Tamaqua Blue and White - Issue 2, Volume 4

Tamaqua Blue and White Magazine: Issue II, Volume IV : Second Quarter Edition

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Table of Contents:

Page 3: Talk it up Tuesday Page 4-5: Basketball Page 6: Dylan Rynkiewicz & Wrestling Page 7: Christmas Recipes Page 8: Studying for Midterms Page 9: Safe-Trick-or-Treat Page 10-11: Formal Page 12-13: Powderpuff Football Page 14: Comic Page 15: New Year’s Resolutions Page 16: Middle School Dance Page 17: Defining Character Page 18: WP Student’s of the Month Page 19: Elf on the Shelf Page 20: Honoring Veterans

Talk it up Tuesday!

“All of the great leaders have had one characteristic in common: it was the willingness to confront unequivocally the major anxiety of their people in their time.This, and not much else, is the essence of leadership.”

-John Kenneth Galbraith

When your mom says that she got an e­mail from one of your teachers, what is your initial reaction? I would be horrified simply because I usually expect something to be addressed only when there is an issue. How often do your little victories get acknowledged? Getting a good grade on a test, keeping yourself organized, or helping out another student are all small details that blend in with the flow of hectic everyday life and are frequently unnoticed simply because there are more demanding things to focus on; however, dwelling on these actions and understanding their significance inspires and encourages the deeds to become more frequent. People as a whole take these achievements for granted, and while we strive for success, we often disregard those who have already become successful. You change the world by doing things, not because you’re trying to change the world.

By: Allison Amodea

George Washington, for example, was oblivious that he would one day be seen as the founder of the nation that would be a significant world leader. Similar to how a student might feel like they are stepping out of their comfort zone, George Washington had just as little confidence: “In his memoirs, he wrote that on the eve of his inauguration he felt more like a culprit who is going to the place of his execution than a national hero” (George Washington). Unaware that his efforts would influence people of the world for centuries, he unselfishly proceeded to do what was asked of him. On a smaller scale, encouraging these bursts of bravery in the school environment will ultimately cause them to increase and will nurture those who will make grander attempts in the future. The recognition the “Talk It Up Tuesday” announcements provide are beneficial to everyone ­­now and in the future.

Tamaqua Blue and White Magazine: Issue II, Volume IV : Second Quarter Edition

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Boys Basketball

The 2014-2015-basketball season has high expectations since the last two years have led to well ended seasons.

The goals for the team are to make Schuylkill League Playoffs. The varsity team consists of players who all have varsity experience. The team has been working hard during their off season by playing in scrimmages and having practices. The team has been building a reputation on becoming a better team for the last two years, and after the first few games, the boys have been keeping the reputation alive by continuing their winning streak. The team will continue to work had and would like if the students of Tamaqua High School will show their school spirit and come to their games and support them as they try to reach their goals.

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Tamaqua Blue and White Magazine: Issue II, Volume IV : Second Quarter Edition

Girls Basketball This year, our girls basketball ream is working hard, day in and day out, to make our school proud. The five seniors Paige Demetriades, Bailee Hartung, Brianna Wittig, Vanessa Solt, and Emily Pratka, are working toward building a better structural and fundamental team. JV and varsity work together through every practice, strengthening their defensive and offensive skills. The team just recieved new sweats and travel gear for games, thanks to the support of the boosters. Going into the season, the team was looking at newer and brighter things. Even though the season started off rough, we are looking into finishing the season strong. The team as a whole is working its hardest to imporve daily and plans on pulling through some wins this season.

Tamaqua Blue and White Magazine: Issue II, Volume IV : Second Quarter Edition

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The Journey to 100 Dylan Rynkiewicz

Meet Dylan Ryn... how do you pronounce his last name anyway? You better learn fast because this grappler has achieved a huge milestone. Since he started wrestling in kindergarten, Dylan has had the same dream: to stand on that podium and accepet his gold medal as a state champion. During his junior year, his season ended one measley win away from the state tournament, so he began his last year in Tamqua High with fire in his eyes. Future state champs put in a ton of time in the offseason , and it is this time and energy that helped Dylan obtain a 100-30 record. That’s right, he’s achieved 100 wins! This is an amazing feat- one that accompanies long hours on the mat, tons of mental discipline, and plenty of blood, sweat, and tears. Come out and support Dylan and the future wrestling team this season. They would appreciate your support, and as a bonus, you will see a future Roger Williams Universtiy wrestler! Congrats, Dylan, and all of the Tamaqua Wrestlers.

