The High Post Volume 96, Issue 5
A Publication of Greater Latrobe Senior High School
Spreading Christmas Cheer
December 2018
GLSH Choir and Band cast off the holiday season with a joyful noise
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Photos by Anna Bisi, Photo Manager
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Merry Christmas Maddox
THE HIGH POST Greater Latrobe Senior High 131 High School Road Latrobe PA 15650 Editorial Policy The staff of The High Post is committed to serving the student body of Greater Latrobe Senior High School. The opinions articles contain the ideas and views of individuals, and do not represent the views of the staff, the advisors, or administration in its entirety. The High Post is a public forum for student expression; therefore, any student who wishes to create dialogue concerning an issue may do so by submitting articles or letters to the editors to C109. In order to uphold the integrity of the publication, The High Post reserves the right to edit the submissions for grammar, style, and available space. Submissions should not exceed 300 words.
Photo By Will Beddick
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Ryan Young
Assistant Editors In Chief Johna Roche & Jace O’Barto Online Editors Cennedi Fry & Anthony Boldurian Print Editors Sydney Quinn & Sydney Sapir Section Editors William Beddick, News Abby Shaffer, In-Depth Jack Marcinko, Sports Madison Cherrington, Features Anna Bisi, Photography Managing Anne Dalton Business Sara Majorsky Public Relations Taylor Harden
News
Photo By Sydney Laidacker
Sydney Laidacker, Staff Writer At DuBois Area Middle School an 8th grader named Maddox Hyde was told he only has a few weeks to live and his wish is to receive Christmas Cards from all over the world. Maddox has a very rare cancer called neuroblastoma, it is located in small glands located near the top of the kidney. This summer he regained his ability to walk and talk again. He had survived cancer two times already, but unfortunately it came back for a third round. Doctors said that this time around it was untreatable and Maddox would only have a few weeks to live. Ever since then Maddox has been receiving cards from all over the place! Including some of the classes in the elementary schools. Specifically at Baggaley Elementary School, Mrs. Shines’s and Mrs. Roesch’s 6th grade class made cards for Maddox Hyde. The teachers shared his background with the students and the students went straight to work. The students sent their wishes and prayers towards Maddox. In the Senior High School, students part of the Chic Fil A Leadership Academy felt a calling to make an “impact through action” in their school and their community. The Drive group decided to take this sending of christmas cards and get as many as possible by the end of the week. Sofia Herr, pictured in front of the “Make a Christmas Card” booth in the commons area, and many others in the Drive group took time out of their Lunch and Learn to help bring Maddox’s dream to a reality. Now if you would like to send a card and spread some Christmas cheer, you can send it to: Maddox Hyde, 333 Ohio St. Reynoldsville, PA 15851.
Do, Drive, and Deliver
Sofia Serge, Staff Writer This holiday season the Chick-FilA leaders are having what they call Do Good December. Do Good December is when all of the leaders split up into three groups. The three groups are Do, Drive, and Deliver, and they come up with an idea to help out their community that has to do with the group they’re in. They are left mostly to come up with all of the details for themselves, with very little instructions besides a due date. Then, the groups are left to figure out what they want to do on their own. Staff Members Radha Trevidi is a part of the Deliver Trent Holler, Tayler Weaver, group. “Our group is holding a toy drive McKenzie Bonar, Hailee Cherfor children staying overnight at Chilrington, Devon Jones, Trent Jones, dren’s Hospital in Pittsburgh. The group Sydney Ladacker, Devon Murphy, has put boxes around the school and are Logan Sessi-Clair, Sofia Serge, Alec giving free admission to basketball games Curran if the student brings toys,” said Trevidi. They came up with the idea to have a toy drive for Children’s Hospital, Trevidi FACULTY ADVISOR said, “We came up with the idea almost Renee Stallings directly. Our group really wanted to do ADMINISTRATION something for a hospital or a food drive. Mr. Mains After going through a few options we Mr. Krehlik decided we wanted to give something Mr. Ingel to kids and chose Children’s Hospital Printed by the Latrobe Bullietin because it was the closest one that would have anyone staying overnight.” Now obviously, you have to work to be a Chick Fil A leader, you have to be
chosen. But, before even worrying about being chosen you have to know you want to be a Chick Fil A leader. “I wanted to be a Chick Fil A leader so I could do more for my community.” Trevidi stated. “There is only so many projects you can do yourself, so when you have teachers and resources as well as students who share the same drive as you, there is nothing you can’t do. I wanted to improve my leadership skills, and there are no better teachers than your own peers.” Another Deliver group memeber, William Beddick, helped in the creation of the toy drive. “Personally, I didn’t want to see a child without a smile on their face or something to play with on Christmas morning, so this is very important to me.” At first, Beddick did not know if he wanted to be a Chick Fil A leader, but when the deadline for applications was counting down, he had a revelation. “I thought about my great-grandmother down in Uniontown and what she would want me to do to help in my community, because she had done so much in her life for others,” said Beddick. As the day for giving back to others comes sooner and sooner, members of the Chick Fil A staff want you to get out into the community and make an “impact through action”.
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CODING THE CMU VALUES Sofia Serge, Staff Writer Coding is a trending career choice. Mrs. Lint’s Introduction to Computer Programming CMU CS1 Academy Python class is learning how to be on the edge of this trend. The computer science curriculum includes Mrs. Lint’s Introduction to Programming class, which is a CMU developed course in Python. CMU stands for Carnegie Mellon University, and Python is a type of coding that they “teach” per say. “CMU has produced a computer science academy, so it’s curriculum being built by CMU to be able to incorporate a four year computer science program in a high school environment,” Mrs. Lint said. This has not been around for too long, as they just started it last year in spring with a pilot. Greater Latrobe was apart of one of 14 schools that were invited to be a part of the first pilot, so it’s only been around for about a year. “I’ve been doing professional development with CMU for my computer science classes for about 11 years now, and they reached out to teachers in various high schools around the area to see if they would be interested in piloting this new course. That’s how I got associated with it,” Mrs. Lint stated. This course is called CMU CS1 Academthe which is being developed so that they can allow a four year program to high schools free of charge with four different levels of computer science classes.
“We’re helping them develop the very first course that we’re putting into this four year program,” Mrs. Lint said. This class can help create a future career pathway and not just as something to take for fun. It can obviously help you if you are interested in a coding-related career in the future, but “is can also help you with other things in the long run. “It’s very advantageous for problem solving skills. It’ll increase anybodies ability to think logically through coding, and this course itself is built around graphics so it’s very visually based and it’s very interesting to work through the exercises because it is visual,” Mrs. Lint said. A student does not need any prior knowledge to take this class, except to have passed Algebra 1. “They don’t need any prior knowledge of coding at all or computer science. All they have to do is have the interest to learn,” claimed Mrs. Lint. “You should take it. Everybody should take this class, because everybody is going to be dealing with computer science in coding at some level at some point in their life. It’s inevitable, advised Lint. If you are interested in coding, think you could be interested in coding, or even just need another class to take next year, the Introduction to Computer Programming CMU CS1 Academy Python class may be just the option for you.
