can’t �it a certain class into a schedule,” Mrs. Spritzer said. “For a course like Honors English 12, there’s typically only one section every year, and if a student can’t �it that time slot into their schedule, they cannot take the course, and either have to take college prep or AP.” Both courses will remain true to what has been taught in the past, but the content will be strictly web-based. This will provide more practice in time management, and it will also include the application of 21st century skills.

“It is de�initely more convenient to have the content online because then I can access it any-

where” current Honors English 12 student Ryan Probasco said.

Though these courses will provide more freedom, there will be plenty of responsibility to go along with it. Students will be responsible for logging in and completing their work with few to no reminders of due dates. Luckily, whether it is online or face-to-face, the content due dates will remain consistent which should help to avoid some confusion. “[Students are] going to have to pace themselves, I’m not going to be there to tell them what needs to be done everyday,” Ms. Dellegrotti said about her online wellness class. “It’s going to be more independent on their end, so it will be a little bit more problem solving for them, as well as dealing with time management.” “[An online environment] is easier to work with because everything is in one place,” current Honors English 12 student, Sam Tankred said.

Some students are hesitant to take these courses due to the added responsibility. Some also fear that it would be more dif�icult to focus without an in-class experience. However, many are excited for this new opportunity.

“Even if I don’t end up taking it, I think it’s a cool opportunity for students to have, and I’m glad that the school is taking this step,” junior Victor Aung, who considered taking the online Honors English 12 course, said. “I think it will de�initely be something bigger in the future.”

February 2016

News

Page 3

PMEA Chorus: To Regions and Beyond

by Alex Baca

Over the �irst weekend of February, six Southern Lehigh students sang in the Pennsylvania Music Educators Association (PMEA) District 10 Chorus event, with all six advancing to regional chorus. This elite group included juniors Caleigh Schmid, Lexi Brown, Lauren Jardine, and Giuliana Augello, and seniors Luke Simons and Chris Smith. The event was held at Delaware Valley High School in Pike County.

“I really enjoyed the presence of old and new friends, along with the wonderful guest conductor, Dr. Raymond Wise,” Simons said. “He really brought out the most of the students in order to put on a successful and enjoyable concert.”

PMEA District 10 chorus is incredibly competitive. Students must compete with other singers from seven different counties via an audition to earn a spot.

“Locally, Parkland and Emmaus are competitive,” choral teacher Mr. Matthew Wehr said. “Boyertown and Stroudsburg are also competitive.”

The students from all seven counties came together to practice and put on a performance. They also auditioned for a spot in the PMEA Regional Chorus.

Brown placed �irst in soprano two, while Smith took �irst in bass two.

Jardine snagged second in alto one while Augello achieved fourth in alto two. Simons placed seventh in bass one, and Schmid took thirteenth place in soprano one.

“I really felt great about my auditions and placement,” Smith said. “Regions is a ton of work, but it should be a great time.”

Regions, which will be held at Central York High School from March 17 to 19, is even more competitive, as it includes �ifteen counties instead of seven.

At that event, students will audition to move on to states.

The 2016 PMEA District 10 Chorus. From left to right, senior Luke Simons, junior Giuliana Augello, junior Lexi Brown, junior Caleigh Schmid, senior Chris Smith, and junior Lauren Jardine. Photo credit: Lexi Brown

The Bold, The Brave, and The Bald

by Emily Oberlender

February 1 marked the beginning of the month long Pennies for Patients fundraiser for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. The event, hosted at Southern Lehigh High School by National Honor Society (NHS) juniors, culminates in select teachers shaving their heads during a February 26 pep rally.

“We just try to get as much money as we can to donate to the organization,” National Honor Society fundraiser president Lauren Cocozza said.

To raise money, the National Honor Society set up boxes in every teacher’s homeroom where students could drop their spare change. NHS juniors also went around with collection jars speci�ically during Wednesday lunches and asked for donations.

“I think it’s really heartwarming to see the school come together and donate,” National Honor Society adviser Mrs. Lynne Kelly said.

To encourage students to donate, 11 teachers volunteered to shave their heads at certain checkpoints.

English teacher Mr. Joseph Castagna offered to shave his head at $250, followed by social studies teacher Mr. Paul Sabino at $500, social studies teacher Mr. David Krial at $750, science teacher Mr. Erik Steiner at $1000, English teacher Mr. Michael Fay at $1250, science teacher Mr. Jason Donnelly at $1500, health and physical education teacher Mr. Steven Schrader at $1750, math teacher Mr. Matt Greenwald at $2000, math teacher Mr. Paul Malik at $2500, social studies teacher Mr. Zeisloft at $3000, and Spanish teacher Señora Joan Imms-Geiser at $4000.

“The teachers are the biggest incentives,” Pennies for Patients public relations of�icer Talia Trackim said. “Who doesn’t want to see their favorite teachers go bald?”

Due to the incentives, the National Honor Society raised more money for Pennies for Patients than any other previous year so far, making this school year a legendary one for the fundraiser.

“We broke the all-time school record [of $1747.64],” Trackim said.

The Leukemia and Lymphoma Society will use the money to fund program services such as research, patient and community service, public health education, and professional education.

“It’s a really great cause,” Trackim said. “All the money goes to help others.”

Mr. Greenwald and Mr. Ruch walked room to room on February 19 seeking donations. To encourage students, they brought a bald and photoshopped Mr. Zeisloft’s head on a stick to show students what $3,000 would get them. Photo credit: Emily Oberlender

Left: Pennies for Patients benefits the Leukemia and Lymphoma society.

Photo credit: lls.org

The Spotlight

Page 4 Features

Dress to Impress in Solehi Fashion Show

by Allison Borelli

Come one, come all, to Southern Lehigh’s very own fashion show, hosted by the Fashion Club.

Promise yourself a fun experience by getting right to the tux of the matter by checking out the season’s latest styles for Southern Lehigh’s upcoming prom.

“I’m very excited about the event,” Fashion Club adviser and French teacher Mrs. Kaytlyn Byers said. “I’m excited to see it work out beautifully. We’ve been working really hard on it for six months.”

The fashion show will be taking place on March 8 at 7:00 pm in the cafeteria and will last for about an hour. The goal of the event is to raise money for this year’s prom at Steel Stacks.

Tickets are three dollars, with special VIP tickets getting you closer to the runway while costing �ive dollars.

“I love looking at prom dresses and I don’t know the next time that I’ll be walking in a fashion show,” senior model Lauren Wolfe said. “Also, Madame [Byers] asked me, and you can’t say no to Madame [Byers].”

The fashion show will showcase prom dresses provided by All Things Bridal, and tuxedos from Fisher’s Tuxedos. Makeup will be done by the New Attitude salon.

“I’m super excited, I think that this is

Want to be fashionably late? No problem! The doors open at 6:30 pm, but the actual show starts at 7:00 pm. Photo credit: Jocelyn Burns

more than I thought we’d ever get to do,” Fashion Club president Erin Bauer said. “We’d always hoped we’d get to do a fashion show.”

The models will either be walking, dancing, or performing skits while they showcase the clothing. All thirty-four of the models are upperclassmen, both boys and girls. Chris Smith,

the host, will also announce the brand, style, and other information about the dresses and tuxedos on display.

“I’m really excited about it, honestly, because it’s just a fun way to hang out with my friends and help out Fashion Club,” junior model Izzy Diaz said. ”I think it will be highly enjoyable, for I Iove prom dresses and dressing up, and it would just be fun.”

