February 2008 Edition

Star athlete
Page 8
Devinny family
Page 4
Advanced classes
Page 3
The
New play
Page 6
Recycling
Page 5
Tribune
York Suburban High School
Volume 49 Issue 3 February 2008
New plans set for old school
Casey George
News Editor
For the first time in
over thirty years, York Suburban
School District is considering the
construction of a new building at
the currently vacant Yorkshire facility near Market Street in East
York. The school, which is only
in its preliminary design stage,
would help to alleviate the increasing dilemma of insufficient
building space that York Suburban’s growing student population
is presenting.
Perhaps the most unique
aspect of this construction project
is the level of student involvement in the process. In fact, several high school students have
been commissioned by the School
Board to assist in the design of the
proposed building.
These students include
sophomore Matt Barton, junior
Kaila Lehr, and seniors Ryan Barton and Jenna Tomevi. As Kate
Orban, York Suburban superintendent, explained, “They were
extremely helpful to the process
not only with the conceptual design, but also when reviewing
architectural plans from some of
our existing buildings.”
Several East York and
Indian Rock Elementary students
have also offered their opinions on
the design of the school. Among
these suggestions are pod-like
classrooms separated by grade
level, a central interactive media
center that incorporates technology into the learning process,
and the proposition of a single
entranceway to the building – a
practical design suggestion that
would ensure increased security
within the school.
As for the school’s
grounds and play areas, students
offered additional practical design solutions. One such proposal
included the incorporation of a retractable roof built over the playground, a device that would eliminate rainy day “indoor” recesses
and also offer shade to students
during mid-day lunch breaks during the summer.
Should plans for the
school follow through, a reconfiguration of grade divisions would
result. With the addition of the
Yorkshire building, the district
plans to create two kindergartenthrough-second grade schools,
and two third-through-fifth grade
schools. Each of these schools
would hold an average of 300 students.
York Suburban’s evergrowing student population is
mostly to account for the construction of this building. The school
district’s population is estimated
to continue growing exponentially until around 2017. Moreover,
for the first time in the history of
the district, this year’s elementary
student body – at both East York
and Indian Rock – entirely filled
the classrooms available in each
photo by Amy Myers
The Yorkshire Building that currently exists will most likely be torn down in order
to make way for a new elementary building in the York Suburban School District.
The new building will help to create more space for district students.
building. For this reason, the
Yorkshire building would serve
as an additional elementary building, where Suburban’s student
population is growing the fastest.
Perhaps the bigg e s t
question
to arise
from this
construction proposal is
where
the district will
acquire
adequate funding for the
project, which
Dr. Orban estimated to cost
roughly $8 to
photo by Betsy Bedell $11 million.
B e Students like Ryan and Matt Barton have offered their contributions
cause
the
to the Yorkshire Building project by taking an active role in making
school district
decisions concerning the design of the building -- both on the inside
already owns
the Yorkshire
and outside.
property, costs are significantly reduced. Furthermore, this
leaves more money to invest in
the school and its accommodations. And as Dr. Orban insisted,
“[There are adequate funds for
the project] because the Board
Ideally, Orban explained,
“The district may renovate part
of the old Yorkshire Elementary
building if it is economically feasible.”
The building, which is
projected to be completed and
open
to
students by
2010, will
be the first
new school
built in the
district in
over thirty
years
– since the
construction of Indian Rock in 1972. Given the needs of the district, however, it seemingly cannot come
too soon.
So, what can district
members expect from this school
when it’s all said and done? As Orban explained, “A modern school
– [one that is] green friendly with
the latest educational equipment.
[This school] will truly enhance
York Suburban School District.”
“This school will truly
enhance York Suburban
School District.”
- Dr. Orban
and Administration have done
an excellent job planning for the
[Yorkshire building construction].” She went on to add that
“already owning the property is
significant.”
It is currently undecided
if the district will preserve the
Yorkshire building – which was
built in 1925 – or will completely
demolish the existing structure
and build a new foundation.
Opinion
2
Poll: What is your favorite
Nickelodeon or Cartoon Network cartoon ever, and why?
The Wild Thornberries
“It was the only show
where the girl was
smarter than the boys.”
Maggie Kehm,
senior
Dan Johnson,
senior
Ren and Stimpy
“It was funny to
watch them beat
the crap out of each
other.”
Rocket Power
“Cuz that’s my handshake.”
Mitch Kemp,
junior
Tyler Baker,
sophomore
Rugrats
“I don’t know, just
because I love ‘em.”
Katie Johnescu,
senior
Looney Tunes
“It brought variety to
the small screen.”
Rocket Power
“Because the
woogidy woogidy
woogidy woo secret
handshake.”
Rugrats
“I don’t know, I just
like them. They’re
just sweet like that.
Tom and Jerry
“I like the violence.”
Ben Woody, junior
Erin Kerchner, junior
Ryan Mock,
sophomore
Thumbs Up
Basketball
Valentines Day
School
Dancing in breaks
Gym class
Icy
Streets
Games
Mittens
Not getting early
dismissals
SAT prep
courses
Cute Hats
Cold cars
Snow
Candy
Hearts
No New Television Shows
Thumbs Down
York Suburban Tribune Staff
The tribune is published by the students of the York Suburban High School.
1800 Hollywood Drive York, PA 17403
The newspaper, which is deisnged as an open forum, serves to inform and entertain its
readers as well as train students interested journalism. Lettters to the editor are
encouraged and should be directed to Mrs. Bedell. Editors-in-Chief: Bizzy McIlnay and Olivia Frank
News Editor: Casey George
Graphics Editor: Maria Stayer
Features Editor: Amy Myers
Staff Reporters: Julie Jastembski, Cassy
Sports Editor: Mandie Mulcahy
Gray, Cory Andrews, Dahlia Bushwick,
Opinion Editor: Joey Merkle
Lauren Munchel
Layout Editor: Leah Karchnak Advisor: Mrs. Bedell
Graphics Editor: Maria Stayer
February 2008
Optimism
owns all
It would be interesting
to find out what would happen
if one would pay a compliment
rather than make a complaint.
