April 2014

The Stinger

Guidology Adieu, Adieu

When we’re young we think we have it all planned out.

Life spreads before us like an open buffet of opportunities just waiting to be explored. Decisions are made in the split of instant without thought for a future that seems oh so distant, yet oh so secure.

We live beneath our parents, teachers, advisors wings acquiring little tastes of what the world can grant. We are taught mantras that follow us through school: work hard so you can play hard, treat others the way you would like to be treated, and the like.

We try to apply those, and for the most part they work in our own little cocoons of safety. We believe the world is a fair place, and there is very little telling us otherwise.

The attack on the World Trade Center seemed distant. I understood many people died, but the magnitude of the situation did not hit me. I was at McDonalds and just wanted my chicken nuggets.

Then we grow, we age. The wings are slowly pulled back, and we see more and more of the world.

We hold onto our mantras, still believing in their truth.

I more so understood the economic crisis in 2007. I saw gas prices rise, and the talk on the news change. Many respectable, hard-working people (yes, in addition to some not so good people) were hurt. Those who could foresee disaster, who knew that the world was not all rainbows and unicorns, were nevertheless affected but had prepared accordingly.

As we, the senior class, prepare to enter into another stage of our lives, one where we can stand almost unshadowed, we must learn to accept the world for what it is.

We will face new challenges that are beyond comprehension at this moment in time, and we are left with a choice.

We can then either go along with the status quo or shape it for better or worse.

Lingering in the shadows, complaining about the state of the world, is easy. Or rather: easy comparatively speaking.

Cliché, I know, but as we move into this world, don’t believe that you are not capable of change.

Even those of us who seem destined for middle class suburbia do not have to fall off into monotony.

As Mewtwo realized, “I see now that the circumstances of one’s birth are irrelevant; it is what you do with the gift of life that determines who you are.”

We have the opportunity to grow from where we have come, to take what we have learned and move further.

Universities may believe that a person’s birth is relevant to the work they will produce, and do not believe that it ends there, as many employers are forced to follow the same sorts of programs, but clearly if even a show designed for children but enjoyed by all ages alike can realize such a suitably phrased lesson, this idea must mean something.

Through our twelve, thirteen, fourteen plus years, we have gone through quite a bit. Our eyes have been opened, and we have been exposed to events that are just now affecting us.

The world we are entering is by no means all rainbows and unicorns. What we were taught as children will not work perfectly every time, as many of us have already found out. If we allow the lack of utopian setting to bring us down, then our surroundings will appear to become worse and worse, nigh on unbearable.

Rather, if we learn to recognize that maybe someone who worked half as hard will at a given moment in time rocket off to be twice as far or plans that you have lived by will explode in your face or perhaps others will step on you to get ahead but know that everything happens for a reason, we will no doubt adapt.

If we pick ourselves up no matter how many times we get knocked down and refuse to live with injustice, as the future that seemed distant so long ago hits us, we have the ability to shape our world, to create the kind of place that we want to inhabit.

We create our own opportunities.

Editor-in-chief Katrina Guido @Kitty_Guido Managing Editor of News Destiny Nagle Managing Editor of Opinion Savannah Pukanecz @SavannahPukes

A Hunger for Challenges Math teacher Chris Ritter’s obsession with food competitions

Perhaps you’ve seen ESPN’s coverage of Nathan’s prestigious hot dog eating contest held each year on the 4th of July. I’m not sure when, but sometime during my 35 years Managing Editor of Feature on the planet, I started becoming involved in food contests Justine Coleman like Nathan’s. My earliest memory of participation dates back to my night of my dad’s second marriage. During the reception, my new step-brother offered me money to dump Managing Editor of Culture the melted butter from the serving dishes into my empty Emma Wang glass and drink it through the straw. I suppose this was @ECaroline7 his way of saying welcome to the family. Well, challenge Managing Editor of Sports accepted and completed! The next morning I awoke with Steve Gudonis pains in my stomach and had to stay home from school. As @_SteveG_ an 8-year-old, this was a win-win situation. I got a day off from school and was $3 richer.

Online Editor I never really reflected on the number of challenges I’ve Kevin Rodgers completed until I was approached to write an article for The Stinger. As I began to reflect, I started to notice a comSection Editor of News mon theme. I didn’t actively seek out eating challenges.

Colleen Grablick Instead, I was partaking in challenges as the opportunities @collllsss presented themselves. I also noticed that I’m picky about the challenges in which I participate. If the contest has Section Editor of Opinion a high likelihood of me getting sick and seeing my food Dave Heiney again, it’s not for me. I’m going to take part in a challenge if I think the goal is attainable and that I will enjoy the Section Editor of Feature experience.

Christine Carlson My first refusal of a challenge was during my high school days. I had won a bet with my uncle who now owed me a steak dinner at the popular Gregory’s Steakhouse.

Section Editor of Culture Upon our arrival at Gregory’s we noticed the parking lot Eamon Dreisbach was a bit more crowded than usual. As it turned out, WWE wrestler, Yokozuna, was walking out having just completed Section Editor of Sports the establishment’s eating challenge. My uncle’s attempts John Lang to goad me into accepting the same challenge were for @JohnLang05 naught. I quickly calculated that if a 600-lb professional wrestler can manage a 96-ounce steak, then a “five-foot Photo Editor nothing, hundred and nothing” puny teenager should be Maura Benner attempting a more modest and comparable 16-ounce steak.

For the mathematically challenged, 600 lbs./96 oz. = 100 Copy Editors lbs./16 oz. Although I may not have completed the official Shaun Baillie challenge that Gregory’s offered, I did feel some pride Olivia Riccio knowing that was the largest meal I had eaten up to that Angeline Stein point in my life.

My proudest eating accomplishment (and also the most challenging) was conquering the Godzilla Burger at Boston Adviser College’s Eagle’s Deli. The Godzilla Burger meal consists Denise Reaman of consuming one pound of meat covered with 4 slices of cheese and a side of one-pound of French fries with the latter proving to be the arduous part. My sense of gratification upon completion was not only because I finished the challenge, but more so because of who didn’t. Leading up Editorial Policy to this challenge there was some banter amongst friends, The Stinger is a student-run newspaper published six times per year. Its and the one who talked the most is the only one who has content, which is the responsibility of the student staff, is not subject to yet to attempt the challenge. He’ll never forget it either direct administrative approval. The newspaper, which is designed as an since I remind him of it every time we see each other. open forum, serves to inform and entertain its readers as well as students As I have gotten older and my metabolism has slowed, interested in print media studies. more effort is needed to work off the calories gained during these challenges. Thus, my focus shifted from quantity Visit our website stingerehs.com. to speed when the brainchild of a coworker was born, The Cheesesteak Challenge. Once you’ve navigated the If you are interested in writing or taking photos for The Stinger, stop by superfluous rules like the official cooling off period and the Room 559 for more information. If you’d like to publish a letter to the placement of your hands to start the contest, the basic prineditor or have a story idea, drop us a line at stingerEHS@gmail.com. ciple is to eat a cheesesteak and drink a glass of water as fast as possible. The movement quickly gained popularity 2014 Keystone Press Awards among colleagues and eventually grew large enough that Second Place Ongoing News Coverage the waitresses would gather to watch us compete. CurrentHonorable Mention News Story ly, my Cheesesteak Challenge personal best is 1 minute, First, Second, Honorable Mention Public Service Package 12 seconds. Yes, we keep statistics. But it was during these First Place Feature Story contests that any dreams I might have to one day compete First, Second Place Personality Profile in Nathan’s Hot Dog Eating Contest were crushed. I am Honorable Mention Column Writing a pretty fast eater, but I’m nowhere near the class of the Second Place Review Writing big boys, or in this case, the little guy who destroyed the First Place Photo Story Cheesesteak Challenge field in a mere 56 seconds.

Honorable Mention Website As much as I’d love to continue and describe my eating experiences with Reece’s Peanut Butter Cups and Ice 2013 Keysone Press Awards Cream Waffle Sandwiches, there’s only a finite amount Second Place and Honorable Mention Column Writing of space that The Stinger can offer me. So I’ll bring this First Place Public Service Package column to a close by sharing my most recent indulgence in Second Place Feature Story gluttony. A Cheeburger Cheeburger franchise opened near First Place Ongoing News Coverage my home who offers an eating challenge that allows your picture to be placed on their wall of fame if you can finish their 20-ounce hamburger. While the endeavor of scarfing down an oversized piece of meat might be similar to other challenges I’ve completed, there was one difference that made this one much more worthwhile. I was able to share this experience with my son. And even though this challenge was about completion, not speed, I just couldn’t help myself. In less than three minutes, a picture of my son and I had earned its spot on the wall.

@StingerEHS

April, 2014

3

A Dose of Destiny

Looking Back

Destiny Nagle

IN DEPTH REPORTING ON TOPICS THAT MATTER TO YOU

MANAGING EDITOR DESTINY NAGLE SECTION EDITOR COLLEEN GRABLICK

News

Sitting in my trigonometry class, I look around at all the drowsy, bored looking faces. Each and every person here is fighting the urge to fall asleep and trying to keep their focus on what is going on up on the white board.

Every now and then, there is a student who loses his battle and allows his eyes to cascade closed. Everyone is a senior in this class, so this is expected of them, Destiny Nagle isn’t it?

Thinking to myself, I ask what a ma- News Editor jority of these seniors would blame as the reason they aren’t paying attention and The 2014-2015 school year will be falling asleep. brought in with newly appointed superinSenioritis. tendent Michael Schilder.

One word can describe the feelings of School directors recently voted 9-0 to an entire class of about 600 people. hire Schilder, who will begin his position Now, as a senior, I completly under- as superintendent officially on July. He stand the feeling of senioritis. Dreading will replace Dr. Thomas Seidenberger, any interaction with work or school. The who announced his retirement earlier this constant thirst for freedon from the shack- year. les of being a primary education student.

Due to his superintendent certificate Anyone I talk to can attest to this. being inactive, Shilder has until the end of There are days where I walk into school next school year to revalidate it. However, with an almost annoyed look on my face if unable to, he will no longer be superinbecause I had to get out of bed to be here, tendent. in school, when I would much rather be A New Jersey native, Schilder spent drowning in darkness and warmth under seven years of his career tending to the my big fluffy blanket. needs of 9,000 students at Bridgewater On these days, I hate the world and Raritan School District, until last year. dread any interaction I have to make or He started off as a fifth grade elementary any work I have to do. school teacher and worked his way up to I can see the finish line. One more principal of Central Bucks School District, month, I tell myself all too often. located in Doylestown.

After 12 years of schooling, I am almost there. I’ve almost completed the race.

So, yeah, I understand when all those other seniors say they have senioritis and don’t want to be in school. But I also Colleen Grablick understand when my mom tells me she News Editor wishes she was back in high school.

These are supposed to be the best days After a 45-year relationship with First of our lives, aren’t they? We are supposed Student, the East Penn School District will to stay out late with friends, and really begin the 2014-2015 school year with a just enjoy today. We are never going to be new transportation company. here in this moment again. We have the The East Penn School Board selected world at our fingertips.

Student Transportation of America last One thing I can say is I wish I would month in an 8-1 vote as the new primary have realized this earlier. Senior year is busing company for the district. STA, usually described as “easy” and “fun.” headquartered in New Jersey, currently The school does so much for seniors serves other districts around the area, such to ensure that “best year ever” feeling, as Bangor and Northampton. and I never took advantage of these opAccording to school board president portunities. Personally, my senior year is Alan Earnshaw, the board received proanything but easy and fun. posals from three different companies this I can sum up my senior year in three year. words: The board reviewed each company on Work. School. Sleep.

I don’t even eat three square meals a day because I don’t have the time to. All I do is work, and struggle to keep up at Cathryn Seibert school.

News Contributor And it seems that whatever I do, I can barely slide by. If I knew before that my On April 7, Emmaus High school welyear was going to be like this, I would comed 14 German exchange students and have done everything in my power to change that.

I barely have the time to see my friends and family. And when I do see them, I am dead tired because I worked and studied before I went to hang out with them. Before I know it, I’ll be in college, so this time is precious.

My advice to any underclassmen is to enjoy your youth and don’t grow up too fast. You’re only young once.

Now, I am not saying don’t get a job or don’t do your school work, but find a balance between the two. You don’t need to be working 6-7 days a week, like I am right now.

Plan out your time to have fun and enjoy yourself.

Before you know it, high school will be over, and you’re either looking back smiling because of how fun it was, or you’re looking back disappointed because you didn’t do everything you wanted to.

Find your little comfort zone for high German exchange students at Emmaus’ school. Find your balance. welcoming breakfast.

It’s your choice how you spend these Photo by Lindsay Harner years.

Choose wisely.

Michael Shilder chosen as new superintendent In August of 2013, Schilder retired because he “needed a change.” He comes to East Penn with high expectations.

“I’m excited about coming to East Penn,” said Schilder. “It’s a district known for academic integrity and attentiveness to all learners.”

Schilder also recognizes the need to familiarize himself with the school district and the people who occupy it. “[My] plan is to determine district strengths,” said Schilder, “and areas of need by meeting as many parents, staff, and students as possible and familiarizing myself with existing Board of Education goals and objectives.”

Shilder praised the district on it’s outstanding staff.

“Staff members are proud to be here and rightfully so,” said Schilder. “Great teachers make great districts.”

Alan Earnshaw, president of the school board, believes Schilder was the best candidate for the job. He has the experience, credentials, and knowledge, he told 69 News after they announced Schilder as

East Penn’s new superintendent, Michael Schilder. Photo courtesy of WFMZ.com the new superintendent.

Schilder believes the bond between student and teacher is of the utmost importance and is why this school district is so sucessful.

“My primary belief is that the most important relationship is public education,” said Schilder, “and the one that makes the most difference is the fundamental relationship between teacher and student.”

East Penn ends 45-year relationship with First Student different qualifications and criteria.

“The proposals were evaluated on several criteria,” said Earnshaw, “including service costs, fuel costs, average fleet age, services included, and flexibility during the duration of the contract.”

Earnshaw claimed that STA generated the best proposal, while not fulfilling every stipulation.

“STA’s proposal had the best overall proposal, though they were not the top company on every criterion,” said Earnshaw.

According to Earnshaw, the five-year contract requires no more negotiation.

“All of the the terms of the agreement were included in STA’s proposal to the district,” said Earnshaw. “The attorneys are finalizing the contract language that

includes all the terms; no additional negotiations are needed.”

Board member Lynn Donches cast the only negative vote. She did not favor the longevity of the contract.

“I would have preferred a shorter contract and a stronger guarantee that the new company will save money over the long term,” said Donches.

According to Earnshaw, with the switch will come a few changes to the district’s transportation. STA’s buses will run on propane instead of diesel fuel, which will reduce air pollution. Additionally, STA utilizes software that optimizes bus routes, reducing time and fuel usage.

Superintendent Tom Seidenberger and district operations director Lynn Glancy declined to comment on the switch.

their advisor, Silke Jostmeier, to America.

American host students met the German students with welcome signs and posters.

The German students consisted of 10 girls and four boys, ages 15 to 17, from Freiherr vom Stein Realschule in Rahden, Germany.

Meghan Pribicko and Dawn Laubner, both EHS teachers, planned many activities for the group, including a picnic, trips to Philadelphia and the Crayola Factory, and a welcoming breakfast.

The German students went on other trips, too, such as excursions in Emmaus, the Wildlands Conservancy, Lincoln Elementary School, various middle schools, and an Iron Pigs baseball game. They participated in an ice cream social with Key Club, a kickball game with Interact Club, a scavenger hunt with German Club, and sat in at many classes at EHS. In addition to coordinated school events, host students and their families could take the German natives on other outings to locations of their choosing.

Upon arrival, the students noticed one distinct difference between their home country and America.

“Big everything,” Kim Julie Langenberg, 16, said. “In Germany, everything is small.”

Milena Starke, another German student agreed.

“Everything is bigger than in Germany,” Starke, 16, said. “The streets, the cars, everything.”

They noted other variations, as well.

“I think the people in America are nicer than the German ones,” Starke said. “Everyone is nice here.”

Sascha Renner observed that the cars and the trees differ from the ones he is so used to.

The Germans also anticipated experiencing America to the fullest.

“I want to see New York and Washington D.C.,” Langenberg said. “I think I will never be so near to this place again.”

Renner, who also wanted to visit New York, looked forward to the wide cultural diversity America offers.

Starke was more intrigued about the overall American way of life.

“I was really excited to see the school and the lifestyle of the American people,” Starke said. “And the food.”

After three weeks in America, the Germans students did not look forward to parting ways with their newfound American friends.

Last friday, the comrades said their goodbyes at EHS, before the German students left to board a plane in Philadelphia.

Emmaus welcomes German exchange students

4

Colleen’s Corner

THE STINGER

April, 2014

National Merit finalists announced Zoie Kassis News Contributor

Another requirement of becoming a finalist is writing an essay including accomplishments. About 15,000 students are expected to be finalists and 8,000 are chosen as Merit Scholarship recipients.

According to the National Merit Scholarship Program, the number of semifinalists in a select school is influenced by many factors, including the educational standards and the percent of seniors plan-

NEWS

them down,” said Piperato. “Many of them have no idea why they are in the princiBig decisions for a pal’s office, they usually think they’re in little person trouble. I sit down with the finalists and Five seniors from Emmaus High School congratulate them, its nice to see the exearned the ranking of National Merit As a high school student, I am constant- Scholars, placing them in a small but elite citement on their faces.” ly thinking about the future. Questions Overholts says she was excited and surgroup of the top academic performers in like “what are your plans for college?” or the nation. prised by the results. Overholt’s goal is to “where do you see yourself in ten years?” obtain her doctorate in chemistry.

