Titan Topics Online

Titan Topics
Future NASCAR
drivers? Page 9.
November 5, 2009 ♦ Volume 50 ♦ Issue 1 ♦ Free! ♦ Tussey Mountain H.S. ♦ 199 Front Street, Saxton, PA 16652 ♦ 635-2975 ♦ titantopics.org ♦ [email protected]
Inside:
Flip-flops now
street-legal,
pg. 3
Beware the
swine flu, pg. 4
Poor grades
cancel a trip,
pg. 4
TMHS helps
local library,
pg. 4
8th grade incentive picnic,
pg. 4
New teachers,
pgs. 6-7
The lost history
of Saxton, pg. 6
What exactly
is Fall Foliage?
pg. 10
Will the band
go to Disney?
pg. 10
Teacher wins
fishing tourney,
pg. 11.
The Back Nine
returns!
Back Page.
One man, two missions
Junior high principal
remains head football coach this year
By Adriene Walls and Chris Foore
Web & Sports Editors
Mr. Kevin Steele went from science teacher to Junior High Principal
at Tussey Mountain High School. Mr.
Steele is also the head Varsity football
coach.
Although he is holding two important positions in the school, Steele remarked that he had not had problems
with any distractions so far. Mr. Steele
stated that the two jobs have not caused
conflict with each other. “At the end of
the day, I change from my office attire,
to my coaching attire and go to work,”
said Mr. Steele.
As a Junior High Principal, Mr.
Steele leads the junior high teachers
and evaluates 4Sight. Mr. Steele mentioned that he must also find ways to
improve scores on the 4Sight. He noted
that he misses interacting with students
on a daily basis through teaching but is
settling into his new role.
For the football team, he still has access to their grades and said that grades
have not been a problem for his teams.
As Junior High Principal, he can also
now access all students’ grades that
come to him with a problem. Being Junior High Principal requires about one
Not a case of split personalitlies, simply a photo illustration. Mr. Kevin Steele tackled two distinct leadership roles this fall:
Junior High Principal and Head Football Coach. Photo illustration by Rachelle Foor.
hour a day of dealing with disciplinary
issues as well as making sure all classes
are running well for the Junior High.
When asked to compare his previous job of teaching to his position
as Junior High Principal, Steele commented that neither job is easy and that
both jobs have their own different and
unique challenges.
Mr. Steele is a graduate of TMHS
and has been involved in education for
10 years. For five years, he taught science classes in Maryland before returning to the Saxton area where he taught
Integrated Science and Biology 2 as
well as taking the reins as the Varsity
Football Coach in his very first year at
Tussey. Steele had coaching positions
in Maryland with basketball, football,
and baseball. Mr. Steele feels coaching
better prepared him for the principal
role and has always relished the opportunity to become a principal.
“Coach Steele is proving to be an excellent administrator because I think he has done a great
job so far this year as well as a fantastic football coach because I think he’s had a great season.”
-Mrs. Katie Stoudnour, Seventh Grade English Teacher and Varsity Cheerleading Coach
That was one rainy Homecoming Superintendent
By Krista Swope
Editor in Chief
Tussey ended an exciting spirit
week with their Homecoming Court.
Ending the week with announcing the
king and queen on Friday, October 2,
2009.
To find out who was representing
Tussey’s homecoming court the senior
class votes on top ten. Then the 9th
through 12th grade students voted on
the court. To kick off the court, Tussey
had Spirit Week, where everyday the
students dressed according to a certain theme. Monday was Pajama Day,
where students dressed in their favorite sleepwear. Tuesday was Twin Day;
students picked a friend and dressed
alike. Wednesday was Redneck Day:
dress like a hick for fun. Later that day.
Tussey held a bonfire for a pre-pep
rally. At the bonfire, students danced,
ate food, and played games with the
Homecoming Court. The student
council organizes this event, while
the cheerleaders organized the games
played. Thursday was Make Your Own
T-shirt or Tie-dye Day. Lastly, Friday
was Spirit Day; students were to dress
in school colors for the pep rally, where
they announced Tussey’s Homecoming Court.
At the football game, the previous
king and queen came to hand off the
crowns. They were Catie Shontz and
Logan Melius. Catie is currently attending Indiana University of Pennsylvania majoring in International
Business. Logan is currently attending
Frostburg State University majoring in
Health and Physical Education. The
2010 Homecoming King and Queen
were Dane Diehl and Abigail Runk.
Dr. Ronald
McCahan to
bid goodbye
By Adriene Walls
Web Editor
Former Homecoming King Logan Melius congratulates senior Dane Diehl.
Photo by Mrs. Jancula
Read more about the Homecoming Court on page 5.
Martin’s General Store Renovations
By Wayne Brant
Staff Writer
Martin General Store in Saxton will be going through
renovations in the next few weeks. These renovations include the gas pumps, the size, and the interior.
A number of different contractors will be doing some of
the work, even work will be done by The Martin Oil Company their self. The store will be brand new from the ground
up. The new store will increase in size about 20% to about
3,500 square feet or more. They will be using the same technology but it will be more sophisticated for the employees.
This will make it easier and faster access for the customers.
The gas pumps will be much faster. There will now be
a total of six gas pumps. There will be four gas pumps in
the front for regular fuel, and two on the side of the store
for diesel. This will create faster and easier access to the gas
pumps also.
There will now be two entrances for the store, instead of
one, and the store will be much farther back. There will be
a lot more space inside the store, and a lot more of things in
stock. The kitchen will also be larger, along with freshly prepared food daily and even more places to sit down and eat.
Three registers will be in use, not just two, including one being dedicated to lottery and tobacco products. The registers
will be much faster and will be able to track sales to the exact
minute for security purposes. Cameras will be tied into...
Halfway down: The historic building currently owned by Martin’s General Stores has been torn down to be replaced by an
updated convenice store and gas station. Photo by Mr. Thompson
Martin’s Renovations continued on page 3.
A long time school district administrator will soon
be retiring from Tussey Mountain.
Dr. McCahan, alumni of Tussey Mountain, has been
a part of the district for a total of 36 years, stating that
it all started in the summer of 1965, when he met Richard Shoemaker, the first band director at Tussey Mountain. He started teaching 7th grade geography and later
teaching 10th grade world cultures. During his teaching
career he taught all grade levels except for 12th grade.
Throughout the years, McCahan said “Parents have
changed; not the kids,” and stated that people relations
has been a challenge.
McCahan’s job involves a lot of work and responsibility. He controls the entire school district. “This job is
challenging, yet still very rewarding,” said McCahan.
One difficult challenge is being faced with the decision on wintry days to have school, delay its start, or
cancel school. Dr. McCahan consults with several other
superintendents in the wee hours of the morning. He
must then immediately call channels 6 and 10, and get
it posted on the school’s website.
He has had many memorable moments over the
years, but the one that stands out most is coaching the
girls soccer team. He stated that while he was coaching
in the late 70’s, the team could not seem to grasp a win.
But the team took little steps and finally achieved a win.
McCahan also enjoyed moments when he coached junior high and junior varsity basketball and baseball.
Dr. McCahan’s goals for Tussey Mountain were
to provide more opportunities for students to have a
greater commonwealth. He said, “Upgrading facilities
with the new renovations is a goal I’m glad to have seen
reached.” Getting the Keystone Award for many years
is an accomplishment that we are hoping to keep carrying on through Tussey.
Dr. McCahan article continued on page 3.
Commentary
Page 2
Respect Diversity Where did all of
Dear Editor,
Diversity is a huge thing nowadays. Everyone is from
mixed ethnical backgrounds. But in some places you don't
get to see a lot of diversity and that leaves a lot of people in
the dark. There are so many assumptions and racial remarks
about diverse people. That's no one's fault of course, it's just
that they aren't well-educated on others from themselves.
People that live in the city are used to seeing all different
people. People that live in areas with lesser population usually only know their own race. I feel that schools especially
need diverse children. Raise children around change and
experience more of the world.
Sincerely,
Tatianna Ritchey
Senior
Have something you want to say?
We want to hear it!
Letters to the Editor that are within
the guidelines of our editorial policy
are accepted from all students, faculty,
staff, and community members.
the food go?
Dear Editor,
Have you ever realized that the cafeteria will run
out of food for third lunch, but still have leftovers the
next day? Don’t get me wrong, sometimes third lunch
has an abundance of food, too. It’s still shocking that
they will run out of food for lunch yet have leftovers
the next day.
The cafeteria staff does a great job at cooking food
and serving it nicely. But it still feels disheartening
when you get up to the front of the line, and they’re
all out of the good food. There should be enough food
made.