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NOVEMBER BREAKFAST OF CHAMPIONS
Anne Dalton, Manager On November 15, 2018, faculty members nominated six students ranging from freshman to seniors at this month’s breakfast. November Breakfast of Champions (left to right): Matthew Sterrett by social studies teacher Todd Simpson, Aaliyah Boone by art teacher Lindsey Page, Blake Baughman by German teacher Oliver Kiefer, Anne Dalton by language arts teacher Renee Stallings, Carrie Lenz by social studies teacher Kara Leeper, and Sidnie Gmuer by physical education teacher Kenneth Khalouf.
HONORS SPREAD SPIRIT
Photo By Anna Bisi
Tayler Weaver, Staff Writer Each year Greater Latrobe Senior High School’s National Honor Society purchases, wraps, and delivers gifts to the elementary schools. The organization consists of 81 seniors and is overlooked by Mrs. Kuhn. These students were broken up into 10 groups and a leader was chosen for each group. Every group was assigned a child who attends one of the three elementary schools at Latrobe. The NHS members were given the gender, age, clothing size, as well as a few items they’d hope to receive coupled with the likes/ interests of the child. Students had free reign on how they wanted to approach shopping and what to buy. There were no restrictions, but gifts had to be wrapped and dropped off at Mrs. Kuhn’s office no later than December 10. This was a heartwarming and rewarding experience where Greater Latrobe High School students could help and bring joy to other children within the school district. Senior Maddie Gera says, “It’s a fun way to support families in the community and get into the Christmas spirit. Also to hopefully impact the children’s Christmas and give them a memorable holiday.”
Chamber choir carols through SHS hallways spreading the spirit on December 18, 2018 under the direction of Miss Surden.
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What do you like most about the new building?
New LES Timeline *July 2015 - Comprehensive Facility Assessment report of the original Latrobe Elementary School
Miss Palmer, Art Teacher
“The gallery like feel of my room is a welcome design allowing passers by can see the students creating their own masterpieces.”
*August 2015 - GLSD Board of School Directors makes commitment to construct new Latrobe Elementary School
Mrs. McNeil, 2nd Grade
*November 2015 - Land purchase of Old Athletic Field approved by GLSD School Board of Directors
“Our building has such a relaxing and inviting environment that I feel like I am teaching from home!”
*December 2015 - Authorization to proceed on a new building by GLSD School Board of Directors *January 2016 - Programming and schematic design completed
Dr. Teresa Vasinko, Learning Support
The new Latrobe Elementary School has a more modern design and open concept.
*October 2016 - GLSD held an Act 34 Hearing concerning the construction of a new Latrobe Elementary School
Mrs. Merlin, 6th Grade
“The new building creates a more conducive learning environment for all students. Natural light, wobble seats, flexible seating, adjustable thermostats, and state of the art technology all contribute to this.”
*November 2016 - School Authority authorized the first bond sales (borrowings) for the new Latrobe Elementary School *February 2017 - School Authority and Board of Education approve constructions bids at joint meetings for the new Latrobe Elementary School *March 2017 - Ground breaking for the new Latrobe Elementary School
Mrs. Holler, Principal
One big difference between the old LES and the new LES is that the new one doesn’t have it’s own auditorium. It has a “cafetorium”.
*April 2017 - School Authority authorized the second bond sales (borrowings) for the new Latrobe Elementary School *December 2017 - School Authority authorized the third bond sales (borrowings) for the new Latrobe Elementary School
This is the main hallway right in the front of the building. The high ceilings and number of windows make the space feel more open and inviting.
*February 2018 - Approval of the sale of the original Latrobe Elementary School to Robindale Energy *November 27, 2018 - Certificate of Occupancy issued for the new Latrobe Elementary School *December 4, 2018 - Classes began at new Latrobe Elementary School
“The small group learning areas in the halls allow students to get personalized learning. It also gives them an area to learn independent working skills.”
The updated library is loaded with electronics, books, individual and group learning areas, and flexible seating areas.
LES Grand Opening
-Jace O’Barto, Assistant Editor in Chief
“I like the flexible learning spaces. The students love the amenities including the gym and art room. The interactive boards are more adaptable for today’s learning style. The students excitement towards learning has enhanced. The on site playground has increased the time that students can be physically active. I truly love everything about this building.”
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Page 5 What’s your favorite memory from LES? Ainsley Novotny (Junior) “Being short enough to be in the front row of all my Christmas concerts.” Maura Casey (Senior) “When Tate McElhaney put a worm in Johna Roche’s hair.” Bethany Havrilla (Senior) “Helping in my little brother’s classroom.” Natalie Rodgers (Sophomore) “When Jameson Harvey hit her head on the light at sixth grade camp and broke it.”
It’s no secret that Greater Latrobe School District takes immense pride in it’s art. The new art room at LES is no exception. With several large tables and plenty of space to work, students now have the ability to unleash their creativity unlike ever before.
Kiley Myers (Senior) “When I spilled lotion from the teacher’s bathroom on my khaki pants and yelled “It’s not coming out!” to Addy Vavick.” Tucker Knupp (Sophomore) “Messing with Mrs. Merlin and stealing candy.”
These learning areas in the hallways allow students to learn independently, enhance their skills in certain areas, collaborate with other classes, or get help from other teachers. The vaulted ceilings allow for larger windows, which in part yield more natural light into the classroom. The overhead lights have several settings ranging from a daylight setting to a setting with very little light. These high tech Promethean boards are the best in the area. with 20 touch points, a camera, and no projector, teachers have an easier time displaying information and having the students interact with the board itself. It is like a giant iPad! These uniquely shaped desks easily fit together into groups to allow students to easily collaborate and work with one another.
Mrs. McNeil, a second grade teacher, prepares her new room. She stands in the locker area with cubbies above them. Each classroom has this foyer-like area with the lockers in the classroom.
Classroom Breakdown
Gracie Wetzel (Sophomore) “When Carleigh Johnson spilled syrup all over me in kindergarten. I also loved Dance Dance Revolution.” All teachers have been supplied with these microphones that amplify their voice so students the whole way in the back can hear them talking. Speaker installed in the ceiling of each classroom allow them to do this. Several windows in each room allow the natural sunlight to come in. Natural lighting has been proven to improve students’ cognitive performance.