Not only will there be entertainment for the eyes, but also for the tastebuds. A bake sale will be held during the show. Students will also DJ during the event.

Sophomore Danielle Alpert came up with the idea for the fashion show, and approached Fashion Club with the idea six months ago.

“I am excited but I’m also a little stressed because there’s so much I have to do that is a lot more than I thought there would be,” Alpert said, “but now that we’re getting closer I feel a little more con�ident in what’s going on.”

Madame Byers, the Fashion Club, and Alpert have all been working hard to put together a fashion show that everyone can hopefully appreciate.

“I would like to see the show bring all the students together and enjoy fashion as a school,” Byers said.

Brendan Kressler Aims for Success at States

by Sarah Tribecka

Brendan Kressler, above, ranks 24th out of 146 people in the NEPARL. Photo credit: Caitlin Roth

On February 10, junior Brendan Kressler

competed at the Northeast Pennsylvania Scholastic Ri�le League (NEPARL) State Individual Qualifying Match, achieving a combined score of 383 out of a possible 400 points, and tying for eighth place. This success granted him the opportunity to represent Southern Lehigh at the Pennsylvania State Scholastic Individual Smallbore Ri�le Championship, held on February 11.

“It was de�initely a huge milestone to pass,” Kressler said. “I felt excited yet nervous at the same time.”

NEPARL, which consists of high schools including Berwick, East Stroudsburg North, East Stroudsburg South, Emmaus, Freedom, Liberty, North Pocono, Salisbury, Stroudsburg, and Southern Lehigh, has teams compete using .22 caliber bolt-action ri�les to shoot at a USA50 Target. Shooters are given 15 minutes to complete the target. Post season concludes with the NEPARL All-Star Tournament and State Individual and Team Championships.

Senior Lisa Croissette placed fourth in the All-Star Tournament, and Croissette and Kressler placed second overall for the team competition.

“This year I felt I was way more consistent with my scores. I also felt more relaxed when shooting, so the stage fright went away. As a senior, I feel like the All-Star Tournament was the perfect send off for me,” Croissette said. “I’m also really proud that Brendan went so far in the state tournament since he showed superior skills from his freshman year. Now that he’s had more time to improve, I �irmly believe he could go all the way next year and take it all.”

To wrap up the season, Southern Lehigh ranked �ifth out of tenth in NEPARL, with a total of �ive wins and four losses.

“The team as a whole de�initely plans to continue to improve throughout the years,” ri�le team coach Mr. Robert Gaugler said.

Three Solehi Cheerleaders Perform with All-American Team in London During Break

by Danielle Alpert

While most Southern Lehigh students were enjoying winter break at home, three high school cheerleaders were in London cheering. On December 26, senior Jordan Munoz, and juniors Kaitlyn Torcivia and Felicity Levy �lew to London to cheer on the All-American team.

“The All-American team is a group of cheerleaders and dancers who try out for the squad across the country,” Munoz said.

Out of the 650 cheerleaders and dancers chosen from across the country, three of them were from Southern Lehigh. This is the �irst year that SLHS cheerleaders got to be on the All-American team.

While they were in London, they were able to see the classics sights such as Big Ben, the

London Eye, as well as Platform 9 ¾ and Abbey Road. The trio also had the opportunity to watch “Wicked” performed with English accents. Apart from sightseeing and eating English foods, they all enjoyed performing in the London parade.

“The overall experience of meeting new people was amazing,” Torcivia said.

“In London they don’t have cheerleaders,” Levy said, “so when we performed there they had so much joy and excitement in their faces.”

All three cheerleaders agreed that having this experience was more of an accomplishment than anything.

“It was more of a pay off to see all of my hard work that I have done to have the opportunity to be able to perform in London,” Munoz said.

Jordan Munoz, left, Felicity Levy, middle, and Kaitlyn Torcivia, right. Photo credit: Lewis Munoz

Features

February 2016

Page 5

The inspirtaion for this photo is Diane Arbus, an artist who specializes in macabre photos. Photo credit: Caitlin Roth

Solehi Artists Achieve the Key To Success

by Jamie Kish

Many students at Southern Lehigh are pro�icient at drawing, painting, photography, calligraphy, poetry, and many other forms of visual art. The Scholastic Art Awards gives these students an opportunity to broadcast and receive recognition for their talents.

Twelve Southern Lehigh students entered their artwork into the East Central Pennsylvania regional competition which includes submissions from Lehigh, Northampton, Carbon, and Berks counties. The eleven Solehi students who received awards were senior Amanda Andreucci, junior Lexi Brown, senior Jocelyn Burns, freshman Sophia Buonanno, senior Kaitlyn McAuliffe, sophomore Maggie Moerder, senior Jordan Munoz, seniors Alec and Peter Natkin, senior Mason Pellegrini, and junior Caitlin Roth. Eight of the eleven winners won Gold Key awards, and Alec and Peter Natkin won awards in particular for their comprehensive Art Portfolios.

“I was very surprised that I won,” senior Amanda Andreucci said, “I entered the competition last year and didn’t receive any awards.”

First held in 1923, the Scholastic Art Awards are the oldest art competition in the United States. Visual art pieces must be submitted to a regional competition before a set due date, when a panel of judges evaluates their

work. Students can receive an honorable mention, a Silver Key award, or a Gold Key award.

“I feel relatively con�ident in my artistic abilities,” junior Lexi Brown said. “A lot of what I do involves a lot of experimentation. If it happens to turn out good, that’s great. It’s trial and error, mostly.”

The eight Solehi students who received Gold Key awards will be moving onto a national competition in New York City, where their work will be judged alongside other Gold Key recipients from other regional competitions. The winners of the national competition will be announced on March 14. Throughout the month of April, the regional winners’ works, including those from Southern Lehigh, will also be on display at the Lehigh Valley Charter High School for the Arts.

Many of the Southern Lehigh students who won awards at this year’s competition plan to compete again next year.

“I want to be a little bit more experimental with my photography next year,” junior Caitlin Roth said. “I like to think of my work as ‘the weirder, the better.’”

Turn to the back page for more award-winning artwork!

Photo credit: Jocelyn Burns

Photo credit:Kaitlyn McAuliffe

Page 6

The Spotlight

Opinion

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

Staff Editorial: Letter from the Editor As the editor-in-chief of the Spotlight, my job is to review and edit all of the articles, oversee the page editors, and manage the content that goes into the paper. Long story short, I see everything. I also hear everything.

I am well aware that many of our recent opinion articles have been very controversial and have sparked many mixed opinions. We love getting feedback, even if it isn’t always positive. Our mindset is that if no one talks about the paper, we aren’t doing our job right.

However, whenever I, and the rest of the staff, have responded to these negative commenters by asking them to write a letter to the editor, many people have responded in surprise. We’ve even had people say that they don’t think their letters would be published because they aren’t liberal.

I would just like to make one thing clear: the Spotlight is not a liberal publication. We do not align with any sort of ideology, and we are not trying to enforce a certain way of thought.

All of our news, features, our world, and sports articles are unbiased. We cannot take sides or promote our opinions in any of these types of articles. In our last issue we had a great example of this, as Sarah Trebicka’s article on gun control accurately addressed both sides of the debate.

Letter to the Editor: Clubs Deserve Attention Too

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 The Speech and Debate Club has earned numerous recognitions over the years. Photo Credit: Devon Wolfe

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

However, these rules of objectivity exclude the opinion section. In the mission statement, located directly on the opinion page, it clearly states that all bylined editorial articles ( articles written by individual student journalists and contributors) are re�lective of that student’s opinion, not the publication’s or school’s opinion. An unsigned staff editorial re�lects the consensus of the Spotlight editorial staff on a particular topic of our concern.

