Tamaqua Blue and White - Issue 4, Volume 1: Senior Edition

Tamaqua Blue and White

Issue 4 Senior Edition

...

G IN D N E ’T N IS LD R O W E H T WE’RE JUST TAKING OVER.

Cover art work inspired by Sam Shellhamer.

Dedicated to the Class of 2012!

table of contents: Page 3: Kyle Hacker - One in a Million Written By: Emily Zancofsky Page 4-7: The Dream Team Written By: Danielle Fox Page 8-9 : Remembering the Rams Written By: Jordan Reabold Page 10-11: YOPO! (You only prom once!)

Written By: Jacqueline McMullen Page 12-13: Senior Surveys Written By: Danielle Fox Page 14-15: Oh The Places You Will Go Written By: Emily Zancofsky Page 16: Careers Written By: Dakota Vadimsky Page 17: Advice from Eli Written By: Dakota Vadimsky Page 18: Pomp and (disastrous) circumstance Written By: Jordan Reabold Page 20-21: Senior Year Timeline Written By: Jacqueline McMullen Page 22-23: Then & Now Written By: Emily Zancofsky

Graphic Design & Photography By: Kyle Weaver

one in a million: Born on July 11, 1991 with a condition that doctors could not identify, Tamaqua High’s very own Kyle Hacker will graduate on June 1 as a member of the class of 2012.

With the support of his aides, parents, friends, fellow classmates, and personal courage, he prevailed after three separate episodes of respiratory failure and a diagnosis concerning two separate chromosome issues. Nonetheless, Kyle persevered and continued to fight to survive against all odds. After having a trachea inserted to help his breathing and growing up in the blink of an eye, Kyle attended Rush Elementary, Tamaqua Middle School, and has, of course, made his presence known at the Tamaqua High School.

Many would think that this disease would stop him from enjoying everyday activities, but these “many” have thought wrong.

Kyle is actively involved in the high school’s concert choir, physical education activities, and loves the high school band. He also enjoys instigating trouble, being a ham, and laughing at everything.

One special quality that Kyle beholds is the talent to remember everyone he meets. A student or faculty member could have said hello one time and from that moment on, Kyle knew exactly who that person was. If you have yet to meet Kyle yourself, stop and say hi! It will be a decision you’ll always remember, and you’ll definitely make his day.

Kyle attended the prom with Elizabeth Lehman and had an amazing time with all of his friends. Looking sharp with his teal blue tie, Kyle stole the show with not only his dance skills, but with the smile that was lit across his face.

While you are reading this, you may not have thought that a boy with such a rare disease could accomplish so many things. However, not only has he left his mark on our school, but he has left a mark on the entire nation. That’s right! Kyle Hacker is currently the only person in the United States to be living with this condition. He is one amazing boy and he will be greatly missed by many people in the school after graduation.

The Tamaqua Blue and White would like to say congratulations to Kyle Hacker on all of this accomplishments and good luck with all of his future endeavors!

tamaqua blue & white. issue 4. senior edition.

3

EAT. SLEEP. MAGAZINE.

a note from danielle fox: A Note from the Writer to Help You Understand: Us here in the world of magazine enjoy literary devices.

We love our allusions, metaphors, allegories, similes, and all the other pleasant tools of the craft. So, allow us to use a simile and say that, “The writers of the magazine are like a baseball team.” With that in mind, sit back and enjoy this metaphorical and baseball allusion-packed history of the Tamaqua Blue & White Magazine.

Here’s a crackerjack fact you probably didn’t know: The Tamaqua Blue & White isn’t a new team. It has actually been hitting home runs here in Tamaqua since a time when most of your parents were just foam finger-waving teenagers themselves. Twentyeight years ago, our anthracite community proudly boasted acclamation for the Nation’s 2nd best school newspaper (now that’s some Big League stuff, kids).

Yet, in the greatest tragedy since the death of Ray Chapman in a Major League game, the 2nd best school publication became the nonexistent publication in the 1990’s. The room at the end of the third floor hallway that once hosted the charismatic leaders of the paper has been converted to a faculty office; the Newspaper’s painted title still hovers above the old home plate looking now like a tombstone’s epithet.

From the ashes of the original team, the magazine you read at this very moment was birthed. A gangly group of 11 brought together by our coach, Kyle Weaver, the writers and teammates of this crew began their season back in December with a dream of having a home run filled game that lasts longer than

4

tamaqua blue & white. issue 4. senior edition.

just 9 innings. Taking to the field hoping to publish at least one edition this year, this team has already sent three home-runs whizzing into the stadium. This last little gem is a number four; the odds are in our favor.

While just a little hometown team, this magazine drafted the ‘little players that could’ and have worked tirelessly through the second semester of the school year to achieve the perfect season.

The work the public sees going into the magazine and the actual amount of work that goes into making this game happen are two different ballgames. There is so much more than the witty writings and pretty pictures. Please note that in your hands is a packet of high gloss paper. That packet of paper was made possible by fund raising, ad sales, grant money, communication with the Times News Printing Company and other local businesses, everyone down at the District office, school principal approval, almost weekly meetings, and a tireless group advisor. All of that is done before the team even hits the 7th inning stretch. With jam-packed games like this, all of us seem to be ready for early retirement and hefty a pension package.