The cafeteria staff does a great job providing for us,
but sometimes the teenagers in the lunch are dissatisfied by not getting what they want. They shouldn’t be
left out, it isn’t right. It’s especially not right to have
leftovers after running out of food the day before.
Sincerely,
Kylea Myers
Sophomore
The Titan Topics
Titan Topics
Editorial Policy
The Titan Topics will strive to provide an outlet for the freedom
of expression accorded to all students by Tussey Mountain School
District policy and by the Pennsylvania School Code. The Titan
Topics newsmagazine will strive provide a designated forum for
student expression, and Titan Topics Online will strive to provide
a traditional public forum.
The Titan Topics will strive to meet professional journalism
standards. We will acknowledge any mistakes and correct any major errors brought to our attention. We will not intentially invade
privacy rights.
Letters to the editors must include the following: A minimum
of 75 words per letter. The letter must have the person's name on
it, but the writer may request to publish it anonymously. It also
must be school appropriate; if not, it will not be published.
Any student is invited to publish content, regardless of experience and/or enrollment in class. Content decisions are primarily
the responsibility of the student editorial board. We will not publish material that is obscene, profane, libelous in nature, or contains ethnic slurs. Works that will create a material or substantial
disruption will also be rejected. We reserve the right to refuse to
print criticism which does not contain constructive elements and/
or is supported by facts. Student editors also reserve the right to
reject any advertisement in print or on the web. Student editors
are responsible for determining the editorial opinion of the paper.
Opinions are not reflective of the district, school, faculty, or administration. Prior review is given only to the high school and
junior high school principal two days prior to official newspaper
publication.
What do you think of the
renovated cafeteria?
By Cheyanne Mitchell
Staff Writer
As you all know, the renovations in
the cafeteria started at the end of the
2008-2009 school year and they should
be completed by January of 2010. So
what do people think of the cafeteria
so far? Of all people to ask the best
person was Cafeteria Manager, Deb
Stepsianos. She makes the menus for
all three elementary schools along with
our menus and she does pretty much
anything that has to do with the cafeteria. When asked if she could change
something about the cafeteria, she said,
"Everybody eats free. Wouldn't that be
nice? But I'd also change where the
offices are and the size of them." And
when asked what she thought of the
cafeteria so far she said, "I really like
the new look and the open area in the
back looks cleaner than the old cafeteria did."
But how do the other students feel
of the renovations? Eighth grader, Au-
brey Hedge said "I really like the new
cafeteria. There is more room and I
don't have to worry about squeezing
through people's seats just so I can sit
down. It looks really good."
So what do 7th grade students feel of
the cafeteria? They weren't here when
the old cafeteria was still here, but do
they like their elementary school cafeteria better? John Mitchell said "I like
the high school cafeteria, it looks good.
It's better than my elementary school
cafeteria."
And finally, Deb Stepsianos came
up with the idea of an opinion box for
the students to express their feelings
toward the new and improved cafeteria. That way, students would have a
chance to tell what they think of the
cafeteria. The only concern is the student's responses. "You should've seen
what students wrote the last time we
had an opinion box" said Stepsianos.
Make sure that you're honest and
mature about your responses if we do
have an opinion box.
The Titan Topics
2009-2010
Fall ISSUE 2009 • VOL. 50, NO. 3
Journalism Staff Writers
Shenille Black, Wayne Brant, Ashton Cooper,
Destiny Deihl, Jessica Faircloth, Lacy Gonsman,
Taylor Lemin, Karyssa Mellott, Cheyanne
Mitchell, Tatianna Ritchey, Kirstie Runk
Editors
Krista Swope, Editor in Chief
Rhiannon May, Copy and A. & E. Editor
Chris Foor, Sports Editor
Rachelle Foor, Staff Photographer
Elainea Hess, Stringers Editor
Adriene Walls, Webmaster and Web Editor
Brea Myers, Layout Editor
Stringers & Contributors:
Heather Jancula, Carlee Bussard, Sam
Coffman, Paige Reed, Kylea Myers, Neal
Smith, Morgan Lynn, Paige Thomas,
Lizzie Kaiser, Courtney Mervin, Taylor
Lane, Jackie Sabines, Olivia Claycomb,
Tesla Dodson
Technical Assistance
Scott Heckman, Diane Kline, Eric Young
Adviser
Nathan S. Thompson, CJE
E-mail: [email protected]
titantopics.org
News
The Titan Topics
Page 3
Martin’s Renovations, continued from page 1.
...the registers for advance use. Two bigger coolers (Walkin Coolers) will be used now for drinks. “There will be a
much larger coffee bar, so we will be able to add new coffee
and new ice drinks when they come out,” Jan Martin, General Manager of the Martin Oil Company, said.
Martin said “We hope to be starting the renovations in
the next few weeks, and like to be done by the first of March,
as long as the weather cooperates and there are not any
glitches with the contractors.”
In order to make the renovations complete, they had to
buy more land their self. “We couldn’t just make changes
without re-building the store from the ground up, and without buying more land,” Jan says. The company used to own
just the building and the parking lot, nothing beside it, and
nothing behind it. It took awhile for the company to buy
more land. Jan continues to say, “We couldn’t change the
gas pumps around without doing this also.”
The company also had to get many different permits to
start the renovations. They had to get permits through the
Saxton borough and many state agencies such as PennDOT.
They also plan on expanding the employment. They currently have fifteen employees and will probably have twenty-five or more on average when the renovations are complete. People interested in employment must be at least 18 to
apply. They are also anticipating on going back to twentyfour hour service and will be using the Mini Mart across the
street to keep the store in business. Originally, the plan was
to provide full service gas pumps, but safety concerns did
not make this feasible. With the increase of employment, it
will make the flow of the store much faster when the renovations are complete.
Martin continued by saying, “We are aware that the
building we have now is historic, and we tried to think of
ways to keep the building and still make these changes, but
we couldn’t come up with a way to do this without re-building it from the ground up anyway. When the new store is
built, there will be pictures of the old building back in the
rail-road time, and also pictures of it is the day before we
tear it down. We will also try to landscape the new building
so it will better benefit the community.”
Dr.
McCahan,
continued
from page 1.
As for his
plans after retirement, McCahan stated
that he is currently exploring his options. He also
wants to teach
at a University some day.
Five
years
from now, he
sees himself in
a warmer climate and being
“retired.”
The remnants of the old pumps. Photo
by Mr. Thompson
Students pray at the flagpole The flip-flop era is recommenced
By Jessica Faircloth
Staff Writer
By Elainea Hess
Stringers Editor
On the morning of September 23, Tussey Mountain
High School students were
invited to the flag pole in
front of the school to pray.
They prayed a great deal for
many things.
Eighth grade student
Lizzie Kaiser attended the
ceremony. Kaiser said that
the leaders of the group were sophomore Aaron Barrnet, senior Nick Runk,
and Joe Beinik, the organizer. All of the
students practice forms of Christianity. Most of the students that attended
heard about “See You at the Flag Pole”
from their youth groups in Saxton,
Robertsdale, and Six Mile.
During the ceremony, the students
sang the song “Our God is an Awe-
After years of prohibition, this year
Tussey Mountain Students are allowed
to wear flip-flops.
Senior high principal Mr. Jerry
Shoemake said that a lot of time had
been spent over the years enforcing the
dress code rule that banned flip-flops,
and that this time could be better spent.
Also, the use of flip-flops didn’t affect
the education; students were just not
allowed to wear them because of safety
concerns. Tussey was the only school
in Bedford County that did not allow
flip-flops.
It is a choice that students can make
to wear flip-flops or not. Shoemake
would not wear them because they
are not an appropriate for a principal
to wear when he has to be dressed up.
Teachers do not wear flip-flops; they
wear sandals. Flip-flops have been
banned since Shoemake started here
Foggy fall morning prayer.
Photo by Mr. Thompson
some God.” They prayed for things
including our country, schools, and
the communities. A microphone was
passed around for anyone who wanted
to say a prayer aloud. One student,
Tristean Weaver read “2 Kings, 22:13”
aloud. Kaiser said, “It was really nice, I
wish more people would have came.”
Free at last. After years, the flip-flop now roams the hall free of
persecution.
seven years ago as a teacher.
Mrs. Lindsey Myers said that she doesn’t care if the students wear flip-flops, she just doesn’t like the smelly feet.
Flip-flops are not legal everywhere in Tussey, though. Students must still bring sneakers for gym, and the shop classes
still require regular shoes for safety.
End of renovations now in sight
Right:
Alan Ross (on the
right) has been
Pathline’s project
manager during
the renovations.
Text and photos by Tatianna Ritchey
Staff Writer
Tussey Mountain High School’s renovations have been
scheduled for completion by the end of November. While
the front hallway, auditorium, and outside of the building
are not complete, the cafeteria, classrooms, and the newer
gymnasium are finished.
