Bear Facts Mahanoy Area High School March 15, 2010

Clear Bookbags: An Illusional Sense of Security or a Wise

Movement Towards Safety? BY: Ana Granados As a result of the bomb scare, which occurred during made when circumstances arise will be beneficial to January of 2010, a new policy regarding the use of the school district. clear bookbags has been set forth by Mr. Crimaldi, the Also from a teacher’s perspective, Mr. Wade, who M.A.S.D. superintendent. Without any discussion or teaches government and current events classes, feels debate among the school board, staff, or students, he indifferent about the policy set in place. Although he enforced the notion soon after the incident. Although does not think it will help, it cannot really hurt, either. the policy is familiar throughout the middle school, He made the point that even though the school might where it has been applied for several years, the deci- “appear” to be safer, there is no evidence whatso- sion has left many school students and members sur- ever to support the reasoning behind the decision. It prised, shocked, and concerned. Given that the true does, however, act as an inconvenience to students, intention of the policy is to prevent future threats and especially since the policy is being enforced in the strengthen the safety of M.A.H.S., numerous ques- middle of the school year. Mr. Wade also mentioned tions arise, such as its effectiveness, impact, bene- that the students are at a disadvantage because they fits, and ultimate disadvantages. need to spend money on poorly made clear book- When asked whether or not they support the deci- bags, which he finds to be “ridiculous.” sion, both Senior Stormie Lee Kapp and a student What affect will this policy leave on local school dis- who wishes to remain anonymous, strongly dissent- tricts? Stormie firmly believes that there is none at ed. In response, Stormie Lee Kapp said, “The clear all, because “… the incident that brought on this idi- bookbag policy is pointless, as it doesn’t do what it otic policy was an isolated one,” while Anonymous is allegedly put in place to…” Anonymous noted that remains neutral. On the other hand, Mr. Wade made if someone wanted to bring a potentially dangerous a comment on the potential movement towards ex- object into school, a bookbag is not their only resort. cessive safety measures, with little to no evidence of Sure enough, a clear bookbag will not put a dead stop their effectiveness. to such an act. Besides the question of safety, the pri- There is no doubt that this policy has affected one or vacy violations, lack of expression and inconvenience another on every level. Whether it is through mere were used to justify their answers, as well. inconvenience or a belief of protection, the policy Despite these claims, Mrs. Fegley, a chemistry teach- has made a dramatic difference upon student life er, does support the policy. She said, “I feel it makes at M.A. And so, the true question still stands. Clear M.A.H.S. safer. It may not stop everyone from bring- bookbags… are they really an illusional sense of se- ing something in but it may stop most.” She sees that curity or a step in the right direction to ensure safety the realization of ongoing changes that have to be of our school? You decide.

PSSA testing Final exams April 7-16 for math and reading Seniors: May 20-26 April 19-23 for writing Underclassmen finals: May 28-June 3 April 26-30 for science Senior Interviews will be scheduled on June 1st and 2nd. All graduating seniors will go through a mock interview to complete their graduation project. Graduation: Tuesday, June 8

Contributing to this issue of Bear Facts: Brittany Davies, Robert Filiziani, Ana Granados, Stormie Lee Kapp, Jennifer Lawrence, Katie McCarthy, Sara Madiera, Jenna Michaels, Jessica Rago, Samantha Rudloff, Rebecca Williams Mahanoy Area High School March 15, 2010

