Tamaqua Blue and White - Issue 2, Volume 2

Tamaqua Blue and White

BLUE RAIDERS GO 10-0!

READ ALL ABOUT THE UNDEFEATED BLUE RAIDERS ON PAGE 18.

Tamaqua Blue and White Magazine - Issue 2 Volume 2

1

table of contents: Page 3 : Wii-U ctronic Revolution le E ’ S H TA : 4 e g a P lumn Page 5 : Advice Co ears Seniors Y is Th r fo s ld o H e Future Page 6 - 7: What th CL ASSMEN R E P P U S V S IE H S E Page 8 - 9: FR ay Friday!

D ie T : 11 0 1 e g a P d Update Page 12 - 13 : Ban s.

Page 14 - 15 : Dog Writing: Suicide ve ti a re C : 7 1 6 1 Page tball Pride! o o F r e id a R : 9 1 Page 18 ctions Page 20 - 21 : Ele mecoming!

Page 22 - 23 : Ho itor Tales Page 24 - 25 : Jan lts Page 26 : Poll Resu iving!

Page 27 : Thanksg

Honoring our Veterans More often than we care to admit, most of us lose perspective as to what’s really important. Sometimes we forget to remember those who shoulder or who have shouldered the real problems so that we can afford to be so petty in our concerns. November 12th of this year, Veterans Day, is one day out of the year set aside to remember those who have served our country and pray for those who are currently defending us. As of 2010, there were 995,135 veterans in Pennsylvania alone.

Please take the time to remember them, to thank them, and always be grateful, not just on Veteran’s day.

2

Tamaqua Blue and White Magazine - Issue 2 Volume 2

“When I lay my head down every night And go to sleep in peace, I can stay there knowing all is well While you’re standing on your feet.

Keeping watch, protecting shore to shore In the air and oceans, too.

Defending freedom at all cost, For the red, white and the blue.

Thank you, Oh thank you Men and women, brave and strong, To those who served so gallantly We sing this grateful song.

To the soldiers who have traveled on to countries far and near.

In peace and war you paid the price For the cause you hold so dear.

That we may wake each morning bright And know that freedom rings Because of your great sacrifice Your country joins to sing…”

Lyrics by Michael and Angela Souders

video games!

by: Dallas Mease

Aside from stuffing your face with turkey and mashed potatoes, what do you want to do this Thanksgiving break? With all those days off from school, your schedule will probably be a little clear. Maybe you’ll be playing some of the big releases that are due to come out this month? It is the beginning of the holiday season, and it is also the beginning of the video game season.

Coming out this month are several exciting releases for the Xbox 360 and the PS3, including Metal Gear Solid Rising, Call of Duty: Black Ops 2, Halo 4, and Grand Theft Auto 5. Since we teenagers are a large chunk of their sales, it’s important they cater to what we want, so what do you think will be the best game? Which, if any, do you plan to buy?

Speaking of buying new releases, one of the most anticipated – if not somewhat odd – releases this month is the first console of the next generation of gaming: the Wii U. This successor to the highly popular Wii from Nintendo has promised a lot to the gaming community, including stronger third party support for games, considered to be one of the Wii’s greatest weaknesses. This is emphasized by the opening line-up of games, which includes Batman: Arkham City Armored Edition, Mass Effect 3, Black Ops 2, and Assassin’s Creed 3.

Nintendo is not one to forget its main franchises, though, as their opening lineup includes games such as New Super Mario Bros. U, a new 2D addition and sequel to the New Super Mario Bros. for the Wii, and Nintendoland, a mini-game based game that is themed around Nintendo’s most well known franchises. Another Wii U exclusive to look out for is ZombiU, a first-person horror survival game. It promises to be a perfect title for all of the zombie fans out there.

However, even with an impressive starting lineup, how can anyone be sure the Wii U will be as good as it claims? It claims to have 1080p graphics and 2GB of memory: 1GB for system memory and 1GB for game memory. That’s over 20 times the Wii’s capacity. The Wii U’s most noticeable feature is the inclusion of a gaming tablet. It’s a risky move for Nintendo, as not everyone knows if it will play well, but since the tablet can play the Wii U games if a TV is not available, it could be seen as useful for large, quarrelsome families.

The starting price of a basic Wii U set will be a bit pricey for some people – it’s set at $299. The package comes with the console, a gaming tablet, an HDMI cable, a Wii U sensor bar, and an AC adapter. For hardcore Nintendo fans, this is going to be considered worth every penny, but picky gamers might be wary, given the company’s image as being more for casual gamers. However, if it delivers what it promises, this should be a great holiday season for gamers everywhere.

Tamaqua Blue and White Magazine - Issue 2 Volume 2

3

by: Gregg Gehman

4

Tamaqua Blue and White Magazine - Issue 2 Volume 2

Dear bonnie, Someone asked me to prom, I don’t want to go with them, but at the same time I don’t want to hurt their feelings. What should I do or say?

Do not, I repeat, DO NOT go to the prom with anyone because you do not want to hurt their feelings. You would only be falsely encouraging this person for something more and in a way using them. If you want to remain friends, you should say no in an honest and kind way. In doing so, you are being a good friend and staying true to yourself.

I’ve been going out with my girlfriend for a year now and I want to make her Christmas extra special.

Should I get her a gift or take her out on a romantic date, if so, to where?

The options you have depend on your current financial circumstances. If you have your own money to spend, and by own I mean not your parents, a small gift is fine. Earrings or a bottle of her favorite scent is enough. As for a romantic evening, why not invite her to join you in your Christmas Eve plans? After all, Christmas Eve is the most magical night of the year. If you have plans with your relatives or going to a church service, invite her to join you. Sharing quality time on such a special evening will be a memory that will last longer than any gift money could buy.

What do I do if I don’t know what to major in college?

It sounds like you need to ask yourself a few questions. First, what interests you? Second, consider what jobs would incorporate those interests. If you don’t know, talk to a guidance counselor or one of your teachers. You should also consider the things that you absolutely do not want to do in order to eliminate those jobs. Make sure you put it all down on paper so that you can keep your thoughts organized and be able to share your thoughts with an adult. After you have given all of these areas serious consideration, you should have several similar options. The next step is figuring out the level of training required to be qualified for competitive employment. If you know someone working in a field of interest, spend time job shadowing to gain greater understanding of what the given job would be like. Remember, a career is a path that may lead to many different positions, employers, and opportunities. The decisions you make today are important but try not to allow stress to overshadow thoughts of a potentially exciting future. and knew everything, you would not have to go to school. Bottom line – you might not ever be the teacher’s pet, but only a dunce sits back and doesn’t admit when they need help.

I hope I was able answer your questions! If you have any more questions, feel free to ask, as I am always here to help!

sincerley, bonnie

Tamaqua Blue and White Magazine - Issue 2 Volume 2

5

what does the future hold for our seniors? by: Hoyt G. & Sam P. Amanda Hinkle is a creative busy body that everyone has heard of!

