Spring 2011 - Western Wayne School District

Spring Fever!
Fashion tips for the season everybody
loves!
Read all about it on page 6.
All this and more inside & out!
Also inside
Planet Snapshots
8-9
Meet Jeff Smith
10
Casey wins at States!
16
Western Wayne High School
1970A Easton Turnpike, Lake Ariel, PA 18436
Volume 5, Number 3 April 2011
FBLA, a winning tradition
FBLA is a great experience, especially when winning
means a trip to Nationals. Last year the event took place
in Nashville, so students visited Elvis’s home in Memphis
and posed in front of one of his cars, too!
by Maria Ingaglio
According to its website, www.fbla-pbl.org ,
“Future Business Leaders of America-Phi Beta
Lambda is a nonprofit educational association
with a quarter million students preparing for careers in business and business-related fields,” but
according to fellow Western Wayne classmates,
it’s much more than that.
Each year students from around the country
choose to participate in one of 62 business-related events in which they can eventually—after much hard work and determination-- earn
the opportunity to compete at a national level.
Competition starts on the regional level; in fact,
WWHS is a member of Region 22 consisting of
schools in Lackawanna, Wayne and Pike counties. Once they have passed that hurdle, students
move on to compete at the state conference held
each year in Hershey, Pennsylvania.
A select few advance to national competition.
These national conferences are held in a different city each year including Chicago, Orlando,
Anaheim, and Nashville.
Events are broad and varied and range from
Accounting I to Public Speaking II, and from
Cyber Security to Business Calculations. State
qualifiers in Digital Design and Promotion, Allie
Claus and Victoria Irwin, both believe that “No
matter what talents you bring to the table, FBLA
has something you can excel at.”
The WWHS chapter is made up of nearly one
hundred students who are also part of the national Future Business Leaders of America organization and are led by advisor, Ms. Fran Vitovsky.
The success of the WWHS program is credited
greatly by students to Ms. Vitovsky. Junior
Shannon Myers is one such student. “I owe all of my FBLA success to her. Without Ms. Vitovsky’s
own dedication, I would not have made it to Nationals every single year so far.”
To many students, Ms. Vitovsky is the “Star of
the Show.” As a long-time advisor of 32 years,
she dedicates countless hours all year long preparing her students for competitions. The best
part of advising is helping students prepare for
the performance events. “My favorite part is seeing the students’ confidence grow. With lots of
practice, their nervousness turns into confidence,
and they become successful,” Ms. Vitovsky said.
Winning is something WW seems to do easily
when it comes to FBLA. In fact, although WW
has always been successful, during the past 1012 years, the chapter has been especially prominent in sending a delegation of 12-17 students to
the national conference rather than just a handful
of students, as most other schools do.
Why is this so? Ms. Vitovsky believes the answer lies in the motto, “Success breeds success.”
In other words, winning becomes a tradition.
Generation after generation of FBLA competitors-to-be have watched their older brothers and
sisters succeed patiently waiting for their chance
to perform on this large stage.
“My biggest FBLA motivator during my freshman year was watching my two older siblings
excel in FBLA. Just as any other sibling would,
I wanted more than anything to be better, therefore, giving me the drive to work harder to be
better,” sophomore Elizabeth Curtis said.
Last year 16 students competed at the national
conference in Nashville, Tennessee. There, students not only competed but also were able to
tour the cities of Nashville and Memphis. Visit-
ing Elvis’s home at Graceland, the famous Peabody Hotel with its ducks, as well as a musical
sing-along tour of the city of Memphis were all
part of last year’s trip.
“An FBLA trip to Nationals isn’t something you
can talk about briefly. It’s an entire week of fun,
competition, and best of all, making life-lasting
memories,” Region 22 President Joseph Ingaglio
said. Through FBLA, members gain life-long
skills that they will carry with them throughout
the rest of their lives. The opportunity it provides
creates and boosts self-confidence, work ethics
and even team work. Making an enormous impact on students around the country, as well as
locally, FBLA is by far, one of the best activities
a student can experience in high school.
Maria Ingaglio, Nick VanLeuven, and Cora
Orehek are dressed in their business-best for
competition.
Planet Wildcat
OPINION
Page 2
April 2011
Editorial
by Harry Harrison
‘Sticks and stones will break your
bones, but names will never hurt you.’
In reality, name-calling is hurtful & dangerous
•
•
•
•
•
•
“You smell! Get away from me!”
“You’re weird!”
“Don’t talk to me!”
“I hate you!” “NO ONE likes you!”
You’re such a loser!
Did you know?
“Bully victims are between 2 to 9 times more likely to consider suicide than non-victims, according to studies by Yale University. . .
According to statistics reported by ABC News, nearly 30 percent of students are either
bullies or victims, and 160,000 kids stay home from school every day because of
bullying.” - bullyingstatistics.org
Unfortunately, these are some of the few very hurtful phrases that are thrown around the halls of high school daily. Words, although inanimate objects, can be extremely hurtful, and the message in the familiar children’s rhyme is not true. Name-calling hurts. We’re told all
the time to “just” ignore people who make fun of us, but sometimes it’s extremely hard to do, especially when it happens every single day. It
makes you not want to walk down a certain hall, or even to go to school, just to avoid that person who makes fun of you.
As a high school student I have heard my share of name-calling and bullying. Most times we just sit back and watch others get made fun of.
But we should be asking the question, why does anyone deserve to be bullied? The answer is no one does - ever. Why then do we sometimes
sit back and allow it to happen?
I am not proud to say that I have sat back and watched helpless kids get bullied by several people at once. At the time I felt it wasn’t my
business to step in or say anything. Therefore, I didn’t. Not until the very next day when I saw those same kids bullying the same helpless
person, did I want to say something so badly that I finally did. As I started to approach them, the bullies (who perhaps saw me coming) left
before I could say anything. The helpless kid started walking away, and in his eyes was a look no teen should have in high school. He was
petrified, and with a terrified look on his face, he put his head down and walked away.
I sat there watching him just walk away, and I knew “This kid needs help!” So I yelled to him, “Hey, buddy, come here.” His head lifted up
very slowly, as if he didn’t even want to look at me. He slowly turned and said, “Yeahhhh?” in a most intimidated voice. I told him to come
over to me, and he slowly walked forward. He was walking very cautiously, and I could see he was afraid. I asked him why he let those kids
do what they had done to him. He didn’t want to talk about it, so he simply denied it. There was no denial though. I had witnessed it! I said,
“Hey, kid, I saw what happened,” and at that point he broke down. There was a tear in his eye as he explained everything. He told me that it
was “fine” now, that kids mess with him all the time, and he was used to it. He then asked me, “Can I leave now?” I was honestly choked up
listening to this student tell me about his experiences getting bullied. So I reached out and put my hand on his shoulder. I told him that if he
ever needs anything, any time, that I’m always around and will help with anything. The look on his face when I told him that was absolutely
priceless.
To know that you can make someone who looked so depressed look up at you with the biggest smile is a great feeling. It’s a lot better than
the feeling you get after calling him a name - that’s for sure. Some people may have never witnessed bullying or may not have witnessed it at
school, but it is still here, in our own school whether you see it or not.
No one hangs up a “Caution, wet floor” sign if the floor isn’t wet, and similarly no one would put up “No Bullying” signs all over our school if
there is no bullying. In a recent survey in Mrs. Morgan’s English class, almost every student said that he or she had been bullied at some point.
That’s right: 25 out of 28 students admitted to this.
Frankly, this needs to stop. Instead of calling someone a name, or shoving them, or book-knocking them, give them a compliment, or just
say hi and give a smile. It makes a world of difference! Instead of ignoring or laughing at those “Stop Bullying” signs, join in to actually stop
it in our school.
Let’s actually fill those Acts of Kindess jars up for once. Bullying isn’t necessary, and our school will have such a better environment without
it. Just think twice next time you go to call someone a name. Step forward to stop bullying when you see it. If you are hesitant to act alone,
find a friend or group of friends to help you.