Obviously, the complimented
person would feel better about
him or herself, but there would
also be one less seed of negativity floating around for the rest of
the day. Many students spend so
much time complaining that it
seems they don’t even see what
good there is anymore.
According to the Cambridge University dictionary, optimism is the “belief that good
things will happen in the future.”
Ambrose Bierce defined optimism
as “the doctrine or belief that everything is beautiful, including
what is ugly.” Mark Twain wrote
that the optimist is “the person
who travels with nothing from
nowhere to happiness.” And as
Dwight Eisenhower once said,
“Pessimism never won any battle.”
To the majority of the
student population, this is my
advice: take a negative and make
the best of it. Instead of spreading a rumor, do something nice
for someone else. With a negative
thought, take action. Fix whatever is bothering you. Maybe you
learned something, but you’re too
busy being bitter about it. Recognize that where you are right now
is because of your own actions,
no one else’s.
Sophomore Bret Deller
thinks “the majority of Suburban
students are immature and should
be a little less [like that].” Taking responsibility for actions and
putting others first could really
make a difference in our school.
Immaturity creates all kinds of
problems that could be fixed with
a little seriousness.
It seems that no matter
where one turns in the hallways,
there is always some kind of
drama. Kids spread rumors about
each other, teachers, and on the
rare occasion, themselves. It’s
one thing to talk about another
person, but putting yourself down
is just taking it too far. If it would
hurt your feelings for other people to talk about something, don’t
tell anyone in the first place. All it
does is create drama and tears.
“Drama is a waste of
time. It’s all a fight over something pointless,” said sophomore
Ericka Eckenrode. Sophomore
Elena Nentcheva agrees, “I think
it’s an unnecessary conflict that
could be easily avoided.”
Take the time to think
about what you say before spit-
ting out hurtful words. Rumors
and put-downs break more that
one would think.
Uplift Program, a program that helps many overcome
depression, reported that over
a million pre-schoolers are currently taking anti-depressants.
Depression has increased by 23
percent in children in the past
year, and it can be triggered by
any kind of childhood unhappiness.
There is a growing concern for the physical fitness of
America and our school. But
what about the mental health? In
order to be happy the brain has to
be as healthy as the body. It’s well
known that exercise puts a person
into a better mood, which can be
linked to the endorphin that exercise releases—Phenylethylamine.
However, more needs to be done
than that. Happiness is more
mental than physical, and being
mentally unhealthy can create ailments.
The Uplift Program
states that scientists are currently
linking diseases such as osteoporosis, diabetes, heart disease,
some forms of cancer, eye disease
and back pain to depression. By
being positive rather than negative, the chance for any one of
these health problems lowers.
I challenged some students to make it their New Year’s
Resolution to pay one compliment or do one good deed a day
or more.
In response to my request, senior Chris Gumke stated
that he found a friend with similar
problems and gave him advice.
“Chris was laying on the compliments pretty thick in painting,”
noticed senior Lauren Ferro. She
also related that she has been
much nicer to her sister, sometimes sensing that her sister has
been in a better mood.
It all starts with peer
pressure. If your friends are all
complaining about something
wouldn’t you do it too? What if
they are all spreading rumors?
Try being nice to someone new,
and I bet your friends will all follow. Repress that complaint once
in a while, and eventually you
will stop hating whatever it is so
much. Take the optimist’s point
of view whenever possible, and
eventually it will become habit.
The ideas expressed are not necessarily those of the entire staff,
but are a general consensus of the
editorial board.
Do you want to write for
the school newspaper?
Take journalism!
See Mrs. Bedell in Room 111 or talk to your
guidance counselor for details.
Opinion
February 2008
3
Students debate benefits of advanced classes
Advanced classes overrated
by Cory Andrews
Staff Writer
As students around the country
make their way to achieving a higher education, they are often faced with difficult
decisions. One that begins before the students even enter high school is the matter
choosing what level courses to take. At
academically competitive high schools
such as York Suburban, most-- if not all- classes are offered in a variety of levels
ranging from general to advanced. Specific to YS, most core classes are offered in
general, college-prep (CP), or college-prep
advanced (CPA). For most it’s quite clear
which level class to take, but some straddle a fine line between multiple choices.
The dilemma most commonly
faced is whether or not to enroll in advanced classes. Some argue that these rigorous courses are the way to go, but when
it comes down to it, these classes just
aren’t right for the majority of students.
The biggest argument in favor
of advanced classes is often that they
provide a greater advantage when applying to colleges. While in some cases this is true, the weight those classes
may carry on a resume varies depending on where you attend high school.
“I don’t think taking [advanced]
classes in high school is worth the work
because of the way each high school works
their grading system,” said senior Kylie
Keeney. “What West York considers an
Honors class may be equivalent to a CP
at Suburban.” CP-level classes provide
the material needed while maintaining a
level of difficulty that colleges recognize.
Also, taking a CP class often provides a higher grade-point average than
CPA, which is something else colleges
take note of. “In the long run, colleges
like GPA,” added Keeney. Students who
tend to do well in CP classes are in better shape than those who struggle in CPA.
York Suburban graduate and freshman at
CPA classes worth the effort
Kutztown University, Emily Moul con- by Lauren Munchel
wouldn’t make sense or they could get a
firmed this point: “I got into college doing
bad grade if they are moved up. Guidance
Staff Writer
well in all CP classes. It worked for me and
Counselor Karen James said, “There are
works well for a lot of other students too.”
no firm numbers, but most students in CPA
Throughout York Suburban stu- classes are very successful.” If a student
The common misconception is that students must take all advanced dents are placed in different class levels is truly interested in the subject, whether
classes for them to have any meaning. that supposedly fit their intelligence and it is math, English, science or history and
Doing this, however, often re- commitment levels. Most students are they put in the work that’s necessary, there
sults in an overload. CPA or AP (advanced comfortable in the CP (College Prep) level is no reason why his or her grades won’t
placement) classes should be reserved for classes, but aren’t aware that they have the match the other CPA students’ grades.
those who truly excel in one or two spe- potential to be a successful CPA (College The only thing holding students back
cific subjects and wish to make a career Prep Advanced) student. Taking a CPA from CPA classes is the amount of
in that area. Doing so will show
work they put into it.
college admissions directors
Science teacher Robert
that the student is dedicated to
Laird states that he would recomthat area in contrast to a stumend students to move up to the
dent who may have mediocre
next class level if they are genugrades in all advanced courses.
inely interested in the subject.
