Spotlight Senior Issue 2017

Southern Lehigh High School 5800 Main Street, Center Valley, PA 18034 Volume 60 Issue 6

Prom, College, Athletes, and More Senior Issue 2017 Photo Credit: Christmas City Studios In this

Issue: Get to know The Spotlight senior staff members before they graduate on June 9th! Senior bios on pages 4 - 5.

“Oh, the places they’ll go!” See where the senior Spartans will be attending school next year on pages 8 - 9.

Take a look at several Solehi teacher’s senior photos and see what advice they have for the graduating class on page 10.

Page 2

The Spotlight

Senior Recognition

Good Luck to Our 2017 LCTI Graduates!

Photo credit: Bridgette Lang

How do you think LCTI prepared you for the real world?

“I really did think it did prepare me for the real world. It gives you hands on training, hands on experience, and a lot of common sense.”

- Edward Gallagher

How did your classes at LCTI help you determine what career you want to pursue in the future?

“I knew I wanted to be in the mechanical field. I ended up picking small engines because automotive’s rotation was completely booked and I had a knack for small engines right away. I’m actually going into the automotive field for light/medium duty diesel though. I can’t see working on small engines for the rest of my life.” - John Schuebel

“I think it prepared me because I did nursing. It was hands on. I got the opportunity to know what it’s like to take care of someone.”

- Sabrina Markham

Who was your favorite teacher at LCTI? “Mr. Pfanders because he was very knowledgeable.” - Travis Wotring

Which school tradition are you most proud of at LCTI? “My favorite tradition is fat week, which we have every month or two. The culinary arts students will make fatty foods to sell during the day.”

- Brianna Callahan

Interviews by Bridgette Lange, Aries Baringer, and Ben Baca

Photo credit: Ben Baca

“Mr. Bernadine because he’s really supportive.” - Brandon Leonard

What is one thing you wish you could change about tech, high school, senior classes, etc?

“Honestly, I wouldn’t want to change a thing. It was a hell of a ride to make it to this point and I can’t wait to see where life takes me from here.” -William Murphy

Bradley DiFiore

Kaitlyn Guttman

Cory Hoffman

What is most memorable about your favorite teacher?

“I will always remember the help the teacher gave to me when I needed it, pushing me to succeed, and not to give up.”

Describe your senior year in three words.

“Fast, difficult, and enjoyable.”

Are you contracted to a company or planning to attend college or additional schooling?

“I’m going to college for nursing. At LCTI, I didn’t make it into the nursing program, so I chose the culinary route. It was my second choice, and definitely improved my hand working skills. It’s become a hobby for me.”

How do you think tech prepared you [for the real world/college]?

“Working hard at what you are good at and what you like will get you where you need to be in the end.”

Are you contracted to a company or planning to attend college or additional schooling?

“Well, I went to LCTI and I pretty much learned all I need to know. So, I’ve got a job at an electrical contract. They were talking about sending me to school.”

Who was your favorite teacher at tech or throughout all of high school?

“My [favorite] teacher is Mr. Merchlinsky because I was with him a lot. He was very patient, a great teacher, and showed me important skills I can use later on in my life.”

Photo credit: Ben Baca

Photo credit: Ben Baca

June 2017

Senior Recognition Page 3

Congratulations to the Class of 2017!

by Talia Trackim

Valedictorian Sarah Mackin

The Class of 2017’s valedictorian, senior Sarah Mackin, is certainly a force to be reckoned with.

Intelligent, organized, and fiercely passionate about learning about the world around her, she will leave a permanent mark on Southern Lehigh High School.

In class, Mackin excelled in all subjects, from science, to social studies, to Spanish. However, she especially loved AP English Literature and Composition, and Honors Civics and Government. Mackin also completed a sociology class at Lehigh University during the fall semester.

Outside of academics, Mackin was heavily involved on the Speech and Debate Team during all Photo credit: Izza Choudhry four years of her high school career, serving as the Overall Captain during her senior year. Mackin qualified to advance to states all four years, and she competed at the National Catholic Forensic League National Tournament during her sophomore and senior years.

“My most memorable moment from the team was on the van ride back from states my freshman year,” Mackin said. “There were only seven of us and it felt like such a close-knit, family-like group. I didn’t feel out of place at all even though I was the only freshman, and I realized that speech and debate was what I wanted to do for the next few years, not only because of the skills that I would gain, but because of the relationships that I would build.”

Aside from Speech and Debate, Mackin played as the JV goalie for the lacrosse team during her freshman and sophomore years, and she participated in Teen Counseling during her junior and senior years. She was also a member of Key Club and the National Honor Society, where she participated in Pennies for Patients and Fountain Hill Tutoring during her junior year. Outside of school, she spent much of her time studying Japanese, volunteering at Kirkland Village, and tutoring middle schoolers in math.

Next year, Mackin will attend Tufts University in Boston, MA, where she will major in Engineering.

“I’m excited to continue to learn and specialize in a certain area that truly interests me, rather than just taking everything because I have to,” she said, “because I love learn[ing] and having real world experiences.”

In reflecting on her high school experience, Mackin advises underclassmen to take risks: “Doing things out of your comfort zone or things that you wouldn’t have seen yourself doing a year or two years ago will often lead to some of the best experiences you’ll have in high school, so don’t be afraid to try new things.”

Salutatorian Daniel Qian

Known for his brilliance in calculus and computer programming, senior Daniel Qian will be graduating as the Class of 2017’s salutatorian. Qian has had an extensive high school career, involving himself in everything, from computer-based clubs, to sports, to music.

In the academic realm, Qian enjoyed classes such as AP Physics C, which he took as a junior, and gifted seminar. Alongside the normal high school curriculum, Qian also took Photo credit: Izza Choudhry Calculus 4 at DeSales University during the spring semester. The summer before his senior year, Qian attended the Pennsylvania Governor’s School for the Sciences at Carnegie Mellon University.

Outside of class, Qian served as the programmer for the Robotics Team during his sophomore, junior, and senior years.