The new gymnasium features hardwood floors, four
heating and cooling pumps, and new wall padding. It’s a
multipurpose gym and mostly used for Junior High events
and wrestling.
The auditorium is undergoing many changes. Other
changes include new carpet, new lighting, new sound system, and new seating that will approximately seat 483 people. These are a few things to look forward to in a new auditorium, soon to come.
The cafeteria has undergone heavy changes. The entire
layout has changed. It was previously larger but not all the
upgrades. The entire inside of the kitchen area is remodeled. There is even now a place for students to place their
books on a shelf, instead of the table. “I really think the new
kitchen area looks good and it’s easier to get our food”, said
Senior Ericka Manley.
Mr. Alan Ross, construction manager, wanted to make
certain to thank all the staff, students, and teachers for their
cooperation and patience.
Above: The new
cafeteria.
Below: A finished
hallway.
Above: The new auxillary gym.
• Quality Meats • Produce
• Groceries • Deli • Movie Rentals
• Bakery • Sandwich Shop
Saxton
Market
Pleasing You Pleases Us!
(814) 635-3413
Michael R. Shuke, D.M.D.
general dentistry
509 Main St., Suite 102
Saxton, PA
814-635-2221
Toll Free 866-822-2127
$2.00 off your
purchase of
$5.00 or more
at
810 Spring Street
Saxton, Pennsylvania, 16678
Telephone 635-3176
Saxton Station
Pharmacy
Page 4
News & Features
The Titan Topics
Tussey High School volunteers take action
By Elainea Hess
Stringers Editor
Recently, several students and staff of Tussey Mountain
have taken part in the renovation of the Saxton Community
Library. Some of the volunteers included BCO teacher John
Husick, and the 08-09 BCO students.
The addition to the library started on August 2,2008 with
no estimated time of being finished due to the work being
done by volunteers. The money for the renovation was not
given but it was saved up over the years. The only two grants
were for the library's addition to be insulated and handicap
accessible; both grants were $1,000 each.
After the first step of the renovation was completed and
the foundation was assembled at the end of September 2008,
John Husick and his BCO class when to work on the roof.
They worked off and on through the end of December. They
also did smaller things throughout the winter months. Husick and the BCO students helped with the framing of the
walls. They also helped with roof insulation, trusses, sheeting, and shingles. The BCO class also reshingled the existing
library and planted grass.
The students covered many aspects of building traits.
The students also had to be inspected to reach the PA build-
The front of the newly renovated library. Photo by Elainea Hess.
This window in the library will soon be turned into the doorway
between the old and new sections. Photo by Elainea Hess.
ing code expectations to ensure that the work that had preformed was exceptionable. Husick said, "Students completed the work in a manner that was exceptional to real life
projects, it was a great experience, I hope to have another
one in the future."
The renovations were done under the direction of the
library board. The library director, Judy Williams, said the
library needed more space. "Three years ago, we held a
summer's reading program. 150 children signed up. Toddlers were required to have a parent or guardian. Most of
the children would want to bring one anyway. We had no
space, we were glad most of the days were sunny enough to
be outside. That's when we decided it was time to start the
project." She said.
Eighth Grade has picnic at the VFW PSAT: What is it?
By Samantha Coffman and Paige Reed
Titan Stringers
By Rhiannon May
Copy Editor
On Friday September 18, the eighth grade class had a
PSSA incentive picnic at the VFW field. To attend the picnic,
students had to receive a score of proficient, advanced, or a
ten percent growth on the reading and math PSSA tests last
year..
The picnic was off to a good start with a pizza party. Every student got two slices of pizza, with a drink and a bag of
chips. Afterwards the 8th graders enjoyed playing football,
softball, soccer, and volleyball. The reading teacher, Mrs.
Galo, enjoyed a game of softball with the students.
Eighth grade students Mallory Krieger and Thomas Stoeffler had some motivational words. Stoeffler said, "I was
looking forward to the reward. The picnic was fun." Krieger
said, "Hard work pays off in the end."
No prizes were awarded and depending on PSSA scores,
decides when this event will happen again.
We all know what the SAT is. We’ve studied for it,
stressed over it, and bought books about it. Obviously, it’s a
pretty important part of your high school career, but do you
know what the PSAT is?
The PSAT, or Preliminary SAT, has a similar set up compared to your average SAT. It has five timed sections: two
twenty-five minute long critical reading sections, two twenty-five minute math sections, and one thirty minute writing
section. The test has a total of 125 questions.
However, unlike the SAT, there is no stressful essay to
worry about and the PSAT is an hour and a half shorter, taking only about two hours and ten minutes to complete. Also,
your PSAT score does not count toward college admissions
but it can help you snag a scholarship.
Every year, National Merit Scholarships are awarded to
juniors and seniors who score in the 95th to 99th percentile.
These scholarships look good on your applications, so it’s
important that you try to do well and get a good score.
There are several ways that you can study. You can take
the practice PSAT that is provided when you sign up. This
will help you find the areas that you need help on and help
you adjust to having timed sections. Additionally, you can
talk to your guidance counsleor about what to expect on the
test.
The PSAT is given every October and costs roughly thirteen dollars, though schools often add on an extra dollar or
two. Your results will be given back in either December or
January and you will receive your test booklet as well so you
can look at the questions you missed.
Taking the PSAT as a junior this year, Kyler Runk said, “I
think that seeing what I need to work on will help me prepare for the SAT.” This test will not only get you out of more
than two hours worth of classes, it will also genuinely help
you prepare for the SAT.
“Fabulous Prizes”
Numerous eighth grade students enjoyed the PSSA incentive picnic .
Above: A student catches a pass during
a game of football.
Right: How many students can you fit
on a merry-go-round?
Photos by Samantha Coffman
and Paige Reed
College fair helps
students prepare for
their future
By Rhiannon May
Copy Editor
On October 13, a small group of juniors and seniors went
to explore the college fair held at Hartland Hall in Bedford.
There was a large variety of schools in attendance, from
beauty, technology, and business schools to the typical four
year colleges. Even the Army had a stand set up at the meeting. Though most of the colleges were local and well known,
there were also universities from outside of Pennsylvania
including the University of Alabama and West Virginia University.
Each student was permitted to walk around the building
and talk to the college representatives which consisted of admissions officers, current students and school alumni.
Most groups handed out brochures, financial information and admission packets. Additionally, they encouraged
students to attend open house meetings.
The trip helped a lot of students get organized for the
future, including junior Josh Bussard, who said, "The college fair was a great chance for me to explore possibilities of
furthering my education."
Ineligibility cancels trip
By Rachelle Foor
Staff Photographer
The Renaissance Faire field trip was canceled because “a
number of students were ineligible,” said senior high principal Mr. Shoemake.
Ineligibility affects sports, field trips, and other activities. Too many kids were missing to go on the Renaissance
Faire field trip in order to pay for the bus. Art teacher Adam
Baughman and senior English teacher Mrs. Polly Klock
needed a certain number of students to go.
Since academic eligibility started to become a problem,
not enough students were able to attend. Students who were
failing more than two classes couldn’t go. They had until the
end of the week to bring up their grades to be eligible.
The loss of many students made the cost of the trip “ridiculously expensive,” said Baughman.
Klock mentioned that the “lack of student performance”
kept them from going. She said, “They [the students] thought
it wouldn't happen.” Klock said, “They have one job, to get
good grades.” She added that what you do now will help
you 20 years from now.
She relates it to a real job: if you don’t work you don’t
get the pay.
She mentions that she has “ideas to create a club” that
would help ineligible students to attend such a trip.
The Renaissance was a period of enlightenment in the
16th century, around the time of Queen Elizabeth in England. The Faire is a “trip back in time,” said Klock.
H1N1 Update
By Kirstie Runk
Staff Writer
H1N1, known better as Swine Flu, is hitting hard throughout the world. Swine Flu has turned death statistics upside
down, the Center for Disease Control (CDC) has confirmed.
Many deaths occur in people under the age of 65; this illustrates that H1N1 virus is affecting the young. Most people
hospitalized with H1N1 are young. People are at a higher
risk if they have a complication such as asthma, and even
more deaths are occurring in pregnant women. If you have
asthma, you are pregnant, or even have diabetes, the CDC
would like you to think of yourself as being at a higher risk
and recommends that you be vaccinated. The flu.gov web
site has a flu vaccine finder that links to your state. Each
state is offering the H1N1 Swine Flu vaccine. First vaccines
are going out to heath care workers and people at risk of flu
complications.
