The ABINGTONIAN - Abington School District

The ABINGTONIAN
Abington Senior High School, Abington, PA, 19001
December 2012
Forget Ghosts, We Have Vive la France...in
Eagles Among Us
America
By: Christine Palazzolo
By: Julianne Lowenstein
Neil Armstrong, President Gerald
Ford, Steven Spielberg, and Shane
Victorino—each name is one that
should stand out right away. All of
these individuals have most certainly
made a name for themselves, and
yet they all share one common
accomplishment. These individuals,
along with six current seniors at
Abington Senior High School, are
National Eagle Scouts. It is an honor
not always recognized, but it should
not go by unnoticed. Eagle Scout is
the highest rank in the Boy Scouts of America program. It requires a
Scout to obtain twenty-one merit badges, demonstrate moral integrity
and leadership under the Boy Scout Oath, organize and manage a major
service project, and be fully reviewed by a Council. As previously
mentioned, six seniors have earned this highly prestigious award so
far this year, including Tom and Jack Higgins, Quincy Morgan, Dan
Shea, Stephen Costello, and Isaac McDermott. All six men have
worked extremely hard to get up to this point and now deserve the
acknowledgment. When asked what the most challenging part of
earning Eagle was, the boys responded:
Everyone was gathered outside the school waiting anxiously for the
arrival of his or her French exchange student. Each host held a sign,
indicating his or her partner’s name and soon the area was flooded with
hugs and the traditional French greeting – kisses on the cheek. After
the introduction the students got settled at their new homes and the
adventure began.
Jack Higgins: “The hardest part on the path to Eagle was having to
switch troops due to a clash between myself and the scout master.”
Isaac McDermott: “Getting enough motivation to get the work done.
Even though I finished up the work I needed to do with ample time to
spare, I still felt that I kept putting things off too much. Also, I went
through two ideas for my service project before I found one that was
good enough.”
Stephen Costello: “The hardest part was the organization and choosing
a charity to work with.”
When asked the following, “What has been the most rewarding aspect
of earning Eagle?”, Morgan, Shea, and T. Higgins answered accordingly:
Quincy Morgan: “For me, simply having something to show for seven
years of dedication to something is the greatest award.”
Dan Shea: “I had a lot of great experiences during this whole journey;
that’s been very rewarding.”
Tom Higgins: “The most rewarding part has been seeing my hard work
become something after so
long.”
Obtaining Eagle is not
easily achieved. In fact, only
2% of all boy scouts end up
reaching it, because you only
have until you are eighteen
years of age. These six
seniors have gone above and
beyond. They have reached
the pinnacle of scouting
and will be celebrating in the following months to come. However,
these few guys are not alone in the Abington School District. There
are a few other, seniors Mark Bryson and Alex Pritz, who are still very
close to receiving the award. Hopefully you will see their names along
with some others recognized in an upcoming Abingtonian issue. In the
meantime, congratulations to all those who have been successful thus
far!
In France, they usually just drink juice for breakfast, and so the
students mostly stuck to something small, such as bread with Nutella,
while some got to try one of America’s favorites, peanut butter. While
in America, eating eggs and bacon for breakfast is natural, it is almost
unheard of in France. Other foods they tried for the first time include
macaroni and cheese, Philadelphia’s famous cheese steaks, bagels, and
Reese’s peanut butter cups.
Besides trying new foods, the Frenchies also got to attend plenty
of different cultural activities, such as a traditional football game – go
Ghosts! In France, they do not have sports teams at school, just the
community leagues; however, their typical sports include basketball,
soccer, squash, rock climbing, and ping pong.
The students also got to experience something that we take for
granted here – Halloween! After the threat of “Frankenstorm” subsided,
we all got to enjoy a (postponed) Halloween, and of course, received
loads of candy.
Think that’s weird? Wait until you hear about the school day. The
school week in France consists of no school on Wednesday, but a half
day on Saturday mornings. Also, instead of eating lunch at school, they
get a two hour break from 12:00-2:00 to go home and eat. However, the
school day normally lasts much longer than ours and they don’t get out
until 5:00 pm.
Now, let me bet, you think Abington’s rules are ridiculous and that
the cell phone rule is too strict? Well, in France, if you are caught with
your cell phone in school, you don’t get it back for two or three weeks.
Also, if you stand up in class, that calls for immediate punishment. Not
so tough here anymore, huh?
While it was rough at some points, this experience was a great
learning opportunity for everyone. Some of the exchange students
spoke a lot of English, but others, like mine, spoke it very minimally. So,
not only did my exchange student get to work on his English, but I also
got to work on my French! Though at first it was nearly impossible to
comprehend his accent, by the end, it got much easier, and we learned
how to communicate. Overall, the trip was enlightening and beneficial
to both cultures.