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Tamaqua Blue and White Magazine: Issue II, Volume IV : Second Quarter Edition

Christmas Recipes Candy cane cookies Ingredients • • • • • • •

1 box sugar cookie mix 1/2 stick butter, melted 1 egg 1/3 cup softened cream cheese 1/2 cup all-purpose flour, plus additional for surface Red food coloring 1 1/2 teaspoons peppermint extract

Preheat oven to 325 degrees F. In a bowl, combine sugar cookie mix, melted butter, egg, cream cheese, and flour; mix together to form dough.

Separate dough into 2 equal portions and place in 2 different bowls. Add red food coloring gradually to 1 bowl of dough, kneading together until desired shade of red is created. To second bowl of uncolored dough, add peppermint extract and knead together. On a floured work surface, shape each dough into balls and then roll each ball into 1/4-inch-wide ropes, each about 6 inches long. For each cookie, carefully twist some of the red and white ropes of dough together and shape into a candy cane. Spread candy canes out on cookie sheets and bake on the top shelf of the oven for about 10 to 12 minutes. Transfer to a rack to cool before serving.

Strawberry Santas Ingredients

• Frosting: • 1/4 cup mascarpone cheese, at room temperature • 1/4 teaspoon pure vanilla extract • 1 cup powdered sugar • Santas: • 12 large strawberries • 24 mini chocolate chips Directions Special equipment: Pastry bag fitted with a small star piping tip For the frosting: In a medium bowl, using an electric hand mixer, beat the mascarpone and vanilla until smooth. Gradually beat in the powdered sugar until the mixture is thick and smooth. Using a spatula, transfer the frosting to a piping bag fitted with a small star piping tip.

For the Santas: Using a paring knife, cut off the leaf-end of each strawberry to make a flat surface. Cut a 1/2- to 3/4-inch piece from the pointed end of each strawberry and reserve as the hats.

Place the strawberries, wide-side down, on a work surface. Pipe a 3/4-inchhigh swirl of frosting on each strawberry. Place the hats on top and pipe a small ball of frosting on top of the hats. Press two chocolate chips, pointed-sides inward, into the swirl of frosting to make eyes.

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STUDY TIPS FOR MIDTERMS I know it’s a word that none of us want to hear. Unfortunately, they are coming up right around the corner. Everyone is stressing out about them, but they aren’t that bad if you come up with a study plan. Here are some tips to get you started:

Don’t procrastinate. I know, now more than ever, about night-before disease. We all have it, but for midterms and finals, you NEED to try to fight it.

Pace yourself. I take a few liberties with this... Don’t just study for five minutes and then take a break for an hour, but if you study non-stop for 2+ hours, it’s going to drain all of the energy out of you.

Study for half an hour and take a 15 minute break.

Limit distractions. if you surround yourself with music and TV, you won’t get anything accomplished.

Keep your phone away too. Your boyfriend/girlfriend can survive without you for a couple hours

Alternate between subjects. I find it so boring to study History for two hours straight.

Alternate between your subjects instead of pounding out one subject.

Do not be afraid to ask for help. your teachers are there to teach you. If you’re struggling while studying, send them an email. I promise, they won’t shoot you down. They are there to help us. They don’t want us to fail.

Keep these ideas in mind and good luck! May the odds be ever in your favor!

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Tamaqua Blue and White Magazine: Issue II, Volume IV : Second Quarter Edition

Safe Trick or Treat Members of seven clubs from the Tamaqua Senior High School held a Safe Trick Or Treat event last night (Thursday, October 30, 2014) in the school gymnasium.

For the second year, the World Language Club organized the community event.

Clubs participating were Drama Club – performing “Demons On The Dance Floor”, National Honor Society – who provided coloring crafts for the kids, Tamaqua Area Student Government – who helped the kids make balloon pumpkins and

spider cups, Environmental Club – who helped kids decorate and give away over 250 pumpkins, World Language Club – who offered face painting and coloring crafts, Tamaqua Blue and White Magazine – who provided a number of colorful drawing projects, and the Biology Club – who helped kids make Halloween “gak”.

World Language Club advisor Mrs. Hascin said the turnout of kids and families was amazing, adding her praise to all the students for their initiative and work during the event.

Tamaqua Blue and White Magazine: Issue II, Volume IV : Second Quarter Edition

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Formal The formal this year was run by the student government, who has been planning the event for months. From signups, to decorating on Black Friday, student government members sacrificed their blood, sweat, and tears to make this year’s formal a great experience for all. President Kyle Weaver said, “I’m really glad to see all the hard-work and dedication put in by all of the Student Government members. I’m so thankful for all of their help and dedication to our organzation and to this event, which effects a significant amount of our student body.”