To prevent spreading H1N1 any further, we are taking
precautions. Our school is having meetings, and handing
out information of how to prevent spreading germs. Each
teacher is stressing the rules more than ever since this can
be a deadly virus. The students need to be reminded to
keep their hands to themselves at all times and to keep their
hands away from their face throughout the day. The facial
area is the part of the body where germs can enter through
the mouth and nose. By keeping hands to themselves, germs
won't spread as easily. Remember every student needs to do
their job by following simple procedures.
News & Features
The Titan Topics
Page 5
The History Club
Enjoys a Trip to
Jennerstown
By Destiny Diehl
Staff Writer
Outdoors Club has
several plans
By Teauna Kline
Titan Stringer
Outdoors Club and Venture Crew
members are looking forward to several upcoming events. The members of
the Outdoors Club hope to plan a field
trip to the Eastern Sports and Outdoors
show, a camping trip, bike rides, and
a Raystown Lake Cleanup Day where
the Club members will clean up trash
found along Raystown Lake and also
will be camping and fishing along with
the clean up. Many of the Outdoors
Club members are really looking forward to a great year full of lots of fun.
What’s new in TV crew?
By Rachelle Foor
Staff Photographer
Eleventh grade English teacher Mrs.
Amy Snyder has been the head adviser
of TV crew since 2003.
They first used the original equipment in the school, collecting dust, that
was never used. This year they will be
using new and improved equipment
such as broadcast-quality cameras, a
sound mixer and video equipment used
in “real” studios in the “real world,” as
Snyder put it.
The school has also purchased new
plasma screen televisions for many
classrooms. They are now in the process
of using the equipment and building
the set. Most students in TV Crew
this year are new;
only three are returning members.
They will broadcast at the beginning of January. It
will be a means of
communication for
the student body
and staff. TV Crew
is an organization
of students who
work together to
produce the morning
announcements.
The 2009 Homecoming Court. From left to right, back to front: Dan White, Mark Brown, Dane Diehl, Levi Neuder, Steven Miller, Brandi McCahan,
Kirstie Runk, Abbie Runk, Rachel Zimmerman, Alyssa Black
2009 Homecoming Court:
On September 18 the history club
went to Jennerstown to watch a play
called “The Glass Menagerie”. They
went for educational purposes.
In the romantic comedy, a mother
becomes obsessed with her two kids
being happy and successful. She was
worried that her son is turning into
his father and she is worried that her
daughter is never going to find a gentleman caller because of her disability.
History Club member and junior
Victoria Bookheimer said, “The play
was entertaining and somewhat funny.” What stuck out to her in the play
were all the amusing comments. Her
favorite actor was the gentleman caller
Jim O’Connor.
The play was written by Tennessee
Williams who was born in Columbus,
Mississippi in 1911. In 1944 he wrote
“The Glass Menagerie” and became
known as a playwright. This production received the Drama Critics Award
and it brought large audiences to the
theater.
“The reason we went to play was it
was only play playing and for educational purposes,” said history club adviser Mr. Ray Hipp.
Alyssa Black
Parents: Leroy and Carol Black
Resides: Broad Top City
Curriculum: Accelerated Academic
Activities: Soccer, Field majorette, Basketball
cheerleading, Track, Twirl team, Student council, Class of 2010 officer, Spanish club, National
Honor Society, and School Board representative.
Future Plans: To attend college majoring in
speech pathology.
Abigail Runk
Steven Miller
Parents: Steve and Lori Miller
Resides: Saxton
Curriculum: Tech Ed.
Activities: Hunting, Fishing and Ski club.
Future Plans: To attend Allegany College of
Maryland with a bachelors degree in science.
Mark Brown
Parents: Donald and Denise Brown
Parents: Duane and Pam Runk
Resides: Dudley
Resides: Eagle Foundry
Curriculum: BCO
Curriculum: Business
Activities: Hunting, Fishing, Football,
Activities : Soccer, Basketball, Field majorBaseball, and Wrestling.
ette, Twirl teams and FBLA.
Future Plans: To attend college and beFuture Plans: To attend college and majorcome an x-ray tech.
ing in Accounting.
Kirstie Runk
Dane Diehl
Parents: Greg Diehl Sr. and Raedell Hoover.
Parents: Robert and Deborah Runk.
Resides: Saxton
Resides: Todd
Curriculum: Business
Curriculum: Academic
Activities: Baseball, Outdoor club, FBLA,
Activities: Softball
Future Plans: To attend college majoring and football team captain.
Future Plans: To attend college to obtain a
in nursing.
degree in the medical field.
Brandi McCahan
Parents: Dorcas McCahan
Resides: Eagle Foundry
Curriculum: Academic
Activities: Soccer, Basketball and Competition Cheerleading.
Future Plans: To attend college with an undecided major.
Rachel
Zimmerman
Parents: Randy and Wendy Zimmerman
Resides: Saxton
Curriculum: Accelerated Academic
Activities: Basketball, Softball, and
National Honor Society.
Future Plans: To attend college to
become a registered nurse and to play
college basketball.
Levi Neuder
Parents: Butch and Sue Neuder
Resides: Dudley
Curriculum: Accelerated Academic
Activities: Football, Basketball,
Track, French club, Student council,
Scholastic quiz team, Physics Club and
Outdoors club.
Future Plans: To go to college.
Daniel White
Parents: Paul and Donna White
Resides: Six Mile Run
Curriculum: Business
Activities: Football, Tennis, Drama Club, Ski Club, FBLA,
and National Honor Society.
Future Plans: To attend Shippensburg majoring in criminal justice.
Bonfire Shows School Spirit
By Destiny Diehl
Staff Writer
On September 30 the Homecoming bonfire took place between
6:30 and 8:30 at the VFW field in Saxton PA. The bonfire was organized by the Student Council and Mrs. Julie Claycomb.
The games the Homecoming Court played were the kissing game,
frozen t-shirt game, and a blindfold game. Dane Diehl and Kirstie
Runk won the frozen t shirt game. No one won the kissing game;
it was just a trick where the cheerleaders were supposed to kiss the
football players, but it turned out to be their mothers. The pastor was
Steve Oberman from the First Church of God and the DJ was Eugene
Kaminsky.
The smashing of a car as done in previous years could not happen
because of the change of location. Freshman Mitchell Corbin said that
he liked it in the past because he could take his anger out. Junior Richard Singer said “he was upset about the smashing of the car because
it was his first time there.”
Claycomb mentioned that she would like to thank the Tussey
Mountain Band Boosters for their support.
Deer or Dear
Damage?
We can help!
~Fast turnaround
~Excellent quality
~In most cases,
no deductible
~All insurance accepted!
814-635-0452
Collision Repair ∆ Insurance Claim Estimates ∆ 100% Satisfaction Guaranteed
Spotlights
Tussey welcomes two new
foreign exchange students
Page 6
The Titan Topics
German exchange student enjoys Tussey
By Krista Swope
Editor in Chief
Tussey is hosting two foreign exchange students for the school year
2009-10. One of them being Oskar Dario Schlösinger from Germany.
A typical day for Oskar would be he
wakes up at 5:30, then he says he would
take a shower. Around 7 he would get
on a bus to get to school. After school
is out he would do he extra curricular
activities. When he would get home he
would chat with American friends on
AIM, check e-mails and study for tests
he would have the following day. A
typical day in Germany would be about
the same, he said, except he would ride
his bike to school, three times a week
he would play badminton on a team,
two times a week play saxophone in
two different band, and one time a
week play saxophone with his teacher.
His hobbies on the weekends would be
hanging out with friends, playing the
saxophone, playing badminton, playing tennis, and skiing. Also, in Germany he was allowed to go to parties
and clubs.
Oskar is 16 and his birthday is April
7, 1993. He is currently in 11th grade
Chutnamard “Mink”
Hongthananan
but taking senior classes such as French
5, Problems of Democracy, Algebra 3,
Pre-calculus, and Biology 2. His after
school activities are marching band,
history club, French club, drama club,
ski club, tennis and the jazz band.
Oskar lives in Berlin, Germany. His
host family for here in America is the
Bakers which consist of: The parents
James and Jamie Baker, and the children Dylan and Alex. Oskar also includes Sophie the dog. He also said he
has many nicknames, includes O’dog,
Ozzey, Oz, Ossi and from Germany
Jüdenlöckchen.
Oskar’s future plans are to go
back to Germany to go to University
because it’s free there. After that he
wants to go to Russia with AFS (the
foreign exchange organization) for a
year. But he is really looking forward
to coming back to the U.S.A. When Oskar was asked what life is like here at
America for him he stated, “It’s kind of
different. It’s a little cheaper here than
in Germany. Otherwise it is fantastic
and I don’t miss anything of my home
country!”