These wobble stools allow students who have trouble concentrating, concentrate better because the seat
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Project-Based Learning Escaping to the 21st Century
Sofia Serge, Staff Writer 2 minutes left on the clock, you have all the clues but things aren’t adding up. Then, it hits you. You and the rest of your group search behind the dark curtain and have found the key! You have escaped the room. You may be shocked to learn that this escape room is actually taking place in our school, along with tons of other fun hands on learning activities. And these activities are being built by students. PBL stands for project-based learning, where students learn about a subject while solving an open-ended problem found in trigger material. This can be something like making an escape room, like the students of Academic English 2 are doing, or even something like shrinking potato chip bags in the microwave. Greater Latrobe decided to start PBL to give the students many opportunities. This includes giving the students independence, but also the comfort of help, suggestions, and feedback from other students. It also helps the students express themselves in a hands on way. The whole idea behind this is that students can choose their own questions and problems to solve. Of course, GLSH wanted to try this, and has decided to do some of these, including Mrs. Stalling’s English classes. Jack Marcinko, a student in the class shared all about how they were able to come up with and make an escape room for their PBL project. “To prep for that, we have one day a month, and with that day we can use it to plan out what we want to do with each puzzle. For example, we might come up with a theme for the puzzle.” To get some ideas for the escape room that the students are creating, the students went on a field trip to 60 Minute Missions, in downtown Greensburg, one of the most popular escape room businesses in the area. It features three different rooms, that are periodically changing, along with everything the students would need
information on for their escape room. “This trip gave us some insight on how to create puzzles, the recommended amount of puzzles in the time slot we have for the escape room, and a lot of that stuff.” Jack said. “With that trip we also figured out what all we needed props wise. They also told us that it doesn’t have to be super complex, which was nice to hear.” Creating a final project is not an easy process, with lots of things to include, consider, and make. So where are the students at now? “We’re working on getting clubs that max the theme and having a set goal.” Jack shared. The students were assigned the escape room at the beginning of the year, and are still working on it, and will be until the end of the year. “I think it’s a really interesting way of learning,” Jack ultimately said about how he feels about the whole experience. “Not only is it something that we all enjoy, we are all learning a lot from it.” When finished, students will be graded on their PBL project on a scale of 1-4 on the stated objectives. William Bender’s Project-Based Learning book states the evaluation procedure as the following, “Students scores may range from four to sixteen. Either the teacher or a group of students working collaboratively with the teacher awards points to the group of students for each of the objectives listed and then totals those points. Point totals of 15-16 equate to an A on the project. A total of 13-14 equals a B; 10-12 equates to a C, and less than 10 indicates a need to redo the project.” Overall, the whole idea and experience of PBL is going great for not only the authorities and teachers of Greater Latrobe, but also the students. “Like I said,” Jack ended by saying, “not only is it a really interesting way of learning, but it’s something that you don’t get to do in every class, and is something that this will probably be our only chance to do it, making the whole experience even more valuable.”
Students Ayla Sarson and Logan Olsen chose the country Nigeria for their poster board project this quarter in Spanish 3 by Mrs. Reisz to help educate some of the students, faculty, and community of Latrobe a little bit more. Logan Olsen beads a bracelet with a younger boy in the CSC. Nigeria is well known for their love of beading and beautiful jewelry.
News Describe your PBL project and what you learned from it: The escape room was a lot of fun. We got locked in a room and had an hour to escape it. I learned new ideas and puzzle ideas for our escape room.Teamwork is super important when working with escape rooms. ~Cole Cerny We went to an escape room and got to learn how to make a functioning room with tips and tricks from the owner. Overall, our class learned how to set ours up and make it challenging but not impossible. ~Dallin White The escape room was really interesting. I enjoyed learning how the puzzles can be and how to escape from the room. ~Jessica Bald We went to 60 Minute Missions to get ideas for our own escape room. I learned that you have to listen to your teammates and to have a couple people try to solve a puzzle because they could have a better way or solving it or a person could have messed up. ~Caynin Mulroy We went to an escape room. The objective is that you are locked in a room and you have to find clues and work your way out. I learned that a lot goes into them. For example, a lot of thought went into the theme and storyline and how long it should take to solve each clue. ~Alex Walker Working through the process of creating an escape was a brand new PBL for me last year. It taught me how to think in a more critical way and work my way through problems and puzzles in a logical and efficient way. ~Kayla Fretz
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High Tech High A New Kind of Learning Embraces A New Genration William Beddick, News Editor At Greater Latrobe Senior High School, a new way of educating, commonly known as PBL, has begun in many classes. The biggest push for PBL has been through the field trip to High Tech High School in San Diego, California. High Tech High was founded in 2000, averaging one hundred to one hundred-fifty students per grade level. It is the premiere school for the project based learning concept. The classes students can take at the school are very unique, because they combine courses like English and history into one. The singular project that the students create is the one takeaway from the co-curricular courses as a whole. To get into the school and participate in the PBL, elders put the name into the system and HTH picks those residing in San Diego County like a lottery. If your name is picked then you are able to join the student body. As the students got a small chance to get accepted into this specialized school, the teachers only have a yearly contract that can be renewed by the administration for the upcoming year or they can be let go. In contrast to the pressure of yearly contracts, the environment of the school is left relaxed and open for students and teachers alike. Six representatives of GLSHS (Ms. Reibel, Mrs. Faust, Mrs. Mack, Mrs. Reisz, Mr. Brandt, and Mr. Mains) observed and experienced this unique culture. “For the past two years, our administration has been talking about it and we have trained our seventh to twelfth grade staff in PBL during in service days here at the building,” Mr. Mains said. “Some small groups were sent by ASSET training to other areas, but most were trained at the school.” One teacher in particular, Senora Reisz, has taken the opportunity of project-based learning and has been doing it in her Spanish III class this quarter. Students identified a problem in our society that they intend to change. For example, one class made culture boxes where they investigated different cultures like Hispanic, Indian, Chinese, and many others to identify the problem of our uneducated community. High Tech High takes this project based learning like Senora Reisz has used in her class, but the unique charter school in California uses it for their overall curriculum. “All that High Tech
High students do is one main project that they work on where they combine with other classes,” Reisz said. The students can work on their projects in no designed classroom, but in different areas around the school with whiteboards to help brainstorm their projects. “At High Tech High, they called them Makerspaces,” Mr. Mains said. They have equipment like power drills, saws, and glue guns to help transform the students projects from dreams to realities. “It is a very non-traditional way of learning,” Mr. Mains stated. The main focus for the projects are to initiate basic soft skills into the students’ minds and the process of the entire single project on its own. These projects also allow opportunities for students to pick personal job shadows or internships for one month. “Teachers will visit the students multiple times. The biggest takeaway is for the student to gain more experience,” Mains said. Inside one of the Makerspaces in the school that students At the school, GLSHS representatives had the can take advantage of and use materials for their projects. opportunity to talk to some students at the school about their opinions. Reisz said, “The students were very friendly and open. They looked to be very used to guests at their school and were very helpful to talk to.” In particular, Mains got to look into a ninth grade physics class where the students really showed their love for learning. “They were excited to tell me what they were learning and the passion really showed,” Mains said. In the future, the GLSHS community looks forward to some co-curricular PBL classes next year, but in the meantime we won’t see any permanent recreation of HTH. The biggest obstacle is in Advanced Placement courses. “They have to cover so much that they have little time for the deeper dives of learning,” Mains said. Personally, Reisz said, “Overall it was a good experience and few students were seeing what others were doing and that is something that we can apply here.” As a school, Mains gave off two goals that we can take from this trip and try to accomplish in the near future. “We must try to solve community problems and develop skills with our students Inside Hight Tech High, you can see many workspaces that relate to real life,” Mains said. with big mats around the school to work on projects. Even though a direct jump to a new education system takes time, you will definitely see little, baby steps to a different kind of learning in the future at Greater Latrobe Senior High School. Mr. Brandt, Mr. Mains, Mrs. Mack, Mrs. Reisz, Mrs. Faust, and Ms. Reibel take a sefie at High Tech High School. outside of San Diego, CA