It is because of this that we would love to hear from those that don’t agree with us. If you disagree with an article or have an opinion on something completely different that you think is worth sharing, I encourage you to write a letter to the editor. We are well aware that we are a predominantly liberal staff, but that doesn’t mean that we aren’t open to new opinions. We are willing to publish everything, regardless of what the content is, or whether or not we agree personally with your stance. Our only exception is if it promotes hate or violence.

We value the fact that everyone is allowed to have their own opinions and that everyone has a voice. If you would like to write a letter to the editor, please email it to Mrs. Spritzer at spritzerm@slsd.org or the Spotlight at slsdspotlight@gmail.com.

Dear Editor, As a student of Southern Lehigh, I have been able to watch this school grow as I did.

Throughout my time here, extracurricular clubs and activities have played a huge role in my life. Not too long ago, I found my niche and met some of the most amazing people. People I never would have thought to talk to previously.

I became more interested in my classes, and my grades even improved. Sadly, I soon began to notice the lack of recognition that the club

received, and for a while, I ignored it. I made excuses for the lack of announcements and pushed it out of my mind, up until a few days ago, when I realized that it wasn’t just occurring with “my” club. Multiple activities were being ignored to an even greater extent. This disturbing pattern was one that applied to all Academic Clubs. Now, to many, this may not seem like a “big deal”. It most de�initely takes skill and talent to play a sport, or participate in a music program, and I am in no way attempting to diminish the importance of those activities. However, academic clubs prepare just as much as these other activities and do not get nearly the same amount of acknowledgement.

I watch my teammates put their blood, sweat, and tears into what they do, and it honestly breaks my heart when they don’t get the slightest bit of gratitude. Let alone, the amount of time and effort my coach puts into a team that they are not �inancially compensated for. These academic programs stimulate the mind, and overall make those that participate in them better people, and doesn’t that deserve appreciation? And so, my aim is not to reduce the attention paid to the music programs or even the athletic teams, but to increase the amount of respect given to the academic activities. After all, the body will wear away before the mind ever does.

-Melissa Stough, Sophomore

February 2016

Opinion

Page 7

Hollywood Needs Minorities As I Was Saying

by Izza Choudhry

by Emily Oberlender

Growing up as a woman of color, I always wondered why I didn’t look like anyone that was on TV. Although the American population is extremely diverse, Hollywood lacks racial representation. For instance, how is it possible that a show like “Friends,” which takes place in New York City, has an entirely white cast?

“People look up to Hollywood stars, so people that are diverse need someone to look up to,” sophomore Rabia Khan said. “If they’re all white, they won’t have much to look up to. They won’t have much representation for their race and culture.”

Even in a rare occasion where a show does have a diverse cast, they are stereotyped. There is always a super geeky Asian, or a sassy black woman.

Latinos, which are the largest minority group in America, are often overly sexualized or portrayed as non-English speaking maids and gardeners, rather than wealthy, successful, and well-educated characters. Their characterization is de�ined by stereotypes about their race only for comedic purposes.

“I would say there is diversity in actors,” physics teacher Mr. David Long said. “But there isn’t diversity in the upper areas of Hollywood, such as producers and directors. For example, the academy is primarily white males. That is the old regime. There is diversity in actors; the problem is they aren’t being recognized.”

Another issue of diversity is whitewashing, when a white person is granted a role that should’ve been for a person of color. Whitewashing promotes the idea of white supremacy, and that European features and light skin are the epitome of beauty.

Disney is planning on creating a live-action version of the Disney animated �ilm “Mulan.” A petition with over 20,000 signatures calls for Disney to avoid whitewashing in the casting of this movie.

“Whitewashing, the practice of casting white Caucasian actors and actresses in roles originally meant to be characters of colour, is all too common in Hollywood,” children’s librarian Natalie Molnar, who started the petition, said.

“The Last Airbender, Pan, the upcoming Ghost in the Shell adaptation, and many, many others have demonstrated this problem.”

For the second year in a row, the Academy has failed to represent minorities in their nominations for the 2016 Oscars. This was a shock to many, considering the numerous Oscar-worthy �ilms featuring people of color that came out this year, such as “Creed,” “Straight Outta Compton,” “Tangerine,” “Beasts of No Nation,” and “Concussion.”

“Children won’t feel accepted when they’re blinded by a common ideal of skin color on screen,” sophomore Kara DeWeese said. “Their lives are strongly impacted by what they see in the media. So, if they don’t see diversity, how are they supposed to feel accepted?”

At the 67th Emmy awards, Viola Davis, who is the leading actress in “How to Get Away With Murder” became the �irst African-American actress to win an Emmy. The large amount of Oscar-worthy �ilms featuring people of color also shows that media is slowly beginning to incorporate more positive representation in Hollywood. Hopefully, if the amount of ethnic and racial diversity in media continues to increase, children will soon be able to see themselves in their favorite heroes and role models on the big screen.

The Friends cast provides perfect evidence of how undiverse Hollywood really is. Photo credit: Wikipedia.org Viola Davis was the first African American actress to win an Emmy. Photo credit: WIkipedia.org

Let’s Talk About Sex, Baby I �ind it ironic that Southern Lehigh was recently named a 21st century school, considering our sex education consists of pathetic teachings commonplace when SLHS �irst opened its doors in 1955. Yes, I’m referring to what we’re taught in ninth grade health: that abstinence is the solution to sex, STDs, and pregnancy. That’s like being told the best way to ace your �inals is to not study, or that the safest way to skydive is to not go skydiving.

Almost 100 percent of Americans will have sex in their lifetime. Having sex is an entirely natural part of life. Look around. Everyone you see is a result of sex and will probably have sex at least once in their lifetime.

Considering this, why do we treat intercourse like it’s some big secret? Why don’t we openly discuss it? Most importantly, why does Southern Lehigh tell us to avoid it when that is obviously unrealistic? This absurd way of thinking is taught to students as a replacement for educating with the truth. Preaching abstinence will only harm students in the long run when they’re faced with unavoidable sexual situations later on in life.

Teaching abstinence is clearly ineffective and counterproductive, considering the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention found that the average age for both males and females to lose their virginity is 17. Along with this, Guttmacher Institute conducted a survey that discovered 70 percent of teens aged 18-19 have had intercourse. These statistics make it clear that abstinence is inconsistent with the activities of modern day teens.

Moreover, the statistics show that teens need real sex education. Without these teachings, pregnancies, STDs, and STIs are more likely to be a result of sex.

Instead of avoiding the topic, Southern Lehigh should properly educate students about safe sex. This includes discussing some of the 20 contraceptive methods acknowledged by Planned Parenthood including condoms (both male and female), birth control pills/patches, spermicide, and IUDs. Along with safe sex methods, students should be taught other important information that would otherwise be unknown to them, such as the effectiveness of various birth control methods. This information is necessary for sexually active students to know, and it is the school’s job to properly educate.

While I truly believe our school district’s sex education curriculum is seriously �lawed, I cannot single out Southern Lehigh for only teaching abstinence. Guttmacher Institute found that as of 2006, 87 percent of U.S. high schools taught abstinence as the most effective method to avoid pregnancy, HIV, and STDs, while only 65 percent taught about condom ef�icacy.

Obviously, this lack of sex education is a country wide problem. Southern Lehigh should not fall victim to this ignorant form of education. Students deserve honest teachings and factual education.