In addition, many col
Seventy-two
perleges take into account whether a
cent of the York Suburstudent took a certain class or not,
ban student body pursues a
as opposed to what level it was.
form of higher education.
For example, York
What better way to
Suburban seniors who have
prepare for college than to
passed 3 credits each of math,
take advantage of the classhistory are not required to take
es that most closely resema class in any of those areas.
ble
college
curriculums?
However, it is recom
Senior Zach Adams
mended that seniors planning to
said, “I think it’s a great idea
attend college enroll in a math
to take advanced classes becourse, mainly Calculus. The
cause they better prepare you
student who takes Calculus will
for college.” CP level classes
photo courtesy of http://apps.carleton.edu/reason_package/reason_4.0/www/images/81354.jpg
have a greater advantage over
also challenge students and preone who does not, yet contrary Although many build up College Prep Advanced
pare them for college, but CPA
to popular belief the student who classes as a necessary factor to be accepted into
classes have the pace and diftakes AP Calculus does not ob- a competitive college, others debate that if one is
ficulty of real college classes.
tain an outrageously significant more likely to receive better grades in a CP class,
Senior Lauren Daleedge over the student who takes
mar added, “You get a
then they should drop down a class level.
CP Calculus making the extra
better
understanding
bework seem pointless to some.
cause you’re with people
In this situation, and many oth- class is worth the extra time and effort be- who really care about the subject.”
ers like it, it counts more that the student cause the student gets more out of the class. So, in CPA classes students get someSenior
Amanda
McLaurin thing more out of the class because
made the decision to take a non-required class and challenge themselves rather said that, “Kids are intimidated because they’re with people who appreciate the
than if they decided to take an advanced they don’t think they are prepared well subject and students can also learn not
version of it. There are always excep- enough to succeed. Chances are they are only from the teacher but from the knowltions, but for the better part of the student capable of a lot more than they think.” edge of the other students. James also
body, focusing on excellent grades in CP Students have the common misconception states that, “If a student has the ability,
will create a combination for success. that once they are placed in one level, it take what you’re able to take to grow.”
Wikipedia provides easy access to knowledge
by Amy Myers
Features Editor
Students rely on it for
fast research and quick summaries. Teachers preach against
it for a lack of credibility.
The design of Wikipedia, with anonymous volunteers
sharing their own personal expertise, lends itself to controversy.
However, proponents sing its praises as a
revolutionary source of
knowledge with surprisingly low inaccuracies.
Loved or hated, Wikipedia is undoubtedly unique
in the complexity and
wide expanse of content.
Wikipedia takes
the concept that two
heads are better than one
to the extreme. With over
90,000 regular contributors, Wikipedia represents the
cooperation and consensus of individuals worldwide to create a
free and accessible encyclopedia.
This shared public
knowledge takes the form of
over 9,000,000 detailed articles
ranging from “Paris Hilton” to
“York Suburban High School.”
However, this complex system of interrelated stories represents a greater cultural
revolution by breaking language
and international barriers to
share knowledge and research.
With Wikipedia, knowledge
has become universal, no longer confined to textbooks and
institutions of higher learning.
Wikipedia takes
the concept that
two heads are
better than one
to the extreme.
Because Wikipedia does
not request the credentials of the
thousands of authors who post
regularly, the content of articles
may not be completely accurate.
Through a system of citations, the website attempts to
verify its content. Wikipedia’s
own article notes that “studies
suggest that Wikipedia is broadly as reliable as Encyclopedia
Britannica, with similar error
rates on established articles.”
The possibility of error does
not deter York Suburban High
School students from relying
on the articles for schoolwork.
“I think that the majority of posts on Wikipedia are created by people who know what
they are talking about,” said Junior Derek Shirey, referring to
his own consistent use of Wikipedia as a basic research tool.
“The
sources
are
verifiable,” adds Senior Liz
Scheib who admits to her
own reliance on Wikipedia.
Wikipedia is a just a
part of the even greater, nonprofit Wikimedia Foundation.
The
other
facets
of the Wikimedia are lesser
known, but equally innovative.
Wikiversity is a system of learning projects and
learning materials. Wikimedia
also includes other free parts
like Wikinews and Wikibooks.
photo courtesy of www.wikipedia.com
The Wikipedia website gives students the means of researching a wide variety of subjects. However, due to
the ease in which one can add information to the site,
often that information is faulty.
Features
4
February 2008
Student groups work together to help family in need
by Joey Merkle
Opinion Editor
Some
high
school
students participate in many
community service activities
and programs. Others focus on
supporting one particular cause.
However, few have reached out
and made as great an impact on
peoples’ lives the way some York
Suburban students have with one
particular family in need.
Mike DeVeny and his
wife sacrificed time and money
to change the lives of the seven
Russian orphans they adopted.
Then, together, their lives changed
once again. DeVeny, a chef at the
Yorktowne and teacher at a chef’s
school, was diagnosed with
cancer, which docors diagnosed
terminal.
When Kathy Falatovich,
York Suburban’s German teacher,
heard of what transpired, she
immediately took action. But
she was not alone. Led by
Falatovitch, the German Honor
Society began raising money,
clothes, and everyday necessities
for this family in need.
One donation wasn’t
enough for these students, though.
They were so touched by the
DeVeny family that they wanted
to keep giving. They began to
include other groups of the YS
student body. In the spring of last
year, the German Honor Society
and the French Honor Society
held “Penny Wars” within their
classes, with all proceeds going
to the DeVeny family.
These honor societies
worked with the National Honor
Society to provide the family with
a delicious Thanksgiving meal.
This Christmas, the German,
French, and Spanish Honor
Societies again used a “Penny
War” to create donations. They
raised just under $600 in cash.
