Issue 2, Volume 3
To: T he St uden TASD ts of From : The Nort h Pol e
Tamaqua Blue and White Magazine | Issue 2, Volume 3 | Quarter 2 Edition
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Table of Conten ts Page 3: Tasty Treats Page 4 / 5: Staying Healthy Page 6 / 7: Holidays Around the World Page 8: Honor Cards Page 9: Playing into the New Year Page 10 / 11: Fashion into the Dress Code Page 12: New Trend: Watches Page 13: The Story of Adam Taliaferro Page 14 / `15: Middle School Talent Show Page 16: Egg Drop Page 17: Honoring Veterans Page 18: 50 States Pageant Page 19: Character Counts Page 20: Working Together Page 21: Fifth Grade Trip to Locust Lake Page 22 / 23: Handwriting Contest Winners
Middle School Survey Results: Gift card/money: 136 Clothing: 79 Music/CD: 60 Candy: 18 Books: 29 Electronics: 174 Pets: 47 Recreational Vehicle: 24 Toys: 22
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Tamaqua Blue and White Magazine | Issue 2, Volume 3 | Quarter 2 Edition
Other: 58 In electronics, the choices that topped the list were iPhones, tablets, and laptops. Also included were iPods, Kindles, and video gaming systems (Xbox and PS3 or 4). Other items included loom bands, roller skates, and even Justin Timberlake concert tickets.
hristmas liday Christmas. C ho r te in w e th ith w ot only this, We all share a love y, and gift giving. N jo s, ile sm y an m , e brings with it th ast, on dessert. Tree fe to e tim a as as istm ry combut we all know Chr ed cookies are a ve ap sh ke fla ow sn d istsnowman, stars, an r cookies are a Chr ga Su . ay lid ho r te e win their mon sight during th making cookies with in y jo ke ta le op pe y s. Along with using mas tradition! Man nd ie fr r ei th ith w aring them r family and then sh ie dough, those suga ok co us io lic de e th ape e of the cookie cutters to sh okies are indeed on co r ga Su ! ie ok co e sprinkles top off th king. rts of Christmas ba most important pa
Tasty Treats by Alli Pederson
Sugar Cookie Recipe (makes 5 dozen) You’ll need: 1.5 cups butter, softened 2 cups white sugar 4 eggs 1 tsp. vanilla extract 5 cups all-purpose flour 2 teaspoons baking powder 1 tsp. salt 1. Cream butter and sugar until smooth. Beat in eggs & vanilla. Stir in flour, baking powder, and salt. Cover & chill dough for one hour. 2. Preheat oven to 400 degrees ‘F. Roll out dough on floured surface 1/4 inch thick. Cut into shapes and place on pan 1 inch apart. Bake 6 to 8 minutes. Cool completely.
Another baking delight du ring Christmas time is the log cake. This treat is much like that of a pumpkin roll. Bakers us e a chocolate cake mixture as the ou tside. Then the inside is the fun part! The choice is yours! Using filling that is vanilla, pepp erm int, peanut butter, or even choc olate is common. This delic iou s treat is then rolled up and ready to serve!
Ribbon candy is one of the oldest Christmas candies. It is simply a peppermint candy, shaped like a ribbon. Squiggling back and forth this candy had many holiday colors! It is just the perfect crunch of sweet and peppermint for after your Christmas dinner or with your hot chocolate while you stay warm by the fire!
Candy Canes are also a sweet peppermint delight. These sweet treats can be used to decorate your Christmas tree or eaten when you’ve got that sweet tooth.
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The holiday season is full of gatherings often revolving around food– lots and lots of food. Some health reports say a traditional Christmas dinner can contain more than 2,000 calories! With grandma’s pumpkin roll and mom’s cheesy party potatoes, how can anyone stay healthy? In order to find solutions to this yearly dilemma, I sat down with Revolution Fitness Studio co-owner, Caitlin Miller who is certified in sports nutrition.