Students at Hight Tech High focusing on their projects during class time. Photos By Mr, Brandt
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Sports
PLAYER PROFILE: REED FENTON SENIOR SEASON
Why do you love the game? I’ve been playing it since I was little and I just started to love the game as I got older. Who is your role model? My dad and brother. What makes you work so hard? I don’t like to lose and I know I could always get better. What are somethings you want to work in your game? I’d like to improve on my ball handling. Where do you see yourself in five years? Hopefully starting my first year of dental school. BY DEVON JONES, STAFF WRITER
Girls Basketball Is “All In” For Another Great Season
By Trent Jones, Staff Writer
The beat drops. The huddle forms. The season begins. The GLHS Girls Basketball team enter the court and seniors Beth Havrilla, Carly Augustine, and Kayla White are ready for their final season of Wildcat Basketball. After tying for the best record in the WPIAL section, the girls face an even harder challenge. Even after losing multiple star players, they are eager to maintain their previous success, but they acknowledge that teamwork is needed in order to succeed. “In order to be successful, we need to play together and for each other. Everyone has their own strengths and when we bring those together we play our best,” said point guard Havrilla. The girls basketball team is filled with talent in all areas. From defense to offense, these girls can pack a punch. “There is a lot of talent on the team and the program has a lot to look forward to in the years to come. The younger players are eager to take advantage of the opportunities given to them and I believe they will be successful,” said Havrilla. Before a game the girls are prepped with scouting reports, words of wisdom from head coach Burkhart, and cheers from the packed Wildcat Den, but what all is taking place inside the heads of our star seniors?
“I don’t think too much about it, it makes me nervous when I think too much so I just listen to what my coach has scouted and go off the team by that,” said senior forward Kayla White. Havrilla adds, “Personally to prepare myself, I try to remind myself to have confidence in my own abilities and my teammates, to have fun while I am playing, and to not let any nerves get to me.” The most important aspect of the team is family, they spend time in class, at practice, and outside of school. Everyone has each others backs and enjoys their time together off the court. “Our team is definitely more of a family. I think that is one of the elements that contributes to our success. We all communicate with each other outside of just practices and games and genuinely enjoy being together. I have been playing basketball for 11 years. I have been playing with the other seniors since 4th grade and I’m very lucky to still call them teammates and friends,” said Havrilla. Point Guard, Beth Havrilla, dribbles the ball down the court, looking for an open teammate. She has multiple people to pass the rock to, but she sees forward Kayla White break free from the defender. Three seconds left. The crowd is on its feet. The ball is in the air. Are you going to be in the stands?
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JOLLY OLD SAINT NICK RAUSE
Greater Latrobe Graduate Nick Rause is Making a Great Impact on his Community during this Holiday Season By Hailee Cherrington, Staff Writer
During the holidays, you want to be snuggled up on the couch, drinking hot chocolate, and binge watching your favorite netflix shows. However, for some people this isn’t possible. Some people are on the streets trying to stay warm with a thin blanket, watching as people walk by in their puffy winter jackets. Nick Rause is one of the people in the world that try to make the holidays better for the less fortunate. Nick Rause, a 2018 graduate of Greater Latrobe, currently goes to school at Seton Hill to pursue his career as a Physician’s Assistant. Before he begins his career of helping people, he’s getting a jump start by volunteering at places such as Feeding the Spirit, which is a non-profit organization in Greensburg that serves dinner to those in need. “It’s really eye-opening to see the people that come in to eat dinner,” said Nick. “They’re all so kind, and it’s sad to think that they wouldn’t be having a meal if we weren’t here to help.” When he goes to volunteer, Nick doesn’t just serve the food, he becomes friends with the people who come in and brightens their day, while they brighten his. “I love talking with the people who come in for dinner and hear their stories,” said Nick happily. “It’s a lot of fun to spend time with them, and I hope I make their day because they definitely make mine.” Nick volunteers at Feeding the Spirit almost every Thursday, and it is his favorite part of the week. He doesn’t just do this for volunteer hours, like most people, instead it is out of the kindness of his heart. He said, “I love volunteering because these people deserve it, and it warms my heart to see the smiles on their faces when they leave after a good meal.” Nick’s help, along with others, is extremely important to people in need, and it’s even more important during the holiday season. He’s able to provide holiday meals to those who wouldn’t have one otherwise, and that truly makes a difference in the lives of the people in our community. Nick occasionally takes a trip to Pittsburgh to lend a helping hand. He recently attended an event at Allegheny Center Alliance Church to hand out blessing bags that contain basic toiletries and snacks to those in need. He was thrilled to help out. “It was freezing cold but my heart was warm knowing I was able to help the great people who showed up,” Nick said. “I didn’t even want to leave I was having such a good time with everyone.”
He saw a woman who looked cold and didn’t have a hat, so he took the one off of his head and gifted it to her. Her face lit up like a Christmas tree. “When I gave her my hat, it seemed like she opened a gift on Christmas that she’s been asking for, and that’s why I do it.” For Nick, seeing the smiles on their faces is equally as rewarding to him as his help is to them. The dedication that Nick has to helping people in our community and beyond is truly a Christmas miracle. With his endless kindness, he’s able to brighten the lives of others while they brighten his. Today, you don’t see genuine care for others like this very often. Nick Rause is truly the real St. Nick.
By Sydney Brewbaker
CLASS RANK CONVERSATIONS
Questions are trending about class rank, valedictorian, and grades. By McKenzie Bonar, Staff Writer
To many, class rank is just a number. Overlooked and largely ignored, class rank has little effect on the lives of the majority of the student body; however, this is not the case for everyone. To a few highly ambitious students, class rank is a goal, something that can be focused on and used as motivation to work harder, better. To be in the top twenty is highly impressive, but the ultimate prize is valedictorian. This honor sets the best apart from the rest and impacts the future of the esteemed student that earns the title “Valedictorian”. But the glaring question that everybody is asking now is, what happens to those who aren’t valedictorian? Students who worked extremely hard, but are only top twenty or thirty? Is it fair to have this rigid line between all of these hard working students? The controversy has buzzed around the school as talk of cutting class rank begins to appear. Senior Joyce Yin is in the running for the class of 2018’s Valedictorian “Not only Valedictorian, but class rank as well are a status and reward,” Yin says. “It shows how you compare to other people. Which is a good thing, because you get compared
to other people after high school too; it’s inevitable.” She shares how class rank and Valedictorian are the same as any other school reward. “At the end of the day, there are so many awards in high school
“It’s more of the things that one does to become valedictorian, rather than the label itself that affect your future” for sports, music, and more. It seems as though we often forget about academics, and valedictorian status and class rank are a good system to validate people’s academic achievements,” says Yin. Many believe class rank causes unnecessary stress and competition to students, and therefore should be taken out of schools. “To put it simply, I think it’s a really bad idea to take class rank away,” Yin says. “Stress and competition aren’t bad things.