In addition, “Several
students used their own money
to purchase gifts or gift cards
for the family,” said Falatovich.
The National Honor Society
also bought gifts for each of the
children.
These gifts ranged
from clothes to the “High School
Musical 2” soundtrack.
The students are not the
only ones who feel compelled to
help this family. Several members
of York Suburban’s custodial staff
have donated money or gift cards
to this worthy cause.
The
DeVenys,
an
incredibly generous and giving
family, are now on the receiving
end of generosity. Clearly, the
students at York Suburban High
School have taken community
service to a whole new level.
Senior
Morgan
Rehnberg is currently involved
with various service projects to
help the DeVeny family through
the National Honor Societ and
German Honor Society. “It is
extrodinarily fulfilling to give to
those in need,” said Rehnberg.
Junior Stevi
Laird
also did her best to support
the DeVeny family last year.
“Madame Gladfelter gave us the
opportunity to help the family by
donating clothes or book that the
children could use. I took the
opportunity into consideration and
I cleaned out my closet. I ended
up donating a big garbage bag
photo courtesy of Kathy Falatovich
The DeVeny family opens Christmas presents donated by York Suburban students.
The DeVeny family consists of seven children, all adopted by Mike and Dee DeVinny who live in the nearby Northeastern school district. The honor societies of York
Suburban High School have gathered together to come to the aid of this family in a
time of need.
full of clothes and a bag of books.
I think this was a great idea to
show how involved our school is.”
Unfortunately, on the
morning of Friday January 25,
2008, Mike DeVeny passed
awayafter his long battle with
cancer. He is survived by his
loving wife Dee DeVeny and his
seven adopted children: Mike,
Viktoria, Lada, Mary, Sasha,
Matvei, Mary and Vika. The
community mourns the loss of
a devoted father, husband and
chef. The honor societies of York
Suburban High School continually
are devoted to providing their
time, donations and services to
the DeVeny family in this time of
need.
Students support their favorite presidential candidate
•
From freshman to senior year, the
number of Republicans goes from 16 to 38
percent.
•
Meanwhile, Democrats drop from 38
to 30 percent between freshman and senior
year.
•
Only 34 percent of students claim to
be Democrats, but 48 percent voted for the
Democratic Obama.
•
38 percent of the student population
is undecided about their party affiliation.
•
In total, 28 percent of students
are Republicans while 34 percent are
Democrats.
Valentine’s Day Traditions
from Around the World
compiled by Julie Jastembski
Staff Reporter
France
Chile
Only adults celebrate Valentine’s
Day in France. Teens don’t usually celebrate it. Adults take their
spouse out for dinner.
Stores in Chile decorate red and
pink. However, most couples
don’t celebrate Valentine’s Day
in Chile.
Features
February 2008
5
Enviromentalism sparks big changes
Math teacher makes biofuel
by Cory Andrews
Staff Reporter
One man has found an
innovative solution to the rising
gas prices. Math teacher Steven
Temple has discovered a way to
create bio-diesel fuel which is
environmentally friendly and cost
effective. Sparked by spiking gas
prices and a neighboring Amish
man who collects waste vegetable
oil (WVO), Temple became
interested and began testing.
“Three friends and I first
started making the fuel over a year
ago,” stated Temple. “We read
articles, internet sites, and most
importantly we experimented.”
The bio-diesel fuel,
which is not the same as gasoline,
is derived from vegetable oils such
as soybean, corn, or peanut oil.
The process involves collecting
the by-product of heating
vegetable oil with a combination
of methanol and lye.
The chemical reaction
between these components creates
glycerin, which settles to the
bottom, and bio-fuel, which rises
photo by Amy Myers
Steven Temple creates
biodiesel at his home in
order to help the enviroment.
to the top. In order to separate
the bio-fuel from glycerin, the
mixture requires a final filtering.
The result is a clean-burning
biodegradable fuel that can be
used for diesel motors as well as
heating homes.
Though the ingredients
(vegetable oil, methanol, and
potassium
hydroxide)
are
rather basic, the procedure can
sometimes be dangerous. “One
should always protect exposed
skin; wear a mask and safety
glasses,” warned Temple.
While the length of the
procedure varies depending on
the volume of production, the
result is very similar to bio-fuel
sold at gas stations. “Bio-fuel sold
at the fuel stations sell a blend of
Biodiesel and petroleum-diesel,
usually a B10 or B20, meaning a
blend of 10% Biodiesel and 90%
diesel,” stressed Temple. “[My]
Bio-fuel is slightly different due
to using WVO versus unused
vegetable oil. WVO is oil used
from restaurants, and unused oil
is slightly more transparent.”
Aside
from
the
satisfaction
of
creating
homemade fuel, the entire
process is convenient, cheap,
and environmentally conscious.
It can be done anywhere, mainly
a backyard, and costs roughly
$2.00 per gallon depending on the
prices of the ingredients.
“For the past year, I
have been using 100% Biodiesel
in my 1984 Mercedes Benz and
for heating my home,” added
Temple.
With
the
growing
popularity of ‘home-grown’ fuel,
one can only hope that the process
will continue to spread. The
increase of cleaner fuel could cut
back on pollution by reducing the
amount of vehicle emissions and
separate waste disposal truck
solely for recyclables. He does
think that the bins strategically
placed throughout the high school
are not being used enough to be
truly effective. This is especially
true in the cafeteria, where many
students drink plastic pint drinks,
but place them in the trash when
they’re finished eating. “The
program is in place, but now it’s
up to students and teachers [to
recycle],” Siple said. Recycling is
a crucial way to extend our limited
supply of resources and doing so
throughout the school will make
York Suburban a contributor
in the efforts to be a more ecofriendly society.
The Eco-Friendly Media
Player doesn’t look much different
than any standard iPod or mp3
player. It’s palm sized with a 1.8
inch color screen and buttons to
switch songs and adjust volume.
But there is a huge difference
between the eco-friendly media
p l a y e r
and other
brands on
the market:
it can be
charged
by simply
winding it
up.
There is a
small crank
on the back,
which
is
wound to
charge it.
One minute
of winding
equals 40 minutes of playtime,
so running out of power should
never be an issue.