Inside This Issue:
5 Unheard Holiday Songs..........p. 2
B&B Movies.................................p. 3
“Heard This Month”....................p. 3
Ugly Christmas Sweaters...........p. 4
Point/Counterpoint....................p. 5
New Year’s Resolutions...............p. 6
Star Wars......................................p. 6
Frankenstorm..............................p. 7
Football Recap.............................p. 8
A
s
h
s
The Abingtonian
December 2012
Page 2
FEATURES
Creative Writing Club
Presents:
Dancing Afternoon
By: Madison Bradley
Dawn
piercing over the
underbelly of the sky
Irony air swilling through the silvery grass
I just lay there, transfixed in the billowing shape-shifters
Foggy gray twirls around the tree in a uniform dance
The performance only for me to watch
Silent, I cannot lie in the exposed truth of this tranquil moment
Ever smiling in summer’s sincerity
Last day, recall
Those expensive moments
Enjoying the Winter
Apocalypse
By: Rachel Maizel
After the mild winter last year, it’s safe to say that we have all
become a little placated and unused to the harsh cold that this season
generally entails. First came denial: typically unreliable weatherforecasters helped us all ignore the plummeting temperatures. Next
came the full-hearted belief that the snow, so recently falling from the
sky, was simply an illusion, a mirage that would disappear with a blink
of the eyes. Walks home in the cold flurries only reinforced the mood.
Between shivering intakes of breath, I found myself wondering when
we stopped enjoying the snow that we used to so eagerly anticipate,
hope, and wish for. At what point did waiting, none too patiently, for
the snow to reach a satisfactory depth become childish naïveté? The
fact of the matter is, though we cannot prevent aging, we never actually
have to grow up. Full-scale snowball warfare has not dulled over the
years, especially if the snow is thick enough to build the perfect fort.
While perhaps cocoa and marshmallows have lost their charm in
favor of coffee, there is no reason why the same childhood tradition of
curling up in the windowsill to observe the snowfall cannot be carried
out. In short, it is time that teenagers reconnect with the winter season.
Embrace it, because if the past month has been any indication of what
is to come, then we are all in it for the long haul so why not enjoy
ourselves.
5 Holiday Cover Songs
You’ve Never Heard
By: Leah McLaughlin
For all of you who are reading this saying, “I love holiday
music!” I can promise these are not the typical B101 December songs
your ears are so finely attuned to. For the rest of you who hate the
cliched jingles (like myself), these songs may give you a reason to
get into the holiday spirit. So what makes me credible? Although I
personally believe I have great taste in music, knowing that some
people may not agree, these artists were chosen for their versatility
and creativity, and represent drastically different genres, so there’s a
little something for everyone.
“It Came Upon A Midnight Clear” – Sixpence None the Richer.
This beautiful take on a Christmas classic tweaks the song with a
distinctive rhythmic guitar and simplistic Indie melody line. Don’t
let this deter you, simplistic does not mean boring. The precision and
clean cut vocals are actually a breath of fresh air when compared to
the riffing technique many popular singers use. Leigh Nash’s angelic
voice mimics the lyrics wonderfully and is soothing enough to rock
even the most energetic Christmas anticipators into a deep slumber.
“Punk Rock Chanukah Song” – Yidcore. All self-respecting, kosherkeeping, menorah-lighting Jews should be familiar with Adam
Sandler’s brilliantly witty creation, The Chanukah Song. The Punk
Rock Chanukah Song maintains Sandler’s original melody and
structure, but scraps the A-List celebrities for Punk musicians, and the
acoustic guitar for an electric. Right from the gate, the Aussie punk
band means business. The song opens with a guitar solo so powerful
it could blow your speakers, even when they’re not set to volume 11
(Spinal Tap, anyone?).
“Happy X-mas (War is Over)” – Maroon 5. Let’s get one thing
straight: Adam Levine does have the voice of a very tattooed
angel, but he is not John Lennon. Then again, the band should be
congratulated for having the chutzpah to cover arguably the most
famous man in music. Maroon 5 slows down the original and
exchanges an acoustic guitar for a piano and some light violin and
cello accents throughout the song. Levine’s effortless vocals make the
listener feel at ease throughout the duration of the piece. The message
of this song isn’t too shabby, either.
“Carol of The Bells” – August Burns Red. Attention all metal heads:
this is the song for you! Although ABR’s lyric songs are impressive,
it is their instrumental jams that really show off just how good they
are at their craft. This song is no exception. Their version of this
holiday classic brilliantly opens with the traditional bells chiming,
and spontaneously takes off into an electric chorus of arpeggios and
percussive brilliance.
“I Saw Mummy Kissing
Santa Claus” – Amy
Winehouse. Drug addiction
aside, Amy Winehouse
was a brilliant singer.