This dream team is not making ESPN’s top plays anytime soon. Our salary is non-existent instead of being in the million-dollar range, and the only steroid we are on is caffeine. Despite all this, we do hope that we at least brought a smile to the lovers of written word or that you enjoyed looking at the pictures.

Looking forward to another year with you readers, the Tamaqua Blue & White Magazine wishes everyone a happy offseason.

the dream team: They are the ones behind the mirror, the warriors of the written word. They are the dreamers, but also the do-ers. They are the underdogs- the ones trying to succeed when so many have failed before them. They are the sleep-deprived, sanity-questionable student in the second row. They are the only seniors working through Senioritis. They are the ones constantly fighting for 20-something pages of colorful, glossy love. They are the good, the bad, and the ugly. They are the Senior Writers of The Tamaqua Blue & White Magazine.

tamaqua blue & white. issue 4. senior edition.

5

6

tamaqua blue & white. issue 4. senior edition.

tamaqua blue & white. issue 4. senior edition.

7

remembering the rams: We all know the feeling. We spend the day watching the clock’s arms heavily drag, tapping our pencils and gazing out the windows at the fallen autumn leaves chasing their shadows. It’s Friday—and tonight can’t come soon enough. Already we can smell the French fries and pizza sizzling in the senior stand. We can hear the echo of the marching band’s cadence as they descend onto the field. We can see the lights, blinding white, piercing the chilly fall sky. We can feel the anticipation as the Victory Song blares, welcoming the Blue Raiders onto their stage. This is their time. This is Tamaqua football.

At first glance, those boys look like a bunch of muddy goons— white helmets, pads, cleats caked with grass… same old. But I dare you to take another look. That’s not sweat— that’s dedication. That’s not mud— that’s perseverance. They’re not just some guys in jerseys. They’re a team.

And so here I sit with the Tamaqua senior ‘Rams,’ (Icky, Pete, Groner, Dbone, and Swags) as they define, reminisce, and even lament over all things ‘Ram Jam.’ So what exactly makes them Rams? Icky, whom Dbone refers to as ‘the smart one,’ fills me in. “Ram Jam is just a couple of undersized, sweaty, blue collar football players,” he says with pride. (He forgot to mention ‘Guers drinking). And after a confused collection of additional definitions, here’s what they come up with: “They exemplified the reasoning that when talent doesn’t work hard, hard work beats talent. And you know what, our hard work beat some good talent this season. That’s Ram Jam.” Swags adds that to be a Ram, one must be a lineman. (This is why you may have heard Dbone, a quarterback, referring to himself as a ‘Lamb.’ Oh how intimidating.)

With this I am not satisfied. There has to be more to it, so I ask, “What’s your fondest Ram memory?” At this, they lean back in unison, hands clasped behind their heads, smiling. Pete is the first to respond: “When I fought Sweigert…because I ate his hash brown.” After an eruption of deep, hearty laughter, Icky can’t help but cry, “I demand retribution!” Again, cue the goon laughs.

“There’s just so many,” is all they can say. Finally, Icky gives his response: “The time we beat Marian our senior year.” And Groner: “When I got my sack,” to which Pete adds, “and he ran like a flat footed cheetah!” (I don’t ask.) Swags entertains his memory with the thought of he and Icky “demolishing some kid from PV.” Naturally. Lastly, Dbone chuckles as he states, “My favorite memory was when Sweigert got the concussion last year at the Lehighton game and asked me what the count was…in the middle of a play.” Good times, good times.

Okay, now we’re getting somewhere. I challenge them even more. “Describe your high school football experience in one word.” Once again, I am answered by puzzled faces and a whole lot of ‘uhhhs.’ Pete is the first to cave. Expecting a heartfelt response, what do I get? “Good.” And of course, I can’t help but laugh along with them. “Use that!” they insist. Well, there you 8 tamaqua blue & white. issue 4. senior edition. go, boys.

But now it’s time to get serious…not. In order to compensate for his ‘good’ answer, Pete attempts at sincerity… Poor, poor Petey. “Memoriable!” There you have it, Tamaqua High. Our very own Raiders at their finest.

That’s enough of that.

Sure, they’ve had their good times, but what about two a days and the misery, the agony…the sweat? Pft. Agony shmagony.

Dbone insists, “I would go through every single year of two a days and practice to play one more game.” “In a heartbeat,” says Icky, finishing Dbone’s sentence. The remaining Rams all agree.

The field has become their battleground, their sanctuary, their home away from home. Graduation will be the last time they stand on that field together. As students, as friends, and as Rams. Dbone ponders this. “I’ll be sadder that it’s my last time on the field than the fact that it’s my last year of high school.” His pal Groner has his own plans up his sleeve. “I just wanna fail. Let’s all just drop out and come back. Maybe we’ll get one more year of eligibility.” The others agree. If only, boys. If only.

Icky, always the source of wise words of wisdom, enlightens us. “It was the best of times; it was the worst of times. Shakespeare. Quote it.”

Now it’s time to look ahead toward a future of Ram Jam. According to Swags, the younger lineman will carry the legacy.

You heard it people. Luke Matsago is the man to look for in the fall.