Alternately, the ecofriendly media player has a
USB port, making it computer
compatible. On a PC, the product
shows up as an external disk
drive, making files easy to “drag
and drop” into the system.
A variety of files may be
put onto the media player. It plays
music, full color video, photos
and eBooks. All of these abilities
fit easily into the unit’s massive
internal memory. If more space
is needed, memory chips can be
by Olivia Frank
Editor-in-Chief
photo by Bizzy MicIinay
In the cafeteria, the school now offers recycling bins.
fingerprint.
Head
custodian
Michael Siple agrees with the
idea of educating students. “I
think we need to get the word out
to students and teachers to utilize
the recycling bins,” Siple stated.
“[I think recycling] keeps the
world clean and safe,” said Tyler
Knaub, senior. If students and
teachers alike knew more about
the advantages, perhaps they
would be more inclined to use the
bins.
Though they
exist, some question whether the
contents of the bins are actually
recycled. Siple, however, insists
that most of what is put in the
bins is eventually put in the
photo courtesy http://www.allthingsgreen.net
The Eco-Friendly Media Player is just one of the many
recent inventions that have been created to save energy.
added to increase the capacity.
In addition to matching
the capabilities of many common
mp3 players, the eco-friendly
media player boasts other, more
unique, features. Most notably
a built in speaker system, so
headphones become an optional
accessory. Also, it has an FM
radio built in, as well as a high
intensity LED light torch. A
voice recorder comes in handy
for storing
messages.
All
these
features cost
a little over
$200, not bad
considering
the price of
ipod classic
starts at $250.
However,
There might
be an added
shipping cost
since
the
eco-friendly
media player
comes from a United Kingdom
company: allgreenthings.net.
There
are
many
products out there all helping the
environment by using recycled
materials and finding creative
ways to obtain energy.
“The
Eco-friendly
Media Player sounds really
interesting, especially since it’s
good for the environment,” says
sophomore Tang Nguyen. Some
are more critical. Tenth grader
Matt Neighoff comments “it
sounds like a bit of an overzealous
undertaking” but admits to liking
the idea of the crank battery.
YS takes new measures to go green
With the heightened
awareness of global warming,
more and more establishments are
going “green” in order to reduce
the threat on the earth’s natural
resources. In most York Suburban
High School classrooms there are
one or more blue recycling bins
that students can use in place of
the regular trash bins.
Students have always
been encouraged to use these
bins, but most do not know why
recycling is important, or what
their efforts are contributing
to. According to Dr. Jeffery
Kuhn, recycling is cost-saving,
saves landfill space, and helps
us continue to use nonrenewable
resources. “The longer we recycle,
the longer we avoid a crisis,”
stated Kuhn. “Theoretically,
it gives us more time to create
renewable resources.” Dean of
Students Sara Rodenburgh also
sees the value in learning the
proper way to recycle. “I think
it is our responsibility to do all
that we can to reduce our energy
Wind-up music
player saves energy
by Leah Karchnak
Layout Editor
“One minute of
cranking equals
40 minutes of
playtime, so running out of power
should never be an
issue.”
Germany
Hungary
Thailand
Japan
Denmark
Valentine’s Day becomes increasingly popular every year. Students
have the chance to write letters to
each other at school.
Because Valentine’s Day is considered an American holiday, few
couples celebrate it. A few people
exchange stuffed animals.
Students in Thailand give out
heart stickers on Valentine’s Day
and stick them on their friends
shirts.
Females choose their own gift,
usually chocolate. Store bought
chocolate is not a sign of love, so
it is often hand made.
A woman must guess her mysterious suitor. If she chooses correctly, she is rewarded with an easter
egg later in the year.
6
RENEWW aids
Kenyans in need
by Cassy Gray
Staff Writer
In the beginning of this
school year RENEWW sold
Leakey Collection jewelry. Now
RENEWW (Resources Encouraging the Necessary Education
of Women Worldwide) is collecting donations from students
to help families in different villages located near Nairobi, Kenya. This will add to their fundraiser earlier this year when they
sold Leakey Collection jewelry.
The site where the
Leakey Collection is crafted is
located in Nairobi, Kenya and
is not created in a factory setting.
The Leakey family from California runs the Leakey Collection
Company, which was founded in
2002 by Katy and Philip Leakey.
The Leakey family
sells a variety of jewelry that
has been handcrafted by African
women and men, who happen
to be the wage earners for their
families.
“Near the headquarters of the
Leakey Collection, there are
many schools that lack basic
school supplies,” explained
Sara Rodenburgh, Dean of
Students, who founded York
Suburban’s RENEWW. By collecting donations RENEWW
is helping to equip these and
other schools with money and
school supplies.
Donations have already begun to be collected to
help these schools. So far RENEWW has raised over four
thousand dollars and gathered
some school supplies to be sent
to the schools. Although donations
started being collected around
November and December,
Rodenburgh said, “Donations
will be on-going, but we will
be sending our first shipment
soon, probably by the end of
the month.” Rodenburgh hopes
to continue with this campaign
to help the schools in Nairobi,
Kenya.
News
February 2008
Pennsylvania competency
tests loom closer on horizon
by Olivia Frank
Editor-in-Chief
Higher competition in
the work force has forced Pennsylvania to take a look at its high
school curriculum. Today’s jobs
require employees to be highly
trained and have certain pieces of
information ingrained in order to
be proficient.
In lieu of this, the statewide school system is considering
implementing Graduation Competency Assessments (GCA),
which students would have to
take in order to graduate.
Currently, Pennsylvania
requires each of its 501 school
districts to show that they meet
the standards of the PSSA exams.
However, this does not necessarily set a common graduation requirement for all districts.
The state educational
commission also wants to put
the results of both the PSSAs
and the GCAs on every student’s
transcript. Governor Ed Rendell
commented that this testing could
“truly transform Pennsylvania’s
high schools.”
If the tests were to be
implemented, this year’s sixth
graders (Class of 2014) would be
the first to take them. Although
the vote by the State Board of
Education was unanimous in supporting the exams, PSEA (Pennsylvania State Education Association) is opposed. This difference
in opinion could cause a delay in
the process to establish the tests.
