Pocono Mountain East HYPED Spring Magazine

Spring 2018

a look at associated alumni exceptional performances in class & the community

InsideEAST 6 7 8 11 12 16 18 21 22 23 25 26

FEATURES

A Musical Journey He Said YES Guys & Dolls Give It Their All King & Queens of the Mountain Student Spotlights Return of the Cardinals Scouting the Eagles Extreme Makeover PEC Edition 30+ Club HYPED Graduates For the Kids Expand Beyond Comic Sans

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Spring 2018

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East students embrace creative opportunities performing Guys & Dolls HYPED TM magazine is a trademarked concept created to provide students with hands-on publication experience. This edition’s features, photos and design are provided by Pocono Mountain East High School participants and professional coordinators. Inquiries? Please contact HYPED 570.517.1792

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By Maria Fiume

This April, the Pocono Mountain East High School Music Department headed to Florida!

Since the beginning of the school year, choir and band students raised money to pay for the trip. They sold Gertrude Hawk chocolate, Krispy Kreme donuts, and more. For some students, like Junior Jonathan Canty, their trip was paid for entirely by money they fundraised. Hard work really did pay off! One student, Junior Athena Rajnai said, “It makes me happy to know that there are people out there supporting our department and its future endeavors!” Athena, show choir choreographer and performer, attended the trip and couldn’t wait to make new memories while doing what she loves most.

In the fall, all choir and band students were able to apply for the trip. Once they applied, their paperwork was reviewed by both Mrs. Stein, the choral teacher, and Mr. Eick, the band director.

They were also reviewed by the attendance office and building administration. After being approved, the planning began because getting all of the students, chaperones, and equipment through an airport was the most challenging part of the whole experience!

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On the trip, four ensembles performed, including concert choir, concert band, mixed show choir, and jazz band at Universal Studios for the first time! “I’m looking forward to the workshops and performances,” said Mrs. Stein. “It’s nice to perform in a big venue in front of a new audience who is really enthusiastic,” she continued. The Music Department never failed to impress at home and carried on the tradition at Universal!

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Spring 2018

By Chris Bauer Photos by and provided by Piper Johnson

Pocono Mountain East High School brought back a tradition long forgotten: the Sadie Hawkins dance. The Sadie Hawkins Dance, or Sadies, is just like your typical school dance. However, rather than the usual guys-ask-girls proposals, the roles are reversed, and the ladies ask instead. It’s a fun twist that really makes this dance unique. The weeks leading up to the dance were filled with excitement, anticipation, and confidence, as girls designed and delivered clever proposals for their prospective dates.

Students flocked to the dance floor in the cafeteria on Saturday, February 3rd and danced the night away. The night was filled with laughs, dancing, pictures, and pure happiness. Even some of the teachers, like Mrs. New-

lander-Jones, jumped in on the fun and showed off their moves.

The dance was decorated in a beautiful winter theme that made it even better. Erin Cusumano, one of the organizers of the dance, says this is just the beginning for the new tradition, “It was successful for sure, but since it was the first one, there’s room for improvement, and I’m excited for what it will be like next year”. What made the dance so great though?

When questioned, Erin replied, “I think what made the dance great was the fun and exciting energy everyone brought. Everyone was so friendly and just wanted to have fun with their friends and make it enjoyable for the whole school.”

The Sadies Dance was a blast brought back from the past, and will continue to create memories for the school.

Seeing girls creatively ask guys to Sadies was super exciting for everyone.

The school came together at the dance, which was so beautifully decorated, and had a great time! -Senior Nikki Evans

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T

he stage of Pocono Mt. East was filled with exhilaration, gambling, and love during the months leading up to March 16th through the 19th. The musical production of Guys and Dolls for the 2018 school year was brought to life by director Dr. Ellen Currie. Dr. Currie first directed this musical in the early 2000s at Pocono Mt. West High School.

Dr.Currie explained, “With not knowing the cast and how they would work, it was useful to have a show that I knew already.” One of the leads, Junior Athena Rajina, who played Miss Adelaide, explained, “Due to having a new director, a lot of positive changes have occurred and I’m positive our production will be one for the books.”

The burlesque, crap-shooting show allowed for a new excitement that took over the stage.