By Shenille Black
Staff Writer
Chutnamard “Mink” Hongthananan is a 17 year old senior at Tussey
Mountain. Mink is enrolled in the
twelfth grade, she does not drive but
she plays the symbols in the marching
band. Mink is originally from Thailand and was very opened and excited
about coming you are writing to the
Huntingdon area. “Here” does not fit.
. Some of her favorite classes here are
Art with Mr. Baughman and World
Cultures with Mr. Flaherty.
Mink is staying with Gwen Gracey,
and enjoys it very much. Mink says
Gwen takes her shopping to the mall
in Altoona, her favorite place to shop
in the mall is JCPenny ‘ s and her other
favorite is Wal-Mart. When she shops
with Gracey she says she buys a lot of
clothes.
There were a lot of transitions for
Mink to go through by coming here,
like the weather, the culture and the
food. So far Mink says her stay here
has been very good, she has made a ton
of friends and is very open to learning
about our culture.
Tussey gets new
music teacher
By Karyssa Mellott and Wayne Brant
Staff Writers
Miss Britainy Lewis is the new instrumental music
teacher here at Tussey. She is replacing retired teacher Mr. Dennis Clawson.
Lewis enjoys other things than just teaching. She
enjoys traveling. She has visited 44 states, Europe,
and Haiti. She also enjoys reading, soccer, and cheering on Penn State, where she went from 2004-2009.
She grew up in the hometown of Apollo Pa, and now
lives in Saxton.
Lewis first knew she wanted to become a music
teacher in 10th grade. She was influenced by her parents and her high school band director Mr. Wozniak
from Kiski area High school.
This is Lewis’s first year of teaching except for student teaching at Hollidaysburg. In the future Lewis
plans to stay a music teacher here at Tussey.
“I can’t believe I get paid
to teach kids music.”
-Miss Britainy Lewis
Miss Lewis teaching a band student. Photo by Rachelle Foor.
Then: A postcard of the old factory at Sugar Camp. Image courtesy of Mike Smith.
New math
teacher at
Tussey
By Taylor Lemin
Staff Writer
A new math teacher, Mrs. Jody Benton, has taken the
position of Mrs. Brenda Winfield, who is now teaching second grade at Robertsdale Elementary. She teaches four classes, including eighth grade Math
PSSA Prep and Math eight, eleventh grade SAG Math and
Twelfth grade TAG Math. Benton stated that if the opportunity arises, she would be interested in coaching a sport.
She is currently involved in the student mentor/mentee
program and is also a ninth grade class adviser. Her hobbies include walking her two dogs, spending time with her
husband, going to the movies and going out to eat. She also
said that her favorite sport is soccer, which she doesn’t get
to play often.
Benton said, “I like working with kids, which is why I
chose to be a teacher.” Her favorite part of teaching is when
a student that is struggling, but finally understands because
of something that she has taught them and her goal is to help
students feel more confident about their math skills.
She had taught before she came to TMHS at Binghamton, New York and McKees Rocks, Pennsylvania, but says
she likes this job best because she enjoys the courses that
she teaches and knows this is a permanent location. Benton
attended College at College Misericordia to earn her Bachelor’s degree, and she is about to start her Master’s degree
this month.
The lost history of Saxton:
A factory at Sugar Camp
By Neal Smith
Titan Stringer
Do you know what the Saxton area
used to be like? It was a very busy and
important town.
There is a place across from the Saxton V.F.W. Field, where there is mountains of ash, coke ovens like the ones in
Riddlesburg, and ruins of a large factory. Almost no one knows about it.
In the 1880’s a man by the name of
Robert Powel decided Saxton would
be a good place to build an iron factory. At one time there were 100 coke
ovens, an office building, and a large
smelting furnace. The furnaces make
a type of iron called pig iron. It was
then shipped by railroad to Pittsburgh
and East Coast ports. After World War
One the factory closed down. The parts
Now: The ruins of the factory remain.
Photo by Neal Smith.
were scrapped and sold; today almost
nothing is left.
Today, if you go there and look
around you will find some cool stuff.
The former Saxton dump is along the
road as you go into the area.. You
might be able to find some old bottles
and trash there. Further along the
road you will see a large brick bridge.
Eventually it gets muddy and hard to
drive through. So you’ll have to get
out and walk. Around the area are
large mounds of ash. Some people go
4-wheel and dirt bike riding on these.
Down the path there are the foundations of what’s left of the big factory.
Along the ridge are many coke ovens.
Deep in the woods is a big tunnel that
goes under what used to be the Railroad.
So if you would like to check this
place out, go right ahead. The ground
isn’t posted. It is owned by New Enterprise Stone and Lime Company. To
get to it turn down Sugar Camp road
off of Route 26. The turn off is just past
Saxton Surplus and Supply. Continue
down the road until is gets too hard
to drive. Then just get out and walk
around on the paths.
Spotlights
The Titan Topics
”New
Page 7
addition to history staff New chemistry teacher for Tussey Mountain
By Krista Swope
Editor in Chief
said, "To be a good teacher you have to
A new addition to the Tussey Moun- have patience and know where the kids
tain High School staff is history teacher are coming from," when asked what
qualities would make a good teacher.
-Mr. Matt McNaul.
McNaul also has many hobbies such
y Mr. McNaul teaches Problems of
eDemocracy and American History. He as, hunting, mountain biking, golfing
tpreviously taught at Nulton Diagnostic and reading. He also shows interest in
gTreatment Center. McNaul starts a typi- physiology and the human mind in gen-cal day at 5:15 a.m. with two eggs and eral. One change he would like to make
to his classes is to
da bagel. He states
incorporate more
ethat, "I've been
technology when
.eating the same
he gets to his perebreakfast everymanent classroom.
dday for five years;
He also said, "I
I have to or I can't
want to personal,start my day."
ize history so that
sThen he comes to
the student have a
lTussey Mountain
more understandpHigh School at 7:00
ing of history and
ra.m. and leaves at
government." He
s3:20 p.m. He also
also says his imfmay stay an expression of Tussey
tra hour to finish
is "It's very close
rhis work. Then he
knit, it doesn't
,will go home to
seem to have a lot
edo more work and
of division like the
eprep for the next
previous schools I
nday . Last he will
have been in." He
gwatch some telealso grew up in
vision and bed by
Dubois and grad10:00 p.m.
uated in Dubois
McNaul graduated from Pitts- Mr. McNaul helps junior Vinnie Coy High school. He
burgh University with a history question. Photo by Ra- currently resides
in Altoona.
majoring in U.S. chelle Foor.
History and Political Science. He is very
organized and likes to plan ahead. He
Mr. Carrier is hired as a new
history teacher this year
By Lacy Gonsman and Shenille Black
Staff Writers
Mr. Chris Carrier, age 24, from
Roaring Spring, Pennsylvania, is one
of the new History teachers at Tussey
Mountain.
He graduated high school from
Bellwood Antis, “Home of the Blue
Devils,” and attended college at Penn
State and St. Francis. After school, he
helps out with the reading competition
club and 5:45 detention.
In his spare time, he likes to read,
watch movies like Kingdom of Heaven,
play with his Black Lab, Comet, read
books like 1984 and play video games,
like Halo for Xbox.
When asked why he chose to come
to Tussey Mountain, he replied “I like
what I heard, you got a new facility,
and I was just really excited about the
place.”
By Wayne Brant
Staff Writer
Mrs. Deidra Stoltz has replaced
Mrs. Sarah Fye (formerly Miss Rebar)
as a new chemistry teacher for Tussey
Mountain Jr./Sr. High School at the
beginning of the 2009 school year.
Stoltz is a University of Pittsburg
at Johnstown graduate where she
earned her Master's of Science degree
in Psychology, and also earned her
Bachelor’s in Secondary Education
with a concentration in Chemistry.
She graduated from Blacklick Valley
High school, where she also taught
General Science 9, General Science 11,
and Physical Science 12 for two years
immediately after College. Stoltz
stopped teaching for a year, and when
she wanted to get back into teaching,
she wanted to do it where she would
teach chemistry.
Stoltz was inspired by an anatomy
teacher in high school. She found out
that she wanted to teach when she
was in her junior class. She had to
pick something to do, and she decided to teach chemistry since she loved
it in school. Her favorite class at Tussey Mountain High
School is Chemistry 2. “I love to teach Chemistry 2 because
the students already know the background of chemistry,
and can really get more in-depth with the content,” said
Stoltz.
Stoltz was born on August 12, 1984, and is now 25 years
old. She grew up in her hometown of Nanty Glo, PA, and
now lives with her husband and two step-daughters. She
loves to cook with her husband, and sometimes just to
cook. She loves to spend time with family, travel with her
husband, and loves to watch hockey and football. Stoltz
also loves to watch television. Her favorite shows are Glee,
Hell’s Kitchen, and football games on the weekend. Her favorite movies are The Wizard of Oz and Stand by Me. Stoltz’s
favorite foods are steak and sea food, and she loves the
Thanksgiving holiday because of the food.