But what about the Rams themselves? Will they keep in touch? Smart guy Pete immediately responds, “No,” and Groner adds, “Everyone but Dbone.” After becoming so close to these guys over the years, I wouldn’t expect anything different. Now in all seriousness, they reply “Yes!” in unison. They further explain that they can’t wait to pay a visit to Misericordia University, Pete’s future college, to watch him play the game with a whole new team. Dbone promises, “We’ll definitely be at the games together. All of us.” Just like always.

I listen back on this interview constantly, laughing harder and harder every time. It’s the way their voices all boom over one another. The way the camera shakes every time they bang their fists on the round white table. The way Pete peeks his head over the lens and flashes a cheesy grin. The way each one of their personalities become distinct with every word they speak. You can just hear the smiles in their voices. It’s no wonder Icky calls this a brotherhood. I’m going to miss these goons more than they’ll ever know. Years from now, wherever I am, I’ll listen to their words again, still laughing at their bad jokes, remembering Tamaqua and the people we love—remembering the Rams.

THE RAMS.

PETER CONFORTI. TYLER GRONER. ANTHONY IACOVIELLO.

MATTHEW DELBORRELLO. MICHAEL SWEIGERT. tamaqua blue & white. issue 4. senior edition. 9

yopo: It was Thursday night, Prom Eve if you will, and I lay in my bed tossing and turning as the hours dragged on. I was worse than a little kid on Christmas Eve that was too excited to sleep, but judging by the tweets, I wasn’t the only restless one. All of the prom attendees were busy with last minute preparations and overcome with excitement for the event to finally kick into full swing at Penn’s Peak.

My stomach did a somersault as the realization hit me. This was it. The day we had all been preparing for for months was less than twenty-four hours away. The hair, make-up, manis, pedis, flowers, tuxes, dresses, tanning, jewelry. All for six hours.

Would it be worth it?

Eight a.m. and my eyes shot open even before my alarm clock went off. After a busy morning of hair appointments, make-up, flowers, and tux pick-ups, everyone was more than ready to get to the show on the road. Eager parents, family members, and friends were lined up with their cameras waiting to capture this once in a lifetime moment. They watched the boys in their freshly pressed suits slip a flower onto their date’s hand as she tried not to poke him while pinning his own flower onto his lapel. Smile after smile, flash after flash as everyone admired the prom goers. Soon, the girls were teetering forward in their heels escorted by their date as they made their way to the limo, bus, or car ready for the much anticipated night to finally begin.

Pulling up to Penn’s Peak, my jaw dropped at the crowd gathered to snap some more shots of the seniors. After more hugs and photos, we proceeded inside for the grand march and slowly made our way to the bar for some Shirley Temples and appetizers. Dinner was served, and after the plates were cleared and the pie devoured, everyone shuffled to the dance floor as “Party Rock Anthem” came pouring out of the speakers. The prom attendees danced the night away until Mrs. Weinrich took the mic to crown this year’s prom king and queen, Matt Kurek and Jacqueline McMullen. The senior boys later got dressed up in crazy costumes for the “YMCA,” and they broke out the umbrellas for “It’s Raining Men.” Everyone was sad as the final note of the last song, the senior’s class song, faded out. However, the memories didn’t stop after the final song. Many seniors gathered together to reminisce over the night’s events. It was an unforgettable night. You only prom once; I’d go back to that night in a heartbeat, and I wouldn’t change a thing.

10

tamaqua blue & white. issue 4. senior edition.

tamaqua blue & white. issue 4. senior edition.

11

r Summe

2k12!!

Memo

2012

ass l C r o Seni

senior surveys: : Name

ries Memo Attire Prom llege of Co n io t Selec

azine

is

e mag Jake Fegley - Best ShoeanStyle d Whit e in lu he B u fill us, t atayo h “Once a sneakerhead, always g t in h k as proac s. We azine. kly ap senior sneakerhead . ” quic e r mag h t to in ou

Prom

Selec

ries

Attir

tion

e

Senio

of Co llege

r Cla ss 2 012 Nam

Dakota Vadimsky- Moste: Intellectual As th e end of t“hThanks to my parents for passing on e yea work r is ing o quick n a v their intellectual ly ap genes to me!” e

ry sp proac ecial hing s on issue us, t this he Blu dedica sheet ted t e and Thank , as o w s! :) Whit e wo t h e senio uld lo rs. W ve to r is a e e y use y ask t ed e rs of th edicat hat our a answe sue d nswe your e end is e l s ia u W c r As th e s h o p e t s n in e y v I look our m a ver ould lo back Danielle Fox: Social Butterfly g on we w on th [ s a , workin t e is fin this should read ‘SociallyI think is she al ye what} ar, I on th ] {did remem Zack Ruba - Most Handsome Guy blanks awkward butterfly’ but beinstead, r wh [ n en [ e h :) w ! s r k e n ] thanks senior class!

Fill in Tha memb r, I re ] {did s! al yea n w fi this ] B n e o s t k c S a h b o e St I look yle: When Class al: u Most t c e ll C e lo t Intelle w In n : ctual: Most : [ it ir B p e Sum s S M t l o Anthony Iacoviello: Best Facial Hair o s D o t mer h r c e S ssed: chool 2k12Kayla Hope - Most MBeautiful ost S Girl S pirit: !!

Bigge : Cute Fear the Beard! st Tr Couple s t t s u C e ck (g ouple ut 38 moIC uys : ll ins!