Staying Healthy
Q: It seems like there are hardly any healthy food options this time of year. Should foodsMILLER, just be avoided all together? WITHholiday CAITLIN CERTIFIED SPORTS NUTRITIONIST A: No, that is not a sustainable plan and will result in an unhealthy relationship with food over time. The focus needs to be on what should be eaten and taken away from the “forbidden” food. Q: Ok so what are some healthier options to look for in a traditional spread? A: Some of the best foods are turkey, sweet potatoes, cranberries, pumpkin, green beans, pecans, and cinnamon. Q: What makes these foods nutritional? A: Turkey is a high quality source of lean protein and is naturally low-fat without the skin. It also provides iron, zinc, phosphorus, potassium, and B vitamins. Skimp on the gravy, though. Sweet potatoes are full of with vitamins, minerals, and fiber. Try these root veggies in their healthiest forms of roasted or mashed with fresh herbs. Cranberries contain a moderate dose of Vitamin C, dietary fiber, manganese, and antioxidants. Avoid the jellied form and try simmering fresh cranberries with oranges for the most benefits. Pumpkin is a known as a super food because of its The holiday season is nutritional full of gatherings revolvprofile often including antioxidants and fiber while being naturally low in caloing around food– lots and lots of food. Some health Q: What makes these nutritional? ries. Try it as crustless custard and keep the portion size foods reasonable because of added reports say a traditional Christmas dinner can contain A: Turkey is a high quality source of lean protein and is sugar. Green beans are high in fiber and low in calories. Forget the casserole version more than 2,000 calories! With grandma’s pumplow-fat without the skin.almonds It also provides iron, zinc, and try them steamedhow andcan sautéed innaturally olive oil, garlic, and sliced as a healthy kin roll and mom’s cheesy party potatoes, phosphorus, potassium, and B vitamins. Skimp on the gravy, Pecans are the anyone stay healthy? holiday In orderside. to find solutions tomost this nutritious nut packed with healthy fats and vitamin though. of appetizer while E. Instead the calorically-laden pie form,Sweet reach potatoes for these are as afull light yearly dilemma, I sat down withof Revolution Fitness vitamins, minerals, and fiber. Try these root veggies in their waiting forwho the main course. Studio co-owner, Caitlin Miller, is certified in And cinnamon is an antioxidant-rich spice that is found healthiest of roasted or mashed with fresh sports nutrition. in many holiday foods and beverages. It has aforms myriad of nutritional benefits andherbs. Cranberries boosts flavor reducing the need for more sugar.contain a moderate dose of Vitamin C, dietary fiber, manganese, and antioxidants. Avoid the jellied form Q: It seems like there are hardly any healthy food options andfoods try simmering this time of year. ShouldQ: holiday foods can just be So people eat avoided as muchall of these as they fresh want?cranberries with oranges for the most benefits. Pumpkin is known as ahealthy super food because of together? A: Portion sizes should always be reasonable when considering consumpits nutritional profile including antioxidants and A: No, that is not a sustainable plan from and will result gain, in an eating too much food in a given setting results infiber tion. Apart weight feel-while being unhealthy relationship with time. The focus needs ingfood sick over and often times guilty on top of it.naturally low in calories. Try it as crustless custard andare keep the to portion size reasonable because of added to be on what should be andyou taken away fromonthe Q:eaten Should skip meals days you going party? sugar. Green beans are highincreases in fiber and low in and calories. “forbidden” food. A: No. Do not skip meals because it slows down metabolism, hunger, Forget the casserole version and try them steamed and sautéed in olive oil, garlic, and sliced almonds as a healthy Q: What are some healthier options to look for in a tradiholiday side. Pecans are the most nutritious nut packed tional spread? with healthy fats and vitamin E. Instead of the caloricallyA: Some of the best foods are turkey, sweet potatoes, cranberries, pumpkin, green beans, pecans, and cinnamon. laden pie form, reach for these as a light appetizer while 4
Tamaqua Blue and White Magazine | Issue 2, Volume 3 | Quarter 2 Edition
waiting for the main course. And cinnamon is an antioxidant-rich spice that is found in many holiday foods and beverages. It has a myriad of nutritional benefits and boosts flavor reducing the need for more sugar.
but keep moving. Realize there is more to being healthy than “cancelling” the 500 calorie piece of pecan pie for 60 minutes on an elliptical. Your body doesn’t work that way.
Q: So people can eat as much of these foods as they want? A: Portion sizes should always be reasonable when considering healthy consumption. Apart from weight gain, eating too much food in a given setting results in feeling sick and often times guilty on top of it.
Q: At Rev you support group fitness classes over some other options for exercise. Why? A: Even though it isn’t for everyone, group classes are typically more motivating than working out alone or trying to be effective at the gym. All of our classes are different but center on basic principles of HIIT (high intensity interval training) which is strongly backed in research to be the most effective and efficient to achieve maximum results.