He competed on the Scholastic Scrimmage Team for three years, presiding as president during his junior year, and he founded Southern Lehigh’s Math Club. Qian played both cello and soccer for all four years of high school. At the end of his junior year, he was elected president of the National Honor Society, where he participated extensively, volunteering at Fountain Hill Elementary School and serving as the treasurer for Pennies for Patients during his junior year.

“My most memorable moment from high school was getting my first detention two weeks before I graduated,” Qian said.

“On a more serious note, I will always remember travelling to St. Louis with the Robotics Team for worlds two years in a row.”

Next year, Qian will attend Johns Hopkins University in Baltimore, MD, where he plans to major in Computer Science.

“I’m excited for freedom. Freedom to branch out a bit,” he said. “In high school you’ve got to take certain classes and you’re restricted by living with your parents. You have more opportunities in college.”

His advice for underclassmen?

“Sleep more at night so you don’t fall asleep during class.”

2017 Senior Academic Award & Scholarship Winners Giuliana Augello: Southern Lehigh High School Academic Achievement Award Victor Aung: Premier Barcode Systems Amory Enterprises Inc. Award, Southern Lehigh High School Education Association Jack Higgins Memorial Scholarship, Southern Lehigh High School Scholastic Scrimmage Scholarship Mitchell Bauder: Youth Volunteer Scholarship Award Benjamin Becker: Fitzpatrick, Lentz, and Bubba Award Alexis Brown: Southern Lehigh Music Parents Organization Angela Burns: Lehigh Valley Chapter Pennsylvania Guild of Craftsmen Award Hannah Checkeye: Southern Lehigh Alumni Association Scholarship Ireland Cobb: R. Allen Kleinginna Memorial Scholarship Lauren Cocozza: Upper Saucon Volunteer Fire Dept. Award Elijah Cregger: Southern Lehigh Education Association Scholarship Noah Crowley: Coopersburg Lions Club Scholarship, Southern Lehigh High School award for Excellence in French Alexandra Curtis: Saucon Rod and Gun Scholarship Jenna Cyr: Copperhead Grille Scholar, Lutron Foundation Award for Outstanding Math Student, National Honor Society Southern Lehigh Chapter Scholarship, Southern Lehigh Education Association Scholarship, Southern Lehigh Education Foundation Award, TW Cooper Insurance Nina DeLuna: Jay T. Ruch Memorial Scholarship, Quakertown National Bank Award, Southern Lehigh High School Award for Excellence in Spanish Immersion Garrett DeMars: Good Citizenship Award, Upper Saucon Lions Club Scholarship Bradley DiFiore: Lower Milford Township Volunteer Lauren Deitch: Young Medical Spa Sarah Erie: Joseph P. Liberati Memorial Scholarship Georgian Fan: Dr. Paula A. Fantaski Scholarship Tanner Galluppi: Lower Milford Township Volunteer Fire Company #1 Award Katherine George: Upper Saucon Lions Club Scholarship Grace Glueck: Diana’s Cafe Award Amir Gold: Southern Lehigh High School Scholastic Scrimmage Scholarship Justine Groeber: Ken Machik Scholarship, Saucon Rod and Gun Club Scholarship, Southern Lehigh Student Council Scholarship, Good Citizenship Award Kaitlyn Guttman: Mary Miller Memorial Award Halle Hartman: Jeremy Allen Whetstone Memorial Scholarship, Officer David Petzold Memorial Scholarship Lindsay Helm: Diane Medeiros Academy of Dance Award Cory Hoffman: Lutron Foundation forOutstanding VoTech Student Alexander How: Upper Saucon Lions Club Scholarship Calvin Hurst: Michael Mahala Jr. Memorial Scholarship Lauren Jardine: Adrienne Elizabeth Bruchok Seigrath, Southern Lehigh Music Parents Organization Connor Kasarda: Dorrit Emerich Agency State Farm Insurance Brendan Kressler: Godshall’s Landscaping and Hydroseeding Inc. Award Corrine Koziel: Jeremy Allen Whetstone Memorial Scholarship, National Honor Society Southern Lehigh Chapter Scholarship, Southern Lehigh Education Association Scholarship Cassie Luzenski: Saucon Lodge No 469 F& A.M. Award, Southern Lehigh Key Club Scholarship

Sarah Mackin: John Berenzy Scholarship, John L. Squarcia Award, Southern Lehigh High School Award for Academic Excellence, Southern Lehigh High School Award for Excellence in Social Studies, Southern Lehigh High School Award for Excellence in Spanish Taylor Marouchoc: June V. Fegley Memorial Scholarship Megan McGuire: Southern Lehigh Student Council Scholarship William Murphy: Lee Maurer Memorial Scholarship Olivia Muscarella: National Honor Society Southern Lehigh Chapter Inspiring Service Scholarship Minh-Thai Nguyen: Howard Deppe Memorial, Lutron Foundation for Outstanding Physics Student, National Honors Society Southern Lehigh Chapter Inspiring Service Scholarship Emily Oberlender: Southern Lehigh High School Award for Scholastic Achievement Isabel Oberlender: Southern Lehigh VFW Post 3405 Scholarship Garrison Piel: Countryside Garden Club Award Kevin Publicover: Southern Lehigh Alumni Association Scholarship Daniel Qian: Jennifr Kaufenberg Memorial Scholarship, National Honor Society Southern Lehigh Chapter Scholarship, National Merit Scholarship, Southern Lehigh High School Award for Academic Excellence, Southern Lehigh High School Scholastic Scrimmage Scholarship Andrew Rochon: Ken Machik Scholarship, Copperhead Grille Scholar Britney Rowe: Lower Milford Township Volunteer Fire Company #1 Award Caleigh Schmid: Class of 1992 Award Kaylee Schmoyer: Mary Miller Memorial Award Nicole Schroy: Southern Lehigh High School Leadership Award Sloane Sexton: Upper Saucon Volunteer Fire Dept. Award Richard Sirard: Southern Lehigh High School Award for Excellence in Biology, Southern Lehigh VFW Post 3405 Scholarship, White Oak Counseling Center Award Brian Smith: Lutron Foundation for Outstanding Business Student Nina Tittensor: Coopersburg Construction Corporation Award, National Honor Society Southern Lehigh Chapter Scholarship Emily Tompkins: Kevin and Michaela Connelly Memorial Scholarship Talia Trackim: James Roberts Memorial Scholarship, Jennifer Bush Lawson Memorial Scholarship Patrick Treacy: The Inside Scoop Justin Trumbull: Putt U Miniature Golf Award Alissa VandeBunte: Roger DeGroot Humanitarian Award Brianna VandeBunte: Roger DeGroot Humanitarian Award Timothy Walter: Copperhead Grille Scholar Archer Waters: Saucon Lodge No. 469 F and A.M. Award Yanming Wen: Lester W. Reiter Memorial Scholarship Joshua Wentling: Upper Saucon Lions Club Scholarship Award Allyson Yanega: Alvarez Orthodontics Award, Copperhead Grille Scholar Sarah Yanega: Jessica Cascioli Memorial Scholarship John Zamichelli: Southern Lehigh High School Award for Excellence in Chemistry Jacob Zimmerman: Southern Lehigh High School Scholastic Scrimmage Scholarship