The show follows the love stories of two different couples, the less-than-traditional couple Sky Masterson and Sarah Brown, and the on-off

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again couple, Nathan Detroit and Miss Adelaide.

The whirlwind of the show brings the cast to the sewers, the clubs, the streets of Havana, Cuba, and the race track! With late night and weekend rehearsals, the cast worked tirelessly to create and perform a genuine performance. Lead actress Junior Christina Carty, who played Sarah Brown, said, “The cast is filled with such talented, hardworking individuals that give it their all to embody their characters and put on the best show possible.”

The musical brought a variety of talented people to work together. Lead Actor Senior Zach Brown, who played Nathan Detroit, explained, “The musical is special because it accommodates for every student at East. It doesn’t matter if you’re the scholar or athlete, the extrovert or introvert. From magical kingdoms to the rugged streets of the 1950s, everyone is sure to call the musical home.”

Spring 2018

By Piper Johnson Photos by Emily Hollar

musical is special “ The it accommodate s e ver y student at East. It doe sn’t mat ter if you’re the scholar or athle te, the e xt rovert, or int rovert.

”

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By Erik Valencia Photos by Emily Opshinsky

Victories were anything but foreign to the Pocono Mountain East High School Chess team. Guidance counselor and chess connoisseur Mr. Bias has coached the team for the last 21 years, following its creation 25 years-ago.

Throughout its existence, the Chess Team managed to earn 14 straight MVC championships, along with three straight EPC titles, two state titles, and the prestigious title of coastal champion. Not surprisingly, the chess team is one of the most successful programs throughout the Pocono Mountain School District.

maximum effort and strenuous hours of practice. The Chess team practiced Monday through Thursday after school until 5pm, mastering their craft and preparing for any upcoming matches. One member, Sophomore Harris Bilal, stated that his team’s success derives from “team-

Though it seemed to have come easily to this impressive team, such high levels of success did not come without

Spring 2018

work and motivation.” This teamwork and motivation was fueled by the mutual passion for chess shared among the dedicated members. Although the team in general has been successful throughout its history.

Senior Matthew Velardi has accomplished some astounding feats individually. The stellar senior has advanced to nationals on numerous occasions, and won the Divisional State Title, along with many other accolades. The Pocono Mountain East High School Chess Team is comprised of optimistic and successful students, eager to strive to accomplish any challenge.

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She’s been singing in the chorus since 5th grade, dancing since age 5, and marching in the band throughout high school; but wait, there’s more. Listing everything Junior Athena Rajnai does for the East Music Department would be longer than this article.

Singing, dancing, and marching her way through life here at East, Athena is involved in chorus and show choir, marching band, acting, and dancing. The arts have captivated her since she was young because it is so unique and very expressive. “It is very cool to see how everyone can express themselves, and how differently everyone does it.”

She also treasures the unity it brings, and how easy it is the connect with other people who share the same passion.

Athena played the lead role of Miss Adelaide in East High School’s spring musical production Guys and Dolls, a turn of the century musical with lots

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of singing, dancing, and fun. Set in 1950s New York, Guys and Dolls focuses on the romances of Nathan Detroit and his gambling adventures.

Inspiration comes a little easier for Rajnai, as she does not have any particular role models, but rather looks up to “anyone who is bold enough to pursue their dream in the art.” In the future. Athena wants to study music in Boston or New York City, and wants to be a professional vocalist.

POCONO MOUNTAIN EAST HIGH SCHOOL

Spring 2018

You might find #22 dribbling down the basketball court or taking photos for the yearbook. On the court, East High School Junior Macy Berryman is a combination guard for the girls basketball team who averages 13.5 points per game and is ranked in the top ten players in the Eastern Pennsylvania Conference (EPC). She had 93 points in four games and recently earned the title of Athlete of the Week by the Morning Call. She also plays travel basketball for the Lehigh Valley Fever.

On her “off-days” she attends the YMCA in Stroudsburg and practices with other local basketball players. She said, “I believe that upcoming girl basketball players should practice with boys because I believe that is what made me a better athlete.” Macy looks to other players for inspiration, such as WNBA athlete, Lindsay Whalen, because. “She plays for WNBA and she plays with similar style of my own play.” She also admires East High School alumna, Khyasia Caldwell because “of how hard she worked to attain her

By Ryan Seymour and Khattab Ahmed Photos by Erik Valencia and Emily Hollar

goals.” Like some of her role models, Macy would like to play basketball for a division one college.

