Southern Lehigh High School 5800 Main Street, Center Valley, PA 18034 Volume 59 Issue 1
HOMECOMING 2015 Bleeding Blue, White, and, Orange Turn to pages 8, 9 and 16 for more Photo Credit: Devon Wolfe
In this
Issue: Visit our features pages to meet the new teachers, starting on page 4.
What are we thinking? Find out in our opinion section on pages 6-7.
Read our book, music and film reviews on pages 13-14.
Page 2
The Spotlight
News
SL Grad Moisey to Perform on Broadway
by Talia Trackim
Matt Moisey performed in his first show when he was five and has been involved with theater and music ever since. Photo credit: Nic Minetor
Every musical theater performer dreams of participating in the prestigious and glamorous world of Broadway. Southern Lehigh 2010 graduate Matt Moisey will see his dream come true when he performs on Broadway this year in the revival of “Fiddler on the Roof.” Moisey will
understudy the role of Motel the Tailor, the same character he played when Southern Lehigh performed “Fiddler” in 2008. “I’m excited about absolutely everything,” Moisey said. “How could I not be?!” Moisey will also be acting as a “swing,” which is an actor who understudies multiple ensemble parts in the event that an ensemble member is unable to perform. “I could end up learning more than ten different ensemble parts!” Moisey said. “It’s a high-pressure, challenging job that requires a lot of quick studying, but it’s a great way for a young performer to learn the ropes!” Moisey auditioned for the part in May and then jetted off to work on the West Coast. After receiving a callback in July, he had the opportunity to sing for the entire creative team, including the lyricist, Sheldon Harnick. On August 31, he was invited to join the cast. “As nerve-wracking as auditions can be, I felt very honored to sing for one of Broadway’s �inest writers,” Moisey said. “[It’s] a moment I will never forget.” Prior to being offered a spot on Broadway, Moisey built an impressive resume. During his time at Southern Lehigh, Moisey performed the lead of Tony in “West Side Story,” the lead role in “Curtains”, and of course, the role of Motel the Tailor in “Fiddler.” He was also choir president and performed in district, regional, and state choir. He even received �irst place at states during
his �inal year of competition. “Matt was very easygoing and very fun to work with, but he was a very serious musician,” choral and theater teacher Mr. Matt Wehr said. “He really buckled down and did a lot of the hard work that it takes to make a really good performer.” Moisey attended Eastman School of Music in Rochester, New York, where he studied opera performance and music education. “I owe this recent success, and frankly, everything, to the highly intelligent and deeply passionate mentors that guided me along the way,” Moisey said. “No one can do it alone, and a good teacher can make all of the difference.” Moisey is grateful for the education and support that he received from Southern Lehigh’s strong musical theater program. “The theater program and Mr. Wehr are doing a really excellent job at preparing students for the future,” junior Lauren Jardine said. “There really is a lot of work, time, and effort that goes into our productions.” Moisey is unsure of what the future holds, but no matter what, he plans for it to involve musical theater. “I don’t know how to do anything else,” Moisey said. “Seriously, I’m clueless. And I wouldn’t want it any other way!” “Fiddler on the Roof” is scheduled to open on December 20.
Local Band Stands ‘Next to None’
by Emily Oberlender
Earlier this month, local band Next to None embarked on two consecutive tours. The progressive metal band consists of keyboardist and vocalist Thomas Cucé, bass player Kris Rank, drummer Max Portnoy, and guitarist Ryland Holland. After releasing their �irst album, “A Light in the Dark,” in June, the band is traveling throughout the northeast and midwest on two back-toback tours. While on tour, Next to None will be performing with Fates Warning and A.D.D. Accompanying Next to None on their tours is 17-year-old Elijah Fritchman, a former Lehigh Valley Charter High School for the Performing Arts student. Even though he has ten years of musical experience, this is Fritchman’s �irst time performing with other musicians. “Getting with the dynamics of everyone’s personalities and stage presences can be dif�icult,” Fritchman said, “but it’s also a blast getting to play with other professional people.” Next to None’s three-week tour with Fates Warning started October 9. Fates Warning is an
Meet Exchange Student Noah Hazim
American progressive metal band that started in 1982 out of Hartford, Connecticut. The band is composed of �ive members, including Jim Matheos, Ray Alder, Joey Vera, Frank Aresti, and Bobby Jarzombek. “It’s very exciting having everything come together,” SL junior Kris Rank said. “Going on tour is rewarding.” Following their Fates Warning tour, Next to None will be setting out on another tour with A.D.D., a rock band that writes their own originals. Their �irst performance will be at Chicago Restaurant & Nightlife in Allentown on November 8. The bands will tour together for one week to perform �ive shows. “I love doing music as a career,” A.D.D. lead singer Dakota McGeehan said. “Playing to a crowd and hearing them sing the words to my originals is incredible. I’m looking forward to having that on tour.” During both of Next to None’s two tours, the band plans to perform songs off of their recently released album, “A Light in the Dark.” The con-
A web exclusive by Nicole Schroy
Just scan the QR code to the right for a direct link on your mobile device, or go to slspotlight.com
Hazim enjoys attending SL, where he says people are friendly, funny, and open minded. Photo credit: Nicole Shroy
Next to None performed at The Saint in Asbury Park, NJ, on October 6. Photo credit: Phil Sheperd
cept of the album is about someone with multiple personality disorder who struggles to �igure out which personality is right. Songwriter Thomas Cucé said that “real world events and [his] own experiences” inspired him while working on the eleven songs that comprise the album. “The album release can be attributed to hard work and luck,” Cucé said. “We got a lot of positive feedback from people who were surprised how good we are considering our age. Hopefully we’ll continue to surprise.”
October 2015
News
Page 3
Holocaust Survivor Shares Her Story by Sarah Trebicka, Izza Choudhry, Danielle Alpert and Alex Baca
Ester Bauer and her companion Bill Engel spoke to juniors and seniors. Photo credit: Emily Oberlender
On October 15, 2015, Esther Jonas Bauer, a 91-year old Holocaust survivor, visited Southern Lehigh High School to retell the horrifying struggles she faced as a Jewish woman in Europe during the second World War. Bauer was born in Hamburg, Germany, in 1924. Both her father, Alberto Jonas, and her mother, Marie Jonas, were doctors. Bauer was nine years old when Hitler came into power. Growing up, she noticed how society slowly began to change. New discriminatory laws towards Jewish people were introduced almost weekly. However, the real dif�iculties began when Bauer and her family were deported to Terezín, Czechoslovakia. “From one moment to the next, we were prisoners,” Bauer said. Her father died six weeks later from meningitis. A congested environment, Terezín lacked mattresses, toilets, and proper food and �looring. Bauer eventually met a Czech-speaking man named Honza Leiner, whom she befriended despite their language barrier. She received a job at a youth organization through a friend, where a co-worker taught her how to speak Czech. “I had to write down every child and their birth dates on an index card in pencil,” Bauer said. “If a child was sent out for death, I had to erase it and use the card again.” After working for two years, she and Leiner became engaged despite not being allowed to live together. The Nazis offered Leiner and many other men a job in the city of Dresden, Germany,
to build a new ghetto. That, of course, was a lie. They wound up in Auschwitz, a network of concentration camps controlled by the Nazis in Poland, where both Leiner and Bauer’s mother were murdered. “Sitting on the train, I saw Polish names, not German. I knew we were going to Auschwitz,” Bauer said. “I thought, ‘Well, that’s the end. I’ll be killed. That’s it.’” Bauer describes Auschwitz as the worst thing she has ever experienced. “At night, we heard [prisoners] being driven to the [gas] showers, and we heard them screaming and screaming,” Bauer said. “Also, the smell of burning �lesh. I will never forget that.” In April, 1945, Bauer, among one thousand other Jewish women of different nationalities, were sent to a different camp in Freiburg, Germany, where she worked in an airplane factory. Bauer recalls being constantly hungry, consuming only one piece of bread all day, along with a cup of coffee for breakfast and soup for dinner. “We ate grass because we were so hungry,” Bauer said. Finally, on May 5, 1945, Auschwitz prisoners were liberated by the American army in Birkenau, Austria. Bauer said it was the happiest day of her life. Over time, she learned American English rather well and began adjusting to the new freedoms given to her. She eventually got in touch with her American uncle, who sent her an af�idavit of support to come to America. She stayed with him brie�ly and then moved to Washington Heights, New York, where she eventually married and raised her family. In 2002, she met Bill Engel, her current boyfriend, whom she has known for 13 years and affectionately calls her “boy toy.” Even after a life full of hardships and being forced to grow up too fast, Bauer remained positive. She was told that she survived because she lived in a shell and let nothing touch her. She also made it very clear that she harbors no hate for Hitler or Germany. “Hate makes you ugly. Hate makes you sick,” Bauer said. “I do not hate. I cannot forgive them, no. But I do not hate.” When students heard that a Holocaust survivor would be coming in to speak to them, they
had varying reactions. “Before the assembly I felt a little bit anxious,” junior August Joachim said. “I had an idea of what to expect, but I didn’t have a clue what it would be like to hear a Holocaust survivor recall her experience �irsthand.” Students and staff can thank English teacher Mrs. Amy Bausher for inviting Bauer to share her story. “I think it is important that students hear directly from a survivor of the Holocaust,” Mrs. Bausher said. “This generation is the last generation that is able to do that. I knew that she left an impression on the students just by the questions they asked, and that was my goal.” Many were personally affected after hearing Bauer’s story, and felt inspired by her positivity and light-hearted personality. “Before the assembly I was expecting somewhat of a documentary storytelling, but instead I received a very exclusive perspective on everything that happened during the Holocaust,” junior Jordan Finks said. “It brings me great joy that Esther has found peace, happiness, and positivity after something like this.” Despite her optimism, Bauer admitted that she does indeed have a lot of anger towards the horrible crimes that took place. She is now an atheist, as she personally cannot believe there is a God who let six million Jews be killed. However, she encourages today’s youth to reform society and make human rights top priority. “You are the future of America,” Bauer said. “Maybe one of you will be president one day. You have to see to it that this never happens again.”