Page 4

Senior Bios

The Spotlight

Talia Trackim Editor-In-Chief

Photo credit: Ashley Jann

Caitlin Roth, a second year staff member, has followed an unusual path towards success at the Spotlight. Her first year on staff, Caitlin was a photographer and left the occasional movie review in the entertainment section. As a senior this year, Caitlin officially became a full-fledged staff reporter, and joined fellow senior Rachel Borelli as co-editor of the opinion section.

“I feel like my two [proudest moments] on the Spotlight were my Best of SNO publications, especially for my mental illness article,” Roth said.

During her four years in high school, Caitlin participated in the art and literary society, Emerging Health Professionals, Health Care Occupation Students of America, and photography club. Outside of school, she likes to draw, cosplay, photograph, hang out with her friends, play with her two dogs, Ariel and Jewel, and search for tourist traps.

Caitlin has had a large presence in the entertainment section of the newspaper, particularly this year, in the form of movie reviews. She advises everyone to take the time to watch a movie; some of her favorites are “A Clockwork Orange”, “Donnie Darko”, “My Own Private Idaho”, and “Ex Machina”, “The Graduate”, and “Brazil”.

“I have a very deep connection with film.

Ashley Jann Staff Reporter

Throughout her four years at Southern Lehigh High School, Talia Trackim has surely established herself as the girl who does it all. She joined the Spotlight staff in her freshman year as a staff reporter, became features editor sophomore year, and has reigned the past two years as editor-in-chief.

On top of managing the Spotlight, Talia has also been a member of the speech and debate team for four years, and part of both Scholastic Scrimmage and Teen Counseling for three years.

She also co-founded the Literary and Arts Club with Nicole Schroy her sophomore year, and has been leading it ever since. Outside of school, Talia was on the Camelot for Kids Junior Board of Directors,a writer for a women’s cultural blog and magazine since her sophomore year, and a part of Her Campus high school ambassador program.

Looking back, Talia especially treasures the times she spent with the speech and debate team: waking up at 5 a.m. to compete all over the country, visiting Florida and spending the whole day at the beach instead of watching final speech and debate event rounds (sorry, Mr. Long), freezing to death at Harvard, and playing mafia in the car.

Two of her most precious high school memories are when she helped raise over $4000 for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society (LLS) her junior year, and when she took part in a Global Nomads program her freshman year that allowed her to video conference with a girls’ school in Afghanistan and a boys’ school in Pakistan once My Grammy introduced me to film when I was young. I grew up on 80’s classic films from all types of genres.” said Roth, “It all really stems back to my Grammy, and she’s usually my partner in crime when I go to the movies. I’m proud to say I’ve seen about 650 movies, and counting!”

Throughout this school year, Caitlin has participated in Emerging Health Professionals.

This program has allowed her to accrue 8 college credits and knowledge that will aid her as she begins her education in college. Her favorite part of the program was getting to see a baby born.

“EHP was an amazing experience. I always knew I wanted to be in a career where I could help people, but this experience really solidified that I wanted to become a nurse.” Roth said.

As far as future plans go, Caitlin is going to attend Moravian University and major in nursing.

She hopes to take part in their student newspaper, and possibly minor in photography. While her future looks promising, Caitlin says she will miss participating in photography competitions and writing for the Spotlight.

“I want to give a shout out to my Grammy for always inspiring my passion for movies, my family for always loving and supporting me, and my friends for being amazing,” she said.

After taking a two year break from the Spotlight, Ashley Jann joined the newspaper once again for her senior year. This will be her second non-consecutive year as a member of the paper, as she took a break during her sophomore and junior years. She came back as a staff reporter for her last year at Southern Lehigh.

“I want to go out with a bang, I got to go full circle,” Jann said.

Before leaving to attend Delaware Valley University next fall, she plans to live it up for one last summer in Center Valley. Whether that be attending an abundance of graduation parties or enjoying herself at the Firefly Festival, she is sure to have a terrific time this summer.

Once she gets to college, she will work for her undergrad in animal science, with an overarching

or twice a month for six months.

However, newspaper will always hold a special place in Talia’s heart.

“I can’t not say that it’s stressful, but it’s also been a really huge part of me and my high school experience,” she said, “and has obviously shaped the career path I’m going down.”

Next year, Talia will be attending Syracuse University with a dual enrollment in the Newhouse School of Public Communications and the College of Arts and Sciences. She plans to major in either Public Relations or Magazine Journalism, and some other kind of liberal arts major that will give her a special expertise in a certain area. In 10 years, she sees herself hopefully working at a nonprofit organization or social good company such as Education First.