Even though it was on campus, that did not stop everyone from having fun! The gym didn’t even look that much like a gym; from the up lighting to the Christmas trees, the decorations changed a simple gym into a great spacey area for the formal.

The Christmas trees, in fact, were a part of a ‘paying-it-forward’ idea, spearheaded by the officers.Graver’s tree farm donated the Christmas trees to student government to decorate and use at the formal, and then student government paid-it-forward by donating the trees to the Salvation Army downtown. These trees were then donated to families in the community who could not afford a tree this year.

The music and food were a big talking point of the night.

Who doesn’t love food? When walking in, everyone was taken back by the lighting and candles on the table, and the glitter, of course. DJ Uranko kept everyone busy through out the night, from current popular songs, to songs from when our parents were our age. The food was great and filling, along with the appetizers and desserts. By the end of the night, everyone left with smiles on their faces and a million memories that will live on forever through the million and one selfies!

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Tamaqua Blue and White Magazine: Issue II, Volume IV : Second Quarter Edition

Tamaqua Blue and White Magazine: Issue II, Volume IV : Second Quarter Edition

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Powder Puff

Powder Puff was a big hit again this year. Starting with the freshman vs. juniors, the bar was set for how intense the games were going to be. The freshman team started off with an immediate touchdown, giving the juniors a great surprise. However, in the second half, the juniors came back and scored 2 touchdowns, with the game changing one in the last few seconds of the game. The juniors would advance to the final round. The sophomores vs. seniors was not so close of a game. The seniors dominated through the whole game, with the score not even being close. The seniors would face the juniors in the final game. Everyone was freezing and the hot chocolate was so unbearably hot, but we pushed through it, knowing the show had to go on.

Finally, it was time for the showdown. The juniors 12

were ahead almost the entire game, until the seniors snuck in a touchdown in the final minutes. Overtime!

The crowd was on edge the entire time. Near the end of the overtime, the seniors took control and handed the juniors a tough loss as Brianna Wittig ran an epic touchdown down the field. Congrats, seniors! Look out sophomore or freshmen class, I’m sure the juniors will be nursing their wounds until next year, and they will be determined to get that W. And after all, seniors rule!

Overall, Powderpuff was a great success, as always, and the proceeds went towards Toys for Tots – nearly $700 was donated! Thank you to all who came out to support such a great cause, and kudos to Biology club and it’s members for all the hard work, planning, and time they spent making the event come to life!

Tamaqua Blue and White Magazine: Issue II, Volume IV : Second Quarter Edition

Meet the Teams:

FRESHMAN Freshman players were Maizy Troxell (#00), Brooke Zellner (#2), Olivia Stanek (#3), Angela Ceci (#4), Sarah Massar (#6), Shanna Brinkworth (#11), Haley MacAlush (#12), Maddy Matsago (#13), Courtney Hoffman (#14), Kristin Jones (#15), Megan Ruch (#16), Gabrielle Markiewicz (#17), Carly Kosciolek (#19), Megan Toth (#20), Sophia Susarchick (#21), Madison Wickersham (#21), Kaitlyn Stoffenberg (#24), Mady Coccio (#34), Taylar Donnan (#35), McKayla Wall (#37) and Flo Rios (#38).

Coaches were Mitchell Kurek, John Burns, and Thad Zuber.

JUNIORS

SOPHOMORES Sophomore players were Paige Triano (#00), Emma Pester (#1), Alexis Higgins (#3), Mackenzie McVicker (#3), Lauren Baddick (#4), Emma Rago (#5), Melissa Boerner (#7), Allison Miller (#8), Alissa Hollenbach (#9), Cailyn Joseph (#10), Andrea Iacaviello (#12), Page Eltringham (#13), Chelsea Farber (#18), Olivia Matula (#20), Jannelle Perla (#21), Kayla Holland (#28), Jenny Beck (#33), Kelsey Ziegler (#36) and Zoe Snyder (#44).