Her powerful vocals lend
themselves perfectly to
this song and show a
different take on the typical
“cutesie” versions of this
holiday favorite. Her jazzy
undertones to the fun
upbeat Christmas song are
enough to make anyone
dance, and get into the holiday spirit.
The Abingtonian
December 2012
Page 3
FEATURES
B&B Movies!
“Heard This Month”
By: Ryan Breen and Brendan Malone
By: Halana Dash
Welcome to B&B Movies! Each month, Brendan and Breen
will discuss great movies that you might have missed. This month,
in preparation for Winter break, we are talking about great Holiday
Movies. Gather round the hearth, and string up mistletoe – here are
our picks for gems of the Holiday genre.
There’s nothing like an inspirational quote or two to add a smile to
someone’s face. Books and websites are full of ‘em – but why look
further than your own classroom? Every day teachers shout out tons
of funny quips and serious advice – all we students have to do is listen.
Here are some candid quotes from the last month that have made
somebody smile!
Ryan’s Picks:
The Snowman (1986)
This is one powerful little movie. Hand drawn and silent,
animated in a distinct and beautiful style, the simple story is about
a boy who wakes to find his house and the surrounding countryside
blanketed in snow. He builds a snowman, and together the two journey
(in a dream?) through the house, laughing and playing. They end up
flying together to the North Pole, and even watching it now I was swept
away by the magic. It is a melancholy and penetrating examination
of childhood spirit, and eventual loss of innocence. It is also a bit of a
downer, but definitely worth checking out, considering it is half an hour
and you can watch it on Youtube.
Batman Returns (1992)
Before you say it, I know this is not really a Christmas movie
– but Batman Returns is saturated in snow and all things Santa. The
plot follows Batman’s attempt to thwart the Penguin from taking over
Gotham City, but there is a wonderful subtext supplied by Max Shreck.
Shreck, played by Christopher Walken, is a department store mogul
who uses his influence to boost the evil Penguin’s political reputation.
He promotes the ideals of consumerism and gift giving onto the masses,
and his character is a subtle satire of the materialistic bend of modern
Christmas. In the end Batman takes him down and the good guys win,
but it’s nice to see a movie that promotes the message of the Holidays
without forcing it down your throat. Coupled with Tim Burton’s
signature aesthetic, and a host of whacky Batman villains, it’s Christmas
and crime fighting, the best of both worlds.
Brendan’s Picks:
Emmet Otter’s Jug-Band Christmas (1977)
Adapted from the children’s book of the same name by Muppets
creator Jim Henson, this fifty-minute HBO special includes all the
hallmarks of Henson’s work, from a gentle sense of humor to the
sense of perfectionism. Using elements from The Gift of the Magi, the
special tells the story of the titular otter and his mother attempting to
win the same talent contest so they can afford a Christmas present for
each other. In as little as fifty minutes Henson and company create a
unique blend of family sensibilities against the beautifully-rendered
folky setting. The writing is top-notch, and able to turn even the oddest
of moments into the most sentimental scenes. Featuring a lively score
by songwriter Paul Williams (whose work with the Henson Company
would continue, eventually resulting in an Oscar nomination for The
Muppet Movie’s “Rainbow Connection”), Emmet Otter’s Jug-Band
Christmas is both heartwarming and hilarious, and deserves to be the
perennial holiday favorite.
Hannah and Her Sisters (1986)
One of the first films that would mark Woody Allen’s signature
style, this movie follows a family of three sisters (Mia Farrow, Dianne
Wiest and Barbara Hershey), and the men with whom they are involved.
Borrowing its structure from Swedish director Ingmar Bergman’s
excellent 1982 film Fanny & Alexander, the film showcases the family
at three different Thanksgivings, each representing a different theme.
Combining the ribald comedy of most of Allen’s earlier material with
more dramatic storylines, Allen effortlessly seams multiple storylines
together in his Oscar winning script. The acting is terrific, with Dianne
Wiest and Michael Caine both winning Oscars for their performances
as the unsuccessful sister in a family full of actresses and the husband
who has an affair with his sister-in-law, respectively. The wonderful
script combined with such great acting makes Hannah and Her Sisters a
standout in the prolific director’s career.
“Pretty much everyone in the 70’s was a hippie.”
-
Ms. Pyle (heard by Paul Sanchez)
“I can’t chew and teach gum.”
Mr. Zanetti (heard by Lauren Berino)
“Your calculus textbook is like the Harry Potter series. Chapter 5 is
the Goblet of Fire. It’s the first dark one, and very anticipated.”
- Mr. Tinney (heard by Mike Tershakovec)
“We can’t feed cows cows. That’s bad.”