See Ms. Scic for details. Deadline: April 16, 2010 Are you or a friend... Worried About a ... Having problems keeping your grades up? ...No longer feel like hanging out with friends or family? Friend? ...Not enjoying your favorite activities like you used to? ...Being bullied or harrassed? ...Feeling like you just can’t seem to get it together? ...Experimenting with or using alcohol or other drugs? ...Adjusting to a new school? ...Close to someone or have a family member serving in the military? ...Having thought of hurting yourself or someone else? ...Feeling emotionally overwhelmed? ...Always worrying? ...Thinking about suicide? ...Dealing with the breakup of a relationship? ...Being hurt physically or emotionally by someone? There is an anonymous referral ...Dealing with major changes in your family like your parents’ divorce? box in the hallway near Mrs. Blue’s ...Dealing with the illness or death of someone close to you? office where students can refer a friend (or themselves) to the The Student Assistance Team is a group of school and community staff that is here to help you deal with problems that are stopping you from doing well in school or Student Assistance Program. Bro- stressing you out. The staff will respect you and your parent’s/guardian’s privacy at chures are located by the box and all times. Members include Mrs. Blue, Mrs. Stone, Ms. Pollack, Ms. Scic, Mr. Vavra, Mrs. students can use those to make Bet, Ms. Wetzel, Mr. DiCasimirro, Mrs. Caufield, Mrs. Henninger, Mr. Wetzel, Mr. Cray, their referral. Mrs. Delia and Mrs. Orsulak. Mahanoy Area High School March 15, 2010 Mahanoy Area High School March 15, 2010 WHAT HAPPENED TO HAITI? BY: Sara Madeira What would you do if you were caught in an earth- quake? What would you do if you were stuck under the rubble from a building you once saw standing? On January 12th, the worst earthquake in two hun- dred years struck the Haiti region. Like most people, the Haitians experienced nothing like this before. Their capital was washed out; most of the buildings are now in piec- es. Many people died under the rubble from these buildings and some “The Scenic” weren’t rescued for days. When asked what his first thoughts were Mr. Wade replied, “Why Haiti? Plays at MA It hit the worst possible place in the Caribbean.” Mr. Wade explained that they were the most unfortunate at the time in the Caribbean. To help the BY: Samantha Rudloff Haitians, people have been donating their money and time. Time goes If you weren’t at the Mahanoy Area to helping rescue people who can’t help themselves, to rebuild, and to High School gym at three o’clock entertain and to keep the Haitians in good spirits. Money is needed for on January 31st, you missed out! food, water, shelter, medicine, medical supplies, and so on. A performance by the band, “The The news was filled with phenomenal stories. One involved a man who Scenic” was sponsored by the Ma- was trapped under six stories of a hotel. He believed he was going to hanoy Area Band Boosters. “The die, and prayed to God that he would survive for his family. When he Scenic” is a famous label band thought his chances were getting slim, he wrote messages to his two from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. sons, just in case he didn’t see them again. Strangely enough, this man You may ask why a band with a was pulled out from the rubble a week after the earthquake. What would record label play a benefit show? you do if you were stuck in a situation like this? Mr. Wade said he would Sophomore Leah Leahy was re- survive by trying to get water, staying calm and keeping busy, and stay- sponsible for the entire show. She ing positive by thinking happy thoughts. Also, he’d try to get messages thinks that the event greatly ben- out somehow so he could be rescued. efited the Mahanoy Area music One of the most heartbreaking effects of this earthquake was the Haitian program. There were other perfor- kids that lost their parents. “This is one of the worst things that could mances as well, by Our Battle Our happen; there is no way of fixing it,” said Mr. Wade. It could take up to War, Now! The City, Tessel, Mike ten years or more to rebuild Haiti. Thankfully, the United States has sent Soxy, and Condition Oakland. It troops to help them clean up the rubble and begin rebuilding. was a great deal - eight bands for “Hope for Haiti” was held on January 22 to help raise money for the twelve dollars. Leah Leahy stated, Haitians. Musicians helped raise the spirit of Haitians by singing songs. “The show had a good turnout and Pieces from a man’s journal were read to the world so we, as bystand- hopefully we can do something ers, could understand what it was like there when the earthquake struck. similar again next year!” Leah also Celebrities answered phone calls for the few hours “Hope for Haiti” added, “The Scenic sang Happy lasted, talking to people from all over the country about the earthquake. Birthday to me! I was so happy it People donated what they could afford, but even giving something as brought me to tears.” Another ad- small as five dollars helps the Haitian people. While some people agree vantage to going to this show was with trying to get donations for Haiti, others disagree. When asked what being able to meet all the bands his feelings were on the situation as a whole, Mr. Wade responded, “The and buy their shirts and cds as United States will never go away now, eventually it’ll be bad for America souvenirs. The show was definite- and Haiti.” ly worth the twelve dollar ticket! Mahanoy Area High School March 15, 2010 READ ACROSS AMERICA WEEK CELEBRATED

On Tuesday, March 2, the Mahanoy Area Elementary students celebrated Read across America Week by reciting an oath and then signing it. The oath that they signed said that they would promise to read more of- ten. Read Across America Week celebrates the birth- day of Dr. Suess. A few high school Literary Society members read to the elementary students and some even wore Dr. Seuss hats. Books such as “My Goose Betty”, “Curious George”, and “Cinderella’s Rat”, as well as numerous books written by Dr. Seuss himself were read. The following Literary Society members participated, Stormie Lee Kapp, Ian Leahy, Sarah Ha- nock, Kassie Troxell, Ana Granados, Brittany Fliziani, Meghan Flaim, and Shana Noon. The elementary stu- dents enjoyed the high school readers and the liter- ary society members had a fun time doing it.

