Southern Lehigh High School 5800 Main Street Center Valley, PA 18034
NOVEMBER 2014
Volume 58 Issue 2
The Spotlight
In this
Issue:
The Halls of Solehi are Alive With The Sound of Music by Talia Trackim
Are you interested in saving energy? Find out about a new club on page 2.
Pennsylvania Keystones are now something you need to graduate. Turn to page 6 to get the full details.
Photo Credit: Christmas City Studios
Do you like good hair? Do you like good music? Check out Hozier’s new album on page 13.
Melody Portnoy and Michael Figler were crowned at homecoming. Read more about it on back page.
Want to see more?
Though I am not musically inclined myself, I can safely say that Southern Lehigh High School’s theater and instrumental students sure made “my heart come alive” with their production of “The Sound of Music.” The show ran from Wednesday, November 12th until Saturday, November 15th. “Throughout the week, as we got more comfortable in our roles, the shows got significantly better,” sophomore Giuliana Augello said. “Although there are certain things that went wrong at some points, such as certain set pieces being moved late, or props not making it onto the stage, the performances went very well.” “The Sound of Music” tells the tale of an Austrian postulate at Nonnberg Abbey named Maria Rainer, who, encouraged by the Mother Abbess, becomes the governess of the von Trapp family. The seven von Trapp children lead lives of obedience and discipline under their father Georg von Trapp, an Austro-Hungarian Navy submarine captain. Through her motherly compassion and enthusiasm, Maria finds a way to bring music and love back into the family. When World War II makes its brutal attack, Maria, Georg, and the von Trapp children tap into their bravery to flee Austria and escape the Nazis. “I think the story is heartwarming and inspiring, one everyone would love,” sophomore Lexi Brown said. Augello played the role of Maria von Trapp, while junior Chris Smith playing her lover, Georg Von Trapp, and Brown “climbed every mountain” as the Mother Abbess. Sophomore Lauren Jardine played Elsa Schrader and
junior Luke Simmons played Max Detweiler, accompanied by senior Octavia Fitz as Liesl von Trapp and senior Austin Piel as Rolf Gruber. “The thing I most enjoyed about the show was the cast,” sophomore Madeline Hoffert said. “I thought all the parts were casted nicely.” The cast delivered nothing short of excellence in terms of both singing and acting, with pieces such as Augello and Brown’s heart-warming rendition of “My Favorite Things” and the playful and cheerful number, “Do-Re-Mi” performed by Augello and the von Trapp children. The advanced and skillful opening number, “Preludium” sung entirely in Latin by the Nuns was equally mesmerizing and beautiful. “The vocals were done very well and added a great level of immersion in the performance,” senior Jake Stattel said. In addition to the talent presented on stage, the orchestra, which included high school students, added a whole new dimension of charm and sentiment to the production, proving that there’s always more to a show than meets the eye. “It was a little rocky getting all the different instruments to become a coherent unit,” sophomore Alexandra Curtis said, “but once we did that I think we performed very nicely.” The sets, the costumes, and the on and off stage action blended nicely to create an excellent fall musical.
2
NEWS
Southern Lehigh High School 5800 Main Street Center Valley, PA 18034 (610) 282-1421 x7122 slsdspotlight@gmail.com http://slspotlight.com
SPOTLIGHT
Disconnect to Reconnect With CEI
Supervised by Mr. Dougherty, the new Continuous Energy Club aims to come up with more ways to conserve and improve energy efficiency by Allison Borelli
The Spotlight is published in print and online 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. Sponsorship rates are furnished upon request.
Faculty Adviser Mrs. Marlo Spritzer
Editor-in-Chief Dana DiGiovanni
News Editor
Ashley Zamichieli
Features Editor Talia Trackim
Entertainment Editor Nicole Schroy
Opinion Editor Katie Cole
Sports Editor
Cody Heffelfinger
Our World Editor Ashley Zamichieli
In-Depth Editor Kylie Schmitt
Photo Editor Casey Asman
Video Editor Emily Kasarda
Web Editors Kylie Schmitt Robyn Somers
Copy Editor Lizzi Thom
Mr. Dougherty and Sam Bader research energy saving techniques together. Photo Credit: Allison Borelli
“Disconnect to reconnect,” junior and president of the new CEI club Sam Bader said. This is the motto for the Continuous Energy Improvement committee, a twenty-member student organization supervised by physics teacher Mr. David Dougherty. Late last year, former physics teacher Mr. Gregory Collins applied for a grant from PPL, and Southern Lehigh was awarded 50,000 dollars to find ways to reduce our carbon
footprint. “We decided the best course of action was to make a student run club for it,” Bader said. The purpose of CEI is to come up with more ways to conserve and improve our energy consumption, so we use energy more effectively. Mr. Dougherty, who inherited the club when Mr. Collins resigned, seeks to encourage students to both save energy and spend more time “in the here and now.” “Our high energy usage is a symptom of us always on the go, never being present,” Mr. Dougherty said. “So if you teach people to relax, to enjoy each other and be in the now, you get rid of those symptoms.” Make no mistake: CEI still seeks to cut down on the school's energy use, and to also help all of us from using more energy than is needed. “Right now we’re in the planning stages,” Bader said. “We’re planning on going to field trips in the area, [to schools] who have already used this initiative to become much more energy efficient than us.” CEI has a few plans in the works, one of which is an assembly to get students more involved, as well as more informed of the club’s existence to hopefully get more students involved. “[We’re] talking about measuring the daylight in each classroom,” Bader said. “And using the light sensors to balance the inside light and outside light.” CEI also participated in the Health and Wellness Expo on November 19th. The club meets every Day 3 during Spartan Period. To join, interested students should talk to Mr. Dougherty to have their Spartan Periods switched. “None of this is hypothetical. If they want a real world experience, come here,” Mr. Dougherty said. “This is where rubber meets the road, but hopefully it’s recycled rubber.”
Southern Lehigh Will Represent In the 2015 PMEA District 10 Chorus
Four Southern Lehigh choir members secured spots in the PMEA District 10 Chorus, where they will perform in an all-weekend event in January by Preston Amato Southern Lehigh athletes are not the only students who compete for awards and honors. Several Southern Lehigh students have successfully auditioned for and been offered spots in the 2015 PMEA District 10 chorus, comprised of the best high school singers from Berks, Carbon, Lehigh, Monroe, Northampton, Pike, and Schuylkill Counties. Students from these areas compete in vocal auditions to win a spot among the top 25 singers from each section of the choir: tenor, bass, soprano, and alto. “Auditions are always nerve wracking,” junior Chris Smith said. “From the moment you arrive at the venue, the competition is on.” Four of our very own choir members have secured top spots in their respective categories. Smith finished eighth in bass, while senior Drew Schell placed eighth in tenor. Among sopranos, sophomore Lauren Jardine finished 17th,
followed closely by junior Fiona Bultonsheen who placed 19th. “I felt very accomplished when I learned that I made it in,” Smith said. “At the same time it comes with a sense of responsibility, but it is all part of the experience.” For several days in January, the students will represent Southern Lehigh at the District 10 chorus event in Reading. From Thursday to Saturday, the students will mesh together in practice each day. At the conclusion of the week, the District 10 chorus will perform a concert of ten pieces piloted by a professional conductor. “I enjoy District chorus because I am surrounded by the best singers in the area, who are all very good at blending sound and making good music,” senior Drew Schell said. “It is basically non-stop singing and rehearsing all weekend, which is my favorite thing to do, so I love being there.”
“I enjoy District chorus because I am surrounded by the best singers in the area...” senior Drew Schell said.