Coaches were Josh Derrick, Ed Titus, and Cody Boyer

SENIORS

Junior players were Julianna Wagner (#0), Sage Frey (#1), Senior players were Bailey Hartung (#4), Daiseymae ValAbby Machay (#2), Alexis Frantz (#3), Stephanie Heffelfinentine (#6), Sara Maldonado (#9), Brooke DeHart (#11), ger (#3.14), Lynn Kistler (#4), Hayley Covine (#6), Morgan Shayna Dietrich (#11), Rachel Keich (#12), Brianna Wittig Boyle (#7), Alyssa Delborello (#11), Merranda Zehner (#12), (#13), Olivia Morrison (#14), Jamie Mateyak (#16), Sarah Brianna Bonetsky (#13), Brieanna Purcell (#14), Alexis Bad- Richmond (#18), Vanessa Solt (#23), Kayla Wickersham dick (#15), Ashley Ziegler (#16), Hannah Perla (#17), Emily (#26), Hannah Zoba (#29), Carly Sassaman (#31) and Kelsey Wenzel (#18), Allison Amodea (#20), Emma Osenbach (#21), Massar (#69).

Julia Shellhammer (#22), Kaelyn Boran (#24), Taylor Fritz (#26), Juliette Reinhardt (#32), Amber Linkhorst (#34) and Nicole Prantow (#69).

Coaches were Dylan Rynkiewicz, Brandon Cunningham, Coaches were Dylan Dannenfelser, Zachery Merenda and Tyler Resch and Nate Bastanzi.

Trevor Schilling.

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Comics by Lilith Hicks and Olivia Eckert 14

Tamaqua Blue and White Magazine: Issue II, Volume IV : Second Quarter Edition

When coming upon the New Year, many people create goals for themselves to reach during the next 365 days.

Some common resolutions include losing weight, getting better at what you do, and spend more time with family. Although some people do reach these goals, most don’t.

So, why don’t people end up keeping their resolutions?

For a better understanding, we turn to the Huffington post and a survey done by the Unversity of Scranton Professor, Norcross. He found that over three-quarters of the testers kept their pledges … for the first week.

Those rates steadily went down; two years later, only 19 percent kept the resolution. Also of note: Gender and age bore no significance on the success rates. Mostly, those who failed to follow through on their resolution fell into self-blame and wishful thinking (i.e. wanting the resolution to just “go away”).

group experienced at least one slip, with each member committing 14 total slips on average over that two-year span. For help, these goals might be within better reach for you: • •

• • • • • • •

Take the stairs instead of the elevator, escalator Schedule some time in your day for yourself, without your phone Encourage Positivity Be more active in the community Volunteer more Obtain better grades Set goals and achieve them Eat less fast food Cut back on Dunkin’/Starbucks

What can we learn from those who were successful in their New Year’s resolutions? Alongside the obvious self-reported resolution strategies like willpower and stimulus control, the “fading” tactic—gradual reduction of a vice, as opposed to the “cold turkey” method—and counter-conditioning proved to be the most effective ways of keeping one’s New Year’s plans, say, to lose weight.

And it’s not like these successful testers went all Superman on their plans either; 53 percent of the successful

Tamaqua Blue and White Magazine: Issue II, Volume IV : Second Quarter Edition

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Jingle Bell Dance By: Matthew Franklin

The hands were clapping, and the shoes were tapping. You’ve guessed correctly; it was the Tamaqua Area Middle School’s “Sleigh Bell Hop!” On Friday, December 5th, students from grades 6-8 showed a new side of themselves in their formal threads. The ties, dresses, and freshly done hair all committed to a sophisticated bash. Students danced the night away to classics like “Jingle Bell Rock.” Disney’s “Frozen” themed decor and Christmas cookies all contributed to the holiday feel. Funds from the “Sleigh Bell Hop” were donated to Matt Brickler.

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Tamaqua Blue and White Magazine: Issue II, Volume IV : Second Quarter Edition

Defining Character By: Mya Heffner, 5th Grade West Penn Elementary

There are a lot of people who earned the Character Trait of the Month. A student is chosen from each grade who has shown the characteristics for each month. Students are nominated by their teachers and selected by Mr. Fasnacht, Tamaqua Elementary Schools Assistant Principal. After being chosen for this award, students receive an ice cream treat with Mr. Fasnacht.

September starts the nominations in the area of Respect. Following are October with Attitude and November with Independence. To be nominated for these awards, you must show respect to eachother,

teachers, and other adults, work independently, and to have a positive attitude. These children are busy.

Lots of these children were caught showing all of these character traits.

The children in fourth grade , John G., Katie M., Grace K., and Rylie L. were all caught in Mrs. Davis’ and Mrs. Evans’ rooms for all character traits. Robert K., and Jacob H. were also caught in the act of being a good character in second grade. Also chosen are Chris H. (5), Deanna K. (5), Luke B. (3), and Ana A. (1) for putting forth great character and making our school a great place to be.