When Macy is not playing basketball, she is working on the yearbook or writing. She explained, “Creative writing allows me to express myself and create.” In addition to writing in her free time, she has competed

in several writing competitions through the gifted program, overall, she writes for her own enjoyment.

SENIOR Matt Velardi is the kind of student that colleges dream about, which is why he earned a full scholarship to The University of Scranton.

He is a National Merit Scholarship finalist, a skilled member of the Chess Team, and a tuba player for the band.

Velardi is planning to study astrophysics in college, something that has interested him since he was young. In addition to Scranton, he is also interested in Lycoming College, and has many other choices due to his academic success.

With his choice of colleges, he is not taking it easy senior year.

He is studying Calculus 3 as an independent study, and, as a result of his hard work throughout high school, is a finalist for the National Merit Scholarship, an award given to students interested in pursuing careers in mathematics and science.

Despite all of his academic success, Matt still has time to explore other interests and passions, like music and

chess. He plays tuba for the band, and enjoys listening to Frank Sinatra.

Velardi is also an integral member of the chess team. When asked if he had any good high school advice to give to underclassmen; “Always study, and listen to your teachers.”

And for balancing school work with extracurricular activities, Matt explained, “It is better to commit to a few sports and activities, rather than try to do a lot of them and be less committed and involved.”

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As a young child, FRESHMAN Jeremiah Nyakundi had a mind for business. At the age of 5, his uncles taught him how to play Monopoly and that was when he realized he had a love for creating empires, working his way to the top, and taking on responsibility. Jeremiah had his first business, an online drop shipping store, up and running at age 11.

He is currently spending most of his time assisting in the development of Prime Generation Clothing Brand, of which he is the CEO and co-found-

er. He’s also spending much of his time trading bitcoin, a popular digital currency created in 2009.

When he’s not doing business, he is networking with new people. He explained, “ As long as you put great people around you, success is bound to happen.” In addition to networking, he has a support system comprised of his parents, uncle, and Aliko Dangote.

Not surprisingly, Jeremiah is an active member of Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA), serving as the Treasurer of Region 21.

He said, “FBLA has given him a business oriented space to communicate and consume resources.” In the future, Jeremiah plans on being an investment banker. He advised, “Dream big dreams because small dreams have no magic.”

East Student

SPOTLIGHTS

Our way to celebrate all sorts of great student achievements at Pocono Mountain East High School.

Have a someone you feel deserves spotlight recognition?

Contact Dr. Christina Bracey CBracey@PMSD.org

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Close your eyes and picture yourself as a student at Pocono Mountain East. Did you picture bright disco colors, or class sizes with over 1,000 graduates? Most students do not. But believe it or not, this is what popped into some teacher’s heads. These beautiful memories that came to mind belong to those of our Pocono Mountain alumni, who are now back working in the East High School.

Miss Lisa Collier, 2008 Art

Mr. Richard Ludka, 1990 Swimming

Mrs. Carrie Stein, 1996 Music

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For most of these staff members, recalling their high school days was a wondrous walk through time.

Spanish teacher Mrs. Christie, Class of 1975, remembered the current Swiftwater Intermediate School being a building for grades seven through 12. That little building currently housing fourth, fifth, and sixth grades, was once home to thousands of students, ranging from ages 12 to 18. SIS was the only building, up until 1975, when the current junior high opened as the high school.

All students go through interesting fads and styles.

Music teacher Mrs. Stein, Class of 1996, recalled one of the biggest trends in 1996 being the “Rachel” haircut, from the all too familiar sitcom “Friends”. Their style of clothing and interest in entertainment actually did not vary much from today. Swim instructor Mr. Ludka, Class of 1990, recalled that style trends were the “same as now, with the tight ankle jeans and pants,” and “rap music was just beginning.”

While there were some similarities, there were obviously many differences. Many students don’t know that art teacher Miss Collier, Class of 2008, was able to take classes such as Comedy & Satire. She remembers watching and analyzing comedy movies, and creating comedic skits. While some classes are not available now, teachers are happy to see the growth in different classes and activities students can now be a part of. English teacher Mrs. Baker, Class of 1992, wishes she could have taken the careers course that all students take with Ms. Garvey. “I think it is so helpful for students.”