NOVEMBER 2014
NEWS
3
What’s in the Mysterious Red Buckets? by Robyn Somers
Last May, Liberty High School went into a lockdown, and students were stuck in classrooms for hours due to a possible inside threat. Without any form of bathrooms, they had to make do with what was provided for them. Students also lacked essentials like water, food, first aid, and light sources. Using Liberty as a learning experience, Southern Lehigh School District came up with an idea -- buckets containing supplies to use for serious emergencies. “The buckets are emergency supply buckets,” school nurse Ms. Merrilyn Pysher said. “Inside there is water, a light source, toilet paper, candy, a bathroom, a tarp to create a private area, first aid kit, and anything else students and teachers might need during a lockdown.” These buckets will provide a private sanitary way to deal with issues that might come up. A bucket will be placed in every area where students and staff might be during an emergency. “[The buckets] will help eliminate some of the stress in these chaotic situations,” Officer Brian McLaughlin said. “We want to teach awareness in all aspects.” Southern Lehigh Education Foundation (SLEF) is a parent group who rallied donations from various companies for supplies, because the buckets were not proposed in the annual budget. “The buckets provide all new safe school emergency preparedness,” Officer McLaughlin said. “They are for kids who really need something during an emergency.”
A look inside a red bucket. Photo Credit: Robyn Somers
Poetic Students Attend Festival at DeSales by Talia Trackim
A group of students who attended the DeSales Poetry Festival. Photo Credit: Mrs. Sheryl Ciotti
Metaphors and similes, personification and rhythm. What exactly makes up good poetry? A group of Southern Lehigh students went to the annual DeSales Poetry Festival to find out. The festival was held on October 31st at DeSales University. Twelve Southern Lehigh students attended, led by English teachers Mrs. Sheryl Ciotti and Mrs. Kelly Howsare. Over 150 Pennsylvania high school students were in attendance. “Students were given the opportunity to express their opinions and creative ideas in a non-judgmental environment,” Mrs. Ciotti said. “Many students don’t have a platform to present their materials, and this gave them an opportunity to do so. It gave them a voice in the community.” The festival was the culmination of a poetry contest hosted by DeSales University. Students were allowed to submit up to three poems of any length, topic, or style. The winners were awarded at the festival. Southern Lehigh freshman Destiny Castillo-Merola received an Honorable Mention award for her poem, “Fitting In.”
“I was actually completely shocked,” she said. “I didn’t think I was going to get anything at all.” After the prize-winners were awarded, the students listened to the keynote speaker, acclaimed poet, Ross Gay. They also attended various poetry workshops, run by other published poets, and participated in an open-mic seminar. “I liked hearing other students’ poetry and hearing Ross Gay give a lecture,” sophomore Alexandra Curtis said. “He was my favorite part of the whole experience.” Overall, the students in attendance agreed that it was a enjoyable and educational festival. “I really enjoyed getting to hear the keynote speaker, as well as experiencing a day outside of the school with the students,” Mrs. Ciotti said. “I was able to see a different side of them, making it a very enlightening experience.”
4
FEATURES
SPOTLIGHT
Students Tap into Their Inner Creativity
Supervised by English teachers Mrs. Spritzer and Mrs. Ciotti, the Literacy and Art Society provides a free and open sanctuary for students to express their creativity. By Izza Choudry
Talia Trackim, Nicole Schroy, and Madeline Hoffert advertised the Literary and Art Society at the Healthy Living Expo. Photo Credit: Talia Trackim
Many high school students feel that there is nowhere to freely express their creativity. Now at Southern Lehigh High School they can. The Literary and Art Society is a new student-run club started this year by sophomores Talia Trackim and Nicole Schroy. “I wanted to give students an outlet of self expression, happiness, and stress relief,” Trackim said. Trackim and Schroy gained the support of English teachers Mrs. Marlo Spritzer and Mrs. Sheryl Ciotti, who co-supervise the club. “When Talia and Nicole asked me to support their club, I was excited. There
was a similar club about 10 years ago. It was a nice idea,” Mrs. Ciotti said. “This club provides an outlet for students to express themselves without criticism.” The main purpose of this club is for creative writers and artists to share their work in a safe environment, free of judgement. Trackim and Schroy aim to publish a physical magazine containing students’ art and writing pieces at the end of the year. “So far we have a good base of students, but right now we’re just working on the bases and getting more students interested,” Trackim said. All clubs have to start somewhere, but Trackim and Schroy are happy with their progress. So far the majority of the club consists of freshmen and sophomores. “Last year, there was a club called Poetry Society which was only Nicole, a girl who graduated last year, and me,” Trackim said. “We wanted to create something similar to that.” Many students agree that they often find school stumping their creativity, and that there are not many places for students to express themselves. “The overall impact I want with this club is to provide a stimulating environment for students, and a place for their creativity to shine,” Mrs. Ciotti said. “In English you have to write a certain way, but here you can freely write.” So far members are happy with the club and are excited for its future progress. “It’s a great way to promote the arts in our school,” freshman club member Savannah Tabor said. “It’s a great feeling to share your work with fellow students and get positive feedback.” The club meets during Spartan Period every Day 3 in Room 122 and is open to all who need a place to embrace their creativity.
A Look Inside the Speech and Debate Team By Savannah Tabor
Imagine waking up at 5 a.m. on a Saturday, trudging through the cold in a blazer or tie, then boarding a bus, while preparing for a long day out. For some students, this may seem like torture. To members of the speech and debate team, this is an average competition day. While forensics is offered to anyone, many people don’t typically understand what it’s all about, and imagine it as simply having rapid-fire debates with other students. While this can be true, it also involves other activities such as speech and interpretation, where you may do anything from presenting an original speech or acting out a portion of a skit. Practices are held every day after school, when team members can work on your their pieces and get constructive criticism from either speech and debate coach Mr. David Long, or other members who are willing to help. It is here where you can often find members working hard or just bonding. “We are a fairly competitive team, and by far the most obnoxious at award ceremonies. We are always supportive of our teammates,” junior Naomi Li said. After a lot of practice and dedication, students compete at different high schools on Saturdays all throughout the school year. At these somewhat nearby schools, the team spends nearly the whole day, presenting their pieces multiple times, before awards are handed out to the top competitors. At the end, they go home, exhausted. Speech and debate is different from any other club and does interest its own crowd. “The great thing about the team is that there is no typical student in the club,” Mr. Long said. “I’ve had students with strong academics, weak academics, jocks, band kids, and people who only do speech and debate. There’s no typical member.” To some, this may seem like a lot of unnecessary effort, but statistics prove it isn’t all in vain. State or national award winners have a 22 to 30
percent better chance of getting into top-tier colleges, and captains have a 60 percent higher chance to do the same, according to speechgeek.com. They also develop important public speaking, analytical, and teamwork skills. “The speech and debate team gives a welcome environment and makes you feel part of a family,” junior Angela Justin said. Forensics, or speech and debate, is a highly competitive club. Students who would like to try something new and don’t mind working hard can visit Mr. Long in Room 207 to learn more.
Students line up to recieve their awards at a Forensics tournament. Photo Credit: Talia Trackim
NOVEMBER 2014
FEATURES
5
Some New and Familiar Faces Among the Southern Lehigh Faculty Mr. Ruhf By Lizzi Thom
Mr. Siesko
Photo Credit: Nicole Schroy
Photo Credit: Nicole Schroy
Mr. Thomas Ruhf was hiking on the Vatnajokull Glacier in Iceland on his honeymoon when he received the call to set up an interview at Southern Lehigh to replace Mr. Ian Beitler, former high school gifted coordinator and social studies teacher. Prior to his recent marriage, Mr. Ruhf attended Moravian College. In addition to earning his certificate in secondary education, he majored in history with a minor in political science. He is currently working toward his masters in curriculum instruction. A Bethlehem native, Mr. Ruhf is familiar with the Lehigh Valley. He spent three years at working at Freedom High School and another three years at Wilson High School before coming to Southern Lehigh. The impressive amount of technology available at Solehi is just one thing lured him into this district. “I think that this job presents unique opportunities, such as working with students that have an ability to challenge themselves beyond the typical school day,” Mr. Ruhf said. Mr. Ruhf teaches Civics and Government, United States Cultures, and a few gifted seminars. He enjoys the gifted seminars because he feels it is more enriching to conduct the classroom in alternative manners rather than sticking to traditional methods. As Gifted Coordinator, it is Mr. Ruhf’s responsibility to meet with gifted students and their parents to develops plans that will expand their learning. The advice on post graduate plans and academic information he provides encourages his students to succeed. “I look forward to working with everyone. I think I’m approachable and here to help.” Outside of the classroom, Mr. Ruhf enjoys hiking, cooking, and being with his wife.