“Something that I wanna do in my career is tell stories about what, for example, what it’s like to live with a mental illness or what it’s like to live in this region of the world or do this and do that,” Talia said, “and I think reading those stories and engaging with those experiences with other people is such a valuable tool to tap into people’s empathy and compassion, build bridges, overcome differences, cross barriers, and make change.”

While Talia’s talent and ingenuity will certainly be missed by all of us here at The Spotlight, we look forward to all of the great things she’ll do, and wish her the best of luck with her future plans!

Photo credit: Caitlin Roth

Photo credit: Talia Trackim

Putting the Spotlight on Southern

Caitlin Roth

Co-Opinion Editor Staff Reporter

goal of attending veterinary school and becoming a veterinarian.

“I’ve always wanted to be a veterinarian since I was eight years old,” Jann said , “I’ve always had a love and appreciation for animals.”

Outside of the Spotlight, Jann can be found making with her friends, making them laugh with her enjoyable sense of humor. She thoroughly enjoys all animals, but most importantly dogs. She is a member of Key Club at the high school and thoroughly enjoys writing. Ashley also has plans to travel to Italy, Thailand, and Germany before or after college. She will miss most her fellow classmates and reporters at the Spotlight.

“I learned how to prioritize in this class.

When something had to get done I found a way to get it done,” Ashley said.

Senior Bios Page 5

June 2017

Allison Borelli Features Editor

Rachael Borelli began her senior year as a first-year staff reporter, but finished it as one of the co-editors of the opinion section. Just as quickly as her Spotlight staff career began, it is now coming to a close as she prepares to begin the next chapter of her life in college.

As a member of the Spotlight staff, Rachael covered everything from the school play, to global warming, to opinion articles where she expressed commonly held sentiments among the student body.

During her time in high school, Rachael was also a member of the soccer team where she has been on the varsity squad since her freshman year. Her fond soccer memories span all the way from pasta parties to sleepovers where she truly got to enjoy the bond of being a part of a team and accomplishing something together.

“I really enjoy the sport,” she said. “Getting to know the girls on the team has been a pleasure, everyone’s nice. Aso, the coaches are great.”

As she recounts what she has learned over the last four years, she said, “go to your limit and then break it.”

Rachael plans to attend Northampton Community College for two years before transferring to a four-year university to finish her degree. She plans to major in psychology, barring any signifi-

and Literature Club, the web editor of Key Club, and the vice president of Spanish Club. She also was a teen counselor and played field hockey throughout her years of high school. Outside of school, Schroy enjoys horseback riding and volunteering at Lehigh Valley Health Network.

“When ever I am surrounded by my friends, I have this bittersweet feeling. I look around and I am so proud of all my friends, but it is also sad because I am sure we will branch off,” Schroy said. “There are some I know I’ll stay in contact with and there are others that I am sure will be busy with their own lives.”

She will miss her teachers the most, especially Mr. Sinkler, Mr. Castagna, and Mr. Dougherty.

“Even though some teachers may get a bad rep they, for the most part, understand their students,” Schroy said. “Especially as a senior, I can connect with them because they are guiding me through senior year and prepping me for the real world.”

Allison Borelli is a four-year Spotlight staff member. She has been a student reporter all four years, and features editor for two.

Outside of the Spotlight, Allison participated in teen counseling for three years, Key Club for one year, National Honor Society, Literary and Arts Club, soccer, and winter and spring track and field.

Allison’s favorite classes during her time at Southern Lehigh were AP Environmental Science, Honors English 11, Creative Writing, and Newspaper Journalism.

Outside of school, she volunteers at her camp, and also has been involved with Betty Lou’s Pantry.

After graduating, Allison plans to go to Northampton Community College for two years, and then transfer into a four-year college. Right now, she is only thinking about Villanova as an option. She plans to major in environmental science and minor in journalism. In the future, she is thinking about a career as a journalist who writes about the environment.

Allison believes being a member of the Spotlight has helped her narrow down her career choices and help her prioritize what she wants to do in the future. She is also grateful that the Spotlight has taught her valuable design skills and cant changes to her interests over the next couple of years. She became interested in psychology through her interest in how people act as well as what she learned in AP Psychology.

“Honestly, I find people kind of interesting.

So I guess high school has kind of given me an opportunity, it sounds kind of creepy, but to see people interact,” Borelli said, “I get to see posturing and how people behave in different situations or how people think and their thought process.”

Wherever the path of Rachael’s life leads her, a few constants will remain. She’ll still be watching her favorite movie, “Deadpool,” and jamming out to her favorite song “Mr. Man” by Stephen as she beats the next level of her video game of choice, “Don’t Starve.” But she will always carry the lessons she learned throughout her high school experience with her.

“Apply yourself so you can figure out what you do and don’t like, because if you try your hardest you’ll always have the purest result of emotion because you’ll know you’ve tried hard and you won’t have any regrets later on,” Borelli said. “You won’t be like, ‘oh I wish I would’ve tried harder that year and gotten better grades because I could have, or I wish I didn’t underachieve.’”

Nicole Schroy Web Editor

given her opportunities she would have never taken before. “[Journalism has made me] become a go getter.” Allison said.

Allison’s most notable moments of high school include being nominated for a soccer scholar athlete award representing Southern Lehigh, and advancing to states for the annual Pennsylvania School Press Association journalism competition.

Allison’s proudest moment on the Spotlight is the first time one of her articles got published, “Minecraft: Fun Game or Educational Tool?” Her favorite memory during her time on the newspaper staff was staying at school until 9 p.m. to finish putting together an issue Overall, Allison said her favorite part of high school was, “making the friends I have and going through life with my twin.”

Her advice to high school students is to take advantage of their time. “Junior year goes into turbo mode.” She advises students to enjoy high school while you can and not to be afraid to take classes you like.

Allison’s hilarious jokes and comments will surely be missed, and the Spotlight wishes her the best of luck in her future!

Photo credit: Rachael Borelli

Photo credit: Allison Borelli

Senior Nicole Schroy is a fourth-year staff member of The Spotlight. Sophomore year, Schroy was the Arts and Entertainment editor and switched roles to being the web editor junior and senior year.