Q: Should you skip meals on days you are going to party? A: No. Do not skip meals because it slows down metabolism, increases hunger, and results in overeating at the party. Make good choices throughout the day and eat a light snack with protein and complex carbs before you go. Try an apple with peanut butter or fresh veggies with humus. Q: Besides food, do you have any other tips for staying healthy through the holidays? A: Keep up with your exercise schedule. You might need to adjust times or activities around travel plans
Q: So make smart choices with food and keep exercising. Anything else? A: Enjoy your break! Stress plays a major role in overall health. Try to relieve stress by laughing with friends or going for a walk. Also, try to keep a regular sleep pattern. The main word is “try.” Set yourself up for success with a good plan, but if the plan gets derailed, learn from mistakes and move on. Being healthy is a lifestyle that you cannot make or break in a single day.
Tamaqua Blue and White Magazine | Issue 2, Volume 3 | Quarter 2 Edition
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Christ m Aroun as Tradit io d the Worl ns d By Re becca Kanas kie
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oyeux Noel! Fröhliche Weihnachten! Nollaig Shona Dhuit! Buone Feste Natalizie! Feliz Navidad! And now, in English, Merry Christmas! Even if Christmas is not your favorite holiday, there is no denying that it is a beloved one. Just the name “Christmas” might trigger great memories of opening presents, decorating the tree, baking cookies, or simply being with loved ones. Yes, it is true, the Christmas traditions really are what most of us look forward to in the winter season. However does anyone really know why they celebrate these traditions? This being said, I shall now enlighten you with six new holiday traditions to try out this holiday season. Oh, and try to find out which country your family’s custom originated from!
France
In France, Christmas is called Noel, which originates from a French phrase that means “the good news”. Instead of using stockings hung by a fireplace (with care, of course!), French children leave their shoes by the fireplace to be filled with gifts. The Nativity scene is a must in French homes, as it is in America as well. However, Christmas trees are rarely seen in France. Instead, it is replaced by the Yule Log, which is burned in the hearth of the home. In addition to the actual piece of wood, some Europeans bake cakes in the shape of the Yule Log. Unfortunately, the cake would not be set on fire, but it would be eaten, which makes for a slightly dull substitution.
Germany The traditions celebrated in Germany might seem incredibly similar to most of our traditions. It is no coincidence; so many of the customs we celebrate were brought over by our German ancestors! The Advent calendars—the ones with the little flaps that count down the days until Christmas and hold either a message or a chocolate inside—were first printed in Germany in 1908. Although gingerbread dates back to ancient Egypt, it was in Nuremburg, Germany that bakers were first allowed to sell it to make gingerbread houses. The Nutcracker also originated in Germany as the hero of an 1816 story by E.T.A. Hoffman. And the Christkindl Markets near Lehigh University—yes, you guessed it!—are German-based as well! Oh, and a little hint if you cannot wait to get your presents until Christmas day, December 6th is Saint Nicholas Day, which is an opportunity to get a small present or two—but only if you are good!
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Tamaqua Blue and White Magazine | Issue 2, Volume 3 | Quarter 2 Edition
Ireland
If the Christmas season always seems a little short to you, you can always try to convince your parents to have an Irish Christmas—the season lasts from Christmas Eve to January 6th! In addition to the lengthy season, Ireland is the inventor of the ugly sweater tradition! In fact, it has become a competition in Irish towns to see who can make the most horrible Christmas sweater—even if it means adding fake birds, lights, and bells to win. However, to have a true Irish Christmas, it is necessary to participate in the “Christmas Swim.” Yes, you heard me correctly; swimming in the Irish Sea in below freezing weather is a particularly popular event. But, who would turn down this exciting event?
Italy
The Christmas season in Italy lasts for three weeks, and includes tons of eating and singing! Cakes such as panettone and pandoro are served at the Christmas Eve feast, which is preceded by an entire day of fasting. On Christmas Day, everyone takes their turn at picking from the Urn of Fate, where there is a present for everyone. In Italy there is no Saint Nicholas, but there is a figure called the Befana, who leaves presents for the good children of Italy. Instead of writing letters to Santa Claus, Italian children write letters to their parents telling them how much they love them (which is a twist that would be greatly appreciated by parents over here as well— *cough cough*).