Page 8

The Spotlight

Center Spread

Behind the Scenes of the Southern Lehigh

By Danielle Alpert

Caleigh Schmid

Favorite line: “It’s possible for someone to hit you hard but for it to not hurt at all.”

Funniest line: When Billy yells for someone to not yell and the other character tells him to not yell back at him.

Favorite part of being in the musical: Creating such a deep and strong bond with the cast.

Best costume: We all look pretty much the same.

There is not a best costume.

Funniest person to work with: Luke Simons Awkward line: Right before I kiss Chris I say this cheesy line.

Part name: Julie Jordan

Garrison Piel

Favorite line: “Look at them clams.”

Funniest line: “My mother had a baby once.”

Favorite part of being in the musical: The cast; we are all like a family here.

Best costume: Paul Kinyon Funniest person to work with: Michael Partington Awkward line: “Come my child.”

Part name: Mr. Bascone

Gavan Sullivan

Favorite line: “You old wobbly hipped slut.”

Funniest line: “My mother had a baby once.”

Favorite part of being in the musical: It is a great experience. The chemistry between the cast is awesome. It is an overall good time.

Best costume: the siamese twins Funniest person to work with: Chris Smith, we have a level playing �ield. We are always goo�ing off.

Awkward line: I have to carry someone, like a �ireman, like over the shoulder.

Part name: Jigger Craigin

Luke Simons

Favorite line: “Goin’ to build a little sardine cannery --- then a big one --- then the biggest one in the country.”

Funniest line: “he-he!”

It is the way I say it that makes it funny.

Favorite part of being in the musical: I enjoy all types of musicals.

Being a part of the last musical that I will be in here is amazing.

Best costume: the knife swallower Funniest person to work with: Lexi Brown Awkward line: “Get a new coat of paint, you are starting to peel. You old pleasure boat.”

Part name: Enoch Snow

Chris Smith

Favorite line: “My mother had a baby once.”

Funniest line: “My mother had a baby once.”

Favorite part of being in the musical: It is just fun and I get to do what I love.

Best costume: ‘The siamese twins.’

Funniest person to work with: Gavan Sullivan Awkward line: “Perlice magistrates.”

Part name: Billy Bigelow

February 2016

Center Spread

Page 9

High School Spring Musical: Carousel!

Lexi Brown

Favorite line: “My mother had a baby once.”

Funniest line: “My mother had a baby once.”

Favorite part of being in the musical: Being able to make new friends, working hard on something we all love and putting on an amazing show by the end of it. Also the costumes.

Best costume: All the costumes at the end of the show are really pretty.

Funniest person to work with: Luke, he is my best friend and we are scene partners and we just have a good time together.

Awkward line: I go ‘Ah-ha’ in the middle of the scene, it is just a weird interjection.

Part name: Carrie Pipperidge

Giuliana Augello

Favorite line: “And all the notions they kept shut up for the winter come whooping out in the sunshine.”

Funniest line: “Boston cream pie,” that Luke says.

Favorite part of being in the musical: I like that all of my friends are apart of it. It is very comforting.

Best costume: All the people in the ensemble are cute, I also like my dress that I wear.

Funniest person to work with: Michael Partington Awkward line: When Gavan motor boats Part name: Nettie Fowler

Performance Dates: Sloane Sexton

Favorite line: “My mother had a baby once.”

Funniest line: “You old wobbly, hipped slut.”

Favorite part of being in the musical: Everyone gets their own group of friends and everyone has a place where they belong.

Best costume: I have a really bright purple skirt.

Funniest person to work with: Nate Hallman Awkward line: I have to �lirt with Chris Smith.

Part name: Mrs. Mullen

Thursday, April 7 7:00 PM Friday, April 8 7:00 PM Saturday, April 9 7:00 PM Sunday, April 10 2:00 PM

Prices:

Adults ($10) Senior (62+)/Student/Children ($8)

Photo Credit: Emily Oberlender

Page 10 Our World

The Spotlight

SL Alumni: Where Are They Now? Vinny Mattiola

Animal Testing is Still a Controversial Topic

by Izza Choudhry

by Danielle Alpert

Vinny on his first passage on his new boat from Jolly Harbour, Antigua to Great Bay, St. Maarten. Photo credit: McKenzie Weaver

Trying to �igure out what you want to do with your life is tough, but once you �ind something that you love, the rest is effortless. For 2010 Southern Lehigh alumnus, Vinny Mattiola, the job that he loves to do is being the founder and captain of his sailing company, Dorado Adventures.

“Dorado Adventures was the natural progression from my freelance sailing charter and adventure trips I was running with my friends,” Mattiola said. “I realized that I could drum up enough interest in sailing vacations with a more formal company, so I just went at it head �irst!”

In high school, Mattiola was a determined soccer player and a dedicated member of the track and �ield team.

“He is a go-getter,” soccer coach Mr. Doug Roncolato said.

“He was always a very out-

realized I could work on boats while also seeing corners of the planet that pretty much nobody else ever sees,” Mattiola said.

“It was a win-win situation, so I just went for it.”

When he graduated from Pitt, his parents wanted him to go straight to medical school, but Mattiola felt mentally exhausted and decided to take some time off. He sailed from Norfolk, Virginia to St. Augustine, Florida with one of his friends.

“My parents weren’t stoked about that decision, but eventually they came around to agree that I just wouldn’t have succeeded in medical school at that time,” Mattiola said. “Now, my parents check in to make sure I’m still alive every now and then and have helped me out in a pinch here and there.”

Sailing de�initely isn’t all rainbows and sunshine. Mattiola once was sailing around the world, when he came across a gigantic storm. The boat’s wind indicator showed the gusts of wind to be 65 knots, before the wind indicator got ripped off by the wind.

“Technically, that’s just at the cusp of ‘hurricane,’ but the storm was never formally upgraded,” Mattiola said. “We probably saw 25 to 30 foot steep waves. It was absolutely terrifying. In those winds the ocean isn’t blue, or even black anymore; it’s just white. The sea becomes a foamy, frothy mess with streaks of sea foam whipping across the deck.

Eventually you can barely see the waves coming; you just

“I think if you aren’t scared a few times

while travelling, you’re not doing it right.” standing hard worker both in the classroom and on the �ield.

He was even a nicer person than he was a player.”

Substitute teacher Mrs. Sylvia Hinton fondly recalls him being determined, intelligent, and an overall kind person.

“I know that you have to have a lot of discipline to start and manage a successful business,” Mrs. Hinton said.

Mattiola �irst learned how to sail at Lake Nockamixon around the age of 11. In high school he would often take his friends out on the lake. Once he was in college at the University of Pittsburgh, he started a sailing club.

“I’d caught the travel bug from studying abroad and summer volunteering stints, and

hear them. We spent about 14 hours...on Azzurra, the boat I now own. I think if you aren’t scared a few times while traveling, you’re not doing it right.”

After sailing for so many years with his friends, he eventually became the captain of his own company.

“It’s really fun to be marketing and advertising my own business and working out all the logistics of all kinds of trips on whatever terms guests like,” Mattiola said. “We’re all about �lexibility, and wanted to offer a wide range of trip options, from college spring break, to luxury sailing, SCUBA certi�ication, eco-cruises, Yoga Retreats, and Learn to Sail cruises in the British Virgin Islands and beyond.”

Approximately 100,000-200,000 animals suffer and die just for cosmetics every year around the world. Photo credit: Wikipedia

Vivisection is de�ined as “the practice of performing experiments on live animals for the purpose of scienti�ic research.” Numerous companies used by students test their products on animals, such as MAC, Pantene, Maybelline, Aveeno, Febreze, Covergirl, Tide, and Clorox.