Best ream Oh my goodness only): Best daybeyond Memo Fi sH!!air: Smile : le y H ries t a S : ir t : e s o e h B flattered! That seriously could-thave Prom est S earthB: est Most AttirB Facia n ow o down d e : l Hair n ost the seniorirl: -to-e Selec went to any other girl Min Clow ( g s u s tion arth: S G y la s o l c u M ia o if o of CC n l t s ly u t B a !) u e : B ollege : t B d class, e t e a N because they are all beautiful t e s u a r s s m t fl e o e: iful G y: M Dr Guy: irl: only): Best Most As th dsome guys ( n people! a H e end k H a c n t u dsom r s T o of th M t e u e yeB [ ges work arigis y: ing o Cecily Kohlmeir: Best GSmile quick n a v Brad Hosler Most-Down-To-Earth ly ilaep: e r y proac m blank : s S !) p e ly t c h s on ing u s on iales B issue this I appreciate it! (gusy, the Blu dedica sheet ! t Hair e and , as hanks ] SH YEAR we w t Facial ed to the ! :) White E H OULD T s o D e u s ays!! enior ld lov ear U maga B OF s. We zine e to fly: BE moTrEeA d lass CHERndercla is 8 urse ask t c A 3 e E t t T y v u our a hat y CHER ssm <fa B nswe ou fi D BE Social OF rs ll O en inUL 2k12!!en, yo

the

blank

“

”

Senio “ r Cla ss

“

”

“

”

2012

”

I look back on th is

ns!

year,

[

I rem em

ber w hen

the

Sum

[ take E to V ] {did HA2 k 1 u t} 2!! Hair Tawnie Gerber en, yo w-haBest lassm c r e d n ear U Memories D M Most Int ]

Summer

mer

[

Senglad emor“I’m really ie i people like mytire

oe S tyle:

wn:

ual:

only):

ecsttioHair: n of

u HA VE

to ta ke [

Name:

ellect

Prom

]

er!

2012 SenioOrv Class

or CI can PromtoAttake Scsho hair ol SIp do everything irit: l CuteA a sttC toiurpele: of it.” stion2of elec Ss care Sel Be Most

sed:

ck (g uys

final

in ou H r ma ] S gazin e.

38 mo re day s!!

THE

YEAR

!

<fav class

]

Travis Kistler: Biggest Ove Truck r!

College

012

is hite magazine e Blue and W th , us g in ch down ickly approa ge -to-e r (gu fill in the Nam the end of the year is qu arth: ys on M ask that you ly!): Ase: As t ost Beaut e seniors. We th to ed iful G at : he e dedic irl: Zachary Hunsicker &ryErin Most nd special issue r magazine. ve Handosf t answers in ou working on a ome he ur work yo e us to G y uy:ear ing o Fegley - Cutest Couple would love Dana Ansbach: Most Stylish is qu n a sheet, as we ickly very blanks on this blank appr spec s on oach ial is ] SH this O ing u anks! :) sue shee ThUaLnD BE sTh dedic , the t, as ks! TEACH a t Blue :) E e we w d to R OF n, yo ] {did what} u HA and T o H t E u h VE t e ld Y Whit E s A lo ber when [ R enior em o tak m v ! re I e e , ar ye magis to u e [ s. W final azin se y back on th e Whe e is <fav clas our When I looaksk th n I lo ] s a a nsw t yo ok b e u r s a ] fi ck o [ in ll [ in our nO th the maga veris! fi Brianna zine nal y Boyle - Most School Spirit al: . ear, Most Intellectu I rem embe Roger Taras: Class Clown r wh irit: Fill i sto! everyin st School Sp ean nice ill Mo F I guess saying have day ns! [ ] : le: Best one in the morning really pays off! ]oe{d Style Cutest Coup Best Sh Shoe id w hat} Style Clas : s Clo Best Hair: Class Clown: wn: 12 tamaqua blue & white.

4. senior edition.

Mosissue t Best -earth: : Intell Most down-to Best Dressed ectu Dres a sed: Most l: Bigg Scho (guys only): ul Girl: est Most Beautif Biggest Truck o Most

Colle

+ “

”

B

Be

Bes

Socia

[ Dear

Und

days!!

!! r 2k12

Senio

r Cla ss 2 Attir e Michael SweigerReality TV Show Star 01 Selec tio

12 0 2 s Kyle BoyerlaMt.s Everest Climber C r o i Se“nLooks like I need to get my stuff

Summe

Memo

Prom

ries

n of Colleg

e

:

Name

: As th e end M of th ine is e yea e z a ir g w t a t o m r is r A k e in g on quick e Whit g Prom d e e h n ll a ly ap a t o e v C in e lu r ll f B y proac fi o b e s la h u p n t o n e y , io k hing ciaAlways s t s t u c a l o h Kelsey PatrickSuccessful le g is n t us, t in s h k Se t u c s h a a e te m is o he Blu r e Emily HanslerWorld Traveler d p s e W . p d h e agazin icated eet, a e an Thank I’m really azin kly a niors. g ic e a s u e is s honored to win most likely m t q o w e s r h is ! e u t t o :) h r w o a e e t in o y s u d s e ld e e r n t you h t e iors. love ica prove everyone f t I cannot wait dto nsw to succeed because I always We a to try fill in end o ue de our a use ymy s tAhse the ial iss use y c e o o u p t s r maga e y a v r n e lo right! s best, and it gives me hope that all of v w zine. ld a e u W r o s in hen I w g on look as we workin back work will pay off someday! my hard heet, s } t a is o [ h h n this w on t ] {did final blanks year, I rem [ n e embe h :) w ! s r wh mber e Thank m en [ e r I , r what a Gabby MineahanNobel Prize Winner e ] y F l a } i n l l fi Allen Duffy-GuyAbducted By Aliens i n is ] s! ] n th ack o b k o B lo e I s t n Shoe Whe Style ctual: : Intelle C t s la o s Most M s : C [ it lown: ir Intelle p S ctual: hool c S B t est D M Mos o s t r e S ssed: : chool Couple Spirit Bigge ! : utest C s C u n s i t t e st C Truck Fill o u : p : ( le g le: Sum e Sty uys Hair Best Peter ConfortiMr. America only Best Best Shomer 2 Sanchez- To be on the Vogue Kristen ): Hair: earth: Smile: k12!!

Best o t 50 stars! 50 states! 1MAmerica! down : Best Cover Most ost d Clown irl: Facial G ownl Class u Hair ( 38 mor to-ea autifS e e : g B d u d e Memo a y y rth: t s ss!! I’m s o s no clue how c e o M r I have i won this, but ia o M o ries n D : l st B ly : y B ) t u !) s ly u : G e n t o e B t e a e u m s r o y t fl Prom iful G y: (gu Hands Attir ir Truck flattered, so thanks!

Most Most extremely e Summer 2k12!!

38l: more day Hands iggest Selec B o tion m e Gu [ of C y: ollege st Smile: ly!): Name B : ys on u g ( Zack YaheraRockstar ir ! a R H A As th e end Facial E YE Erin Mrs. President est Raymondof th OF TH e yea B R E : work y H lass ] SHOUL fl r is AC ing o quick Butter D BE n a v av c EDeTaEr Und f lyl ap B ia < e c D r o y p I really enjoy politics, so that should e L TEAC blank roach rclas specia S HOU s in

n

s emorie

Name

ready!”

“

“

”

”

S“ enio

r Cla ss 2 012

“

”

“

l issu g us ] S , the e ded Blue icate as w d to and W e wo the s hite uld lo enior maga ve to s. We zine is use ask t your [ h at yo a n swer u fillto take When s in ou E in the I look r HAV back [ on th , you magazine. n e m is fin s las al ye ar, I nderc rem eaemr beUr D when [ ] Fill in s! ] {did what Best } !!

Shoe Su 38 more days mm er 2k12!!

Style : Class Most Clown Intelle : ctual: Best M ost S Dres sed: chool Spirit Bigge : Cute st Tr st C uck ouple (gMemories u : y s only est S B e st Ha ): mile: ir: Name: Prom Attire st F Most acial down Hair -to-e (gu arth: ys on Selection of College Most al Bu ly!): Beau tterfl tiful y: Girl: Most Hands ome Guy: us, the Blue and White magazine is As the end of the year is quickly approaching on th is sh eet,

Thank

s! :)

work out well!”

smen Memories ,

[

Lance Williams- Pro-Athlete “With all the amazing athletes in our class I am absolutely honored and it will forever be a dream I maybe one Senior day willClass be able 2012 to fullfill.”

Jordan Reabold- Famous Author “It’s awesome to know that I’ll be remembered for doing something I love! I truly appreciate all the support I’veissue received myWeclassmates working on a very special dedicated tofrom the seniors. ask that you fill over in the ] SH O U L the this is just the icing on the blanks on this sheet,D asB weyears... would love to use your answers in our magazine.

E TE dercla ACHE ssme R OF n, yoThanks! :) cake. ” u HA THE VE t YEAR o tak ! e [ Anthony IacovielloTo Cure Cancer <fav clas When I look back on this final year, I remember when [ s [

Fill ins!

Best Shoe Style: Class Clown:

]

Over best.”

“I’ll try my ! ]

Most Intellectual: Most School Spirit: Cutest Couple:

”

] {did what}

Senior Class 2012

you ] HAVE

Prom Attire r!

Oveof Selection College

to ta ke [

Name:

HER

OF T HE Y EAR!

<fav class

Bobby Gilfert- Will live to 100 Ov

]

r! and White mag As the end of the year is quickly approaching us, the eBlue

working on a very special issue dedicated to the seniors. We ask that you

blanks on this sheet, as we would love to use your answers in our magaz Thanks! :)

Sal MerendaWinner of the When I look back on this final year, I remember whenLottery.. [ [

Fill ins!

Best Shoe Style: Class Clown: Best Dressed: Biggest Truck (guys only): Best Smile:

but sadly lost the ticket! ] Most Intellectual: Most School Spirit: Cutest Couple: Best Hair: Most down-to-earth: Most Beautiful Girl:

tamaqua blue & white. issue 4. senior edition.