- Mr. Cragle (heard by Susan Braverman)
Stylish Student of
the Month
By: Alex Rosenbaum
The Stylish Student of the Month for December is Dasaan
McCrimmon, an 11th grade student who mixes and matches for
his own unique style. In the picture, Dasaan is wearing a knit H&M
cardigan, TJ Maxx shirt, Polo pants, and Diesel shoes. He says he tries
not to shop at well-known stores so he can stay
original and true to his personal style. Dasaan is
definitely doing something right! December is
the month to layer up; boys and girls alike can
take a nod from Dasaan and try out a cozy knit
cardigan; on top of anything it adds something
extra to every look and, not to mention, it
will keep you nice and warm throughout this
winter season. Stores like Forever 21 and Urban
Outfitters have great selections for the perfect
cozy sweater of your choice, and if you’re like
Dasaan, who by the way has never been to an
Urban Outfitters before, try the thrift store. You
are bound to find something original that will
fit your personal style, and the best part is you
won’t see your clone walking around the halls!
Another thing to look out for this
season is a neutral pallet. Winter weather calls
for bundles of neutrals and earth tones. Winter
is the best time to try out this color scheme
because of the many layers needed in the nippy
winter air. Let your layers do all of the work your summer brights
would do normally. But make sure not to lose your holiday spirit! Try
ironic t-shirts or anything as simple and cool as Dasaan’s bird shirt to
liven up your outfits. And don’t forget the holidays are on their way;
no one is too cool for an ugly Christmas sweater, the more outrageous
the better! Have fun with all this season has to offer and always be
open to trying new things. Maybe you’ll be the next stylish student of
the month – stay tuned!
The Abingtonian
December 2012
Page 4
FEATURES
The Master
A Film Review
By: Tom Higgins
The disturbing opening to Paul Thomas Anderson’s film The
Master introduces the troubled American sailor, Freddie Quell, played
by Joaquin Phoenix. Freddie is a deranged alcoholic who, following
World War Two, divides his time between making hooch and drifting
from one odd job to the next. When one of his “beverages” kills a
coworker, Quell is forced to run yet again. His life takes a strange
turn, however, as he finds his way to the yacht of Lancaster Dodd,
played by Philip Seymour Hoffman, who tells Freddie: “I am a writer,
a doctor, a nuclear physicist, a theoretical philosopher... but above
all I am a man. A hopelessly inquisitive man, just like you.” The
two characters form a bond, mainly strengthened by their common
affinity for alcohol. Hoffman’s character is the leader and founder of a
burgeoning movement vaguely named “The Cause.” Many critics and
viewers believe, while denied by Anderson, that this cult was meant
to be a representation of Scientology, and Lancaster Dodd a stand-in
for founder L. Ron Hubbard. If this were the case, many similarities
can be drawn between the two, including the fact that both groups
were founded in the same year – 1950. Anderson has refuted these
comparisons, saying, “It’s a World War II drama. It’s about a drifter after
World War II.”
However, if there is one thing that The Master calls for, it is
speculation. The movie is not exactly vague, but that does not mean
that Anderson’s drama is at all times specific either. In fact, the lack of
specificity is a major motif in the film. It mirrors the murkiness that
pervades when “The Cause” is explained, and allows some personal
thought from the viewer. What is most interesting about the film is not
the study of the cult or its teachings; rather it is the intense character
study The Master provides. The juxtaposition of the inherent loser
Quell with the manipulative but brilliant Dodd creates a true conflict.
No man can control Freddie Quell, not even himself. To Dodd, Quell
would be the perfect addition to “The Cause” – a violent enforcer of
sorts. Converting and controlling Quell is Lancaster Dodd’s obsession,
and in the end, his greatest failure. Overall, The Master is an artistic
foray into the human mind and its capability to serve or be set free.
For Quell, it is his insanity that makes him free, and begs the viewer
to wonder what truly defines freedom. Anderson’s work is at times
disturbing and even confusing, but for the dedicated and curious
viewer, The Master will not fail to please.
WORDLINK
By: Halana Dash
Hey word puzzle lovers! Frustrated with life? Well, sit back, relax, and
fill out a wordlink. You play by creating a chain of compound words
from the first word all the way to the last. The first and second word
link to make a compound word, like in this example: Guitar and string
connect to make guitar string, string links with band to make string
band, and band and camp link to form band camp. Some of the words
even have letters filled in to help you out!
Think you solved the puzzle? Print your name at the bottom, cut out
your completed wordlink, and drop it off at the Wordlink box sitting on
the Abingtonian box in the library. YOU WILL BE ENTERED INTO
A DRAWING TO WIN A PRIZE! Winners will be announced on the
afternoon announcements! Best of luck!