Southern Lehigh High School’s fall production of “The Miracle Worker” will run from November 12-14 in the school auditorium. “The Miracle Worker” is a play based on Helen Keller’s autobiography, “The Story of My Life.” The story focuses on the sacred relationship between Massachusetts teacher Annie Sullivan and Helen Keller, a deaf and blind girl from Tuscumbia, Alabama. Freshman Mary Felix, who plays Helen Keller in Southern Lehigh’s production, said that since beginning rehearsals in early September, she has grown as an actress, and has gained acting skills and experience transferring emotions to an audience. Her role has also brought her closer to Helen Keller. “Helen had a very challenging life, but she was extremely smart,” Felix said. “Even when others didn’t understand her, she understood herself.” Junior Giuliana Augello will performing the role of Helen Keller’s teacher, Annie Sullivan. The actress has starred in previous Southern Lehigh productions, including playing the role of Maria in “The Sound of Music.”
“The role of Annie Sullivan is much more unique than other roles I have played in the past,” junior Giuliana Augello said. “There is a lot of character work that is necessary in order to play the character to her fullest.” Senior Chris Smith and junior Lexi Brown will play Helen’s parents, Captain and Kate Keller. Ten other students make up the play’s small ensemble cast. Director Mr. Matt Wehr chose this production with the hope of exploring the serious drama genre. The strong lead roles also attracted him to this popular production, along with the captivating nature of the play. “‘The Miracle Worker’ is a very powerful piece of theatre. It is a thought provoking, emotional piece,” director Matthew Wehr said. “I think if the audience is willing to be engaged, I’m sure they’ll be stunned at how incredibly [well] done the performances are.” For more information about the production, email southernlehightheatre@gmail.com. For tickets, call 484-919-3851.
Esther Bauer enjoyed speaking with students including senior Sarah Lynch. Photo credit: Emily Oberlender
Fall Production is a Miracle in the Works by Emily Oberlender
the
Miracle Worker PRESENTED BY SOUTHERN LEHIGH HIGH SCHOOL
NOV 12-13 | 7 PM NOV 14 | 2 PM ADULTS | $10 SENIORS | $8 STUDENTS | $5 TICKETS: CALL | 484-919-3851 EMAIL | SouthernLehighTheatre@gmail.com
The play runs from November 12-14.
Page 4 Features
The Spotlight
Science Department Welcomes Mr. Steiner by Izza Choudhry
Mr.Steiner teaches chemistry and forensic science classes. Photo credit: Maggie Moerder
Southern Lehigh School District is well known for its tremendous academic reputation, wonderful environment, and terri�ic students. That’s why Mr. Erik Steiner is excited to join the staff this year as a science teacher. Mr. Steiner taught at LCTI for a year and a half and at William Allen High School for eight years. One thing he hopes to accomplish this year is to see all his students be successful. “The best part about teaching high school is getting to interact [with] and educate kids at this age,” Mr. Steiner said. “It’s great to get to know them, and being able to see the look in their eyes when they know they’re successful is awesome.” Before becoming a teacher Mr. Steiner was a wellness and �itness director for a corporation north of Penn State called Restek. He also worked at a casino dealing craps for two years. Outside of school, Mr. Steiner is the
strength and conditioning coach for the Parkland football team and the head powerlifting coach at Parkland High School. In his free time, he enjoys cooking, playing video games, and strength training. He holds a Bachelor of Science degree in exercise physiology and a Masters Degree in Curriculum and Instruction from Penn State University. He is certi�ied to teach chemistry and biology. “My high school chemistry teacher had a huge impact on me wanting to get into science; he was terri�ic,” Mr. Steiner said. “I enjoyed being a wellness director and a personal trainer, so I wanted to transfer that into the classroom. Coaching and teaching are the same thing to me, and I’ve always been a science geek, so I’ve never been sorry with the decision of becoming a teacher.” Mr. Steiner wants his students to know that his door is open anytime for those needing help.
Mr. Sabino Returns to His Alma Mater by Alex Baca
Southern Lehigh graduate Mr. Paul Sabino has returned to his roots by becoming the newest addition to the social studies department. He is a long-term substitute for social studies teacher Mrs. Katie Quartuch, who is on maternity leave this fall and sabbatical leave in the spring. “Teaching here is a dream come true.” Mr. Sabino said. “There’s so many great kids, and it’s a lot of fun teaching them every single day.” Mr. Sabino graduated from Southern Lehigh High School in 2010. While at Southern Lehigh, he participated in band as a drummer. He also threw the javelin and shotput in track, where he was a co-captain his senior year. After high school, he continued his education and band career at Bloomsburg University. He graduated cum laude in 2014. At Bloomsburg, he majored in history with a minor in special education. He is certi�ied to teach social studies in grades 7-12. “I want students to get something out of my class. I want to make learning fun,” Mr. Sabino said. “If I’m lucky, I’ll get people to love government and social studies just as much as I do.” After graduating from college, Mr. Sabino
worked as a daily substitute teacher in the Allentown, Bethlehem and Southern Lehigh School Districts. He also served in a long-term substitute teaching position at Trexler Middle School in the Allentown School District. “I like working with high school kids,” Mr. Sabino said. “It’s a thick and awesome experience. I love teaching and being able to get involved, too.” Aside from teaching, Mr. Sabino is the percussion instructor for the marching band under the new band instructor, Mr. Larry Fisher. “Mr. Sabino is younger, so he’s more up to date with modern types of marching band styles,” senior drummer Chris Schell said. “He’s very dedicated and he’s always there to help.” Mr. Sabino is a sports fan who likes the New York Yankees and Dallas Cowboys. If he could meet any celebrity, he would want to meet Derek Jeter who he watched play for the Yankes while he was growing up. He likes punk rock, classic rock, rap music, and his grandmother’s pasta. “I am excited for the opportunity to work at Southern Lehigh High School,” Mr. Sabino said. “I am just living the dream.” An interesting fact about Mr. Sabino is that he can name every president in order. Photo credit: Maggie Moerder
Mr. Zacher Cooks His Way into SLHS by Nicole Schroy
In his free time, he likes to practice photography, spend time with his friends, cook, and play video games. Photo credit: Caitlin Roth
Southern Lehigh welcomed an abundance of new teachers into the 2015-2016 school year. Among them is Mr. Joseph Zacher, the new family and consumer science teacher, who has been adjusting to the ways of the high school. Mr. Zacher attended Parkland High School and recently graduated from Marywood University in Scranton, Pennsylvania. He teaches Family and Consumer Science, Housing and Interiors, Single Living, Family Living, and Nutrition. “Mr. Zacher is a great teacher,” senior Jocelyn Burns said. “Since he is here right out of college, he is able to make our learning material very relatable for our age.” This being his �irst year of teaching, he hopes to plan his curriculum and lessons quickly so that he can stay ahead of his students and keep classes interesting. He shares an immense amount of excitement for the year and feels very welcomed by his co-workers and students. “I like to have a good balance of hands-on activities
in class,” Mr. Zacher said. “I try to make things fun for everyone.” He enjoys working with kids and cooking, thus he was able to �ind a happy combination of the two when he decided to become a family and consumer science teacher. Before coming to Southern Lehigh, Mr. Zacher was a camp counselor at Northampton Community College. He taught karate classes throughout high school and college and even worked his way up to a black belt. “I have him for spartan period and it’s a lot of fun!” sophomore Alyssa Dottery said. “He’s outgoing.” If he had the opportunity to meet anyone, Mr. Zacher would want to meet Anthony Bourdain, and the American chef. He admires his personality and �inds him to be humorous. On Mr. Zacher’s playlist, you can �ind songs that range from indie, alternative, electronic dance music, and even some rap.