Mexico
In Mexico, you won’t find Christmas trees or Yule Logs, but you will find an abundance of poinsettia flowers, or as they are also called in Mexico, the Noche Buenas (the good nights). These bright red flowers are quite common in America, as well. Mexican bakeries offer the Rosca de Reyes, which is oval-shaped sweet bread decorated with candied fruit. Hidden inside the Rosca is a plastic figurine of the baby Jesus. The baby is hidden to symbolize the need to find a secure place where Jesus could be born. As each person cuts a slice of the Rosca, the knife symbolizes the danger that Jesus was in. Whoever gets the slice that the figurine was in shall invite everyone who cut a piece of the Rosca to a new celebration on February 2nd (Candelaria) and will buy a new dress for the baby Jesus of the Nativity Scene. The Christmas season is particularly long, and begins and ends with much celebration—and the distributing of tamales and hot chocolate. And, as it seems to be quite the custom for Mexicans, there will be plenty of piñatas for everyone to hit. And to conclude this plethora of holiday cheer, I shall leave you with some Christmas clichés and superstitions: On Christmas Eve all animals can speak. However, it is bad luck to test this superstition. If you eat a raw egg before eating anything else on Christmas morning, you will be able to carry heavy weights. Snow on Christmas means Easter will be green. You will have as many happy months in the coming year, as the number of houses you eat pies in during Christmastime. And, in the words of Sir Paul McCartney, we’re simply having a wonderful Christmastime!
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Honor Cards by Jamie Mateyayk Being an upperclassman has many perks. The biggest perk, though, is earning an honor card. To receive your honor card, you need to be a junior or a senior, have the proper grade point average, and you need two teachers and a club advisor to sign your previous report card. Then, you basically have your honor card. I never thought that this little piece of paper with my name on it would make me so happy! That little slip of paper gives you the freedom of leaving the school for the periods you have off. There are many places to go and many items to buy. Some places include Dunkin Donuts, McDonalds, Burger King, the Broad Street Deli (BSD for short), Dimaggios, and even to your house. Dunkin Donuts is by far my favorite place to go. Is it sad to say that I go there frequently enough that they have my order memorized? They await the usual crowd 4th period. Sam Postupack advises you to work hard for your honor card: “Basically, do anything you can to get your honor card. I love having it because it’s awesome to know that you can just leave school for a little bit. If you’re having a stressful day, you can leave and get yourself a coffee to keep you going. Hahaha freshman and sophomore year were dark times.” I couldn’t agree more with Sam. Gabby Freed also says, “Honor card is the best thing ever! I love the 4th period dunkin runs!” For lunches, the favorite place to go 6th period is Dimaggios or BSD. Ben Miller says, “Dmag is the best! Gizmos are the best things on the planet!” The only thing you have to worry about is being back on time for your next class. However, the best feeling is when you have 9th period off because you can go home and not come back until the next day. Oh and P.S. If you go to Dunkin, keep your receipt and fill out the online survey to get a free donut with your next purchase of a medium or large drink!
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Tamaqua Blue and White Magazine | Issue 2, Volume 3 | Quarter 2 Edition
Playing into the New Year! by: Hannah Betz
Quads are packed away, uniforms are returned, and drill sheets are turned in. Yes, the marching season is over- no more football games or adjudications for the Raider Band. We’re still as busy as ever, though. After the marching season ends, we turn our attention to the Christmas concert. It may feel like we have a lot of time to get everything perfected at the start, but that’s anything but the truth. From the very first practice, we’re intense. We have to put forth our best effort every minute. I decided to talk to some band members to get their points of view on the changing seasons, challenges they’ve faced, and more. First up: which season do they prefer; marching or concert? George Hegedus, a saxophone player, enjoys the marching season. “I love the football games!” Stephen Oravec, one of our percussionists, agrees. “You always have the Friday night game to look forward to. Also, marching season is more social than concert season.” Not everybody has such an affinity for the marching season, though. Jenny Beck, who plays tenor sax in the marching band and oboe for concerts, prefers the concert season, saying “I feel like it’s a more relaxed season; there’s no stress from the beginning of the school year.” Okay, so we can’t reach a unanimous decision on which season we like best. But which concert is the most well-liked, Christmas or spring? According to Sarah Miller, who plays both alto sax and clarinet, the Christmas concert definitely trumps spring. Jenny disagrees. She says the spring concert has a greater variety of music.
e the what we plan to
Finally, what’s the hardest part of the concert season? Stephen says, “Probably performing the concert itself, since you know you only have one chance to perform in front of a crowd, and if you make an error, you can’t come back next week and hope to fix it, like during the marching season.” Jenny says it’s “learning more challenging pieces and trying your hardest to make yourself a better player.” Well, There you have it. We’re very divided on some things, but the message seems to be same: work hard and do your best. That’s just do this season.