Tussey welcomes back an alumnus
By Karyssa Mellott
Staff Writer
Replacing Mrs. Buseck is new World Cultures and American History teacher Mr. Flaherty. Flaherty is an alumnus of Tussey. He
decided to come back because he loves the
area and the people.
Flaherty enjoys listing to music, playing
video games, lifting weights, and watching
TV and movies. His favorite television shows
are The Office, Family Guy, Law and order,
Lost and the History Chanel.
Flaherty also helps with after school activities, such as Marching Band, and Drama
Club. He likes to do this because he enjoys
hanging out with students and getting to
know them better.
He decided he wanted to become a teacher
his senior year of high school. Flaherty said “I
enjoy exploring history with my students as
my co-navigators.” His influence to become a
teacher was retired music teacher and band
director Mr. Hoffner.
Driver Education teacher is a new hire this year
Adriene Walls
Web Editor
A new teacher joins Tussey while also taking the wheel
with student drivers.
Tom Blanchetti has been involved in many ways with the
school at his first year at Tussey. “Being a football coach requires a lot of work,” stated Blanchetti. He has 2 ½ hours of
practice, games, and organizing game strategies.
Blanchetti mentioned that his life is very busy now that
school started because of living in the Ebensburg area and
not having much free time from football. Although this is his
first year coaching football, he has played football through
his entire high school career. He does many things outside
of school including golf, working out, fantasy football, bowling and going to the movies.
o Blanchetti went to high school at Forest Hills. He finished
tcollege at IUP. He stated that teaching comes easily to him.
eThis year, Blanchetti teaches 2 classes of Drivers Ed and 8th
oand 11th grade health. He also helps tutor 7th and 8th grade
.students in Reading. Blanchetti noted that he wanted to
-teach at Tussey because of the size of our school and because
.he is able to get to know people. He used to work at Tusca.rora Intermediate Unit Corrections Education.
t On November 16th, Blanchetti will have his certification
-to give licenses to students. He currently drives with around
20 students. He said, “Every time I get in the car; I know
sthere is always a risk factor.”
d Blanchetti stated that he often gets scared when riding
-with students, but it depends on who the student is. He deocided to be a driver’s Ed teacher because he thought it would
dbe more marketable and make it easier to find a job.
t The best memory he has had with driving is when one
eof his students told him a funny internet video to watch. He
dsays he has only been in one near-wreck situation with a
kdriving student. The student almost hit a bridge, but Blanchetti grabbed the wheel in time.
Mrs. Stoltz watches some chemistry students enjoy a Science in
Motion Presentation. Photo by Rachelle Foor.
New Addition To Tussey Mountain Teaching Staff
By Kirstie Runk
Staff Writer
MissJessica Reilly is a new addition to TMHS in the science department. Before she taught at Tussey, she previously taught EMT classes and National Ski Patrol, known
as NSP.
Her Favorite part about teaching is that she never stops
learning. “It’s what you learn after you know it all that
counts,” Said Reilly. She loves teaching people, as well as
being taught herself. She attended Mount Aloysius College
with a degree in General Science/Secondary Education.
Reilly, enjoys extra hobbies whenever she isn’t teaching.
She likes to ski, cook, canoe, going camping, and even skydiving. She loves to test her limits. “I think I’m going to do
well here at Tussey Mountain, because I have the drive to
educate the students, and give them the knowledge to succeed,” said Reilly.
New teachers on Twin Day
Mr. Chris Carrier (left) and Mr. Tom Blanchetti (right) dressed
in matching outfits for twin day. Ironically, these two teachers
actually team teach some classes. Photo by Heather Jancula
Right: Miss Jessica Reilly helps a seventh
grade student with their science.
Photo by Rachelle Foor.
Page 8
Sports
The Titan Topics
Three seniors lead the Lady Titans varsity
volleyball team this year
By Chris Foore
Sports Editor
gan Lemin, and Michaela Villa with
two remaining spots open. Buhrman
thinks highly of the experience statThis year’s Tussey Mountain Varing, “We get the experience young,
sity Volleyball team has a young squad
so when we are older we will know
led by three seniors, and a rookie head
what to do better.” Buhrman’s fellow
coach.
classmate Eichelberger said, “We could
Erin Harshbarger, Ashley Russell,
have been better throughout the year
and Krista Swope are the seniors that
and next year we will have room to
lead this year’s young volleyball team
improve.”
under head coach Shelby Crooks.
Crooks had her own thoughts on
The seniors were recognized at Seher first season. She said, “It was much
nior Night held on October 27, 2009
different than when I coached Junior
in the gymnasium against arch rival
High and Junior Varsity. It was a tough
Northern Bedford. The Lady Titans
year, and also a building year. I learned
lost the best out of five match in three
what I need to do different next year.
games. The first game the Lady Titans
These ladies have a lot of potential.”
lost 18-25, the second game they lost Senior Erin Harshbarger serves the ball.
While next year’s team will have no
15-25, and the last of the three games Photo by Olivia Claycomb
senior leadership, Crooks still has high
was edged out by the Lady Panthers
expectations for her team. “I am exand the Lady Titans lost 20-25.
pecting a lot out of next year’s juniors
Crooks should have a more experienced team to work as team leaders and players. They have the ability to step up
with the next two years. She will have four returning start- and be a great team if they want to be, so I do have high and
ers next year: Samantha Buhrman, Emily Eichelberger, Mor- better expectations for next year’s team.”
Junior high cheerleading gets a new coach
Junior high volleyball
under new managemnet
By Morgan Lynn
Titan Stringer
Bump-Set-Spike! These were the words heard a lot this
year in junior high girls’ volleyball.
The team saw new coaches this year with head coach
Courtney Long and assistant coach Jennifer Hall. The season
started off with a three day All-American Volleyball Camp.
The girls had a lot of training and learned a lot from the professional volleyball players who ran the camp. Four weeks
of pre-season led to the girls first win against Bedford. The
season ended with nine wins and seven loses.
When asked how the season went, head coach Courtney
Long said, “We had a good year and really worked together.
We had a good team and they played amazing.” Captains
for the team were eighth grade students Chasity Crooks,
Morgan Lynn, and Caitlin Villa.
By Elainea Hess
Stringers Editor
Jennifer Lane, a substitute teacher,
became the new junior high cheerleading coach. Lane was offered the job by
Rodney Brumbaugh, the school’s Athletic Director. She took the job because
it was a good experience. "I was ready
to try something new outside the classroom, and I enjoy being around kids,"
she said.
Lane had 12 girls make the team
this year. They practiced on the track,
in the gym lobby, in the hallway, or in
the gym if it was open. The girls only
attend home games. Lane said that the
girls did very well and kept their spirit
throughout the whole season. Lane's favorite thing about being a coach is how
much she is learning from the girls and
the girls are learning from her.
Sophomore Morgan Lemin looks on as senior Krista Swope and
sophomore Sam Buhrman bump chests as their names are announced at the beginning of the Senior Night game. Photo by
Olivia Claycomb
Junior high cheerleading coach Jennifer Lane gives some instructions to her cheerleaders. Photo by Taylor Lane.
Forbes Road Soccer and Tussey co-op soccer team
By Kylea Myers
Titan Stringer
Josh Bussard leaves Tussey Mountain multiple times each week to don
a Forbes Road jersey. This is because
Tussey co-ops with the Forbes Road
Boys Soccer Team. Since Tussey Mountain currently does not have a boys soccer team, they co-op with the Forbes
Road Boys Soccer Team.
To start a soccer team at Tussey,
Athletic Director, Rodney Brumbaugh
says, "You would need a lot of players
because it has taken many years to get
girls soccer back on our schedule. And
there has really been no interest for a
boys' soccer."
One of the players, Josh Bussard,
had this to say about the Forbes/
Tussey conjoined soccer team: Regarding the conjoined Forbes Road/Tussey
Mountain soccer team, Josh Bussard
said, "It's a great way to let people enjoy soccer, since there is no boys' team
at Tussey. And Forbes isn't too far
away, so it's convenient ."
Some of the things he has gained
from playing soccer for Forbes areSome
of his personal benefits are that he has
gotten better at soccer and made new
friends. Some of the sacrifices Bussard
has made to play soccer are time after
school (9th periods, evenings) and extra time to travel from between Tussey
toand Forbes.
The co-op soccer team of Forbes
Road and Tussey Mountain seems to
be having a good impact on the boys
that play on the team. Some of these
boys are sophomore Presley Swope,
and juniors Greg Lynn, and Josh Bussard.