Features
October 2015
Page 5
Solehi Welcomes Band Director Mr. Fisher by Sarah Trebicka
Following the retirement of Mr. Doug Bolasky, Southern Lehigh students and staff welcomed a brand new band and orchestra teacher, Mr. Larry Fisher. “Everyone welcomed me with open arms,” Mr. Fisher said. “The students have been very receptive to the small little changes we’ve made here and there, the administration’s great, and working with Mr. Wehr is really fun.” Mr. Fisher graduated from Susquehanna University in 2007 with a degree in music education. He taught seventh to twelfth grade band and orchestra at Line Mountain High School for eight years. Seeking a larger school district, he applied for the open position here at Southern Lehigh and was hired in July. He is looking forward to a great year working with the students and staff. “I’m excited to make something special happen here. I want to create an excitement and enthusiasm for the band and orchestra,” Mr. Fisher said. “I don’t care what kind of ratings the kids get at competitions; I just want them to feel good about their performance and feel like they did a good job.” Before becoming a music teacher, Mr. Fisher was a martial arts instructor and camp counselor. In college, he played volleyball, soccer, football, and frisbee. He’s a big New York Jets fan and enjoys watching football, camping, running, and spending time with family. When he’s not teaching music, Mr. Fisher spends much of his spare time performing music with many different jazz bands and orchestras, like the Williamsport Symphony. Professionally, he plays the clarinet and the saxophone, and even has a private saxophone studio. Mr. Fisher listens to just about every genre of music, except for country and rap. Some of his
Mr.Fisher loves Star Wars. He’s also a huge fan of the Marvel and DC movies. Photo credit: Maggie Moerder
favorite artists include Justin Timberlake, John Mayer, Jason Mraz, Jack Johnson, Led Zeppelin, Lynyrd Skynyrd, Pink Floyd, and Wynton Marsalis. “Music is what I do,” he said. “I love performing, and I love teaching.” However, Mr. Fisher didn’t always want to teach music. “I didn’t want to become a teacher until my junior year in high school. I was that kid who always said, ‘I’ll be a �ire�ighter, I’ll be a policeman.’ I had no idea what I wanted to do,” he said. “My
high school band director was kind of the one who said, ‘Hey, you’re pretty good at this thing.’ She’s the one who put two and two together for me. And she was right.” Growing up in Sparta, New Jersey, Mr. Fisher participated in band, choir, theater, and martial arts. His father was his biggest role model as a kid and still inspires him today. “Captain America’s my idol. With a little bit of Robert Downey Jr.,” he said. “If Robert Downey Jr. played Captain America, that’d be freakin’ awesome.”
Say ‘Ni Hao’ to Chinese Teacher Ms. Zhang by Jamie Kish
See those characters on the board next to Ms.Zhang? Those say “hello” in Mandarin! Photo credit: Jamie Kish
The Chinese language is complex and exotic, and many Southern Lehigh students are excited to learn about it. That’s why Ms. Zhang Yujing is eager to teach Southern Lehigh students Mandarin Chinese and Chinese culture for the 2015-16 school year. Ms. Yujing participates in a program at
Wuhan University in China that sends over 100 students to various schools in the United States to teach Mandarin Chinese to American students. She is majoring in Chinese Language at her university. “I am the only PhD in the program, and I have two more years of school left after I
return to China,” Ms. Yujing said. Although this is her �irst time teaching in the U.S., she has past experience teaching Mandarin Chinese to Korean students in China, as well as teaching English to Chinese students. From the get-go, students have enjoyed having Ms. Yujing as a teacher. “We both like her because she isn’t strict but still gets the job done. She’s a good teacher,” seniors Chris Smith and Jacob Cassel said. Many students are interested in learning Chinese because of its growing signi�icance in our global society. “China is becoming a larger and larger economic in�luence on the world, so I feel like learning Chinese can bene�it my career path in the long run,” Smith said, “We’re glad we have a good teacher like Ms. Yujing.” Outside of school, Ms. Yujing enjoys calligraphy, singing, reading, and swimming. She also enjoys American culture. “If I could meet any famous person, I would want to meet the President of the United States,” she said. Ms. Yujing hopes that by the end of the year she will teach Southern Lehigh students about Chinese language and culture so that will bene�it their daily lives. “I want to teach students something they will remember forever.”
Page 6
Features
The Spotlight
Ms. D’Agostino Joins Health & PE Dept. by Talia Trackim
Ms. D’Agostino aims a bow and arrow at a target during gym class. Photo credit: Maggie Moerder
They say that the difference between an average teacher and a great teacher is passion. As a lifelong health and �itness enthusiast, Ms. Diane D’Agostino has exactly that. Ms. D’Agostino is a long term substitute for Mrs. Jennifer Edwards who is currently on maternity leave. “She’s very upbeat and enthusiastic,” health and physical education teacher Mr. Brenton Ditchcreek said. “She is all about �itness, so she’s always trying to improve what we already have. She’s here for the kids.” Not only is Ms. D’Agostino passionate, but she’s also quali�ied. She began her education career at Bethlehem School District, where she taught middle school health and physical education. After taking time off to be a stay at home mom, Ms. D’Agostino began teaching �itness classes to children and adults. She received a masters in education with a focus on exercise science from East Stroudsburg University. Ms. D’Agostino eventually went on to become a program director and club manager. After the company closed, she renewed her teacher’s certi�ication and began substitute teaching. “I like to draw on my experience in the �itness and wellness industry to reinforce the point that your health is your foundation for everything you do in life,” Ms. D’Agostino said. “You can be successful in many things, but if you don’t take care of your health, it’s a lot more
dif�icult to move forward. And that’s all three aspects: mental, physical, and emotional health all come into play.” Ms. D’Agostino is enjoying her time at Southern Lehigh, and she is impressed by the friendliness of the students and the professionalism of the staff. She is especially fond of the health and physical education department, who have made her feel right at home. “Everyone is above and beyond,” she said. The students and staff are equally impressed by her positivity and knowledge. “She has a lot of respect for everyone and is very dynamic,” freshman Emma Smith said. “[In her class] you participate more than just writing down notes. It’s more about the students than just the teacher lecturing.” Ms. D’Agostino is also an avid cyclist, and she dreams of one day touring Europe on her bike. She recently participated in Bike to the Bay, a 100-mile bike ride through southern Delaware. She has cycled in many tours and has enjoyed a plethora of biking adventures. “I once geared up for a cycling tour that was four hours away and realized when I got there I’d forgotten the wheel of my bike,” she said. Ms. D’Agostino is looking forward to working at Southern Lehigh and sharing her love of wellness with the staff and students. Be sure to give her a warm welcome!