13 Most Handsome Guy: Best Facial Hair (guys only!): Social Butterfly:

] {did w

oh the places you will go: “

Twelve years ago each of the senior class member entered kindergarten as individuals and throughout our school years we have mended to become a family of integrated, intelligent, and incomparable classmates. Although we have come so far, in what seems like a short period of time, we are now at the split in the end where we are all forced to part. However, as we go on our own separate ways, remember what Dr. Seuss had to say “Oh! The place you’ll go… You won’t lag behind, because you’ll have the speed. You’ll pass the whole gang and you’ll soon take the lead. Wherever you fly, you’ll be the best of the best. Wherever you go, you will top all the rest.

This was our class throughout all of our school years and this is what our class will be as we enter the world again as individuals. Remember to never forget where you came from because that is who you are today and, no matter the distance or road you take, you will always have a new place to come back to.

”

out of state: West Virginia University South East Lineman School North Carolina State University New York University 12

1 1 1 1

tamaqua blue & white. issue 4. senior edition.

Marines 1 Army 1 Navy 1 Airforce 1 Workforce 5

pa schools: Columbia County

Bloomsburg University

2

Luzerne County

Misericordia University

3

Schuylkill County

Lehigh Carbon Community College

68

Union County

Bucknell University

1

Luzerne County

Pennsylvania State University-Hazleton

4

Allegheny County

University of Pittsburgh

1

Indiana County

Indiana University of Pennsylvania

2

Centre County

Pennsylvania State University

3

Monroe County

East Stroudsburg University

2

Luzerne County

Kings College

1

York County

York College of Pennsylvania

2

Indiana County

University of Technical Institute

1

Lycoming County

Pennsylvania College of Technology

2

Berks County

Kutztown University

1

Snyder County

Susquehanna University

1

Lehigh County

Cedar Crest College

1

Union County

WyoTech

1

Berks County

Albright College

1

Philadelphia County University of Sciences

2

Philadelphia County Temple University

1

Chester County

Valley Forge Christian College

1

Lebanon County

Lebanon Valley College

2

Lancaster County

Lancaster Bible College

1

tamaqua blue & white. issue 4. senior edition.

15

careers: Well, Seniors, graduation is right around the corner. The days of football games, winter formals, school lunches and band concerts are coming quickly to a close, and a long summer of fun is on the horizon. Beyond that, college awaits, but what most of us forget is that part of life that happens after college, that part known as the real world. We will have our own lives, responsibilities, social circles, and yes, careers.

I recently went around our high school, asking 50 of our fellow classmates what they plan to do with the rest of their lives. The answers I received varied greatly, and some were much different than youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d expect. Of the people I asked, 16 of them want to pursue a career in the medical field, 6 want to be teachers, and 4 want to have careers in computer fields. Only 5 people were undecided. After that, the similarities end, and the types of careers range from the reserved pastors (Josh Miller and Josh Nemeth) to the crazy tattoo artist (Nicole Hazlett) from the scientific biochemist (Anthony Iacoviello) to the adventurous hunting guide (Kyle Boyer). In a few years down the road you could find yourself getting your car fixed by Brad Hosler or having your telephone lines repaired by Derek Drum and Sal Merenda. You may see the graphic works of art perfected by Alex Vincent and Caitlin Metzger, and you may see Matt Delborelloâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s face on a billboard advertising his lawyer service. You may visit the businesses of Emily Zancofsky or Robert Pratka, or you may find yourself being interviewed by Jenny Kabana. You may call Zak Yachera to help you install some new alternate energy equipment in your house, and you may call Wesley Bannan to help you balance your checking accounts. You may even be downloading the famous music of Ivan Munoz.

In a few years down the road, it may be impossible for you to live your daily lives without at least hearing these names mentioned, since they span every type of career in every walk of life. This graduating class is taking over the world day by day, and our respective careers will surely leave their marks on the world, just as our four year careers in this high school have made an impact on the entire community. We have always been a class of do-ers, of innovators and thinkers who are never satisfied with second best. This next few weeks may signal the end of a huge chapter of our lives, but the rest of the story is still left to be written.

16

tamaqua blue & white. issue 4. senior edition.

advice: Well people, it’s that time of the year. In only a few days we will take our final steps through these hallowed halls, seeing our teachers and peers perhaps for the last time in our lives. It has been a crazy four years of high school, and an even crazier twelve years for those of us who have known each other longer. We have made the best of memories along the way, and sometimes the worst of memories too. We have made our fair share of mistakes, and have become better people because of them. All along the way, we have met some awesome people whom we now call our friends. After thinking about all this, I asked myself a question that I’m sure all of you have asked yourselves at one point or another this year: what’s gonna happen with all my friends after high school? I mean, sure, there are still graduation parties, a summer of hanging out, and the road trips, but obviously when we go our separate ways, we won’t be able to see each other. A friendship is a lot harder to maintain when a round-trip of 6 hours divides people. It becomes more difficult to bond with a person when you can’t see their face. And let’s not even mention how hard it will be to maintain friendship in between all your “studying and homework”.

Almost everyone winds up forgetting their roots and making new friends, and it’s for this reason that many people say, “Your true friends are the ones you keep after high school.”