Ninety-four percent of animal-testing is used for cosmetics and household appliances, while the remaining six percent is used for medical research.

“There are all sorts of animal testing,” junior and president of Animal Rights Activists Ise Oberlender said.

“Biomedical animal testing to an extent is all right. They take every measure to not involve animals in research. However, cosmetic research is both inhumane and irrelevant, and I think just a completely immoral use of our time in the laboratory.”

Many of the common types of tests done on animals are done with no anaesthetics, so nothing is used to reduce the amount of pain the animal experiences. A scientist is not required to provide anaesthetics if they believe it will disrupt their research. “[The animals] can’t consent to it,” sophomore Sean Duane said. “Humans think it’s risky to test on humans, but they can consent. You’re just raising an animal to be killed.”

Lethal dose tests are done to determine the median lethal dose of a toxin, pathogen, or radiation that is able to kill half the members of a speci�ic tested population. During these tests, the animals are �irst administered a speci�ic dose. If all the subjects die from this, the dose is continually decreased until it causes only about half the members to die.

“When you’re talking about LD-50 doses and things of that nature, establishing those parameters are absolutely necessary if those medications are going to be used for human beings,” veterinarian Dr. Dave Ferrari said. “I understand that it is necessary under some circumstances, and my only hope is that it is done in as humane and controlled way as possible.”

The Draize eye irritancy test is a test usually performed on albino rabbits without anaesthetics. Its purpose is to determine whether products, usually cosmetics, are safe to use on human

eyes. The albino rabbits are restrained in devices that prevent them from moving their head, and are observed for up to fourteen days for signs of redness, cloudiness, ulceration, swelling, discharge, hemorrhaging, or blindness in the tested eye. The rabbits are killed after completion of the test.

“Animals are obviously different than us; their skin is different,” Oberlender said. “The animals used, especially in cosmetic testing, are especially sensitive. Rabbits have the most sensitive skin, and it’s so horrifying to these rabbits when they’re so sensitive. We are preying on and abusing the animals with no defense mechanisms.”

Many countries, including the European Union, India, Israel, and Norway have made it illegal for companies inside their country to test on animals or to sell products from foreign animaltesting companies. Other countries, such as Canada, Taiwan, and Brazil, have also proposed legislations to ban animal-testing.

“I think [companies that perform testing on animals] should be forced to explore alternatives,” Dr. Ferrari said.

“The unfortunate truth is that nothing ever gets done in a timely fashion. There are so many soapboxes out there that people are standing on saying, ‘you gotta correct this, you gotta correct that,’ and not everything can get corrected at the same time. I understand that sometimes animals have to be sacri�iced to obtain useful knowledge, but it doesn’t mean that their dignity and well being has to be sacri�iced along the way.”

In the United States, the Human Cosmetics Act was passed on June 26, 2015.

This bill will prohibit cosmetic testing on animals when it becomes effective in June 2016. Three years after its date of enactment, this bill will prohibit any cosmetic from being sold or transported if the �inal product or any component was developed or manufactured using any form of animal-testing. “[Animal testing] is a complete waste of life,” Oberlender said. “A lot of times [the animals] die and are thrown out. Human products should be tested on human people. If you’re afraid they won’t work, then why are you using the chemicals?”

February 2016

#OscarsSoWhite... Again

Our World Page 11

by Sarah Trebicka

Photo Collage Credit: Sarah Trebicka

On January 14, the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences announced its predominantly white nominations for the 2016 Oscars, most notably in the four acting categories. Despite impassioned backlash on social media and the emergence of the hashtag #OscarsSoWhite, this is the Academy’s second year in a row of failing to include minorities in their selection.

“Tonight we honor Hollywood’s best and whitest. Sorry, brightest,” host Neil Patrick Harris said during last year’s telecast of the Oscars.

Last year’s protests were mainly caused by the Academy’s blatant disregard of David Oyelowo’s fan-favorite portrayal of Martin Luther King, Jr. in “Selma.” However, Hollywood’s actions this year are much less forgivable due to a wider range of popular �ilms featuring performers of color to choose from.

“I think it’s unfair and misrepresentative of the diversity in our country. Talented people of color are too often overlooked, especially in media,” sophomore Lin Li Oechsle said. “Despite the fact that there are so many different types of people, particularly in �ilm and television, the only people shown are white. This creates a sense of disconnection between the groups shown on the big screen and the groups who are actually here.”

Researchers at the University of Southern California found that in 2014, only about 26.9 percent of actors in the 100 top grossing �ilms represented minorities.

The Academy this year bypassed Idris Elba’s performance in “Beasts of No Nation,” “Con-

cussion,” star Will Smith, Michael B. Jordan in “Creed,” and the cast of well liked N.W.A biopic “Straight Outta Compton.” Instead, the co-writers of “Straight Outta Compton,” both white, received the best original screenplay nomination.

“We cannot support it and [I] mean no disrespect to my friends, host Chris Rock and producer Reggie Hudlin, President Isaacs and the Academy,” �ilmmaker Spike Lee said on an Instagram post. “But, how is it possible for the second consecutive year all 20 contenders under the actor category are white?...We can’t act?”

In great contrast, both the Screen Actors Guild and the Producers Guild nominated “Straight Outta Compton,” and the Screen Actors Guild nominated “Beasts of No Nation” for its cast, as well as Idris Elba for supporting actor.

Additionally, the Academy nominated Sylvester Stallone for supporting actor in “Creed,” but the movie’s black lead, Michael B. Jordan, and black writer-director, Ryan Coogler, did not receive any nominations.

“The issue with the Oscars is that it is an overwhelmingly white older membership, so unfortunately they are choosing stories that represent themselves and that do not represent the best performances of the year,” English teacher Mrs. Lauren Tocci said.

According to a 2015 study by the Ralph J. Bunche Center of African American Studies, �ilm studio heads in Hollywood were 94 percent white and 100 percent male, and television network and studio heads were 96 percent white and 71 percent male.

Twitter Reacts to #OscarsSoWhite

President of the Academy, Cheryl Boone Isaacs, issued a statement on January 18 expressing her frustration and voicing her devotion to expand their membership.

“I am both heartbroken and frustrated about the lack of inclusion. This is a dif�icult but important conversation, and it’s time for big changes,” she said. “We need to do more, better, and more quickly…the mandate is inclusion in all of its facets: gender, race, ethnicity, and sexual orientation.”

Despite seemingly genuine strides and apologies made by the Academy, many people have �inalized their decision to boycott the upcoming Oscars on February 28.

“I understand the sentiment behind [the boycott]; however, for those who are nominated, it seems to put the blame on them, and I truly believe that Academy President Cheryl Boone Isaacs is trying to �ix a system which she does not completely control,” Mrs. Tocci said. “What I do support about the boycott, though, is that I think it is making people think more deeply about the fact that this is the second year in a row in which only white actors have been nominated.”

The creator of #OscarsSoWhite, April Reign, has virtually expressed her disappointment with this year’s nominations. “#OscarsSoWhite can only be recti�ied by those in power,” Reign said on Twitter. “We will continue the pressure until we see concrete examples of change.”