Left: Ms. D’Agostino instructs a ninth grade health class. Photo credit: Maggie Moerder
¡Bienvenidos, Señorita Peralta! by Danielle Alpert
Part-time Spanish teacher Ms. Michelle Peralta, Southern Lehigh’s newest addition to the World Language department, is following her mother’s footsteps as a teacher. Yup – her mother is the business teacher, Mrs. JoAnn Peralta, and she loves working with her! “It’s nice,” Ms. Peralta said. “She has been here for a while, and she knows all the teachers and most of the students. It is very helpful to have her.” A former Bloomsburg University student, Ms. Peralta has taught at an all girls’ Catholic school, Villa Joseph Marie, and a charter school in Bensalem. However, she did not always want to be a teacher. “At �irst, when I went to college, I was a nurse major, but I literally got sick every time I was around medical things,” she said. She realized that she loved learning about the Spanish language and culture, so Ms. Peralta decided to share her passion with others. She is now certi�ied to teach Spanish, English as a Second Language, and English. However, in high school, her passion was art. Outside of school, Ms. Peralta enjoys traveling and spending time at the beach. She would love to try skydiving one day and also meet Jennifer Lopez, who she describes as “an amazing singer and an awesome actress.” If you want to say, “¡Bienvenidos!” stop in to room 184!
Ms. Peralta assists a student. Photo credit: Maggie Moerder
Ms. Peralta is the newest addition to the Spanish department. Photo credit: Maggie Moerder
Features
October 2015
Page 7
Welcome Health & PE Teacher Mr. Hummel by Allison Borelli
On August 31, Southern Lehigh welcomed a brand new health and physical education teacher, Mr. Matthew Hummel. “I always liked physical �itness,” Mr. Hummel said. “I like setting things up and organizing activities, and it just kind of made sense for me to become a teacher. Mr. Hummel graduated from Temple University with a degree in Health and Physical Education. After working as a restaurant bartender in college, he began teaching in an elementary school in Princeton, New Jersey. Later, he held the position of co-director for the P.E. Department at Memphis Street Academy Charter School. “I would describe Mr. Hummel as a very passionate, hardworking, dedicated teacher who is excited about this opportunity that he has here at Southern Lehigh,” health and physical education teacher Ms. Megan Dellegrotti said. When he was younger, Mr. Hummel was involved in baseball and wrestling. No matter what sport he played, his number was always number one. Despite his fear of heights, he also went skydiving with friends. “He’s enthusiastic and laid back, but he also gets it done,” junior Lauren Deitch said. “He teaches us what we need to know, but he does it in a fun way.” Mr. Hummel loves listening to seventies’ soul music, and his favorite food is sushi. Outside of school he enjoys working with his hands, going to the beach, and hanging out with friends and family. He and his beagle and cocker spaniel mix, Murphy, share the same birthday. “I’m really passionate about phys ed and health, and I’m here to help [the students],” Mr. Hummel said.
Mr. Hummel demonstrates how to hold a football during gym class. Photo credits: Maggie Moerder
A Coach, a Rocker, a Movie Lover, and a Grandmother: SLHS’s Newest Secretaries
by Emily Oberlender
At least once, you’ve entered the of�ice or library needing some sort of assistance, and someone was there to help you out. Tina Lentz, Tammy Burno, Lynne Maynard and Paula Barron are just four of the smiling faces behind the desks, and you’ve most likely exchanged in conversation with them several times. In the past year, four new secretaries have been hired at or transferred to Southern Lehigh High School. However, these individuals are much more than hard workers. They each have unique identities. Southern Lehigh students can’t claim they have much knowledge about the pixie-haired grandmother in the library, the woman with sparkling eyes who answers phones, the blonde part time worker in the of�ice, or Mr. Lilley’s smiley new secretary. There’s a plethora of traits embedded in these secretaries we see daily that have gone unnoticed
New office secretaries Paula Barron, Tammy Burno, and Lynne Maynard are excited to join SL. Photo credit: Caitlin Roth
by the students. Well, unnoticed until now. Tammy Burno It’s not surprising that Mrs. Tammy Burno lives by the words “always wear a smile.” However, for kids at Southern Lehigh, it might seem surprising that the bubbly woman is a major Pink Floyd and Kiss fan. The attendance keeper and secretary to Mrs. Guarriello treasures animals and animal rights. When she’s not at school enjoying high school students and their hilarious stories, you might �ind her working out or spending time with family. The busy mom of two girls even coaches youth cheerleading. Along with being con�ident, passionate, and outgoing, she is also quirky and humorous. She embraces all that she is and all that she aspires to be -- including her eccentric talents. “This is so embarrassing. Promise me you won’t laugh, OK?” Mrs. Burno said. “I can say the �ifty states in alphabetical order in under a minute. I learned it in third grade, and I never forgot it.” Lynne Maynard Not many people can say they enjoy math. However, Mrs. Lynne Maynard can honestly say she loves it. The baker who recently came to Southern Lehigh in June after a tenyear break from working can shock us all with her incredible passion for numbers. A highly intellectual accountant, she impresses everyone she meets with her photographic memory and optimistic attitude.
While Mrs. Maynard is professional, she’s also punk. The fun-loving entertainer jams out to rock music whenever she gets the chance. Need new musicians to listen to? She recommends Volbeat, her favorite band out of Denmark, and has another piece of advice too. “Always try to �ind happiness,” Mrs. Maynard said. She has found her own happiness right here at Southern Lehigh, doing what she’s always enjoyed, and continues to enjoy everyday: working with numbers in accounting.
Tina Lentz Mrs. Tina Lentz is not just the library secretary; she’s also an antiquarian who adores arts and crafts, and even plays the bells. Before transferring to the high school this fall, she worked at Lower Milford for twenty-two years, where she cherished every second spent with elementary children. Though somewhat intimidated by high school students upon her arrival, she’s learned to love us. “I love kids. I love you guys,” Mrs. Lentz said. “I am really �inding this to be fun.” Paula Barron Most recently, on October 5, Southern Lehigh welcomed Mrs. Paula Barron, secretary to assistant principal Mr. Lilly. As Mrs. Barron’s learned, coming to a new school means adapting to new faces and routines.
However, the movie lover’s as happy as can be surrounded by the lush �ields of Southern Lehigh. Because she previously worked at an elementary school in Allentown, high schoolers are a huge adjustment for her, but she invites the change with open arms. “[Before] I got to see kids crying to start school,” Mrs. Barron said. “Now I see them crying to leave it.”
Find Friendships All of the secretaries of Southern Lehigh High School possess unique characteristics. Don’t let the desk they sit behind be a barrier to a delightful friendship. “Don’t be afraid to come in and see me to ask questions,” Tammy Burno said. “Making connections with the students is the best part of the job.”
Tina Lentz, new library secretary, is a proud grandmother. Photo credit: Caitlin Roth
Page 8
The Spotlight
Center Spread
How Well Do You Know T by Danielle Alpert
This Art Club, National Honor Society, and Key Club member plans to study at a community college and eventually become a physical therapist. Outside of school, she takes ballroom dance classes and helps with her church’s youth group. Given the chance, she would really like to travel, especially to a tropical area. If she could choose a superpower, she would choose to �ly. If she lived forever, she would spend her time travelling. “I would visit so many places!” she said. Maybe she would even get to see her favorite animal, a giraffe.
You may see this lacrosse running around the school, o playing sports, he would be st or hanging out with friends. H “top of the class” student. “I have always wanted to be After high school, he will a post scholarship for lacrosse ness and minor in computer g favorite movie, “Interstellar,” o “Matthew McConaughey w
Morgan Myers
This rib and burger lover plays football and lift weights in the fall. During the spring, he wrestles and participates in track and �ield. After graduating high school, he wants to attend a four-year college where he may play football, or even rugby. For both rugby and football you need to be muscular, just like a certain superhero. I want super strength like the Incredible Hulk, but instead of turning green, I want to turn blue,” he said. If he were an animal, he would be a silverback gorilla. They’re the alphas!” he said. He works mowing lawns and landscaping. In his free time he loves to eat, so he would love to be a food critic if he lived forever. Josh Mohr
This aspiring Messiah College student wants to major in biology and play softball. She is a part of SADD, National Honor Society, the soccer team, the softball team, and is the vice president of her class. Outside of school, she is a part of a softball tournament team. She has always wanted to travel, and her super power would make it effortless to do. “I would have the superpower to �ly so I could go to Europe,” she said. If she lived forever, she would spend eternity with her friends and family, and if she could be any animal, she would be a monkey. “They are my favorite.”