The National Merit Scholarship Corposend waves of worry through my brain Three types of awards are available to ration (NMSC) is a nonprofit organization. as I try to convince myself that I know those selected. The awards can either Semifinalists who disexactly what I’m doing. The truth is, I “Being the principal is a wonderful job because be a single payment between $2,500 play remarkable inteldon’t. and $5,000, a renewable award with a lectual skills have the I’m only 16. we have so many outstanding students here at fixed sum between $1,000 and $5,000, possibility to advance I can’t legally operate a moving veand another renewable award with to the finalist level. hicle on my own yet. various sums ranging from $500 to The competition is Emmaus.”

I still hug my ratty old stuffed animal $10,000 per year that are separately sponsored by individtighter when I hear a bump in the night. determined. ual organizations and -Principal David Piperato But someway, somehow, my naive, Bishop says he achieved his goals NMSC’s own funds. adolescent, swimming pool of emotions with a lot of hard work academically, In over 22,000 high schools, about 1.5 milbrain is supposed to map out my future. ning on attending a college.

Also the procombined with extra curricular activities. lion students enlisted in the 2014 National Even just the word “future” holds so gram is influenced by the depth of school Bebout said he will attend Lehigh UniMerit Scholarship Program. many unknowns and big decisions. I miss curricular offerings, along with the extent versity to study engineering. Bishop is unAlan Bebout, Robert Bishop, Katrina being little when the disney show “Phil to which a student takes advantage of the decided on a college, but hopes to pursue Guido, Aife Ni Chochlain, and Anna Overof the Future” was the only context of the holts earned the title of National Merit Fi- elite courses provided. a career in the aerospace industry. word I was familiar with.

Each finalist will be considered to renalist.

Now, as I sit here in my bed at quarter ceive a $2,500 Semifinalists are chosen by SAT/Naof 12 at night, the last thing I want to do National Merit tional Merit Scholarship Qualifying Tests. is write a column ranting about how I s c h o l a r s hip.

The 16,000 semifinalists embody less than don’t want to grow up. I know have to. I one percent of the high school seniors. The NMSC know that I’m not going to be 16 forever, Students that complete the requirements of and indepenand that sooner or later I will have to face a semifinalist are awarded in the Spring of dent spondecisions that are bigger than choosing sors will send 2014 for National Merit Scholarships. what cereal to eat in the morning. But I s c h o l a r s hip Principal David Piperato said he was just don’t understand how teenagers who offers to sepleased with the number of students who possess an age old reputation for immatu- received the honor. lected finalists rity, irresponsibility, and inexperience can “I am extremely proud of these stu- and will notify be expected to have an idea of who they dents,” Piperato said. “I am proud of all the media this are, what they want to be, and what they of our students. Being the principal is a month or next. want to do.

Piperato wonderful job because we have so many For example, a few weeks ago little says he peroutstanding students here at Emmaus.” yellow sheets floated around the halls of sonally conAccording to the PSAT Score Report Emmaus as students participated in course from the Princeton Review, the qualifying gratulates the registration day (a day that has always minimun scores range from about 210- finalists from brought me anxiety and chewed finger Emmaus.

215.

The 2014 Natioinal Merit Scholars representing the East Penn School nails) As I listened to students question “I meet with Along with having high academic abiliDistrict along side superintendent Thomas Seidenberger teachers about what classes they should ties and SAT scores, the students must be the semifinaltake for their next year, one answer kept recommended by a high school official. ists and call frequently reaching my ears: “Well it depends, is that what you want to go into?”

Occasionally there’s the student that knows exactly what they want to do, most likely a future doctor or engineer, and they begin to scribble down as many understanding of the types of schools that According to Seislove, the college fair AP classes as they can fit into a 9 period News Contributor would be a good fit for them by speaking should attract all grades, not just upperschedule. However, many of my classdirectly with admissions representatives,” classmen. mates simply shrugged at their teacher and Jordan Robertson said Carolla.

“I think a lot of students will attend nervously laughed.

On April 30, over 120 colleges from “This is a great opportunity for underbecause seniors should really start applyAs I watched these student-teacher across the nation wil be visiting Emmaus’ ing to them and juniors, sophomores and encounters, something dawned on me. college fair in the main and auxiliary gym. classmen as well as upperclassmen because it is never too early to start planning freshman need to get an idea of where Isn’t high school supposed to be about The college fair is open to students and for life after high school,” said Carolla. they want to go,” said Seislove. trying new things? Finding yourself? their parents.

Carolla believes that this event is Sophomore Audrey Fissel might be How can we focus on “trying new According to guidence counselor Jenextremely important for students and their attending the college fair along with her things” when we’re pressured to choose nifer Carolla, the turn out last year’s turn parents. parents. the right classes for our majors and build out forced the guidence office to expand “This is important because we are “I don’t know what occupation I want an “impressive” resume? Guidance the fair. bringing over 120 schools to Emmaus to do but maybe the college fair will give counselors constantly encourage students “Last year we had over 1,000 families High School to assist our students and me an idea,” Fissel said. “Being able to to take advantage of the “Career Cruispresent. We hope to meet or exceed that families with postsecondary planning,” see what colleges have majors in certain ing” website, which contains various tests number this year,” said counselor Jennifer said Carolla. occupations will help.” and assessments that are supposed to steer Carolla. “Last year the crowd was so large According to Carolla, Emmaus is the Counselor Heather Greene thinks the students in the direction they want to go. that we decided to expand the fair to both only school in the area that provides this college fair is a great event.

The truth is, no amount of personality gyms this year.”

“It is a great opportunity for students quizzes can determine my future (to the Carolla hopes the fair is a huge success, unique experience for their students.

“Currently, there are no other schools and their parents to get a lot of informadisappointment of the counseling office) more so than last year. in the Lehigh Valley that offer an evening tion from a lot of different schools in a An assessment once recommended a ca“The college fair is an opportunity for short amount of time,” reer as a kung fu instructor, accurate right? high school students and their I suppose by this point my last-minute parents to connect with admis- “Currently, there are no other schools in the said Greene.

“Students and parents column has turned into somewhat of a sions representatives from two are to get information “I’m feeling sorry for myself” rant, as I and four year colleges,” said Lehigh Valley that offer an evening event of this andable ask questions to the condemn society for stealing my childCarolla. representatives if neceshood. The root of it at is fear I suppose.

“Representatives from these type.” sary.”

Fear of not knowing what lies on the road schools will set up tables in Greene hopes that the ahead. Fear of making mistakes. Fear of the gym,” she said. “Parents -Guidance counselor Jennfier Corolla students think of it as a not finding whatever it is I’m looking for. can pick up brochures and ask learning opportunity.

But in the end, it is MY future. questions about the school.” event of this type, which is why it is so “We are hoping to provide students the It’s my decision, and I have complete Schools including Kutztown University, important to be able to continue to bring opportunity to get a real jump on researchcontrol. No amount of little yellow regMuhlenberg University, Cedar Crest Colthis to our community,” said Carolla. ing options for after EHS,” said Greene. istration sheets or career cruising assess- lege, and Lehigh University will all have Junior Trisha Seislove cannot wait for “It is also a great way to visit schools that ments will define me. Next time I’m representatives attending. the college fair to arrive. might be too far to visit otherwise.” faced with a question regarding my future “The colleges have to complete a “By talking to people from colleges, The fair is also an opportunity to showplans, I can confidently say “I’m not sure registration form and pay a fee. We send maybe I can get an idea on what I want to case the outstanding students that attend yet, and that’s okay.” It’s okay that I’m out invitations to the representatives. The do and where I want to go,” said Seislove. Emmaus. unsure. It’s okay that I still struggle decid- event and contact info is also posted on Seislove plans to go into the field of “The college fair is a terrific opportuing what cereal to have for breakfast, and the PACAC website for colleges to view,” physical therapy. nity to show colleges from all over the that I still hug my ratty, worn out stuffed said Carolla.

“I am pretty sure I want to go into a country what amazing students we have,” animal. I am only a kid. I’ve got my Carolla hopes that students attending physical therapy occupation and the colshe said. whole future ahead of me. the college fair can get an idea of where lege fair will help me find the colleges they would like to go. right for me.”

“We are hoping students gain a better

Emmaus to host college fair

5

THE STINGER lApril 2014

Emmaus’ engineering team takes Bucknell Ashley Rivera News Contributor

they knew they needed to get studying as soon as possible in order to be as prepared as possible.

“There is talent coming from Imagine, thinking of different, ineverywhere so I didn’t know what to novative ways to advance society using expect,” said Hoffert. engineering-in only 90 minutes.

Using links on the Technology Well this is a reality for 16 students Student Association website, a Coach from the Math League Club at Emmaus Guide, competition scenarios and High School. On Feb. 24, two teams of more, they educated themselves on eight students competed in the Engineereach topic that would be questioned. ing Competition at Bucknell. They discovThese dedicated students spent three to ered the opportunity to compete from their four weeks researching on top of their Math Leagues coach Margaret Hoffert, a endless piles of school work. math teacher at Emmaus. Students needed Hoffert said, “ This is our third to receive a recommendation letter from a year competing and had three to four teacher and needed an interest in pursuweeks to study for the essays, so I was ing engineering as a career in order to be confident in the students on that part considered for a spot. but you never know for the multiple The TEAMS program (Test of Enchoice.” gineering Aptitude, Mathmatics and But her chosen competitiors weren’t Science) is an annual STEM (science, as confident as she was. technology, engineering and mathematics) Emmaus high school’s engineering team represents the Emmaus at Bucknell University Katie Xue, a sophomore on the team competition challenging students to work Photo courtesy of Michael Lessel said, “I wasn’t very confident because together and apply their math and science last year our team did so poorly.” skills to the real world. ficulty of the questions a six or seven. because most of them already know what Xue has been in the math club since TEAMS is a program of the TSA, a “You can bring information with you they want to be when they grow up. sixth grade and has been in math leagues national organization devoted to the needs but their were some problems that we “The speech didn’t do anything for me, since her freshman year. of students interested in STEM academic didn’t expect,” said Xue. I already know I don’t want to be an engiThe day of the competition the students areas. TSA offers over 60 STEM compeThey then got a lunch break, and neer, I want to be an orthopedic surgeon,” skipped out on a day of their classes and titions for continued with the essay portion of the said Xue. traveled middle and competition.

This competition isn’t quite over yet. to Buck“Their is talent coming from everywhere high school The topics for the essays varied.

Even though the two teams placed, they nell. students “My topic was urban transportation.

I must wait until state results are posted so I didn’t know what to expect” “It across the proposed different methods for containing this month.

Depending on where the was fun nation.

-Margaret Hoffert hydrogen gas, an alternative for gasoline,” teams place in states determines whether I got a These one said Zhuohong He, a sophomore. or not they continue on in the competition. day off day competiHe is a member a the Math League “I doubt we made it to the next level school tions took place at over 100 locations naclub, and has participated in three compe(referring to the sophomore team),” said and their was a lot of food,” said Xue. tionwide between Feb. 10 and March 22. titions.

Xue, “because we only got third place Once there students must register and Each year the competion has a different For the essays each team member but there is a good chance the senior team those eight chosen students are designated theme, and academic and innovative conanswers a question.

The other members did.” to sit around a table and wait for their cepts are developed for the competition proofread each other’s essays.

Now all the must do is wait and see if multiple choice questions. When the test based on National Academy of EngineerAfter all of the testing is completed the they move on. are handed out the students work diligenting’s Grand Challenges. This year’s theme students are taken to an auditorium for an ly and divide the 80 questions amoungst was, “Engineering Tomorrow’s Cities admissions speech on their potential futhemselves. The questions ranged all difImproving Urban Infrastructure.” This betures in the engineering field. The speech ferent skill levels of math. ing the third year Emmaus has competed, is a slight waste of time for these students, On a scale of 1-10, Xue rated the dif-

Students participate in National History Day Tori Delhagen News Contributor

Who would have thought that such a popular film studio, Warner Brothers is responsible for a history of designing racist cartoons stereotyping African Americans?

Freshman Declan Shoen captured first place at the History Day Regionals Competition where he produced a website on racism in cartoons and was chosen to move to state level.

Freshman Jason Bowen sports an interesting tie down town in Jim Thorpe before the awards ceremony.

Schoen said he decided on this topic Regional’s then qualified for states. because many people believe cartoons Andrew Gigler, Jeremy Chien, and are wholesome, so he found it surprising Kyle Kleinberg made it through to the that they can be racist. Shoen along with states competition with their website on 20 other Emmaus High School students the death penalty. The students had previrecently competed in the History Day ously competed in History Day in middle Regional school, so they had experience. The trio Competition where they created unique worked on their website most weekends, projects on an event in history. Nine stumeeting numerous times. dents will move on to the state level.

Chien enjoyed being involved in the The process began in September when competition. students were introduced to this year’s “Meeting new people through History theme: rights and responsibilities. ParDay is great and winning is fun,” said ticipants are given the freedom to choose Chien. their own topic and what category their Gigler is proud that his group made it to project will fall “I am so happy that they appreciate history in. Students can opt to make and really love their topic” a documentary, website, -History teacher Melissa Montero exhibit, paper, or create a skit based off of their personal talents. state level.

The procedure is lengthy and spans out “We weren’t extremely positive at Reover a course of four months. Students gionals and were nervous,” said Gigler. have to follow specific guidelines and “This year we were in the Senior divimust fulfill checkpoints including the sion and judges have more expectations.” commitment of a topic and title, bibliograCathryn Seibert’s hard work paid off phy check, completed thesis, rough draft, when she and her partner, Jason Bowen, and a final. placed first at the school level competiTo be successful, visible effort has to tion. Seibert and Bowen created a website be put forth and the top two students or on World War II propaganda and the groups from each category qualified to rights of citizens and responsibilities of move on to the Regional Competition at the press.

Jim Thorpe High School in March.

Seibert and Bowen spent countless At the competition, participants comhours working on their project. peted against numerous Lehigh schools “We were going to ooVoo for an hour and other NorthHampton counties, and but we ended up staying on for four shared their project in front of the judges. hours,” said Seibert. “The night before it Students who succeed have a strong paswas due we stayed up until midnight.” sion for history and a dedication to their Montero enjoys including History Day project. in her 9th grade honors curriculum.

According to Luckenbill, this year fea“I like the fact that the students gain tured many solid projects and the group appreciation for History Day,” said websites were the strongest they have ever Montero.“Students can do their own been. The top three students/groups from research and it gives flexibility with their

interests.”

Luckenbill believes that the process of History Day benefits students for later in life.

“I like that it helps kids learn how to research, and put together a big project that will help them in the future,” said Luckenbill.

History Day at Emmaus is only part of the freshmen curriculum, so most of the students are very young. Other schools that participate at Regionals send students from all grade levels which can be intimidating for the freshmen.

Luckenbill feels his students should be proud of their work.

“It is neat because we have mostly freshman competing against all high school kids,” said Luckenbill. “It is neat to see how we are doing with younger kids.”

Audrey Bolesta and Madison Nader built a tri-fold board on working women during World War II on the home front that moved them to states.

Bolesta took a lot out of the History Day experience.

“It taught me not to procrastinate,” said Bolesta. “Building the board was very fun.”

Bolesta voiced that the most rewarding part about doing History Day was getting to show off what she learned. She worked on her project over Christmas break, and her hard effort paid off.

Montero finds the procedure rewarding when her students succeed.

“It feels wonderful, and I am so proud,” said Montero. “I’m so happy that they appreciate history and really love their topic.”

Luckenbill is appreciative of the students who made it to regionals.

“I am very proud. The students put in a lot of work,” said Luckenbill. “We get to take kids to a competition that represents our school and they get recognized.”

6

THE STINGER

April, 2014

NEWS

Emmaus students bring home National Scholastic Art Awards

the students entered eight out of the possible 28 categories.

“In history we never had four pieces This year broke records as Emmaus stu- move on in these awards,” Maley said. dents brought home three National Silver “We also have never had a student win and one National Gold award from the gold.”

2014 Scholastics Art and Writing Awards.

The Scholastic Art and Writing Awards For many years now, Emmaus High have grown to become the longestSchool has participated in these awards. running recognition program for creative Throughout the years, the art students teens in the United States. The awards are have never been this successful and have the largest source of scholarships for crenever brought home this many high title ative students in art and writing. Teens in awards. grades seven through 12 can apply in any According to art teacher Tracey Maley, of the categories for the chance to earn a scholarship. Students submitted nearly nine million original art and writing pieces in the past five years.

At EHS each art teacher chooses artwork from the students to be submitted into the Scholastic Awards. Teachers choose between 10 to 20 pieces from all of their classes. After the artwork is judged the pieces that won gold move onto the Left: Mara Ruzicka Butz Na- National Awards. tional Silver “We are extremely proud of Right: Heather Koehler Na- the students and their success tional Gold this year,” said Maley.

Alex Kugler News Contributor

Mud Club fights hunger with art

Makenna Shafer News Contributor

Emmaus Mud Club members recently participated in the Empty Bowls event, using their artistic skills to assist in the fight against hunger.