Page 12 Arts and Entertainment

The Spotlight

A Retrospective on David Bowie and His Work Bowie’s Acting Career

by Caitlin Roth

Photo Credit: Adam Bielawski

David Bowie was, and always will be, one of the most in�luential, innovative, and iconic artists ever to exist. His eccentric stage presence, elaborate costumes, and whimsical tunes continue to live on even after his recent passing on January 10th. However, there is more depth to this artist than just his music. David Bowie was also a star of the silver screen, spanning more than 40 different television and movie roles. As a �inal farewell to this legend, I decided to re�lect on some of my favorite roles from his vast acting career.

Perhaps his most iconic role is found in a childhood favorite of many, “Labyrinth.” Bowie plays the (wildly glamorous) character of Jareth the Goblin King who whisks away unwanted brothers and sisters to his kingdom. The main plot of the �ilm follows a young teen named Sarah who, after wishing her brother away in a �it of rage, must complete Jareth’s Labyrinth within 13 hours in order for his safe return. “Labyrinth” combines the visionary direction of famed pup-

Bowie’s Musical Career

peteer Jim Henson and the musical talents of Bowie to take audiences away to a dazzling fantasy land. While also being Bowie’s big breakout role on the silver screen, it also showed audiences and fans alike that his talents extended beyond the musical industry. His sly charisma, mischievous actions, and witty delivery entertained diehard fans and introduced Bowie to young, new fans. You could tell that Bowie had a tremendous amount of fun playing this character. However, considered a box of�ice bust back during it’s release in 1986, “Labyrinth” has continued on to become a cult classic, lasing many generations.

Two other notable roles Bowie stars as are based off of real life innovators and artists. He plays both Nikolas Tesla in the 2006 �ilm “The Prestige” and Andy Warhol in the 1996 �ilm “Basquiat.” Although the performances he portrays in these �ilms capture the artists he portrayed faithfully and perfectly, there is a second brilliance to casting Bowie. Both Andy Warhol and Nikolas Tesla were viewed as innovators and artists of their time, just like how David Bowie was of his time. All of these artists were deemed controversial by their new, outlandish ideas and inventions. While these roles were small and only shared minutes of screen time, they are an important representation of Bowie’s personality and impact on society.

For the more avant-garde cinema fans, Bowie is remembered for his role in the 1976 drama “The Man Who Fell to Earth.” In this �ilm, we follow the character of Thomas Jerome Newton, a humanoid alien, as he crash lands on Earth in search of water to bring back to his dying planet.

In order to get back to his home planet, Thomas starts a technology company worth millions of dollars so he could build a spaceship. Meanwhile, he falls in love with a young lady named Mary-

Lou and learns about ways of life on Earth.This is one of those movies that really is hard to fully explain to someone who hasn’t seen it, so I highly recommend that you check it out. “The Man Who Fell to Earth” has brilliant cinematography and strong leading performances by all main actors.

Bowie, in a role he seems to be born to play, �its perfectly as Thomas. His tall, lanky, pale appearance, orange hair, and mismatched eyes stand in stark contrast to the other characters, making him seem otherworldly without even speaking a single line. It’s a �ilm that demands multiple viewings from the audience.

Even when Bowie isn’t the star of the show, his short cameos in various movies are a delight to behold. Such examples include the hilarious walk-off scene in the classic 2001 comedy “Zoolander.” This short but sweet role has Bowie being the judge of a zany catwalk showdown between male models Derek Zoolander and Hansel, played

by Ben Stiller and Owen Wilson respectively.

What makes this cameo stand out the most to me is how Bowie is able to just fully let himself go and be a silly, self-parody of himself. It shows a great sense of humor on his part and is refreshing from his more dramatic works. Also, for me personally, it is the best scene in the entire �ilm.

Spongebob fans may remember Bowie from the episode “Atlantis Squarepantis,” in which he plays the character Lord Royal Highness. These are just two cameos in a list of many, which show his versatility as an actor. Bowie seemed to be willing to try anything, from dramatic �ilms, to animated �ilms, and even the avant-garde.

Although Bowie will mostly be remembered as the incredible musician that he was, his movies will also be remembered as a part of this multi-dimensional artist. Just like his music, his characters and �ilms will live on for all to enjoy.

by Jamie Kish

I’m proud to say that I am an aspiring musician. Ever since I picked up an electric guitar for the �irst time, the dream of performing music on stage has been bubbling in my mind and fueling my creative process. However, the process of brainstorming, writing, and performing music isn’t easy to accomplish on your own; you need someone to inspire you. For me, one of those musical inspirations was the late David Bowie.

When I was younger, my father would often listen to classic rock radio stations in the car wherever we went. The �irst time I was exposed to Bowie was when I heard the song “Space Oddity.” The psychedelic, spacey vibe the song gave off instantly captivated me, and in a way, it set the foundation for the type of psychedelic indie rock music that I plan on recording and performing in the future. I would hear “Space Oddity,” “Changes,” and “Heroes” on the radio for years before I �inally decided to sit down and listen to a Bowie album in full.

The �irst David Bowie album I listened to was one of his arguably most infamous albums, “The

Rise and Fall of Ziggy Stardust and the Spiders from Mars.” I wasn’t quite into it at the time; I was in eighth grade was more into modern indie rock music than classic rock. However, now I look back and appreciate it a lot more for how it opened my eyes more to of Bowie’s work. Over time I began listening to some of his other work, most notably “Heroes,” which I’d say is my personal favorite Bowie album. Although I often paid more attention to other artists, Bowie’s musical work still had a profound effect on my aesthetics as a musician.

One of the most amazing things about David Bowie’s work was that it was almost never the same for every album. From his �irst album to his very last, “Blackstar,” Bowie would always experiment and tinker with his sound, creating a very different experience for each album. While Bowie’s death shocked, confused, and upset many, his music will live on as an inspiration to aspiring musicians like me for years and years to come.

Photo credit: RCA Records

R.I.P. David Bowie January 8, 1947 - January 10, 2016

February 2016

Arts and Entertainment

Page 13

Oxen“free” Yourself of Twenty Dollars

by Allison Borelli

Photo credit: Night School Studio

The children’s rhyme “Olly Olly Oxenfree” takes on an ominous meaning in a new video game called Oxenfree. If you’re interested in good art, an interesting story, and a more casual gaming experience, this could be right up your...olly.

Oxenfree is developed and published by Night School studios, and it’s available on Steam for $19.99. It’s also playable on Microsoft Windows,

OS X, and Xbox One with a Playstation release date to be announced. Oxenfree has already partnered with Skybound Entertainment in a multifaceted content production deal.

Oxenfree is an indie, story driven, supernatural thriller adventure game. You get to play as Alex, the main character, who takes her new stepbrother Jonas to a party on a decommissioned military base. This all starts to fall apart when a ghostly rift is opened, and from there an interesting adventure unfolds with surprising twists and turns.

Although Oxenfree is not perfect, it does have a lot going for it. This is not a stereotypical, cliche-�illed horror game, but instead one with a unique story and interesting plot. The art, design, and animation of the game is pretty good, and an interesting radio mechanic provides another intriguing spin. The characters talked a lot, and through that their personality shines through: I actually ended up caring for most of the characters by the end of the game. The game only expe-

rienced one or two glitches, and nothing crazy or hard to �ix at that.

Not everything is all peaches and rainbows though. One of my biggest complaints is wanting more of an explanation for some in-game mechanics, like with the thought bubbles that would occasionally pop-up over a side character’s head with the face of another character pictured.

Second of all, there’s no speci�ic way to save. The only way to save is to enter a new area or to wait for the game to autosave. The game play sometimes feels tedious as well.