“It is really rewarding,” Schroy said. “We get feedback from other students and [are] the voice for the student body.”

This fall Schroy will attend King’s College for their five-year Physician’s Assistant program.

In the undergraduate program, she will major in medical studies with a minor in biology and neuroscience. In the graduate program, Schroy will get her Master of Science and her Physician’s Assistant degree.

“I am really excited to break away from Center Valley” Schroy said. “For the past 18 years this is all I have ever known and it is going to be fun to meet new people in a new place and do it all on my own.”

During her four years in high school, Schroy was the Class President, the co-founder of the Art

Photo credit: Nicole Schroy

Lehigh Journalism Seniors

Rachael Borelli Co-Opinion Editor

Page 6 Senior Reflections

The Spotlight

Letter From the Editor 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

Multimedia Editor Nicole Schroy

News Editor Izza Choudhry

Features Editor Allison Borelli

Center Spread Editor Danielle Alpert

Opinion Editors

Caitlin Roth and Rachael Borelli

Our World Editor Sarah Trebicka

Entertainment Editor Jamie Kish

Sports Editor

Townsend Colley

Staff Members Ben Baca Aries Baringer Sarah Jacobson Ashley Jann Maggie Moerder Quinn Schmidt Sarah Walters

Pennsylvania School Press Association 2016 Gold Rating 2015 Gold Rating 2014 Gold Rating 2013 Silver Rating National School Press Association 2016 First Class Rating 2015 First Class Rating

When I applied to be Editor-in-Chief (EIC) of the Spotlight at the end of my sophomore year, I had no idea that the world of journalism, writing, and storytelling was about to completely take over the remainder of my high school career. But here I am, a soon-to-be high school graduate preparing to go to college for communications.

Whoopee.

If I could sum up my experience as EIC in one word, it would most definitely be “hectic.” From editing in the publications lab until after 7:00 p.m. every month, to losing sleep over deciding what I would put on the back page, to engaging in countless discussions encouraging my argumentative friends to write letters-to-the-editor, it’s been a whirlwind that still hasn’t quite slowed down.

But it’s really been wonderful. Since being EIC, I’ve grown into a tougher, more confident individual. Those who have been friends with me since middle school would say I finally grew a spine. I’ve learned what it takes to run a publication, the true weight of what it means to take responsibility for a product and a group of people, and I have gained invaluable skills and knowledge in ethics, consumer responsibility, and leadership that will carry me through life.

Before I pass on my role to the next EIC, junior Sarah Trebicka, I would like to take a moment to thank some key people who have made this crazy journey possible. First off, to the readers of the Spotlight: If you love our work, if you hate it, it doesn’t matter to me. Thank you for reading. Thank you for talking about our work. Thank you for asking for more. Everything we do, we do for you.

To the entire staff of the Spotlight: thank you for all of your hard work and dedication. Quite literally, with-

out you, there would be no Spotlight. Everything we do is possible because of you. It has been a privilege to work with a group of such passionate, intelligent, eloquent individuals, and I am so very thankful for each and every one of you.

To Nicole and Allison: together the three of us took over the Spotlight last year, and it’s amazing to see how we’ve grown since. Thank you for leading with me. Thank you for always being there to help me with odd projects, for giving constructive criticism and endless support, for being the talented, amazing people that you are. I can’t wait to see where you, as well as the other seniors, Caitlin, Ashley, and Rachael, go in life.

To Sarah, Izza, Townsend, and Danielle (next year’s senior editors); it’s been wonderful watching you grow as writers and editors. Now it’s your turn to lead.

Good luck with college applications; I promise you everything will work out. You’re going to be brilliant.

And of course, to Mrs. Spritzer. Thank you for putting in hundreds of hours to make the Spotlight possible.

Your guidance is a huge inspiration to me, and it will continue to motivate me as I enter the next stage of my life. I’ll always treasure our talks of editing styles, “Gilmore Girls,” and life in general.

Four years on the Spotlight has been quite the journey.

Here’s to many more years of success.

Best, Talia Trackim Editor-in-Chief The Spotlight

June 2017

Senior Reflections

Page 7

#SoSenior - A Reflection of Our High School Experience

by Nicole Schory

High school is full of cliches, but the one that seems to be most prominent is the fact that it all goes by in the blink of an eye. Friends from middle school may start to wane as other priorities emerge in the daily lives of students. Sports, clubs, education, friends, family. There are a lot of factors that change over the years.

“High school has definitely helped me learn what is important to me in my life and in my future,” senior Sophie Boyle said. “It’s definitely given me new experiences and it has changed my perspective on things.”

Homecoming is filled with school spirit and underclassmen getting screamed at to “move back” on the bleachers so that more students can file into the student section. When a victory is earned, the students storm the field in a race to embrace their friends on the football team.

And let’s not forget about all of the homecoming asks. Hoco proposals never fail in terms of cleverness. High school students have four years of dancing (vertically, of course) and getting dolled up for this big event.

At football games, glitter will be thrown everywhere and students will find themselves picking glitter off of their clothes a month after football season ends. Seniors lead the cheers and the freshman get yelled at, a tradition at most high schools. Only expect a quiet student section when it’s half time, because Spartans #RespectTheBand and colorguard. However, as soon as they leave the field, feel free to peek over at the student section, where students will be buckling up to ride the Southern Lehigh Rollercoaster!

Spartans win. A lot. From athletics, to speech and debate tournaments, to the Freddies, and so much more, Spartans embrace the pursuit of excellence in all aspects. And when we do lose, it’s the worst. Whether it’s your freshman year and you have yet to leave the bench for a varsity game, or your senior year and the last game you will ever play, it hits you where it hurts.

The Coopersburg Diner and chicken turnovers are highly admired by Southern Lehigh students. (If you are present on a chicken turnover day, please look out for running students.

It’s a hazard, but easily forgivable on such an important day.)

Prom panic usually starts towards the end of the third marking period. Dresses and tuxes need to be purchased and appointments need to be made, and of course, promposals need to be done! Prom is one of the last hurrahs in a high school career.