By Jonathan Kopinski
After a six-month leave of absence, mathematics teacher Mr. Brad Siesko has returned to the classroom and is ready to teach. He and his students are all excited for him to be back. Because Mr. Siesko teaches both math and computer science, it was a challenge to find one substitute who could teach both types of courses. For the duration of Mr. Siesko’s medical sabbatical, substitute math teacher Mrs. Heather Cray filled the position to teach pre-calc and college algebra, while math teacher Ms. Justina Viola juggled her schedule last spring, and technology coach Mr. Joseph Breisch stepped in this fall, to maintain the computer science classes. “Having to change teachers in the middle of the year is always an inconvenience in my opinion,” senior Ricky Frable said. “Since a lot of teachers have different teaching styles it can be difficult to transition from one teacher to another.” Mr. Siesko is now back in the classroom and ready to get back to work after being treated for Lyme disease which he contracted three years ago while hiking on the Appalachian Trail. “I was affected in such a way I was unable to perform simple tasks, such as logging into my computer and driving to work,” Mr. Siesko said. “The sabbatical allowed me to get correctly diagnosed and properly medicated.” Mr. Siesko said his transition back to the classroom has been smooth. “Mr. Breisch got me up to speed on my first day back, and then I was able to plan my second day,” he said. “The third day I took over, and it was like I never left.” The student body and faculty all welcome Mr. Siesko back and wish him the best of luck.
6
OPINION
SPOTLIGHT
LET’S BE Is the Dress Code Gender Biased? Southern Lehigh’s dress code is questioned once again, this HONEST: time over whether or not females are being specifically targeted. Varsity Sports vs. Gym Class By Nicole Schroy
By Ashley Zamichieli Let’s be honest: gym should not be a required class for varsity athletes. With the competitive nature of varsity sports here at the high school, gym is just a cause for unnecessary injury to athletes. Maybe I’m still bitter from being on crutches three days before my senior year of district volleyball playoffs, all thanks to an injury incurred during gym class. Nonetheless, this fall season alone Southern Lehigh won three Colonial League titles, as well as three District XI titles, and the winter and spring season sports are projected to dominate also. Each team relied on its full varsity roster to advance in league, district, and state playoffs. During the height of any sports season, practices become more intense and games consume both weeknights and weekends. Sometimes games are an hour or so away, and the bus ride to and from cuts further into the limited time one has in a day. Not only am I physically exhausted, but I’m mentally exhausted, and homework is the last thing on my mind. Thus, varsity athletes should have the option to select study hall in place of gym. As a varsity athlete myself, I’m not using gym as a cop out so that I don’t have to work out. I get more than my daily dose of cardio during practices. Gym class is only adding more exertion (and let’s not forget to mention the “gym class heroes” who try unnecessarily hard). Don’t get me wrong, however. I’m extremely competitive, and I’m the first one to participate in speedball or handball. But given the choice as to whether I could take study hall or gym, I would choose study hall. There are only 24 hours in a day and requiring athletes, who devote much of their time to a competitive sport, to take gym class is irrational. Athletes dedicate a lot of their time to sports so shouldn’t the administration dedicate more time for athletes to focus on their studies as well?
Ah, the shoulder. What a provocative sight it is. Or so it seems that way when observed according to the terms of the school handbook. Hearing “shoulders must be covered!” is now somewhat of a broken record. We hear it over and over, in faculty’s hopes for students to conceal their scandalous shoulders. However, there seems to be a thin line between what is appropriate and what is a distraction. At assemblies and other various occasions, students have been told to cover up so they are not a distraction. “Girls do not have to dress for a more satisfying environment for males,” sophomore Allyson Yanega said. “It’s not like a spaghetti strap is provocative.” Time and time again, girls have been told that they need to dress appropriately in order to refrain from being a “distraction.” Wardrobe should not ignite desire, and some feel as if the dress code is too limited. “There’s a thin line between slimming and sleazy,” freshman Anthony Campolei said. Most students follow the dress code, some with reluctance and some with ease. Despite the dress code avoiding the terms “girls or boys” in order to
refrain from being sexist, some feel as if girls are victimized. “I don’t think girls should have to dress a certain way so that guys aren’t distracted,” freshman Gabby Staub said. However, some feel that the dress code is appropriate, fair, and reasonable. “The dress code does not [victimize girls],” sophomore Jack Zamichieli said, “but we only see girls getting caught because guys do not dress inappropriately that often.” At the beginning of every year, administrators gather students in the auditorium to reinforce the dress code. It always seems that girls are targeted as students are lectured about proper attire. “The tone and attitude on the dress code in Southern Lehigh [is] shameful and quite embarrassing,” sophomore Isabel Oberlander said. “After leaving each annual assembly to reinstate the dress code, I have never not felt insulted and victimized. I really don’t see what is so hilarious about isolating girls into one stereotype, degrading them publicly, and trying to pass this off as light humor.”
Another Standardized Test?: Keystone Exams by Alex Baca
Photo Credit: www.pgsd.org
The Pennsylvania Department of Education requires students, beginning with the Class of 2017, to pass the Keystone Exams in Biology, Algebra I, and Literature in order to graduate. “The state wanted to ensure that all students across the entire state, regardless of what school they went to, was getting a certain minimum education,” assistant principal Mrs. Beth Guarriello said. “The state uses the Keystone scores to rate teacher effectiveness and school performance. Schools are judged on a variety of factors, including Keystone scores, student growth and progress, attendance, graduation rate, and some others.” Despite how the Keystones help show that students are learning certain important information, the exams place unnecessary stress on students. In order to pass, students must score either proficient or advanced. Those who do not pass within two tries have to complete a project based assessment or
retake the exam. Many students, however, feel that the Keystones should not be made a mandatory part of student’s graduation. “I think you shouldn’t have to pass the Keystone to graduate,” sophomore Michael Moyer said. “Every class ahead of us never had to pass them, and because we now have to worry about passing these tests, it could affect other grades because we are stressing about these tests.” Others agree that while the exam provides an acceptable assessment of what students have learned, it may not be effective when implemented as a requirement for graduation. “I understand the value of the tests and assessing students’ knowledge of the curriculum they learn in school, but I’m not sure that it is necessary to make it a graduation requirement,” English teacher Mrs. Amy Bausher said. “I personally feel I haven’t had enough experience with the Keystone Exam yet to determine if it should be a graduation requirement.” On top of these state-mandated standardized tests, students still have to complete the graduation project in CTA. In my opinion, how students perform within classes, rather than how well they are able to perform on a standardized test, should not determine whether they graduate. They should not have to worry about passing a standardized test that may prevent them from graduating. “Students may be stressed about passing, depending on who they are,” Mrs. Bausher said. “But I treat the Keystone Exam like any other test or exam. So I encourage my students to try their best.”
NOVEMBER 2014
OPINION
7
6 Ways to Help You Get Over the Bitter End of Your High School Athletic Career By Dana DiGiovanni
So, your senior season ended. You always knew it was going to happen someday, but you didn’t think today you would drop the label of “high school athlete.” Sure, you’re allowed to be sad now, and we all have to get over it eventually, but there’s no need to do it alone. Here, take these tips with you!