High school students were often told to embrace these years. Many students created life-long friendships. Mrs. Schafer, Class of 1982, revealed, “Throughout high school there were five friends and we were always together. Today, we are still all really close friends even though we are spread out all over the country.”

Spring 2018

By Emily Hollar Current photos by Emily Hollar Yearbook photos provided by Ashley Cavanagh

16 members of our staff at the East High School graduated from Pocono Mountain, including:

Mr. Jason Anglada 1999 Physical Education

Mrs. Becky Jo Baker 1992 English

Miss Jessica Johnson 1999 Math

Mr. Jeff Kojeszewski 1993

Mrs. Amy Bullis 1991

Mrs. Yvonne Christie 1975 Spanish

Mrs. Julie Evans 1996 Biology

Mrs. Kyleen Newlander-Jones 2002 Biology

Mrs. Diane Schafer 1982

Mr. Jerusalem Strickland

Non-Teaching Assistant

Non-Teaching Assistant

Non-Teaching Assistant

2006 Paraprofessional

Not mentioned on this list is our district School Board Member, Mr. H. John Davis, Class of 1966, and Board President, Mr. Rusty Johnson, Class of 1980!

Ms. Kerri Tallmadge 1994 Biology

Mr. R Jay Unternahrer 1997 Technical Education

Mrs. Dawn Weiss 1987 Attendance Secretary

Mr. H. John Davis 1966

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Mr. Rusty Johnson 1980

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By Christian Bethea Photos provided by Emily Hollar

F ly Eagles Fly! No, I am not talking about the Super

Bowl 52 Champions, the Philadelphia Eagles, I am talking about the Eagle Scouts at Pocono Mountain East High School. What are the Eagles you ask? Well, the Eagles are a premier league in the Boy Scouts who have been quietly working to benefit their community.

Eagles are the highest level a Boy Scout can achieve and it is a very rare and illustrious achievement. Less than 10% of the Boy Scout population actually complete what it takes to get in this group. Extensive amounts of community service, badge accumulation, and a significant community project must be planned, approved, and executed to earn the title of Eagle Scout. This may seem like a small ordeal to some, but all of this must be completed by the age of 18! Sebastian Churrion, for example, worked to put gravel down on a walkway in a community center in his area.

When interviewing some of the Eagles currently enrolled at East, they spoke about the immense impact being a Boy Scout has had on their lives. Junior Sebastian Churion spoke of learning “respect, kindness, and leadership” as a member of the Scouts. While creating their eagle scout project, the boys learned how their projects would not only affect their troop, but their community as well. Senior Chris Bauer is in the midst of his Eagle Scout project, building a bathroom in High Acres Park. He chose this project because in the upper park, the nearest bathroom is more than a quarter mile away. He wanted to “create easy access for those enjoying the upper park.” Senior Zach Brown built a dedication path, also along High Acres Park, with bricks and

plaques dedicated to people who have served in Monroe County. These PME students are just a few examples of the Scouts among us who have taken their time to change the world, one brick at a time.

Below is a list of members of the East community who have become Eagle Scouts, and their projects that got them there.

So, if you recognize someone, you can congratulate them on a rare and challenging accomplishment!

Ja r ed Cz

Addison Adili built a solar powered information kiosk at Hamilton Jackson Park.

Santiago Churion built a bridge and constructed trails to a new meeting area at Meesing Nature Center.

Sebastian Churion refurbished a walkway at Meesing Nature Center.

Nick Govus built a bluestone walkway at a church with shadowbox fencing.

Jared Cziko built a flag retirement burn pit.

Zach Brown built a rededication trail in High Acres Park.

And the Eagles who are soon to come: Warren Planker is converting the first floor of a barn into an educational center at the Pocono Wildlife Rehabilitation Center.

Richard Kim is refurbishing the dugouts at Seven Pines Park.

Chris Bauer is building a bathroom in High Acres Park.

Brett Wagner is refurbishing the Tannerville baseball field dugouts.

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By Patrick Ramsdale Photo by Mr. Hantz

Since its closing, Pocono Elementary Center has been used as a storage facility rather than a learning center. Thanks to Coordinated Health, PEC is now being turned into a sports complex for the Pocono Mountain community. The gymnasium has been renovated to accommodate the baseball and softball teams during winter seasons. A turf was added to the floor of the gym to allow players to practice fielding ground balls. Batting cages were installed for hitting practice. Tees and nets were also bought for the facility. Senior Michael Yates, a pitcher for the Cardinals baseball team, expressed his feelings about the facility by saying, “ It’s awesome! The renovation is going to be a huge addition to our program.