Literary Society members Shana Noon, Jess Rago and Andreah White prepare to read to elementary Codie Bradbury (above), Shana Noon (right) and students during Read Across America Week. Meghan Flaim (below) read to elementary students to commemorate the birthday of Dr. Seuss during Read Across America Week. Mahanoy Area High School March 15, 2010 MAHANOY AREA ANONYMOUS DRUG ACTIVITY TIP LINE

. YOU CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE! Do you know someone who needs help with a drug problem? Did you witness legal drug activities? Do you know of drug dealings taking place anywhere in the area? Do you suspect of drug storage or processing in your neighborhood? Help us combat drug activity by letting us know it. Working in partnership, we can make a difference! The Mahanoy City Police Department ANONYMOUS DRUG ACTIVITY TIP LINE is for the confidential and anonymous reporting of information and non-emergency incidents to the Mahanoy City Police Department. The line has been set up so that members of the community and students of the Mahanoy Area School District can report information that they may otherwise be reluctant to report. The Tip Line is a voice mailbox with a recorded message. A caller can leave a message containing the information that he or she wishes to share with the police department. There is no way to identify the caller or the line the caller is calling from. A caller is welcome to identify themselves and leave contact information if they wish and are encour- aged to do so if the situation reguires follow-up contact. The information left on the Tip Line will be checked frequently, and investigated as necessary. The Tip Line is a non-emergency line. If an incident is an emergency or requires an immediate re- sponse, call 911.

Help us take back our community by reporting illegal drug activity on the Tip Line! Mahanoy Area High School March 15, 2010 Phalanx: A-Capella Group Performs at Mahanoy Area By: Katie McCarthy

Mahanoy Area high school students had the privilege forming. Rehearsals tend to get stressful around of watching an extraordinary musical performance by concert weeks but once we are on stage we try to “Phalanx” on January 13th. “Phalanx” is Elizabeth- relax and entertain the audience, so they feel relaxed town College’s all male a-capella group. The group and are able to enjoy the concert.” currently consists of eleven vocalists, all of whom dazzled the audience with their unique talents that Bear Facts: “With a number of different members morning. The name of their group, “Phalanx”, means of varying opinions, is deciding exactly how a song a group of men coming together for a common goal. should be arranged difficult or do your ideas tend to The obvious goal of this group is to sing a-capella mu- flow together smoothly?” sic, (singing without instrumental accompaniment), Phalanx: “Every member of the group brings his and they do it very well. Phalanx brought talents to ideas out in rehearsal, and we all are completely dif- Mahanoy’s stage that sparked a new appreciation ferent. We try to listen to everyone’s opinion but for for music in many students. Senior Kyle Kozie said, musical decisions, the musical director has the most “Watching them made me want to be part of an a-ca- say.” pella group too. They do a lot of modern songs and beat boxing which is really cool and different.” The Bear Facts: “As a whole, is there a favorite song? If majority of other students who viewed the program so, why is it the group favorite?” felt the same and continued to talk about the group Phalanx: “We don’t have a favorite as a whole, but as well as follow them on Facebook and YouTube. “Brown Eyed Girl” and “Good Ol’ A-cappella” are our Following the program, students were given the op- two classics. They have been sung since Phalanx portunity to meet the members of “Phalanx” and has started and have been passed down from year speak with them. However, I contacted the group di- to year.” rector, former Mahanoy Area student and participant in its music program, Nathan Shughart for more de- Bear Facts: “What piece of advice would you give to tails on their background. Nathan is presently a music young music lovers hoping to join a group like yours education major at Elizabethtown College where he as they enter college?” is extensively involved in the music program, includ- Phalanx: “College a-cappella is a great experience ing multiple choirs, bands, and the school’s dance for numerous reasons. If you do plan on auditioning program. He was kind enough to take time out of his for a group, be confident; you want to show that you busy rehearsal and performance schedule to answer are comfortable singing AND performing on stage.” the following questions about the group: After interviewing Nathan concerning the group as a Bear Facts: “When performing, do you have each whole, I asked a few questions only he could answer song down to a science or is there room to ad lib that display his personal experience as a Mahanoy during numbers?” student continuing education in college. Phalanx: “After singing songs so many times we start to ad-lib on some lines. Some members of the Bear Facts: “As a former member of Mahanoy Area’s group change their part almost every time we sing, music program in many areas, how did it feel return- however, we rehearse enough to feel the music to- ing to its stage to perform once again?” gether.” Nathan: “I had a great time coming back to perform and seeing familiar faces in the crowd. Performing Bear Facts: “The group gives off a laid-back vibe that on that stage my whole life, I felt right at home, but I think lends to the enjoyment of the performance. personally I could tell how much I grew as a singer Is the majority of your rehearsal time spent in this and performer since last being on the stage.” same manner, or is the work of perfecting your parts stressful?” Bear Facts: “Why do you think it is important to en- Phalanx: “We have a lot of fun in rehearsal and per- Mahanoy Area High School March 15, 2010 Bear Facts: “Would you like to bring your group back to Mahanoy Area again?” Phalanx... Nathan: “I wasn’t sure how the audience would re- spond to our performance, but I was very pleased to cont’d hear all positive feedback. I’m not sure what the fu- ture holds in store for Phalanx, but I would love to courage music appreciation in students?” bring them back to Mahanoy.” Nathan: “Music is such an important part of the cur- riculum and helps mold students into well-rounded “Phalanx” continued to perform at other high schools individuals. Also many schools offer music scholar- in the area following their visit to Mahanoy. The group ships to students even if they are NOT a music ma- continues to carry their love of music and message jor.” to other students. They are a joy to watch and I would encourage anyone and everyone to listen to their Bear Facts: “Seeing you do your part as a member music and support their efforts. Anyone can do so by (and leader) of this accomplished group has most accessing their fanpage on Facebook, which can be likely inspired students to strive for their goals when found by logging on to Facebook.com and search- they graduate from Mahanoy Area as well. What ad- ing the group name “Phalanx”. All upcoming show vice can you give a student about to graduate from times, the release of their new CD, and other news Mahanoy pertaining to goals within their area of in- can be accessed on this site. Their spring show will terest?” be held on April 17th at 7:00 PM at Elizabethtown Col- Nathan: “Every time we perform as a group I am lege. CDs can also be purchased in Mr. Shughart’s honored to be the music director and leader of the classroom in the high school and extra orders can be group in a performance. However, there is a lot of placed if necessary. On behalf of everyone at Maha- hard work that I do to prepare the group for perfor- noy, we are extremely grateful to have had “Phalanx” mances. Whatever you decide to do after you leave in our auditorium, and wish all of its members the Mahanoy it will definitely require hard work and dedi- best in the future. All students, faculty, and citizens cation, fortunately I felt very prepared to step into a are encouraged to view the page, support the group leadership position because of the education I got at with CD purchases, and commend Phalanx’s talents Mahanoy.” and success. A New Ball Game BY: Jenna Michaels