We will be experiencing it in one way or another, might as well experience it early.” To possible Valedictorian, removing class rank is throwing away a system that motivates students academically. Mrs. Kubus was valedictorian of her graduating class. “I was personally very proud of my accomplishment as valedictorian, as anyone should be,” Kubus says. Many often wonder if having such a title in highschool affects the individual’s future. “It’s more of the things that one does to become valedictorian, rather than the label itself that affect your future,” Kubus states. Kubus as past valedictorian has mixed feelings about the title. “I don’t think there is much difference at all between the person who graduates number one and the person who graduates number ten or fifteen, so what’s the point in that regard? ” she says, “But on the other hand, I think school is about education, and why shouldn’t we honor the person who does the best.” Nonetheless, class rank should not be the main focus to a high school student. Don’t stress if you’re not in the top 10 percentile. Focus on getting an education and learning for your future.
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Who Would Be Under Your Mistletoe? “Gianna Ferry”- Bryce Butler, Senior “Bryce Butler”- Gianna Ferry, Senior “Moana”- Connor Mondock, Senior “Jennifer Lawrence”- Devin Watson, Senior “Daphne Blake from Scooby Doo”- Preston Yingling, Junior “Myself ”- Andrew Bryant, Junior “AJ Rock”- Xavier Rolin, Junior “Trevor Hughes”- Bo Ruffner, Senior “Myself ”- Corbin Makar, Junior
Rockin’ Around The Christmas
My favorite Christmas cookie is pretty amazing since it’s my mom's homemade chocolate chip cookies. Katelyn Henry, Freshman My favorite cookie is a butterscotch cookie a butterscotch cookie, the texture is really soft and the chocolate is creamy. Kelsey Keough, Freshman Sugar cookies that are super sugary, sweet, soft, and yummy. Hannah Gentilo, Freshman
The fluffy sugar cookies with icing on top or kiss cookies. -Selena Shull, Sophomore The peanut butter cookies because they taste amazing!- Marianna Mileca, freshman My favorite christmas cookie is the one that looks the best! -Emma Santora, freshman I like the peanut butter cookies with the hershey kisses on top! -Alex Lukon, freshman I pretty much like anything with chocolate. Chocolate is always one of my favorites. -Radha Trivedi, freshman
Naughty or Nice?
What I want for Christmas this year is the “To All The Boys I’ve Loved Before” book series. I really love reading and this will keep me busy during the holiday season.
Alexandra Lukon Freshman
“Nice” Brenna Barnhart, Senior “Nice” Ainsley Novotny, Junior “Nice” Bailey Siko, Senior “Nice” Amelia Enfinger, Senior “Nice” Joey Costello, Senior “Nice” Lindsey Crawford, Senior
I want eggnog, makeup, and clothes this year. I also want a kiss under the mistletoe.
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Tell Of a Christmas Past: “When I was 8 years old, I was opening gifts and heard bells ring upstairs. I ran upstairs (thinking I saw Santa’s boot) and found a box. I then opening it and I got the dog I always wanted.” ~Faith Mucci, Junior
Kiss cookies! The peanut butter cookie with a kiss. -Hannah Thomas, Sophomore
Wafer cookies because they are delicious! - Adison Lemmon, freshman
“I’m a naughty boy” Cole Fiore, Senior “Oh I’m always naughty” Levi Myers, Senior “Knotty since day one” Matt Klasnic, Senior “I’ve been too naughty this year” David An, Sophomore “Naughty” Alex Walker, Sophomore “Little bit of both” Hunter Bodnar, Senior “Whatever you want me to be” Jake Krinock, Senior
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Selena Skull Sophmore
“Staying up all night on Christmas Eve with my little cousins and family playing games like the present exchanges.” ~Abby Rullo, Junior
The hockey boys, Cole Novak, Cole Ferri, Darick Hrtyanski and Alex Walker get into the Christmas spirit with their festive suits.
“A few years ago my younger sister and I were opening gifts and I accidentally opened one of her main gifts and she cried and didn’t talk to me.” ~Malaya Mekkaoui
“For as long as I can remember, every year around Christmas time, my grandparents put up their leg lamp and red Ryder BB gun in their front window, and “A Christmas Story” playing on a loop on the TV in the living room.” ~Nina Modecki, Junior
Members of the lacrosse team go to Twin Lakes Rehab & Healthcare Center to spread Christmas cheer and tighten their team bond.
This year for Christmas I want a husky because they are very motivated outside in the snow. I also really want one because I have never owned a dog.
Kelsey Keough Freshman
I want water speakers to connect to my phone. I think them seem really cool.
Hannah Thomas Sophmore
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“I only got 6 hours of sleep in two days.” This is the average day of Junior, A.J. Rock. While excelling on the football field for the Wildcats, Rock is also in 10 school-related clubs. Key Club, Interact, SADD, German, Aevidium, Lettermen’s, Ushers, Future Business Leaders of America, Fellowship of Christian Athletes, and Green Team. Somehow, he balances out all of his activities, while dedicating time to sports, “I practice hard after school, eat dinner, straight to homework… “I have a set schedule after school.” He believes his set schedule and time management skills contribute to his success on and off of the football field. Rock had this to say on his favorite moments of the season, “Finding out making playoffs was a huge morale booster for the team, also spending time with the boys was a blast, we are practically family.” A.J.carried the “Rock” 135 times for 677 yards and three touchdowns. He also was crucial in the receiving game with four receptions for 54 yards. Never washing your favorite team’s jersey is a superstition for good luck. Rock also has his own that he believes contributes to his success over the season. “ I can only wear white cleats for the season, I eat the same exact thing for lunch every gameday, and I have to prepare my equipment in the same order prior to each game, it goes pads, jersey, pants, thigh pads, and cleats.”