While high school might not seem like much, there are plenty of opportunities to make the best of it. Looking back at the past four years, the journey from freshman year to senior year has built a lot of character in many students.

Go Home Freshmen Freshman year is a time for transition. Middle school always seems to fall short of preparing students for what the first year of high school holds. Sometimes a student will take all of the available honors courses that they can, and sometimes their friends blindly follow. Other times, students veer off into their own paths.

“While it wasn’t all that fun being a freshman, it was nice having a lot more options in the classes that I could take,” sophomore Olivia Perez said. “I feel like freshman year is portrayed as something horrible, but it really wasn’t that bad.”

The fear of fitting in typically goes away (eventually), but as a freshman you are at the bottom of the food chain. “Go home freshmen” will be chanted, echoing through the bleachers at football games or basketball games or pretty much any event that can host the entire student body.

As a new dawn appears over Southern Lehigh, so does a new beginning for the graduating class of 2017. Photo credit: Allison Borelli

It may seem scary at first, but high school appears to be a bunch of students trying to figure themselves out while balancing a variety of things on their shoulders. Academics, sports, clubs, volunteering-there are so many doors to open in high school.

Take Two At this point, sophomores can confirm that there isn’t a pool on the roof (sorry freshmen.)

This is the first year that you can chant “go home freshmen!” You only have three years of this, so make sure you take advantage of it.

Sophomores are no longer the babies of the school; they are free to coast through the year. And by coast, I mean survive through the graduation project and CTA. Not that the work is particularly difficult, but it is one of the main complaints of sophomore year. Despite the controversy, it is pretty beneficial to be able to peek into the future with a couple of job shadows and further research about a potential career.

“Sophomore year for me was a lot more laid back than my other years because I didn’t have the newness of freshman year, but I didn’t have the stress of junior year so I could really just relax and focus on my studies,” Boyle said.

Third Time’s a Charm Junior year is probably the most academically crucial year. Senioritis may try to sneak into junior year, but it is far easier to ignore. Junior year is situated over halfway through a high school career, but there is still so much work to do “Academic-wise, I heard that it’s the toughest year, but I know a lot of people who really just make the best of it,” Perez said.

The SAT and the ACT add a lot of pressure to the second to last year of high school. Taking a timed exam with a bunch of other stressed out students is definitely not something to look forward to.

At this point in a high school career, college will start to come into the picture. Take advantage of the college visits, try to focus on what you want to spend the rest of your life doing. Easy stuff, right?

The stress of college is usually the biggest monster of junior year. Where are you going to go? In-state? Out-of-state? Public? Private? Small?

Medium? Large? What are you going for? Are you sure you want to spend the rest of your life doing that?

“Juniors are motivated and willing,” English teacher Mr. Joseph Castagna said. “They’re sophisticated enough for really good discussion in class but then we bombard them with standardized tests and SATs and a whole slew of other requirements, leaving them totally exhausted and burned out for senior year.”

Though junior year is infamous, you will (hopefully) forget the excruciating amount of pain by your senior year. ““There’s definitely been both peaks and valleys in my high school year but I’ve, for the most part, enjoyed it,” Boyle said.

Senior Year “Go home freshmen!” Seniors make sure they do not miss out on this monumental moment, their chance to shine, their last chance for redemption as they lead the chant at pep rallies.

While freshman year was a new experience, a time for new opportunities, senior year is a year of lasts and a year of goodbyes. Though it is a sad time, it is also a time where students really seem to break out of their shells and branch out.

“My favorite thing about high school has been meeting new people and getting out of my comfort zone and joining clubs,” Boyle said. “All the people that I have met and all of the friendships I have made...I’m definitely going to miss that next year.”

At this point in a high school career, students seem to be able to connect more with their educators as the “real world’s” approach becomes more and more relatable.

“I would like to dispel the myth that when you graduate from high school you’ve crossed a finish line and now you’re going to run off and college is going to be everything you want to study and it’s [going to be like the movies.]” Mr. Castagna said. “Really it’s just four more years of intense education.”

It doesn’t feel too real, as caps and gowns are being ordered. Graduation seemed so far away.

However, with the blink of an eye, the fourth year of high school will come to an end.

(Students: If this article hasn’t sparked up any good memories, check your closet. I’m sure you have plenty of t-shirts to remind you of all the quality projects and events that Spartans take part in.)

Page 8

Senior Map

“Oh, The Places They’ll Go”

The Spotlight

June 2017

Senior Map

Page 9

“Graduation is an exciting time. It’s both an ending and a beginning: it’s warm memories of the past and big dreams for the future.”

- Anonymous

Page 10

Senior Athletes

The Spotlight

Seventeen Seniors Bound for College Athletics Lucas Hudson Lucas Hudson has been the starting point guard for the Spartans basketball team since his freshman year. During that time he has experienced four winning seasons and made the Colonial League and District XI playoffs all four years.

Southern Lehigh’s all-time assist leader will now be bringing his full court game to Misericordia University where he will play basketball and study marketing and business.

“The depth of Lucas’s game has yet to be reached, but some of his potential can be discerned from his incomparable full court game and his incredible ball handling skills,” head basketball coach Ben Tannous said.

Alissa Vanderbunte After four years of running track and compiling a team record of 43-3, Alissa Vandebunte will be taking her winning ways to West Chester University where she will run track and cross country. Vandebunte is a four-time Colonial League medalist, a member of the 4x8 school recordholding team,and she also set the school’s indoor 1600 meter record.

“She is just a passionate, dedicated, gutsy performer who has really just developed over time into a very strong and mature athlete and young woman,” head track and field coach Cotie Strong said.

Jenna Cyr Jenna Cyr will be attending the University of Scranton in the fall of 2017 where she will play field hockey and major in applied mathematics. During Cyr’s career she has had an incredible save percentage of 86, and has been a two-time all Colonial League selection. During the 2016-17 season she had 93 saves. In her senior year she was named to the second team all-state field hockey team.