Here’s what she had to say, “As busy as I am this year with making time for school, sports, clubs, my family and my boyfriend, I can’t wait until college. I am most looking forward to being able to plan my classes around my schedule and what works best for me. I’m excited to meet new people and have new exciting experiences with all of my current friends.”

We all know and love April Donnon. Who doesn’t? So she was asked our question and she said, “balancing cheerleading, volleyball, school, family activities, and a boyfriend. Is the hardest thing in highschool.

Going to college will be a relief from all the stress at home and also drama from school. What I look for to in college? Meeting new people and starting a new chapter in my life”

It is expected from Tyler Butkus that he is going to go above and beyond in his future. He is already getting a head start by taking many of the AP classes that are offered at the high school. He is one of the many “brains” of the senior class, and it shows in his future aspirations. “I want to go to school at either Susquehanna or Muhlenburg and double major in biochemistry and business. Then I’d want to continue on to medical school afterwards.” Can you say dedicated? Med school is a tough job for anyone, but if anybody can do it, Tyler can.

Everyone knows or has heard about our one and only, beloved exchange student this year. Jack Cheng has transferred to Tamaqua High from his school in China. Jack gives us a little insight of what he wishes to do in the future, “I have to go back to China to finish one more year of school there, but after that, I would like to come back and go to college in America for engineering or business management. I don’t

6

Tamaqua Blue and White Magazine - Issue 2 Volume 2

know where yet, though.” Well, we wish you all the luck Jack, and we hope you enjoy your time here at Tamaqua!

Makia Stocker is known around school as the innocent sweetheart who would be nice to anything with a pulse. Therefore, it’s no surprise that this kind-hearted person wants to go to school for a profession that has to do completely with people. Makia says, “I want to attend a four year college, although I’m not quite sure where yet, and I am going to major in Psychology and Sociology. Then I would ultimately wish to go for my masters to become a guidance counselor.”

Makia has everything planned out and it looks like she has a very promising future!

On a more musical note, Molly Betz is well-known as a music professional when it comes to Tamaqua High School. She is the Drum Major of the Tamaqua Raider Marching Band, she plays first chair flute and piccolo, and is involved in Marching Band, Concert Band, Jazz Band, Chorus, Jazz Choral, and the Gabriel Youth Orchestra. She is also a member of the Tri-M Honor Society, and has played with Band and District 10 Band, and Region 5 Band. Lastly, Molly also has the prestigious position of being first in the entire county in playing the flute. That is a huge accomplishment. So, when Molly was asked as to what she wanted to continue with in music, she gave an excited answer of, “Musically, I would love to major in flute performance, but with music suffering in the current economic standpoint, I will only minor in flute performance or just music in general. I also hope to participate in as many ensembles, choirs, orchestras, and bands as possible! Music is such a huge part of my life, and I don’t know what I would do without it!” Needless to say, Molly doesn’t go unnoticed in the music department because of all of the wonderful things that she, as an individual , is involved in. Her incredible musical talent will help her attain a goal

that few people will be able to achieve.

Tamaqua Blue and White Magazine - Issue 2 Volume 2

7

freshies vs upperclassmen

by: Molly Betz

There’s a massive political debate occurring in our country, filled with harsh words, blatant mistakes, and obvious favorites. Viewers argue about the debate for days following, and even after they are finished mindlessly arguing, still defend themselves and their political opinions. Topics such as women’s rights, the economy, and gun control are covered during these debates, each issue more controversial and hysterical than the last. Here at Tamaqua High, we’re involved in our own controversial subject. It walks the halls (some might say in unnecessarily large groups), sits in classrooms (teachers might say rather loudly), smells strongly of Axe (especially in their respective hall), and strides into the gym for pep rallies to the wonderful, echoing chorus of “GO HOME FRESHMEN!”

ROUND 1 - FRESHMEN Freshmen, we’re talking about you.

Now, don’t get me wrong. There are some pretty fantastic freshmen in the class of 2016. From gifted musicians to uber-involved leaders, the freshmen have some talent to be very proud of. I personally have a few close friends in this class, and I couldn’t imagine my life without them. But I think it’s safe to say that, as a general consensus, upperclassmen have decided that the freshmen need a personality makeover, while freshmen themselves have debated otherwise. Why, though? Is it just the stereotypical thing to do? I mean, previous freshmen classes have had their fair share of taunts and criticizes, too; it’s not just these guys. Or is a personality renovation genuinely needed for this bunch? Are they really as big of an annoyance as upperclassmen make them out to be? To answer these questions, I took to the big, bad streets (and by that, I mean hallways) of Tamaqua High School and investigated into the everyday lives of freshmen: the good, the bad, and the utterly ridiculous.

QUESTION: What do you think of the rest QUESTION: Do you REALLY wear that of the school yelling “GO HOME FRESHMEN!” at pep rallies?

“It is a tradition, so I don’t mind.” ~Zach Wandzilak “It’s not that big of a deal! It’s funny!” ~Cailee Bittner “It was kind of annoying, but I yelled it with the band anyway.” ~Kaitlyn Frantz “I think it’s funny, it’s a tradition! Keep it going!” ~Melanie Kostecky 8

much Axe?

“No, I don’t wear Axe.” ~Tanner Hamm “No. I stopped in 7th grade when I almost passed out it smelled so much.” ~Ben Turrano “I think that stuff is very gross and smelly!” ~Cailee Bittner “Ew, it smells disgusting.” ~Melanie Kostecky

Tamaqua Blue and White Magazine - Issue 2 Volume 2

QUESTION: What is one thing that is totally not true that people say freshmen do?

“Walk side by side in the stairs.” ~Alexis Baddick “They say we complain a lot.” ~Ben Turrano “Get shoved into lockers by upperclassmen.” ~Melanie Kostecky “Besides ‘stupid little freshmen,’ I don’t really hear them talk badly about us.” ~Kelsey Zamudio

ROUND 2 - UPPERCLASSMEN And you thought you were getting away without some attention, upperclassmen? Please.

Admittedly, I have done my fair share of whining when it comes to the freshmen. As one of the world’s busiest students, I’ve felt giant urges to run right over any innocent child who walks in front of me when I’m in a hurry to get to class. As a drum major/band geek, I’ve wanted to yell till I’m blue in the face at misbehaving freshmen when the band is attempting to run through the field show. As a human being with feelings, though, I’ve wanted to figure out why this class is giving off such a negative vibe. I mean, they can’t be any worse than the previous classes were when they were freshmen!... Right?

Wrong. According to various upperclassmen, the freshmen interviewed in this article are full of LIES! Answers to questions conflict with each other quite often, especially when referring to the peevish habits of the freshmen class. Is anybody completely right, though? Does it depend on personal opinion? Or is an entire class, albeit freshmen or upperclassmen, at fault?

The extremely incredible, obscenely amazing, and fantastically biased upperclassmen in Tamaqua High donated some of their time to answer these and a few more questions.

QUESTION: Do you think you were comparable to the freshmen now-a-days?