As most people know, Mr. Bet has retired from the po- baseball background. “I enjoy playing baseball be- sition of high school baseball coach. A new baseball cause I grew up with it in my family and also because fan was needed to step up to the plate and take on it is more of a thinking game; you have to react to the the challenge. That brave baseball fanatic is Maha- opponent and to the game,” Mr. Gerber stated. With noy Area High School teacher, Mr. Jason Gerber. Mr. seven years of coaching already under his belt, six Gerber describes how he fell in love with the game years at Tamaqua High School and one year at Cardi- when he was about twelve years old as he played nal Brennan High School, he is excited about work- catch in his back yard with his uncle. He has been ing with Mahanoy students this season and can’t playing the game ever since. When the opportunity wait to keep improving from year to year. The boys to be Mahanoy’s head coach was presented to him, it have been throwing the ball around at early morning was not a difficult decision for him to make to apply. practices and have been weight lifting in preparation He is a little nervous about taking the place of some- of the season. Since the regular season has begun, one who has done well for so many years, but with practices are held everyday from 3:00 to 5:30. With the help of two new assistant coaches, Coach Spotts the practice schedule getting even busier, Mr. Gerber and Coach Davidson, he hopes to do just as well as hopes that this hard work and dedication from his good old Mr. Bet. Coach Spotts coached with Mr. boys will take them far in the 2010 baseball season. Gerber at Tamaqua and Coach Davidson has a great Mahanoy Area High School March 15, 2010 Rhoades Never Land Is Coming To Foundation Mahanoy Area! Formed Theatre Arts Spring Production to be The James J. and Mary Edith Rhoades Foundation was found- “Peter Pan” ed in October 2008 in memory of By: Stormie Lee Kapp Senator James J. Rhoades who Peter. Wendy. Captain Hook. Tink. They’re all coming to Mahanoy Area. was unexpectantly killed in an au- The Theatre Arts spring production will open on March 19… the J.M. tomobile acident on his way to a Barrie classic, Peter Pan. local high school football game An all-star cast has been assembled, and following in the theatre tradi- where he was to be honored at tion of having a woman play the part of Peter Pan, Senior Jackie Roberts halftime. Senator Rhoades’ wife, will be stepping into the spotlight in her first leading role as the guide of Mary Edith, and children chose to the Lost Boys himself. A reliable source (me!) has had several conver- establish this foundation to carry sations with the blooming starlet about her role, including her initial fear on Senator Rhoades’ selfless spir- that she would not be chosen for the part, her fervent research into the it, highlighting his lifelong dedica- play’s roots to have a better understanding of the role, and of course, tion toward education, giving, and her earth-shattering exhilaration when parts when posted. With her flair community for years to come. for the dramatic and energetic nature, Miss Roberts only seems like The James J. and Mary Edith the natural choice for the role of Pan. But one actress alone does not Rhoades Foundation is an inde- make a show, and Director Susan Scheeler has made sure to round out pendent non-profit foundation her production with only the best supporting actors our school has to that promotes education, giving, offer: Katie McCarthy as the angelic-voiced Wendy; basketball phenom and community as a whole. It will and theatre’s golden boy, Eric Moucheron as John Darling; sophomore aim to fulfill its’ mission by - pro dynamo Doug Wells as Michael Darling, the youngest of the Darling viding educational scholarships trio; spunky Allison Amershek as the feisty Tinkerbell (a role that was to our community’s youth and ad- not performed in the original production, but has come to be common- ministering charitable funds to the place in modern theatre); the oh-so-good-at-being-bad Mike Wawrzynek ever-changing needs of our com- as the dastardly Captain Hook; lovable Bryan Wagner as Smee, Hook’s munity. right-hand man; Christina Scheeler as the lovely Indian princess, Tiger The James J. and Mary Edith Lily; Senior comedians Crista DiCasimirro and Zach Broomell as Mrs. Rhoades Foundation encourages and Mr. Darling; Freshman Shana Noon makes her high school stage education and individual devel- debut as Tootles, the leader of the Lost Boys. And let’s not forget the opment of our youth. Education, non-human characters that make Peter Pan such a hit with audiences of participation in sports, recreation, all ages. Katie Scheeler has the tail-wagging role of Nana, the Darlings’ arts, and community involvement faithful dog, and Yours-Truly will be reprising the role of the sinister and provide the necessary values and scaly Crocodile. With a cast this good and a storyline that has wowed tools for our area’s youth to learn, audiences for the better part of one hundred years, this play stands to grow and succeed. be one of the best that has come out of the Mahanoy Theatre Arts Com- The James J. and Mary Edith pany. Rhoades Foundation encourages philanthropy, volunteerism, com- munity improvement and revi- talization. Charitable giving em- challenges of our community and ly individual at the grocery store braces many different aspects, its members. or giving up your place in line to including arts and culture, edu- The James J. and Mary Edith someone in a rush. Whether you cation, environment, government Rhoades Foundation encourages can afford a monetary donation, or and social service. It will raise and you to “pay it forward.” You can a moment of your time, even the distribute funds to meet the ever pay it forward in such simple acts smallest, free gestures can make changing charitable needs and as holding the door for an elder- a difference. Mahanoy Area High School March 15, 2010