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Fashion Tips
by: Damian Munoz, Alli Pederson, Jazmin Mena
The dress code allows for somewhat limited men’s sartorial choices: khaki or navy pants, a white or navy polo shirt, a “white dress shirt”, navy, tan, or white full torso sweater “in cold weather”, and solid brown, black, tan, navy blue, or burgundy shoes with matching laces (shoes also “may not light up or have wheels”). However, if executed correctly, one can successfully use the elements provided to create an outfit with style. Men’s style is much more subtle than women’s; this is due to the fact that only a few traditional menswear garments exist (shirts, sweaters, jackets, pants, and shoes). Even with these seemingly limited options, men can use several small details to stand out from the crowd. Whether it is a watch, tie, tie clip, or belt, these often understated fine points, in my mind, pull together an individual’s image. After all, style is a manifestation of our personalities, so why not be bold and take a risk? At Tamaqua Area High School, it has become a tradition to put your best fashion foot forward on “Fancy Friday” or “Tie-Day Friday”. Gentlemen, this is a call to action; don a “white dress shirt” and a tie every Friday and show the school your true style.
Kendra Boyle Q: What do you categorize your style as? A: Simple and bubbly. Q: Do you think it’s important to mix your own fashion statements in with the school uniform? A: Of course it is Q:What’s your must have accessory that you wear to school? A: Bows Q:Do you have any tips for peers of how to express your style with the uniform? A: Love your clothes
Rebecca Kanaskie Q:What do you categorize your style as? A: Hipster Q: Do you think it’s important to mix your own fashion statements in with the school uniform? A: Of course, it’s important to express your originality while being school appropriate. Q: What’s your must have accessory that you wear to school? A: Glasses Q: Do you have any tips for peers of how to express your style with the uniform? A: Just take your style that you have out of school and dress that way in school too.
Merranda Zehner
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Q: What do you categorize your style as? A: vintage Q: Do you think it’s important to mix your own fashion statements in with the school uniform? A: ya, of course Q: What’s your must have accessory that you wear to school? A: shoes Q: Do you have any tips for peers of how to express your style with the uniform? A: Wear scarves
Tamaqua Blue and White Magazine | Issue 2, Volume 3 | Quarter 2 Edition
Jazmin Mena
Q: What do you categorize your style as? A: Fancy and classy. Q: Do you think it’s important to mix your own fashion statements in with the school uniform? A: Yes, because it’s important to express your individuality through what you wear. Q: What’s your must have accessory that you wear to school? A: Sweaters and headbands Q: Do you have any tips for peers of how to express your style with the uniform? A: Be yourself in what you wear.
Olivia Morrison
Q: What do you categorize your style as? A: Boho grandma… I guess. Q: Do you think it’s important to mix your own fashion statements in with the school uniform? A: Definitely, although we are limited it’s always important to express yourself. Q: What’s your must have accessory that you wear to school? A: The famous heart patch sweater. If I don’t wear it for a day everyone wants to know why. I wash it people! Q: Do you have any tips for peers of how to express your style with the uniform? A: Do your own thing. If you feel like you want to wear something but are too afraid that it’s not “stylish”just wear it.
These five girls have excellent points and advice when it comes to incorporating your own personal style in with the school uniform. As Kendra pointed out, bows are an awesome way to look bubbly and cute while still in your uniform. Also, Merranda pointed out that shoes are an awesome accessory to wear with your uniform. They make so many different styles, that it would be easy to get some within school dress code that spell out your style. Jazmin also pointed out that a simple sweater could brighten and make your school uniform into a whole different thing, even if you have hearts on the elbows! Wearing glasses, as Rebecca pointed out may add a scholastic look or in her case add to the boho look she has going on! It’s never bad to incorporate some vintage fashion into todays clothing, even in the uniform. Items such as pearl earrings or necklaces add a classic and vintage vibe to the uniform. Also, boatneck sweaters make your collarbones more defined because of the higher straight neckline. There’s many ways to make the school uniform your own. Our advice though is to find your own personal style, and own it!
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New Trend: Watches!
by: Damian Munoz,
Whether a pragmatic time-keeper or an ostentatious showpiece; the wristwatch, despite being created a little over a century ago, has surely withstood the test of time. Watches fascinate me; their rich history, their purposes, their various functions and features, and their design. I take (wear, I suppose) my timepiece wherever I go. In a way, it is like a companion; every experience, every hardship, every triumph is shared with my watch. It is almost as if my 47mm Big Pilot has become a part of me. Granted this sounds farcical, but without it, something is just not right. Maybe it is an esoteric detail such as the weight of the watch. Maybe without it I am literally lost in time; without a concrete notion of passing time how can one even know that time exists? My watch keeps me on time, reminds me of the past, and prepares me for the future. Is there any other inanimate object that can match all of these prerequisites and still retain a form of beauty, elegance, precision, and practicality? One thing is for sure, it may be a paradox, but, to me, the watch truly is a timeless entity.