Courtney Herr
This guy spends most of his time in the water. He swims in school and outside of school. If he were an animal, he would still spend his time in the water as a manatee. He is also a part of Key Club, concert band, marching band, and jazz band. Outside of school he plays drums, swims constantly, lifeguards, and plays frisbee. After high school, he wants to major in engineering at a university and then get his master’s degree, but �irst he’ll need that A in AP Calculus! Once he �inishes college, maybe then he will be able to ful�ill his dream. “I would spend eternity eating at the same diner everyday, so I can be a regular.”
Chris Schell
Chris Schell
Ethan Price
Wyatt Noone
Josh Mohr
This National Honor Socie also on the soccer team, swim she is not doing sports or in sc reading. If she could live forever, she especially in Europe,” she said She plans to attend college tion or marketing. She hopes t “I would want to live in ‘Th it is so entertaining,” she said. If she were an animal, s vorite animal, a giraffe. “They are really tall,” sh thing.”
Brian Clark
October 2015
Center Spread
Page 9
The Homecoming Court?
Wyatt Noone
During the winter, one may see this football player shredding it up on a snowboard. He loves football, but sometimes wishes that had a life outside of it. Since he runs all the time at football practice, he would love to be able to �ly if he had a super power. “Then I wouldn’t have to walk or run ever again,” he said. He is so devoted to football that it is the only activity he does in the fall. However, in the spring, he runs track and �ield. During his free time, he likes to hang out with his friends and lift weights. He has to be strong to be like his favorite animal, the lion. As a lion he would eat anything he wanted all the time. “I would spend eternity eating,” he said, “just eating and eating forever.”
Ethan Price
e would “try to go everywhere, d. e and major in primary educato run track in college, as well. he Of�ice.’ It is a boring job, but
she would want to be her fa-
he said, “I could reach every-
This Harry Potter fan would love to be a wizard at Hogwarts. Her desired super power, invisibility, would come in handy if she attended. If she were a wizard, she would turn herself into a lion. On the realistic side, she is part of Key Club, Teen Counseling, Student Council, National Honor Society, the basketball team, and the lacrosse team. Outside of school, she loves to hang out with her friends, watch movies, play club lacrosse, and AAU basketball. After she graduates high school, she wants to attend a four-year college, majoring in the medical �ield. She wants to get married and have four to six children. If she could live forever, she would spend eternity helping others. “The world lacks kindness,” she said.
Libby Dex
ety and Key Club member is m team, and track team. When chool, she is either sleeping or
If this football player were a superhero, he would be able to �ly. “I would have the ability to �ly so I could save money on gas,” he said, “I would also have unlimited stamina [and the ability to run for eternity].” One would think he would want to be a cheetah if he were an animal, but that is not the case. “I would be a wolf, because they are my favorite animal,” he said. On a serious note, he likes to work out and run when he gets a chance. While he is not running or working out, he is hunting or hanging out with friends. After graduating high school, he wants to enlist in the Marine Corps and attend college.
Brian Clark
e super duper smart,” he said. attend Long Island University e. He plans to major in busigraphics and maybe watch his once or twice. was boss in that movie.”
This “I Love Lucy” fan spends her summer time as a lifeguard and a swim instructor. During the winter, she works as a ski instructor. After she graduates high school, she wants to go to school for graphic design. “I want to minor in English or photography,” she said. She is a part of Teen Counseling, Adventure Club, and Fashion Club in school. She would love to use her artistic skills to spend eternity photographing places as they change. She always wanted to sing, but never could, despite her many other talents. If she could possess any superpower, she would want to read minds, “but it would always end in a disaster,” she said.
Jocelyn Burns
e player on the soccer �ield, or even wrestling. If he is not tudying, playing video games, He has always wanted to be a
Zoe Geis
Photo credits: Alyssa Chirumbulo and Whitney Kehley
Zoe Geis
Jocelyn Burns
Libby Dex
Courtney Herr
Morgan Myers
Page 10
The Spotlight
Opinion
Staff Editorial: Embrace Individuality 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
Opinion Editor Katie Cole
Our World Editor Sarah Trebicka
Entertainment Editor Jamie Kish
Sports Editor Townsend Colley
Web Editor Alex Baca
Copy Editor Izza Choudhry
Photographers Maggie Moerder Caitlin Roth Devon Wolfe
Pennsylvania School Press Association 2015 Gold Rating 2014 Gold Rating 2013 Silver Rating National School Press Association 2015 First Class Rating
The running joke at Southern Lehigh is that we’re a bunch of rich white kids. That we have no diversity. That we’re all just a bunch of cookie cutter students who look, talk, and act the same way. We exist in our own little worlds, totally oblivious to the people around us. Take a look around you. Our school is �illed with students who come from different ethnic backgrounds, socioeconomic levels, and family situations. We have students who identify as different sexual orientations, who go to a technical institution every day, and who participate in completely unique activities outside of school. Our student body pulses with the vibration of music and art, with the rationality of math and science, with the energy of athletics, and so much more. Are you still honestly telling yourself that we’re all the same? We as humans naturally put ourselves into groups. From a young age, we, as a society, are taught to categorize: put the red items into a pile, put the blue items into a separate pile. We seem to constantly judge others by the way they dress, their ethnicity, religion, personal beliefs, and more. This constant categorization creates a conformist mindset. We stick to the people who are just like us, and we turn a blind eye to those to who look, or think, or act differently. Conformity is toxic. We all know this. We all know what happened in the events of the Holocaust when Hitler tried to exterminate an entire race of people just because
they believed in something different. We know the devastation that it can cause. So why do we continue it? Why do we continue to make racist comments and gestures? Why do LGBT students get bullied? Why do we make fun of students who look or dress differently? When we choose to categorize ourselves under one speci�ic banner, we risk the danger of devaluing one another and our experiences. We all can learn from one another. The preps can learn something from the alternative kids, the alternative kids can learn something from the jocks, the jocks can learn from the nerds, the list goes on and on. Because we’re all just people. We all have dreams, passions, and people that we love. Diversity is beautiful. We all have different things that we can offer, strengths and weaknesses that balance one another out. When we look at someone, we should take a step back before we judge them and consider who they are as a person, opposed to how they look. By looking at one another as individual people, and offering one another the respect that everyone deserves, we can truly have a productive society. Until then, it’s your choice. You can continue judging others or you can have an open mind. Here’s a challenge for you: When you’re done reading this article, put the paper down. Turn to someone new. Recognize their individuality. And just say hello.
Regular Exercise Decreases Stress
by Sarah Trebicka
Most teens hit the gym or play sports in hopes of getting in shape, improving their athletic ability, or feeding their nagging competitiveness. Exercising regularly, however, also comes with many less talked about mental bene�its that enhance the way people think, feel, and act. To begin with, exercising is widely recognized as an effective stress reliever. A Stress in America survey conducted by the American Psychological Association found that a whopping 82 percent of high school students experience moderate to extreme stress during the school year. Exercise increases concentrations of norepinephrine, which subdues the brain’s otherwise intense response to stress, thus warding off negative thoughts and crippling worries. “Exercise allows you to physically ‘work off’ your problems,” senior Peter Naktin, who participates in soccer and kung fu said. Research conducted by the National Institute of Mental Health found that 25 percent of high school students experience anxiety and 11.2 percent suffer from depression. On top of stress-relieving chemicals, regular exercise also stimulates the production of a group of hormones called endorphins, which create feelings of happiness. A study at Duke University found that just four months of consistent physical activity is as good as prescription medication at diminishing depression, because exercise produces neurons that mend damaged regions of the brain. Additionally, regular exercise alters the blood �low to areas in the brain that contain negative feelings and thoughts which can feed anxiety and depression.