WHITE
_H_____A_
S___Y
_O__
_T___
FR___
P____
____G
SET
NAME:____________________
On the First Day of Christmas,
All I Got Was This Lousy Sweater
By: Sabrina Farmer
The minute the clock strikes midnight on Black Friday, change happens. All at once, stores break out
special holiday deals and put up magnificent Christmas trees and intricately displayed Menorahs, all in the
hope of enticing shoppers. Some of the consequences of the most important shopping day of the year, aside
from a sudden increase in aggression from typically mild-mannered mothers, are Christmas Sweaters. Yes,
these scratchy, large, and often hideous sweaters have their origin in Black Friday, when misguided uncles and
substitute teachers can find cheap Christmas sweaters in abundance. After several years, sometimes decades, of
office holiday parties, these relatives eventually bequeath their prized pullovers to us teenagers.
At first, we greet this strange item with disdain. Instead of money, we receive this outrageous sweater that
will most likely sit in the back of our closet with the skateboard that hasn’t been touched since seventh grade.
That is, until we discover irony. Oh, irony, how you have changed our outlook on life. Now, we can wear our treeadorned, bedazzled, glow in the dark sweaters with pride. No longer will it only be worn begrudgingly at family
functions, it will be blazoned across our chests at least 25 times before the month of December is over. There are
even parties where people wear the ugliest Christmas sweater they own. As long as it is being worn with a slight
smirk and a heavy dose of self-awareness, enjoy the time you have with your Christmas sweater. Pretty soon,
you’ll be giving it to some other condescending teen.
The Abingtonian December 2012
Page 5
EDITORIALS
Letter From the Co-Editors
Dear Beloved Abingtonian Readers,
While you find yourselves sipping steamy hot cocoa
during the winter break, feel free to snuggle up to our newest
issue. We do not want you missing Abington too much over the
break!
The workload is starting to pile up, and the grueling winter months are in full swing. We encourage you to use the
paper as a place to let off some steam. Vent about midterms.
Check out new activities. Discover unknown music. The paper
is always here for the student voice.
Even though the school year is almost halfway over,
(CLASS OF 2013!!!) we are still open to new ideas for the paper.
Feel free to contact either of us at any time with any suggestions, original work, or questions. Even if you have not contributed anything yet this year, come out to our next meeting on
THURSDAY, JANUARY 3rd in room 240! And as always, there
will be snacks.
Wishing you an absolutely wonderful holiday season,
Halana & Christine
MAKE YOUR
VOICE
HEARD!
WRITE FOR
THE PAPER!
COME TO OUR
NEXT MEETING
ON THURSDAY,
JANUARY 3RD,
IN ROOM 240
Are YOU an artist or even a doodler??
Submit your own photo or cartoon next month!
THE SPECTRE IS BACK!
Abington Senior High School’s Literary Magazine
will be printed in the Spring, and you can be published in it!
Any and all students can submit the following:
POETRY
ART
PHOTOGRAPHY
SHORT STORIES (700 words max.)
Submit your work to your English teacher or place it in the
submission box located in the Library. Each submission must be
typed and have your name, grade, and English teacher on it.
Submit as much as you like!
The Abingtonian
December 2012
EDITORIALS
Star Wars Episode VII: The
Mouse Ends the Legacy
By Andrew Schmidt
Since its first production with extravagant effects and intense
battle scenes, Star Wars has made an impact on movie history as
the series that spawned the sci-fi/action film department. Recently,
however, George Lucas, the man behind Star Wars, has done something
that will put the series to rest. In the past year, Lucas sold Star Wars
to Disney for four billion dollars. I do not think Lucas realizes what
he has done; he sold a franchise that has had a history of captivating
audiences with awesome violent explosions and fights to a company
that specializes in making animals sing. I love all of the classic films that
Disney has produced, especially in the 90’s, but now that they own Star
Wars (signed for three films already), the series will be more like the
Star End of Wars. When they start putting Leia in those little Disney
Princess coloring books that my five-year old sister plays with, that is
where I really start drawing the line. Luckily, they have not taken it that
far yet, but who knows what will happen. When I go to Regal, AMC,
or any other movie house to see a Star Wars movie, I do not want to
see the little Pixar Lamp do its little stomp on the “I.” No, I want to be
shown an epic two hours of space combat and warfare. Instead of the
vivid dialogue and trademark Yoda speeches that have been so praised
in previous Star Wars films, there will, inevitably, be singing. There
has to be singing. There have hardly been any Disney movies that have
not included characters breaking out in random song. Remember
the Disney intro with Cinderella’s castle in Disney World--where the
star goes over it and the Disney logo suddenly appears from thin air?