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All of his accomplishments come back to his prime motivation in life, Rock had this to comment on his certain ones. “ My aspirations for my future have a large role in my motivational tactics… I would love to play football at either West Point or Navy.” said Rock. Although being an honor roll student and an excellent athlete, like everyone, Rock faces adversities. “Self-doubts were my major problem, I have learned to try my best and strive for greatness.” With the tough first round exit to Penn Hills, the same team that went on to win the 5A WPIAL championship. Rock is more than ready to get back into the swing of things and focus on his last season of Friday Night Lights. He has a few goals for himself and the team. “We need to have everyone on board. Offseason prep is a major key to getting better… We have to play our hearts out and put 110% so we can make it back to the playoffs,” said Rock. A.J. always puts academics in front of his athletics, so he has set goals for himself in school as well. “Bringing up my cumulative GPA and SAT scores would help me achieve my goal of making it to either West Point or the Naval Academy”, he said. Safe to say Rock is the definition of the hardworking student-athlete, who puts school work first before anything, even sleep. ~Mikey Sullenburger, Free Lance Writer
Trevor Hughes
The Heart of the Wrestling Team
On Wednesday, A wrestling match at Greater Latrobe against Woodland Hills but not just any wrestling match. Senior, Trevor Hughes made his fame around 7:30 p.m. by having and winning his first wrestling match ever! Trevor’s weight class is 220 and he pinned his kid shortly after time started in the first quarter. Trevor said at the end of the match that he was very happy and happy everyone cheered for him. Trevor also works at every practice by running, doing push-ups and drilling with the guys. You can all go see trevor’s senior wrestling picture in the main gym! Good start to the season Trev! And good luck boys. ~Taylor Harden, Public Relations
Trent Holler signs his Letter of Intent on Wednesday, December 19, 2018 as he commits to being an East Carolina University Pirate in 2019.
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“Because I’m flashing.” -Bryce Henry
Humans Of Greater Latrobe
“It’s ugly and I like it. I like myself some ugly sweaters.” Drew Kaczmarkiewicz
“I got this sweater a few years ago and my grandma sent me these socks (which I love of course) this year,while Halloween is my favorite holiday, Christmas is definitely a close second.” -Lilyan Slagle
~Cennedi Fry, Online Editor
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Brady Pevarnik
Building his Own Legacy
“I am my own person. I am Brady Pevarnik. I’m not Arnold Palmer or Jack Nicklaus. I am just trying to be me and not anyone else,” said Brady Pevarnik, C 19 and Pennsylvania State University D1 commit. “I am Brady Pevarnik.” By Talia Mongelluzzo Brady Pevarnik is graduating from the same high school as Arnold Palmer, C’47. Although they have the same humble beginnings, Pevarnik worked hard to find his own style and his own journey. Because of their common roots, Brady would often be compared to Arnold Palmer. “‘You’re going to be the next Arnold Palmer,’ but no I want to be the next me,” he said. “Arnold Palmer was my biggest golf inspiration growing up.” Palmer was often on Latrobe Country Club’s course where the GLHS team plays. He would often stop to see Brady hit a shot, offer advice and mentor the young player. “My other biggest motivator is my father. He is more than just my dad.” Jim Pevarnik is Brady’s coach, biggest fan, and most importantly, his father. “My dad always wants the best for me. He’ll always push me to do my best.” Brady’s father is a golfer like his son. He golfed four years at Greensburg Central Catholic High School before moving onto the University of Georgia for two years. He found his own personal style after two years of college, and transferred to Augusta University. Years later on a vacation with his own family, Brady’s father got together with an old friend to play a round of golf. “My dad asked me to go along. We had a really fun time playing around. When we got home, I immediately asked my dad to take me golfing again. I got really competitive with it.” Since Brady’s father was a golfer himself, he helped teach Brady everything he knew. “I’m really thankful for my dad. He’s always been there for me, teaching me and helping me. He’s a great influence and role model to have.” Alongside his father, Brady’s other role model is his mother. “My mom is just my mom. She’s a loving, caring person who I know I can go to with anything. I have a great balance in my parents.” Brady has been surrounded by great influences like Arnold Palmer, his father and his mother. He has learned many life lessons from all of them. Palmer Jackson, a Franklin Regional golfer, is another great influence Brady is thankful for. “We met at Hannastown Golf Course when we were nine. We instantly became best friends, golfing and learning together,” said Pevarnik. They compete almost every day of the golfing season. “Palmer is a very hardworking, talented kid. He’s a great competitor.” Jackson signed with Notre Dame on November 15 to play golf. “I know Palmer and I will stay friends and continue playing together when we’re both home.” Afterall, Phil Mickelson has his Tiger Woods and Brady Pevarnik has his Palmer Jackson. Photo Submitted By Brady Pevarnik
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BRADY PEVARNICK CONTINUED
Brady Pevarnik travels as much as any high school athlete. During the winter months in Pennsylvania, he travels often. “During the winter I go down to Port Saint Lucie in Florida with my dad. It helps to practice in the off season as any other athlete would understand.” When in Florida, Pevarnik meets with his other coaches to improve his playing. “Port Saint Lucie has a PGA Learning Center which is a huge golf facility. Within the facility there are three courses: The Ryder, The Fazio and The Wanamaker. All of these courses have helped me to improve my skills,” said Brady. However, his home course, Hannastown, has also helped to shape the young player. “I’m always working on improving when I can at this course. It’s also where I met Palmer and where we compete and help each other.” Besides traveling and working at home, Brady’s favorite courses in Pennsylvania include Sunnehanna Country Club and Fox Chapel Golf Club. Playing golf can be very expensive with all of the travel, equipment, and greens fees. Luckily, Pevarnik was offered a sponsorship when he was 14 years old from Titleist and FootJoy. They both provide him with clubs, gloves, shoes, hats, balls and more. “Titleist and FootJoy have helped me out so much over the last few years and have treated me better than I could have imagined. Without them, I don’t know if all of this could have been possible.” When Brady wasn’t traveling to work on improving his golf game, he was traveling and talking to universities that took interest in him He visited up to 15 schools before finding what he will soon call home. “I visited all of the schools, but I just didn’t feel complete. I went to Penn State and felt at home. I felt super comfortable and those aspects are very big to anyone going to college. I wanted to be where I was comfortable and could play golf right away.” Pevarnik even looked at the University of Georgia and Wake Forest University, but he didn’t feel they were home to him like they were home to his father and Arnold Palmer. “I know it’s the place for me, and I can’t wait to see what my future holds
as a Nittany Lion.” With a new school comes new teammates and coaches. Jimmy Myers, a senior at Pittsburgh Central Catholic High School, signed with Penn State University on November 14. “Jimmy got really good at the game a few years ago. He’s a really great kid and I can’t wait to be his teammate. I feel we can accomplish a lot together at Penn State.” Brady also shows excitement towards his new coaches. “Coach Nye has been the head golf coach at PSU for 40 years. He has seen a lot of great players and knows how to teach them. Coach Howe, the assistant coach, brings an element that many coaches do not. He played at a very high level being in PGA Tour events and the US Open. I’m really looking forward to spending the next four years with guys I enjoy being around and can really learn from.” Taking a step back to look at the past, Brady shows appreciation towards Coach Reaugh. “Coach Reaugh taught me how to be a leader. He’s been my coach for five years in total, one in basketball and four in golf. He’s been a really great mentor for me,” said Brady. After achieving his recent goals, Pevarnik has decided to set new ones. These include winning an NCAA Championship, winning a Big 10 Championship, getting a degree in business from Penn State University and playing on the PGA Tour. “I’m excited to see what’s coming next, but I’ll never forget the roots I have to this town and the many people who have impacted my life. I love the town of Latrobe, and everyone who makes it what it is. I want to go along and make my own legacy. This is me, Brady Pevarnik.”