Students exercise in physcial education class. Photo Credit: Caitlin Roth
Another bene�it of exercise is higher brainpower. Research shows an active workout stimulates the production of BDNF, a protein that strengthens decision-making, logic, and learning skills. A 2011 study published in the Archives of Internal Medicine by Canadian researchers successfully proved the theory that exercise prevents memory loss and heightens cognitive functions such as vocabulary retention and concentration, also due to the increased production of cells in a brain region responsible for memory and learning. “Exercise keeps you organized because you manage your time better,” sophomore �ield hockey player Madison Reese said. “I’m forced to make time for sports and all my other responsibilities, like schoolwork.” Regular physical activity doesn’t necessarily mean signing up for after-
school sports teams or spending long hours lifting weights at the gym. Even just making time for a 15-minute walk with your dog or Saturday yoga classes with friends can prove instrumental in boosting health. Everyone can �ind some kind of physical activity that is fun and enjoyable. Short, low-impact intervals of exercise are better than no exercise at all. Even beyond mental health, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) con�irmed that a sedentary lifestyle increases the risks of heart disease, obesity, diabetes, and even dementia. “It doesn’t have to be a sport. Just �ind something you like to do,” health and physical education teacher Mr. Brenton Ditchcreek said. “The younger the better. It’ll be harder to break those habits when you get older.”
October 2015
Opinion Page 11
Community College Underrated: 5 Reasons to Reconsider by Alex Baca
Many SLHS students start out their college educations at Lehigh Carbon Community College.
When imagining the future, most students don’t include community college in their post-high school plans. They dream of going to a four-year college like Lehigh, Temple, Penn State, or Pittsburgh. However, when it’s time to get serious about going to college, you may realize it is a good option to begin your education at a community college.
REASON #1: It is A LOT cheaper. Community colleges are a lot cheaper than four-year colleges. In college, you have to pay for your classes, books, room, and tuition. Plus when you’re done with college you have to pay student loans. If you attend community college, you won’t have to pay as much. It may be �inancially wiser to attend community college for general education classes rather than paying the costs of state college and university rates. You can save money when you take classes that aren’t related to your major. Students in their freshman and sophomore years take general education classes, then in their junior year, they start taking classes that are related to their major. If you attended a high school that supports Lehigh Carbon Community College, that only costs 1,900 dollars per semester. Northampton Community College costs 1,955 dollars for students who live in Northampton County that are enrolled in 1218 credit hours. “I would rather spend the least money possible,” senior Jacob Steirer said. “When you graduate, you don’t want to be drowned in debt.” REASON #2: Community College gives the time to decide your major. Choosing a career is one of the biggest decisions you’ll ever make in your life. You should have as much time as you need in order to decide on what career you want to pursue. Students at four-year universities often experience stress when deciding on a major. Why spend more money at a fouryear college if you are unsure of a major? “Community college provides students with a little extra time with what they want to do,” guidance counselor Mr. Carl Crouse said. “They can go there undeclared, meaning they don’t have a major. They just take the general education courses required for most bachelor degrees. It offers them more time to research their career options.”
As I Was Saying By Emily Oberlender
REASON #3: Smaller classrooms. It can be hectic when you’re in a class with a hundred other students. It can also be annoying when you don’t even know your professor. At community colleges, classes are smaller, and you are more likely to get to know your professor. You can also get more help from your professor. “Smaller classrooms can be more focused on the student,” senior Noah Lycett said. “It’s more interactive, and you can ask more questions.” REASON #4: You get a feel for what college is like. While saving money, you get to feel what college is like. If you don’t like the college experience for any reason, guess what? You don’t have to go to college. There are other options out there. There are jobs that don’t require a college degree. What’s the bene�it about attending community college over a four-year college if you don’t like it? “I am glad I started out at a community college,” special education teacher Mrs. Rose Touma said . “I thought I wanted to be a dental hygienist, but when I realized that’s not what I wanted to do, I was able to take different general education classes to assist me in choosing a career. It made the transition smoother by not spending as much money and it better prepared me for a four-year college.”
REASON #5: It’s an easier transition. The community college lifestyle is more relaxed than at a four-year college. Some community colleges have good support to help you make the transition. College is a huge step from high school. Assignments are a lot harder and require a lot more effort. You have to do all the reading on your own. Not all homework is graded. Many college freshmen realize once they get there, no one will tell you to do your work or go to class. It’s up to you if you want to succeed. Your teachers and parents have probably told you that. Kaelee Rupell, a 2014 Southern Lehigh graduate who transferred to East Stroudsburg University, started out at Lehigh Carbon Community College. “You get to go home every night. You still get college experience,” Rupell said. “You don’t get homesick. If you live at dorms, you live close enough to go home.” If you are a senior, talk with your parents and your guidance counselor about your options. You may �ind that community college is the best choice for you.
Another option for students in the Lehigh Valley Area is Northampton Community College.
Photo Credit: Sarah Trebicka
I Stand with Planned Parenthood For years, abortion has been steeped in political controversy. People have been quick to label themselves as “pro-choice” or “pro-life,” making it no secret that abortion is a touchy subject. Despite my extremely left-leaning views, I have been able to respect everyone’s personal opinions on the matter. However, I cannot sit back while people discriminate against Planned Parenthood, and even threaten to defund it, due to abortionbased reasoning. According to their website, Planned Parenthood is the “leading provider of high-quality, affordable healthcare for women, men, and young people, and the nation’s largest provider of sex education.” People who take a stand against Planned Parenthood due to their pro-life views neglect to realize that the organization provides multiple services that actually work towards preventing unnecessary abortions. In fact, due to Planned Parenthood, 516,000 unintended pregnancies are averted each year. Eighty percent of their clients receive services related to avoiding unplanned pregnancy. By defunding this program, the number of abortions would skyrocket. Those who look down on Planned Parenthood for providing abortions should know that only three percent of their services are actually abortion-based. Defunding Planned Parenthood with the intentions of avoiding abortion is perhaps the most counterproductive action possible. The other 97 percent of Planned Parenthood services provide 4.5 million tests for sexually transmitted diseases per year to men and women, as well as other procedures including PAP tests, breast exams, and birth control. Most importantly, the organization educates the public on being sexually safe and responsible. Before blindly rallying to defund a harmless organization that saves lives, educates, and provides necessary tools to all people, please educate yourself on the real facts.
Page 12 Arts and Entertainment
The Spotlight
Witness ‘What Went Down’ On Foals’ New Record by Jamie Kish
The up-and-coming British indie rock band, Foals, has been steadily rising in popularity since the release of their critically acclaimed debut, “Antidotes,” in 2008. In particular, critics praised the �leeting drums and fast-paced guitars. After a period of experimenting, Foals achieved numerous chart successes with their last two records, “Holy Fire” and “Total Life Forever.” Earlier this year, frontman Yannis Philippakis vowed a much heavier sound when they announced their fourth studio album, titled “What Went Down,” released on August 28 in the U.S. by Warner Bros. Immediately heavy with the title track, jam packed with harsh distorted guitars and vocals, “What Went Down” starts off with a bang. The track that follows is a personal favorite and the album’s most mainstream radio-friendly song, “Mountain At My Gates,” a more mellowed-down
traditional rock tune with jangly guitars and softer vocals. After the �irst two songs, the louder sound that Foals had promised begins to mellow back down into their usual experimental prog-rock sound. This isn’t necessarily a bad thing. Possibly the album’s �inest of the softer songs would be “Knife in the Ocean,” the album’s closing track, which is more ambient and textured than some of the noisier songs earlier in the album. The lyrics in “What Went Down” are cryptic and emotional, adding a level of mystery to the album’s overall tone, as well as themes of relationships. With lyrics like, “Unstitch the suture, please pause the future; So I can collect my things; The �ire is coming, but we’ll outrun it; We’ll never be undone,” the listener can pick up a post-apocalyptic vibe with a hint of optimism. In this album, Foals have demonstrated to their fans and music lovers alike
Photo credit: Warner Bros. Records
that they are most certainly able to successfully pull off both traditional rock as well as experimental sounds.
‘To Kill A Mockingbird’ Sequel Fails to Meet Expectations by Izza Choudhry
November 6th
Photo credit: Disney/Pixar
Photo credit: Lionsgate
Upcoming Movies...