“Absolutely not!” ~Lizzy Lehman “I think the freshmen now are a lot crazier.” ~Makayla Boyle “Yeah!” ~Julia Reinert “Not quite. I tried to keep my mouth shut so I wouldn’t get jammed into a locker.” ~Karina Derr “NO.” ~Derek Cinicola

QUESTION: What is your least favorite thing that the freshmen as a general class do?

“They spray on so much Axe and perfume.” ~Derek Cinicola

QUESTION: What is your best advice to tell freshmen in order to get them on the upperclassmen’s good sides?

“Use your manners and respect the upperclassmen.” ~Candace Zimmerman

“Walk really slow and stop to talk to other people.” ~Hannah Zoba

“Walk one behind the other down or up the steps and you’ll be good.” ~Makayla Boyle

“Walk side-by-side in the stairs.” ~Mikayla Dillman

“Lose the ‘tude!” ~Lizzy Lehman

“Scream in the hallways.” ~Caity Zimmerman

“Show respect and spirit.” ~Jack Nemeth

“Act like they’re better than everyone else.” ~Julia Reinert

“Let upperclassmen be the ‘rulers’ of school. Your time will come soon enough.” ~Karina Derr

Now it’s up to you. Freshies or Uperclassmen?

Tamaqua Blue and White Magazine - Issue 2 Volume 2

9

tie day friday!

by: Nicki Mateyak

Have you ever taken notice to the fanciness of Fridays at Tamaqua High? If you have, then you know that every Friday is ‘Tie Day Friday’. If you haven’t, open your eyes and look around, I guarantee someone with a tie will be somewhere close! Some of you might remember a few guys wearing ties last year, but this year the idea really caught on. I’m sure most of you don’t really know much about ‘Tie Day Friday’ besides that it takes place every Friday. No worries though! We have all the information you’ll need to know straight from the founders of ‘Tie Day Friday’ themselves: Joel Kulick, Dalton Nunemacher, Travis Miller, and Matt Yeakel. Tie day originated when, according to Joel, “One day Dalton and I decided we wanted to look snazzy and fresh for school, and that day just happened to be a Friday. From that Friday on, we always wore ties, and the name ‘Tie Day Friday’ just caught on!” These guys started this last year, and are still going strong with it! Every Friday I love coming into school to see the new ties they all have on! Even though Dalton and Joel started the idea, Travis and Matt quickly joined last year. This year, week by week, you will notice more students wearing ties; slowly but surely this trend is catching on!

Even though it’s just a simple tie, that piece of cloth has many positives! Joel says, “It just makes you feel good about Fridays because it changes things up.

We have to wear uniforms every day, so why not have fun with it?” I couldn’t agree more. Why not spruce up the uniform a little bit every now and then?

Instead of the same blue, tan, and white every day, add a touch of color, like a tie! Another positive according to Travis is that “the tie brightens peoples’ day and also gives us a classy yet fresh look.” That is a great positive, everyone could use a reason to smile! For Matt, it’s just about loving to wear the tie!

Dressing up is also said to improve academic success! Miss Miller supports this statement by saying, “I love “Tie Day Friday!” I remember a sociology professor told my class that when people dress up for presentations or major exams, they tend to perform better. I always accepted that statement, as I found it true. So dress up on Fridays, and see for yourselfJ” To see if this was correct, we asked the guys if they felt it helped them throughout their school day on Fridays. Travis says, “Putting a tie on does not make you smarter, but dedicating yourself 10

Tamaqua Blue and White Magazine - Issue 2 Volume 2

to something, such as ‘Tie Day Friday’, does lead to success.” I could not agree more with this response! Obviously throwing on a tie or dressing nice does not boost your IQ, but if you dedicate your time to something, and are passionate about it, like these seniors are with ‘Tie Day Friday’, success will be close by! Joel feels the same way about dressing up on Fridays. He says, “When you’re all dressed up, you feel like you’re ready for the day, and you get a ‘today is going to be a good day’ feeling.” With all three agreeing that wearing a tie/dressing up starts your day off right, why don’t you see for yourself! Have a big presentation one day? Why not give it a try and see if it gives you that confidence boost that you need to get that A+.

Not only do the students enjoy wearing the ties on Fridays, the teachers

Tie Day Friday isn’t just for boys! Girls can show their classy side by wearing a button down shirt, a skirt, and even more. The possibilities are endless!

Shown above is Caroline Kanaskie, Jannel Cinicola, Nicki Mateyak, Nikki Slivka, Brynn Lahoto, and Kori Kabilko staying classy on Tie Day Friday!

also love to see the students dressing up! When asked what she thought, Mrs. Weinrich said, “I think our students look great! The ties add another dimension to their uniforms and make them look very grown up. Soooo classy for classes!!” I’m sure many other teachers agree with her! There isn’t much more to tell about ‘Tie Day Friday’, except to share with you, the student body, what these three senior guys wanted me to tell you. Joel, Travis, and Matt all said, “Everyone is invited to join us on Fridays! We want as many people to dress up as possible!” There ya go, so now every Friday when you wake up, grab a tie and get ready for a day filled with success.

Ladies, if you’re not feeling a tie, just wear a skirt or a dress shirt, anything that looks nice to spruce up your day! These three seniors want everyone involved, so I’m going to challenge you Tamaqua High. By May, I want to see at least half the school sporting a tie, or just dressed up. I have faith we can do it, and if we pull it off, we’ll be a pretty fresh looking school

Tamaqua Blue and White Magazine - Issue 2 Volume 2

11

band update. by: Molly Betz

The feeling of winning is unlike anything else. Your stomach plummets, filled with butterflies and anxiety.

Your palms sweat furiously. Your ears begin to ring, the noise of the crowd, your family, or even the silent rejoicing in your head becoming more and more distant. Your brain tries so hard to process this information, but all it can come up with is, “Did that really just happen?” And, above all, a huge, bright smile spreads across your face.

Winning is the best. And the Tamaqua Raider Band has been doing an awful lot of it this school year.

When one thinks of marching band, the word “competition” never comes to mind. Most people only see marching bands in parades, during football games, or practicing like maniacs after school. One would never guess that the million times they see the band performing at football games or in parades or during school are actually practices for marching band adjudications and that each performance is a slight improvement from the last.

Members of sports teams can relate; practicing for an adjudication happens every single time the band gets together, whether it is at a typical 12

school-day rehearsal or a Friday night football game. Just as sports teams treat every game like a practice for playoffs, the band treats every performance as a practice for adjudications.

But what exactly is an adjudication?

Consider adjudications band championships. At adjudications, various bands gather and perform their field shows in front of the watchful eyes of five or more judges. The bands receive a number of points or a Roman numeral rating up to V in three different categories (music, marching, and overall effect), and some judges voice-record their observations for the band directors to analyze. When the performance is complete, the bands hear their final scores, consisting of the ratings “fair”, “good”, “excellent”, or “superior”, with “superior” being the highest. Special awards are given to bands that boast the highest scores in specific categories, such as overall brass or high drum majors. Adjudications are an overall amazing experience for bands, too, as they have a chance to watch other bands’ shows that they may not get to see perform during football season and see how they rank among the competition.