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with hometown Roots Lee Caruso: Rockstar to school halfway through the day. And after the end of Logan Sessi- Clair, Staff Writer Most people don’t know what they’ll be when they get older. Some people say they want to be a police officer or astronaut, but very few people are certain what they want to be and stick to it. An exception to the rule, was Lee Caruso Jr., who went from being a journalist, to a singer, and a guitar player for a well-known band, Big Atlantic. At the age of ten, Lee was playing guitar in his father’s band for fun after severely hurting his leg in a dirt bike accident. He learned how to play to pass the time and eventually knew what he wanted to do for the rest of his life. He often stayed up late practicing guitar, and improving his skills, trying to be as good as his father. “I smashed my leg in 52 places on a dirt bike when I was really young. I almost lost my leg and I was laid up in a bed for almost a year. I got tired of beating video games so I started playing guitar. My dad played and he showed me a couple things and I just played it 18 hours a day. Everything happens for a reason I mean all the bad stuff it happens. I was kinda depressed. I didn’t know what depression was, but I found happiness and good things come out of bad things more often than they don’t said Caruso. Lee enjoyed playing with his father Lee Sr thinking it was the coolest thing. “Everybody is natural at something and when I started performing with him I was real nervous, before I started performing with him I never even knew what good was on a guitar, but looking back on it it came really natural to me to be in front of people and perform in front of people. I really loved it and getting the notoriety as a kid felt really good. I loved that feeling and that’s initially what sparked me wanting to do it all the time,” said Caruso. He said it was good to be trained with his dad and play on his own. “I would stay up until 4:00 in the morning with my band, and sleep until noon then I would wake up and rush
“High Hopes”
Ryan Young, Editor-In-Chief The AUX cord buzzes. The leather snaps. The fifth fret vibrates as the first momentous note hums through the speaker. It’s another day for senior Alexander Petrie and his cherished guitar. Petrie comes from a very creative family of artists, designers and bakers--but not guitar players. “As far as I know, I’m the only musician in the family. Now everyone else in my family does other forms of art like drawing or decorating cakes and desserts, but everything that I do is without guidance because no one knows what to do in music,” said Petrie. The lack of family musicians did not stop Petrie from exploring a calling he felt at an early age. “I started playing guitar in 10th grade. I always wanted to play since I was little, but I never had anyone to properly teach me,” said Petrie. After experimenting on his own, Petrie began to develop into a skilled guitarist. He now enjoys writing his own music and one day hopes to pursue a career in music production and possible have his own band. “I want to go to college and learn how to produce music. Then I could make music
the day I would go with the band and just keep repeating the cycle” said Caruso Lee was full of stories ranging from messing around with his friends, to having fun with teachers. He also said that being in the High Post allowed him to learn a bit more about music which only increased his passion about music and also increased his love to write songs. “Songwriting is a good way to express yourself, and show the world your feelings, and who you are as a person” said Caruso. After graduating from high school, Lee built his own music studio where he was able to write and record his music for his band that he and his friends created. He named the band Big Atlantic after his mother told him she experienced it in a dream. “ I love the lifestyle, I was attracted to it, the traveling and the adventure it presented” said Caruso. His band started with a company called Rock Down in New York. “The music world it’s very different and you have to learn how to fly straight and not get involved in all the negatives” said Caruso Lee said when you first start out there is scarcely any happiness as you’re doing it constantly, but over time as you make more money and people begin to know who you are it becomes more enjoyable. “Your band members feel like family, even if they’re part of a different band and where they go, you go. You also learn to have fun and be very determined. You have to remember that deep down, everybody is the same no matter what they say about your music or what you say about their music.” Big Atlantic will play at Club Cafe on Sunday, December 30 and Four seasons Saturday, January 26.
for rising musician at consist of lengthy complex songs with
of my own and perform in bands. I would love to own a band or at least be in one. I always had the idea and I even tried to come up with band names which is harder than it looks. I think it would be fun to be apart of a band and hang out with one another like brothers. That’ll be so cool,” said Petrie. Petrie’s original songs focus on the idea of outer space and both the freedom and seclusion of isolation. “Most of my songs are about space. I really enjoy the idea of an endless void and when you have something that’s endless you can have many ideas. One song is about a guy just looking at the stars and the stars are mocking him in return. Another song is about being in the ends of space and just being trapped and isolated,” said Petrie. For Petrie the guitar is a method of escaping into a world filled with self reflection, peace, and enjoyment. When he isn’t busy experiencing and mixing different notes to create his own unique combinations, Petrie can be seen with headphones on and the smooth melody of Pink Floyd playing. “I love Pink Floyd and Rush. I love their instrumentation and lyrics. They
an experimental twist. The word choice can be really strange and weird. It breaks away from typical rhymes and goes more towards internal rhymes and slant rhymes. I feel excited, sometimes my walking keeps with the tempo and it feels super cool; it makes me wanna just rock out,” said Petrie. Although Petrie loves Pink Floyd he tries to stray away from looking up to one musician for fear that it will take away from the originality of his own music, but that doesn’t mean he won’t play the songs that really speak to him. “One of my favorite songs to play is Shine on You Crazy Diamond by Pink Floyd because the solo in the beginning is so smooth and awesome to play. The song is 13 minutes long so that’s a challenge within itself. It’s just such an iconic song. The guitar is just so fun to play and when I hear people from other bands play these hard songs It makes me wanna get better so I can play just as good,” said Petrie. After taking three years of Guitar and one year of Jazz at GLHS, Petrie has evolved into a better guitarist and creative producer. Only time will tell if Petrie will pursue that, “Great Gig In The Sky.”