That all may sound depressing, but don’t despair just yet. With modern technology, you can talk to your friends every day, even when you are too far to physically see them. Many of us are staying at least in the same state, and there are always those long Christmas and Spring Breaks to see each other. And the entire prospect of college should force you to make every single day worth it. Every day closer to you parting ways with your friends should encourage you to make it that much better than the day before. There is no sense in breaking off your friendships now and then spending the summer alone, and there is no sense in growing distant now when you have every opportunity to be close. I’m not saying go do something stupid for the sake of keeping your friends around, but don’t sit around doing nothing all summer. No one ever looked back on their childhood and said, “Yeah I remember that summer I sat around relaxing the whole time. Those were fun times.” So this summer, whenever you find yourself sitting at home all alone, do whatever you can to spend time with your friends, because then even if you can’t keep them, you will have at least made your last days worth it.

tamaqua blue & white. issue 4. senior edition.

17

pomp and (disastrous) circumstance: Finally, it’s June 1st and we’re graduating! My heart is pounding faster than a/an (animal) and my (body part) is sweating profusely as I wait with my classmates. Already I notice (name of senior) tore his/her gown, and Mrs. Weinrich is going ballistic because (name of classmate) wore sneakers—this is going to be some night.

Before I know it, it’s time to walk toward the field. I look beside me at (your walking partner’s name) and give a nervous smile as we take our first steps down the hill to the beat of the band playing (obnoxious song). Just then, the sky turns (color), and an enormous UFO lands directly on the 50 yard line! One by one, (disgusting adjective) little aliens jump out of the (adjective) aircraft and kidnap (name of senior)! We all start (action verb ending in –ing) toward the creatures, but thankfully (name of teacher) manages to get there just in time to save our classmate! We all clap and (action verb) for joy while (adverb ending in –ly) making our way back to our seats.

Already, it’s time for the class president to give her speech, but something goes terribly wrong. “I can’t give my speech! She cries. “That (animal) took it!” Our heads dart in the direction she’s pointing, catching sight of the (body part) of a wild (previously mentioned animal)! There’s no use in chasing it now; it’s already heading toward (street in Tamaqua). We all panic—who is going to give the speech?! “I’ll do it!” cries (name of boy class clown).

He (action verb ending in s) toward the podium, note cards in hand—completely prepared. We listen intently for the next few minutes as he delivers a moving speech about (3 random objects). Even Mr. Toth is hysterically crying!

Now, time for our guest speaker. We’re all expecting to hear from (name of a senior’s parent), but what do you know, (name of celebrity) makes his/her way to the podium! The crowd goes nuts as I sit in complete awe. No one even listens to what’s being said—we’re all just snapping pictures and (action verb ending in –ing) like (type of zoo animals). (Name of senior girl) can no longer contain herself and insists on sprinting toward the celebrity speaker, (action verb ending in –ing) into the air, tackling him/her to the ground. “Please! Just an autograph!” she cries. But suddenly, her eyes grow as big as (large objects) in realization that this ‘celebrity’ is a fake! It’s actually (name of another senior’s parent)! Away he/she runs, screaming, “(phrase used on Jersey Shore)!”

Once everyone settles down, the ceremony continues. Diploma time! We patiently wait as each of our names is called, growing extremely (adjective) and (adjective) after the passing of just two minutes. “(Name of senior guy),” announces Mr. McCabe, as he makes his way down the aisle. I can’t help but notice how long his gown is.

Just as his arm reaches out for the diploma, his foot catches the hem of his (color) gown, and his (adjective) body hurls forward, landing face first into the podium. The audience gasps as he raises his head, revealing two missing front teeth! “I’m okay!” he exclaims, giving a thumbs up and (action verb ending in –ing) back to his seat, diploma in hand.

Finally, graduation has now come to an end. I’ll never forget the (adjective) time we had, throwing our (article of clothing- plural) into the air and singing the Alma Mater and (obnoxious song) together. Our parents told us how proud they were and that we all looked so (adjective) that night. I held my diploma proudly, knowing that I had just become one step closer to becoming a/an (occupation). Thanks, Tamaqua High, for getting me where I need to be! Looking back, I’ll always remember the most important things I’ve learned at Tamaqua High: conceal your feet when Mr. Toth walks in the classroom, sit upright with feet flat on the floor in Mrs. Weinrich’s lab chairs, and don’t expect to be allowed into the nurse’s office unless you’re a football player. Oh, and one more thing…Peace, love, and Guers.

18

tamaqua blue & white. issue 4. senior edition.

creatively fill in the blanks: Finally, it’s June 1st and we’re graduating! My heart is pounding faster than a/an (________) and my (_______) is sweating profusely as I wait with my classmates. Already I notice (name of senior) tore his/her gown, and Mrs. Weinrich is going ballistic because (_____________) wore sneakers—this is going to be some night.

Before I know it, it’s time to walk toward the field. I look beside me at (________________) and give a nervous smile as we take our first steps down the hill to the beat of the band playing (obnoxious song). Just then, the sky turns (________), and an enormous UFO lands directly on the 50 yard line! One by one, (______________) little aliens jump out of the (___________) aircraft and kidnap (_____________)! We all start (action verb ending in –ing) toward the creatures, but thankfully (name of teacher) manages to get there just in time to save our classmate! We all clap and (___________) for joy while (________________) making our way back to our seats.

Already, it’s time for the class president to give her speech, but something goes terribly wrong. “I can’t give my speech! She cries. “That (_________) took it!” Our heads dart in the direction she’s pointing, catching sight of the (________) of a wild (________________)! There’s no use in chasing it now; it’s already heading toward (street in Tamaqua). We all panic—who is going to give the speech?! “I’ll do it!” cries (______________). He (________________) toward the podium, note cards in hand—completely prepared. We listen intently for the next few minutes as he delivers a moving speech about (______________). Even Mr. Toth is hysterically crying!