Tamaqua Blue and White Magazine - Issue 2 Volume 2

The Raider band hosts an adjudication every year called The Land Of the Running Water Band Adjudication. This year, LOTRW was held on September 29th and consisted of bands spanning from Panther Valley all the way to Exeter. Marching bands of different sizes and styles performed for hours, culminating with the always fantastic Raider band, the event’s host. Since the Raider band was the host, the band’s scores were not read with the other bands’ scores; the Raider band did not receive any specialty awards either since they hosted the festival. However, when the field is clear of stray bandies and meandering judges, the band’s scores are revealed to them in the end zone. Keeping up with a long-standing tradition, the Raider band received a rating of superior in every category! These scores mean so much to a band that practices for a combined total of approximately four hours each week; proof that hard work and dedication pays off can be found indefinitely within the Raider band.

A week later, when most of the hype from the LOTRW festival had died down (Just kidding. The hype of winning superiors never goes away.), the band travelled to Exeter Township, where they competed in the Exeter Township Tournament of Bands Festival. At 3:45 on the dot, the onehundred and sixty-five members of the Raider band loaded the truck and ventured to the first and only competition of the season besides the hosted LOTRW. What makes the Exeter festival different from the LOTRW festival is the scoring system: because the Raider band competes in an adjudicated category and the Exeter festival features bands under the Tournament of Bands category, the Raider band was judged on a scale ranging from bronze to gold, with gold being the highest, as opposed to the previously used scale. In the history of the Raider band, a gold rating has only been attained once, and that was during the 2011-2012 season. Tensions always become high and attitudes always become harsh as the practices become more rigorous around Exeter time; with the ultimate goal of a second consecutive gold rating, each practice was tougher and more repetitive than the last. However, the goal was shared within the band, making

practices bearable and, as always, enjoyable.

At 6:45 on October 6th, the Raider band performed in front of a crowd of hundreds, a judge staff of ten-plus men, and a faithful fan/band parents section. Though the performance lasted a little under twelve minutes, the competition lasted until 9:00 that night, when the results were announced. Following the announcement of ratings in the other categories, the results were read for the Raider band. A hush fell over the crowd. The avid yelling from the ever-enthusiastic band was silenced. Sweat formed into small beads on the foreheads of everyone anticipating the make-or-break news.

Then the moderator read the word “gold”.

It was as though a flip switched in the stadium. The Raider band erupted into cheers, as did the bleachers. A trophy was accepted, score sheets were passed out, and video-recordings were distributed, but nobody from Tamaqua was even close to caring at that point. The Raider band had won gold for the second consecutive year! As the drum majors bolted across the field, trophy in extended hand, the pride of Tamaqua was felt an hour away in Exeter, not to mention in the screams and cheers of the satisfied band members. One phrase came to everybody’s mind that night: we’re good as gold.

Tamaqua Blue and White Magazine - Issue 2 Volume 2

13

14

Tamaqua Blue and White Magazine - Issue 2 Volume 2

by: Emily Bumbulsky

dogs.

In life, we have relationships with plenty of different people.

From parents and siblings, to best friends and teachers, we become extremely close to people. Of course, I’m close with many different and unique people; however, my relationship with my dogs is very near and dear to my heart. I know dogs aren’t humans, but to me they are two little, lovely people who seem to know when any possible thing is wrong. They snuggle up to me with their warm bodies, and somehow they make it all better. What in the world would I do without them? Call me crazy and weird, but I just call it love.

When I was a little kid, all I dreamed about were golden retrievers. I swear it was basically the only thing that went through my head. When looking up puppy pictures day after day, I continued to see their furry, orange, little bodies and just begged and begged and begged. Finally, on one cold October night in sixth grade after a football game, I came home to be surprised by my sister holding a six-week-old bundle of joy, Hannah. Two years later, I was already picking out another little cutie that we named Gracie. Little did I know it was possible to become so close to two animals, but then again, look at the dog lover I’ve turned into today.

With that being said, I’ll tell the story about how lucky my family has been to be blessed with two well behaved dogs. When my family wanted to surprise me with Hannah, they found an article in the newspaper and drove to a place near Barnesville, called Park Place. We had Hannah for about two years when my mom and I were sitting at my kitchen one summer night.

My mom was reading the newspaper, and eventually she came across an article that was advertising golden retriever puppies. For some reason, the article looked so, so farmiliar.

My dad had told her to call the number just to see, and what we were thinking, was true. The same mother and father of Hannah had puppies, yet again. The next day, we all piled into the car and were on our way to see so many cute, tiny puppies. It was love at first sight. However, we originally picked a boy and were going to pick him up the following day. When we went to finally go get him and bring him home, we realized how happy this one female puppy was as she kept wagging her tale. We realized we needed to have her and take her home, and so, we did. On that day, we brought home the newest member of our family, and maybe the final member, Gracie.

I don’t believe anything or anyone will ever be happier to see me than those two. When I walk through the door of my house every single day, they wobble up to greet me, along with all the toys and shoes in Gracie’s mouth. She loves to retrieve things. You know, just living up to her name. Their tales wag like crazy while they cry because they can’t keep their excitement in. After giving me such a welcome, they stick by my side while I do any little task at home. They watch me slave over my homework, study for tests until my eyeballs feel like falling out, eat my food with their eyes never leaving my plate, keep me company on the couch, and they never fail to keep me warm with their big, old fur. They never fail in getting so excited to go on walks with my sister and me, and they always get excited for the car rides to Locust Lake and Tuscarora for walks. They have seen me at my highest and lowest points, never having to have to hide a single emotion or feeling from them. They’ve been there through the heartbreaks, the makeups, the best days, the worst days, smiles, and frowns. They even have provided something to do when one doesn’t know what else to do in Tamaqua with your significant other. You know, just take the dogs for a walk; it always, always works.

Not only have they been there for me, but I have also been there for them. I wouldn’t want it any other way. I am so blessed to have those two dogs in my life that have created more love within my house than I thought was humanly possible, and somehow brought my family even closer together.

When being told to write an article on my dogs, I thought to myself, “Oh. My. Gosh. Every single person who reads this magazine is going to remember me as the weirdest girl ever who has some weird obsession with her dogs.” Maybe so, maybe so. But what can you do? It’s me, and most people already know the fact that I’m in love with my dogs. If I hear, “Emily... Put another picture up of your dogs on the Internet.

One. More. Time.” #SorryNotSorry. However, I can continue writing about my two dogs, but no one wants to keep reading about them, if you aren’t bored and freaked out enough already. But no words, no matter how much I write, can measure the amount I love and cherish the relationship I have with two of the best friends I have. And yes, they’re dogs.