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Tamaqua Blue and White Magazine | Issue 2, Volume 3 | Quarter 2 Edition
The Story of Adam Taliaferro
Skylar Clouser - 8th Grade Student
Middle School
a Taliaferro visited the Tamaqu On December 19, 2013, Adam aker. spe al ited to hear a motivation Area Middle School. I was exc story about how he was paraAdam began to speak about his He overcame his paralysis by lyzed during a football game. .I in. Adam’s story was inspiring never giving up on walking aga in . I think one of the best points was never so touched in my life inding hting. He constantly kept rem Adam’s story was to keep fig Adam continued to preach his us that it is okay not to be okay. re and more inspired. Many stu mo be to d ue tin con I d an ry, sto too. d so interested in his message, dents in the auditorium seeme am s in their lives, and I think Ad on ati situ on ell dw s kid ny So ma did ercome many obstacles. Adam really showed them how to ov m. I on so many children in that roo not realize the impact he had tter ma rson’s life could change in a never knew how much one pe de lly opened up my eyes and ma of one football game. Adam rea am through difficult times, and I me think that I actually can get e om bec am inspired me to want to actually going to make it. Ad statewas very interested with my a motivational speaker. Adam he at that I wanted a career in wh ment. I told Adam personally impressed that someone my age does for a living now. He was ng ddle school students are deali would want to do so. Many mi am Ad e lik s and having a speaker with so many of life’s obstacle a few In a way, he might have saved come in changed everything. in on am Taliaferro is an inspirati lives this day. I truly believe Ad s a great thing, and when he wa so many ways. Adam is doing t tears of joy running down my telling his story, I felt tears. I fel I can the race. He made me realize cheeks like a race car finishing are am made me realize that there get through life’s struggles. Ad my up ations than me. He opened so many people in worse situ s about the children in hospital selfish eyes and made me think . It battling other kids bullying me am I en wh e liv to ng hti fig t jus s e, and I can gladly say that I wa is a hard situation to overcom bly. forever changed at this assem
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TMS Has Talent! Middle School
On Wednesday, November 27, 2013, the Tamaqua Area Middle School held its annual talent show, and talented it was. Students shared their skill in singing, dancing, playing piano, and much more. Katelyn Sprenkle opened the show singing “Take a Bow,” with Skylar Clouser performing “Wrecking Ball” next. As always, a highlight of the show was the members of the student council interjecting comedic commercials, the first one representing the State Farm talking baby. Then came Varnieneccia Borchert singing “Young and Beautiful,” followed by Mia Hess singing “Roar” and Maddie Mace and Sierra Petrucci doing an instrumental “Titanium.” Sierra played the piano, with Maddie on flute. Meanwhile, Mr. Waidell gave the performers a short rest while he entertained the audience with his own special form of emcee humor. Next up was the student council with a Sundrop soda commercial, after which Olivia Behr sang “Beautiful.” Haylee Burns changed things up a bit by doing a hula hoop routine
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to “Part of Me,” and she managed to keep that hula hoop going on nearly every part of her: waist, ankle, even arms. “Catch Me” was sung by Olivia Stettler. Then in another commercial, Thad Zuber provided Brad Clemson a shot of “Math Counts” to save his brain. After that, Olivia Lattanzi played “When I Was Your Girl” on the piano. Nearing the halfway point in the show, Barrett entertained the audience by singing “Safe and Sound;” next, “Brave” was performed by Hannah Englemann. Student council then asked, “Why have a French fry? You coulda had a V-8!” After Briana Morrison sang “Face Down, “ Faith Roberts took the audience back a few decades with an energetic interpretation of “Sir Duke.” Again, student council jumped in, featuring Jacob Triano as a happy camel on hump day. A soulful rendition of “Arms of the Angel” was crooned by Brandi DeAngelo, with Megan Robertshaw presenting a ballet solo to the
Tamaqua Blue and White Magazine | Issue 2, Volume 3 | Quarter 2 Edition
music of “Hill Street Blues” after that. Next, Kadie Paules encouraged the audience to “Put Your Records On.” Jeff Letterhouse and Lauren Wandzilak showed us just how many packs of gum and turkey sandwiches fit in the glove compartment of a Dodge Durango in another student council commercial. Jacob Rudy subsequently wowed the students with backto-back piano solos of “A Whole New World” and “Phantom of the Opera.” Then Olivia Behr took over the piano to play ”Music of the Night.” After Amelia Cassell sang “Someone Like You,” student council did another commercial, followed by “The Cup Song” by Rachel Miller. Ten cheerleaders pumped up the audience with an exuberant cheer mix; afterwards, Holly Wagner mellowed the crowd with “Love Story.” Student council completed the second part of their earlier commercial, then went into their finale of “What Does the Fox Say?” with Briana Morrison as the
fox. The Middle School talent would not be complete without PSSA awards, which were presented by Mr. Czapla, Mrs. Frantz, and Mrs. Schellhammer. Maddie Coccio and her crew ended the show with an AR Challenge: “Baby Got Books.” The show would not have been possible without the help of Mr. Beltz, for technical assistance; Mr. Luna, our videographer; Deina Cords and Merissa Smith for backstage help and programs, and the dedication of the Talent Show Committee: Mrs. DiSante, Mrs. Frantz, Mrs. Gudleski, Mrs. Hludzik, Mrs. Joseph, Mrs. Mansell, Mrs. Morrison, Mrs. Schellhammer, Ms. Weston, and Ms. Woodward.