November 20th
Photo credit: Lucasfilm/Disney
sassy remarks and thoughts. The childish, amusing dialogue in the �irst novel is part of the reason it was so captivating. She is also referred to as Jean-Louise rather than Scout, which shows how she has grown up. However, there are sentimental moments when Atticus refers to her as Scout. While her tomboy personality has vanished, she still stands up for the same ideals, such as feminism and denying the stereotype of Southern womanhood. Like any coming of age novel, there are cringeworthy moments where Jean-Louise opens her eyes and realizes how cruel the world can be. She �inally notices how the small town she grew up in has changed over time, and who the people she has known her whole life truly are. We see the dark sides of characters we love, and how they have changed with the town of Maycomb. It is dif�icult not to be disappointed with “Go Set a Watchman” because of the high expectations it had to live up to. By looking at it as its own piece of literature, I can not deny that it is still a beautifully written book. However, I am not a big fan of the Photo credit: HarperCollins Publishers character development. Acceptance and open-mindedness “To Kill a Mockingbird,” it will still �ill you are key to reading this novel. Although some with nostalgia when you see how much can parts are very disheartening, it is overall a change in the small town of Maycomb. wonderful read. While it is not a book that will make you feel better about the world like Photo credit: 20th Century Fox
Harper Lee’s highly anticipated second novel, “Go Set a Watchman,” was released this July. Readers either loved it or hated it, and English teachers everywhere have been shunned for reading it. “Go Set a Watchman” is the sequel to Lee’s �irst novel, “To Kill a Mockingbird,” an American classic adored by every generation. Although the story is written in a third person point of view, it continues to follow the perspective of Jean-Louise Finch, who is now 26 years old. Now living in New York, she often visits Maycomb and claims that it changes every time she returns. Everyone who read her �irst novel cannot deny how beautifully written it is. It is such a beloved book, making it dif�icult for a sequel to live up to its legacy, which may be why Harper Lee was so hesitant to publish it. While Scout is now an adult, the novel contains many nostalgic, heart-warming �lashbacks of her childhood with Dill and Jem that were not featured in the �irst novel. There are introductions to new characters, such as Scout’s boyfriend, Henry Clinton. There are also mentions of characters readers loved from the �irst novel that don’t appear, such as Dill. I will de�initely say this book wasn’t as enjoyable to read as “To Kill a Mockingbird.” Now that Jean-Louise is a logical, mature adult, readers never get to experience her
November 26th
December 18th
October 2015
Arts and Entertainment
Page 13
Johnny Depp Gets Gritty in ‘Black Mass’ by Caitlin Roth
It’s Johnny Depp as you’ve never seen him before. “Black Mass” hit theaters on September 18, telling the story of James “Whitey” Bulger, an infamous Irish ma�ia crime lord. After its release, it quickly rose to the number two spot at the box of�ice, and rightfully so. “Black Mass” spins an intriguing tale of the ma�ia and the FBI, as an alliance is formed between two childhood friends from opposite sides. The �ilm tells the story of two men from two very different backgrounds of life who are only connected by their childhood friendship. James “Whitey” Bulger led a life of crime as a mob boss, while his friend John Connelly became an FBI agent. One day, Bulger is approached by his old friend asking him to form an alliance with the FBI to take down another Ma�ia family. He reluctantly agrees, but the power soon goes to his head, since Connolly covers up the evidence for all of Bulger’s killings, drug cartelling, and other criminal activities. Bulger gives valuable information to the FBI, but a trail of mayhem is left in his wake. Everything about it is perfect for this kind of movie. The cinematography is gritty, dark, grimy, and dirty, perfect for the setting of a south Boston slum. I applaud the Director of Photography for a job well done. The director, Scott Cooper, is a newcomer to the
�ilm industry, but already is contributing multiple award-winning pieces. With this being his third big box of�ice �lick, we can expect great things from him. In combination with the stunning visuals, the actors pull their weight as well. Johnny Depp plays a phenomenal performance as Bulger, a part that is incredibly different from any other role he has played before. Depp is emotionless, cold-hearted, and a ruthless killer, perfecting the mob boss psyche. The rest of the cast shines as well. Kevin Bacon and Benedict Cumberbatch both make an appearance, and they do a fairly good job in their roles. The only bad thing I can say about Cumberbatch’s performance is that sometimes his thick British accent comes through, unlike his character who has a Boston accent. A fair warning to possible viewers: this movie is very violent and has coarse language throughout it. In no way does this �ilm glamorize violent behavior; instead, it shows you the downfall resulting from it. On the other hand, if you are planning to see a movie with just nonstop violence and killing, this is not the movie for you. It is a slow pace, intense story of the ins and outs of crime. Still, when the violence is there, it is intense and graphic. All in all, I give “Black Mass” two very
Photo credit: Warner Bros. Pictures
enthusiastic thumbs up. De�initely check it out if you’re looking for one of the best thrillers of the fall movie season.
Underground Music Spotlight Artist: Everything Everything
Label: Sony/RCA
Album Title: Get To Heaven Genre: indie pop, art rock Release date: June 22, 2015 Photo credit: Sony/RCA Records
Trivia: In late 2012, Everything Everything toured with the band Muse in Europe. Artist: Beach House
Label: Sub Pop
Album Title: Thank Your Lucky Stars Genre: dream pop Release date: October 16, 2015 Photo credit: Sub Pop Records
Trivia: “Thank Your Lucky Stars” was released only two months after Beach House’s last full-length album, “Depression Cherry”.
Artist: Sun Kil Moon
Label: Caldo Verde
Album Title: Universal Themes Genre: folk rock, indie folk Release date: June 2, 2015 Photo credit: Caldo Verde Records
Trivia: Sun Kil Moon’s previous album, “Benji”, was recognized as one of the “100 Best Albums of this Decade So Far” by Pitchfork Magazine.
Page 14
The Spotlight
Sports
Behind the Scenes: Friday Night Spectacle by Townsend Colley
Friday Nights. One of the most energetic nights across the green �ields of America’s high schools, it’s a time when alumni, students, and the community can all unite under one banner for at least one night a week. An atmosphere is present where people are free to cheer and scream out their frustrations of the work week at 22 high schoolers playing a game that the best get paid millions to play, for nothing but their own joy and school pride. School pride, however, extends beyond the football team on Friday nights. It’s not just the players who put in many hours of work a week to present the spectacle that can be seen on a 360-by-160-foot �ield. On the sideline, there are the cheerleaders, whose infectious, positive attitude extends into the crowd to even the most sour of spectators. Then there is the band, a group of students who play music to tantalize the ears of spectators and players alike, and light a �ire of excitement in the hearts of all who attend the Friday night spectacle. The football team spends countless hours practicing and preparing for the battle of wills and brute force that comes to be on a Friday night. Despite what it may look like at times, a football game isn’t just giving some kid a ball and having him run through a bunch of other kids smacking heads. Football is year-long commitment. In only a matter of weeks after the season ends, the players are back in the weight room three days a week with the end of the last season fresh in their minds. Then the team goes into a spring ball, a prepreseason practice series at the end of the school year. In the intense heat of early August, the team then meets again for double session practices, consisting of two three-hour practices a day with meals in between. After eight months of preparation, the season �inally comes, and the team practices six days a week. Mondays consist of a scouting report for the upcoming team followed by a practice that ends with an intense conditioning session. Tuesdays are full pads, full-contact practices, and Wednesdays are when the team begins to really crack down on strategies and �ine-tune techniques and
The Spartan football team rushes onto the field to put their week’s work to the test. Photo credit: Marlo Spritzer
plays for the upcoming game. By the time Thursdays come, the team can already begin to feel the excitement of a Friday night game creeping in. Finally game day arrives, and an atmosphere of seriousness can be felt in the locker room air as zero hour approaches. When the players run through the banner, they know the results of the week will show. The cheerleaders are no different from the football team or any other athletic team. They work hard and often to develop the skills and techniques necessary to enthrall the spectators into an atmosphere of excitement in even the biggest of blowouts. The team may practice two or three times week for anywhere from two to three hours. During these practices they go over every small detail that could affect the quality of their performance, covering techniques such as pyramids, sideline cheers, quarter cheers and free stunts. “We de�initely work a lot harder than people think,” senior cheerleader Jordan Munoz said. “A lot of us always have bruises from throwing people around.”