Empty Bowls is an international event that was created by The Imagine Render Group to fight hunger and raise money for charities in the community. People come together and handcraft clay bowls to sell, collect money and feed the less fortunate in the area. All the proceeds go to a food program.

Events are spreading over the United States in at least a dozen different countries. Millions of dollars have been raised and donated to hunger-fighting organizations.

Emmaus is funding the Food Program of Angel Network in the East Penn School District. The pieces are selected from a variety of different stoneware bowls made especially for the event. Local businesses and individuals such as Subway, Italiano Delite, Weiss, Giant, and Wegmans donate the soup.

EHS art teacher Lisa Caruso opens up the Empty Bowls event to her Mud Club members. Caruso has done the event in

Senior Heather Koehler received the National Gold award for her piece.

The ink portrait of a wild cat Koehler submitted took three weeks to create. She put a lot of time and hard work into her Above: Nick Capri National artwork.

Silver “I was really Right: Mara Ruzicka- Butz surprised because I National Silver rounded by art for her entire life being wasn’t expecting it amazed by her father’s artistic ability. at all,” said Koehler For four students to make it into the top Art allows Koehler to express herself, in different categories is something some while at the same time have fun with students could never imagine possible. working on her creations.

“My experience at these awards were Seniors Shannon McGowan, Nick Caexciting and overwhelming.” said Ruzicka pri, and Mara Ruzlcka-Butz received the - Butz “I’m very proud of my piece, it’s National Silver Award. still my favorite, but I never expected to For many artists, the love for art begins win, so I’m still in shock.” at a young age. McGowan has been interBoth McGowan and Ruzicka-Butz ested in art since she was a little girl.

“Ever since I could hold a pencil I knew regarded winning these awards as a major accomplishment and were satisfied with I wanted to be an artist when I grew up.” their ranking. said McGowan.

McGowan’s artistic father contributed to her skill on the canvas. McGowan has been sur-

previous years, but last year she did not participate.

Mud Club made about 200 bowls for the event. The donation for a handcrafted bowl is $20, which is given to the donors to commenorate their contribution to the community. The soup and bread are complimentary.

Caruso got into art when she was young.

She started using clay in college, which inspired her to be an art teacher. She teaches art history, humanities and ceramics and has been teaching at Emmaus for 15 years.

Nick Capri, president of Mud Club, did the Empty Bowls event two years ago at Eyer Middle School.

Capri became president of Mud Club by frequently attending the club meetings and taking ceramics classes.

“I had knowledge of what to do already,” said Capri. “My fellow club members saw this and voted for me in both my junior and senior year.”

Capri would like to continue doing ceramics when he graduates.

“I already own a kiln and I am looking for a wheel,” said Capri. “I hope it will be a life-long hobby.”

Students in Mud Club don’t have to be in an art class to participate. Mud Club gives the students purpose and the chance

to express themselves in a different way.

Caruso makes most of the bowls for the event. Some of the students in Mud Club help make and decorate them.

Empty Bowls proved to be an important event for the school and the community.

The event provides food for the less fortunate in the community, while also benefitting the school.

“The kids and I decide which bowls go into the event,” said Caruso. “I make most of the bowls, and then the kids glaze and decorate them.”

It takes about a pound and a half of clay to make one soup bowl.

“The bowls are definitely a lot more beautiful this year than the year before,” said Caruso. “The kids who made the bowls [last year] weren’t good enough to sell at the event. Not saying that they were bad or anything, but they weren’t presentable to be sold.”

“It’s already coming together great,” said Capri before the event. “The bowls we have this year are nicer than ever and tons of people are donating soups. The only thing we need is a good turnout of people.”

Caruso is happy to report that they broke their record from the last Empty Bowls event. The Angel Network gathered about 11 different soups and breads enough to

feed the masses.

“Mud Club supplied some of our most beautiful bowls yet,” said Caruso. “We have fans in the community who come out every time to our event and have amassed collection of empty bowls.”

There is a display of soup bowls on the Mud Club cart in Room 520 for the next couple of weeks if anyone missed the chance to buy one at the event.

organizations of EHS worked together to ensure the success of the protest.

GSA advisor Kristen Grim firmly supports the school’s participation in the event.

“Working with the GSA club, we see a need for students who identify as LGBT to have a voice in things,” Grim said.

While the students play the biggest part in making Day of Silence a success, faculty members play a huge role in the event as well.

“It’s changed since I was in high school, it’s gone from something you don’t talk about to something the principal’s involved in,” said Grim. “A lot of the teach-

dents of all identities. I’m hoping it will lessen the stigma and targeting of students that are LGBT,” said Larkin.

A few changes were implemented this time around for NDOS in conjunction with the growing number of participants.

NPFH suggested the use of duct tape on the cheeks or chest, rather than over the mouth. Students were also able to sign up and pledge their silence via a signup sheet provided by the club.

Student members of the No Place for Hate association from all grade levels were more than willing to voice their opinions and show their support for LGBT rights.

ers were glad to have an outlet to show their support.”

Members of Emmaus’s No Place for Hate, lead by Stephanie Larkin, were also glad to rally against bullying and help out with the event.

“It’s a very positive statement that the school is making, it shows we support stu-

Senior Amanda Schultz has been participating in the protest since her sophomore year.

“I think bullying based on sexuality has become more prevalent than bullying based on race or other things,” Schultz said. “It brings more awareness to the issue.”

Schultz’s fellow senior NPFH volunteer Shanna Yarush is an avid participant and supporter of the event as well.

“Even if Day of Silence doesn’t affect you personally, it could affect one of your friends, so be respectful,” said Yarush.

Due to questions from both faculty and students about the disruption of the school day caused by the event, participants are urged to give their teachers advanced notice before the event.

Even those who aren’t actively involved in Day of Silence have begun to show more acceptance of it, with the number of participants growing significantly each year.

Sophomore Cassidy McGee promotes the idea of understanding of the protest within the Emmaus community.

“Even if you don’t participate and be silent, try to learn more about it and try to figure out why we do it,” McGee said.

As pro gay-marriage legislation in the U.S. becomes more common with every passing day, it is no question that National Day of Silence isn’t going anywhere.

Silence speaks louder than words

Eamon Dreisbach News Contributor

On the 11th of April, the usual buzz of Emmaus High School’s hallways fell quiet as students participated in one of the nation’s most widespread bullying protests: National Day of Silence.

Since its inception at the University of Virginia in 1996, National Day of Silence has grown from an isolated event to a nationwide demonstration in the ongoing battle for LGBT rights. In 2008, over 8,000 colleges, high schools and middle schools across the country took part in the event.

Participants in NDOS take an oath not to speak for the entire day of April 11th each year to call attention to members of the LGBT (Lesbian Gay Bisexual Transgender) community who feel unable to expose their sexual identity due to bullying.

EHS student’s participation in NDOS has grown significantly since its early days, with more and more students dawning duct tape and No Place for Hate shirts to show their support each year.

This time around, both the Gay Straight Alliance and No Place for Hate student

“It shows we support students of all identities.”

-No Place for Hate advisor Stephanie Larkin

Bowls from this year’s mud club. Photo courtesy of Kevin Rodgers

OPINION Opinion

THE STINGER

7

April

YO U R T H O U G H T S , O U R S . . . I N O N E B I T E - S I Z E PA C K A G E M A N AG I N G E D I T O R S AVA N N A H P U K A N E C Z S E C T I O N E D I T O R D AV I D H E I N E Y

Fitness Team fiasco

So Savvy

By Savannah Pukanecz

You Do You I find that so much of our adolescent lives are spent attempting to discover ourselves and trying to grasp on to the thread that will lead us to the person that we’re supposed to become. Throughout our lives we find bits and pieces of ourselves, and over the years we are able to put them together. This year, I feel like I have put a lot of myself together. I have discovered (much to my dismay) my unexplainable love for Meg Ryan and Tom Hanks and also (much to my parents’ dismay) that my cynical side lurks closer to the surface of my personality than I had thought.

Most of all, I was finally able to understand that the most important thing is to just be myself.

High school was tough, and now that I’m almost out, I find myself looking back and contemplating what I could have done differently. I find that I don’t have any regrets because I’ve learned something from every situation, but if I could give a few words of advice, they would be to just simply “do you.”

Be yourself and you’ll never be in want of anything.

Anything that you do, do it because it’s what makes you happy, not because it’s something that will make you look cool and certainly not because it’s something that would make your parents happy. In 20 years I know I’m not going to look back and say to myself “Wow, I’m so glad that I took the right classes, I hung out with the right people, and I wore the clothing that my friends picked out.” In 20 years I’m going to look back and ask myself, “Was I happy?”

After three years of agonizing over what classes to take to bolster my college applications, forcing myself to attend organized sporting events, and attempting to keep up with whatever Seventeen magazine demanded I wear, I became exhausted. As a result of the exhaustion of trying to figure out who I wanted to be and who everyone else wanted me to be, I gave up on what everyone else wanted.

I realized that high school is so irrelevant to anything that I will ever do later in life. No test, no classroom, no teacher can measure one’s potential, my potential. I think that I have just become frustrated with the way that I am being educated. Sure, requiring a certain amount of classes can be helpful to a student who doesn’t know what they want to do in life, but for someone (like me) who has known what college they want to attend and what they want to major in for two years (no thanks to Naviance or Career Cruising) extraneous classes seem ludicrous.

I’m tired of being forced into a Jellomold when maybe, just maybe, I want to be pudding, and I’m tired of being told what to do and who to be. I am me, and I don’t want to be anyone else because if I was anyone else, I wouldn’t be happy. This year I have learned that I’m not the giggly, naïve girl that I had once known and loved. I snort when I laugh, and I have a tainted view of the world. I love Nickelback, and I’d rather wear a flannel shirt than a dress. I’m not a joker or a smoker, but I’m a dreamer and a fighter. I’m Savannah Pukanecz and I am an original, but most importantly I’m happy because I am myself.

Kevin Rodgers Online Editor

In an establishment such as Emmaus, which makes up such a significant part of our lives, a sense of mutual respect and security between students, faculty, and law enforcement are integral to the success and well-being of everyone.

When that sense of security is violated, the school becomes a place filled with fear and animosity, rather than a place of comfort and trust. On April 2, that comfort and trust was violated for athletes on the Fitness Team.

While the team stepped outside to practice, someone stole an arm’s full of cell phones as well as other items left inside the school.

According to a copy of the police report, “over $200” worth of property was taken from the sports center.

The Emmaus Police Department didn’t seem genuinely sympathetic for the victims of this crime.

They assured everyone that whatever measures could

be taken to find the culprit would be taken. We believed them. But after a week of silence from the police, a visit to the station to ask about the case revealed its status had become “inactive, pending new information.”

To the victims, myself included, more active efforts to investigate the whereabouts of the stolen phones are needed. As if the emotional and monetary violation of the crime itself wasn’t enough, the people paid to give a sense of security and provide lawful retribution seemed almost disinterested in this multi-

victim crime.

The feeling of hopelessness was temporarily subdued by the prospect of EHS administrators finding conclusive evidence.

While school officials took the necessary steps to help aid in the police investigation, I have not heard that their work proved to be successful, and as a victim, I have yet to be updated on

the loss of my belongings.

We began to speculate who may have been responsible.

For some, the feelings of discouragement were consequently replaced by feelings of resentment when I and another crime victim were instructed by a staff member to stop pointing fingers.

The fact that an administrator told me to stay quiet about the theft of my property made me believe that the school had not only given up on finding the phones, but they were also attempting to sweep this situation under the rug and hope that time would cause the entire situation to be forgotten.

As time passes and people care less and less about this violation of privacy and constitutional right to free speech, let us remember that someone had a 15-minute window to commit this crime in a school full of security cameras. The criminal has successfully gotten away with not only a paycheck of “over $200,” but also the pictures, text messages, bank informa-

tion, contacts, and sense of security of nine people.

When I recently accessed my iCloud, I found that an additional account was registered tracing to another country, presumably from my stolen phone.

The fact that this crime was committed is not as traumatizing in a monetary sense as it is in an emotional one. Emmaus is not notorious for crime. We’ve had a few bomb threats, a couple of fights, and even a risque website or two. But other than that, this high school has been relatively free of crime.

In the end, I don’t appreciate how I was treated nor how the situation was handled. I feel as though they do not want to acknowledge that there was an incident at all.

For many of us, Emmaus used to be a place of comfort and security. Now, those feelings have been replaced with resentment and disillusion. Due to this violation of trust, the whole situation has given me a disheartened view on a place where I once felt at home.

running it. Walking may be easier and take less energy,

The worst part about this whole cheating thing is the fact that it’s becoming easier.

SparkNotes has recently added an “Audio SparkNote” section to each summary, meaning kids don’t even have to read the summary.

Not only are students cheating, but they are cheating effortlessly. If that’s not the definition of lazy, I’m not sure what is.

Reading is a huge part of student life from our elementary school days all the way into college.

With more and more kids using summaries as substitutions for actual reading, our education is suffering.

How is our nation supposed to be literarily sound if our kids are too lazy to pick up a book? It simply doesn’t work out.

All columns and reviews express the opinions of the writer and do not necessarily represent those of The Stinger staff as a whole.

Spark-NOtes

Will Newbegin Opinion Columnist In September of 1999, four Harvard students released a website dubbed TheSpark.com. The website, now known as SparkNotes, was originally intended to be a source where college and high school students could find study guides.

Fifteen years later, that same target audience actively uses the site as an escape route out of assigned reading, and it’s worse than one might think.

Literacy in America is already on the decline. With websites like SparkNotes and similar websites (CliffsNotes, TheBestNotes), American teens are reading even less. According to DoSomething.org, a social activism site, one in four

American children will grow up without learning how to read. Moreover, only 20 percent of American eighth graders admitted to reading for recreation on a daily basis.

This is the bottom line: using sites like SparkNotes instead of actually just grabbing a book and reading is not only lazy, but cheating as well. There is truly no substitution to just sitting down and reading.

By cheating and using SparkNotes, one might get the overall sense of what happened in the book, but nothing else. By reading, one soaks in specific details, feels empathy with the book’s characters, and subconsciously picks up on the style used by the author who wrote said book.

I’ll compare using SparkNotes to walking a 5K. In the end, one reaches the same finish line, but it wouldn’t feel the same as

but was the same experience attained by doing so?

As a student, I will admit to using SparkNotes. In fact, I would call any high school student who said they haven’t used the site a liar.

It’s just that convenient.

However I will also admit that I always find myself going back and reading the assigned section, or else I’ll feel that I missed key details in the book.

8

THE STINGER

Upon entering the orange and green establishment of Griddle 145, I admit that I was pretty tentative; I’m not going to lie. Around this time last year I waltzed through the same doors for breakfast with my mom. Back then I was going through a stage in my life where the majority of my diet consisted of soy products, so of course I ordered the tofu scramble.

I left the restaurant unimpressed due to lack of flavor and lack of scramble in my “not eggs.”

Personally, I consider myself a bit of a food snob because I have been fortunate enough to grow up with a very privileged palate. I am always extremely critical of the food that I allow to grace the presence of my mouth; however, it is my strong personal belief that everyone deserves a second chance… including not-so-stellar eateries. And so I promised myself that I would return to this up-and-coming restaurant in Whitehall Township. I am so glad that I kept that promise because it turned out to be one of the best culinary experiences of my life.

I’m not quite sure how to categorize Griddle 145, so I’ll simply attempt to explain it. If a diner and a café had a baby, their love-child would be Griddle 145. The cuisine contains all of the comforts a diner can offer; yet, the flavors aren’t suppressed to cater to an old person’s sensitive palate of bland

Ratings: Food

OPINION

April 2014

meatloaf and mashed potatoes.

And every dish has a special flare that a traditional diner would not be able to offer.

The interior of the restaurant appears more like a café - there are couple of booths and some tables but the really unique thing was the breakfast bar, one that’s almost reminiscent of a tony metropolitan bar.

The Stinger staff was seated promptly and given menus as our server took our drink orders. The 12 of us sat silently for a couple of minutes and contempla-

ted all that Griddle Jay’s Cheat 145 has to offer.

With selections in the breakfast and lunch categories, the menu contains options ranging from red velvet pancakes to fish tacos to veggie burgers to a smoked salmon omelt (all of which, I was told,

were extremely delicious).

However, I’d like to talk about the “Crabbie Pattie” because it was something that I found extremely extraordinary. The oversized “pattie” itself would make Plankton green with envy, but the real clincher is that it is filled completely with crab. Not krab, but crab. Now having a background in “culinary enjoyment,” I have had crab patties in the past at numerous fine dining restaurants. I have never once seen the amount of crab in a $20 patty than I saw in the $9.95 patty at Griddle 145.

For myself, I ordered a Jay’s Cheat Day burger ($9.95). It’s a burger topped with

chipotle BBQ pulled pork, onion straws and coleslaw.

Day I’m not usually a BBQ kind of gal, but I always like to try new things, so I figured I’d give it a go. I was not disappointed. Before the burger was delivered to the table, the waiter came over and courteously placed an extra stack of napkins

n a scale of 1-4 Decor

Service

next to me. I thought he was just being dramatic.

When the burger actually appeared before me there was a moment of shock where I just stopped to admire the massive heap of burger before me. The pulled pork was steaming as the juice from the burger and the BBQ sauce dribbled down the sides of the bun.

I pulled an onion straw off the top and popped it in my mouth: crispy, salty and yummy. Finally after a long agonizing wait, I put on the top of the bun and took a bite. I had juice dripping down my chin and my arms while my taste buds were singing the Hallelujah chorus.