1. Look to your fellow seniors for comfort. Look around you. There are other teammates who are going through the exact same thing as you. You can reflect on all the memorable times you’ve had in these four years together. At first, you can be sad together. But later, you can be happy together. I know it’s super lame and cheesy to say “don’t be sad that it’s over, smile that it happened,” or “all good things must come to an end,” but they’re actually kind of true. 2. Go to the diner. There’s nothing the Coopersburg Diner can’t fix. Just imagine a stack of chocolate chip pancakes, home fries, and a side of bacon. Breakfast can mend broken hearts, turn that frown upside down, cure cancer, uncover the meaning of life, and save the world all within your budget. 3. Wear a sweatsuit all week. Enough said. 4. Don’t forget about the banquet. While your season is over, you still get to reunite as a team one last time at the banquet. You get to dress up, relax, and reminisce with your best friends and family. And since you’re a senior now, you will most likely get a ton of free stuff. Free stuff is the best stuff (besides breakfast, of course). 5. Think of the positives you still have in your life. Yes, one happy thing in your life came to a close, and that is sad, but
Playing sports in college is an option once your highs school sports career has ended. Photo Credit: Roshan Yadama
you have so many other happy things to smile about: puppies, rainbows, walking, running, dancing, Netflix, summer, Target, Pop Tarts, socks, sunflowers, air, and Spotify. While it may seem like the end of the world, trust me, it’s not. 6. There’s still college. If college is in your agenda for the next four years of your life, you will most likely be able to continue playing your sport. And you don’t have to be a Division 1 athlete for this to happen. Fortunately, many schools offer club or intramural teams that will allow you to play on after high school.
Putting an End to Derogative Name Calling By Allison Borelli
The Gay-Straight Alliance (GSA) club. Photo Credit: Allison Borelli
“That’s so gay,” a student erroneously mutters beneath his breath, cursing the homework he’s been given. “What’s wrong with that?” you may be wondering. To put it simply: everything. “The issue with the [negative] use of the term [‘gay’ or ‘fag’] is that people are not really aware that they’re even using it at times, let alone its negative effect,” GSA adviser Ms. Kate Schartel said. “So what I usually do is that I tell them that unless they’re referring to a bundle of sticks or a cigarette, they need to make a better word choice.”
FOLLOW US ON TWITTER @SLSDspotlight
Too many people use “fag” and “queer” as a derogative. I could ramble on and break into a million different various points, but I’m just going to stick with the best way to solve the problem: awareness. “I’m kinda grossed out when people use [gay] as an insult,” junior Ada Steward said. Calling someone gay to hurt them is what’s wrong; this creates negative connotations for people who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, or transgender (LGBT). There’s nothing wrong with being LGBT, yet calling someone gay to hurt them helps promote this fallacy. “At one point I will please ask them to watch what they’re saying,” sophomore Kataunna Sell said. “There are certain people that do get hurt.” Instead of calling homework or something else “gay” because you don’t like it, use a more preferable and accurate word choice. You’re getting an education for free, so use it. “The main thing is educating about the potentially negative effects of using ‘fag’ as an insult, because in most cases people will say ‘well ‘I'm not homophobic, I’m just saying it ‘cause it’s just a thing that people say,’” Ms. Schartel said, “but the issue is, it shouldn’t be a thing that people just say.” To use words such as “gay” and “fag” as derogatives damages society and people in unseen ways. Whether it’s hurting someone emotionally, or laying down a dangerous “monkey see, monkey do” behavior for the younger generation, this bigoted and unfair pattern can’t continue.
WANT TO SEE MORE?
8
CENTER SPREAD
S K C A H LIFE
#1
Put your ice cream in a big Zip Lock bag before freezing it. This will keep it soft like when you bought it, and will never bend your spoon again!
S K C A H LIFE
#18
On PrivNote.com you can write someone a text message that will self-destruct after they read it.
S K C A H E LIF
#44
S K C A H LIFE
SPOTLIGHT #23
Do a google IMAGE search for “Atari breakout”. You’re welcome.
S K C A H LIFE
#90
If you ever get caught being chased by a Crocodile run in a zig zag pattern. They have trouble making any kind of sharp turns.
S K C A H E LIF
#144
It’s hot chocolate season again, but if you really want to make the best hot chocolate this year try warming up milk with Nutella.
Use ice cubes to remove gum from your hair. It will harden the gum, making it much easier to remove. You can also use this method for getting gum off the soles of your shoes.
S K C A H E LIF
S K C A H E LIF
#77
Adding “gif” before the word “youtube” in the URL allows you to create your own gif with the video.
S K C A H E LIF
#96
Wake up with a sore throat? Mix hot water, 2 TBSP honey, 2 TBSP vinegar, dash of cinnamon, and 2 TBSP of lemon juice. Mix well and drink. You’ll feel better within the hour.
#05
Find a lost driver’s license? Drop it in the mailbox and USPS will deliver it to the intended recipient. Plus you will get some good karma.
S K C A H LIFE
#381
Can’t find anything to watch on Netflix? Try using NetflixRoulette. net. Enter your interest, click spin and they’ll give you something awesome to watch.
S K C A H LIFE
On PizzaCodes.c your location, t a discount code pizza p
S K C A H LIFE
Icy sidewalks or s spoon of Dawn dis tablespoon of rub half gallon of hot icy areas and it w eat/chip the concr
S K C A H LIFE
Need to quickl problem? The P will solve it by your camera a
S K C A H LIFE
You can stop musi your iPhone after of time. This is esp you want to go to but not wake up to Timer, set a durati option “Sto
S
K C A H E F LI
Roommate’s ph ing off? Call th will turn
NOVEMBER 2014 #174
com if you input they’ll give you e to the nearest places!
#93
steps? Mix 1 teashwashing liquid, 1 bbing alcohol, and t water. Pour over won’t refreeze or rete like salt does.
#16
ly solve a math PhotoMath app simply pointing at the problem.
#145
ic from playing on r a certain period pecially helpful if sleep with music, it. Go to Clock --> ion and select the op Playing.”
#222
hone alarm goheir phone. It n it off.
S
K C A H E F LI
CENTER SPREAD #38
Need to cite a quote from a book? Don’t bother looking through every page to find it, simply type it into Google Books. It will tell you the page number automatically.
S K C A H LIFE
#300
When doing sit-ups if you place your tongue on the roof of your mouth it will stop you from straining your neck.
S K C A H E LIF
#102
Have a paper due? Need to not get distracted by the internet? KeepMeOut.com lets you block sites for certain periods of time, so you’ll stay focused on the task at hand.
KS C A H E F LI
#10
On Musicovery.com you can find new music based on your current mood.
S
K C A H E F LI
#72
Have a package on it’s way? On BoxOh.com you can track it’s exact progress and route on Google Maps simply by entering your tracking number.
S K C A H E LIF
9 #51
Psychologists say that when meeting someone for the first time, you only have about 7 seconds to make a powerful first impression. So make it count!
S K C A H LIFE
#03
Here’s a list of website where you can get textbooks for free. 1. TextbookNova.com 2. eBookee.org 3. ManyBooks.net
S K C A H E LIF
#31
Need a speaker? Put your iPhone in a glass cup it will project the sound.
S K C A H E LIF
#254
If you write a letter to a Disney Character, they will send an autographed 8 x 10 picture back. Here’s the address.