The junior high volleyball girls meet with their new coaches during a timeout. Photo by Olivia Claycomb.
The Broad Top
BULLETIN
Publishers Since 1947
Jon D. Baughman, Editor & Publisher
900 SIXTH STREET • SAXTON
Sports
The Titan Topics
By Chris Foore, Sports Editor
Photo illustration by Mr. Thompson. Stock photo courtesy of Eric Husick.
Page 9
Tussey students have taken an
interest in racing at Cove Valley
Speedway on Saturdays.
Eric Husick, Matt Kline, Jordin
Mitchell, and Michael Mitchell all
drive at Cove Valley Speedway.
They drive “go-karts with souped
-lawn mower engines,” as Husick
explained.
Husick plans on moving up to
late models and sprint cars and
race at local tracks, then eventually race in the World of Outlaws:
a traveling series like NASCAR
for amateur drivers.
Michael Mitchell is in his first
year in the sport, which he grew
interested in when his friends
started racing and he wanted to
try the experience himself.
“Racing is fun and you get to go
fast,” said Mitchell.
They all drive in different classes which depend on the age of the
driver. Drivers have to be at least
four years old to participate in
the racing events. The tracks they
drive on are one eighth of a mile
and one fourth of a mile respectively.
Drivers start with a five to eight
lap practice, then move on to an
eight lap heat race, and the day
concludes with a 15-20 lap feature
race. The typical day lasts three to
four hours and includes multiple
age classes.
Racers don’t need sponsors to
participate, but it makes the cost
easier. Sponsors can help with
fuel and car parts. Racers don’t
even need a pit crew.
Students raise money for breast cancer awareness
By Paige Thomas
Titan Stringer
On October 19th, the girls soccer
team hosted a “Pink Out” to raise money for breast cancer awareness.
Seniors Alyssa Black and Elizabeth
Claycomb initiated the Pink Out, ordering the jerseys and coming up with the
idea to donate money for a good cause.
Coach Brea Manges said, “I am really
proud of them for taking it upon themselves to create this special event.”
Each of the players wore a pink jersey which symbolized breast cancer
awareness. $500 was donated to a local
foundation for breast cancer research.
The soccer team was able to raise money through selling t-shirts, working in
concession stands, and donations from community members.
The girls played against Moshannan Valley. The ending
score was 3-0 Abbie Runk, Sadey Crooks, and Caitlin Foster
scored the goals giving us our victory.
Stop-action shots
Above: Kyle Kline (3) is in motion as
the ball is hiked at the junior high
football game against Southern
Huntingdon.
Right: Abbie Runk takes control of the
ball during their game against
Northern Bedford.
The Titan girls soccer team, adorned in pink uniforms, stand
for the playing of the national anthem to kickoff their Pink Out
game. Photo by Courtney Mervin.
English teacher takes over varsity cheerleading
By Ashtan Cooper
Staff Writer
Mrs. Stoudnour is the new varsity football cheerleading
coach this year. This is her first year coaching a sport. She
was a cheerleader when she was in high school. She was interviewed by the school board and was notified by Mr. Rodney Brumbaugh that she got the job. She has her sister Suzy
Molosky as an assistant coach.
Stoudnour said, “I have a great group of girls and I love
my job.” The cheerleaders practice their stunts, cheers, and
dances usually in the gym at their 5:45 practices.
McCAHAN’s
PHARMACY
813A MAIN ST. • SAXTON
HOURS
Mon.–Fri. 9:00 a.m.–5:30 p.m.
Saturday 9:00 a.m.–1:00 p.m.
PHONE (814) 635-2911 • 635-2912
TOLL FREE 1- 877-562-2242
FAX (814) 635-3490
White, Jenkins &Johnson llc
I nsur ance
Auto • Home • Business • Life • Health
She is going to coach again next
year. The cheerleaders are happy that
they have a coach like Mrs. Stoudnour.
“Our squad was terrible the past several years” one of the lettered cheerleaders said. They said they used to get bad
comments all the time, but this year
they have gotten a lot of good comments. Mrs. Stoudnour said she is glad
to have a great group of girls this year
and hopes to have another next year.
Photos by Mr. Thompson.
Varsity football starts strong, gets muddy
By Shenille Black
Staff Writer
The Tussey Mountain varsity football
team started out the year with a bang.
Although they didn’t claim the District
V title, they made it to the first round of
the playoffs.
Throughout the season the players
got to experience a lot surprising events.
These events included rain for four
games in a row and getting to play at
Mansion Park in Altoona. Senior Mark
Brown said about playing at Mansion
Park, “It was pretty amazing.” Several
players said that playing in the rain
didn’t affect them very much.
This year Tussey had junior Vinnie
Coy return. Coy said, “Practices are a lot
harder down here and the work ethic is
completely different.”
It seems that most of the focus this
year had been on running plays. Senior
Jeff Wentz said “I think we’re running
the ball more than passing because we
have three good backs.” The goal for this
year and every year was to win the title
of District Five Champions. The last time
we won the title was 1988. “There is no
doubt in my mind that we could win the
MB Bride
& Special Occasion
A “Wedding Department Store” with
Prom Gowns and Tuxedos as well!
123 South Urania Avenue
Greensburg, PA 15601
(724) 836-6626
807 Lower Main Street, Saxton, PA
(814) 635-2900 • Fax 635-3742
Toll Free 888-314-3972
mbbride.com
Senior Jeff Wentz sprints the final 20 yards
in his 85 yard kick return touchdown
against Juniata Valley. Photo by Mr. Thompson.
title, says Leonard.”
When asked about his idea of a perfect game, Brown replied, “Well, probably to have a little bit of snow, a couple of touchdowns in the first half, get
an interception and run it back to the
house for a winning game.” Leonard
was asked the same question and said,
“Friday November 20th, District 5 Title
game, 1 minute left, score board reads
38 nothing and knowing that I kept five
alive.” Wentz also replied, “If everyone
executed the plays perfectly.” Coy said
his perfect game would be “if I started
the game, and to have at least three
touchdowns, and have no one score on
our defense.”
Sports Stringers needed
for timely sports stories.
See Mr. Thompson or Elainea Hess for details.
John Patrick Snyder, D.D.S.
Denistry for Children and Adults
Arts & Entertainment
Page 10
What is the Bedford
Fall Foliage Festival?
By Carlee Bussard
Titan Stringer
The Bedford Fall Foliage festival is
held for two weekends every October.
It’s set up every year by Linda Bullington and volunteers, and has been going
on for 45 years.
An antique car. This photo is featured on
Some people come for crafts, others
the Festival’s website.
for the pageant, and some may even
come for the food, but the real attracwas happy that I placed, even though
tion here is the Antique Car Parade. As
I didn’t win. I’m excited to go back and
the website states, “Step down memory
help the younger girls.”
lane and feast your eyes on a hundred or
Kelsey Melius also liked the expemore vintage cars as they parade through
rience and said, “I liked meeting new
the tree-lined, historic streets of Bedford,
people from different schools and
Pennsylvania.” Sounds fun, right? And
walking around the festival.”
while you’re there, check out the Fall
Tussey Mountain has had girls in
Foliage Queen Pageant.
the top five of the pageant for the last
This year, Tussey participants were
few years. Congratulations girls!
Sadie Crooks, Brittanny Ross, Victoria
The Bedford Fall Foliage is a great
Mitchell and Kelsey Melius. Sadie was
event, and has something for everyone.
first runner up, and Victoria was third
Weather it be the car parade, the pagrunner up. In the pageant, you must
eant, or the craft stands, it’s a wondermake a speech, go through a judge’s
ful event that’s been going on for a long
interview, lunching, and ride in the car
time, and won’t be stopping soon.
parade, which is the favorite part for
For more information, go to www.
these girls. New clothing was bought
bedfordfallfestival.com.
specifically for this occasion.
The girls that
participated
enjoyed the experience. They were
nervous, but said
that it was “way
more fun than anything, which made
the nervousness go
away,” as Brittanny
Ross put it.
Victoria Mitchell enjoyed her
time. She said, “I Kelsey Melius, Sadey Crooks, Brittanny Ross, and Victoria Mitchell at the Bedford Fall Foliage Festival. Photo by Mrs. Wood.
Disney or Bust
Tussey's marching band sends audition
tapes to the hands of Disney judges.
By Adriene Walls
Web Editor
Marching band members have been working
hard to be accepted to
perform in one of the
four theme parks in Disney.
Bonnie Jenkins, band
director, said, "Bands
are chosen based on
musicality,
marching,
and the professionalism
of the performance. The
Troop Inspection. Mrs. Jenkins checks the marching
parade will be in Decemband lineup at the home game against Juniata Valley.
ber and the band should
have somewhere around
70 members. For auditions, a DVD must be sent that includes two pieces of music that could be played at Disney. Also, applicants must submit a picture of the
band.