I had ordered my burger done “medium,” and based on my previous burger experiences, I didn’t expect much in terms of the soft, pink center I desired. Much to my surprise, the center of my burger had the perfect amount of pink.

Everyone who ordered breakfast selections was equally as pleased with their meals. I didn’t hear one complaint, and nobody seemed to be able to muster a single critique.

The only critique I have is that they should be open for dinner.

With food this delicious, they are doing their patrons a huge disservice by only staying open until 3 p.m.

Griddle 145 is a great place to find delicious food if your wallet is on a diet. They cater to all kinds of appetites including that of a vegetarian and vegans.

Griddle 145 1146 MacArthur Road Whitehall Open Tuesday through Sunday www.griddle145.com

Price

Experience

By Savannah Pukanecz

OPINION

THE STINGER

Heiney Hotspot Ode to Cannabis I bid you one last heartfelt salutation, dearest readers, for this groundbreaking, mind-blowing, jaw-dropping edition of the Heiney Hotspot shall be the last to ever satiate your literary taste buds. I apologize sincerely for dropping such an earth-shattering bombshell upon you, but I had no alternative. I’m ready to ditch this suburban institute of education, and I suppose that would result in the death of the Hotspot.

Too bad.

Fear not, for as this grave news begins to sink in and tears pool in the corners of your eyes, I implore you to chill out. I can assure you that an individual whose pencraft surpasses even my own has been fated to fill my position as a coveted columnist. To further mend your fragmentized heart, I promise you, my avid fanbase, to make this the most memorable Hotspot yet.

I would like to discuss something that I know the vast majority of students at Emmaus High School have some semblance of knowledge of. If you, the reader, have never utilized or even come into contact with this mysterious substance, I encourage you to read on.

Regardless of your bias towards my ambiguous subject of Hotspotting, you may learn something about a recently prevalent aspect of popular culture.

Knowledge always takes precedence over petty bigotry.

Let’s talk about da ganj. Grass. Bud. Herb. Dank. Mary Jane. Pot. Weed.

It’s high time that we as a society take a grand step back into the land of objectivity and reexamine the thing that has been vilified by civilization. The big

Dave Heiney Section Editor of Opinion

bad “C” word.

Cannabis.

With states like Colorado and Washington legalizing the recreational use of marijuana, we as a nation need to consider the reasoning behind these decisions. It’s not as if every single Colorado-dweller and Washingtonian suddenly became delirious stoners and overran the state government. The majority of the people in these regions saw past the veil of misinformation and found the prohibition of marijuana to be unjust. Being of sound mind, the citizens voted to break free of the national government’s cruel restraints and dissolve the pro-herbition upon their respective states.

What would drive the majority of these citizens to make such a foolish decision to make more readily available this devil-plant that every fifth grade teacher told us would lead to a life of despair and, most certainly, a horribly cancerous death. So, what could have possibly gotten into these people that has them racing towards their untimely demise?

The truth.

The truth is, dearest Hotspotters, that there has never been a single death attributed solely to the use of marijuana.

No overdoses. No cancer. No delusional rampages resulting in a homeless man’s face being eaten. Nothing. Never in the history of humankind has someone croaked because he smokes too much weed. It has never happened. In reality, to overdose on THC (the primary

It’s happening again. I told myself I wouldn’t let this old man’s backstory in the movie Up get to me like this. But Disney isn’t making it easy. For Christ’s sake, his wife just died. I feel my eyes beginning to water. You’re better than this. Just pretend that you’re a walking mustache who punches sharks for a living and goes lumberjacking on weekends. Who am I kidding, I still put ice cubes in my soup.

“Are you okay, Jake?” my sister asks.

“Of course,” I lie, “I just… yawned.”

There are those among us who would cut off all ties with anyone who tears up due to animated films. They would probably cut off said ties with a machete, because large blades are manly. You know exactly who I’m talking about.

That guy who would burn you at the

psychoactive chemical in I know what you’re thinking: cannabis), one would “What about those convincing Above need to smoke some the Influence advertisements with the 5,000 marijuana cigayoung girl deflated into a sofa, or the rettes. In fifteen minutes. talking dog hassling his teenage owner?

In fact, most all of the Pot turns everyone into useless blob-like information fed to the schlubs.” public regarding the hazWonderful point, Hotspotter, but just ards (or lack thereof) of because you’ve seen it on television using marijuana has been doesn’t make it true. There have been a lie. The government has plenty of brilliant individuals throughshrouded the true nature out history that have made incredible of this magic plant in impacts on society and also liked to order to better accommosmoke weed. Carl Sagan, a renowned date those who seek to profit off of its astrophysicist, helped developed the prohibition.

Voyager spacecraft and also believed “Oh, Dave,” you might say, “This in the legalization of marijuana. Steve sounds like the ranting of a disgruntled Jobs created Apple, revolutionizing the stoner. What exactly do you claim to be electronic world, and used marijuana. lies?”

The Beatles.

Aside from the promise of a perilous Those ads have no basis in fact and death, did you know that marijuana does only play off of the fear-filled assumpnot kill brain cells? That’s right. Despite tions of the masses. what everyone has told you, recent(ish) If anyone had any actual evidence studies have shown that certain chemianywhere of any horrible reefer-related cal compounds found in marijuana may deformities or diseases, those deformistimulate the growth of one’s brain cells. ties and/or diseases would be flashing in The only the face of all Americans every 15 minsource of utes as they try to watch ‘Modern Faminformation ily.’ All of the anti-tobacco commercials regarding are riddled with stomas and prosthetic marijuana’s legs, not teenagers melting into their supposed couches and conversational canines. slaughterThe fact that substances like tobacco ing of innocent brain cells comes from a and alcohol are legal for recreational study conducted in the mid 1900s. purposes while marijuana remains Researchers tested the effects of prohibited attests to the harshly flawed marijuana smoke applied at regular logic of this nation’s lawmakers. Tointervals on a daily basis on primate test bacco kills some 400,000 individuals subjects. After pumping the monkeys solely in the United States every year full of smoke through a face mask for an from a broad spectrum of medical comextended period of time and suffocating plications; while alcohol kills 75,000 them to death, the researchers observed Americans every year and contributes to the decay of simian brain cells. After other issues like domestic violence. smothering the innocent animals and So while one can destroy his respiraconsequently traumatizing their brains, tory system while intoxicatedly endanthe researchers published their experigering those around him, God forbid he ment and its results claiming that the get baked and eat a sleeve of Oreos.

THC had been responsible for the damage to the monkeys’ brains.

This shady operation and its sketchy Questions or concerns? finds have been the foundation of many Talk to someone else.

It’s not my problem, and I don’t really care. anti-pot crusaders’ foreboding scare tactics.

“Knowledge always takes precedence over petty bigotry.”

The Last Laugh Masculinity Matters Minimally, Man

9

April 2014

Jacob Puleo Opinion Columnist stake for inspecting your nails the wrong way. He would most likely burn you with the steaks, because barbecuing is also manly.

I must have done terrible things to adorable puppies in a previous life to deserve being born into a family obsessed with masculinity. Indeed, “that guy” fits the description of every male person sharing my DNA. Except for me. Karma is relentless.

Visiting family in the lovely state of New York provides the best… or worst... glimpse of the obsession. On Long Island, only the strong survive. It’s survival of the fittest, with the fittest being those with a body mass index of 75 percent muscle to 25 percent hair gel.

I recall a particularly ridiculous incident in which a six-packed stranger nearly started a fist fight with my Jesustattooed uncle over a parking issue. In my grandparents’ driveway. With women and children spectating helplessly. While

shouting obscenities. A real charmer.

Naturally, or perhaps foolishly, I believed that my grandfather would not approve of this rude dude. But you can’t have a reasonable conversation with unreasonable people.

“That guy sure was out of line, ” I said.

“Well, you see,” he responded, “we have real men here in New York.”

There you have it, ladies and gentlemen. Picking a fight for no discernibly sensible reason makes you a real man. “But that’s just a delusional senior citizen,” you may think to yourself. However, for similar examples look no further than Emmaus High School, where some would sooner rip that edgy nose ring of yours out than talk it out. And if you also think to yourself, “What’s wrong with using a little muscle to get what I need?” then I’m afraid you’re a part of the problem.

After all is said and done, what is the appeal of living a lifestyle of cologne and testosterone? Why must my handshake register on the Richter scale? Am I missing something here? Perhaps it’s all a cover, so no one ever suspects that you sing show tunes in the shower. Whatever

the case may be, this pointless quest for masculinity has become the number one problem in America, superseding even bears and pickle jars.

In old timey times (you know, when throwing chairs at your children was socially acceptable), the general consensus was that using a hammer was a more valuable skill than using your mind. For some reason, this mentality has not been completely wiped off the face of the earth yet. It’s saddening, to say the least, more so than the movie Up. But things certainly seem to be looking up. We live in a world where many people think it’s hip to be square, and that it’s okay for men to use shampoo that isn’t “men’s shampoo” scented.

So let’s just say you’re not exactly the incredible hulk riding a monster truck stopping periodically to kill a spider in someone’s shower on his way to pick up a monster truck-load of hot babes. My advice: don’t worry about it. Manliness may matter in Long Island, but it doesn’t matter in the long run. At least not to genuine people. But who am I to give advice? I still jump every time the toast pops out of the toaster. Every. Damn.

Time.

“Who am I kiddng, I still put ice cubes in my soup.”

10

THE STINGER l April 2014

F e a t u r e s

11

THE STINGER April 2014

MANAGING EDITOR JUSTINE COLEMAN SEC TION EDITOR CHRISTINE CARLSON

NOW FEATURING It would be a normal morning. Nothing special was happening that day. Just school or work or whatever.

Ugh. I’d roll out of bed, clamping my hand on my stomach. I knew the thoughts would start flooding my mind, which would lead to gagging, which would lead to- no.

I couldn’t think about it. Thinking about it caused it to happen. Predicted the future.

“Oh no, don’t think about it. You’re better than this, Justine.”

But by then, it was too late. I had thrown up.

As tears glided down my face, the shame would sink in. Sometimes, my makeup would be smearing. I had to change my outfit. I had to force myself to eat. And the minutes would be quickly disappearing before I had to get on the bus. Before I had to go in public and be a normal person again.

And I just felt so alone.

I’d try to hide it. If I started gagging in school, I’d freeze and try to calm myself down. Recite song lyrics in my head, breathe in, breathe out. Don’t think of what is bothering you, breathe in, breathe out. It’s all going to be okay, breathe in, breathe out.

When that didn’t work, I covered my mouth with my hand, so if anyone heard gagging, there was less of a chance they would know it’s coming from me. As the famous Frozen song goes, “Don’t let them in. Don’t let them see.” And I used up all of my energy to conceal and not feel instead of attempting to get better.

But I couldn’t hide it from my closest friends. They knew when I stopped talking and didn’t look at them, I was going into a panic attack.

Eating was probably the hardest part of my day. Everyone noticed that I ate really slow; I was scared to eat quickly. It took me forever to convince myself that I had to eat, and no, I wouldn’t see the food again.

I didn’t trust myself, though. Sure, I said it would all be okay, but no one is always okay. My negative thoughts fueled my anxiety, causing the motor to run and never stop.

I was so scared. Scared of rejection.

Scared everyone would think I’m so gross for getting sick. Scared everyone would leave me. Fear was my true enemy.

Then, one day, I woke up and threw up.

I was crying while grasping the toilet seat when I realized I shouldn’t have to experience this. I told myself that I wouldn’t throw up again. And I didn’t. Not for months.

Before that day, I saw a psychiatrist and a psychologist and received medication.

Then, I found out the doctor’s diagnosis.

The list seemed never-ending. General anxiety disorder, social anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, and a little obsessive compulsive disorder. My eyes widened as the list continued.

But I’m no different than anyone else.

Nobody’s perfectly healthy. And even I was not an exception to that.

I started talking to my friends and family when I was upset instead of fuming inside.

Because when it didn’t come out through words, it came out in, well, other ways. And for me, I would unfortunately see my food again.

I’m not saying “feel bad for me.” No, don’t. It’s made me work harder and reach higher to prove it can be stopped; it cannot control me. Anytime I am afraid of doing something now, I think, “Is this necessary?

Are you really going to let a little doubt stop you?”

It’s possible to overcome your fears.

Don’t get me wrong; it will be difficult, but it will be the greatest challenge of your life.

And when you conquer your fears, you feel unstoppable.

A few months ago I didn’t think anything would ever be okay. And now just a few months later, I am truly unstoppable.

James Luma: A Surgery Success

Freshman undergoes two surgeries for brain disease Story and Photos by Maura Benner

James, pictured before his surgrey with his dog Bailey. His surgery took place at Stanford University in Calfornia. Upon returning, James joked about making return trips to the state. The teen was able to visit San Fransico and Pebble Beach while in California.

James, with his sisters Taryn, 16, (left), and Lydia, 12. “It’s emotional,” his mom, Karen Wallace-Luma, said, “but we’re the kind of family [who can] deal with things. We have a good sense of humor about stuff, and we just take it as it comes.”

With a full head of hair and a bright smile on his face, it’s hard to tell that less than a month prior, James Luma was undergoing brain surgery on the other side of the country.

But after two successful surgeries in Stanford, California, the freshman and his family feel positive for the future.

Late on Jan. 24, a seemingly normal Friday night, James suffered a sudden seizure around 10:30, and was quickly rushed to the ER by ambulance. Upon arriving at the hospital, he then suffered another seizure, and began to experience weakness on the right side of his body.

James’s mother Karen WallaceLuma, a speech-pathologist, recalled the frightening night.

“It was beyond scary and surreal, not knowing what was happening,” Wallace-Luma said.

After a CT scan, doctors discovered that the seizures were the result of a moderate brain bleed type stroke in the left side of his brain.

Days later, and with more tests, James was diagnosed with Moyamoya, a hereditary brain disease the constricts certain arteries in the brain, causing blood flow to be blocked. As other vessels form and try to compensate for the blockages, the weak vessels break, causing hemorrhages and aneurysms.

“We didn’t know he had it,” Wallace-Luma said. “My kids have

always been healthy.”

Though Moyamoya is not curable, it is treatable through surgery.

James underwent two brain bypass graftings, the first on March 20th on the left side of his brain, and on March 26th on the right.

“They take some of the good arteries, and they tie them to the bad ones so he can get increased oxygen flow and blood flow,” WallaceLuma explained.

Before his surgeries, James had to monitor what he ate, keeping away from foods and medications that could thin his blood, such as garlic and aspirin. He also needed ongoing supervision because of the looming threat of another stroke.

“I’ve been constantly on parole,” James joked.

In about a month or so, James can resume fairly normal activities, although he needs to remain in a calm environment and drink plenty of fluids to keep his blood flowing. The Lumas will also return to California in six months to check his progress.

“Well, now I have a superbrain,” James said.

A GiveForward account was created in the Luma’s family name to help with the travel costs, living expenses in California, and as a supplement for the family’s income while Wallace-Luma remains home with James.

To make donations to the family, visit www.giveforward.com and search James Luma.

Photo courtesy of moyamoya.com

Justine Coleman

More commonly found in the Japanese population, Moyamoya translates to ‘puff of smoke’, due to the shape of the blood leaking from the arteries of the brain.

Photo courtesy of Karen Wallace-Luma

This Just-In

“I truly believe he saved our son’s life,” Michael Luma, James’s father, said, reagarding James’s surgeon Dr. Gary Steinberg (pictured above.)

The Lumas (left to right): Michael, Lydia, James, Taryn, and Karen.

“We have great friends, family, and people I work with, and our neighborhood here, they have just given us so much support emotionally, financially, and prayers. We’re just overwhelmed with the support from all of them,” Wallace-Luma said.

12

In One Moment Eve

One day

Jones would later hear reactions from people who witnessed his accident.

“People have told me they thought I was going to die because of how scary the seizure was,” said Jones. “They never expected it to happen to me.”

When he regained consciousness, Jones was told he was asked basic questions.

Who is the president?

What is today’s date?

Where are you?

Jones does not remember any of them.

Still, others told him that he struggled with most of the questions.

However, he does recall receiving medical attention.

“The next thing I remember was getting strapped down on a stretcher and going into the ambulance and they gave me an IV,” said Jones.

His mother, who was called to come to the gym after he fell, joined him in the ambulance as paramedics quickly transported him to Lehigh Valley Hospital’s emergency room.

According to Dr. Elizabeth Goff of Trexlertown, it is vital for a person with a potential concussion to receive medical attention immediately after the injury.

In Jones’ case, Goff believes the situation was handled flawlessly.

“If someone has a seizure, they should be directly transported to the ER,” said Goff, “especially if there is bleeding or swelling.”

“It

Senior Taylor Jones suffered a concussion in the middle of a scrubs game.

Photo by: Maura Benner Edited by: Justine Coleman

For students at Emmaus High School, January 29th had ing an idea where I was or anything like that.”

Upon his arrival at LVH, Jones underwent mulall the makings of a memorable day.