Tamaqua Blue and White Magazine | Issue 2, Volume 3 | Quarter 2 Edition
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Fifth Grade Egg Drop By: Angel Shiner, Letisha Snyder, & Forrest Zellner
Elementary
The West Penn Elementary Annual 5th Grade Egg Drop has been held for 6 years. This year we had a record breaking number of winners. The egg drop is a way to encourage students to work together with other students that they would not usually hang out with, as well as, to support the science module of Variables. There were so many winners, Mrs. Bittner ran out of golden eggs, certificates, and free snack cards. As usual, the apparatuses were outstanding! Most of the apparatuses had parachutes this year. There were many very unique apparatuses. One was just a box at first, and then the partners improved it with a parachute. Surprisingly, their egg made it! This was one of the harder egg drops. It was so windy some of the eggs blew right out of the apparatuses. Some egg drop apparatuses even went around the corner of the building. This year it was twice as windy as last year. What could have been a catastrophe turned out to be so much fun! We would like to congratulate the winners of the 6th Annual Fifth Grade Egg Drop! Congratulations to: Dallas S., Ethan A., Emily F., Anthony R., Tyler S., Logan K., Zachary C., Kayla N., Emily L., Anya S., Travis Z., Bria G., Kiara M., Desaray F., Harry S., Alexis B., Dax W., Letisha S., Jordyn C., Johanna W., Mia A., Makenna M., Bryn M., Nathaniel Z., Forrest Z., Nathan H., Jimmy A., Erica I., and Clowie M.. Congratulations to all fifth graders for a job well done. Remember‌ it’s not about winning but learning and having fun!
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Tamaqua Blue and White Magazine | Issue 2, Volume 3 | Quarter 2 Edition
Elementary
Honoring Veterans By: Zachary Groner, Gretchen Epler, Logan Kromer, and Nathaniel Zeigler, 5th Grade Students West Penn Elementary honored veterans at a Veterans’ Day Program on Thursday, November 7, 2013. Every year, the students have this program to honor local veterans because they fight for our freedom. The students of West Penn Elementary said Thank You in many ways. One way the students said Thank you was by doing different activities for the program. The classes did patriotic songs like “America the Beautiful” and “Me & You”. The 5th grade class recited the Preamble to the Constitution of the United States. All of this was done to show our appreciation for what these people have done. Throughout the program, some veterans were honored through a slideshow of memories and a video. The pictures and memories of these heroic people were put into a very emotional video for all to view. This was just one more way we can show our gratitude for their service. The students of West Penn Elementary have been doing a Veterans’ Day Program for a couple of years now. It is one small way we can say Thank You to those who have served our country for our freedom. We, the student s of West Penn Elementary, love doing this program, and we are happy to be able to do something to show our gratitude.
Tamaqua Blue and White Magazine | Issue 2, Volume 3 | Quarter 2 Edition
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Fifty States Pageant Elementary 18
Hi this is Rylie and Eileen Lusch. We are doing a 50 States Pageant in 3rd grade. We are going to tell you some interesting things we are doing. We are making sashes for the girls and hats for the boys. Each student is assigned a state for the pageant. We decorated the hats and sashes with things about our states. We had to learn a song about the 50 states. On YouTube, there is a song called the 50 States That Rhyme. We studied it. The pageant was held at 2:00 on Monday, December 16th in the library at West Penn Elementary School. Both 3rd grade classes preformed in it. We really enjoyed our 50 States Pageant.