Instead of outdoor practices being rained out, we will be able to move inside and work.”

The old elementary school will not only serve purpose for the baseball team. There are plans in place to turn the cafeteria into a practice area for the golf team. Those plans include adding golf simulators for the golf team to use in the winter seasons before courses open back up. Simulators provide golfers with precise data about their shot that they would not be able to get on their own. These high tech setups track the ball and give the users feedback on ball flight, carry, total shot distance, trajectory, ball speed, and more. Technology like this can help new and veteran golfers develop and sharpen their skills. Hitting nets will be installed for golfers to use when they can not use a simulator. Golf is not all about hitting the ball as far as possible; it also requires a high level of precision and accuracy. An artificial putting green and chipping area will allow golfers to work on their short game.

This new facility will not only be used by Pocono Mountain athletes. When it is not in use by the school teams, it will be open to the public. The renovation of the Pocono Elementary Center was paid for entirely by Coordinated Health. Pocono Mountain East Athletic Director, William Hantz, when asked about the benefits of the renovation, stated, “I believe the facility at Pocono Elementary Center is a unique facility for Monroe County schools. It will allow us to keep on par with the other EPC schools, as far as working out and practicing.

It will benefit not just the high school programs, but eventually little leagues, which will in turn help the high school programs later on.”

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Thirty years ago, heavy metal music was on the rise, with bands such as Metallica and Guns N’ Roses. Ghostbusters was premiering in movie theaters across the nation; superstars such as Emma Stone and Adele were born, and for a handful of teachers at Pocono Mtn. East, their teaching career started. This elite group of teachers are a part of the group known as the 30+ Club. Chemistry and Forensics teacher, Michael Blough, describes the ride here at Pocono Mountain as, “a real roller coaster ride.” photo icle and

Art

Throughout the late 1980s to early 2000s, enrollment spiked and Pocono was considered one of the biggest districts in NEPA, but over the last 10 years, there has been a notable drop in enrollment. Mr. Blough has also been heavily involved in the athletics at Pocono Mountain and most recently has been involved with the success of 2017 graduate Khyasia Caldwell, who won the PA State Long Jump title three years in a row.

For Ms. Molly Lamoreaux- Robinson, a full time learning support teacher, the biggest improvements in the school are, “the impressive new school buildings,

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thoughtful curriculum adaptations, and increasing access to assistive technology.” However, with modern improvements come drawbacks as well.

For math teacher Margaret Bartolocci, she notices one of the toughest competitors to teaching is technology in the classroom. She says, “Instead of being one close-knit student body, the students often seem to be more disconnected from their peers.” But along with the challenges of technology, Mrs. Bartolocci still finds value in, “Teaching common sense, good logic, and the ability to perform basic math computations with or without a calculator.”

Mrs. Nancy Fritz, a special education and reading teacher, has the most experience teaching, starting 36 years ago! The advice she offers to new teachers is to, “be flexible, prepared, and to always have a strong cup of coffee as your best friend! Keeping a student’s best interest at heart will offer an unbelievable rewarding career!” These teachers have experienced a whirlwind of experiences, and are still excited to teach everyday. The 30+ Club is an elite group of experienced and passionate teachers who have influenced students for over three decades. They are pillars of their profession.

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Information gathered by Jordyn Middaugh Photos by Danielle Kunkel

The senior members of Hyped are excited to graduate and flourish at their chosen colleges.

Danielle Kunkel Maryland Institute College of Art

Patrick Ramsdale Shippensburg University Communications/Journalism

Jordyn Middaugh East Stroudsburg University Early Childhood Edu./Teacher

Mikaela Alt Coastal Carolina University Nursing

WEEK DOWNLOAD THE NEW CH AOTW APP AND VOTE FOR YOUR FAVORITE POCONO MOUNTAIN SCHOOL DISTRICT ATHLETE! SEARCH CH ATHLETE OF THE WEEK OR USE THE BELOW QR CODES TO DOWNLOAD

Chris Bauer University of Scranton Accounting

PiperJohnson Westchester University Bio. Medical Professional,

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For the past three years, Pocono Mountain East has hosted an annual Mini-thon Fundraiser. Mini-thon is an official part of Penn State’s Dance Marathon, called THON. All proceeds made through THON go directly to funding pediatric cancer. The East High School Mini-thon is a 12 hour long, on-your-feet-event hosted at East to raise money for childhood cancer. In 2017, students raised $12,434 and this year, organizers worked to surpass that goal. The goal for this year was $15,000.