“Then I went into a seizure,” he said, “and blacked out tiple tests, including an eye test, more rounds That night featured Mr. Emmaus, a celebration of senior again.” of basic questioning, and a CT scan. Hosboys from the class of 2014. A few hundred people filled As suspected by LeMaster and most of the 30-plus pital physicians released him within the auditorium to watch roughly two dozen guys strut spectators at the game, Taylor did suffer a concussion. seven hours. across the stage in swimsuits and formalwear, showcase Jones’ injury is among an estimated 300,000 sports“I wouldn’t say I was in their talents, and woo the crowd. related traumatic brain injuries which are predominantly pain upon leaving the Across the building, a few dozen students sat in the concussions that occur each year in the United States, hospital, it was more bleachers of the auxiliary gym, watching scrubs teams go according to the National Institute of Health. According to shock,” said toe-to-toe on the court. That night, Abusement Park and studies, sports are second to motor vehicle accidents as the Jones. “I Glory Boys faced off in a seemingly typical scrappy bout. leading cause of traumatic brain injury for people ages 15 didn’t feel “It was just another day,” said senior Taylor Jones. to 24 years. pain Little did Taylor know, it wasn’t.

“When I woke up, I was on the gym floor with the refs That Wednesday would change his life forever. and paramedics around me, and I had no idea what I was Early in evening, Jones volunteered backstage at Mr. doing or what happened,” said Jones. “I didn’t know where Emmaus before he headed down the hall to meet up with I was or why I was there.” his fellow Glory Boys.

Senior Jack Moore walked into the gym shortly “I remember going to Mr. Emmaus with SGA and helpafter Jones fell. ing out with that, then I had to leave early for my scrubs He immediately knew something was game,” said Jones. wrong the moment he entered.

The game started after 9 p.m., but it wouldn’t end.

“The gym was silent,” said In the typical tenacious manner of scrubs, the two teams Moore. “Taylor was laying dogged it out. As halftime approached, the Abusement Park there, the adults were led 19-18. Just a few minutes earlier, Jones subbed in. surrounding him, and “I started playing, and within the first five minutes, I everyone else went up to block a shot,” Jones recalls. “Then one of my just looked friends jumped underneath me and took my legs out, and I shocked.” flew back and smacked my head.”

“Then,” he said, “I blacked out.”

People in the audience and players on the court realized something was wrong.

“We knew right away Taylor probably got a Senior Beth Wiseley probably thought it was just anconcussion,” said senior Josh LeMaster, who was other basketball game in her junior year. However, during playing alongside Jones. that basketball game she suffered a concussion after another But the situation became even player jumped to block Wiseley’s shot and hit her in the head. scarier.

“Immediately after [I got hit] I felt very fragile. As I got up, I “I don’t remember what hapalmost felt like I was [going to] fall right back down because of how pened after that,” said little body control I had in balancing myself,” Wiseley said. “After a minJones. “I rememute or two I felt fine, so I went back in the game.” ber waking But Wiseley still felt the effects at school the next day. up, and “I was constantly taking notes from overhead boards thinking I was just tired not havand had to put my head down, but in reality I knew it had to be a concussion,” Wiseley said. “The words were spinning and I had a deep headache.”

Beth Wiseley received a concussion Wiseley only had one game left in the season with a rival team and was determined to her junior year while playing bask play that. She felt fine, but immediately after she just wanted to sleep.

Photo Courtesy of Beth Wisel After the five rest days, Wiseley began to work with school trainer Liz Del Re. Del Re worked her hard, but Wiseley wanted to work harder. Wiseley’s body, though, did not respond favorably to the increase in exercise and stimulation.

“I learned for once in my athletic career [that] I had to be patient,” Wiseley said. “I had to let my body heal before I could push myself any further.”

Beth Wiseley

Reporting by: John Lang, Sports Editor

Written by: Christine Carlson, Features Editor

13

erything Could Change...

y. One game. One fall.

By Steve Gudonis, Sports Editor

for a while.”

But upon returning home, the pain kicked in.

“I had a constant headache, and my eyes were extremely sensitive to light,” he said.

Jones followed his doctor’s orders and did everything he could do to recover. Still, he admits, that wasn’t the only factor that helped him get through this rough period.

After word spread of his injury, the Emmaus commu-

Jones. “They are not something to mess around with.”

When asked about what this experience taught him regarding concussions, Jones made this very clear.

“It could happen to anyone.”

could happen to anyone.” ~Taylor Jones~ nity came together to support Jones. On Twitter, dozens of EHS students posted #PrayForTaylor.

“It was weird at first seeing everyone tweeting about me,” said Jones. “But looking back, it gave me the motivation I needed to get better. It felt good.”

Senior Hanna Cappellini suffered a Jones credits the people closest to him played in playconcussion when her gym class was playing ing the biggest role towards his recovery. volleyball.

“My friends and family got me through this whole A couple of guys were messing around and thing,” said Jones. “My friends would come and Cappellini wasn’t paying attention. The ball shot down see me, and they helped me get better.” right on her head and immediately she felt dizzy. That, The brief jump on the court in the however, was not her first concussion. She has suffered two auxiliary gym taught him the dangers other concussions, one from snowboarding and the other from a of concussions. scrimmage in lacrosse.

“This experience defiCappellini believes she has gotten worse after each concussion. nitely changed my life, “I haven’t been the same since.” Cappellini said. “My memory is rejust because of how ally bad.” dangerous conCappellini also had certain restrictions on daily activities. cussions can “I wasn’t allowed to snowboard. I wasn’t allowed to drive for a long time,” be,” said Cappellini said. “I couldn’t do anything.”

Cappellini thinks that concussions shouldn’t be taken lightly. She knows that concussions affect grades, which affect college decisions. One concussion could trigger a whole chain reaction.

“It’s just frustrating because no one can see inside your head,” Cappellini said. “If you mess it up, it’s hard to fix. It takes a long time to heal.”

n during ketball. ley

Hanna Cappellini

Hanna Cappellini feels that concussions should be considered a serious injury.

Photo by Christine Carlson

Written by: Christine Carlson, Features Editor

Living with concussions EHS athletes reflect on life with brain trauma

Kyle Boney Six foot sophomore Kyle Boney was on defense during the last game in the 2012 football season. It was his freshman year and the last thing he probably expected was ending the season with a concussion.

“I made a pretty big hit. Next thing I remember I was just laying on the ground. I tried to get up,” Boney said. “I got up after the second try and was just seeing stars and was dizzy.”

However, Boney decided to stay in the game.

“I wanted to play for the last time with the seniors,” Boney said.

Boney believes that if he were put in the exact situation, he would do the same thing: stay on the field and keep playing.

“I’m going to play in the game no matter what,” Boney said.

Boney knows that concussions are just a part of the nature of the sport that he chooses to play. “[Concussions] can happen at any time, on any play. It depends on how hard you get hit,” Boney said. “It’s just football. It’s a contact sport; you take a beating.”

Written by: Christine Carlson, Features Editor Reporting by: Steve Gudonis, Sports Editor Kyle Boney feels that concussions will always occur in football.

Photo courtesy of Kyle Boney

THE STINGER

14

A p r i l 2 0 1 4

Features

When concussions hit, Emmaus doesn’t quit Written by Justine Coleman and Christine Carlson, Features Editors Reporting by John Lang, Sports Editor Athletes in many school districts suffer from concussions; however, some choose to suffer in silence because they do not want to appear weak by leaving the game.

Concussions can occur anytime, anywhere, even at Emmaus High School.

Emmaus strives to keep its students, parents, and coaches informed about the dangers of concussions through literature and guest speakers. School coaches must take courses on how to prevent concussions each year. Parents are offered free enrollment as well. To prevent concussions, coaches teach athletes how to stay safe while playing their sport. In addition, trainers are continuously educated about all health problems, especially concussions.

“The number one priority of the athletic department is to provide the safest environment for our student athletes,” Athletic Director Dennis Ramella said.

“That is paramount to everything we do.”

Ramella’s department uses education to share more knowledge and prevent misconceptions about concussions.

Junior Joe Flick believes that coaches informing the players has helped and taught them new techniques.

“The coaches definitely do a good job of teaching us how to hit without getting hurt and telling us how to prevent concussions,” said Flick who plays fullback on the football team.

However, concussions still remain common and are more frequent in some sports, such as football, than in others.

Nonetheless, Emmaus students from all sports including swimming, golf, and tennis have suffered concussions, according to Ramella.

“No one is really immune to concussions,” Ramella said.

Sophomore Kyle Boney, who received a concussion playing football his freshman year, agrees with Ramella that head injuries are never predictable.

“They can happen at any time, on any play,” Boney said. “It depends on how hard you get hit.”

Once the trainers suspect a head injury, they evaluate the student. If the concussion is confirmed, the trainers set up an appointment with a doctor and await further instructions, according to school trainer Liz Del Re. The school requires each Emmaus athlete to take the 20- to 40-minute ImPACT software test. If and when the trainers suspect that a student athlete may have had a head injury, the student must take the test within 24 to 72 hours

to determine the injury’s effect on his or After having a concussion from can have a headache just because it’s hot her memory and reactions and finally, football, Flick found out from his doctor out or cold out.” whether a concussion has occurred. about an additional safety measure that Head injuries leave a severe impact “We were the first high school in the could be added to helmets that he feels and have profound effects on an athlete’s Lehigh Valley to...test our life. athletes with ImPACT or offer Senior it to our athletes, and then we Hanna Capwere the first high school in pellini feels the Lehigh Valley to make that school it mandatory as part of our became sports physical,” Ramella more difsaid. “Everybody takes it, ficult after regardless of what sport you she suffered play.” a concusHowever, senior Beth sion from Wiseley feels the ImPACT playing voltest could be improved “by leyball in adding on a video segment gym class. that... would ensure the ath“I letes fully understand harmful missed effects of concussions.” so much The athletic trainers school,” follow both the OAA OrthoCappellini paedic Specialists concussion said. “All tool policy and East Penn of second School District protocols. marking When an Emmaus student period I had suffers a concussion, he or to make she must follow the protocol up.”

“No one is immune to concussions,” Athletic Director Dennis Ramella said. of the district before entering any Howcompetition.

Photo courtesy of Justine Coleman ever, all of At school, the nurse checks in Cappellini’s with the student; while at sporting events, Emmaus should implement. teachers have tried to help with her situthe athletic medical staff keeps track of “He told me that there is special padation by giving extra time with tests and the player’s health. A student does not ding you can put in your helmet,” Flick allowing her to have take-home assignbegin the protocol until the symptoms of said. “That won’t completely prevent ments. the head injury disappear. As part of the concussions, but it would help. The “My teachers have all made accomprotocol, the athlete must first spend 10 school doesn’t offer that for football or modations and have been really supportminutes biking. The next day, the biklacrosse players.” ive,” Cappellini said. ing lasts for 20 minutes. The following There are always improvements being Wiseley, who experienced a concusday comes the unpopular 20 minute run. made to football helmets such as hexsion while playing basketball, agrees that Depending on the circumstance, the stuagonal liners, according to CBS Sports. school ended up becoming challenging dent would participate in a non-contact However, Ramella wants players and “Focusing became an obstacle, practice on the fourth day. The next day parents to realize that having an upgraded reading became a struggle, and wantconsists of a normal practice. Sometimes helmet will not eliminate the risk of geting to give up and close your eyes was the symptoms may return on this day, but ting concussions. frequently an option,” Wiseley said. more frequently they return on the day of “No helmet, no matter how advanced, “However, [the guidance counselors] running. is going to prevent a concussion,” Rahad teachers print out their notes, so I Ramella believes Emmaus’ protocol mella said. wouldn’t have to copy them from the for concussions is “cutting edge.”

A major setback for reporting concus- electronic boards. Others allowed me “We have what I believe is the most sions consists of the lack of certainty of to leave class a few minutes [early] to advanced concussion protocol policy of a concussion’s symptoms. For example, dodge the crowded, noisy hallways.” any high school in the Lehigh Valley,” some people believe that a painful headWiseley recognizes that a head injury Ramella said. ache may automatically be a concussion. is serious and that it isn’t like a typical “Many of the procedures that we put In reality, headaches can result from injury. in our program years ago are now just be- exercise at any time.

“A concussion isn’t like a sprained ing put in by some schools,” he said.

Del Re knows that headaches can be ankle where you can rest, ice, and regain Yet some students believe that more caused by so many factors that it bestrength,” Wiseley said. “A concussion could be done to prevent concussions like comes difficult to pinpoint exactly what can be irreversible and your head is just Boney. is going on. not something you can afford to mess “There’s always room for improve“Game time is hard for players to with.” ment, but I have no idea how,” Boney gauge what they are feeling,” Del Re said. “We get new helmets every year.” said. “It’s one of those things where they

Facts courtesy of www.clearedtoplay.org, www.headcasecompany.com, www.momsteam.com

Fast Facts Concussion: A complex process that affects the brain,

typically induced by trauma. It can be caused either by a direct blow to the head, or an indirect blow to the body, causing neurological impairments.

Only 42% of high schools have access to athletic training services

1 in 5 high school athletes will sustain a sports concussion during the season 4 to 5 million concussions occur annually, with rising numbers among middle school athletes

50% of “second impact syndrome”* incidents result in death

*Second Impact Syndrome Incidents: Brain

injury caused from a premature return to activity after suffering initial injury (concussion).

High school athletes sustain an estimated 136,000 to 300,000 concussions per year

15.8% of football players who sustain a concussion severe enough to cause loss of consciousness return to play the same day

Culture

THE STINGER | April 2014

CULTURE

15

M A N A G I N G E D I T O R : E M M A WA N G SEC TION EDITOR: EAMON DREISBACH

Letter to the Class of 2017

Morgan Litzenberger: dancing like everyone’s watching

- One student’s dream to become a professional dancer By Katie Mest ers.

As a diverse dancer, she enjoys doing step, jazz, ballet, pointe, and belly dance.

Photo By Morgan Litzenberger

Sophomore Morgan Litzenberger spends a majority of her time in a studio doing what she loves most: dance.

After she decided that gymnastics wasn’t exactly the path she wanted to take, Litzenberger enrolled in dance classes at the age of three. At first, she signed up for dance classes at Sharon Plessl School of Dance, but three years ago she switched to Born Into the Arts Dance Company in Bethlehem to expand on her learning experiences.

“Ever since then, I dance through aisles of stores and never can sit still,” said Litzenberger, who continued dance for 12 years.

In the beginning of March, she competed in the Barabran Dance Competition. This competition allows local studios to come together and showcase the pieces that they have been working on.

There, she won the opportunity to take dance classes in New York City at Steps On Broadway. In these classes, she will gain more experience and knowledge.

This isn’t Litzenberger’s only accomplishment. In 2013 she received a High Score Award from That’s Entertainment Talent Expo in New Jersey for a hip hop solo entitled “Lose Yourself,” which was choreographed

by Dominick Boyd from Born Into the Arts. She was also a member of the Philadelphia 76ers Junior and Pre-Pro dance teams for four years.

In her freshman year at Emmaus High School, she performed with the dance team at basketball games, football games, and various other events.

Dance Team Coach Jill Becker has witnessed Litzenberger’s enthusiasm for dance.

“She is outgoing, passionate, and curious,” said Becker. “She was eager to learn new things and curious to see what else she could achieve.”

Litzenberger got the opportunity, along with a few selected others, to audition for America’s Got Talent.

The group performed a six minute hip hop piece in front of one of the show’s producers. She said that she was nervous, but it was a great opportunity to learn how the process goes.

Even through all of these achievements, Litzenberger remains humble.

“My most memorable moment was when I... made my family members cry after I stepped off the stage when I performed,” said Litzenberger.

She says that along with her best friend Andrew Pfeiffer, her parents and her grandmother Joann are definitely her biggest support-

She mainly dances hip hop and contemporary/ modern, however.

Competitions come with excitement and nerves.

“I’m never sure if the audience or judges will enjoy or understand the concept of the piece or not,” said Litzenberger. “If they didn’t understand the concept of the piece, then I didn’t do my part with my body as the storyteller. It’s very nerve-racking.”

Litzenberger shared her reasons as to why she loves to dance.

“I love that I get the chance to be able to express myself through

movement rather than words,” said Litzenberger. “I can let my body tell the words to a story rather than my voice.”

Challenges are everywhere. Litzenberger says that she gets through hard times by thinking of all the benefits that will come out of the situation, and how her family and friends will always be there supporting her.

Another struggle is the internal conflict within herself.

“I remember thinking to myself that I’m not good enough for this career,” said Litzenberger. “Then I remembered that it shouldn’t always matter what people believe you are, if you’re good

enough or flexible enough to succeed. If I am trying my hardest and I am enjoying what I’m doing, then I’m not going to tear myself apart about the little things.”

Her least favorite thing is since she spends a lot of time at the studio and at performances, her social life is not as flexible as she wishes. That doesn’t bother her too much, however, since she makes many new friends through dance.

Some of Litzenberger’s most admirable role models include Ian Eastwood, a member of the dance crew KubScoutz, and Melanie Moore from So You Think You Can Dance.

“I don’t want to be just like them, but I want to follow in their foot steps,” said Litzenberger. “I would like to be a unique, individual dancer, and hopefully have someone look up to me like I do to others.”

Since dance is a big part of her life, Litzenberger makes sure to make time for her studies. As soon as she gets home, she works on her homework. If she doesn’t get it done, she’ll take it along with her to dance and work on it in between classes.

Her dream is to go to the University of California and dance. Eventually, she hopes to open a dance studio of her own, so she can share her love of the arts to others.

Besides dancing, Litzenberger enjoys drawing and singing. She also goes roller skating regularly at Skateaway in Whitehall.

When she gets to spend time with friends, she likes to go to the movies or just hang out at a friend’s house.

“I cherish those times, because they don’t happen as often as I would like,” said Litzenberger.