10
OUR WORLD
SPOTLIGHT
Fighting Ignorance Helps Global Nomads Win
Last year, Southern Lehigh freshmen teamed up with Mrs. Quartuch in an effort to interact with students from the Middle East and their documentary won its respective category
by Emily Oberlander
Photo Credit: Emily Oberlander
In October, Southern Lehigh High School’s Global Nomads participants won the Global Citizens in Action Youth Media Festival 2013-2014 with their film, “Fighting Ignorance - A Short Documentary.” Through a live broadcast in Kabul, Afghanistan, it was announced that the eight-minute documentary made by SLHS students won the category, “Media, Diversity, and Tolerance.” The Global Nomads Group, which connects students in North America to students in Pakistan and Afghanistan, hosted the competition. During
the spring of 2014, the organization asked over 520 participating students from around the world to summarize what they learned from their experience video chatting with students from other countries. A team of 26 SLHS freshmen, lead by social studies teacher Mrs. Katie Quartuch, entered the contest. The short film focuses on the wall of stereotypes that separates the United States, Pakistan, and Afghanistan. In the video, many participants from the underclassmen group express how the multiple video chats expanded their understanding and knowledge of the Middle East. Students explain how media alters information and controls what Americans think about other countries. “[The film] is about how [the students] felt that they were ignorant about people in Afghanistan and Pakistan and how media helped fuel this ignorance,” Mrs. Quartuch said. “They reflected on how much they learned from the experience and how much they changed as a result.” Sophomore Isabel Oberlender volunteered to make the documentary, despite not actually participating in the Global Nomads program. For her, this experience was a way to express her passion for filmmaking, while also learning a great deal about Middle Eastern stereotypes from her 26 peers in Global Nomads. “The video I created for this project was from a very personal vantage point,” Oberlender said. “The United States media gears individuals towards Middle-Eastern bias.” For winning in the “Media, Diversity, and Tolerance” category, the school received a certificate, and was mentioned on the live broadcast in Kabul, Afghanistan. According to the Global Nomads students at Southern Lehigh, the certificate is not the most important trophy. The best award is the experience they took away, breaking stereotypical barriers with children in Middle Eastern countries.
Students and Teachers Talk Smart Phones by Sarah Trebicka
For some students, spending a day without a cell phone is absolute torture. For others, it’s a regular, everyday thing. Is a cell phone an important tool for students, or is it just a time-wasting distraction? Just look around: saying that only some students have smartphones would be a massive understatement. Many students got their first cell phone when they were just 11 years old. Texting appears to be the main use for cell phones, raising an additional question: why texting? Why not face-to-face conversations, or phone calls? “Talking on the phone is way more awkward,” freshman Sarah Olson said. “It’s like you have to commit to talking to them the whole time. If I’m just texting them, I can be like, ‘Oh, I have to go take a shower,’ and then just go text other people and they wouldn’t know.” “It’s like hiding behind a wall of privacy,” sophomore Kayley Hartz said. “You don’t have to look people in the eye.” Thirty-seven percent of teens aged 12-17 own smart phones, according to a 2013 study conducted by Pew Internet and American Life Project. This percentage value has shown a 14-percent increase since the same study was conducted in 2011. “They can be distractions, but they’re super useful,” freshman Temple Coldren said. “You have the world at your fingertips.” “By owning a smartphone, you have an awful lot of access,” social studies teacher Mrs. Katie Quartuch said. “Often times, that’s either helpful or empowering.” “There’s so much to do with a smartphone,” sophomore Cody Chandler said. “You can easily contact people by sending out a text, or you can just goof around with fun apps.” Seventy-four percent of teens who own smartphones have mobile access to the Internet. Smartphones may quickly become a replacement for computers, further causing the number of teenagers with smartphones to skyrocket. “If you have you go on your laptops to look things up in class, I don’t really see the difference of having you go on your phones,” Mrs. Quartuch said. “Also, sometimes I think because of problems laptops can cause, phones are relatively good alternatives.”
While some see the pros of smartphones as useful devices, as well as a fun way to kill time, others see there are cons, too. “Smartphones can be both distracting and addictive. It seems like most people would rather be on their phones than interact with the actual people around them,” English teacher Mrs. Kelly Howsare said. “This is especially true for students who might prefer playing a game or chatting with friends than listening to a teacher giving instructions. The latter takes more discipline, effort, and concentration, things not usually required with a smartphone.” Studies show that it’s physically possible to be legitimately addicted to your smartphone. According to a study conducted by the professor of leadership at the Harvard Business School, 44 percent of managers and professionals said they would experience a great deal of anxiety if they lost their phone and couldn’t replace it for a week. Seventy percent said they check their smartphone within an hour of waking up, and 58 percent said they also check it within an hour of going to sleep. “I think we’re addicted to our smartphones mainly because of social media,” freshman Jeanne Haverhill said. “You can easily just tap a few things on your screen and see what your friends are up to.” “People are uncomfortable with solitude. Most people wouldn’t be able to just stand there [and wait for a friend] and look around aimlessly or make eye contact with others passing by. It’s just uncomfortable.” Mrs. Quartuch said. “So, [having a smartphone] makes it easy, because you have the option to just go on your phone and distract yourself from being alone. People find comfort in being on social media.” “I think students, and adults, are addicted to smartphones because they provide instant gratification. People can look up anything or contact anyone by hitting a button,” Mrs. Howsare said. “Using such a device doesn’t take much effort or concentration; it’s easy, which isn’t always a good thing.” It’s definitely no exaggeration that smartphones are growing in popularity among teenagers. But are they distractions that condone losing the meaning of face-to-face conversations, or are they useful devices that provide access to the world at our fingertips?
NOVEMBER 2014
OUR WORLD
11
Fountain Hill Elementary Homework Club
National Honor Society has initiated a homework club at Fountain Hill Elementary school where giving back to the community counts in more ways than one by Ashley Zamichieli Members of National Honor Society (NHS) have started a homework club at Fountain Hill Elementary School, helping students in fourth and fifth grade. Each Tuesday members of NHS meet with these students from 3:30 until 4:45 assisting them with homework, completing crafts, and playing various activities. The high school students first assist the kids with math or reading homework assignments; once their homework is complete they usually complete a craft. If time permits the kids also love playing quick games of kickball, foursquare or heads up seven up. Since the homework club meets every week, NHS students try to pair up with the same child each time, so there is a level of comfort between the pairs. Helping these kids each week means the world to them and it’s a great way to give back to the community.
Photo Credit: Ashley Zamichieli
Solar Roadways Are the Newest Energy Saver
Solar Roadways provides a method of converting solar energy into electricty through sturdy panels which are to be placed along roadways, parking lots, and more in the future by Robert Bloss and Mitchell McColl
Photo Credit: SolarRoadways
Have you ever thought that maybe we as humans waste energy? Energy is of course the foundation of what keeps the world running nowadays. But, what if the solution was right under our feet and wheels? Solar Roadways is what they’re called and their presence is beginning to be discovered. Solar Roadways provide a method of converting the sun’s light into electricity by building sturdy panels that can be put together to form roadways, parking lots, and other pavement sites.
These panels are not the commonly known panels seen on roofs of buildings or in solar fields; they are hexagonal panels that have strong LED lights built into them. These LED lights can portray the yellow driving lines, parking lines, warning signs, and even sports lines (like on a basketball court) -- pretty much anything you’d see on normal pavement. Solar Roadways are individual panels, so instead of having to repave entire roads or patch up little areas, making it all bumpy, each panel can be individually replaced if not functioning properly. These panels are also self-powered and maintain a temperature a few degrees above freezing, which eliminates problems like snow and sticking to roads and driveways, and eliminates the need to shovel. This is a relatively new idea which is going to take a lot of time until it is up and running effectively and efficiently, with more work, we could expect to see installation in large districts in the next few years. The Solar Roadway industry has put a lot of emphasis on the younger generation needing to take on this task and get the roadways going. “This is a really cool idea and I think that it could have a massive impact if it catches on,” junior Jacob Steirer said. “I support the idea and I’m all for making it happen.” Some say that if all the roads in the U.S. were replaced with solar roadways, we could produce three times as much energy as we have today. “A vast majority of the energy we have comes from the sun, so it only makes sense to use it,” science teacher Mr. David Dougherty said. Solar Roadways have received criticism regarding the ratio of cost to the amount of energy being produced. “We are too concerned with the immediate effects,” Mr. Dougherty said, “that we are blind to what could be in store for the future of our planet.”