That star will probably be changed to a light saber and the Millennium
Falcon will take the place of Cinderella’s crib. Oh, but wait, light sabers,
which could possibly harm people,
may not be suitable for a “G”-rated
audience, so forget those. I would
not be extremely surprised if a riot
breaks out in Hollywood after the
release of Disney’s first Star Wars
film. The once, prodigious series
is going to, in simplest terms,
die, at least to us huge fans. Next
thing we know, there is going to
be a huge line of small children
in every major movie theater in the US of A waiting to see STAR
WARS! Honestly, there is no way of finding out the full extent to which
Disney will demolish the series until their initial adaption is released.
They could dress Chewbacca up in a tuxedo, make Yoda into a Jiminy
Cricket-type figure--basically do anything they want to make this into
a children’s film because that is what they do. RIP Star Wars: It was
killed by a gang of censoring freaks who seem to have a preposterous
obsession with a mouse named Mickey.
Page 6
What Teaching
Has Taught Me
By: Johanna Gruber
As full time students in high school, each and every one of us is
accustomed to lectures, lessons, and assignments delivered by teachers.
Since that very first day of kindergarten, when we were ripped from our
parents’ loving arms and placed in a child-proofed prison brimming
with backpacks and picture books, conventional assertions regarding
teachers have been drilled into our minds. The liaison between student
and teacher too often remains flat and
expressionless. While good teachers
are, of course, expected to pass on
their scholarly knowledge of American
history and complex calculus
theorems, the title carries further
responsibility. We often fail to see the
ways that our teachers, through their
lectures and lessons and assignments,
impact and encourage us in the most
subtle of ways. This failure in turn
prevents us from realizing that we, too, have the power to teach, and
ultimately influence, those around us.
After school, you will often find me working my job at a local
sewing and knitting shop. For the most part, I spend my time teaching
sewing lessons. When I assumed the role of instructor, I was not sure
what to expect—I had never taught or tutored anyone in any subject,
and was not sure how to best explain and express myself. I soon found
out that my uncertainties were unneeded. My students, some just a year
or two shy of my age, soon began asking with genuine awe, “How’d you
get so good at sewing?”
This certainly came as a shock to me. By no means do I consider
myself a professional seamstress—so why are the girls so rapt by my
lessons? Because I reach out. I encourage. I present my knowledge not
only with clarity, like any able teacher should, but with enthusiasm and
dedication. I am always sure to remind my students of the importance
of patience, precision, and poise—this advice inevitably extends not
only to their crafting endeavors, but to all facets of their lives.
Thus despite my initial hesitancy towards assuming the role of
teacher, I too have learned from the experience. I believe that everyone
has a teacher’s tendency inside them—everyone has something to offer,
something to pass on. My knowledge seemed insubstantial to me,
but to a class full of eager, untrained, budding seamstresses, it was
boundless. So go out and tutor, teach, mentor, or coach--your abilities
are meaningful.
New Year’s Resolutions:
Do They Really Mean a New You?
By Tia Barnhardt
Tis’ the season for New Years resolutions, what will be on your list? From eating healthier, ending procrastinating, studying harder for better
SAT scores, finding a job, or just being a better friend, the resolution lists might never end. However, when the New Year arrives, nothing is different;
it is just the same old song and dance I did last year. Like all people, I expect my resolution to just come to me, but I have learned it does not work that
way. Every year it is the same thing--I build even higher expectations for myself than the last year but as usual, zero things are accomplished that year
except breathing and existing. If you are like me and you just expect change to happen by doing nothing, then stop trying to make it happen because
it will never happen. Making a resolution list is as easy as saying “I’ll do better next marking period.” Putting in just a little bit more effort will not give
you 100% better results. Rather, you need to put in the effort to get the results desire. If you want your New Year’s resolution to become a reality, then
you have to get off your behind and just do it because no one else can do it for you. This year, do not be a part of the New Year’s Resolution propaganda
and make a big deal out of nothing changing; instead, be the change you want to see. Your resolution will not come served on a silver platter within a
day. It may take time and a lot of work, but no one said it will be easy. So get inspired and stay motivated, remember that the 1,000 mile journey begins
with one step.
The Abingtonian
December 2012
EDITORIALS
Page 7
Frankenstorm:
The New Norm?
By: Aleksandra Cvetković
Those of us who were lucky enough to retain electricity throughout
the brunt of Hurricane Sandy certainly welcomed the five-day respite from
schoolwork and tests. The majority of people within the storm’s reach,
however, did not share the enthusiasm. Hurricane Sandy—aptly nicknamed
“Frankenstorm”—ravaged several Caribbean islands, American states, and
parts of Canada as it made its way up the Eastern Coast of North America in
the last week of October. Eight million Americans lost power. One hundred
and eighty people—approximately 70 from the Caribbean and 110 from
the United States—were found dead. New York City was particularly hard
hit; the state’s death toll reached 48 and its subway system was shut down
due to excessive flooding. The most recent appraisals of Sandy’s destruction estimate $60+ billion in damages. Yet, perhaps Sandy’s implications
are a greater cause for concern than her price tag. The general consensus among meteorologists and climatologists alike is that climate change
contributed to the magnitude of Hurricane Sandy’s destructiveness. Climate change is the name for the changes taking place in our environment
as a result of a warming atmosphere. Greenhouse gases trap heat in the atmosphere, making life on Earth possible. However, humans, largely
through the burning of fossil fuels, have released far too much of these gases in recent years, thus dangerously amplifying the greenhouse effect.