By Emma Wang

Dear Class of 2017, Congratulations on finishing your freshman year of high school. You survived, and I hope you’ve changed for the better.

I know you all began this year with fears. You walked through those double doors with a million questions circulating in your head.

Who will I sit with at lunch? Who will I be friends with? How do I pass this Algebra class?

How am I going to get through the next four years?

Have you answered those questions yet? Cause I’m gonna need some help answering the same questions as a senior.

In August, I will begin a new journey in a new place, without any friends or family to comfort me, and with questions similar to the ones you had at the start of this year.

Who will I be friends with? How do I use my meal plan? What if I have to sit alone in the dining hall? Will I fit in? How do I pass these classes?

I’m going to be a freshman all over again. You know what it’s like, so you can sympathize with me.

I guess I can also sympathize with myself, since I’ve been through this before.

I switched from a private Christian school to public school in seventh grade. I remember my first day in perfect clarity. I walked into LMMS carrying my cello and a huge backpack. I knew one person and on the first day we weren’t even that close. Compared to my old school, LMMS was huge and confusing. I wandered the halls dodging students reuniting after the summer. Eventually I stumbled upon the choral teacher, who showed me where to put my cello and then wrote me a pass to homeroom. Late on the first day of school. After struggling to find my homeroom, I opened the door and met Mr. Smith, who became my favorite teacher and is the reason why I still love history today. He showed me to my seat, but I was still terrified at this point. I remember trying to be brave as I looked at the other students, who all looked perfectly comfortable in this strange room.

My point is that change is scary, but you don’t need to be afraid of it. Use the changes around you to change yourself for the better.

I’m heading to Raleigh in August, and I’m not sure what’s waiting for me down there. But I do know that some of my best friends are going to be there, too. Yes, we will start out as casual acquaintances who live across the hall from each other or see each other at the gym, but I have faith that I’ll meet the right people when it’s time.

I’ll befriend my professors and the other students in my tiny 16-student Apparel Design class.

I’ll challenge myself and gain confidence by joining the intramural soccer team and taking spinning classes at Carmichael Gym. I’ll go to football games and cheer for the Wolfpack that I will be a proud member of.

I’ll spraypaint my mark on NC State in the Free Expression Tunnel.

I’ll find a church and a group of other Christians who I can pray with and lean on when times get tough.

So while I’m in Raleigh, taking steps to grow as an individual, I hope that you are all pushing your limits and using the start of a new year to make yourself grow and change. Do something that scares you, such as trying out for Chorale or joining the cross-country team (I thoroughly recommend both of those since both have shaped my life).

Make wise choices, and remember that everything that you do has a consequence, whether good or bad.

And above all, don’t allow your fear of change hold you back from reaching your full potential as an individual.

---

Emma

16

THE STINGER April 2014

CULTURE

Selfie Nation Heres to the most famous selfies of 2013 and 2014:

y of

es ourt

C

lyw

Hol

.

m r.co

orte

rep ood

er

of Da

ilyma

il.com

.

ov ined a g . e itter Usi scar s on Tw O The etweet r r

n

illio

m two

Cour

tesy

Obam a Mend ’s selfie a t Nel ela’s so m a lot of cri emorial n gener ticism ate

.co

m.

d oo o esy urt Co Cou rtes y acha.c

om.

This gain out-of th ed a roun is-world d 3,0 s 00 r eflie etwe ets

of Y aho

o.co

m.

ack e b ert h t s in onc ear ung c p p a o ce is y yon of th e B nd lfie rou r ’s se goe

Cour

f ch tesy o

Selfies capture moments we will never forget, such as a new hair-do, cute outfit, or even scaling an incredibly tall building.

In 2013, Oxford Dictionary declared “selfie” the word of the year.

Selfies have become a part of everyday society accepted by both the younger and older generations.

According to Marlo Smurda, an Emmaus social studies teacher, the word ‘selfie” will be around longer than other slang words such as “yolo” and “twerk”.

“I think the addition of the word selfie reflects how our language is changing,” says Smurda. “I don’t have an opinion of the word itself, but I do believe that the word ‘selfie’ has more staying power than ‘yolo’.”

No matter how old you are, there is no age limit for taking a selfie.

People all over the world of all ages, ethnicities and backgrounds take thousands of selfies every day and post them to social media sites like Instagram, SnapChat, Twitter and Facebook.

More than 17 million selfies are uploaded each week, according o the Daily Mail.

At the Oscars this year, celebrities Jennifer Lawrence, Meryl Streep, Brad Pitt, Ellen Degeneres and others crowded around a camera phone crashing the Twitter site and achieving the highest number of retweets, at two million.

Though it is obvious that selfies seem to be omnipresent, the appropriateness of them is debatable.

“Whether they are stupid or not depends on the situation,” said junior Laura Kuhns. “If it is in a public setting and a person stops to take a selfie, that is when they get judged for it.”

President Barack Obama held the title for most retweets on a selfie picture when he was re-elected in 2012. Embracing with his wife, Michelle, with the simple caption “four more years,” gained him over 778,000 retweets.

Celebrities gain recognition for their selfies on a daily basis, so how can you become the center of attention?

If you are looking for your own 15 minutes of fame, Twitter groups such as @selfieolympics may be able to help. @ selfieolympics is a competition for the most outrageous selfie. People send in their selfies and the owner of the account chooses what to post on their site.

English Teacher Susan Arnold believe selfies are a waste of time and you want to reevaluate what you do in your free time.

“Sadly, I think that if you decide to spend your afternoon taking pictures of yourself and waiting to see how many ‘likes’ you get, you may want to get a life,” said Arnold.

Famous Selfies

ah fY

By Destiny Nagle & Sydney Buck

Popular cell phone company, Sprint becoming more intune with looks. reports about one trillion selfies will be “I do not care for selfies,” said Reinert. taken by the end of 2014, thanks to the “I do think they are stupid because you societal explosion of 2013. are taking a picture of yourself. Pictures Although she feels this generation is should be taken with others to remember a becoming vain because of selfies, Kuhns moment in your life.” admits to taking them.

Reinert feels society has changed “[I take] 10 [selfies] a day because of greatly.

SnapChat,” said Kuhns. “[Selfie taking “I believe society becomes too involved shows] that [people in] our generation are in meaningless trends when they could becoming more into themselves and con“[Selfie taking shows] that ceited to the point that they will stop and [people in] our generation are take a picture of themselves randomly becoming more into thembecause they think they look good.” selves and conceited to the SnapChat allows users to commupoint that they will stop and nicate with time-limited pictures and take a picture of themselves very few words. Thereafter the picture randomly because they think disappears and the receiver is unable to they look good.” retrieve it; however with all computer operated programs, there are always - Laura Kuhns loopholes.

Junior Hailey Philhower agrees that SnapChat is a strong medium for taking spend their time being more productive,” pictures of yourself. said Reinert. “[I take] about five a day because of Smurda sees the “Kardashian selfie” as a negative influence on today’s generation.

“Generally, I feel that the ‘Kardashian-selfie’ that exists today is narcissistic. I am concerned that the youth of today take this type of selfie to get attention for their looks rather than for their personalities or abilities,”said Smurda.

“Although, I feel as though I must mention that not all selfies are purely narcissistic because many include a social element.”

Reinert thinks the newest generation is consumed by their technology. “[Taking selfies] shows today’s generation is too attached to meaningless picSnapChat,” said Philhower. “Without tures and social media,” said Reinert.

SnapChat, once or twice a month.”

Is there something wrong with a new English teacher Susan Carville thinks profile picture on Facebook or getting people lose privacy when posting personal retweets of a picture on Twitter? pictures on the internet.

Junior Ryleigh Miller said selfie taking “The only disadvantage I can think of is perfectly acceptable. is having a selfie out in the universe that I “I think selfies are fine and there is might later regret,” says Carville. “...and nothing wrong with taking them,” said maybe a little loss of privacy, even if it is Miller. given up willingly.”

Like many others, Miller feels sees the Philhower believes the effect of selfies vanity of people come out when taking on this generation directly has to do with selfies. the involvement in ourselves.

“I feel girls are becoming more ob“I think it says that we’re wrapped up sessed with themselves,” said Miller. “I in ourselves and not worried about others think it is stupid.” as much as we’re concerned about ourFreshman Alex Fitzgerald feels selfies selves,” said Philhower. “It makes me feel is a way that people express themselves that people are only concerned with taking and show who they are. pictures of themselves. A few here and “I think that selfies are cool. They are there is okay, but all the time, no.” not stupid,” said Fitzgerald. “I think that Freshman Tabitha Chaparro thinks they are not stupid because it is just a people are becoming more involved with picture, and people express themselves. what’s on the outside as opposed to what’s My opinion of selfies and people who take on the inside. Since “selfie” is just another them, is totally fine.” word for a self portrait.

Fitzgerald’s belief remains the same on “I find it very funny. It says the people the word of the year. of this generation are so obsessed with “My opinion of the word selfie being looks,” said Chaparro. “That people are the word of the year is not bad at all,” said just so obsessed with their appearance.”

Fitzgerald. “I think that today’s generation Junior Abigail Reinert has never taken has a lot more technology, and people use a selfie and doesn’t see the benefit in it a lot more often today.” participating in the selfie movement and

ntally ccide ring a h s a u elly N ight d rter K l in mid fl e o p e l R ic pract res ba captu x batting o Red S

THE STINGER | April 2014

The Dangers of Selfies Whether you’re the type that has an album on your iPhone devoted to your face, or are still denying that “It’s SnapChat, it doesn’t count,” selfies have become a source of both humor and ridicule on social media networks. With more than 79 million pictures on Instagram alone hashtaged ‘selfie’, the ‘selfie nation’ is growing continually everyday.

However, is it possible that selfie taking could have consequences, or even dangers? Is your mental and physical health really be at risk when you’re snapping those duckfaces or peace signs? Well, it could be.

If you’ve ever texted while walking, you’ve probably had a time where you’ve tripped over or ran into something because you weren’t paying attention to your surroundings. This list of potential risks to selfie takers starts with this inattention.

Is this to say that while you’re sitting on your bed, snapping selfies with your phone you are in immediate and possibly

17

By Maura Benner

fatal danger? Well, no. However, out in the real world, being distracted because of selfie taking can result in unpleasant, or even dangerous, consequences.

CNN.com reports that more than 3,300 deaths occur every year from distracted driving, and while distracted driving can be categorized as many different things, one of the more popular slogans related to it is to stop the act of texting while driving, “Don’t Text and Drive.” However, some have taken to the phrase “Don’t Shoot and Drive,” due to the deadly new trend taking the stage.

Driving selfies -selfies taken while behind the wheel- are starting to pop up on social media sites, adding another danger to drivers on the road. Taking selfies behind the wheel, whether the car is in motion or not, is a very risky habit.

Not concentrating on the road ahead is hazardous both to yourself and others around you, presenting the same dangers as texting or talking on the phone behind

the wheel. Toyota even launched a “Don’t Shoot and Drive” campaign to encourage the disuse of selfie taking while driving.

This doesn’t just apply to driving. Distracting yourself with a mobile device to text, make calls, or take selfies, while performing any task is unsafe.

Keep in mind that if you are taking selfies in places you shouldn’t be, there are just more important things to worry about.

Another health risk to selfie takers comes in a smaller, more contagious form.

Head-lice treatment centers across the

Photo By digitaltrends.com

Culture

country believe that selfies are contributing to the spread of head-lice among teenagers. Though the parasites are more common among young children, the number of cases involving adolescents is growing.

Selfie: noun 1. A photograph that one has taken of oneself, typically one taken with a smartphone or webcam and uploaded to a social media website -Oxford Dictionary

Now Trending: The Selfie Olympics The Selfie Olympics (or “Selfie Games”) has become a running trend in todays social media due to the recent 2014 Winter Olympic Games.

Ranging from selfies of someone scaling a skyscraper to extreme bathroom acrobatics, Selfie Olympics has become

a trend throughout the world. Move over 2014 Winter Games, this is where the real action’s at.

Although a majority of the competition’s pictures are taken in the bathroom, for all its glamorous purposes, the pictures usually involve a very impressive “How do you bend that way?” pose.

People viewing the Selfie Olympics get just as much enjoyment as the people posting.

“They’re hilarious,” said senior Hanna Cappellini. “I think it’s really rad and creative.”

Part of the appeal of this Olympic competition is that anyone can participate, especially since they involve some

- Stinger Selfie Olympic Favs -

people’s favorite hobby: taking pictures of themselves.

“I think it has to do with attention,” said junior Justin Knecht.

Junior Melissa Iman agrees.

“It’s people craving attention 24-7,” said Iman.

To be a part of Selfie Olympics you have to put your best photo forward. It’s all about putting a photo out that makes the competition more interesting.

“They like the attention and the challenge to come up with something bigger than everyone else,” said Cappellini.

It’s very common to come across a wildly creative bathroom selfie, but you occasionally find the ones that bring the competition to the next level.

A flight engineer on NASA’s Expedition 38, Mike Hopkins, took the Selfie Olympics out of this world, literally. The photo showed Hopkins floating in outer space with his space suit on and selfie pose out. The only thing that may have outshined him in this picture was mother

By Hannah Maehrer Earth hanging out in the background.

While the Selfie Olympics provides entertainment it makes people do ridiculously dangerous stunts that could lead to a fatal accident.

“It makes people look dumb,” said Knecht. “Some people take it too far.”

Risky stunts are a large portion of the appeal to selfie Olympics. The more dangerous and edgy the picture the more views.

“That makes me feel that people are so desperate for attention that they would do anything, including risking their own life,” said Knecht.

Iman thinks people need to recognize the consequences of taking these selfies.

“If you’re going to be that stupid you have to think about the worst thing that could happen,” said Iman.

The life threatening factor remains present in the Selfie Olympics. Though it can be alarming, Selfie Olympics provide worldwide entertainment and are an excellent example of how the power of social media can influence the world.

All photos courtesy of google images

18

THE STINGER | April 2014

Culture

EMMAUS DRAMA DEPARTMENT PRESENTS: “BEAUTY AND THE BEAST” The Emmaus High School drama department came together this year to create a show that could have opened on Broadway. Emmaus performed Disney’s Beauty and the Beast March 19th through the 23rd, and sold out a week before the first performance. The actors sang and acted their hearts in one of the best theatrical performances to date.

This year, Emmaus opted for a more family-oriented show, contrary to the last several productions that were dripping with adult humor. Even as the performances have progressed and changed over the years, Emmaus has maintained its reputation for casting actors who seamlessly morph into their characters.

The beauty Belle, portrayed by Megnot Toggia, captivated the audience with her rhythmic, harmonious voice that made many of the elderly women in the crowd grab for their purse in desperate pursuit of a tissue. The Beast, played by Anthony Sharp, had a fittingly deep voice that bewitched the audience from his first word. However, two crowd favorites stood out drastically: Gaston, played

by Mason Trinkle, and Lumiere, played by Sawyer Long.

From the first time the audience gazed upon Gaston’s swagger and overly flexed arm muscles, his charisma enticed and delighted. Lumiere also managed to capture a few laughs by maintaining his faux French accent for the duration of the musical and showcasing the character’s playboy attributes. He sang the play’s most famous song, “Be Our Guest,” with precision that seemed well beyond his years. Mrs. Potts, portrayed by Amanda Haag, also displayed her talents while singing, “Beauty and the Beast,” and fit perfectly into Mrs. Potts’s motherly persona.

While the performances alone seemed well above the high school level, the sets and costumes delivered just as

By Will Newbegin

Photo by ourstage.com

Happiness Is

Change is inevitable. Taking Back Sunday’s sixth studio album, Happiness Is, is no exception to this rule.

In my mind, this album can be compared to a high school reunion: you leave with fond memories of your friends, but upon meeting them again, sometimes things just aren’t the same. To put that in a musical light, the album is much different from any of Taking Back Sunday’s previous musical works. Instead of sticking to their traditional “rough around the edges” pop-punk/emo sound, the

Lady Gaga is a G.U.Y.!

By Kayla McGovern

Lady Gaga’s new music video is nothing short of spectacular. The video for her current single “G.U.Y.” off of her latest album, ARTPOP, integrates Bravo stars, mythical creatures, and odes to past icons to form one succinct film: pregnant with meaning. The ARTPOP film debuted March 22 has amassed over 25 million views.

The G.U.Y. (Girl Under You), music video starts off with a different song entirely. We are introduced to the story through the album’s title track, “ARTPOP,” where men in suits chasing after money leave a broken phoenixGaga alone in the mud with an arrow through her heart.

This is an apparent reference to the people she has worked with in the past who used her for personal gain such as Troy Carter, her longtime manager with whom she split at the end of last year.

The self-directed art mantra allows Gaga to tell the tale of how she has been abused by the media and supposed friends but is brought back to her feet, or rises from the ashes, by the love of her adoring fans and family, all through brilliant fashion, catchy pop music, and feminist themes.

The wounded Gaga bird finds herself at the Hearst Castle, where she is welcomed and made new again, to the tune of the album’s second track, “Venus.” The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills stop by for a jam sesh, and Andy Cohen makes a cameo as Himeros, “god of sexual

A personal favorite was the dance number in “Be Our Guest,” where the performers danced around the stage wearing costumes resembling forks, knives, napkins, dishes, and salt and pepper shakers.

Belle’s gleaming gold dress shone brightly, and looked spectacular.

As wonderful as the musical was, it did have its downsides.

The first probAbove: Mason Trinkle and Meglem was the use of not Toggia smoke.