Planet Wildcat
1970A Easton Highway Lake Ariel, PA 18436
(570) 937-4112 EX. 3104
Reporters & Photographers: Ashley Padula, Katie DeVito,
Amanda Pritzlaff, Mark Yamialkowski,
Christina Gabriele, Maria Ingaglio, Markel McConeghy,
Courtney Masker, Lauren Clark, Shaun Howard, Carole
Rosenbergen, Samantha Burge, Harry Harrison, Giovanni
Clark, Paige Debastiani
Advisor: Mrs. Marianne Morgan
Tutoring and homework help
Help is available both during the day and after
school. Students who would like help during the
day should see their guidance counselor to set it up.
Those who would like to remain after school must have a permission slip which is available in the office.
Claws & Paws
by Ashley Padula
PAWS to the Spring-like days in February
PAWS to the “superfans” at the girls’ and boys’ basketball
senior nights
PAWS to the wrestlers for a great season
PAWS to having President’s Day off
PAWS to the tasty smoothies in the Clawset
PAWS to NHS’s planned field trip to Boston
PAWS to the start of Spring sports
PAWS to those who are committing “Acts of Kindness”
CLAWS to cold weather after the tease of warm temperatures
CLAWS to an overcrowded library during 4th period
CLAWS to every school spirit banner being taken down in the
gym
CLAWS to not having enough pretzels in the cafeteria for
everyone who wants one
Planet Wildcat
OPINION
April 2011
Page 3
Homework: Too much of a good
part-time job. When you are at home you should
thing?
have that time to yourself. That time should be
COMMENTARY by Katie DeVito
H
omework. Do you ever get that
feeling of being so overwhelmed to the point
where you don’t know how you will ever get
everything done? You have to do chores, go to
practice, do well in school, get enough sleep
and try to balance a social life. That’s a lot to
handle. Homework tends to be just another
thing added to this seemingly never-ending
pile of things to do. It’s not surprising most
students tend not to do it, or give it the effort
it deserves. That brings up the important question: Is homework really a good thing?
We go to school for seven hours out of the
day. If you add in an after-school activity that
means you could be at the school for more
than a third of your day. Do you really want to
go home and busy yourself with things related
to school? Most of us have other things to do
outside of school, such as chores or even a
used sharing memories with family and friends,
or exploring other interests, not doing the same
things you did all day. Homework just adds to
the stress we already deal with in our everyday
lives.
The average high school student has about
two hours of homework a night. A lot of this
work is more repetitive than challenging. Isn’t
the point of a good education to be challenged?
Seven hours is a long period of time. Shouldn’t
we be able to learn all we need to in that time
slot? Homework’s main purpose is to help us get
practice with new topics we have learned during
the day. Isn’t the purpose of coming to school to
learn? Why must we also learn at home when we
spend so much time sitting in class?
Another case against homework is the thought
of “experience.” Some things can just not be
learned unless you experience them yourself,
such as what we are all truly destined to do. We
teenagers need to learn some lessons in life outside of school, in our own lives. How can we
learn and bloom into young adults if we spend
all of our time learning about pi, homeostasis
and other things that very well may not affect us
in our future? A lot of learning is curiosity. I ,
for one, do not possess much curiosity about a
mathematical constant or an organism’s ability to maintain equilibrium by adjusting its
physiological processes. Let’s face it, not all
of us are destined to be brain surgeons. Not
all of us get excited at the notion of a biology
project or a research paper for English. Some
of us just don’t get a kick out of it. We should
be allowed to explore what we truly like in
our free time instead of spending endless
amounts of work that may not mean much of
anything to us.
The most important case against homework
is time for sleep! Some students take it all on;
out of school activities, a job, family time,
and still strive to do all of their homework. I
know many people who do not go to bed until after midnight because they have so much
work to do.
See Page 5
WW SPEAKS:
For New Years, people make resolutions
to change. With that in mind, how have you
changed since the New Year?
“I asked for help
when I needed it.”
-Aubri Heaslet, 10th
grade
Photos and interviews by Markel McConeghy
“I have been
doing my homework
more.”
- Candice Moser,
10th grade
“I have improved on
my British accent.
- Jaqui Judson 12th
grade
“Mine was to drink
less coffee, and I failed
miserably.”
“I have talked to new
people that I haven’t
ever talked to before.”
- Mr. Zoppi,
Teacher
-Brittney Tobin,
12th grade
Planet Wildcat
FEATURES
Page 4
P oet’s
S oul
April 2011
children’s poem
author
prose poem
My Paintbrushes
author
Allie Poltanis
We move in similar ways, acting on impulse, driven by the mere
emotion that makes us move, or with premeditated decisions, ones
with great thought and meanings that require searching for. The
paintbrush’s actions truly do speak louder than its words. Swish. Swish. Swish. The
paintbrush moves up and down, from left to right, throwing its frustrations onto an empty
space waiting to be filled with color and life. We speak through color and image, not
through black and white or print.
My Princess Dress
Rachel Yamialkowski
My princess dress was pink.
It had some scary spots of ink.
My sister used to wear
T h a t p r i n c e s s d r e s s w i t h p r i n c e s s h a i r.
But then she got too old,
And she decided to be bold.
And I got that pink dress,
That lovely princess dress.
I always wore that dress.
Of course, I knew I looked the best.
I wore it day and night.
Tr y t o t a k e i t , a n d I m i g h t b i t e !
It got some rips and tears
Which Mom had always fixed with care.
We are inconsequential to some, yet the world to others. Thrown away when too destroyed or too weak, or cherished and praised - your choice. The paintbrush can look fresh
and new, with an essence that can make the work of others look inferior. The paintbrush
can look old and worn, with uses way beyond the point of exhaustion. However, one
should note that if the paintbrush appears so worn, it would be only because it has been
giving its all to help others. We are what we are. Through our creations, we make you
happy, make you mad, or make you sad. Whether used for small tasks or for large, it does
not matter, only that we are in motion. We will never be changed.
Once in motion, we will not stop, like a ball rolling down a hill. Art is our lives, our
reason to be. Without it we would not be needed; we would feel no need to be. Together
we are continually creating - destroying - creating - destroying, never truly satisfied with
the “final project.” Using movements, colors, shades, we portray what we cannot say.
What lies underneath - underneath the bristles and the dried paint? What lies underneath
the jewelry and the make-up? Underneath is a body yearning to create . . . to paint.
Then one day it got ruined.
Oh, dear! It was not good lookin’!
I thought that I would die.
For hours, I sat, and, oh, I cried!
My princess dress was gone.
It lay in pieces on the lawn.
Then I saw Dad pull up,
In our old beat-up red pick-up.
He got out and looked down,
And pulled out a sparkled gown!
The dress was super green.
I was an extraordinary queen!
I have a princess dress.
It is green and simply the best!
What’s your favorite music to listen to
when just hangin’ with friends?
by Samantha Burge
Bryanne Burns, 9th grade: “I like to listen to Drake, Lil Wayne, Train, and Eminem. I just don’t like to listen to screamo when I’m with friends.”
Wayne Gilligan, 12th grade: “I like to listen to heavy metal a lot. My friends and I love how pumped up we get!”
Zach Jones, 12th grade: “I listen to Lonely Island, T-Pain, and Lil John. It’s good dance music!”
Harry Harrison, 11th grade: “When I am hanging out with my good friend, Jonathan Brady, we both like to listen to Trey Songs and Drake.”
Caitie Bortree, 9th grade: “I like to listen to country music when I’m with my girls because we listen to it every chance we get!”
Jamie Schlau, 11th grade: “It depends. I have a wide variety of music that I like, so when I’m with my friends I try to listen to types of music we
have in common. You can enjoy the music better if your friends know all the words.”
Christa Heinle 11th grade: “I like to listen to any music I can dance to or sing to when I’m with my friends. The artists and groups we like to
listen to are Metro Station, Kesha, Akon, Taylor Swift, and Glee.”