Tamaqua Blue and White Magazine - Issue 2 Volume 2

15

helpless:

e v i t a cre g n i t i wr by: Joann

Butkus

As people may have seen on Facebook and other social networking sites, there was a week in October in which suicide prevention was promoted. I feel as though a week is not enough to dedicate to such a serious problem, which is why I am writing this article. I will start with some facts: Every 13.7 minutes, somebody in the United States takes their own life. Nearly one million people attempt suicide every year. The number of accounted suicides has increased by nearly 2,000 between 2009 and 2010, and it continues to rise. My question is this: What drives people, young and old, to do this? What is the cause? The answers to these questions vary with each case studied, but one thing is constant: the victims of suicide feel as though there is no other way out. They feel there is no hope, no reason to continue on.

But what these victims did not realize is that there is always hope. For them, unfortunately, it is too late. But that does not mean that those of us here, now, cannot do something to save someone, a friend, a loved one. You may be thinking, “What can I do?”, “How can I help?”, “Does what I do really make a difference?”

Before I answer these questions, I would like to share a story. I wrote a novella as a project for one of my classes last year, and I have included an excerpt from it. In this story titled Like. Love.

Lose., Anna Blake, a fourteen year old girl, meets and develops a strong friendship with Lukas James, who is a sixteen year old boy. The pair has much in common, and they form what seems like an unbreakable friendship over the two years they know one another. However, Anna notices a gradual, yet significant, change in Lukas and grows concerned; her once-best friend is now practically a stranger, hardly conversing with her and becoming more and more engrossed in his diagnosed depression.

After realizing that she could no longer aid Lukas, Anna feels 16

Tamaqua Blue and White Magazine - Issue 2 Volume 2

It hurt her so much that she lost one of her best friends to the throes of depression, but she knew she couldn’t help him anymore. Getting better was now completely up to him, and she would be here if he ever needed her. But until he needed her, she would try to live her life as normally as possible. She was still worried sick over him; this depression was bad, and from what Tammi [Lukas’s mom] told her mom, Lukas would hardly talk to anybody. He would hardly eat. He would go to school, but skip swim and soccer practices not because he couldn’t participate but because he had no motivation to do so; this was not the Lukas she knew at all. Tammi said he was getting worse despite the increase in antidepressant dosage and continued therapy sessions. Tammi was on the verge of a break-down, and Anna could only imagine what she was going through; she knew how hard it was for her as a friend… she couldn’t imagine being a mother and being faced with the monster that used to be her son every day. All Anna could do was hope, hope that some way, somehow, he would be able to return to the boy that she met over a year ago at swim camp…

She was sitting in her living room one night yet again watching television alone. She hadn’t heard from Lukas in weeks and wasn’t expecting to. She had accepted that fact. She was staying up uncharacteristically late; she wasn’t sure why, but an odd feeling of uneasiness prevented her from sleeping. Just as she was headed to bed, her phone vibrated. Lukas.

“Are you awake?” the text message read. Anna’s stomach sank. This wasn’t going to be good. There was no way it could be.

“Yes I am. What’s up?”

“I need to talk to somebody. I messed up. I seriously messed up with my life.” Anna’s heart sank along with her stomach.

“What do you mean? What happened?”

“Anna, I am a failure. I left everyone down. Nobody loves me anymore. All my friends have deserted me, and my parents look at me like I’m not even their kid.

Everyone hates me. And I hate myself.”

“Lukas, I don’t understand what you’re talking about.

Your parents love you no matter what, and so do I. You have to know that.” “…You don’t understand. Nobody does. I’m alone, and

I don’t know how to fix things. There is no way out.”

“Lukas, listen to me…Your family loves you. They are still there. And if you want me to be brutally honest, if your friends are shallow enough to leave you in this rough time, then they weren’t your friends in the first place. But I was always there for you, Lukas, and I still am. There are so many people out there that care about you. You have to know that.”

“Anna, it’s called karma. Good things happen to good people, and bad things happen to bad people. I’m obviously a bad person. My self-esteem right now is literally zero. I’m not worth anything to anybody, and nobody would even miss me if I was gone. Nobody would even notice.”

Anna knew where this was going and began to tremble uncontrollably. God, no. Please, God no. In a panic, she tried anything she could think of to try to change his mind.

“Lukas, please listen to me. You are not a bad person. You are a very good person that bad things have happened to. When it rains, it pours, and you’re living proof of that. But believe me, it will get better. You need to believe in yourself. You have control over yourself; you can save yourself from this depression. You will get better.”

Anna was desperate at this point. God, please no.

“I’m beyond saving. It’s too late for me, Anna.” Anna started crying. Sobbing.

“Lukas, please. I can help you.”

“The only thing that can help me is a rope or a gun.”

know it is difficult to actually imagine something like this happening by reading Facebook statuses about prevention and what not. However, if someone actually experiences suicide, whether it is a loved one contemplating or even if they have contemplated it themselves, it is a very real and numbing experience. I know because this novella was based on a true story; I experienced firsthand what it is like to have a close friend want to end their life. So back to the questions: “What can I do?” , “How can I help?” , “Does what I do really make a difference?” The best advice that I can give is this: just be there. And yes, what you do really does make a difference, even if it seems superficial or unimportant to you. Be there to listen to a friend; tell them. Make sure they know. Give a stranger a compliment; it may make them feel worth something when their world seems bleak. You see someone picking on someone else? Say something. Act. Even if you don’t know them, stand up for what is right, for sometimes people cannot stand up for themselves. And most importantly, if you feel as though someone you know is in danger, even if you get the slightest inkling, tell somebody.

Anybody. Let someone know your concern. Think of it this way: would you rather say something and have it be nothing, or say nothing and have it be something? Be the “way out” for someone in need. The bottom line is you should be there for one another, love one another. True, people disagree and don’t get along. But what people don’t realize is that it is the smallest of things that make a difference. And it is the smallest of things that can save lives.

And this is where I will end the story. I included this excerpt to help everyone realize just how serious suicide is, to help everyone realize that it is real. I

Tamaqua Blue and White Magazine - Issue 2 Volume 2

17

RAIDER PRIDE.

by: Joann Butkus

“Great moments are born from great opportunities.” This was a statement made by Coach Herb Brookes, the head coach of the 1980 US Olympic Ice Hockey Team. This team, for those who may not know, did the impossible that Olympics by defeating the undisputed Soviet Union, bringing home gold for the United States. The movie Miracle was based off the team, and that game is considered to be the epitome of all sporting events in the twentieth century.

Much like the US Hockey team in 1980, our very own Tamaqua Blue Raiders are well on their way to making some significant local history. These Schuylkill County underdogs have ended the regular season journey of winning an Anthracite League title with a record of 10-0. By doing this, the Raiders made history, being the only Tamaqua football team ever to go completely undefeated. This record is quite a turn-around from the Raiders’ previous record of 6-6. Coach Bonner elaborates on the team’s new-found success: “I feel it has been a progression. Tamaqua has made the playoffs three out of the past four years. I feel that the success is directly linked to the hard work that the majority of the team puts in during the offseason.” However, the boys’ dedication continues to build as they progress through the season, working towards their goals. Coach Opolsky explains, “As we prepared for the 2012 season and continue to chip away at our grueling schedule, our number one goal is to win the Anthracite League title. We also have high expectations to make the District 11 playoffs and be a threat to any team along the way. On a daily basis, we focus on getting better, taking steps forward to contend for a District 11 championship.” Surely, our football team is well on their way to fulfilling the dream. But how are they doing it?