While the Top Right: Cast members eye fog was a crucial Megnot Toggia (Belle) during aspect to some “Belle” scenes, such as Bottom Right: Cast poses in their when Belle traveled “Be Our Guest” costumes through the woods, Photos By Jill Kuebler much. The set designs were pleasing to in other places it seemed the eye and appeared to be something out like dramatic overkill. In some parts of the play, smoke of an elegant children’s picture book. Play attendees muddled the actors and made the scene indiscernible. gasped and awed as the scenes appeared and the lightThe variety of accents confused the audience throughout ing welcomed ornate backdrops. Some attendees even the performance. However, these glitches did not detract questioned if the masterfully shaded paintings were flat from the overall performance. or three-dimensional.

To all those who missed the show, you missed out on a The costumes served as a crowd-pleaser just as well. truly amazing production.

band goes out on a limb. In return, they put out a more modern, less edgy, alt-rock sound.

One can hardly blame the band for trying to move in a new direction. As a musician, I am fully aware of the fact that playing the same stuff gets boring sometimes.

Or maybe they feel it’s necessary to stick with the times, since vamped-up, twangy alternative rock is what’s in right now. In the eyes of many, including my own, this is a high-risk, high-reward decision. You may be criticized for diverging from the original sound that earned you a following to begin with.

On the other hand, you may be praised for taking a bit of a ballsy chance. I would categorize myself into the latter of those two categories.

If you absolutely can’t stand when a band tries to adopt a new sound, heed my warning and don’t waste your time with Happiness Is. However, if you welcome change, and applaud musical exploration, go out and get a copy of this album immediately.

Too often, a band will try to go in a new direction and fall short of their intended musical product. Taking Back Sunday avoids that classification, as they successfully transition themselves from their pop-punk/emo roots into a more modern, yet strangely fitting alternative sound.

Their lineup remains the same, with Adam Lazzara on lead vocals, John Nolan on lead guitar and keyboards, Eddie Reyes on rhythm guitar, Shaun Cooper on bass, and Mark O’Connell on drums. The band’s chemistry is desire, son of Aphrodite.” While these appearances give the whole product placement feel of the “Telephone” music video, the intentions for me are less apparent. Why the stars of Bravo are playing the harp and acting as floating heads is beyond me, and this aspect I could have done without.

The song itself starts at 3:23 with Gaga appearing in a white lace bodysuit and accompanying feather headdress, looking more joyful than ever. She is reborn in the Neptune pool at the castle and takes on a new persona, most likely Aphrodite herself, as she refers to herself in “Venus’s” lyrics: “Aphrodite lady, / Seashell bikini.”

From this moment on, we are taken on a different adventure entirely.

Lady Gaga is not the broken girl she was at the beginning of the video. With the help of Minecraft specialist, Sky, Gaga revives great men of the past, including Michael Jackson, Jesus Christ, and Ghandi as she exudes strength.

Personally, I could have gone without the Minecraft involvement, but that’s just me. Using this same technique, she is able to hone the power men traditionally are given and creates a set of submissive men, breaking gender barriers and stereotypes. The video contains many shots of Gaga, centerview, with men appearing almost as accessories, catering to her every need.

We later see large dance numbers of men and women pairings, where the women are in control and maintain all the power. This mirrors “G.U.Y’s” lyrics: “I don’t need to be on top to know I’m worth it / Cuz I’m strong enough

evident, as the band’s lineup is the same as their 2002 debut album, Tell All Your Friends.

The album opens with the track “Preface.” More of a drowning robot than a song, it mixes atonal violins with gargled voices, and other nonsensical mechanical sounding ambiance to introduce the CD. Fortunately, the next two songs were very enjoyable. The second track, “Flicker, Fade,” is one of the better songs on the album.

This power ballad skillfully mixes mandolin/acoustic guitar-led verses with aggressive, vamping power chords during the choruses, along with an emotional yet strained vocal performance by lead singer Lazzara. The next song, “Stood A Chance,” resounds as well, using layered, bright, vamped up guitars to introduce the song. From then until the end, the album is very good. Not great, yet very good. I was particularly fond of the last song, “Nothing At All.” The song effectively closes the album with a blend of the band’s old-school, acoustic/emo roots with their new-school sound. The song ends with some of the ambient noises from the beginning, as if to bring their album full-circle.

As a whole, the album is more musically complex than previous albums. I noticed right away the incorporation of more vocal harmonies, more guitar tracks instead of their regular rhythm-and-lead duos, and more meaningful lyrics. As I said previously however, between the beginning and ends of the album, not many songs were particularly “great,” just very good.

Photo By mtv.com

By Holly Diehl

to know the truth, and also I’m in charge like a G.U.Y.” With this line, Gaga makes her message clear while shattering the stereotypical gender roles in society today.

In addition to intense messages and themes, the video is chock full of artistic references. A major inspiration to the whole ARTPOP era is Botticelli’s The Birth of Venus, which Gaga emulates while she’s in a bed with a seashell headboard. The Jeff Koons Gazing Ball also makes an appearance, another big player in Gaga’s ARTPOP game.

The music video, or film, if you will, accomplishes the goal Gaga set from the beginning of the era: to create a space where art and pop can exist together.

This holds true in every aspect of the video, from the blatant art references to smaller hints at icons, such as a pin straight-bleach blonde-do, inspired by Donatella Versace.

@StingerEHS

Farewell

Steve Gudonis

Stevie G Space

19

Here we are, my final column for The Stinger.

I must admit, this column is really a funny thing for me, and it’s always been that way.

Each and every issue, I’ve tried my hardest to put out well thought out, formulaic, and most importantly, interesting columns just as my predecessor and mentor Terence Cawley did issue after issue after

issue.

Terence’s column writing was truly fascinating to me. In particular, the way he told a story, and how he did it was truly inspiring. The average skimmer through the paper probably did not realize, but it is well-established fact within The Stinger realm that the “Color Commentary” was painfully long. And don’t get me wrong, that’s not a knock against Terence at all. It’s actually something I admire.

Something I regret about “Stevie G Space” is that I don’t feel like I was ever able to open up the way Terence did.

My brain is like a whirlwind, I’m literally always thinking about or trying to figure out something. For example, I literally just caught myself zoning out, thinking about how Bruce Springsteen’s second album “The Wild, the Innocent & the E Street Shuffle” doesn’t get enough respect (which is very, very true by the way).

The point I’m trying to make here, is with all the thoughts constantly spinning through my head, all the opinions I hold that I am so passionate about, and all the worthless crap I have stored in my brain, I believe “Stevie G Space” never lived up to its full potential.

Long story short, I think I tried way too hard, which might have held my column back. Not that writing a column shouldn’t be hard work, but I think I was putting too much emphasis on trying to fit a certain mold of writing. A mold of writing that I believed would have impressed my audience upon reading, and possibly even won an award or two.

So as I was sitting here, weighing my options on what to write on for this column, my option was either irrelevant to sports (Bruce Springsteen), a sap story about how much this column has meant to me, or something else in the world of sports.

Let’s review those options.

If I was to write about Bruce Springsteen, I’m pretty sure twelve teachers, my friends, and a few kids who were bored out of their mind during exams would give it a solid read. Not to mention, I would have to somehow fabricate some nonsense on the correlation between “The Boss” and sports, something that I’m really not trying to do.

Second option was writing a sap story about what this column meant to me, and how much I loved and cherished sharing my brilliant information (which I mostly looked up) with the masses. That would be nonsense. Let’s move on.

My third, and final option was to write about something in the world of sports. I would be doing what I did for every column up to this point.

So I just decided, screw it. What you’re reading right now is my column. Me rambling. I kind of like this, actually.

And who knows, maybe my columns were legit, and I’m just being hard on myself.

But as I’m rambling on and on here, I’m slowly starting to see the big picture (my perception of it at least).

What I’m writing about right now, and the process and overall outcomes of what my columns provided, could be looked at as a learning experience.

I’m learning literally as I’m writing this, that I am really proud of this column in particular. Why? This is my voice, these are my thoughts. I’m ranting, I’m rambling, and it feels great. My longdrawn-out, carefully crafted columns just weren’t me. They weren’t my voice.

So with everything that comes next in my life, I will make it my own. If I’m striving to please other people, and I’m not even pleased myself, why bother with whatever that thing may be.

As I wrap this mess up, I have a few thank yous, and a very important message for someone who will soon be replacing me in this very important position.

Ms. Reaman, there are no words to describe the impact you’ve had on me as not only a writer, but also as a person. I will be forever grateful for everything you have taught me, and being a part of The Stinger has been a highlight of my young life, thanks in large part to you. You will forever be a role model and an inspiration to me, and I know my peers feel the same way.

Thank you to my parents and my family, for supporting me and giving me guidance through all of the obstacles that life comes with.

Thanks to my fellow seniors. I believe this 2014 class is something special, and I am honored to be a part of it.

Thanks to my friends. You know who you are. Summer will be crazy, let’s do it big.

And as I wrap up, I have a very important message for Mr. John Lang.

I’ve been trying to type of some inspirational message for what I’m trying to say, but I’m just confusing myself, so let me make this simple.

Make this your own. I saw a vision of what I wanted sports to be, and I believe I executed. But this isn’t my section anymore. It’s John’s.

Mr. Lang, the floor is yours.

SPORTS 1

Blake Bortles QB, UCF

17

Ha Ha Clinton-Dix DS, Alabama

2

Jadeveon Clowney DE, South Carolina

18

Odell Beckham, Jr. WR, LSU

3

Teddy Bridgewater QB, Louisville

Zack Martin OT, Notre Dame

4

Johnny Manziel QB, Texas A&M

19 20

5

Sammy Watkins WR, Clemson

21

C.J. Mosley ILB, Alabama

6

Khalil Mack OLB, Buffalo

22

Bradley Roby DC, Ohio State

7

Greg Robinson OT, Auburn

23

Brandin Cooks WR, Oregon State

8 9

Jake Matthews OT, Texas A&M

24

Kyle Fuller DC, Virginia Tech

Taylor Lewan OT, Michigan

25

Louis Nix III DT, Notre Dame

26

Jason Verrett DC, TCU

10

Justin Gilbert DC, Oklahoma State

11

Anthony Barr OLB, UCLA

12

Eric Ebron TE, North Carolina

13

Mike Evans WR, Texas A&M

14

Aaron Donald DT, Pittsburgh

15

Darqueze Denard DC, Michigan State

16

Timmy Jernigan DT, Florida State

27

Calvin Pryor DS, Louisville

Dee Ford DE, Auburn

28 29

Ra’Shede Hageman DT, Minnesota

30

Marqise Lee WR, USC

31

Kony Ealy DE, Missouri

32

Morgan Moses OT, Virginia

Kelvin Benjamin WR, Florida State

Emmaus Hornets Track and Field

20

Photos and text by Lindsay Harner

Where can you find runners and jumpers, sprinters and hurdlers, throwers and vaulters? Only at Emmaus track and field.

Go to a meet and witness the Hornets compete in these various events. Emmaus High School’s track and field team is one of the best in the region. Last year, the girls finshed the season undefeated. Now, they stand as the league champions. As of last week, the girls stood at 8-0 and the boys were 5-3.

Head coach Shannon Petrunak is in her sixth year coaching the Hornets. Petrunak receives help from coaches Marc Zimmerman (throws), Eileen Shovlin (distance), Shane Riegel (hurdles/pole vault), James Ritter (sprints), and Rett Fisher (jumps).

The ancient Olympics, beginning in 776 B.C., consisted primarily of track and field events. These events have held a prominent position at the modern summer Olympics since the first one in 1896. Running events such as the 100 meter receive some of the highest levels of media coverage, more than any other Olympic event. But whether you like to participate or just watch, there is something for everyone at track and field.

Junior Jaclyn Reinbold prepares to hand off the baton.

Junior Ja’Quil St. Valle jumps hurdles.

Senior Kile Vierling runs to the finish line.

Senior Zobaku Acholonu braces herself to land a high jump.

(From left to right) Aidan Huzar, Coach Ritter, John Fritz, Brian Hummel, Coach Fisher, and Chase Pavelko (bottom) gather for what they call a “family picture.”

Junior Tom Wagner shot puts.

(From left to right) Coaches Ritter, Petrunak, Shovlin, Fisher, and Riegel talk as the team warms up.

Senior and team captain Dave Bucha pole vaults.

Senior Danica Benson falls out of her high jump.

Junior Loam Mirabal pole vaults as other team members cheer him on.

Freshman Steve Dimitriadas shot puts.

The runners of the Emmaus track and field team race against William Allen High School’s team.

SPORTS THE STINGER

21

April 2014

Hornets boys lax aiming for district championship

Senior Nick Tonno feels that teamwork is crucial for success.

“Our work ethic is extremely hard,” said Tonno. “We always strive to work as a team. We try not to have individuality.”

Ketcham agrees with Tonno.

“We’re not a bunch of individuals out there,” Ketcham told Lehigh Valley Live. “We play together.”

Tonno plays attack for the team and plans to pursue lacrosse in college this coming fall.

“I’ll be playing at Albright College,” said Tonno.

Although lacrosse is fairly new to most high schools, it is one of the oldest sports in North America, dating back to the 1630s.

Lacrosse is becoming the fastest growing sport in the United States, with the Lehigh

Photos courtesy of mcall.com

#12 Storm Schichtl

themselves trailing 0-3 in the first inning. Behind six solid innings of relief from LeMaster, a 4-5 day at the plate from Findlay, and game-tying three run double from Healy, the Hornets won 9-4, improving to 5-0.

Emmaus then moved to 6-0 following a 9-2 victory of Nazareth. Moore improved to 3-0 after a season-high eight strikeout performance. Not only did Hinkle pitch two scoreless innings of relief, he also added two hits.

Junior Lukas Weider had three hits, along with driving in three runs.

Their next contest was against LVC rival Whitehall. The Hornets defeated the Zephyrs 2-0, behind what may one of the most dominant pitching performances in Emmaus baseball history. LeMaster threw a complete game shutout, and added a career-high 13 strikeouts, as he improved to 3-0 on the season.

The Hornets then sat at 7-0, going into their next game against rival Central Catholic.

Moore, who watched LeMaster pitch a gem two days prior, pitched three and one-thirds in-

ning of one-hit baseball, as his offensive routed the Vikings 11-0. Moore moved to 4-0, and Emmaus remained undefeated at 8-0.

Emmaus then defeated CB East 5-1, behind two-hit games from Schichtl and junior firstbaseman Joel Bartoni.

In the following contest against Scranton-Prep, the Hornets’ aces LeMaster and Moore were given the day off. They were not needed, as Bartoni and fellow junior Teja Venigalla combined for a two-hitter, and the offense drove in 11 runs, as Emmaus won 11-1, moving to 10-0.

In their next contest, the Hornets suffered their first loss, falling to Easton 1-2.

As of writing, the Hornets have eight regular season games remaining, including their yearly game at the Lehigh Valley Iron Pigs’ Coca Cola Park on May 1 against Central Catholic.

The LVC playoffs start May 13, where the Hornets will begin the prosperous post-season run they have been striving for.

Infielder

#23 Jason Fatzinger

seniors have been working for over the years.

“We have a lot of expectations for ourselves and this is what we’ve been looking forward to: growing up and playing with each other all of these years,” said Miller.

The Hornets won their season opener against Blue Mountain 12-3 behind a 3-4, four RBI day at the plate from Findlay, and a strong day on the mound from LeMaster.

The Hornets then opened up LVC play in their next contest against Allen. Moore, a lefthander, threw a seven strikeout game. Findlay went 3-3, and Fatzinger and Miller added two hits each, as the Hornets defeated Allen 5-1, moving to 2-0.

Emmaus would go onto defeat Dieruff 7-1, and then took on their first potential challenge: Liberty. Behind five solid innings from Moore, the Hornets defeated Liberty 6-3. Moore improved to 2-0, and junior Trey Hinkle picked up his first save, as the Hornets improved to 4-0.

In their next contest against Northampton, the Hornets found

Outfielder

Pitcher

#25 Josh LeMaster

The Emmaus baseball team entered this season striving to improve on their impressive 2013 campaign.

Last year, the Hornets finished with a 17-5 record and won their division.

Coming into this season, 17year head coach John Schreiner kept his goals consistent.

“We have the same goals as last season, which is winning our division and hoping for a better showing in the playoffs,” said Schreiner.

The Hornets lost key players to graduation, including pitcher Luke Miller, first-baseman Zach Fotta, and infielder Luini Ortiz.

However, experience is not an issue this year. The team is bolstered by seniors Jason Fatzinger, Dan Findlay, Connor Healy, Josh LeMaster, Jared Miller, Jack Moore, Jake Pacheco, Francis Ortiz, and Storm Schichtl.

LeMaster, a left-handed pitcher, had an impressive 2013 campaign, finishing 6-2 with a 1.67 ERA. Coming into this year, Le-

Master set big goals for his team, and he believes they have the talent to do it.

“As a team, I would first like to win LVC’s, then hopefully win districts, then compete in the state tournament,” said LeMaster.

Findlay, a catcher, also came into this season with high expectations.

“Our team wants to win the LVC mainly and make a strong run in districts,” said Findlay.

“We have confidence that we can do this if we play to our potential.”

Fatzinger, an outfielder, believes the seniors’ play will take the Hornets where they strive to be.