Kelly Russo, 9th grade: “I most like pop because my friends think it’s so much fun to listen to and dance around to!”
Tyler Gale, 10th grade: “I like to listen to rock or metal, like Bullet for my Valentine, with my friends. We mostly listen to the same bands.”
Victoria Lanza, 10th grade: “I usually listen to rap music with my friends. But it all depends on which friends I am with or what day it is.”
Planet Wildcat
FEATURES
April 2011
If you HAD to
Choose. . .
by Paige DeBastiani & Giovanni Clark
Peeps
or
Jelly Beans?
Adam Smith: Peeps! I once ate 100 Peeps in one sitting!
Tyler McKinney: Jelly Beans because they make my stomach
happy.
Flip Flops
or
or
or
Walking?
Alyssa Caucci: Bike riding because it’s a better workout.
Billie Jean: Walking because it’s easier.
Shamrock Shake
or
Chocolate Shake?
Mike Green: Chocolate because Shamrock Shake tastes bad.
Olivia Funk: Shamrock Shake because it’s minty.
Sandals?
Mickey Killian: Flip Flps because they’re easily accessible and
comfy.
Mrs. Marquette: Sandals because of more support.
April showers
Bike riding
Page 5
May flowers?
Leprechaun
or
Easter Bunny?
Kevin Karabin: Leprechaun because it’s Irish, and so is Mr. Gill.
Mr. Hayden: Easter Bunny because he never disappoints!
or
Andrew Green: April showers because flowers are stupid.
Courtney McDonald: May flowers because I love flowers!
Painted Eggs
St. Patrick’s Day
Danielle Swingle: Painted eggs because they are easier.
Cody Wash: Deviled eggs because they are so good!
or
Easter?
Ronald Mrsich: St. Patty’s because Easter isn’t fun.
Mrs. Orlosi: Easter because we have a big family gathering.
Raincoat
or
Umbrella?
Chris Coligan: Umbrella. Raincoats are weird!
Cory Franc: Umbrella because it’s easy to carry.
Baked Ham
or
Deviled Eggs?
Ham and Cabbage?
Jonathan Brady: Baked ham because I don’t like cabbage.
Jerry Sherrer: Baked ham because cabbage makes you ....!
Creative Trash, innovative recycling
Creative Trash, a recycled art exhibit by WWHS art students, is currently open at The Lackawanna College Environmental Institute. It is intended to bring ecological awareness to the
community. It helps to reinforce the need to reduce the amount of trash we produce and to
reuse items that would normally be thrown into a landfill.
Teachers Suzanne Flynn and Justin Hayden had the idea for a recycled art project after noticing how much waste was simply being discarded. Recycling is great, but it is not a perfect
system since it requires a lot of energy to convert the recycled items to new products. Junior
Abby Carmody found it inspiring to reuse the discarded material for art.”It shows people you
can make something out of nothing,” she said.
The artists were given the opportunity to select the non-traditional material of their choice
and create whatever their imaginations and skills could conjure. The exhibit includes paintings, sculptures, and collages made from recycled cardboard, paper, plastic bottles, and old
electronics. “I enjoyed using magazines for my artwork,” junior Lauren Clark said. “Before
this project, I would never have thought of using scraps of
magazine pages for my mosaic.”
The Institute is
open from 9 AM
to 4 PM, Monday
through
Friday,
and admission is
free.
The WW exhibit
will be on display
until April 8th.
Photos courtesy of Mr. Hayden
Juniors Abby Carmody and Lauren Clark made mosaic from strips of old magazine
pages. Sophomore Brittany Bollinger used found objects such as wood, wire, and broken
ceramics to create an abstract sculpture.
When homework is
just too much...
From Page 3
If a student who goes to bed at one or two
o’clock in the morning gets up at six, he or she
has slept very little. Lack of sleep has some
very serious consequences, including, but not
limited to fatigue, lack of physical energy,
stress, pessimism, slowed reaction time, lack
of concentration, and even issues with metabolism. Those are some serious consequences to
staying up an extra few hours to finish that load
of work. Also, staying up extremely late does
not enable a person to do his or her best work.
Your homework will be poorly done and you’ll
be in a grumpy mood. That sounds like a pretty
bad day to me.
In all reality, homework can be a positive
thing. It helps with responsibility and self-discipline, which are good qualities to have and
practice in life. Future employers look for such
qualities in purposed workers. So, homework
isn’t all bad. I’m not necessarily proposing a
total disappearance of it from the school system. I am, however, promoting that homework
be less intense for the sake of the students. Our
everyday classes should be more focused on
what we need to learn so that we can live our
lives outside of school in addition.
Planet Wildcat
Page 6
FASHION 101
FEATURES
Out with
the cold and
in with the
warm!
very likely to choose
a blazer for herself.
“I think blazers look
cute, but not on me!”
For those who do
like the look of blazers, this season offers
many choices. Try
one with a lace pattern, cheetah print,
or even a plain color.
You can find these in
nearly every clothing
store.
We’ve got ‘Spring Fever’!
Unleash your inner
‘crazy’!
by Christina Gabriele
It’s now time to pack away the bulky and heavy
winter clothes. Spring is finally here! Many new
creative looks are now available. Over the past
year, winter coats have become lighter and less
bulkier, and as weather grows warmer, the trend
continues. You can, therefore, expect smaller
and lighter jackets and sweatshirts. Many stores,
such as Charlotte Russe, have designed cute and
fashionable jackets and more for less money!
Leather jacket or shrug = perfection during
those somewhat cool Spring days!
Start shopping and you will find a variety of
leather jackets and anoraks that range from just
$30 to $60! Many stores such as Aeropostale,
American Eagle, Target, and more are also starting to sell shrugs. These cute wraps come in
many colors, patterns, and designs. They range
from $15 to $35 depending on where you shop.
Who can go wrong with an original trench coat?
April 2011
Many tops and tank
Photo by Giovanni Clark
tops are also available in crazy patterns
including cheetah and April showers really do bring May flowers! floral! Some are even Senior Betsy Olsommer is definitely ready for all that warm weather
embellished
with brings.
sparkles. Again, howspice up your outfit, add a scarf! Scarves come
ever, they are not for
everyone. For example, junior Jill Masgula rules in many colors and patterns. When it’s cold and
out florals. “My grandmother wears floral prints, rainy, walk outside in a cute pair of rain boots!
so I think it makes people look older,” she said. Many rain boots can be found in bright colors
and patterns. Sophomore Leann Vogelsberg
loves the look. “Rain boots add a flare to outDon’t be afraid mix patterns and fun colors!
fits, especially when it’s actually rainy,” she said.
• Leopard goes with anything as long as the For an inexpensive pair in the $15-$30 range,
visit Walmart, K-Mart, or Target.
colors and brightness match.
• Orange or yellow florals in a medium to small
print look fresh and new, and they will look good Oversized sunglasses and purses are also big this
year. You will find over-sized sunglasses everywith neutrals or tiny patterns.
• Polka dots are easy to mix with florals and where you shop! Purses this spring are bigger,
too, and available in many colors.
other prints.
• Stripes are also easy to mix.
Experiment a little and you’ll find just how easy
Since your legs have been trapped by jeans or it is to be fashionable during those wonderful
pants, it’s time to release them! You can find warm weather days!
many skirts that have new patterns. One trend
is the mix of flowers with other prints. You can
wear these skirts with patterned leggings or with
It’s time to shop!
no leggings at all. You are sure to find cute and
Planet Picks
affordable skirts at Charlotte Russe that range
from $10 to $40.
This year trench coats are popular in both short
and long lengths. The trend is toward color, so
you are sure to find these coats in vibrant hues
such as pink, orange, purple, and more. In fact,
the top five colors of 2011 are pink, bright orange, yellow, tropical blue, and lavender. Even
white has become a popular trend! If you don’t
like to be looking bright, go with a traditional If you don’t like that store, many other stores
have similar styles. While you’re shopping, look
color such as white, brown, or black.
for fun print dresses as well.