What is the underlying cause of all these wins? Sam Bonner has the answer to that question too: “I feel that our senior class is very tight; they seem to enjoy being around one another and enjoy having a good time, goofing around almost too much sometimes. I feel the closer the team is, the better your chance is for success.” Of course this team is going to be tight-knit as they spend hours upon hours together during practice, games, and dinners. As Coach Bonner mentions the seniors being close, the rest of the team is sure to develop a bond much like the graduating class; most of these players have been playing together since middle school, and a kind of “brotherhood” alliance grows between the teammates.

However, the football team is not the only source of excitement of the pending championship; the school and community

18

Tamaqua Blue and White Magazine - Issue 2 Volume 2

are just as anxious about future success. Junior fan Miranda

tainly been a memorable year, not just for the senior players

Amey tells of how football team’s success impacts the entire

but the football team as a whole. All of them are proud of

school: “With the football team doing so well, the school spirit

their accomplishments, and rightfully so. Sophomore Devin

has gone up so much from last year it seems. Everyone gets

“Tank” Murphy says, “It’s a pretty amazing feeling; knowing

excited to go to the games on Friday nights, and the student

you have done something that no one had done is pretty awe-

section always has such a good time!” Very true. The evidence

some, especially all the support that we have been getting

of increased school spirit is everywhere from the regular pep

from the town. I’m glad I got to be part of something so special

rallies to the white outs. Not only students, but fans from

like this.” Nolan Zeigler says, “It feels unreal, playing football

the entire community come out of a Friday night to support

with these seniors since knee high to a grasshopper and just

our Blue Raiders. A town-wide pep rally was even held the

growing together. It’s just crazy how we’re just playing the

Thursday before the Marian game. Talk about love of football!

sport we know and love and being so successful at it. I knew

Molly Betz further elaborates on how the band is impacted by

we had something special this year. I couldn’t wait to finally

all the winning: “I believe that we feel more motivated to keep

show everyone what the Tamaqua Blue Raiders are all about.”

the pride and spirit alive in the stands. When the team does

Quarterback Nate Edmonds says, “…It’s something I will never

as well as it has this year, then that encourages us to be as en-

forget.” Junior Nick Coccio further made a point about how

thusiastic as possible to match the atmosphere in the stadi-

this success will not only be great now but amazing later: “It’s

um. We love to cheer the boys on!” Well said, Molly. I wonder if

gonna be awesome when we’re old and watch a new Tamaqua

the band every gets tired of playing “Go Big Blue.” And don’t

team that could follow in our footsteps and look up to us like

think for a minute that the community and school’s support

we did to the ‘62 team...” Very true. Nobody will ever be able to

goes unnoticed; the players really do appreciate the fact that

take away this milestone from the players and coaching staff.

we are all behind them 100 percent: “Knowing that the study

Surely, the Raider’s winning season has had an immense

body, teachers, and entire community are behind us is amaz-

impact on us all, and it is astonishing to see how one team

ing. We never thought we could bring so many different peo-

can unite school and community. No matter what the over-

ple together just by winning. Having this experience as a se-

all outcome of this season is, one thing is for sure: fans will

nior is seriously a blessing. A successful season is great any

never be ashamed to show their Raider pride. As the Raid-

time, but leading a team alongside the kids you grew up with

ers are careening towards Districts, one can only imag-

during your last year together is one of the greatest things

ine what the next few weeks have to bring. Ultimately, I

I’ve ever felt,” says senior lineman Luke Matsago. This has cer-

think Coach Herb said it best: “Do you believe in miracles?”

Tamaqua Tamaqua Blue Blue and and White White Magazine Magazine - Issue - Issue 2 Volume 2 Volume 2 2

1919

elections by: Josh Ambrose

Mitt Romney is the Republican candidate. Romney’s experience includes being governor of Massachusetts from 2003 to 2007. He believes his tax-reduction bill will fix middle-class unemployment. He does not support gay marriage despite feeling the need to give them equal rights in general. He emphasizes the need of a stronger military budget quite often.

Romney feels the role of education should be a statelevel affair, and wants to see an end to school budget cuts country-wide. He used to support all types of abortion but now only supports rape victims, incestrelated abortions, and the rare instance in which the

mother’s life is in grave danger if otherwise not given one. He seeks stronger gun control laws. Romney believes in a government that uses all energy resources, a nice medium, rather than shifting the scale on big business or environmental growth one way or the other. He believes it is only fair to keep English the primary U.S. language of importance while keeping Spanish something U.S. citizens have the right to speak. Romney is supportive of legal immigration while stressing a need for better Visas as to the illegal aspect of the argument. Mitt Romney is a conservative.

You de 20

Tamaqua Blue and White Magazine - Issue 2 Volume 2

President Barrack Obama, the Democratic candidate, is running for re-election in the up-coming term. Barrack Obama was an Illinois Senator between the years of 2005-2008. He believes in little change to the current system of government.

Obama supports gay marriage. Most notable for saying, “Yes we can!� Obama puts a heavy emphasis on creating jobs for the suffering middle class.

He raised taxes in an attempt to eliminate the government debt with the extra money being collected. He supports abortions of all kinds. Obama

wants to let states and cities control local gun laws.

Obama does not want to ship all the illegal immigrants back to their respective countries for fear of death by oppressors. He fought for a better defense mechanism to make it harder for immigrants to cross the border illegally. His proposal on the education funding going up is for an increase in community service in exchange for government assistance in honor of that. President Barrack Obama is a liberal.

ecide!

Tamaqua Blue and White Magazine - Issue 2 Volume 2

21

homecoming.

by: Hayley Stergis

Homecoming—it’s another one of those things you get to look forward to when you’re finally a senior. Homecoming week is full of festivities such as the pep-rally, spirit week, decorating the halls, and this year’s football game against the close-to-home Panther Valley. Homecoming week is a time to show off your school spirit, and that’s exactly what our school did this year. This all to lead up to the crowning of this year’s homecoming king and queen. And this year’s nominees are… (drumroll, please!) for the ladies: Alex Wagner, Kori Kabilko, Makia Stocker, Lacey Folweiler, Molly Betz, and Janelle Cinicola; and for the men: Nolan Ziegler, Luke Matsago, Robert Slovik, Trevor Arnold, Tyler Butkus, and Joel Kulick.

Also during homecoming week, each class had a chance to decorate a hallway, and if they won, they got the spirit plaque at that Friday’s pep-rally. Freshman and sophomores both went with the jungle theme (maybe next year we’ll make sure no one’s doing the same thing...), juniors went with the video game theme with music from Super Mario playing in their hallway, and seniors with a jail theme, which in my opinion was pretty awesome. And yeah, all were pretty cool, but the seniors took the well-deserved plaque at the pep-rally.