Tussey has been in the parade 6 or 7 times. The first was in 1978. Bonnie stated
that "time and preparation to go to Florida is unbelievable." To make the trip
the best ever, the band has to make sure every little detail is perfected. The band
should have a good chance of making it.
Jenkins said, "We must strive for excellence and portray that when we perform
to the best of our ability." As long as the band tries their best, Jenkins could not
ask for anything else from the band this year.
Happy Holidays!
from
Harvey’s
Flowers
805 8th Street
Saxton, Pennsylvania
635-2018
Use this coupon for 10%
off your next purchase!
Wendi’s Creative
Solutions
A Full Service Salon
700 16th Street
Saxton, PA 16678
814-635-3830
Mon.-Fri. 9-6
Tussey
finds its
beat
It seems like everyone
is dancing at Tussey.
Above: Junior high principal Kevin
Steele and new science teacher
Miss Jessica Reilly join the speaker
for the fall anti-bullying assembly
titled “Rock the Mic.” Photo by
Ashtan Cooper.
Right: Eighth grade student Seth
Baker and Juniata College student
Karla Matamoros, of Honduras,
enjoy a traditional Hondurian
dance. Photo by Mr. Thompson
The Titan Topics
Miscellaneous
The Titan Topics
Upcoming movie
release dates
Will Prince Caspian be
our next guest speaker?
This spring, Tussey students will not have to step
through the back of a crowded closet to get to Narnia (though there has been some argument that entrances to Narnia may actually exist somewhere in the
mess that some students call their lockers). Instead, the
Tussey Mountain Drama Club will be bringing Narnia
to the soon-to-be completed auditorium stage. It will
be the first musical preformance on the new stage.
Look for more information on titantopics.org in the
coming weeks.
Right: Several drama club members practice lines.
11-20-09
Twighlight saga: new
moon
the blind side
Photo by Mr. Thompson
Teacher wins a fish tourney
By Elainea Eess
Stringers Editor
On October 24,
Art
teacher
Mr.
Adam
Baughman
took part in a Pennsylvania Striped Bass
Association tournament. Baughman and
George Buseck got
first. All of the money
that PSBA made during their tournaments
goes to a fund that
helps stock the fish in
Raystown Lake.
Hungry? George Buseck and art
Baughman
and teacher Adam Baughman show off
Buseck decided that their winning catch. Photo submitted
they would take part by Adam Baughman.
in the tournament because they were going to have a team. It was a good time
to try it out. They also like to enter every tournament. The
tournament went from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. Each person could
Page 11
catch two fish. Boat Captian Buseck and Baughman where
finished by 9:30 a.m. They weighed in their fish at 6 p.m.
Baughman's fish weighed nine and 11 pounds, both were 32
inches long.
They had to fish for points,
like NASCAR. At the end of
the year, different awards
are given away. One is given
away for the highest points
throughout categories. Baughman said, "I was stunned to
win. Usually tournaments last
Submitted photo.
46 hours straight, where I have
little sleep."
Baughman is a member of the PSBA. He also helps organize tournaments and activites. Buseck is an Outdoor
Club and Venture Crew leader along with Baughman. "I'd
like to see anglers participate in the Outdoor Club. I think
they would enjoy fighting a game of fish this caliber," said
Baughman. Senior Carl Kyler, an Outdoor Club and Venture
Crew member, had the chance to take part in an activity. He
went striped bass fishing. The PSBA is very supportive of
lake activities.
planet 51
the missing person
11-25-09
the princess and the
frog
me and orson welles
ninja assassin
old dogs
the road
Three more club updates
By Destiny Diehl
Staff Writer
The NHS will be having meetings and
organize projects. The adviser is Bonnie
Jenkins. As always, they will be selling daffodils to support the American Cancer Society this spring. New inductions will occur
in January. To be in NHS you have to be at
least a sophomore with a grade point average of 90 or above.
Ski Club
The Ski Club will be replacing adviser
Mr. Dennis Clawson with Miss Jessica Reilly
this year. Ski dates are January 11, 18, and 25
as well as February 1. The trips are limited
to the first 44 students, so book now!
The money is due November 23, with
checks payable to TMHS.
Contact Miss Reilly or Mr. Young for
more information.
Spanish Club
There are many different activities going on this year in Spanish
and Spanish Club. We are having lots of different trips, parties, and
fundraisers.
So far the Spanish Club has been having a lot of fun learnign about
Spanish culture. They even convinced history teacher Mr.Flaherty
to eat a bacon and cheese flavored cricket.
The trips this year will include going to Juniata College For cooking, dancing, singing, and group activities. They are also going to
Harrisburg to watch a play. They will also be going on the Gateway
Clipper Cruise in Pittsburgh, and travel on three different rivers. A
New York trip to watch a Broadway show, and go to Ellis Island,
and look around in Time Square is a possibility, as well. The parties
they will be having are Cinco de Mayo, El dia los Muetro, and Los
Poscadas. Cinco de Mayo will be on May 5. El dia los Muetros will
be in October and los Poscidas will be during class in December.
Fundraisers they are doing this year will include Gardner’s Candy, Mariana Hoagies, and apple dumplings. The El dia los Muerto
(“Day of the Dead”) party was held on October 30.
Proud Community Supporter
Offering Mobil, Conoco, and Castrol products
P.O. Box 108
Defiance, Pennsylvania
(814) 928-4266
Answers from the back page:
National Honor Society
Dylan Baker creates his own wardrobe in the Spanish room
after school. Photo by Mr. Thompson
Page 12
Parting Thoughts
Name that sport! Crossword
Across
By Rachelle Foor
Staff Photographer
3. “Our sport is your sport’s punishment.”
4. Don’t pin me.
7. Ding.
9. It doesnt look like a foot.
11. Is that a cookie they are hitting
with canes?
12. “Music makes me lose control.”
13. Look out for the flying bat.
Down
1. I’ll run you down.
2. “Fore!”
5. You got served.
6. It’s difficult to breathe underwater.
8. There’s a hole in my racquet!
10. I like black and white checkered round objects.
Answers on page 11.
Juniors Taylor Bivens and Dylan Mock enjoy Le Fête Français.
Bon Jour, National
French week
By Tesla Dodson
French Club President
Photo Caption
Contest!
Caption this picture and you could win
your very own Back Nine shoutout on the
next issue.
Submit your best photo caption, along
with your name, to Krista Swope, Mr. Thompson, Mr. Thompson’s mailbox, or titantopics@
titantopics.org.
Captions due by December 3rd. The winner will be announced by Titan Topics Online (titantopics.org) and appear in the next
issue of Titan Topics.
Spirit Week remembered
Right: Twins Ashley and Alexis Young dress up for Twin Day.
Below: Seven eighth grade students jump for Tie-Dye Day.
This week was National French week. To celebrate, the
French Club did many exciting activities. A daily trivia
game was played throughout the school, with winners of
gift cards to Bubba's. French-themed teacher gifts were
given out every morning. Students went to the elementary
schools to teach the children about the French language and
culture. On Friday, the French classes had Le Fête Français,
a party, instead of having classes. To finish National French
week, students took a trip to Au Petit Paris in Frostburg, MD
to enjoy authentic French cuisine.
Need another break?
Upcoming days off:
November 26 & 27: Thanksgiving Break
November 30: Deer Season
December 1: Professional Development Day (Students
are off of school)
December 24 to January 1: Christmas Break
January 18: Act 80 Day (Students are off of school)
The Titan Topics
The Back Nine
1. Did you hear the one
about--This segment has
been interruped by Kanye
West, who would like you
to know the Back Nine is
not as good as Beyoncé.
2. Don’t Rock the Jukebox! President Nixon had
a pizzeria installed in the
White House but removed
it after a month because
Kissinger was hogging the
jukebox.
3. Are you a wonderful weirdo? This school
year began on Wonderful
Weirdos Day.
4. Don’t shave that face.
November is National
Beard Month.
5. This season’s most
amusing quote: “My
gram’s age changes every
year!”
6. A year-long drought:
the paperwork has finally
been completed and water fountains have been
installed.
7. A special shoutout
goes to Mr. McCahan,
whose supportive loan of
technology resources allowed Titan Topics staffers
to type up their articles.
Where would we be without his generosity?
8. 50 years? Sounds
old. As you may have noticed from the front page,
this is Volume 50. That
means Titan Topics is 50
years old! The staff is hoping for cake and gift cards
as presents.
9. Snuggies continue.
Seriously, pet-sized snuggies? Leopard-print snuggies? Just make it end already!