Also, you can find many patterns including plaid
or stripes. Burlington Coat Factory has a great You can also accessorize your dress inexpenselection of trench coats and other spring jackets sively. If you have a wide belt, attach it around
that range from $30- $60. Other stores like K- the waist and top it off with a light or small jackMart, Target, JC Penney, and Kohl’s also have a et. You can add other items of clothing or accessories at your home.
good selection.
Blazers with ruffles, prints, colors, and other de- Feeling chilly?
signs can be found in many stores. You can find
blazers with long, short, or elbow length sleeves. When you feel chilly, put on a pair of jeans. This
Ruffles and flower prints have become more season you will find many jeans to in the 70’s
style. Some are high waisted or flared. If
popular over the year.
you don’t like these, try skinny jeans or
“Blazers can be worn as
normal fit jeans. You will find a wide variNothing says Spring
a jacket, or something
ety at stores like Wal-Mart, PacSun, Target,
like a vibrant trench
to keep yourself warm,”
Old Navy, Macy’s, Aeropostale, American
coat! Choose from
suggested junior Rachel
Eagle. Cropped khaki pants are also in but
just about any color
Bartron about the new
in a new, looser, Bohemian style.
of the rainbow: pink,
trend of layering.
orange, purple; the
Accessorize with flare!
options are endless!
Although many teens
Most of this season’s jewelry is oversized
love this style, it isn’t
and also patterned. Earrings, necklaces,
for everyone. Junior Saand rings remain popular. If you want to
mantha Parr said she isn’t
Tiered Peplum Skirt,
Charlotte Russe, $22.50
Men’s anorak,
American Eagle,
$59
Retro Oversized
Sunglasses,
American Eagle,
$11.62
Rain boots,
Target, $24.99
Planet Wildcat
April 2011
The Reading Room
FEATURES
Page 7
‘What are you reading now, Western Wayne?’
by Frank Juhasz
William Rennekamp, 9th grade: Lord of the Rings. I would recommend this book if the reader likes Medieval settings,
fantasy and fiction.
Book Tip of the Month
Mrs. Tylutki’s Pick: The Elegance of the
Hedgehog by Muriel Barbery.
Cameron Chism, 10th grade:
The Lovely Bones. It connects to the author’s background
and past experiences as a rape victim.
James Tinklepaugh, 11th grade:
A Brave New World I enjoy dystopian novels [that explore political or social issues, science and controversy].
Cassie Wolf, 10th: The Gift
I enjoy mysteries and fiction, and this book is a great read.
Mrs. Petrosky, librarian:
Beautiful Darkness
It’s an interesting meld
between both natural and
supernatural worlds.
Elizabeth Sledzinski, 10th grade: The House of the
Scorpion It’s really interesting. I never wanted to put the book down. It was set in
the future which gave me a neat outlook on things.
Elizabeth Curtis, 10th grade:
The Giver
It takes you to another world and lets your imagination
wander. I really enjoyed it!
Nate Packer, 10th grade:
Arguing with Idiots
I’d recommend this book to give conservatives key ideas
about why spending is bad.
Victoria LaBoy, 11th grade:
The Last Song
It’s a very touching, heartfelt story
which is very close to life.
“Therefore, I am headed slowly toward the
date of June sixteenth and I’m not afraid. A
few regrets, maybe. But the world, in its present state, is no place for princesses. Having
said that, simply because you’ve made plans
to die doesn’t mean you have to vegetate like
some rotting piece of cabbage. Quite the contrary. The main thing isn’t about dying or how
old you are when you die, it’s what you are
doing the moment you die” (26).
Mrs. Tylutki writes: Twelve-year old Paloma’s
captivating voice balances the other narrator’s,
a middle-aged widow, Renee Michel, the concierge of Paloma’s apartment building in Paris.
Their alternating narrative creates a touching,
if bittersweet, friendship among these two
characters and the new resident in the building, a cultured Japanese businessman, Kakuro
Ozo. The characters’ philosophy of the world
and people gives the reader a fresh, and often
witty, perspective on education, friendship,
and the importance—or unimportance—of social class.
Mrs. Tylutki adds that this book is even better
to listen to on audio because the book’s reader
is “fantastic!”
Patrick Miller, 9th grade:
The Lord of the Flies
I would recommend this book because it is a story of adventure,
and it teaches a lesson that children need their parents and rules
to follow in order to survive.
Barnes & Noble’s
Best Books for Teens List
Freshman Patrick Miller, right, enjoyed, The
Lord of the Flies, one of the required novels
in his English class this year.
“I am twelve years old, I live at 7, rue de Grenelle in an apartment for rich people….Well, the
fact is I am very intelligent. Exceptionally intelligent. Even now, if you look at children my
age, there’s an abyss between us. And since I
don’t really want to stand out, and since intelligence is very highly rated in my family—an
exceptionally gifted child would never have a
moment’s peace—I try to scale back my performance at school, but even so I always come
first. You might think that to pretend to be
simply of average intelligence when you are
twelve years old like me and have the level of
a senior in college is easy. Well, not at all. It
really takes an effort to appear stupider than
you are” (23-4).
Photo by Frank Juhasz
Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins
Revolution by Jennifer Donnelly
Torment by Lauren Kate
Before I Fall by Lauren Oliver
The Scorch Trials by James Dashner
Clockwork Angel by Cassandra Clare
I Am Number Four by Pittacus Lore
The Necromancer by Michael Scott
For the Win by Cory Doctorow
Trash by Andy Mulligan
Planet
Page 8
FEAT
April 2011
‘When we look back...will we still remem
Photo Story by Giovanni Clark
with assistance from Ashley
Padula, Emily Funk, &
Courtney Masker
It’s day 100+. . .
and school is in full swing
When walking through the halls of WWHS in April, you
are guaranteed to hear and see a great deal. This is the time
of year when the band is readying for parades and competitions, theatre students are practicing for the annual musical,
and just about every class has a fun activity underway. From
making projects for Shane, to painting murals for the art show, writing autobiographies, and dancing in foreign language class, everyone seems involved in something!
As you scan the photos that grace these pages, you’ll see that there is a lot of learning
underway and many memories being made in our school right now!
Future Career and Community Leaders of America
(FCCLA) students have planted an organic garden in Mr.
Kobeski’s classroom in anticipation of moving it outdoors
as soon as weather allows. Members Alley Roberts and
Sally Petrilak have been busy caring for the starter
garden.
Senior artist Kaitlin Jones works
on a project in art class. Seniors
are now busy preparing their
displays for the May art show.
Visiting the very busy Clawset after school is
fun for students who stay for activities such as
band and play practice. Mark Yamialkowski,
far left, and his sister Rachel along with friend
Shannon Croney (above) buy snacks from student ‘employee’ Homer Hollister who clearly
enjoys his position as cashier.
Meanwhile Chelsea Miller and Delia Gavin
pause for a photo break while enjoying their
hot drinks. The Clawset was refurbished as
part of a Special Education project and is run
largely by Mr. Bershefsky and Mr. James.
Seniors Josh Parry left) and Kenny Knecht
(above), hard at work in their technology class, are building a trailer for hauling
firewood. Classes like theirs allow students
to investigate areas such as woodworking,
metalworking, and building trades. Students who take these courses usually find a
large opportunity for employment or study
at a technical college.
Wildcat
TURES
April 2011
Page 9
mber everything we learned in school?’
s
s
- Vitamin C
WWHS
Proud!
WW’s Mock Trial team, right, is
advised by middle school teacher
Mrs. Shannon Jackson. She
praises team members for “really
moving forward” this year with
older students helping freshmen
members “find their feet.”
Sophomore Kaleb Davis, who
greatly enjoyed mock trial, especially appreciated the mood at the
event. “Even though it wasn’t a
real trial, when we were on the
stage, I felt the pressure of doing
my part for the plaintiff.”