Then came that Friday’s pep-rally on Blue and White Day. In attendance at the pep-rally were students, faculty, varsity and middle school cheerleaders, and Tamaqua Alumni. Everyone was looking forward to the dances of the homecoming nominees so that they could decide who they were going to vote for. The dances were really cool with the theme of celebrity couples. Nolan and Alex were Chris Brown and Rihanna, and most people knew that as soon as you saw Alex’s umbrella go up (Some people say umbrellas inside are bad luck... obviously not.). Molly and Tyler danced to the country power couple, Faith Hill and Tim McGraw, and the ending was definitely the cutest part! Joel and Janelle were the teen couple Justin Bieber and Selena Gomez, and Joel had a pretty awesome flip. Makia and Robert were the couple Gwen Stefani and Gavin Rossdale, and the best part was definitely the banana suit. Trevor and Lacey were one of the hottest celebrity couples, Jay Z and Beyonce, and they added the Single Ladies dance. Lastly, Luke and Kori were had an awesome dance as Nick Canon and Mirah Carrey and The Worm was definitely my favorite part of it. After the pep-rally, all the students returned to homeroom and voted 22

Tamaqua Blue and White Magazine - Issue 2 Volume 2

for their favorite candidates for homecoming king and queen.

Finally came the homecoming game against the Panther Valley Panthers. Tamaqua was dominating, not letting the Panthers score (I like to think Psych Out the Panthers Day worked...). At halftime, the homecoming festivities began. All the nominees were recognized, along with last year’s homecoming king and queen, Peter Conforti and Chey Bates. Then, homecoming king and queen 2012 were announced: Nolan Zeigler and Alex Wagner, who were crowned by Pete and Chey. After the festivities, the game continued with the score 26-0 with Tamaqua in the lead. Unfortunately, it started raining with thunder and lightning, so the game was postponed. Most people thought since Tamaqua was in a 26 point lead, that they wouldn’t finish the game and just declare Tamaqua the winner and add to their undefeated record. The rules state games must be played in full, so the game was going to be finished the next day at 7pm. Tamaqua again didn’t let the Panthers score. And if homecoming week wasn’t already great enough, Tamaqua ended homecoming week with a record of 8-0, winning the homecoming game 46-0 against the Panthers.

meet the court.

Janelle Cinicola is the daughter of Brian and Michelle Cinicola. She is the current Secretary of the National Honor Society and is also a member of the Tamaqua Student Government Association. Janelle is a member of the Spanish and English National Honor Societies and is a six year member of the Raider marching Band. She has played on the basketball and softball teams and is a representative to the Schuylkill County Youth Conference. Janelle plans on attending a four year college to pursue a career in Interior Design.

Janelle is escorted by Joel Kulick. Joel is the son of John and Pamela Kulick. Joel is a five year member of the ski club and is the current physics club President. He has been a member of the basketball, baseball, and wrestling teams.

After graduation, Joel plans on attending Bloomsburg and Temple Universities to pursue a career in Dentistry.

Makia Stocker is the daughter of Colin and Lois Stocker. She is an active member of the media club, drama club, and ski club. She is a member of the Tri M Honor Society, English National Honor Society, and National Honor Society. the girls’ tennis team.

Makia is also a member of

She plans on attending a four

year college and wants to be a Guidance Counselor.

Makia is escorted by Robert Slovik. Robert is the son of Dan and Tanya Slovik. Robert has been a member of the boy’s basketball and cross country teams. He has a black belt in Japanese Ju-Jitzu. He plans on attending LCCC and Bloomsburg University to major in Kinesiology.

Lacey Folweiler is the daughter of Diane Chicanavage and Frank Folweiler. Lacey is the Secretary for the Tamaqua Area Student Government Association and she participated in the Schuylkill County Youth Conference. She is also a member of the National Honor Society and both the English and German National Honor Societies. Lacey plans to attend a four year college and major in fashion merchandising.

Lacey is escorted by Trevor Arnold. Trevor is the son of Russell and Tracy Arnold. Trevor is a four year member of the boy’s soccer team. He also is a member of the biology club, Treasurer of the physics club and has been a four year member of the Tamaqua Area Student Government Association. Trevor is the Vice-President of the class of 2013 and is also a member of the National Honor Society and the English and Spanish National Honor Societies. After high school he plans to go to a four year college and major in Secondary Education Social Studies.

Alexandra Wagner is the daughter of Karen and Craig Wagner. She is Captain of the girl’s soccer team and is also a member of the girls’ track and field team. Alex is VicePresident of the National Honor Society and is a member of the Science and Spanish National Honor Societies. She is also active in the ski club and biology club. Alex plans on attending college to become a Physician’s Assistant.

Alex is escorted by Nolan Zeigler. Nolan is the son of Marlin and Jessica Zeigler. He is a member of the wrestling team and the football team where he leads the team in tackles. In 2011 he was All Anthracite First Team Linebacker and received the Blue Raider Football linebacker Award. He attends Vo-Tech for residential/ industrial electricity and plans on attending LCCC to pursue a degree in electrical technology engineering.

Kori Kabilko is the daughter of Michelle and Eugene Kabilko.

She has been a four year member of the girls’ soccer team and is captain this year. She is also a four year member of the girls’ basketball team. Kori is a member of Big Brothers/Big Sisters and the German National Honor Society. She plans on attending a four year college to major in speech therapy.

Kori is escorted by Luke Matsago. Luke is the son of Donald and Tracy Matsago. Luke is a four year member of the football team and is also a member of the wrestling team. He is a member of both the National Honor Society and Spanish National Honor Society. He plans on attending a four year college to major in physical therapy.

Molly Betz is the daughter of Kris and Doug Betz. She is the current drum major of the Raider Marching Band and has been an active member of the band all four years of high school. She is the Treasurer of the Tamaqua Area Student Government Association and is a member of Leadership Council. Molly is a member of the Spanish and English National Honor Societies, the Biology club and World Language Club. She was Tamaqua’s representative for the Hugh O’Brian Youth Leadership Seminar in 2011. She plans to attend a four year college and major in Occupational Therapy.

Molly is escorted by Tyler Butkus. Tyler is the son of Diane and Pete Butkus. Tyler has been a four year member of the Tamaqua Boys Swim Team and was Captain last year.

He is also a member of the golf team as well as the English, Spanish, and Science National Honor Societies. He is President of the Biology club and also serves in the physics club, chemistry club, and Leadership Council. Tyler plans to pursue a four year degree before moving onto medical school.

Tamaqua Blue and White Magazine - Issue 2 Volume 2

23

haunted elementary!

by: Jacob Gursky

Just because all of the students go home doesn’t mean that nothing entertaining happens. We interviewed several custodians about their odd afterschool experiences.

You will probably be surprised by the amount of interesting stories they have. Some are spooky, some are scary, and some are just plain gross!