Overall, Oxenfree’s weak points lie with the actual controls of the game, and even with that there’s not too much to complain about. The story and art, however, are superb and can really draw you in. Personally, I’d give it an overall rating of an 8/10. If you don’t mind a roundabout way of saving and can appreciate good art and plot, I would de�initely recommend giving Oxenfree a try.

The Revenant “Revs” Up the Oscar Season “Revenant. noun. A person who has returned, especially supposedly from the dead” (MerriamWebster). No other title could perfectly �it the new amazing �ilm “The Revenant,” starring Leonardo DiCaprio and Tom Hardy.

In this �ilm, Hugh Glass is abandoned by his hunting troup in a deadly winter freeze after he survives being mauled by a bear. Glass must �ight for his life against the elements in one of the most intense, gory, and perfectly executed movies of the 2016 Oscar season.

Ironically, I almost didn’t even see this movie.

Advertisements were scarce and just looked like another attempt by DiCaprio to �inally snatch the elusive Oscar. It happens every award season, so originally I just brushed it off.

However, after hearing it was nominated for twelve Oscars, I just had to check it out myself and form my own opinion. It did not disappoint in the slightest. “The Revenant” combines stunning cinematography, excellent performances, and top notch graphics to create a gripping story of survival and the durability of man.

First things �irst, I’ll address the question that is on everyone’s mind. Does Leonardo DiCaprio deserve an Oscar for this performance? Absolutely.

The amount of sheer physical endurance needed for this role is amazing in itself, but DiCaprio brings it to a whole other level. His acting shows the character’s absolute desperation, but also his strength and power. “The Revenant” doesn’t have much dialogue, so you need a strong actor in your

leading role to keep the audience interested. Also, what DiCaprio goes through will make even the hardened cinema fan cringe in disgust, including eating the raw meat of buffalo, sleeping in a dead animal corpse, biting the heads off of �ish, and being buried alive.

Not only does DiCaprio show a strong performance, but so does the supporting actor Tom Hardy, who plays Fitzgerald, the deciding man who leaves Glass behind to fend for himself in the wilderness after he believes he is holding the hunting troupe back. His harsh, no-nonsense attitude makes his character believably unlikeable.You will hate him, but that shows how good his acting is. When you have such strong feelings of anger for a character, it’s because of the emotions the actor brings to his role. Both DiCaprio and Hardy are well deserving of their respective Oscar nominations.

However, my favorite part about “The Revenant” is the cinematography. The beautiful landscapes of the �ilm provide a stark contrast to the suffering our main character goes through.

Beautiful snowy landscapes, sweeping green forests, and harsh rushing waters are all �ilmed in a widescreen lens, completely engul�ing the screen. Another aesthetically pleasing aspect of “The Revenant” are the dreams, nightmares, and �lashbacks of Glass as he �ights for his survival. A hushed, calming voice is played as the backtrack while �lashes of Glass’s dead wife, son, and home pass through. It reminded me of the �ilmography

Photo credit: 20th Century Fox

by Caitlin Roth

of one of my favorite �ilm directors, Gus Van Sant.

It is beautifully shot and gives the audience a glimpse into the mind of Glass as he straddles the thin line between life and death.

Even if you have had no desire to see “The Revenant,” I highly recommend you see it. You will not be disappointed.

Photo credit: Universal Pictures

The Dynamic Duo in “Sisters” A web exclusive

by Nicole Schroy Just scan the QR code to the left for a direct link on your mobile device, or go to slspotlight.com

Page 14

Sports

The Spotlight

15 Seniors Prepare for College Athletics

By Townsend Colley

For many years now Southern Lehigh has existed as a pinnacle of academic and athletic success throughout the Lehigh Valley. This February, �ifteen of Southern Lehigh’s best competitors announced they will be taking their academic and athletic careers to the next level in college sports. From DIII to DI Southern Lehigh students are going far and wide to represent the Spartans.

of the week as well the all-area �irst team.

Bradley will attend York College, where she will play offense for a lacrosse team coming off the most successful season in program history, going 15-6 and making it to the elite eight of the NCAA tournament.

The second Spartan girls’ lacrosse player to sign with a college team is Lauren Wolfe who will play for the Division I Davidson lacrosse team in North Carolina. ’s Blake Levengood’s Wolfe was selected to ascension to the top the All-Area �irst team The 15 athletes taking their talents to the next level. Photo credit Southern Lehigh Athletic Office of Southern Lehigh every year since 2013, football is unprecedented. He backed up starting was named an Academic All-American, and was quarterback Travis Edmond for three years, and selected to play on the 2015 Under Armour unOne of the most unusual commitments this when his turn �inally came to lead the Spartans committed team. Considered a natural lacrosse year is by Olivia Searfass who will rugby at West his senior year, he quickly created his own identalent by her coaches, Wolfe’s skills should be Chester University. Since Southern Lehigh does tity, �inishing the season with 2417 yards and 28 welcomed by Davidson’s team that went just not have a rugby team, Searfass played for the TDs on 128 of 215 passing all single season pass6-10 in 2015.

Doylestown Rugby Club, winning several state ing records. Levengood committed to play for the championships and tournaments as a standout Bloomsburg University Huskies who were ranked Senior girls’ basketball leader Sydney Cyr defensive player on one of the most decorated 14th out of 16th in PSAC passing. will play for Division III Arcadia University. Cyr women’s teams on the east coast. At WCU, Searhas been one of the pivotal players that lead to fass will be joining a stellar defense on one of the The Colonial League �irst-team inside linethe success of the 2015 girls basketball team the top rugby teams in the nation. backer Dylan Niedbalski will play football this 2015 season ranked number two in the area, fall for the Millersville Marauders. Niedbalski was and she is a captain of the 2016 Colonial League One of the biggest recruits to come out of one of the driving forces to one of the top defenschampionship team, still in post-season play at Southern Lehigh this year, two-time lacrosse es in our area. During the 2015 season, the senior the time of this publication. This season she is team captain Michael Nelson had already captain accrued 26 total tackles and one interranked second on the team in points with 267. committed in 2014 to play at the University of ception and was voted team defensive MVP two Cyr’s scoring abilities should come in useful for Vermont. In his junior year, he exploded into the years in a row. Niedbalski could make an instant Arcadia University who had an underwhelming spotlight when he put up 62 goals and 22 assists impact on the struggling Marauders who �inished 10-15 record last season. en route to a berth in the 2015 Morning Call All2015 with a 2-9 record.