Assistant Superintendent
of Curriculum Patricia Maloney
insists that if the decision is made
to make the GCAs mandatory for
graduation, Suburban would do
everything in its power to prepare
students. “I think we’re already
preparing students for these ex-
ams,” Maloney asserted. “We as a
district would make sure our curriculum is structured [to the content of the tests].”
Suburban currently has
the lowest level of students in
York County who do not meet
the state proficiency standards at
a low 15.2 percent. Suburban will
continue to prepare students with
its strong curriculum and will
make any necessary adjustments
to ensure that students walk away
from school with the knowledge
to succeed.
photo by Olivia Frank
If Pennsylvania decides to require Graduation Competency Assessments, students may need to brush up on
their knowledge of the stars and stripes.
New drama club play differs
from past performances
photo courtesy of http://www.commons.wikimedia.org
For the women pictured above, whose lives are
marked by poverty, it can be a struggle to survive.
By selling Leakey Collection jewelry and collecting
donations, RENEWW will help schools in Kenya.
Manbeck nabs
WGAL internship
by Dahlia Bushwick
Staff Writer
This coming basketball
season, a student at York Suburban High School will have a sixmonth internship at WGAL. Recommended by Joe Toren, junior
Madeleine Manbeck will film
assigned high school basketball
games, then edit them and create
one-minute highlight clips.
Toren said “When Maddy was being interviewed by the
assistant news director of Channel 8, he said that her demo tape
was the best student tape he had
seen so far...he had never offered
someone a job on the spot, but
he was going to do it now...that
shows how solid, professional,
and excellent Maddy’s work has
been in video communications.”
Although she is assigned only to basketball games
as of yet, Manbeck’s work could
potentially expand to cover other
sports and fill up the six months. Manbeck, who works in
the York Suburban television studio, said, “This opportunity has
shown me the real internal workings of the television field. I’ve
experienced first-hand how stressful it can be and the importance of
time management due to the deadline driven enviroment.”
In addition to gaining
experience Manbeck said, “I’ve
also learned a lot about the equipment...I’ve had the opportunity to
talk to everyone from photogs to
marketing directors to technicians
about their experiences, which has
certainly taught me a lot about the
field.”
Manbeck is already taking and independent study in
video. She concluded with, “The
opportunity to work for HearstArgyle, one of the top news companies in the nation, has been incredible.”
by Lauren Munchel
Staff Writer
Dramatic, exciting and
mysterious are all words to describe York Suburban’s newest
play, “Murder on Center Stage.”
The play is written by Jerry L.
Twedt, who is best known for
“Murder on Center Stage” but
he has also written “Three Fairy
Godmothers.”
Twedt’s play takes place
inside the theatre of a liberal arts
college. While a storm surges outside, the cast is rehearsing for the
upcoming production of Romeo
and Juliet. The janitor then informs the cast that if they remain
in the theatre, the identity of the
ghost that haunts the stage will be
revealed.
The killer uses lights
and frightening noises to terrorize
the cast, as well as the audience
while he stalks his victims. While
trapped in the theatre the cast
must use their intelligence and
wits to escape the killer’s abusive
grip.
This particular play differs from past YS plays. Juxtaposing “Murder on Center Stage”
with previous plays reveals that
the cast is extremely small. There
are only six women and three men
in the cast.
Also, compared to previous plays with creative and pro-
digious backgrounds, the stage is
bare with very few props. This
will undoubtedly challenge the
skills of York Suburban’s actors
by forcing them to interact strictly
with each other. Play director Paul
Lajkowicz stated why he chose a
play with such a small cast: “The
cast was chosen before Christmas
when bad weather and sickness is
inevitable, so the fewer kids the
better.”
Last year, YS came
together to experience the controversial play “The Laramie
Project.” Lajkowicz said that,
“Students will find that ‘Murder
on Center Stage’ is not as controversial, therefore the entire student body might not be as fascinated.”
Although the play isn’t
controversial, it is without a
doubt suspenseful and entertaining. There is constant action and
intriguing dialogue. Senior Becky
Filer reassures students, “It’s a
really fun play with drama and
screaming and will have you sitting on the edge of your seat by
the end of it.” The play makes its
big debut on Feb. 7 and everyone
is welcome.
photo by Maria Stayer
Senior Katherine Campbell practices her lines during
a practice for “Murder on Center Stage.”
Sports
February 2008
Trojan boys tame the wildcats
photo by Maria Stayer
Three swimmers start in the water to swim the backstroke leg of the boy medley relay.
by Maria Stayer
Graphics Editor
The boys’ swimming
team defeated the Dallastown
Wildcats on Jan. 8 by only two
points, with the final score reading
86-84. This came as no surprise
to swimming coach Dick Guyer,
who predicted this exact score
before the meet.
Going into the last
event,
the
Suburban
and
Dallastown boys’ teams were
tied at 78. The outcome of the
meet was dependent upon a first
place finish by the Suburban 400
freestyle relay team of seniors
Chris Manning and Harry Foster,
and juniors Ian Kruper and Ben
Appleby. The boys secured a
victory for Suburban, finishing
more than six seconds ahead of
their competitors in 3:20.61.
Coach Guyer knew
it would be a tough meet for
the Suburban girls, who lost to
Dallastown 125-55. “For the
girls, I thought it would be really
difficult because Dallastown had
two girl divers, automatically
giving them a ten point lead,”
said Guyer. Excitement and
nerves were high while the
swimmers warmed up and waited
for the competition to begin.
Before the meet, freshman Jessica
Hawk said, “I am feeling pretty
pumped. I am ready to go,” while
sophomore Lexie Tate said, “I’m
really nervous actually.”
Unlike previous meets,
there was no team meeting before
the competition began. Coach
Guyer explained, “It’s already
been said. Now go out there and
do it!” Both the boys and girls
responded to this call for action,
with two swimmers breaking
pool records. Foster set a pool
record for the 100 butterfly in
51.72 seconds and junior Lauren
Schmittle broke two pool records,
with times of 53.33 in the 100 free
and 1:56.36 in the 200 free. Guyer
also noted that “Ben Appleby,
Ian Kruper, and Ben Hassinger
stepped up really well.”