What’s IN and OUT? IN OuT
Winter Coats Bean Boots Snow Basketball Season Blanket Scarves
School Keeps AC On Cultris Rainy Days Fall Sports Ariana Grande
12
ENTERTAINMENT
SPOTLIGHT
An A Cappella Group Worthy of an A+ By Brandyn Berean
Photo Credit: itunes.com
What is the definition of an a cappella group? It is a group or solo act that sings a song without the aid of any instruments. Multiple voices makes a combination that is a must hear. Pentatonix, originally from Arlington, Texas, is a five-member a cappella group that consists of three singers, a beat boxer, and a bass. The members are Scott Hoying, Mitch Grassi, Kirstie Maldonado, Avi Kaplan, and Kevin Olusola. The group’s main singers, Hoying, Grassi, and Maldonado, grew up together and attended the same high school. Kaplan, a friend of Hoying, has such a deep voice that he mimics the bass for each song while Olusola, discovered on YouTube, does the beat boxing. In 2011, the group won an a cappella singing competition called The Sing Off. What set Pentatonix apart was that most other groups had more than fifteen members, while they only have five. Since then, Pentatonix has released six studio albums including “PTX
Vol.3,” released on September 22, 2014. Their latest album includes seven tracks, varying from original songs to covers of popular songs. Their hit “Problem” is the first track on the album. It is a cover originally recorded by Ariana Grande featuring Iggy Azalea. In this song, Hoying is the featured main singer because of his pitch similar to Grande. Two other great parts of the song are when Grassi raps and when Olusola and Kaplan perform the chorus. Olusola beat boxes and sings the words, “one less problem without you,” while Kaplan lays down a great bass vocal. The group also recorded covers of Clean Bandit’s “Rather Be” and a mash-up of Naughty Boy’s “La La La” and Disclosure’s “Latch,” which the group named “La La Latch.” The songs originally featured British standout Sam Smith. On this album, however, Pentatonix did something completely different that anything have done before, recording a song entirely in French. The song, called “Papaoutai,” was originally recorded by Stromae. For this song, the members of the group had to learn how to speak the different vowels of the French language. Pentatonix also got a little help from violinist Lindsay Stirling, who they also recorded with previously, to create an elegant violin backtrack. The album includes three original tracks: “On My Way Home,” “See Through,” and “Standing By.” Of the three, “On My Way Home” is the best because the chorus sounds like an African choir in the background, when really it is only the members of Pentatonix. On each track, Pentatonix does something a little bit different. Whether it is the singer, melodies, or sounds produced by Kaplan and Olusola, Pentatonix seems to try to be unique in comparison to other artists within their genre. “They have chemistry with their voices and they seem to work together very well,” senior Teagan Buhosky said. This album is their third regular studio album. Pentatonix also likes to take their a cappella talents into Christmas songs, and released their holiday album, “That’s Christmas to Me,” on October 21, 2014. I highly recommended all of the albums because they are all different from anything you would listen to on a daily basis. The judges from The Sing Off called Pentatonix “the a cappella group of the future.” And for these artists, this is just the beginning.
On the Rise Artist: Chris Webby By Preston Amato
Underground hip-hop mogul Chris Webby has gathered an audience from across the country with his unique rap style. With heart established in his work, his story is one with ups and downs that can attract an array of people to his music. Webby started his career after being kicked out of Hofstra University. As a result, Chris was able to focus on rapping professionally and launched the persona of Chris Webby. Exactly a month after being expelled, Webby debuted his first mixtape to the public, and instantly became a notable artist with his hit song “La La La.” Since then, Webby’s stardom has only grown with the releases of eight mixtapes and two EPs. For the past five years, the rapper did not have a studio album, but on October 27th, Chris Webby released his freshman album entitled “Chemically Imbalanced.” The album starts off with a track named “Nice 2 Be Back” in which Webby states that he will never sell out in response to labels who want him to change his style. This is what every fan wants to hear, that he will always be true to his style and his fanbase. One of the best tracks on the album is “R.A.D.” Webby uses his unique style to create a beat and smooth vocals that forces you to nod your head. The catchy tune and punchlines are similar to the music of Eminem. The most meaningful song of the album is the title song “Chemically Imbalanced.” Webby recalls several instances of his rocky past which turned him into the person he is today. The end of the first verse is very powerful: “Now these cards are dealt, told myself I don't need help, numb myself to everything, and keep on runnin’ from myself.” Overall, the album exceeded my expectations. The hard work and dedication culminating with Webby’s life stories create an extremely diverse melting pot of songs. After hearing the album, fans can be reassured that Webby has not sold out to a label and will continuously bring us his unique style in the future.
Photo Credit: listentowebby.com
Fans can follow Chris Webby on Twitter (@ ChrisWebby) or visit his website (ListentoWebby. com) to stay updated on his latest music.
NOVEMBER 2014
ENTERTAINMENT
Hozier: Good Hair, Even Better Music
13
By Emily Oberlender
Photo Credit: nydailynews.com
Irish artist, Andrew Hozier-Byrne, otherwise known by his stage name Hozier, released his debut album titled “Hozier” in America on October 7, 2014, with the Rubyworks label. The previously popular musician from YouTube started his career with many singles including “Cherry Wine” and “Like Real People Do” before releasing this premier album featuring many other popular singles. The rising artist was born into a musical
family in Bray, County Wicklow, Ireland. Hozier decided to follow in his father’s footsteps and attended Trinity College in Dublin for music. He dropped out of the school during his first year to start recording demos with Universal Music. For three years before starting his career as an independent artist, Hozier was a part of an Irish choral group called Anúna. This album is a reflection of Hozier on a personal level. Through symbolism and experience, Hozier sings his deep emotions loud enough for us all to hear, yet quiet enough for us to be haunted with the questions his music brings. He uses poetic language to translate powerful messages. Through the 13 original songs on this album, Hozier gives his fans a dosage of himself and his beliefs. For example, in his hit single, “Take Me to Church,” Hozier preaches about gay rights. In the lyrics, “I was born sick, but I love it,” the musician speaks out about the discrimination homosexuals face because their love is considered unnatural by some. According to an interview with fashion blog, The Cut, Hozier said that he grew up in a "cultural landscape that is blatantly homophobic." This isn’t the only population he stands up for. “Work Song” also exposes Hozier’s empathy towards the poorly treated African-Americans in today’s society.
Hozier’s new album is a necessity for both rainy days and sunny afternoons. While some music takes you back to the past, this music makes you feel something new. The first time I listened, I felt comforted by the beauty of the sound, but shaken by the honesty of the artist. On the indie rock album, classic instruments such as an acoustic guitar, piano, and drums make an appearance along with unique sounds like clapping, stomping, and even chirping birds. The calming music is subtle, yet overflowing, with deep emotions that are begging to be heard. Compared to other similar artists, Hozier’s sounds are not very new or original. However, his style is modern and refreshing. The 24-year-old’s indie rock, soul, and blues music is unique for many reasons, one being that the artist writes all of his own music. Hozier said in a Rolling Stone interview that each song takes about one to one and a half years to write before it feels at home, and each is released at just the right time. Whether your musical taste orbits around genres like pop, metal, rock or gospel, Hozier is for everyone. Listening takes you on a journey through different perspectives of both the world around you and your own life. The barred guitar and smooth, steady drums will make you feel both comforted and vulnerable.