Now, time for our guest speaker. We’re all expecting to hear from (_________________), but what do you know, (_____________) makes his/her way to the podium! The crowd goes nuts as I sit in complete awe. No one even listens to what’s being said—we’re all just snapping pictures and (_____________) like (______________). (___________) can no longer contain herself and insists on sprinting toward the celebrity speaker, (____________) into the air, tackling him/her to the ground. “Please! Just an autograph!” she cries. But suddenly, her eyes grow as big as (_________) in realization that this ‘celebrity’ is a fake! It’s actually (name of another senior’s parent)! Away he/she runs, screaming, “(_______________)!”

Once everyone settles down, the ceremony continues. Diploma time! We patiently wait as each of our names is called, growing extremely (_____________) and (_______________) after the passing of just two minutes. “(_______________________),” announces Mr. McCabe, as he makes his way down the aisle. I can’t help but notice how long his gown is. Just as his arm reaches out for the diploma, his foot catches the hem of his (_________) gown, and his (___________) body hurls forward, landing face first into the podium. The audience gasps as he raises his head, revealing two missing front teeth! “I’m okay!” he exclaims, giving a thumbs up and (action verb ending in –ing) back to his seat, diploma in hand.

Finally, graduation has now come to an end. I’ll never forget the (___________) time we had, throwing our (______________) into the air and singing the Alma Mater and (______________) together. Our parents told us how proud they were and that we all looked so (___________) that night. I held my diploma proudly, knowing that I had just become one step closer to becoming a/an (_____________). Thanks, Tamaqua High, for getting me where I need to be! Looking back, I’ll always remember the most important things I’ve learned at Tamaqua High: conceal your feet when Mr. Toth walks in the classroom, sit upright with feet flat on the floor in Mrs. Weinrich’s lab chairs, and don’t expect to be allowed into the nurse’s office unless you’re a football player. Oh, and one more thing…Peace, love, and Guers. tamaqua blue & white. issue 4. senior edition.

19

senior year:

September 2011 This year’s small group of devoted, hardworking seniors pulled together to earn the most money ever made in one night at a football game.

October 2011 Our family lost a classmate and friend but gained an angel.

20

October 2011 The band, cheerleaders, and homecoming candidates paraded through the town and ended at the high school with a tailgate and dj.

October 2011 After many years of decorating proved fruitless, the seniors won the hearts of everyone with their “Spook the Spartans” theme.

October 2011 The candidate’s theme this year was “Raiders Think They Can Dance,” and they were given dance themes of Hollywood, ballroom, Bollywood, country, and hip hop.

As the Blue Raiders took on the Spartans, the girls were escorted down the field by their partners during halftime. Chey Bates and Peter Conforti were crowned as the king and queen.

tamaqua blue & white. issue 4. senior edition.

November 2011 The seniors were victorious over the sophomores in the first year of powder puff and advanced to the final game.

October 2011 Two of our seniors, Amber Carroll and Kelsey Patrick, made it to states for cross country.

November 2011 After 12 hours of decorating and months of planning, the girls arrived in sparkling gowns and the guys in their tuxes to dance the night away.

November 2011 The seniors left their mark in front of the school during the whitewash.

January 2012 Five passionate seniors devoted their talent and creativity to help resurrect the old Blue and White newspaper to the magazine it is today.

November 2011 The Blue Raiders went into a double overtime with Catasaqua only to come out victorious and move onto the final game of the season.

November 2011 A bonfire was held at Rabbit Run where the school and community came together to celebrate one of the final Friday night football games.

May 2012 The seniors danced the night away at Penn’s Peak on their prom night. Memories were made as friends spent one of their final nights altogether as a class.

June 1st, 2012 Here’s to the memories, the laughs, the great times we’ve had. ...We’re graduating!

tamaqua blue & white. issue 4. senior edition.

21

then & now:

Congra Class o

22

tamaqua blue & white. issue 4. senior edition.

atulations of 2012!

tamaqua blue & white. issue 4. senior edition.

23

Thank you!

We would like to thank the students, faculty, staff, and administration for supporting us throughout this exhilarating project. Without our loyal readers, we would be nothing. The support that we have gotten is simply incredible and we cannot thank each and every one of you enough.

Congratulations to the Class of 2012. Enjoy your summer. We are very excited to embark on a whole new year of issues in September!

-The Blue & White Crew

A Tribute to Miss Schmauch!

How many of you can honestly say that you know someone who would bend over back for you no matter what the task? Miss Schmauch is your teacher! Back in October when the magazine went into planning stage, she had not the slightest clue what she was getting herself into. Miss Schmauch donates her time and effort each and every day to help improve the magazine.

We cannot thank you enough, Miss Schmauch, we really canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t. What you do is simply incredible. It takes one special teacher to donate time out of their busy, busy schedule to cater to the needs of 11 high schoolers trying to run a magazine. For this, we thank you a million times over. You not only have changed our lives by making our dreams become a reality, but youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve changed our school.

Love,

Miss Schmauch & Emily Zancofsky at the Dance Marathon held this February.