Good Job!

Tamaqua Blue and White Magazine: Issue II, Volume IV : Second Quarter Edition

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West Penn Students of the Month

At West Penn Elementary, a Student of the Month is chosen each month of the school year. The Student of the Month is a student chosen by the teachers that show great character and effort in all they do.

They are students who go above and beyond to try their very best, help their fellow classmates, and who show respect towards others. When a student is chosen, they get to join in an ice cream treat with Mr. Fasnacht, the assistant principal, and they are presented in front of the Tamaqua Area School District School Board.

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The honorees for September, October, and November are: Kimberly R. (2), Kyra D. (4), Chase B. (1), Joel M. (K), Katie M. (4), Robert K. (2), Jocelyn L. (3), and Christopher H. (5). Congratulations to all students for their outstanding effort and character!

Written by: Mariah Lehr and Kaitlynn Yorgey, 5th Grade West Penn Elementary

Tamaqua Blue and White Magazine: Issue II, Volume IV : Second Quarter Edition

ELF ON THE SHELF

By: Makayla Kester, Gauge Hartney, and Victoria Pratt, 5th Grade, West Penn Elementary Believe it or not, some people DON’T believe in Santa, Mrs. Claus, the elves, or his 9 reindeer. If the elves were not a part of the Christmas season, then a lot of things would not b ale to get done. At this time of year, the workshop is hectic because of all the toys being made. Santa’s big red bag is filled up to the top with the different types of toys that the elves made. As you can tell, the elves are a pretty important part of Christmas.

If you believe in Santa, more things get done and more elves will visit each school every year.

At West Penn Elementary, the first grade class has an elf. The elves move from place to place each day in the classroom or just at your house. However, at this school, first grade is totally different. These two classes have the silliest, funniest, coolest elves ever. Mrs. Monk has an adorable elf, and her name is Winter. Even though they just got Winter on Friday, December 5th, the class has had so much fun with her already! Mrs. Monk states, “The silliest thing Winter has ever tried to be was a tree topper.” I can’t blame her. Mrs. Schlecht has a cook, awesome elf, named Max that REALLY likes to climb on things. That is a pretty funny place.

Mrs. Schlecht, states, “The silliest place that Max has

ever hidden is hanging from the projector.” That class must have searched for a long time.

I, Makayla K., also have an elf, and her name is Lulu Eve. She has a best friend named Emma (Emma is a Barbie Doll.). She is a great elf because she watches my family and me to make sure that we behave. She is very funny, well behaved….sometimes…., and unique in every way. You know that is what makes her special.

These, however, are not the only Elves on a Shelf in our school.

In third grade, the elves are crazy! Miss Neverosky’s elf, Jingles, picked the spot of the projector to hide, as well. Jingles also likes to hide in the tree. Mrs. Feher’s elf, Cookie, was hanging on the bulletin board, but her silliest spot was on the bookshelf.

In fourth grade, the elves get even crazier. Mrs. Evans’ elf is named Steward. Mrs. Davis’ elf is named Lydia. Steward and Lydia hide in places like the tree and projector, as well. They are super silly elves.

We hope that an elf is watching over you! Be good so that Santa will bring you wonderful things for Christmas! Happy Holidays!

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Honoring Vetrans By: Deanna Kowalski and Nick Behr, 5th Grade West Penn Elementary In early November, West Penn Elementary held a program for Veteran’s Day. We celebrated the veterans and thanked them for their service by having a program for them. Every year, the students of West Penn honor the veterans in this way. After the program, the veterans are treated to baked goods and beverages supplied by our PTO. It is a great day to honor those who serve our country and ensure our freedom.

During the program, the students sang songs, recited poems, and performed skits to entertain the veterans.

The fifth graders sang “God Bless the USA� and recited the preamble to the constitution. Fourth grade sang Boogie, Woogie Bugle Boy after third grade sang Over There. The younger students in Kindergarten, First Grade, and Second Grade also sang songs to thank the veterans.

The enrichments students did the place setting of the lost soldier. This was represented by a small table with a white tablecloth. Each of the students presented a different part of setting the table, the plate, glass, etc. until the table was complete.

Through songs, dances, skits, and more, the students of West Penn Elementary showed their respect and appreciation to the veterans of our area. A small thank you for the great price the veterans have paid for our future, freedom, and lives that we now know.

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Tamaqua Blue and White Magazine: Issue II, Volume IV : Second Quarter Edition

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Tamaqua Blue and White Magazine: Issue II, Volume IV : Second Quarter Edition

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