Area �irst-team for boys lacrosse. In Nelson the Solehi softball player Courtney Herr was a Catamounts will gain a physical mid�ielder with Ethan Price will leave Southern Lehigh as member of the 2015 Colonial League championincredible shot power and accuracy. His presence one of the most productive and dominant receivship team and was voted as a �irst-team All-Colowill be a welcome one for a team that went 6-10 ers in school history. He broke the record for nial League selection and a second team all-area last year and had a mediocre offense. most touchdown receptions in a season with 16, selection in the same year. Herr will play for the most touchdown receptions in a career with 22, Hawks at Messiah College Hawks who have been Wyatt Noone is a leader on the Spartan boys and receiving yards in a season with 1281. His one of the most dominant forces in Division III lacrosse defense, letting up only 97 goals dur2015 season earned him a unanimous spot on softball since their national championship vicing the entire 2015 season. A starter each year the �irst team All-Colonial league team, �irst team tory in 2009. Last season the team went 16-0 in he has been on the team, Noone never missed a all-area, �irst team in the Eastern PA football conregular season conference play. game. For his outstanding performance during ference, and second team all-state. Price will join the 2015 season he was selected for the Morning Levengood at Bloomsburg University and could Steffan Lindsay has been an in�luential memCall All-Area �irst-team in boys lacrosse. Noone be a critical piece to �ixing the Huskies’ struggling ber of the boys track and �ield team since his �irst will continue his lacrosse career with the Long Isaerial attack. season as a sophomore when he was the team land University Pioneers, widely considered to be MVP and led the team in points. In his junior one of the top teams in Division II lacrosse, and Few athletes at Southern Lehigh have enyear, an injury prevented Lindsay from reaching perennial contenders for the National Championjoyed the level both academic and athletic suchis peak, but he still managed to earn a fourth ship. cess that Bridget Cerciello has. During her time place medal in the Colonial League 4x1 relay. His at Southern Lehigh she was �irst-team all area coaches regard him as the top 100-meter and Hans Deutsch is a starter on the Spartans’ as a sophomore and junior for lacrosse, a team 200-meter sprinter in their tenure. Lindsay will rock solid defense that has for the most part captain her junior and senior year on the lacrosse be compete for East Stroudsburg University next played together since the fourth grade and team, lacrosse MVP as a sophomore, and named season. ultimately took the team to the District XI chamto the Philadelphia Under Armour All-American pionship. He was named an honorable mention lacrosse team her junior year. Cerciello will Shannon Livezey came to Southern Lehigh all-area defenseman in 2015. Deutsch will attend become a member of a Saint Joseph’s University as a junior and made an instant impact on the Eastern University where he will join a Division lacrosse team that struggled in 2015, going 5-11. women’s track and �ield team. She participated III lacrosse powerhouse who went 15-4 last year in numerous events and was in�luential when it and won their conference with a 6-0 record.

Four-year starter Cameron Arnold will came to points scoring. During her �irst season attend New Jersey City University where he will on the team she quali�ied for districts and the Baleigh Bradley is one of two girls lacrosse play golf for the Gothic Knights. As a freshman, Colonial League meet in which she scored 14.5 of players heading off to the world of college athArnold was the runner-up in the Colonial League 133 en route to a Colonial League title. In 2017, letics. Bradley is known as one the best passers championship, and he followed with a championLivesey will participate in track and �ield for the Southern Lehigh has ever seen, creating incredship run as a sophomore. As a junior, he posted University of California Pennsylvania Vulcans ible passes that lead to wide open goals for her the third lowest average score in the Colonial who had a successful 2015 season that saw the teammates. Bradley was a member of the 2015 League before an injury cut his season short. In team go all the way to the national championship undefeated regular season lacrosse team that his senior year, he returned as a team captain. meet in Alabama. went on to win a District XI title. Throughout her Arnold will be join a small team of golfers who career she has 105 assists, and in her junior year have progressively improved under former NJCU she was named the Morning Call’s lacrosse player grad and head golf coach Brian Ferrante.

Sports

February Issue

Page 15

Bleach, Hair Dye, Shaving, and Chlorine

By Talia Trackim

When high school graduates look back on their time spent playing school sports, they remember more than how many games they won. They remember the chants they did with the team every day before a game, the multiple sleepovers, and the teammates who became a second family. While every team shares unique customs and traditions, the boys and girls swimming team stands out as a group of kids unlike any other. “[Our traditions] make us closer to each other and boost our con�idence,” junior Lauren Cocozza said. “It makes you feel like you’re part of something special.”

The swimming team shares an abundance of special traditions that have existed for years. Each year the seniors introduce the traditions to the freshmen, and they later become responsible for passing them on.

“They’ve been going on for so long that I don’t know when they started,” Cocozza said.

Most of the traditions inspire and motivate the team before the important meets.

“Before every meet we all get together and do a cheer as a team,” sophomore Gwen Kylish said. “We usually have pasta parties before swim meets.”

Perhaps the most notable traditions include the time leading up to districts. Every year the boys team bleaches their hair a few weeks beforehand. The day before the meet they completely shave their heads, as well as the rest of their body.

“Even our legs,” junior Kevin Publicover said. “We’re guys so it’s a little weird.”

The girls participate in the district preparations by dying a streak of their hair or the tips of their hair any color they wish and having shaving parties the Thursday before the meet.

In addition to the hair removing festivities, the team also preps for districts with a spirit week.

“Each day of the week we do a different spirit day,” Cocozza said. “We’ve done mismatched day, cowboy and Indians, and girl or guy cross-dressing day.”

The team traditions go beyond celebrating games; they spend a lot of time outside of school getting to know each other and having fun.

“We have movie day at our coach’s house just for fun,” Kylish said. “On some weekends we all just hang out as a team.” “[The boys team] also has a sleepover [at the end of the season] where we tell the guys what ‘Stoyle’ means,” Publicover said. “It’s a big tradition.

Stoyle is like a top secret word that goes back to the 90s.”

Freshman Caleb Munoz poses with his bleached hair. Photo credit: Devon Wolfe

The boys’ team also adorns tracksuits and beanies for their shaved heads with the word “Stoyle” plastered across the apparel.

The team believes that the traditions have brought them closer together, making them more like a family than just a group of students. They all share a bond that unites them as a team. “[My favorite part of being on the swim team is] my teammates because some of them are pretty amazing, and if it weren’t for swimming I wouldn’t even be friends with them,” Cocozza said.

So far this season the swim team has been successful. Both the boys and the girls teams anxiously await districts and remain excited about the talented freshmen that have joined the team.

“The guys’ team is having one of the best seasons it’s had in a long time,” Publicover said.

Are You Ready For Some Hockey?

By Nicole Schroy

Southern Lehigh captain Brendan Gertz scores a goal. Photo credits Nicole Schroy

The Spartan ice hockey team played their last in-season game at The Rink at Lehigh Valley on Friday, February 19, defeating Phillipsburg 9-5.

With this win, Spartans advanced into the playoffs as the third seed. With ten wins, four losses, and two ties, they were eager for the playoff game on February 22. Unfortunately, they suffered a defeat at the hands of the Diocese team with a �inal score of 8-4.

“We played pretty well, shots were pretty even, but it didn’t end in our favor,” senior Avery Young said. “Once they began to capitalize, we lost con�idence.”

The Spartan ice hockey team consists of students from Southern Lehigh, Quakertown, and Saucon Valley. Coached by David Coder, the Spartans have found that the combination works effectively and with ease.

The Women of Winter

“I was excited for the season knowing that we were going to have a pretty good team this year,” senior Jon Hendricks said, “and I was eager to play with other people from other schools that I have played against in the past.”

Since the beginning of the year, the Spartans have worked to achieve a sense of uni�ication both on and off of the ice.

“I de�initely noticed better connection in the team. Everyone is friends, so we can all communicate,” junior Ryan Luybli said. “If someone is not doing their job, we can tell them how to �ix it on a personal level.”

Although the Spartans will not advance further into the playoffs, many of the players are excited for their next season.

“I feel like we were a strong team from the start,” junior Cullin Hawk said. “I think we’ll do pretty well next year.”

Scan the QR code for a web exclusive article about the girl’s basketball team’s storied season.

Photo credits Caitlin Roth

By Alex Baca

Page 16 Odds and Ends

The Spotlight February 2016

Scholastic Art and Writing Winners

Jordan Munoz Lexi Brown

Pete Naktin

“Silence is Only One View” -a poem

by Katie Youngs

Alec Naktin

Sophia Buonanno Maggie Moerder

“Tsunami Waves and Glass” -a poem

by Talia Trackim

Mason Pellegrini