Scientists have long foreseen “super storms” and other extreme weather as a result of climate change. Sandy is a perfect manifestation of their
predictions. Due to climate change, our oceans and atmosphere are a degree Celsius warmer than they were 100 years ago. The consequences are
twofold; hurricane season is prolonged, increasing the likelihood of a super storm, and hurricanes gain more kinetic energy, causing winds to pick
up speed. Rising sea levels also contributed to Sandy’s intensity. Higher temperatures have begun melting ice caps and glaciers, causing sea levels
globally to rise an average of 12 inches in the last 100 years alone. We can expect an increase three times as great over the next century. When sea
levels rise, so does the potential for a hurricane’s destruction. This factor, combined with the fact that our warmed atmosphere can retain 5-7%
more water vapor, led to Sandy’s hazardous floods.
Some scientists question whether or not climate change caused Hurricane Sandy. They argue that our records of weather do not go
back far enough to support these claims. These scientists’ assertions are correct to some extent; Sandy would have happened anyway. But, quite
frankly, we cannot afford to discuss what role climate change played in Sandy anymore. If we do not act to slow the effects of climate change soon,
Frankenstorm could become the norm. Let’s hope that it doesn’t take another hurricane like Sandy to make everyone appreciate the seriousness of
the implications of a changing climate.
An Underrated Album
By: Isaac McDermott
“On this page, you see a little girl giggling at a hippopotamus. I wonder why?”
The band Incubus has been a prominent figure in the alternative rock scene for the past decade. Since their 1999 album, Make Yourself,
which shot them into stardom with hits such as “Pardon Me,” “Stellar,” and especially “Drive,” Incubus has captivated many fans worldwide. Their
unique style combines many different genres of music, including rock, pop, jazz, metal, techno, and hip-hop, combined with the witty lyrics of
frontman Brandon Boyd. Four albums later, Incubus has been consistent with their style, and continues to be a pioneer in alternative music.
Most people, however, fail to recognize Incubus’s early work. Before they catapulted onto the music scene, Incubus was a small funk rock
band that started when its members, singer Brandon Boyd, guitarist Mike Eizinger, bassist Alex “Dirk Lance” Katunich, turntablist DJ Lyfe, and
drummer Jose Pasillas, were only in tenth grade. Their first record, Fungus Amongus, was self-released, and after a few years of touring, the band
was finally signed to Epic Records. They soon headed back into the studio to record their second album, S.C.I.E.N.C.E.
S.C.I.E.N.C.E. is the band’s first effort that shows their eclectic style, and they bring it out
in a sort of “controlled mayhem” that dominates the entire album. From the opening note in
“Redefine” to the ending studio outtake in “Calgone”, each member of the band is at the top of
their game 110% of the time. Every single track on the album is a stroke of pure genius, one way
or another.
“Redefine” kicks off the album with a bang, featuring heavy guitar work, trippy rapping, and
a bodacious bass solo from Dirk. The heavy riffing continues into “Vitamin”, where DJ Lyfe’s
turntable skills are crucial to the frantic nature of the song, and the energy of the album
climaxes in “New Skin.” With “Idiot Box”, the tone softens a tad, and Brandon’s vocal work has
an opportunity to really surface. “Magic Medicine,” a little interlude by DJ Lyfe, is a wacky break
to the madness of the album before hits such as “A Certain Shade of Green,” “Deep Inside,” and
“Calgone.”
Although the album was not that popular compared to the band’s later work, it did sell half
a million copies upon its release. Soon after the album came out, DJ Lyfe quit the band, while
Dirk Lance stayed on until after the acclaimed Morning View was released. Although their
replacements have proven to be solid, the departure of these two members can be “heard” in the
band’s subsequent work, which turned away from their funk roots.
S.C.I.E.N.C.E. truly defines the mix of genres that Incubus is known for. Even today, hardcore
fans call S.C.I.E.N.C.E. the band’s finest work, and one that cannot be matched by the band to this
day. Incubus’s early offering has proven to be an underrated gem, and one that is able to appeal to many different fans of music.
The Abingtonian
December 2012 Page 8
SPORTS
Keep an eye on these talented teams!