The cheerleaders must work as a team to safely lift each other to new heights as they perform their tricks for the crowd. Photo credit: Marlo Spritzer
Like any other team the cheerleaders have traditions that bring the team together, such as locker buddies or the underclassmen decorating the seniors’ bedrooms for senior night. “It’s a fun sport,” Munoz said. “Not many other sports just let you throw people around and catch them. There is a lot of trust involved and the team is always great, and relationships form.” The last group of students that make Friday nights memorable put in as much work as any sports team at Southern Lehigh. The marching band is one of the most talented groups of students in the school. Not only do they have to comprehend and play the music, but also they must dance and march in precise complex patterns to create a show that is entertaining for all. Typically, the process starts in the spring when the band directors meet to decide what kind of show and music they want to play for the upcoming band season, as well as deciding when they want to run band camp, which is like the double
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Members of the marching band perform their field show at halftime. Photo credit: Marlo Spritzer
session football practices. Band camp is an entire week where the band practices from around nine in the morning to seven or eight at night, with breaks for lunch and dinner. It is very similar to school where the day is split up into several periods and different facets of the show are learned and rehearsed. “It feels like a million hours [to prepare], but it really isn’t,” percussion instructor Mr. Paul Sabino said. “The kids work hard and we put on a good show because we do a little bit of everything at every time, and they’re always working every single day.” Band is a co-curricular activity, meaning it is both extracurricular and also a class that meets three times a cycle. The students work for many hours per week, both in and outside of school, in order to make their shows something special. After a long week of practicing and rehearsing, the marching band is still not done preparing for their halftime performance. The band will do another runthrough on Friday before the game to �ine tune different parts of the �ield show before �inally take its place on the bleachers at the stadium. “It’s great being able to go to the games and cheer on the team and play the �ight song,” said Mr. Sabino, who was a member of the band when he was a student at Southern Lehigh. “That is always something I got out of band when I did it.” During the game, while everyone else is walking around and talking with friends, the band is dutifully playing pep music, cheering on the team, and providing a rich, warm energy for the crowd. At halftime the band performs their �ield show, which consistently earns the ranking of superior at band competitions -- basically an A+ in the band world. Friday nights are a result of many different types of students all across the school putting in hundreds of hours of practice. These students strive to do their best in order to make Southern Lehigh Stadium the place to be. The Friday night spectacle is not just about football. It’s about school spirit, and none of it would happen without the hard work of all the students involved.
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Sports
October Issue
Page 15
New Coach, New Team, New Season
by Townsend Colley
Soccer is a sport where the ebb and �low of the game rolls as inconsistently as a ball on rocks. Every movement of every player becomes a catalyst to a game-winning goal or a full-time whistle. Much like the game of soccer itself, a team’s staff changes depending on the team’s needs. After twelve seasons with the Spartans, former head coach Terry Neville has stepped down from his role; however, he will remain as an assistant coach. Coach Neville has a combined record of 269-115-37, including seven seasons at Palisades, and �ive with Southern Lehigh. Over that time he has won �ive district titles with the Spartans. Taking his place will be former assistant coach, Mark Evans who has been with the team for several years now. Evans is not new to the head-coaching scene. In 2012 when Neville had a heart attack, Evans �luidly took over the lead role for the remainder of the season, helping the Spartans to a Colonial League title. The current seniors were freshmen that year, so this made Evans’ recent conversion from assistant to head coach slightly easier. Despite this change, many of the other facets of the team have stayed the same. “Coach Neville and I had a very similar soccer philosophy, so there have not been many major changes
to the team.” Coach Evans said. Despite taking a backseat as assistant coach, Neville played a very crucial role in the transition, leading to an easy change in coaching personnel. “Coach Neville is such a great person; he understands soccer, and he understands the role of assistant coach, and he doesn’t overstep his boundaries,” Coach Evans said. “So I think the team has transitioned well to recognizing me as head coach.” While the system hasn’t changed, the starting lineup has. The Spartans only returned four starters from last year’s district champion team, presenting an early-season challenge. “We have lots of seniors, juniors, and even sophomores stepping up into leadership roles,” senior Captain Jacob Cassel said. “There are lot of good players stepping up into positions and getting used to the program.” Coach Evans echoes this sentiment. “The players that we had expected to be leaders have been leaders,” he said. “It’s been great to see those type of players step up into the leadership roles and play at a higher level than they did last year.” Despite the coaching change, the team has not taken a step back in its
Head Coach Mark Evans offers guidance to senior Mitchell McColl during a game. Photo credit: Alyssa Chirumbolo
quest for dominance of the valley. Last year the team suffered a crushing defeat at the hands of Moravian and their team captain Jack Cambridge, who defeated the Spartans in penalty kicks in the Colonial League title game last year. While this would have set many other teams back, the Spartans rebounded and ended up winning the District XI title. This year the team’s eyes lie on the elusive Colonial League crown. “[The defeat] emboldened them to attempt to win the league again,” Coach Evans said. “I think that loss was hard for them. But they recovered very well.” The players and their new head
coach share the same goal: “play our best every game, win the league, and then move on to districts” sophomore standout Alex Milios said. Coach Evans has the Spartans on track to reaching their goals. As of October 21 the Spartans lost to Moravian Academy in the Colonial League playoffs. “I don’t think we’re more skilled than the team we had last year, but I believe this team is very hard working, they have a great team chemistry, a desire to play our system,” Coach Evans said, “and if they continue to play our system and with those qualities they will have a lot of success.”
believed that the team worked hard and deserved the opportunity to show their skills during halftime. “[The students were] really into it and were cheering for the young adults,” Cerciello said. “The next time I met with the team they couldn’t stop talking about how much fun it was.” The girls soccer team also raised money by holding a bake sale and collecting donations at the game. The boys’ charity night on October 6 focused on Camelot for Children, a social-gathering place for children who are seriously, chronically, and terminally ill, or who live with handicaps or disabilities. Camelot hosts parties throughout the year as well as a seven-week camp in the summer, where the children can work and play alongside volunteers. “The best thing about Camelot for Children is the family atmosphere,” Camelot for Children Assistant Director Kristen Bond said. During the event, some of the children and volunteers walked the Southern Lehigh players onto the field and were introduced during
halftime. A raffle was also held to raise money for the organization. “I think [Camelot] definitely got some more press [because] a lot of people came out,” senior Torin Vanin said. “I think they’re going to get a good amount of money from the raffles. It really just gets [Camelot’s] message out and spreads more awareness since Camelot runs on volunteers.” Vanin, as well as senior Mitchell McColl, are members of the Junior Board of Directors at Camelot for Children. Both the Special Olympics and Camelot for Children rely on volunteers and members of the community to keep their programs running. The organizations invite everyone to get involved. “Seeing the improvements that the players are making every single day and seeing how much they love playing soccer is really rewarding for me because sometimes I take for granted how lucky I am to be playing soccer with the high school,” Cerciello said about coaching and getting involved. “It reminds me why I started playing soccer and keeps me motivated.”
Boys and Girls Soccer Teams Play for a Cause by Talia Trackim
Seniors Evan Bothelo, Jacob Cassel, Cole Hefner, and Ben Johnston paired up with the children of Camelot for their special event. Photo credit: Jie Qian
The Southern Lehigh soccer teams have taken time this fall to give back to their community, each hosting a special charity night to raise money and awareness for local organizations that help people who are ill or live with disabilities. The girls soccer team dedicated their night to the Special Olympics and the boys soccer team hosted Camelot for Children. The Special Olympics is a movement that provides competitive events for children and
adults with intellectual disabilities. Athletes can partake in soccer, swimming, volleyball, and other olympic-style sports. “The best thing is the wide variety of friendships created through all ages and teams,” Lehigh County Special Olympics swim team coach Kristen Bond said. The Special Olympics Charity night was held on September 24. Senior Bridget Cerciello spearheaded the night. She coaches the Special Olympics soccer team, and
Page 16 Odds and Ends
The Spotlight October 2015
Spartans Have Spirit
Photo Credits: Caitlin Roth