Front: James Tinklepaugh, Katie Herbert, and Tanner Gillette
Rear: Lena Campisi, Ashley Lindow, Kaleb Davis, Nathaniel
Packer, Jacob Silfies, Thomas Lodini, Katie DeVito, Matt Poska,
and Ian Fairclough
Clothing and Textile student
Samantha Giombetti, who is
interested in a career in fashion
design, put together this eyecatching Roaring 20’s display.
“This is a charcoal piece of a
lion which symbolizes power in
my senior art display,” artist
Peyton Stanko (left) explained.
Hands-on science is where it’s at.
Just ask anatomy students Jacqui Judson and Sarah Wildenstein, left, who are using a microscope to examine red
blood cells.
Who wouldn’t be
proud to display this
artwork? Mosaic
and sculptures made
from recycled items
are shown here by
artists Erica Young
and Jen Quick.
Foreign language class is fun when the
topic studied is dance. Pictured are
Cora Orehek with Johnny Rhodes, Tyler
Murphy with Ruby Rivera, and Josh
Serafin with Leah Krompasky. Even
Mrs. Orner, Spanish teacher, right, with
Juan Rivera, can’t help but have a great
time once the music starts.
Musician Charles
Rennekamp (below,
left) was found in the
band room, practicing
his trombone along
with other members of
the low bass group, not
pictured.
The band will
be traveling to
Florida in
April where
they will
perform in
the Disney
Parade!
For junior culinary students
Andy Ormison and Jonathan
Brady, Nutrition and Fitness
class was a good pick. “I like
this class because I’ve learned
a lot of nutritional facts such as
the amount of fiber in different
foods,” Jonathan said.
Making this beautiful quilt was
an obvious (and
amazing) success
for sophomore
sewing student
Shantelle
Sawyer. Her
quilt was one
chosen by Mrs.
Carmody for
display in the main
office.
Planet Wildcat
FEATURES
e’s a football player, student leader, &
all-around great guy!
Page 10
H
ff
e
J
t
e
e
M
h!
t
i
Sm
April 2011
Bits & Pieces
It would probably be nearly impossible to find anyone
at WWHS who doesn’t like senior Jeff Smith! all about
Jeff ...
Jeff is a friendly guy who always has positive attitude and a
hello for any friend or teacher he happens to pass in the hallways.
Who is the teacher he is
Would you like to know a little more about Jeff? He was born
on December 2, 1992 and is 18 years old. Jeff has two younger brothers, Timmy, 8 and Kyle, 14.
most inspired by?
“Mr. Rebar. He taught me a
good work ethic and prepared
me for harder work as the
years went on.”
Jeff keeps busy by being involved in many extra-curricular activities. These include football, track and field, weight-lifting, and the National Honor Society.
Some favorites:
Book: Born to Run
Color: Blue
Drink: Chocolate milk
Food: Pizza and hot
wings
Subject: Anything in the
area of science
Movie: Remember the
Titans
Team: Steelers
Jeff’s favorite memory?
“Beating Honesdale my
junior year in the Shrine Bowl
against Honesdale, the first
Shrine Bowl Western Wayne
has ever won!”
“I’ve enjoyed all of the activities I’ve been involved in,” Jeff
said, “but without a doubt I’ve enjoyed football the most because I enjoy the competition and having
fun with my friends.” Jeff, who was a captain
this year, has played offensive line and defensive line. “I played linebacker previously, and
I’ll probably play it in college, too,” he explained.
In addition to seeing Jeff around the halls of WWHS, you might also recognize him from his job at the
Hideout Ski Lift. Jeff enjoys skiing, so the job is a great one for him. “I ski all the time, even on my
breaks,” he said.
How does Jeff spend his spare time (when he can
find some!)?
He likes to hang out with his friends and play video
games. “I would say I’m best at Madden which is not surprising since it’s a football game,” Jeff said.
FUTURE PLANS include attending Misericordia University to earn a doctorate in physical therapy, an intensive program that he is already accepted to.
WHERE DOES HE WANT TO BE IN TEN YEARS? “I
hope to have a steady job and to be living around
here making a nice amount of money!”
The best lesson this great role model has learned? “Don’t procrastinate, and
don’t give up!”
How would Jeff like his classmates to remember him after graduation?
“As someone who worked hard, had fun, and accomplished his goals.”
His role model? “My parents. They have taught me a good work ethic and how to be respectful. They raised me right!”
Family is everything to Jeff, who is close
to his two younger brothers, Kyle and
Timmy.
What motivates Jeff?
“The dream of going to college and being successful in life!”
Jeff gives this advice to freshmen football players:
“Lift weights! Don’t stop trying, and don’t give up when it gets hard.”
What’s the best advice Jeff has received here at WWHS? “Mr. Rebar told me that high school goes by quickly, so I should make sure I do all of my work. That advice has been very useful to me.”
Planet Wildcat
FEATURES
April 2011
Dear Love Lady,
by Amanda
Pritzlaff
Page 11
key. Girls like that sometimes, you know. It can
make us feel special and secretive. Probably try
to get her number first, although, it seems like
you might be on the right track towards that already. If people start to gossip, don’t mind it. It’s
just like school where they have nothing better to
do! Also, try to keep your crush as separate from
your job as possible, because a busy and stressful day at work for one or both of you could send
the wrong message to the other, even if you’re
only mad at an annoying customer!
people like him, and he might not be that open
to outsiders right now. He might just be trying
to fit in.
If you do like him though and you can be
yourself around him and maybe flirt a little, you
just might be able to break through to him. Who
knows, maybe he’ll think that your being different from him is interesting and attractive. Maybe he will think your stick figures are visionary
pieces of art. Good Luck!
Love, Amanda
Love, Amanda
Dear Love Lady,
I’m a senior and, as all seniors must do, I’m
making a decision about the college I want to go
to. I’ve narrowed it down to two local colleges
that are pretty much perfect for me to get the
education I desire. There is one problem though.
My boyfriend has already picked the college he
wants to go to, and it’s neither of the ones I’m
trying to decide between. I want to be with him,
but he’s going far away. I don’t know what to do.
Confused Collegiate
Submit your letters to the Love Lady in the
Planet Wildcat box inside the library entrance. All letters must be suitable for school.
Responses are all in fun. Advice is neither serious nor professional.
Dear Love Lady,
I know a really cute artistic boy from another
school. He has gauges and wears a beanie and
can draw and take pictures like nothing I’ve ever
seen before. Needless to say, that is hot, and I
Dear Love Lady,
really dig him. I talk to him sometimes when
I work with a girl I really like. She just doesn’t a group of our friends is hanging out, but he
know it yet. Sometimes I think I can see her doesn’t seem that interested. Instead, he seems
checking me out from the corner of my eye while to like this girl who is like the female version of
she’s serving a burger, and she’s always espe- him. She’s a really great artist, too. He’s sweet
cially nice to me – never forgets to ring me out to me, but I think it’s the artsy girls who really
with the Employee Discount. I want to ask her catch his attention…and I can’t draw to save my
on a date or flirt with her a little more at work, life! How do I get him to be into me?
but I know my place of employment is full of
Stick Figure Drawer
gossipers, and I’ve heard that relationships in the
workplace end badly. What should I do?
Dear Stick Figure Drawer,
Lonely Delivery Boy I think I know the kind of guy you talk about,
and to be honest, I think they are becoming a bit
stereotypical lately. However, I do love the artisDear Lonely Delivery Boy,
tic quality because we girls seem to be running
First off, I can say I totally understand what out of good sketchers or sculptors to be crushyou mean by feeling hesitant about making a ing on. How unfair! Chances are, if he is most
move at work. If that’s the only place that you interested in a girl like him, then I am pretty sure
see her, you should probably flirt but keep it low that his identifiable style of dressing is to attract
Just Spit It Out!
by Courtney Masker
Q: If you were condemned, what would your “last meal” be?
A: Ribs!
Q: What Hollywood celebrity would you like to meet?
A: Johnny Depp!
Q: If you were rich, on what would you spend your money?
A: Everything!
Q: If you could be a cartoon character, whom would you like
to be?