GLSD
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See It to Believe It
By Anne Dalton, Manager When it comes to holiday decorations, the Hill family takes it to the next level. You may have passed the grand display of Christmas lights covering their house coordinating with carols while driving the backroads near Whitney. The Hills started the idea of a light show at their home back in 2012. It originally started with approximately 10,000 lights. Since, they have added thousands more and each year have added something new to the display to make it different from the year before. A variety of christmas decorations include five shooting stars ranging from three to six feet tall attached to the chimney, three singing C9 light bulbs, one singing snowman, ninety snowfall lights, an oversized Merry Christmas sign, a thirty-foot tall mega tree, ten mini trees around the driveway, four leaping arches, and sixty-four strips of pixels that cover the house. This year’s display newly features the addition of pixels to their fence, four large Christmas packages as well as a Merry Christmas sign to the pool deck. The display is composed of approximately 75,000 lights and about a mile worth of extension cords. All of the added decorations get people excited and ready for the season of giving. The family starts planning their “Hill Extreme Christmas” display in July, begins decorating in October, and switches on the lights on Thanksgiving Day. The Hill’s start laying out everything and the music to go along with it. Songs such as
“Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree” and music from The Nutcracker were played this year. The summer is when all of the planning of the cabling is completed. This time also includes figuring out where each light is strung and how it will connect to the house and plug to each controller. Once the wiring is all figured out, each song is programmed to the beat of the music so that it coordinates with the flashing of the lights. Each year, the annual light up night for the house is on Thanksgiving give or take a few days to fix any minor bugs. They welcome visitors from the end of November through the end of the year between 5:30-10:30 pm. “I enjoy just seeing how many people stop by and tell us how much they appreciate and enjoy it,” said junior Ella Hill. The show, which is made up of nine favorite holiday songs totaling around almost thirty minutes of music, can be tuned in to on the local radio station 88.1FM. Many locals look forward to seeing the show each year during the Christmas season. Hundreds of people stop by and appreciate the brightness of the lights before their eyes. “I love seeing so many people’s post of our house to social media platforms and always receiving positive feedback,” said Hill. Be sure to stop by 111 Honor Roll Drive in Latrobe, Pennsylvania and tune in to the radio to get into the holiday spirit.
Julia Huczko shines with talent
2019 Cabaret
On December 15, drama club held the annual Cabaret in hopes of raising money for the musical. The Cabaret is a showcase of student talent, focused mainly around performing arts. It’s a great opportunity for students to show their talents, from singing to dancing to playing an instrument. This year’s Cabaret was very successful in not only fundraising, but the talent itself. Kayla Holsopple was the host for this year’s cabaret. Gabby Takitch and Annie Duda showcased their vocal talent. Duda sang an original piece accompanied by her guitar solo. By McKenzie Bonar, Staff Writer
By McKenzie Bonar, Staff Writer As students in high school, it’s often found stressful or overwhelming to balance extra-curriculars with school work. For some of us, one after school activity isn’t enough. Julia Huczko is a busy junior at Greater Latrobe. On top of her impressive grades, Huczko is very involved musically in the school. “I’ve been singing ever since I can remember,” Huczko says. She is a part of Chamber Choir, Concert Choir, Women’s Choir, and the school musical. “I didn’t start performing seriously until around fourth grade,” Huczko says. Her first performance was in the high school’s show “Children of Eden”, where she was in children’s ensemble. She has also participated in many shows at New Song Studio in Latrobe. “Performing is a lot of fun and makes it easy to make great friends,” she said. “The people I’ve met in musical have become a second family to me.” Huczko has to find time to balance school and musical. “It gets a little hectic sometimes, but I like how it keeps me busy,” says Huczko. With a different choir practice every day after school, some would find it overwhelming and hard to juggle. “I think I don’t let it stress me out because of how much I truly enjoy being a part of each group,” she says. Huczko speaks on the amount of hard work put into each practice. “Both choir and musical is a lot more work than it seems,” she says. Musical practice is everyday after school for months, on top of the multiple different choir practices. Students involved in their school should be appreciated for the large amounts of dedication put into their work. “I only hope that the students and faculty enjoy what we do and understand the hard work put into it,” Huczko says.
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Jewelry Making Taught by Resident Artist Sara Majorsky, Business Manager Art is a form of expression. It’s a way for people to showcase their capabilities, emotions, and creativity. Many students in our school have a desire to turn their love for art into a career. Fortunately, art is one of the three tenants that our school fosters among academics and athletics. Every year, Mrs. Mack’s Portfolio Prep Class participates in an activity called “Artist in Residency” where students learn new skill sets from people in different art careers. “Every year the McfeelyRogers Foundation supports our program and allows the students to look further into possible art careers. Portfolio Prep is a class for students who want to pursue art and it develops their personal career pathway,” said Mack. This year, 14 students had the opportunity to learn jewelry making from Mrs. Mack’s two brothers, John and George Clark. “John M. Clark Designer-Goldsmith” is a business in ligonier run by both brothers where they produce their own unique jewelry creations. During 10 days, over a 3 to 4 week period this past November, students worked on individual projects where they created jewelry and decorations using copper, brass, sheet metal, and wire. Along with the time they had in class to work on it, students had the chance to go on a field trip to the Clark’s workshop in Ligonier. The jewelry and decoration project came with a 5 step process: ~First, the students learned how to fabricate metal by cutting it into sections and sawing the edges. ~Next, they began soldering pieces together. They did this by heating pieces of wire or metal together in a way the makes them work cohesively. ~Once the structure of the piece of jewelry was set, the next step was to enhance their projects with beading. Senior, Izzy Miller, utilized this technique in her piece. She constructed a tree out of copper wire and added beads at the bottom. The beads can be interpreted as seedlings growing into life. ~An optional step to this process was piercing. Piercing is done by
cutting shapes and designs into the almost finished project to create an interesting look. Senior, Tate Mcelhaney, vigilantly used this technique to cut a crescent moon and stars onto his cuff bracelet. ~Lost wax casting was the final step to the jewelry making procedure. This gave the student’s projects a glossy and finished look “I was glad that the students got to participate in this project and that my brothers were a part of it,“ said Mrs. Mack. She recommends any upcoming juniors and seniors that are passionate about art to join the class next year, regardless if they do or do not want to pursue a career in an artistic field. This project along with others proves the dedication our school has for artistic endeavors.
Artists Earn Honors and Paint Community with Pride
Sara Majorsky, Business Manager Back in September, NAHS worked together to paint a snow plow for the 2018 PennDOT Paint the Plow contest. This year’s artwork was designed by Senior Grace Binkey and was selected, along with Yough High School, as co-winners of the contest. NAHS worked diligently during Lunch to complete this project and their dedication will show this winter when the roadways are cleared of snow. Their efforts to paint the plow, will not only keep the winter atmosphere positive, it will keep drivers safe as they travel this holiday season.
On November 29th, the National Art Honor Society held inductions for new students with a distinct ambition for art. NAHS acknowledges students with a good work ethic, creativity and artistic ability. Junior, Maddi Bentley, accepting her NAHS certificate from Mrs. Mack.
After the induction ceremony, family, previous NAHS members, and the new inductees were treated to a cake and fruit punch.
All Photots Taken By Sara Majorsky
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THINGS TO GET INTO THE HOLIDAY SEASON UNDER $25.00! -Ice skating at Kirk S. Nevin Is $16.00 for a couple including ice skates! -Overly’s Country christmas (lights) is $20.00 for a carload of people and it’s $4.00 for walk in’s (cash only) -Christmas shopping -Movie night (christmas themed) free! -Sledding free! -Making cookies $5.00 -Ginger bread houses $10.00 -Build a snowman free! Taylor Harden, Staff Writer
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Merry Christmas from the High Post