Kruper finished second
place in the 100 butterfly and 200
individual-medley.
Manning,
Foster, Appleby and junior
Kevin Marsteller each had two
individual wins for the team.
For the girls, junior
Jenna Bentz finished second in the
500 freestyle and third in the 200
freestyle. Hawk finished second
in the 100 butterfly and third in
the 100 backstroke. Sophomore
Patricia Manning placed second
in the 100 breaststroke
To
sum
up
the
performance of the swimming
team, Guyer said “We were
spectacular-both the boys and
girls. We came together much
better as a team.”
Teachers work to coach their students, prepare for the classroom
by Cassy Gray
Staff Writer
Many of the teachers
in York Suburban are coaching
as well as teaching, such as
Christopher Rumbaugh, Thomas
Triggs and others. These teachers
are teaching during the day
and coaching in the evening
during their sports season.
Rumbaugh
teaches
social studies and coaches the
York suburban wrestling team.
Teaching and coaching can
be hard but helpful in ways.
“Balancing teaching and coaching
can be difficult because both
require a great deal of time and
energy. However working with
student athlete in the classroom
is beneficial in the athletic arena
and vice versa.” said Rumbaugh.
For Rumbaugh wrestling
is a winter sport but when the time
comes for him to start coaching as
well as teaching Rumbaugh said
“For everyone involved it requires
re-focusing
on
different
priorities
and
working with a
different group
of personalities.”
Rumbaugh said
that he thinks
that it would not
be easy for a
person to coach
a sport without having a passion
for that sport. “I like working
with high school aged studentsathletes. Often they have a great
deal of energy and ability that
photo by Cassy Gray
Tom Triggs doubles as York Suburban High School’s
History Department head and as the boys varsity basketball coach.
needs an outlet which allows
them to achieve their greatest
potential in a manner which
provides a foundation for success
as an adult,” said Rumbaugh.
“It shows that
students are not
just students.”
-Mr. Triggs
Triggs played basketball
during his high school and
college career. Now Triggs
coaches the York Suburban boy’s
basketball team. According to
Triggs, “[Teaching and coaching]
is not hard at all. It gives a solid
relationship with all students
and it also gives positive
feeling in the atmosphere.”
Along with coaching the
boys basketball team Triggs also
teaches social studies. Coaching
and teaching help because, “It
gives you a different perspective
of students. It shows that students
are not just students,” says Triggs.
Coaching does not interfere with
teaching, “It takes time. You
have to prepare ahead, budget
your time and you have to be
extremely organized,” said Triggs.
Teacher coaches have a
lot of extra work that they have
to worry about for coaching
along with the work that comes
Steroids scandal delivers
blow to baseball’s future
7
photo courtesy of armchaircommentary.wordpress.com
Players throughout baseball uses steroids to give themselves and advantage over the rest of the competition.
by Mandie Mulcahy
Sports Editor
The use of steroids
amongst players of Major League
Baseball. In mid December
he released a report naming
the players using these illegal
substances.
“And the exact effect of
using the substances is yet to be
determined. Most believe that the
extra strength helps, but just how
much is uncertain. Whether it’s
10 feet on a fly ball or 30, whether
it’s one homer or 10 in a season,
these are questions that remain
unanswered,” stated Matthew
Leach, author of Steroids’
statistical effect under review.
Names mentioned in
Mitchell’s report include Barry
Bonds, Mark McGwire, Roger
Clemens, Miguel Tejada, and
Andy Pettitte. As a result of this
report 90 players, including the
ones listed above, were suspended,
all for different periods of time.
“Everyone involved in
baseball over the past two decades
– commissioners, club officials,
the players association, and the
players – share to some extent the
responsibility,” Mitchell claimed.
Mitchell’s report also
stated that players were protected
by a “code of silence,” which
kept them untouched for many
years. Players are said to have
been tipped off about numerous
steroids tests ahead of time.
“Overall I don’t feel
Mitchell’s investigation was
purposeful. It ruined the MLB,”
explained
junior
Wickham
Simonds.
Suspicions arose back
in 2005 when Jose Canseco
published a tell-all book claiming
that up to 85 percent of players
used steroids at the time. However,
the public was not willing to face
these facts.
“Baseball needs to clean
out its stable because the stable is
full of you know what, but I think
baseball will go right through this
crisis,” said Fay Vincent, a former
baseball commissioner.
Some players who have
previously failed steroid tests
claim they were unknowingly
given to them by a trainer as a pain
reliever or a muscle relaxer. Other
players simply try to justify taking
steroids because their salary is so
large, it’s almost worth risking
they’re careers.
As a result of this report,
there are some people who feel
that an asterisk should be placed
in the record books by the players’
names who have used steroids.
“I think this is a good idea,”
explained senior Shane Tay. “It
will put a label on the ‘steroid
era’ and make abusers known for
generations,” added Tay.
Lady Trojans host
Holiday tournament,
earn third place
by Julie Jastrembski
Staff Writer
The York Surburban Girl’s
Basketball Team had their yearly
tournament over the Holiday
Break. Their first game was against
the girls from Bishop McDevitt.
It was a close game
but they lost it by only a few
points. “We played well but
we just could not pull out the
win against McDevitt”, says
Erin Kerchner, who plays an
important role for the Trojans.
Because
the
Team
lost the first game, they played
against Fairfield the following
evening. They won the second
game
very
convincingly,
showing a dominant performance
in front of the home crowd.
Because of their efforts,
they finished the tournament in
third place. “We were not exactly
happy about losing to Bishop
McDevitt by four points, but we
crushed Fairfield which felt great. I
do not think we really did anything
badly. The effort was there we
just could not pull over the win
in the first game,” Kerchner said.
Bishop
McDevitt
went home with the first place
trophy, beating Littlestown in
the championship game. Overall,
the team is achieving great
success, despite the fact that
there are no seniors on the team.
Kerchner
anticipates
great things for the future,
“We have definitely seen a lot
improvement over the last years
season. The Juniors are learning
to lead the team and we are
headed in the right direction.”