A: Scooby Doo, a girl version!
Q: If you could choose, what time would you live in?
A: The 80’s!
Q: If you could trade places with a friend, who would it be?
A: Larissa Castanaro.
Q: If you could have a job in any profession, what would it
be?
A: Forensic Science.
Q: What other country do you want to live in?
A: Italy
Q: What was your favorite year of high school?
A: Freshman.
Staff
R
60 seconds with senior Amanda Bowden!
Q; What book would you have liked to be a character in?
A: Twilight.
Dear Confused Collegiate,
This is a big decision a lot of seniors all over
the world have to make. It essentially comes
down to what you value more, your counterpart
or your education. Not to have a biased opinion, but a lot of people go with the first choice
and often break up in college, then what? They
aren’t going where they truly want, and because
of all the new people their ex has met, they are
single now. It’s best to look out for your own
best interests. Remember that nothing is more
important than your education, as you will be on
the campus you choose for at least a semester.
Love, Amanda
Profile
by Courtney Masker
Meet Mrs.
Jessica
McLaughlin,
English Dept.
Education:
The University of Scranton:
Bachelor of Arts Degree in
Communications, English, and Philosophy
Masters Degree: Secondary Education
Position: English Teacher
(Academic Literacy)
Hobbies: Reading, writing, swing
dancing.
A few of my favorite things:
Author: Jane Austin
Movie: Freedom Writers
Store: NY & Company
Color: Purple
Food: Italian
Quotation: “Really great people
make you feel that you, too, can
become great.” - Mark Twain
Planet Wildcat
FEATURES
Page 12
A look back at
Our teachers, once students, too!
April 2011
Mrs. Carmody’s
senior portrait
Back when I was in high school ...
by Maria Ingaglio
We’ve all heard them…the stories about our own teachers when they were our age. Most of the time, teachers insist that
they were the perfect students and had excellent behavior when they were in high school, but that’s highly unlikely.
Let’s take a look back at some of our favorite teachers.
A 1982 graduate of WWHS, Family & Consumer Science teacher Mrs. Colleen Carmody was extremely involved in her
spirit-filled school. Throughout her four high school years she was a class officer and was even class president her junior
and senior years. Her friends called her “Sip,” because of her last name “Siepiela” and she was in a group called the “Pucker
Street Gang,” which consisted of her fellow classmates that lived on her street. Mrs. Carmody participated in various activities around the school including cheerleading, softball, and NHS. She was also a gymnast. As a senior, she was voted
Homecoming Queen. Listening to “Foreigner” on her old eight-track tape player was another of her favorite things to do.
Although Mrs. Carmody may have seemed like a goodie two shoes, she had a different side to her as well. “As a joke, a few
friends and I completely rearranged the office of our guidance counselor at the time, now Superintendent, Mr. Falonk. Luckily, he liked us, so we only got a slap on the wrist and a long lecture.”
English teacher Mrs. Grace Walsh, who was known in high school as “Gray” (short for Grace), also graduated from Western Wayne. Around the school, Mrs. Walsh could be labeled as “The Artist.” For her senior project she painted the mural at
the Lake Elementary School Library and art room. She was a member of NAHS, as well as the older version of FCCLA. Even
though Mrs. Walsh dressed in a very unique way, underneath it all, she was a total dork who was afraid to get into trouble with
anyone. Parents, teachers, you name it, Mrs. Walsh was scared to get into trouble with them. Despite this, she still wanted to
attract a few people’s attention. “Trying to impress a boy, I thought I would look like a dork if I used a brake driving my car,
so instead, I crashed into a barn.”
English teacher Mrs. Marianne Morgan was known as being shy while in
GAME?
high school, even though she always had a lot of fun with her own group of
Mrs. Carmody….Most Spirited
friends. Just like she is still doing today, she worked on the school newspaper
and was also a member of the Future Homemakers of America. Mrs. Morgan
Mrs. Morgan....Most Likely to Win
admits that she used to skip school every once in a while to visit the public
the Pulitzer Prize for Writing about
library to read old magazines, which sparked her interest in the Kennedy
the Kennedys
family. Between her sophomore year and senior year, she read a total of 46
Mrs. Walsh...Most Artistic
books about the Kennedys. Mrs. Morgan recalls, “When I graduated, I was
given a very nerdy class night award. (Everyone gets an award.) Mine was a
dictionary, and the accompanying poem was: ‘Marianne likes to write short
stories. In the future, she hopes to write for glory. So to help make her writing dreams come true, she can use this dictionary
in college, too.’ I was kind of embarrassed because it was such a geeky award, but now I think it is funny, and I still have that
dictionary!”
Mrs. Walsh on her
first day of ninth
grade.
Mrs. Morgan
in ninth grade
‘New’ Clawset, snack shop and much more
by Ashley Padula
“Have you stopped into our new
store yet?” is a recurring question
asked by Mr. Bershefsky, one of the
managers of the recently renovated
Clawset.
The Clawset has recently opened
up its door to welcome in students
for the remainder of the school year.
After much time and a plethora of
creativity, the Clawset that was
once known as a place to buy only
the simplest of snacks, has been
transformed into a completely new
center of attraction.
At the beginning of the year,
students most likely
remember walking by
the door and glancing
inside to see an entirely empty, newly painted gold room. As the
weeks went on, a few
more glances would
take place to see the
progress being made.
New cabinets were
hanging on the walls,
and before everyone
knew it, there was a
checkout counter.
In the meantime, during all three
lunches there was a table outside of
the cafeteria where students were
able to vote on the store’s name. If
they wanted it to be changed, they
could put their idea on the piece of
paper and if they didn’t want the
name changed, they could have
circled the option of keeping it the
Clawset. By popular demand, The
Clawset has kept its original name!
Freshman Tanner Gillette thinks
the store is “pretty convenient.” This
is because the store isn’t just a place
to quench your thirst or fulfill your
snack needs. The store also serves
as a place to purchase any school
Jeremy Clark, junior,
smiles as he pours himself a tasty smoothie in
the new Clawset; meanwhile freshman Homer
Hollister chooses a fruit
juice to quench his afterschool thirst.
Photos by Ashley Padula
supplies you may need. You can
purchase binders, folders, posterboard, sketch tablets, pens, markers,
colored pencils ($1.25), calculators,
tape, glue sticks (10 cents), and even
White-out for any mistakes you
make when using your favorite pen.
You can even purchase a Wildcat
Waver or a t-shirt, if you please.
As you pick up your new binder
for math class, don’t forget to purchase a Creamsicle Smoothie! For
only two dollars, the tasty smoothies will fulfill your cravings and
leave you feeling satisfied with
your purchase. If you’re not in a
“smoothie mood” or if you just
prefer a different type of beverage,
you can also purchase a cup of cof-
fee for one dollar!
If you are the type of person who
has a hard time making up your
mind, the decision just got tougher.
You may purchase a bottle of water
or a bottle of juice, also! Before you
leave, don’t forget to grab a snack
for later. The favorite of many,
Clodhoppers, are sold in the school
store along with Doritios and Sun
Chips. Each of these snacks is just
60 cents.
Stop in and check the store out!
Grab a coffee in the morning from
7:10 - 7:50 AM. If you miss that
chance, check it out during lunches.
11:20 am - 1:20 PM. Grab a snack
after school from 3:00 - 4:45 PM.
Don’t miss out!
Planet Wildcat
FEATURES
April 2011
Page 13
Projects on display
Senior Projects showcase students’ talents in and out of the classroom!
Alex Snyder gives back to U.S. soldier
Alex Snyder’s senior project was so large and tedious that he had to recruit the
help of his classmates, but Alex was proud to be taking on the huge job. His
task was to repair a Chevrolet Cavalier z24 for wounded Afghanistan war veteran,
Mike Kacer. The project was first to be a simple engine swap, but it turned out
to be a complete rebuild. The project was deeply appreciated by Mr. Kacer, who
presented Alex with a plaque of appreciation from the U.S. army. Mr. Kacer was
having trouble finding someone willing to undertake the daunting project, but he
was lucky because Alex Snyder is willing to do just about anything for our country’s servicemen!