“Having Jenna in goal has been a mainstay us for the field hockey program,” head field hockey coach Adrienne Searfoss said. “Not only was she an excellent goalkeeper, but an excellent leader, excellent captain, and she was able to do things in the goal that not many goalkeepers are able to do.”

Andrew Rochon Yale University will be adding a key thrower to their track and field program next year when Andrew Rochon enrolls as an economics major. Rochon finished his high school career with an abundance of accomplishments. He was a six-time district qualifier and a two-time state qualifier. He accompanied that with seven Colonial League medals.

“His combination of dedicated work ethic, attitude, and leadership skills as a threeyear captain has helped lead this team to success,” assistant track and field coach Brenton Ditchcreek said.

Brianna Vanderbunte Brianna Vandebunte will finish her career with a combined 132-12 track and field and cross country record. It can be argued that this is the best record for any four-year stretch of Southern Lehigh history. Vandebunte will be following her sister and will be running at the next level for West Chester University and where she will major in business. Vandebunte was a spring track captain, a member of the school recordholding 4x8 team, a member of the school record holding 4x4 team, and set the Colonial League championship meet record in the 800 meter race. She is a three-time Colonial League medalist.

“Brianna is willing to do whatever it takes to be the best that she can be and also to be a supportive teammate, also doing whatever it takes to perform,” Coach Strong said.

Zach Rudolph Zach Rudolph will attend Hobart and William Smith College to play football and major in pre-med and biology next year following his incredible career as a Spartan.

After suffering a serious leg injury at the beginning of his junior year, Rudolph fought back and became a first team all Colonial League lineman his senior year, and he represented the United States in an all-star game in Ireland.

“Zach brought an amazing drive and determination to the football program,” head coach John Toman said.

June 2017

Senior Athletes

Page 11

Interviews and photo acquisition by Townsend Colley and Quinn Schmidt

Hannah Checkeye

Timmy Walter

Hannah Checkeye will be attending the University of Mary Washington next fall as a biology major and lacrosse player. As a captain of the team for her senior year, she gave the Spartans a valuable defensive player with her leadership and communication always on full display. She plans to add to an already successful Mary Washington team who went 15-6 this year.

“She has a tremendous amount of enthusiasm for the game that she shares with all others,” head coach Jen Hurlburt said.

Franklin and Marshall College will be receiving one of Southern Lehigh’s best football players next year in Timmy Walter, who plans to major in business. Walter had an incredible career as a Spartan, becoming the Colonial League’s second leader in receptions racking up 133 catches along with a school record 27 touchdowns.

“Timmy brings a passion to the sport that you don’t find very often,” head coach John Toman said, “it’s been a true honor for all us coaches who have coached him for the past four years.”

Allyson Yanega

One of the girls track and field and cross country team’s most versatile athletes will be taking on her the next-level challenge in the fall. Allyson Yanega will head off to Dickinson College to run track and cross country and major in biology. Yanega was a captain for the cross country team and spring track and field team. She was a four-time all-league selection and a state qualifier in cross country.

Yanega was the anchor for the school recordholding relay teams.

“She is a fierce competitor. She is a courageous person when it comes to running,” Coach Strong said. “This past year in cross country, somehow out on the trail she tripped and hit her knee on a rock and required some stitches and a week later she ran in the league cross country meet and scored valuable points for the team to be able to win that meet.”

Stephen Gray The leader of Southern Lehigh’s cross country and long distance track team will now be taking his talents to the next level. Stephen Gray will ship off to North Carolina to attend High Point University where he will run track and cross country for the Panthers while he studies business. During his time at Southern Lehigh, Gray has been a fourtime Colonial League winner and a two-time state qualifier, and he has set the school record for the indoor 1600 meter race.

“Stephen leads by example, he’s always focused, and never lets his emotions get too high or too low,” head cross country coach Justin Kocis said. “He is a calming force on the team. He always gives 110 percent.

He always has a team first mentality over individual accomplishments.”

Sarah Yanega

Dickinson College will be taking another piece of the successful girls cross country and track and field teams when Sarah Yanega joins her sister in Carlisle. Sarah will run cross country and track as well as major in political science. Yanega was a captain for the cross country team and a three-time all-league selection. She was a member of the highly successful girls cross country team that went undefeated and won the Colonial League championship during the fall of 2016. Yanega was also the lead-off runner for the recordholding relay teams.

“Sarah really always stepped up to the occasion,” Coach Strong said. “She wasn’t always the top girl on the cross country team but there were times where due to injury or due to illness a couple of the girls were out and she would step up and score those points for the team , and was very valuable.”

Kori Buhosky Kori Buhosky will be one of Susquehanna University’s newest lacrosse recruits next year while she majors in business. As an attacker, Buhosky’s leadership proved to be key as she lead the team to the District XI semifinals.

“She has earned the respect of her team and coaches not only as a player, but as a tireless supporter of every one of her teammates both on and off the field,” head coach Jen Hurlburt said.

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Senior Athletes

The Spotlight

Dominick Esposito

Stephanie Schmidt

Dominic Esposito will enroll at DeSales University next fall to compete in track and field while majoring in theatre. He has been a four-year competitor for the boys track and field team at Southern Lehigh, and he was elected spring captain while running leadoff for the 4x100 meter relay.

“He’s a great leader, that type of leadership on our team was very crucial,” Coach Strong said.

The Millersville University lacrosse program will gain a lethal attacker in business major Stephanie Schmidt.

Schmidt’s underestimated quickness and stickhandling gave her an advantage over her competitors throughout the season.

“Steph brings a ton of energy to the field, a positive attitude, and that has made her a pleasure to coach,” head coach Jen Hurlburt said.

Connor Murtaugh Following an outstanding spring that saw the team go 16-4 in regular season play, Southern Lehigh will be sending ace pitcher Connor Murtaugh off to Gettysburg College to continue his baseball career. While at Gettysburg, Murtaugh will continue to pitch as well as major in English.