Organizing the event were Seniors Jessie Hohenstein, Amanda Gerenza, Junior Sierra Stout, and Sophomore Grayson Bonifacio, members of the Student Government Association, advised by Ms. Landseidel and Mr. Gilroy. Events planned for the marathon event included relay races, sports tournaments, a scavenger hunt, Zumba, and a game called “Bounce it”. The organizers expected a big turn out to the event, with all students allowed to attend. Not only was money raised at the event, but donations were also collected by anyone outside of the school until the day of the event. Fundraisers were held at Moe’s Southwest Grill and Five Guys Burgers to help add to the overall amount raised.

Each past Mini-thon has increasingly improved,making the expectations high for this year. The first Mini-thon was held when this year’s senior class were just freshmen, allowing them to be a part of every Mini-thon event held so far at East.

Senior Sydney Seip, who attended Mini-thon for the past three years, commented, “I am so excited for this year’s Mini-thon to support such a great cause. Our Mini-thon has only gotten better and better throughout the past three years. I am glad I got to experience the first Thon as a freshman and will be able to go to this year’s Mini-thon as a senior.” The students were excited to make it the best one yet and raise more money for pediatric cancer.

Mrs. Newlander-Jones has the task of shaving Mr. Gilroy’s head who volunteered if the students raised $250 or more in 2017.

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s n a S c i Com d n y e B d n Expa

For many years, Pocono Mountain offered a variety of basic technology classes, such as Java and AP Computer Science, but also ones that include artistic elements, such as Graphic Design, Digital Media, and Animation.

These allow the students taking those classes to compete in fairs like the Pennsylvania High School Computer Fair. In 2011, students advanced to and won the state level competition, earning a cash prize of $150.

This year, three students attended the fair on Friday, March 16, 2018 at Northampton Community College with their teacher Mrs. Heather Baldauff. They were evaluated on numerous concepts, including storyline, cinematography, storyboarding, appearance/design, and most importantly, creativity. Seniors Patrick Ramsdale and Jehdiah Graham earned first and second place in digital movie, and Sophomore Brianna Cook earned third place

in animation.

Patrick advanced in the competition at Dickinson College and competed at the state level on May 22, 2018.

Without the opportunities to participate in classes such as these with state of the art Mac-labs and award winning teachers, students would not be able to express their talents and potentially find a career for them to pursue. It turned our school into a more diverse environment, more than just a school for the athletically

y Miller

By Brittne aldauff Heather B y Photos b

inclined, or the academically gifted, but a school for those who wish to find their passion and turn it into a lifestyle.

Interested in expanding your creativity?

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COMMUNITY SUPPORT FOR EXCELLENCE IN EDUCATION

Consider a Design Activity...Connect with Heather Baldauff HBaldauff@PMSD.org

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make sense Financial literacy, defined as the ability to understand how money works in the world, is a concept First Keystone Community Bank considers crucial in preparing today’s youth for tomorrow’s independence. With a strong commitment to sharing the fundamental basics, seminars and classroom collaborations by banking professionals introduce the ABC’s of checking and savings accountability.

The skills acquired during the sessions enable participants to maintain records, master mathematics for making wise decisions based on balances, and understand why it’s important to set aside funds for living expenses. Learning how to make responsible credit decisions helps build scores that will eventually turn the dream of investing in a home into a reality.

As First Keystone has established a presence throughout the Pocono region with branches in Swiftwater, Mountainhome, Stroudsburg and Brodheadsville, its commitment to providing confidence you can bank on will continue.

After all, helping dollars make sense is a smart way to secure the financial stability of a community and its residents…our friends, our neighbors.

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COMMUNITY SUPPORT FOR EXCELLENCE IN EDUCATION

POCONO MOUNTAIN EAST HIGH SCHOOL

Spring 2018