Student earns Eagle Scout with project
The graduation project was possibly more important to senior Tim
Plaza than it is for the typical senior. This is because Tim’s project
also earned him the important award of Eagle Scout! For his project, Tim led a team of volunteers in restoring the band’s trailer. The
trailer is used to store instruments while traveling. Tim and his team
of helpers first removed old shelving and replaced it with new shelving
and coat rack. They then painted the outer trailer. “I have a strong
connection to the band, and I feel this was a way to give back to them for all of the memorable experiences I had while part of the band,” Tim said.
Woodworking makes for
one great project
For hunter Brandon Zdziarski, making
a gun cabinet for his senior project was
a perfect choice. Brandon put in more
than 50 hours completing this outstanding project. From finding a design, to
cutting the wood to finishing it with stain,
varnish, doors, and lights, Brandon worked for more than two months! He
used skills gained in woodworking classes and is happy now to display this
beautiful reminder of his high school days.
by Maria
Ingaglio
Raphael’s
future plans
include hopefully attending
the University
of Pennsylvania to major in
psychology. Age: 18
Family: Brother
Joseph and
sister Maria
Parents: Ray and Lisa
Resides: Lake Ariel
Favorite quotation: “The only thing to fear is
fear itself.” - Franklin D.
Roosevelt
In Step with
Raphael Ingaglio
1. Tell us about wrestling and FBLA!
FBLA has helped me a lot in applying for college and scholarships. I have
placed at State competition all four years of high school, and I also received
the opportunity to go to Nationals my sophomore year. I am hoping to end
my FBLA career on a strong note by going to Nationals for my Business
Presentations event.
I’ve been wrestling since eighth grade. My success has been up and down,
but I set my sights on finishing top three at Districts and making it to Regionals. Even though I have only been wrestling five years, I found a sport that I
will enjoy my entire life.
2. Where do you see yourself in ten years?
I see myself having a PHD in Psychology and working on starting my own
practice.
3. What is one of your favorite high school memories?
Going to Team States for wrestling my junior year. We all worked together as a team
and achieved what we had set out to do.
4. What have you gained the most from FBLA?
FBLA has taught me that the best way to achieve something is to take calculated risks.
5. Who is your biggest inspiration?
I don’t believe in people inspiring others. The only person who can truly motivate you
is yourself.
6. If you could tell one thing to underclassmen, what would it be?
Make sure to challenge yourself academically. If you say you’re going to take an AP
or Honors class, do your summer work. Saying you don’t have time is a lame excuse.
Planet Wildcat
Page 14
FEATURES
The ‘ardent’ tunes of April
April 2011
This month we will chat about the accomplishments of past musicians, how music influences musical
preference, and the incorporation of art into music.
April, derived from Latin Aprilis, is the month of mystery. April Fools’ Day introduces the month with surprises that may
be pleasing or troublesome, depending on your actions previous to the holiday. The funniest anecdotes of April are the
ones of close friends teasing each other with bursting bouts of wit and laughter. April, one of the most deceiving months
of the dozen, has the duplicity to turn over the most prominent musicians and mock them. At this point in the year, people
ponder about the decisions they’ve made and overly second guess themselves. For most, choices cannot be reversed by
any means. With music, people may enjoy the deceiving month of April by interpreting messages in more than one way,
whether beautiful or grotesque. April withholds remarkable and bizarre happenings from past to present.
April 1st, 1970: The “Woodstock” movie premiered in Hollywood.
April 13th, 1970: Led Zeppelin became the first band to sell out the Montreal Forum.
April 1st, 1983: Kirk Hammett joined Metallica.
April 13th, 1985: “The Grand Ole Opry” debuted on television.
April 1st, 1991: Rod Stewart was surprised on stage by Elton John, who was wearing a dress.
The month has delivered several worthwhile album releases such as:
April 17th, 1965: The Who, The Kids Are Alright
April 6th, 2010: Slash, previously of Guns ‘N’ Roses, releases self-titled solo album, Slash
April 13th, 2010: MGMT, Congratulations
April 12th, 2011: Foo Fighters, Wasted Light
Amidst the triumphs and releases of musicians, fervid supplementary artists were bore.
April 1st, 1971: Clifford Smith (Method Man)
April 16th, 1977: Akon (Aliaune Damala Dakha Bouga Time Puru Nacka Lu Lu Lu Badara Akon Thiam)
April 8th, 1979: Alexi “Wildchild” Laiho (Children of Bodom)
My musical preference for the month of April is fulfilling and enjoyable, yet inspiring for the future. Bands such as 311, the Red Hot Chili Peppers,
and Sublime bridge the gap between winter and summer seasons, stimulating blood flow among my veins and preparing me for the most entertaining
and boisterous months to follow. These bands mesh the repetitiveness of daily life with the ecstasy of summer to bring adrenaline onto the scene. If one
desires to feel the same as I do, anticipating summertime, I reassure them to desire the works of 311, Sublime, or the Red Hot Chili Peppers.
Art and music, two of the greatest features of the world, have, in modern times, become that of the same family. Anywhere art remains, music remains,
and the contrary. Musicians are considered musical artists, as they paint pictures with words and musical notation. Graphic artists draw and design
portrayals while listening to music. If you feel that you need ideas for a picture that you must complete or just want to draw out of boredom, entertain
yourself with music to comfort and inspire your inner artist. Musical artists don’t only make their own music, but they feed off of other works, such as
paintings, sculptures, and symphonies. Remember to consider all art with an unrestricted, open mind.
Incorporation of art into music and the surreptitious logic: Any outsider may ask, “How do you incorporate art into music?” The answer is simple:
Close your eyes and picture what you hear. Any picture is art; therefore, images in your head are considered art. If you continue to ask why music
and art go hand in hand, take a look at any album cover. A band may define its title by words, but behind the booklet is an artist who designed the text
and layout. Musicians paint pictures with their words or sounds, and this is the reason why art and music are so closely intertwined. The logic hidden
beneath music is the ability to picture what you write or desire to write. If you can do so, challenge yourself and best describe it in your own words;
otherwise, stick to playing an instrument or listening to music. Always consider art a privilege and music a necessity.
A Life’s Interest in Music…
This month I’ve asked James Tinklepaugh about how music has impacted his life; His response was as follows:
“Shaun, music is to our world what love is to families; without it we lose our true purpose in the world and we lose reason to keep pushing through the
day. Without the beauty of music, the senses become dulled, for all of our senses are directly and/or indirectly affected by music. Though they may not
be published works, all the sounds of everyday life resonate positively throughout our subconscious. If every day one wakes up and walks out the door
to the joyous chirping of birds, the day shall be a little bit brighter. Music to me is a way of life. Musical genres range from classical, with Mozart and
Bach, to Hip Hop with Rihanna, and Rock ‘n’ Roll with Led Zeppelin. Rap, country, soft rock, reggae, and jazz are also very popular forms of music.
All of these genres execute their own style. Classical music flows through our minds with dynamic sounds such as pianissimos (soft) and fortissimos
(loud), and crescendos (gradually loud) and decrescendos (gradually soft). In Hip Hop you may find a very up-beat tempo, inspiring one to dance,
while in Rock n’ Roll, rebellion has found its groove in fighting the “Man.” It is music that allows us to express our emotions through melodic phrases
and articulation of dynamics. Bob Marley has brought to us the song, “Don’t Worry,” which, through smooth reggae rhythms, flowing lyrics, and a
resounding message, teaches us that even if life has you down, there is still hope. A song like that is really mellowing because of its relaxing tune and
inspirational theme. Music unites us, music frees us; music doesn’t just impact life, it is life.”
Lopatofsky awarded scholarship; Karnick wins fellowship at PJAS
Attending this year’s Jr. Academy competition most likely meant a lot to all of the participants, but to sophomore Cameron Karnick, it was a particularly meaningful experience. This
is because Cameron was the recipient of this year’s prestigious fellowship to the Community
Medical College in Scranton.