Borderlands: The Pre-Sequel By Ryan Santos
Submerse yourself into a new, yet familiar feeling -- “shoot and loot” entry in the Borderlands franchise with “Borderlands: The Pre-Sequel,” released on October 14th. The Pre-Sequel is the third installment in the series, set after the original “Borderlands” and before “Borderlands 2.” The game was developed by 2K Australia and Gearbox Software. Gearbox, founded in 1999 by Randy Pitchford, is known for creating iconic games such as the “Borderlands” series, “Brothers in Arms,” “Duke Nukem Forever,” and “Aliens: Colonial Marines.” “The Pre-Sequel” takes players on a sci-fi-esque trip to Elpis, Pandora’s moon, bringing a refreshing breath of air into the series since players explored Pandora in the first two games. In a role playing game, the characters are often a main focus for developers. In “Borderlands: The Pre-Sequel,” players are able to play as Athena the Gladiator, who wields a Kinetic Aspis shield; Wilhelm the Enforcer, who is drones Wolf and Saint assist in combat; Nisha the Lawbringer, whose showdown skill can take down a roomful of enemies; or Claptrap the Fragtrap, whose vaulthunter.exe action skill will randomly choose an action based on the combat situation. I played through normal and True Vault Hunter modes as Athena to reach level 50, the highest level attainable at this time. Playing as Athena felt smooth, fast paced, and simple. I found her Kinetic Aspis shield to be a great help with taking out large targets. Although the game occasionally feels like a cut-and-paste version of
Coming Soon...
Photo Credit: gearboxsoftware.com
“Borderlands 2,” and there are still a few bugs, it’s a fun experience for any first-person shooter fan. I highly recommend this game. As Gearbox campaigns always say: “mayhem awaits, bring friends.”
November 28
November 28
December 19
December 19
The Imitation Game
Antartica: A Year on Ice
The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies
Night at the Museum: Secret of the Tomb
Photo credit: imdb.com
14
SPORTS
SPOTLIGHT
Varsity Boys’ Soccer Team Rebounds to Win District XI Championship After Devastating Colonial League Loss to Moravian Academy
A Spartan player lays on the field after the tough loss against Moravian Academy. Photo credit: Stephen Flood of lehighvalleylive.com
Ryan Fowler attacks the ball in their game against Northampton this year. Photo Credit: Jie Qian
by Townsend Colley
by Mitchell McColl
On October 16, Southern Lehigh boys’ soccer was handed a crushing defeat in the Colonial League championship game. The Spartans lost 2-1 in double overtime at the hands of Moravian Academy. Jack McCambridge delivered the penalty kick after being two for five this season. The Spartans went into the final as the third-seeded team after beating Palisades in the semifinals. Previously, Moravian Academy had upset the number one team, Saucon Valley, to make it into the championship game. “I always feel that Moravian Academy has to play a great game to beat Southern Lehigh,” Moravian Academy Head Coach Bob Hartman said. As expected by Coach Hartman, the game was very close. The first goal of the game came off of a rebound attempt by senior Ryan Fowler. The Spartans managed to hold on to their 1-0 lead throughout the first half. The tempo of the second half was set when Moravian striker Ryan Peslis sent the ball just past senior Spartan goalkeeper Ryan Harding for the equalizer. Throughout the rest of the game, the two teams battled back and forth, both missing several scoring opportunities. The game-winning goal occurred when Moravian’s Jeff Brown was tripped up on a rush toward the goal and Moravian was awarded a penalty kick. “I think we came so far, and it was a real let down,” leading JV goal scorer freshman Nate Morris said. “On the bus ride home you could hear a pin drop,” Fowler said. “It was quiet, you could hear people crying. It was bad.” Fowler was a menace to the Moravian defense. The last time the two teams had faced each other, he had scored twice. “Stopping Ryan Fowler from scoring [was our hardest challenge],” coach Hartman said. “He scored two against us in the regular season game and one in the first half of the championship game. I wasn't sure we could keep him from scoring another goal and win the game.” “When the referee blew the whistle for the penalty kick I think everyone just felt their hearts sink,” Morris said about the penalty kick. “Our keeper [Ryan Harding] had a great game but usually the penalty kick taker gets the advantage over the keeper in that situation.” The Spartans ended up winning District XI by beating two tough matchups against Emmaus and Parkland. The Spartans lost in the first round of states to a very good Great Valley team.
After suffering a heartbreaking loss in the Colonial League finals, Southern Lehigh High School boys’ soccer went on to defeat the top three teams in the AAA District XI tournament, destroying any doubts about the quality within the team. The team pushed mightily through the Colonial League, defeating Salisbury to secure a spot in the playoffs, and then beating Palisades in the semifinals, only to fall to Moravian in the finals, thanks to a late penalty kick. Southern Lehigh then moved on to districts as the sixth-seed underdog in AAA. The Spartans had never won a AAA District XI title and were not expecting too much, but they still went in with high hopes and hunger for a win. Southern Lehigh defeated Bangor 1-0 in the first round and moved right on to the third seed, Pocono Mountain East, in the tournament. The Spartans pulled off a surprising victory booked at 1-0, advancing them to the semifinals against the second seed, Parkland. The stage was set at J. Birney Crum stadium, and Southern Lehigh was set to play the EPC giants, Parkland High School. The game was intense. The Spartans stunned Parkland with an early goal and then finished them off late in the second half. They had now pulled off two massive upsets and were on their way to the AAA finals. The Southern Lehigh boys’ soccer team now had a shot to grasp their firstever AAA District final, and to accomplish this task they had to defeat the number one seed, Emmaus. The Spartans pulled it off in an exciting and suspenseful match, with a final score of 2-1 in favor of Southern Lehigh. The players were ecstatic and were overjoyed with their victory. “It’s the classic underdog story,” junior captain Jacob Cassel said. “I had never felt better, and it was the best feeling of my life.” Senior captain Logan Koch said the team “really stepped it up” to bounce back from the defeat by Moravian in the Colonial League final. “I think we practiced harder, focused more during warmups, and played the games with nothing to lose,” Koch said. “Being the underdog, we knew we would have to play our best to compete with the big schools like Parkland and Emmaus, and I think we did just that. It’s an incredible feeling to be District XI AAA Champions and make school history.” The 2014 team is the first Colonial League and Southern Lehigh team to win a AAA title in District XI. Throughout the playoffs, the team received strong and consistent support from the community. There was a student section at every game, always cheering for Southern Lehigh. “The atmosphere at the games [was] unbeatable,” junior Ryan Heurich, a regular member of the student section said. “I love[d] watching my fellow peers advance through districts.”
NOVEMBER 2014 Girls’ Soccer Team Shows Promise
SPORTS
15
Athletes Of The Issue
by Cody Heffelfinger
With a regular season record of 12-6-1, the Southern Lehigh girls’ soccer team went into the District XI playoffs looking to uphold their previous success, but fell to Northwestern Lehigh in the second round. “We worked really hard to get to where we need to be, but we [didn’t] finish strong,” senior captain Mackenzie Koziel said. “We need[ed] to put it all together.” The Spartans won their first district game against Blue Mountain in a 2-0 shutout. Senior Mackenzie Koziel and sophomore Kaitlyn O’Brien scored the goals for Southern Lehigh. Senior goalie Alyson Moyer had three saves to keep the hope of winning the District XI title alive. Their second district playoff game was against the Northwestern Lehigh Tigers (18-1). Southern Lehigh trailed in the first half, 2-0. Northwestern scored another goal in the second half to put the girls down 3-0. However, the Spartans never quit and scored two goals to give the team a fighting chance. Unfortunately, the girls could not score again and lost a heartbreaker to the Tigers, with a final score of 3-2. “We had a young team this year,” senior captain Abbey Cerciello said. “I’m proud of how all the underclassmen stepped up and helped the team.” The Spartans will lose four seniors next year: goalie Aly Moyer, outside midfielder Lizzy Lievendag, forward Abbey Cerciello, and center midfielder Mackenzie Koziel.