Following a second-team all-Colonial League postseason, Murtaugh will bring his howitzer of an arm to a Bullets team that finished 22-17-2 last season.

“Going into this season, the baseball team’s success rested largely on Connor’s shoulders and we challenged him to be a bull on the mound for us by absorbing most of the innings and winning us six plus games,” head baseball coach Todd Miller said. “Connor finished the regular season with seven wins, zero losses, and an ERA of 1.47.”

Nicole Brintzenhoff One of Southern Lehigh’s most successful teams, girls tennis, will be sending one of its starting doubles players off to the next level. Nicole Brintzenhoff went from not even making the team her freshman year to the top of Colonial League tennis when she finished the 2017 season with a record of 12-3. In the fall of 2017, Brintzenhoff will head off to Susquehanna University to play tennis and major in publishing and editing.

“I couldn’t be prouder of her for how far she’s come in these four years and how far she has yet to go,” head tennis coach Andraea Drabenstott said.

Andrew Malicki Andrew Malicki will take his lacrosse talents to Ursinus College next year as he majors in international business. He has been a stout defensive presence for the Spartans over the past four years, and he plans to bring that to an already successful Ursinus squad.

“He’s a good solid young man,” said assistant coach Brian Duffy, “I know that will carry with him in the future at Ursinus.”

June 2017

Advice for Seniors

Page 13

Teachers’ Parting Words of Wisdom for Seniors Mr. Joseph Castagna

Mrs. Sheryl Ciotti

“Follow your dreams, unless your dreams don’t pay. Then drop them like a bad habit.”

“This above all: to thine ownself be true.” -Polonius, Hamlet, William Shakespeare

Mr. Brian Dow

Mrs. Kelly Howsare

“Be smart, be funny, and be kind.”

“Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.” -The Golden Rule

Mr. David Long

Mrs. Christine Siegfried

“Be sure to take a class or do something in life because you enjoy it, not just because you have to.”

“Continue to work hard at whatever you do, but also enjoy each stage of life. Take risks, meet new people, learn from others, give back as much as you can, and, most importantly, respect others and their differences.

Mr. David Dougherty

“Let your past be your wisdom, let the future be your hope, and let your present be where you accept and appreciate that both exist.”

Mrs. Leigh Kern

“Don’t be afraid to take chances. And remember: ‘The truth is, most of us don’t know where we are going until we arrive.’ -Calvin (of Calvin and Hobbes)”

Mrs. Marlo Spritzer

“Nothing truly worth doing, worth having, comes easy. Be sure your efforts and your choices the ones that bring you satisfaction at the end of the day. It’s your life to live, no one else’s. Make it yours.”

Page 14 Senior Favorites

Class of 2017’s Favorite Movies

Class of 2017’s Favorite TV Shows

Class of 2017’s Favorite Songs

The Spotlight

June 2017

Senior Favorites

Page 15

June:

Summer Movies 2017

Photo credit: Dreamworks

Photo credit: Warner Bros.

Pictures

Photo credit: Universal Pictures

Photo credit: Paramount Pictures

July:

Photo credit: Walt Disney Pictures

Photo credit: A24 Films

Photo credit: 20th Century Fox

Photo credit: Orion Pictures

Photo credit: STX Entertainment

Photo credit: Columbia Pictures

Photo credit: Lionsgate

Photo credit: Warner Bros.

Pictures

Photo credit: Dimension Films

August:

Photo credit: Marvel Studios

Page 16 Senior Memories

The Spotlight

Highlights from Prom 2017!

A word from the advisor...

No two years of any activity are alike, but especially

when that activity brings so many voices into one place.

This year the Spotlight graduates six seniors who have truly made their mark in the way that they have shared of themselves with both our class and community.

Rachael, it may have been only your first year on staff, but it feels like much longer. That might have something to do with the fact that you spent a couple of years hanging out in the pub lab with your twin. I’m glad you joined us, and brought your own individuality with you.

Ashley, you were a promising freshman writer, one of the ones I thought got away, so for you to return to the staff in your senior year for round two not only made me very happy, but I appreciate the ideas you’ve contributed.

Caitlin, when you first joined us as a junior, I thought we were getting a great photographer, and I was right, but I had no idea that we were getting so much more.

Your passion for film combined with your quirky sense of humor and unique writing style have given us some of our most memorable movie reviews to date, and you’ve

also given us much more to think about in your more serious work (and your random movie quotes). I’ve loved every conversation, from music to film (long live Sharknado). There is no one quite like you.

For the second time in my tenure as advisor, I’m lucky to have raised a core group of student journalists through all four years of their high school career. Allison, Nicole, and Talia, It’s been such a privilege to watch the three of you learn and grow from quiet freshmen into confident young women who have shown incredible leadership for the last two years as you have dedicated yourselves to creating a quality publication.

Allison, when you were a freshman, I honestly thought you hated this class, so it was such a nice surprise when you came back. I’ve always been able to count on you to go the extra mile and pick up more than your share to make it all happen. It’s been really cool to see you transform from that quiet kid in the corner to a much more outspoken (and funny) version of yourself.

Nicole, your voice of reason has been a balancing

June 2017

force on more than one occasion, and you’ve been such a significant part of our team. Most importantly, I’ve been able to put complete trust in you to ensure that our website is maintained, and you’ve single-handedly ensured that our articles are out there for the world to see. You’re definitely going to be a tough act to follow!

Talia, you’ve always been such a wonderful writer, but putting my faith in you as editor-in-chief two years ago was the best decision I possibly could have made.

Regardless of your busy schedule, you always found the time to ensure your vision for each issue was realized.

I’m not sure that anyone truly knows how much time you have given to all of us, simply because you believe in the cause. The bonus, of course, is that in all those extra hours, we’ve spent a lot of time together, talking, laughing, venting, and you’ve become the Rory to my Lorelai.

All six of you have made a difference and I couldn’t be more proud you. I’ll miss seeing you in my room more than you know, but I can’t wait to see what you do. Congratulations, and good luck. Love, Spritz