The application process included the completion of a 500-word essay and submission of
transcripts, a letter of recommendation, and an independent research project, culminating
with an interview. As a fellowship recipient, Cameron will spend two days working with,
and observing, medical staff at the college. Since he has set his sights on a future career in
the medical field, the fellowship is sure to be a memorable and important experience.
Mitchell Lee, Isabella Espositio, Allie Hess, Cameron
Karnick, Hannah Peifer, Josh Gershey, Kristen and
Kevin Lopatofsky, and Elizabeth Curtis competed.
Cameron placed first for his PJAS experiment as did Hannah Peifer, Josh Gershey, and Isabella Esposito. Mitchell Lee, Kristen Lopatofsky, Kevin Lopatofsky, Elizabeth Curtis, Allie
Hess, and Christie DeVito also participated. Kristen received a $2,000 scholarship per year
for a total of four years to Wilkes University.
Planet Wildcat
April 2011
FEATURES
‘Green is Good!’ say design students
about their ‘recycled shirt’ project
by Amanda Pritzlaff
Going Green with fashion was fun for Sewing
When the average
and Design students, Jen
person thinks of “recyQuick (below) and Katie
cling,” visions of huge
DeVito (right).
plants and big green
dumpsters
separating colored glass from
newspapers and plastics probably comes to
mind. However, there
are much more appealing ways to recycle
that are definitely more
stylish.
Maggie displays her “Find
For example, take into
me on MySpace” design
account Mrs. Carmowhile classmate Katie shows
dy’s eighth period sewher unfinished shirt which
ing and design class.
will be laced up the sides
One of the assignments
with ribbon.
is to take two t-shirts,
combine and redesign
them into something else. So far the task is proving to be a surprising skill building
experience for the girls.
“The goal is to reconstruct, reuse, and redesign,” Mrs. Carmody said. The project
is meant to instill the skill of –not only seeing- but understanding how clothes are
put together. This is an essential trait for anyone serious about designing and tailoring clothing. Mrs. Carmody explained that it teaches “the elements and principles of
design, like line, color, shape, and balance.” She is pleased that her students have
utilized these guidelines with creativity and flair.
Jennifer Finkle, 15, has worked diligently on making a halter top. “It’s not hard but
time consuming. We had to figure out a lot of things ourselves,” Jen said. The class
took a trip to Salvation Army to choose the two t-shirts they’d be working with and
have learned quite a bit since then.
“It’s intimidating because I’m adding ribbons to close the side of mine,” says Katie
DeVito, 15, whose funky taste shows through her modified rocker tee.
Maggie Williams, 15, was among the first to finish her shirt. The style of her longsleeve tee, a short sleeve with detailing and another shirt’s sleeves added, is recognizable. “I like cutting and tying the sides of shirts. I got the idea from my friends,”
she said. Many girls at WWHS have used this cute tactic on their spirit day shirts as
well. Maggie’s tee says “Find Me on MySpace.” When asked why, she smiled and
responded, “It was popular when I picked it!”
Overall, the girls in Mrs. Carmody’s students have learned a lot from this project
which includes, not only putting together, but taking apart –also a very creative way
to recycle. Jen put it best when she said, “You have to use your imagination first, and
then your skills, to put the two pieces together, but it comes out looking like a totally
different thing!” It seems that another man’s “trash,” dropped off at the Salvation
Army, is becoming a group of girls’ treasure, and hopefully, an A+.
Page 15
News in a
minute!
National Honor Society: NHS members participated
in Daffodil Days at the Honesdale Armory on March
15th. Students helped to sort flowers for delivery in
Wayne County. For more than 35 years, the American
Cancer Society has marked the beginning of Spring
with Daffodil Days with proceeds benefiting the society’s fight to cure cancer and aid cancer patients.
The Technology Student Association (TSA):
Students recently attended the Region 9 Conference in
Quakertown. Sixteen high school students qualified for
state competition to be held in April. Their advisor is
Mr. Landry. Winners are as follows: 1st Place: Shannon Myers, Olivia Funk, Veronica Witt, Ellen Clauss,
Katie DeVito, Samantha Giombetti, Jacob Saar and
Isabella Esposito; 2nd Place: Nick VanLeuven, Josh
Serafin, Patty Slattery, and Abby Hemmler; 3rd Place:
Josh Gershey, Logan Wilkins, Ryan Troiano; 4th Place:
Sarah Hampton.
Hedden named ‘Distinguished Finalist’ for outstanding community service
Principal Mr. Patrick Sheehan congratulated Tara Hedden, a PA Distinguished Finalist
in the Prudential Spirit of the Community
Award Program.
Senior Tara Hedden was one of only eight students in the state of PA to be designated a Distinguished Finalist in this year’s Prudential Spirit of the Community Award Program. The program is
designed to recognize young people across the nation who have completed outstanding community
service projects. The award program is sponsored by the National Association of Middle School
Principals, and this year more than 29,000 students applied. For her project, Tara raised more than
$1,000 to support the Crohn’s and Colitis Foundation by organizing a team to participate in a local
walk, sponsoring a Mother’s Day Brunch, selling awareness bracelets and hosting a dress-down day
here at WWHS.
Tara, who suffers from Crohn’s disease, wanted to raise funds as well as awareness of the disease
by reaching out to the community and local media with her activities. “At the time of my diagnosis,
I had never heard of Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis, but then surprisingly I met six other students from my own school who suffer from Crohn’s. I knew then that I had to help raise awareness
and support for research,” Tara said.
Tara will receive a Bronze medal at a school board meeting, and she also received a leather-bound
award of recognition from Pennsylvania Senator Lisa Baker. Tara has been an active volunteer for
many years. In fact, she was one of the founding members of the WWMS CATS Club. Currently,
Tara is president of SADD and also active in the high school’s CATS Club. Tara’s future goals include majoring in nursing at East Stroudsburg University. She also plans to continue her work for
the Crohn’s and Colitis Foundation.
Planet Wildcat
Page 16
FEATURES
April 2011
Fuller sees dream fulfilled at States
“States was simply exhilarating, just a
great atmosphere,” Casey said.
He was ecstatic about the amount of support he received. Signs decorated the halls of
school, local businesses put displays up, and
there were even some Wildcats who took the
trip to Hershey to watch Casey compete. He
is also thankful to his family: his two brothers, Morgan and Beau, who are on the team
with him, along with his dad who is a coach.
Casey is now the fifth best wrestler at his
weight in all of PA! He has lived an athlete’s
dream. States is over, but Casey’s career
isn’t. He will most likely attend either Edinboro University or the University of Southern Illinois to continue his education and his
career on the mat.
by Harry Harrison
Every athlete in Pennsylvania dreams
about playing for a state title in Hershey,
PA. It’s a dream only the best will live.
The road to Hershey is not easy. It takes
months, even years, of practice and dedication. Senior Casey Fuller has lived that
dream.
When asked about his preparation, Casey
described it as intense. He said that he
prepared for States the same way he has
prepared his whole life. “I spent countless
hours training, eating right, and practicing
for the road to Hershey. Every match I
wrestled I took as just another match.”
Action shots! Casey got his Pin and
won with just 18 seconds left! The score
was 5-1!
HE’S GOT GAME!
For Casey Fuller, going to
States meant spending countless hours training, eating well,
and practicing. “States was
simply exhilarating!” he said.
Snapshots! Casey took
time to pose with Coach
Dante Terenzio (above),
with his brother Beau in
front of the Giant Center
(far left), with his family (below) and with “his”
cheerleader, Mallory Minor
(left).
Mallory tells this story:
“When Casey came to WW
two years a go, I told everyone that I wanted to be his
cheerleader because he was going to make it to States, and
now he has!”
Standing proud! Casey takes his place on the podium
as his dream of winning at States comes to fruition.
Photos courtesy of Mallory Minor and Mrs. Fuller