Tamaqua Blue and White Magazine | Issue 2, Volume 3 | Quarter 2 Edition
Elementary
Character Counts at West Penn Elementary
At West Penn Elementary, students who show good character can be recognized. For the month of October, our school celebrated student independence. In November, students were recognized for having a good attitude! In order to receive this award, the students just need to be themselves. The teachers can catch the students showing these character traits and write up the information for Mr. Fasnacht. Mr. Fasnacht then randomly picks students from the box to be awarded.
The following students have earned the honor for displaying good attitude in school: Anya S., Alyssia S., Katie M., Kelsey Lush, and Lilly M., Trenton S., Brayden D., Jacob B., Ryan L., and Chase Z. Students who show independence in school are: Isabella G., Kimberly R., Aaron B., Mason G., Amber F., Cole E., and Alexus W. Congratulations to all students who were recognized for these great character traits. Each month our school will be choosing a character trait to display. Get excited! Next month you may be chosen for showing great character!a
By: Alexis Bauder, Hailey Toth, Emily Frey, and Jessica Hollenbach
Tamaqua Blue and White Magazine | Issue 2, Volume 3 | Quarter 2 Edition
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Working Together By: Ryan Lusch and Jack Tharp
Elementary
Second grade works very hard together. When we read we help each other if we’re stuck on a word. We even help our friends read. In Unit 2 in reading class, our theme is working together. In our first story, Tara and Tiree, the question was “How can we help each other in a dangerous situation?” Tara and Tiree were two dogs who helped their owner Jim when he fell through the ice on lake. They saved his life. Our classes learned to go find an adult when there is a dangerous situation, stay calm, if you are lost stay where you are, and most important if we can call 9-1-1. In our second story, Abraham Lincoln, the question was “How has working together changed history?” In this story the kids named Noah and Maya ripped the map and Ms. Grant, the teacher, said they could put the map together like Abraham Lincoln put our country back together. So she told the story about him. The North and South were in a war against each other because the South wanted to keep slavery and the North wanted to end it. Abraham Lincoln stopped the Civil War between the North and South. From reading this story, our classes learned that since Abraham Lincoln stopped slavery we don’t have slaves. Technology has changed. There are new laws. There are new buildings. Lots of changes have happened from long ago. In the next story Turtle’s Race with Beaver, the question was “When does sharing make sense?” Turtle and Beaver started a race because they were arguing about who should get the pond. Turtle won! Then Beaver was embarrassed so he had to go to a different pond. We all learned that you can share almost anytime because it is always nice to share. Sometimes you can’t share like on a test. Our last story is the Bremen Town Musicians. The question was “Why is it a good idea to work together?” There are animals that are too old so they are going to the Bremen to sing together. We learnedthat everyone can be good at something when you work together. Our classes in 2nd Grade are always working together.
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Tamaqua Blue and White Magazine | Issue 2, Volume 3 | Quarter 2 Edition
Fifth Grade Trip to Locust Lake On Wednesday, October 2, 2013, the fifth graders at West Penn Elementary went on a field trip to Locust Lake. It was fun! The students learned about mammals and all different kinds of animals. This field trip was extra special because these students were able to spend time with students from Tamaqua Elementary. They were also happy because they got a day out of school. It was amazing! The students were learning about many things. They learned about birds, mammals, reptiles, and a lot more. There was even a snake and a lizard that the students were able to hold. The students were able to touch the furs of bear, coyotes, fox, and more and learn about how birds migrate. It was fun learning about all of those animals. After all of that, the students returned to West Penn Elementary on the bus. On the bus, the students were singing and cheering. It was cool! When we returned to West Penn Elementary, we continued work on our Egg Drop Apparatus.
Tamaqua Blue and White Magazine | Issue 2, Volume 3 | Quarter 2 Edition
Elementary
By: Haley Hamm, Mrs. Bittner’s 5th Grade Class
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Handwriting Contest Winners Elementary by: Madison Reed Mrs. Schlect, WP
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Tamaqua Blue and White Magazine | Issue 2, Volume 3 | Quarter 2 Edition
Elementary by: Autumn Scott Mrs. Monk, WP
Tamaqua Blue and White Magazine | Issue 2, Volume 3 | Quarter 2 Edition
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1100 Center Street Jim Thorpe | 570-669-7010 | lccc.edu/jimthorpe Tamaqua Blue and White Magazine | Issue 2, Volume 3 | Quarter 2 Edition