“Last year as juniors, I felt we had a pretty solid season, but we fell a little short in LVC’s and districts,” said Fatzinger. “Now that we’re seniors, I feel that we should improve and do better than last year. Expectations wise, I’m hoping we can win it all - both league and districts.”

Miller, an outfielder, believes this season is a culmination of everything he and his fellow

Midfielder

Seniors leading Emmaus baseball to greatness

Cole Reece Sports Contributor

Valley adding four teams in the last three year at Bethlehem Catholic, Liberty, Freedom, and Northampton high schools.

Lacrosse is most commonly referred to as the fastest sport on two feet because the ball can be passed and moved very quickly.

According to Ketcham, his team can move the ball 80 yards in about three to four seconds on a good day.

“We have a lot of younger players that are beginning to understand what we are trying to accomplish as a team,” said Ketcham. “If they improve their understanding of how fast we would like to play,” he said, “we have the opportunity to be a special team.”

#37 Joey DeCaprio

Ketcham is in his third season as coach here at Emmaus and likewise anticipates the team going far this year.

“We expect to compete for the district championship, which we won last season,” said Ketcham.

“If we can achieve that goal, we would love the opportunity to go back to the state tournament and have a shot at going further this year.”

Senior Mike Kashuba agrees.

“I think the team expects a strong season,” said Kashuba.

“We’ve been doing pretty well so far, and we have some really strong players.”

Kashuba, who plays close defense, is in his second year on the team.

“I’m not a long-time player, so I’ve still been learning,” said Kashuba.

Midfielder

Attacker

# 2 0 N i c k To n n o

Lacrosse requires its players to be thoroughly diverse in certain skills such as catching, dodging, throwing, and shooting the ball at a very fast pace.

Along with having to be talented players, Emmaus lacrosse coach Scott Ketcham expects the team to be committed to working hard and being good people, not just good athletes.

“These captains and almost all of our players have lived up to these lofty expectations,” said Ketcham. “Our three captains are great leaders not only on the field but in school as well.”

Senior captain Brendan McGeary is proud of the effort the team has put in this season.

“We’re working really hard,” said McGeary. “We’re all so fo-

cused. We just want to succeed.”

McGeary, a defenseman, takes his role as a team leader seriously.

“As captains we’re expected to control the team,” said McGeary. “We keep everyone in order.”

Senior Captain Nate Kraemer agrees with McGeary.

“I’m expected to lead my team on and off the field with my fellow captains,” said Kraemer.

Kraemer plays midfield for the team and sees the team going far this year, especially after playing Central Catholic.

“After [the Central] game, my expectations for the season are really high,” said Kraemer.

“I’d like to go to states again.”

Last year, the team secured the well-deserved title of District 11 champions.

#13 Zack Bernhard

Rania Draklellis Sports Contributor

Photos cour tesy of Facebook and Twitter

22

“It looks like she was born to run.”

-Barry Seng on Hanna Brosky

Four

Hanna Brosky

FAST FACTS Height: 5’7”

Pre-Workout Snack: Graham Crackers Song: Over the Rainbow Year of Highschool: Freshman

Senior Hanna Brosky has run her way into the record books and the memories of Emmaus High School students.

Brosky has been running competitively since she was five years old, and all those years of experience have paid off. Brosky has already broken the record for fastest anchor time in the four-byfour relay. She received the Most Valuable Player award for both cross country and track last year.

She has won four total awards for Most Outstanding Player in her high school career. She was also The Morning Call’s Athlete of the Year last year. All of these accomplishments can only come from hard work, experience, and a love for running.

“I’ve been running for as long as I can remember,” said Brosky. “I started track my sophomore year because I used to play soccer. I was originally just going to run cross country, but I loved track so much I changed from long distance to short distance.”

Running is much more than just a hobby to Brosky.

“In my mind, running is the purest form of all sports,” said Brosky. “Not only is it individual, completely mental,

and built off stamina, but it’s a sport that anyone can participate in. You can just run.”

Brosky was voted by her teammates as team captain for girls’ track this year. She has all the makings of a role model for her fellow teammates.

“Hanna won nearly all the votes this year from our distance team to be one of their leaders, and I can see why,” said distance coach Eileen Shovlin. “She’s friendly, helpful, and an outstanding role model to them. They all look up to her. Not just the girls, [she inspires] the boys too.

Heck, she runs as fast as many of them.”

Senior Teammate Kathryn Carney agrees.

“Hanna is an exceptional athlete because of how hard she works to accomplish her goals; she is one of the most determined people I know,” said Carney. “She is such a good leader and captain because she always sets a good example for her teammates and shows them that hard work pays off.”

Brosky assumes a leadership role with her head held high.

“I was happy to be chosen as a leader for the team. I try as hard as I can to input into

people a positive attitude, because running is such a mental sport, and you need to have the confidence to beat your personal record,” said Brosky. “I practice with the guys, and I hope that by trying to make myself better, other people can push to make themselves better.

I try to let people know that a race is just you and time against each other to completely better your time, and you can always get better.”

“There’s no question about it, Hanna is a champion, and her quest to be the best she can be rubs off on our team,” Shovlin said. They look up to her. They want to be like her.

She works hard. And most importantly, she’s humble.”

Junior boys’ track teammate Barry Seng credits her dedication and skill.

“I would say her determination is a big factor,” said Seng.

“She’ll never back down from a challenge.”

Shovlin attributes many things to Brosky’s success.

“To be an exceptional runner, you have to be strong, fast and have a good head. Hanna has it all. She not only has extraordinary talent, but works hard and sets goals,” Sholvin said.

Brosky gets constant sup-

port from her family.

“I could not have done it without my parents,” said Brosky. “They didn’t make me a better runner, but they gave me the opportunity to be a better runner by taking me to meets and places to train. The biggest thing I had to learn, my dad taught me this, is that nothing comes from just being good at something. It takes a lot of time and hard work to succeed, or else you’ll just be average.”

Brosky has a full scholarship to run track at Lehigh University. She plans on studying environmental engineering.

Seng sums it up with one statement.

“It looks like she was born to run.”

By John Lang

Rowan Hobson

FAST FACTS Height: 6’2” Food: Guac Movie: Forrest Gump Show: Breaking Bad

After playing varsity tennis since his freshman year at Emmaus High School, senior Rowan Hobson leads the team by example.

Since the dawn of Hobson’s tennis career at Emmaus High School, his skill as a player has been evident.

He has played tennis at Emmaus for four years, all on varsity. Having been named All Star of the Lehigh Valley Conference for three consecutive years, he has played a key role in the success of the tennis team.

However impressive they seem, Hobson’s accomplishments on the court do not define his position on the team better than his unyielding positive attitude.

rest of the team.”

Hobson began playing tennis at age 12, drawn to the sport by the amount of competition and repetition that it entailed.

“I enjoy repetition,” Hobson said. “With tennis, it’s all about proper repetition of your strokes.”

His appreciation for the sport drove Hobson to travel the region as his skill increased. The journey led to his befriending of a great deal of other individuals within the tennis community, motivating Hobson to continue playing.

“The more you play, the farther you go, and the more people you meet,” Hobson said.

participation, but unfortunate loss in the LVC district finals last year with FitzMaurice, his doubles partner.

Playing alongside and against friends left Hobson with an experience that outweighs the harsh sting of the loss.

“Even though we lost, it was fun getting to play in the finals with my bros,” said Hobson. “We aim to win this year and encourage everyone to come to the finals.”

FitzMaurice acknowledges Hobson’s leadership on and off the court.

“He’s a good role model in “He has always been regarded as a top player.” the fact that he -FitzMaurice on Hobson brings a really positive attitude Hobson’s teammates Coach Dimitri Diamando- to play whether it’s practice recognize his fraternal poulos recognizes Hobson’s or a match,” said FitzMaupersonality and respect his determination and comrice. seniority. Sophomore Matt mends him on his athletic Diamandopoulos, now FitzMaurice believes Hobprogress. in his 20th year coaching at son leads the team through “Rowan has truly matured Emmaus, considers Hobhis sense of enjoyment. as a player,” said Diamanson to be an influential role “His positive attitude and dopoulos. “His skills have model amongst the tennis personality really come out reached new levels since team. on the court,” said FitzMau- freshman year.”

“Rowan is definitely a rice. “He’s a great player Hobson’s persistence and person that the guys look up and bonds really well the dedication have led to his to,” said Diamandopoulos.

“Not just because of his skill and seniority, but also by his positive personality.”

Hobson’s skill is admired by his partner.

“He has always been regarded as a top player and with his record, he has really proved himself over the years,” said FitzMaurice.

Hobson plans to attend University of Washington following his graduation of Emmaus High School.

Despite his experience and love for the sport, Hobson is unsure if he will play tennis in college.

By Dave Heiney

Faces

23

“He has left his mark on our program” -Debra Schlosser on Jake Reynolds

Olivia Marcks

ference team and All-Area team honors.

These personal accolades are important to Marcks, but they are not her motivating factor.

What motivates Marcks is winning.

As a leader, her winfirst mentality rubs off on her team as well.

less hours perfecting her skill,” said Eyer. “When Olivia is in the circle, her game steps up to another level and she is all business.”

Junior teammate Faith Montgomery commends Marcks’ drive.

“I really like how she gives everything her all,” said Montgomery.

“Together as a team we all want to win and it brings us close together,” said Marcks. “During the season we become a family because we all share the same goal, and that’s to win and make a name for ourselves.”

Marcks believes her greatest accomplishment in softball was pitching a complete game, and defeating Northampton in the LVC semi-finals last year.

“Northampton was the favorite to win it all and no one really expected us to put up a fight, but we won in extra innings,” said Marcks. “The whole team was so happy and our coaches were so excited, it was just one of the greatest feelings in the world.”

Eyer praises Marcks’ work ethic.

“Olivia tends to put a lot on herself and has spent count-

Another teammate, junior Alexis Fink, views Marcks as a leader.

“She’s a very supportive team player, always cheering on the team even when she’s not playing,” said Fink. “She’s a great leader.”

Marcks gains motivation from three simple words, but they are more than just words to her.

“Inside my glove I have written in Sharpie ‘don’t let up.’ My dad once said that to me,” said Marcks. “He said don’t let up, no matter how tired you are, don’t let up.”

As for this year, Eyer believes Marcks is one of many returning players who can lead his team to greatness.

“We have a lot of returning players who have been together for three to four years and have confidence and trust

“She gives everything her all.”

-Montgomery on Marcks

Growing up, Olivia Marcks tried her hand at many sports.

“I tried pretty much every sport out there,” said Marcks, a senior at Emmaus. “But when I got older, I had to narrow it down to the one I really liked.

At one point, it came down to softball and field hockey.

“I decided to stick with softball because it felt right.”

Simply based on her success in the sport, it’s safe to say Marcks made the right decision.

A pitcher, Marcks has been a vital part of John Eyer’s Emmaus varsity squad for all four years of her high school career.

In those four years, she holds an impressive earned run average of 1.62, and has racked up 278 strikeouts and counting.

She has also received All-Con-

in each other,” said Eyer. “The team this year has the talent to move into the postseason.”

Marcks and her fellow seniors share their coaches’ vision.

“We have a lot of seniors this year and all of us really want to leave our mark and make an impact on Emmaus softball one last time,” said Marcks. “This year will be the last time we ever step on the field together. We want to go out with a bang.”

Throughout her four years at Emmaus, Marcks dreamed of playing of playing D1 NCAA softball.

However, she placed more importance on following the footsteps of her grandmother, both of her parents, and sister by attending her dream school: Penn State University.

“A lot of opportunities were presented to me to play at some big schools, but I ended up deciding that attending my dream school was more important than playing at a random school,” she said.

Marcks will attend Penn State this fall. She plans to try out for the Nittany Lions and hopefully walk on if an opportunity is presented.

By: Matt Frank

FAST FACTS Height: 5’6” Movie: Inception Food: Hot wings Celebrity Dream Date: John Mayer or Brody Jenner

Jake Reynolds

Senior Jake Reynolds of the Emmaus men’s volleyball team has been described as funny, hardworking, and competitive.

According to head coach Debra Schlosser, these three qualities play a key role in Reynold’s success on the court. As Reynolds has been playing on the varsity level for four consecutive years, these attributes have helped him lead the Hornets in their third district championship in a row.

“Winning districts was surreal,” Reynolds said. “Especially in the fashion that we won it.”

The team won districts the first three years that Reynolds played varsity, and they often joke around with him that if they win the district title again

this season, he will have completed the “Reynolds’ Sweep.”

Reynold’s contribution to the team has been significant and his performance has greatly improved since he first joined the team as a freshman.

“He is mentally tougher now,” said Schlosser. “He is more athletic and he understands the game far better.”

Reynolds currently holds the position of setter on the team, but he has played a different position each year.

“Not many athletes can do that,” said Schlosser on his versatility.

Teammate Gregory Lind, a junior, agrees that Reynolds is a true leader and an overall great guy.

“He’s the captain of the team and he picks your head up whenever he sees that you are upset with your play,” said Lind. “That’s a true characteristic of a leader.”

Lind said that Reynolds is one of the best players in the league, and that affects everyone else on the team.

Reynolds is very supportive of his team members and encourages the team to play their best, is easy to get along with, and has a good sense of humor.

Lind’s favorite memory with Reynolds was his reaction to when they won districts last season. “He immediately ripped off his shirt after winning the District XI title last year,” said Lind.

“It was so peculiar and very funny.”

Junior teammate Victor Morales, a defensive specialist, found this moment to be comical and agreed that it was one of his favorite moments with Reynolds.

“That was probably one of the funniest things I’ve seen,” said Morales. “He’s always making me laugh whether it’s on or off the court.”

Morales said Reynolds is a good leader on the court.

“He encourages me every day to become a better player and stay mentally focused during practice and in games,” said Morales.

Morales also admires how Reynolds handles himself through any tough situation on the court.

Reynolds shares that his favorite memories while being on the team were the overnight tournaments to Penn State every year and getting to spend quality time with the team.

But as with all sports, everything is not always just

Senior portraits courtesy of R.J. Harwick

fun and games. There are always challenges to overcome.

Reynolds has found that playing with different players every year and learning individual teams and their playing types from year to year are the most difficult challenges when playing volleyball.

Some teams that will provide tough matchups for the hornets this season include Parkland, Northampton, and Whitehall.

“They are all skilled teams and very competitive this year,” said Reynolds.

After graduation, Reynolds plans to attend Temple University to study business management and minor in entrepreneurship.

Reynolds has proven that he has made a significant mark on the team and he will always be admired for his skills, dedication to the sport, and amicable personality. Even if the team does not continue its winning streak, Reynolds will have left a lasting impression for his previous wins.

“He has left his mark on our program,” said Schlosser.

“Whether or not we achieve [his fourth district championship], I think those years of winning will stay attached to his name.”

By: Olivia Riccio

FAST FACTS Height: 5’11” Color: Blue Movie: The Departed School Subject: Social Studies

Battle of the Sexes

Taking on the Volcano Girls versus boys. Women versus men. XX versus XY. Or so we thought.

As we marched into The Inside Scoop like soldiers preparing for battle, we wholeheartedly thought we were ready. Fourteen softball size scoops of ice cream, eight toppings: the one and only Volcano.

We confidently approached the counter to order two, one for each team, and were told to pick our flavors. The girls huddled around one table, the guys around another; members of each team shouted out flavors and toppings that appealed to their tastes.

After placing our orders, we sat and waited, discussing whether or not we had heeded Ms. Reaman’s half-joking advice to forego eating that day.

Suddenly, a siren began blaring and lights started flashing.

Around the back corner as though to sneak up on us, they came: two servers each bearing monstrous bowls of what could only be deliciousness.

We avidly grabbed our weapons and paused long enough to each snap a picture to savor the moment (though I think the guys didn’t really care and just began).

We then ravenously dug in.

After the first few moments of “what’s this flavor?” and “eww, whatever this flavor is tastes disgusting,” the girls had the bowl situated just as they would like. That’s when we tightened up our huddle and really began shoving it down.

The guys (who will claim they were at a disadvantage because they had three fewer people, but come on, they’re high school guys…) just willy-nilly ate whichever flavor they pleased.

After some time had passed, the ice cream began melting, and the flavors began melding. Mint-chocolatebanana-purple-vanilla-peanut butter-cake batter is certainly not a pleasant combination, and more than one face twisted up in distaste, but at least at that point the

girls were semi close to being As I came up for air and guys, I noticed they were slowing clearly superior sex) had pulled quite far ahead.

Then I heard the one and only Dave Heiney suggest that they push all of their fla-

finished. glanced over at the down, and we (the

vors together to “make it easier.”

Bad idea.

If you thought the previous combination sounded unappetizing, then add maple bacon into the mix. Not to mention, pushing everything together made it appear as though there was more ice cream than before.

By this point the girls were scraping the last of the ice cream and shooting triumphant looks at the crestfallen faces of our male counterparts. However, looking at the pained expressions on their faces, we could only see our fellow editors in need.

We again picked up our weapons and walked over to help out our fallen comrades.

As the collective we finished off the second

bowl, we realized it more worthy gender, for superiority, but to defeat a

was not about finding the not about two sides fighting rather about coming together common enemy.

As all of us walked, or more so painfully limped, out, gripping our stomachs like war wounds, not wanting to think about food for the rest of the year, we saw our picture, taken with both teams together, placed on the wall among all of the other survivors.

We, The Stinger, defeated the Volcano.

What: The Volcano Where: The Inside Scoop 301 N 3rd St, Coopersburg Why: Why not?