- Boys and Girls Basketball
- National Champion Chess Team
- Marching Band Indoor Guard and Drumline
- Indoor Boys and Girls Track
- Boys and Girls Swimming and Diving
- Bowling
Girls In the Game:
A Sports Update with Alex
Brusha and Kath Welsh
The football team hosted the annual Abington-Cheltenham
Thanksgiving game. For the event, the library and office hallways
were decorated with immense spirit. The Pep Rally on November
21 was filled with entertaining class skits, including a surprise host
skit leading up to the big game. On the morning of November 22,
the Ghosts took the field against the Panthers. The game went three
quarters without a score. In the fourth quarter, Craig Reynolds ran
the ball for the winning touchdown! It was the 92nd meeting between
Abington and Cheltenham with Abington holding the edge with
55 wins and 31 losses, with only five cancelled games. On another
not, the boys and girls basketball seasons are underway. Both teams
scrimmaged against Upper Merion. The girls brought home a victory,
but the boys were not so lucky. The girls also had a scrimmage
against Germantown Friends on November 27th. They played six,
ten-minute periods and won 87-42. Both teams have their tip-off
tournaments on December 7th and 8th at home. The other winter
sports teams are practicing and preparing for the upcoming season.
We look forward to awesome seasons from all the teams!
SERIES HISTORY:
ABINGTON - 55 WINS
CHELTENHAM 31 WINS
A Whole New Bite!
By Josh Seong
When playing a team sport, most are found using a mouth
guard. Mouth guards are important in athletic activities because they
protect teeth from harm, biting one’s tongue, and most importantly help
prevent brain damage. Many of who have used mouth guards before
know that mouth guards do not taste good. It is a sacrifice athletes
must “taste” in order to protect their teeth. Well, now athletes do not
have to worry about the bitter taste of mouth guards anymore. Mogo,
has just created mouth guards with artificial flavoring to help athletes
not regret the precaution they are taking. From a wide variety of flavors,
ranging from flavors like mint, bubble gum, orange, and many others,
these new mouth guards are supposed to taste great, but also look great
too. The flavorful mouth guards are being sold at $11.99, cheaper than
mouth guards of the same quality, so athletes might consider investing.
No longer will bitter tasting mouth guards ruin the start of a game or
practice. All those interested should try it out!
2012 Football Recap
By: Michael Tershakovec
Led by captains Jake Clark, Phil Gore, and James Heiler, the
Ghosts football team started the season with a win against Samuel
Fels High School, 24-8. In their home opener, the Ghosts beat Central
Bucks East, by a score of 21-6. The Ghosts stayed undefeated at home
for the season, as they were always cheered on by the rambunctious
Abington Student Section (the very group voted into the Suburban One
“Tournament of Champions” for its loud, enthusiastic, and unwavering
support of the football team). The Ghosts entered the playoffs with
a 7-3 record, ranked fourteenth in the district. Unfortunately, the
Ghosts exited the playoffs in a first round loss to the strong Pennridge
High School squad, 35-14, highlighted by the extremely fast junior
running back Mike Class. On Thanksgiving, the Ghosts played their
traditional game against bitter
rival Cheltenham. For the past
five Thanksgivings, Abington
has tasted victory. This year’s
Ghosts made it an even six with
a 7-0 win, in what turned out to
be a real defensive battle. The
winning touchdown was a 29yard run for a score by Craig
Reynolds. The Ghosts finished
the season with an 8-4 record.
Abingtonian 2012-2013
Published by:
Abington Senior High School, Abington, PA
Editors-In-Chief:
Christine Palazzolo & Halana Dash
News Editor:
Grace Pak
Editorial Editor:
Chris Smith
Features Editor:
Alex Rosenbaum
Sports Editor:
Mike Tershakovec
Writers:
Liz Gassman, Andrew VanBuren, Elana Waldstein,
Alex Brusha, Kathleen Welsh, Aleksandra Cvetković,
Rachel Clayton, Christin Manilal, Becca McGarry,
Ana Zeneli, Johanna Gruber, Sabrina Farmer, Ryan Breen,
Brendan Malone, Paul Sanchez, Leah McLaughlin, Gabriella Lopez,
Erinmarie Byrnes, Sarah Gleason, Rebecca Newman, Vincenza Rico,
Stephen Costello, Rebecca Kruger, Chae Eon Jang, Nia Karasavas,
Josh Seong, Tom Higgins, Tia Barnhardt, Andrew Schmidt, Madison
Bradley, Isaac McDermott, Rachel Maizel, Julianna Lowenstein
Point/Counterpoint:
Chris Smith, Kate Stock
Faculty Advisors:
Mr. Bryan Quigley & Mr. Albert Saylor
Administration:
Dr. J. Fecher, Mr. R. McCuen, Mr. E. Johnson, Mr. C. Fiorino