A Touchdown to Remember by Kylie Schmitt
On Friday, October 31st, at the Salisbury High School stadium, 16-yearold Tyler Strauss scored his first touchdown in a football game against Southern Lehigh. Touchdowns are a common occurrence in football games, but this one meant much more to the Salisbury football team. Strauss, a sophomore at Salisbury High School, is the football team’s manager. He has fragile X syndrome, a genetic condition that is the most widespread cause of intellectual disabilities, and a known cause of autism. The Center for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that one in every 5,000 males is born with the disorder. There is no cure for it, but there are treatments available. Strauss has always loved football, but his condition makes the sport too dangerous for him to play. A special education teacher at Salisbury suggested that Tyler manage the team, so he can be around the sport he loves. The Salisbury players, led by seniors Teddy Denver and Wes Maron, along with junior Nate Davidson, approached their coach with the idea of getting Tyler into the season finale against Southern Lehigh. Salisbury coach Andy Cerco then brought the idea up to Southern Lehigh coach John Toman, who went along with the plan. “I didn’t know it was happening until the play before,” senior football manager Kim Panik said. “[The coaches] said they were putting a boy with autism in and he was going to score a touchdown.” With 8.9 seconds left in the game, the announcer’s voice came through the speakers, shouting, “Number 44 is in the game. 44 is in the game.” The crowd quickly found 44 on the field and watched him receive the ball. As he started running towards the end zone, players from Southern Lehigh dove out of way. Most of the team found out about this seconds before it happened. A few Southern Lehigh players were unaware of the plan and were very confused as to why no one was stopping him. The Salisbury team ran alongside Tyler as he scored an 82-yard touchdown to make the score 42-34 in Southern Lehigh’s favor. Despite losing the game, the Salisbury players cheered and chanted Tyler’s name. The whole stadium joined in. “It was something that I will remember for the rest of my life,” junior Michael Riccio said. The Falcon players have also come up with a plan to sell "Together We Are 1" t-shirts to raise awareness for Fragile X, and for all students with disabilities. “You hear stories about this all the time,” Panik said, “but to actually experience it, it’s amazing.”
Name: Ryan Fowler Sport: Soccer Stats: • 22 goals scored • 52 points scored • 8 assists Ryan Fowler was selected as male athelete of the issue for his spectacular performance for the soccer team this year during the regular season and the playoffs.
Puck Yeah!
Name: Nina DeLuna Sport: Tennis & Cross Country Stats: • 17-2 as single tennis player • .895 win percentage • 3.1 miles in 21.19 miles Nina was selected as female athlete of the issue becasue of her outstanding performance in tennis and cross-country and earning herself league honors in both sports.
by Robyn Somers
The ice hockey teams during their game this year. Photo Credit: Allan Sargent.
On Monday, November 3, Southern Lehigh’s hockey team dominated Quakertown’s. With a final score of 5-2, the Spartans played the best they have all season, after losing most of their early games. At the end of the first period, the Spartans were already up 2-1 with goals from junior Justin Taylor and senior captain Noah Sargent. “We moved the puck really well, and played a physical game,” Sargent said. “In the end we pulled out the win, but we need to keep working hard if we want to have a winning season.” By the end of the game Sargent scored two goals. Freshman Cullen Hawk scored one goal and one assist, and another goal was scored by Andrew Spidel. Only one Quakertown player scored for the team during the entire game. “We played a good game against Quakertown,” senior assistant captain Sean Grossman said. “But we need to keep working, and take less penalties. We also need to pay attention to the benders on the team.” In previous games the defense had really struggled, but goalie John Flory and the rest of the defense worked hard to keep the puck on Quakertown’s side. “Our defense was pretty solid overall, the backcheck was our strongest part of that game,” senior Andrew Ostrowski said. “What the team really needs to work on is our forechecking, hitting, getting shots on the net, and skating.”
16
ODDS AND ENDS
SPOTLIGHT NOVEMBER 2014
Homecoming Queen: Melody Portnoy by Anna Esposito
Melody Portnoy and Michael Figler smile wide after being crowned. Photo Credit: Christmas City Studios
On Friday, October 17th, senior cheerleader Melody Portnoy was pulled from her usual spot on the sidelines and awarded the title of 2014 Homecoming Queen. Portnoy couldn’t have been happier. “I had no idea and I was completely surprised by the win. All the oth-
ers girls on the court were so deserving,” Portnoy said. Up against Portnoy for the title of queen were seniors Kylie Schmitt, Madison Hallman, Abigail Cerciello, and Mackenzie Koziel. In addition to reigning as the current homecoming queen, Portnoy is an active member of Student Council and participates in varsity and competition cheerleading. She has been a member of both squads for all four years of high school. Her last year was made more special when she was awarded the privilege of being named captain along with Hallman and seniors Kelly Boyd and Sara Zook. Portnoy has left an impact that the underclassmen cheerleaders hope will remain for the seasons ahead. “Melody always shows people how to be happy and how to feel good about yourself even when you make mistake in a cheer or stunt,” freshmen Autumn Kandt said. Portnoy can’t believe that this is her final year on the squad. She has created many memories cheering on the sidelines -- her favorite part is flying for stunts -- and has gained friends that she hopes to keep for life. “I will miss all of my team members, as well as the football boys,” she said. “We have all become such a family that I’m sad to see it end.” Outside of school, Melody loves to listen to her favorite classic rock records including those by the iconic band The Beatles. She said their songs have such empowering and inspiring messages. In fact, Portnoy said a lyric from the song, “Dear Prudence” inspires her daily: “the sun is up, the sky is blue, it’s beautiful and so are you.” Her love of music started at a young age with a little help from her father, Mike Portnoy, who happens to be a legendary rock drummer. With music running throughout the family, Melody found a love for playing the piano. Her younger brother, Max, is also in a rock band called Next to None. Portnoy has had the opportunity to travel the world and recently took her first steps into Finland. She also loves to take local trips in her blue Volkswagen beetle to the Coopersburg Diner to get Cooper buns with one of her cheer “besties,” Sara Zook. After graduation, Melody hopes to attend a four-year university. During her time in college she would love to get the opportunity to study abroad in Paris, France.
Homecoming King: Michael Figler by Dana DiGiovanni
The crowning of homecoming king and queen is a popular event in most high schools. This year, seniors Michael Figler and Melody Portnoy were deemed royalty. Traditionally, the boy on homecoming court who raises the most money for charity rises victorious. Figler claims he raised (give or take) a few hundred dollars. “I wouldn’t have been able to raise the amount of money I did without my compassionate family and friends. I walked around my neighborhood and a few soccer games with my cute girlfriend, Hanna,” he said. “Make sure you write cute or I’ll walk out of this interview.” Figler pulled through with the win, but who is he when he takes off the crown? Mikey manages the girls soccer team, plays guitar in a band, and is part of the emerging health program. He would prefer to be a rock star in the future, but will also settle on a more realistic career in the medical field. “I’m a simple man,” he said. “I like vinyl records, pugs, and taquitos.” Naturally gifted in the field of music, Figler boasts an impressive resume. Guitar, bass, mandolin, ukulele, drums, piano, saxophone, and harmonica are all instruments he claims to have mastered. His favorite instrument, however, is his 2014 American Deluxe Fender Telecaster by the name of “Sha’Dynasty.” “Everyone thinks I’m a rough, tough, sporty dude just because I run my own grass-cutting business. This is not true,” Figler said. “Deep down, I’m a sensitive guy. I pet kittens. I volunteer. I play acoustic guitar outside in the rain. Nobody understands me.” On a more serious note, Figler has come a long way since last spring’s controversial prom night, and at the pep rally he even thanked our school for giving him a second chance at the crown.
“Honestly, I went out there and tried my best. I had fun raising money for a good cause and I just happened to raise the most,” Figler said. “Am I the most worthy? Probably not.” At the end of the night, king and queen are just labels. The real lesson that Homecoming 2014 has provided is that everyone deserves a second chance.
2014’s homecoming court. Photo Credit: Christmas City Studios