Haunted Elementary?

Maryann, a custodian at the high school, has also worked at other schools in the district. At night, it was her job to turn out the lights in the computer lab. *Click* She would turn out the lights and walk out of the room into the deserted floor. Then, suddenly, they turned back on! This happened on multiple occasions. Maryann was creeped out at this point and went to the elevator to go back downstairs. This elevator was on a motion sensor and only opened when it sensed someone walking in. Every night, Maryann would walk in, the doors would close, and she’d ride it down.

This night, however, the doors started to close and opened back up as if someone was walking in and she had to ride downstairs with the ghost! “I jumped,” she says, still spooked by the experience. Maryann isn’t the only one who’s reported seeing strange apparitions in the Elementary School.

Could there be otherworldly beings at work? Or could it just be an overactive imagination? Either way, I know I wouldn’t want to spend a night in the school!

The custodians interviewed almost unanimously gave reports of strange noises at night, mainly ghostly footsteps on the roof. Could disgruntled spirits walk the roof?

Going Batty One night, Kathy noticed something flap its way down the hallway. She couldn’t tell what it was at first, but she sure knew it wasn’t a bird! Then, she heard Maryann scream. They chased the phantom downstairs where Roberta managed to capture it. It was a bat that had somehow made its way into the school! This isn’t the first time the world’s only flying mammal had made its way into the school. On one particularly horrifying occasion, a group of custodians turned around to the unpleasant surprise of a bat flying right at their faces! Anyone who was in Mr. Grabowski’s homeroom last year probably remembers the bat that flew in through the missing ceiling tile. It was probably mad we woke it up!

Appearances of animals are not, however, limited to furry creatures, much the middle school custodians’ horror. One night, they found a little friend slithering his way in front of the library. The snake had to be “escorted” out of the school by the school’s very own creature bouncers.

Snakes and bats and ghosts, oh my! Next time you go home from school, just stop and think about who or what might still be walking, flying, or just sweeping through the high school.

24

Tamaqua Blue and White Magazine - Issue 2 Volume 2

by: Emily Bumbulsky

thanksgiving

When I think of Thanksgiving, nothing but complete and utter happiness rolls through my head. It is one of my top three favorite holidays, without a doubt. Many may not favor Thanksgiving due to the fact that gifts aren’t given and it’s just not as good as Christmas, but to me, it is an extremely close second. How can you ignore the fact that there are tons of beautiful and different shades of leaves all over the ground and on the trees if any are left? Or is it maybe the fact that it is finally cold enough to wear your favorite sweater or winter coat? All of these things are personally favorites, but nothing compares to having all of your family and friends back home and together again.

Through all the great things that Thanksgiving includes, nothing compares to the fact that I know I get to see everyone again. When everyone left for college, or the last time I saw my brother since the summer, they all uttered the same, depressing words of, “I’ll see you at Thanksgiving…” Those three months, for me, have been dragging. Thanksgiving is the first break we get from the usual, boring routine of going to school, practice, doing schoolwork, eating, sleeping, and repeating day after day. Finally, a break, a well-deserved break, to say the least. The fact that I can look around and see all the familiar and loved faces of my friends and family, who I never get to see on a normal basis, fills my heart with love. Anticipating Thanksgiving gets me extremely excited and I can’t bear to wait any longer.

Along with seeing my family and friends, for my family it’s always a tradition to get our Christmas tree on the Friday after Thanksgiving and the listening to Christmas music constantly officially begins. The fact that the holidays are looming has the ability to make anyone happy, being it makes me the happiest person in the world. The feeling of the cold air

and eating chestnuts is pure happiness. Thanksgiving, for me, officially starts Christmas and that’s a large factor of why I’m so completely in love with the holiday. Even though Christmas is a month away in reality, it makes me smile for the whole month straight, even through the grueling swim practices I must struggle through.

But really, we all know Thanksgiving is about food. Food.

Food. Food. And food. I believe a holiday with the celebration of food is fine by every single person I know. Every Thanksgiving when I’m done swimming practice or going running, the smells from all the different types of food overwhelms me when I walk through the front door of my house. From the pumpkin pies, turkeys, potatoes, stuffing, yams, the list goes on forever. Every single family celebrates Thanksgiving differently, but in most cases, we are all bombarded with large amounts of food that nearly suffocate us. After forcing plate after plate of food down our mouths, it’s only an American tradition to watch the football games. As many say, Thanksgiving purely involves food and football.

The closeness that Thanksgiving creates is a feeling I wouldn’t trade for the world. To have everyone here within my reach again is such a good feeling. Thanksgiving creates home, and to me, home is the best place in the world. After all, what place is truly better than your own home with your loving family? Thanksgiving starts the holiday season, which is my favorite time of the year. Ever. Now that September and October are over, it’s time to enjoy November and December, which are two of the best months of the year. To everyone: enjoy your family, friends, and time off from school. Happy Thanksgiving from the magazine to you!

Tamaqua Blue and White Magazine - Issue 2 Volume 2

25

polls

What is your favorite type of Halloween candy?

ick-or-tr r t o g u o y Did this year?

eating

Lollypops + Jolly Ranchers

Popular reasons for Halloween being your favorite holiday:

“I love dressing up!” ”I love the movies that come on

around this time of year.”

“I like going to haunted houses.”

YES

Apples

Cand

y Cor

n

NO

Chocolate

Whom would you have voted for in the recent election?

“You get free candy! Duh!” “It is/is close to my birthday.“ “The weather is awesome around this time.“

Barack Obama 53%

Popular reasons for Halloween not being your favorite holiday:

“I like Christmas better.”

“I hate being scared.”

“We don’t get off of school.”

Honorable mentions:

“I get to look awesome with my friends!”

“I get candy from strangers!”

Last, but not least, “I am able to be a banana without being judged.”

26

Tamaqua Blue and White Magazine - Issue 2 Volume 2

Mitt Romney 47%

R E C O G N I Z E Creating the Blue and White Magazine is no easy task! As I would love to say it’s as glorious as a walk on the beach, I cannot lie. There is a lot time, effort, and emotion put into every single page of every single issue.

When the bell sounds at 2:25 on a Friday afternoon, most of Tamaqua High is pushing and shoving down the stairwells to barge out into the crisp, fall air. Magazine members, however, stay behind to work on the magazine we are all so proud of. I would like to recognize and thank the following members of magazine for all of their hard work and commitment. - Kyle Weaver, President

Jacob Gursky - Vice President Gregg Gehman - Secretary Ms. Schmauch - Adviser Austin Miorelli Carly Fenstermacher Caroline Kanaskie Dallas Mease Damian Munoz Emily Bumbulsky Ethan Hull Hayley Sturgis Hoyt Gyuricsek Joann Butkus Joshua Ambrose-Manness Kori Kabilko Molly Betz Nicki Mateyak Sam Postupack

Tamaqua Blue and White Magazine - Issue 2 Volume 2

27

28

Tamaqua Blue and White Magazine - Issue 2 Volume 2