Sports
February 2008
Anticipated 2008 Olympics go to China
8
by Cory Andrews
Staff Writer
It may seem as though the
Olympics are still years away, but Beijing
is more than ready for the event this
summer. Ever since the city won the bid
to host the Olympics, the Chinese capital
has been building cutting-edge, state-ofthe-art stadiums to host the epic sports
competition.
The buildings have been popping
up all over the Beijing sky-line and most
recently include “The Watercube.” The
structure is a semi-transparent cube built of
textured glass to create the image of water
and bubbles in the walls. The stadium,
which is found in the Beijing Olympic Park,
covers a total floor space of 50,000 square
meters and seats roughly 17,000 people.
This particular project costs $100,000,000
and is the only new building being funded
by donations from compatriots Hong Kong
and Macao.
Found alongside the Watercube
will be the “Bird’s Nest” stadium. As
the main stadium at the Games, it covers
Star Athlete:
Senior Harry Foster
by Mandie Mulcahy
Sports Editor
business. However, he plans to continue
his swimming career as well. “After that I
really don’t know. I do want to learn how
to surf. That is something I definitely want
to [try],” joked Foster.
The York Suburban boys’ swim
team has won states for the past two years
in a row. “I think it’s a very realistic goal.
Similar to most great athletes,
senior Harry Foster began his swimming
career at an early age. He learned to swim
when he was seven and has pushed his way
to the top. Foster’s favorite event is the 100
Butterfly, which is also
currently his best event.
As a freshman,
he contributed to York
Suburban’s win against
Dallastown, who had
won counties for 13
seasons in a row. The
meet came down to the
last relay, in which Foster
participated. He won the
race for his relay and
helped the team to win
photo by Mandie Mulcahy
the meet for the first time
in 13 years.
This year senior Harry Foster hopes to win two
Foster’s
role gold medals in individual events as well as two
model is Jon Rubritz,
gold relay medals.
who previously swam for
Dover and now swims
as a freshman for Florida State. “I used We have a shot at winning it a third time,”
to train with him during the summer. [It] explained Foster regarding the current
taught me a lot of things both in the pool season. “Some of the guys who didn’t
and out I have a lot of respect for him,” make states last year are stepping up this
explained Foster.
year,” Foster continued.
This season Foster’s goal is to
“[As for the future] they still have
earn two gold medals in individual events a good group of guys left. One thing about
plus two gold relay medals for a total of our team is that every year somebody steps
four gold medals by the end of the season. up, improves a lot, and steps into the shoes
Next year Foster will be of a graduated senior. So I am confident
attending Clemson University in South some of the underclassmen, if they work
Carolina, where he plans to major in hard, will step up,” Foster concluded.
more than 200,000 square meters and
accommodates 100,000 spectators. The
Bird’s Nest has been designated to host
events such as the opening and closing
ceremonies, soccer games, and track and
field events.
With additions such as the “Z
Criss-Cross” building and “The Eggshell,”
the new structures help to place China in
the architectural forefront of the world.
Wang Mingxian, deputy chief of the
Environment Art Committee of the China
Construction Culture and Art Association,
expressed: “In recent years, Beijing has
taken big steps in introducing modern
architecture at a high level.”
Proving the nation’s architectural
ability has been a success, but gaining
gold in the athletic competition is high on
the priority list as well. Arguments with
Taiwan kept Chinese athletes out of the
games until 1980. China has since made up
for lost time, coming in three gold medals
behind the United States in 2004.
The modern setting and display
of international talent is sure to set stage
for the 2008 Olympic Games as one to
remember.
by Casey George
News Editor
game could be quite difficult for Swartz,
who loves the camaraderie of her team.
As she explained, “I am really close with
most of [my teammates] out of season, but
during the season, we are with each other
all the time. If we are not together because
of practice or a game, we are usually with
each other anyways. We are a very closeknit team.”
Star Athlete:
Junior Karli Swartz
Despite their struggles in
recent years, the girls’ basketball team
is reemerging as a prominent force in
Suburban athletics. Karli Swartz, a junior
post player on the Lady Trojans Varsity
basketball squad, has demonstrated
particular excellence in her level of play
this season.
Swartz, who has been playing
basketball since the fourth grade – almost
a decade – has been a member of the girls’
basketball team at Suburban since her
freshman year. In addition to school play,
she has also participated on many AAU,
or club, teams throughout her basketball
career.
As for her recent club play, “I have
played on ‘Ville’ [an AAU team] which
was mostly girls from Eastern and one
girl from York Catholic,” she explained.
Swartz was also quick to add, “Of course,
I also play with the York Suburban spring
and summer basketball teams.”
So, what does Swartz anticipate
for the Lady Trojan’s performance later on
this season? “Success! We have already
played most of the teams in our division
once and are getting ready to play each
team again. There were many close games
where we could have won but lost in the
last few minutes. We are prepared to win
the second time around,” she explained
enthusiastically.
When asked of her plans to
continue play beyond high school, Swartz
answered, “I’m thinking about it, but not
completely sure.” Of course, giving up the
photo by Amy Myers
Swartz has been playing basketball since fourth grade. She’s also
played on many AAU teams.
Only time will tell the outcome
of the Lady Trojan’s record. Swartz
anticipates a turnover in performance
during the second-half of the season. As
she explained, “We’re having a tough
first half of the season stepping up, we
are making progress with each and every
game.”
Poll: What sports do you play outside of school?
photos by Maria Stayer
“I do gymnastics at Skyline Gymnastics. I have been doing it for 12
years.”
Michelle Millen,
sophomore
“I play legion baseball. I’ve been
playing baseball outside of school
since I was six. I also play AAU
basketball in the summer.”
Tyler Rohrbaugh,
junior
“I dance at the Greater Dance
Center of York since August. I do
ballet.”
Tara Owens,
sophomore
“I swim at the West Shore Y. It’s
usually 2-2 ½ hours a day. I enjoy
it. A lot of the swimmers on our
team go to the West Shore Y.”
Katelyn Schmittle,
senior