“FOR LASTING MEMORIES”

Daniel’s PHOTOGRAPHY 110 West Centre Street Mahanoy City, PA 17948 570-773-2972 Mahanoy Area High School March 15, 2010 EUROPE: Top 12: A RARE We’ve got their numbers OPPORTUNITY FOR Welcome, friends, to my annual Top 12 “American Idol” handicap MAHANOY STUDENTS column, where the following question is asked, and answered: Who’ll slog their way through this Nielsen-stoked meat market, run the BY: Rebecca Williams gauntlet of four judges, a million blogs and 100 million votes to stand up next to Ryan Seacrest in May and know they were the best? (Or at least be assured that they have the most tech-savvy fan base, expert in block text voting?) As the competition gets into high gear Tuesday night at 8 EDT on Fox, we have before us 12 singers, and the race already feels reduced to just two. Will they be the ones at the end? To our handicapping: 1. MICHAEL LYNCHE: The perfect package. Great look, story, voice, stage presence and a true showman’s sense of the possible — as well as of the impossible. He alone can make this season exciting. 2. CRYSTAL BOWERSOX: With the vocal range of a Sarah McLachlan (well, almost — but then, who does?) mixed in with the rough, hard, bluesy edges of a Janis Joplin — and a lip stud to boot — here stands one of your most interesting “Idol” finalists in seasons. (Is her health, however, an issue?) 3. SIOBHAN MAGNUS: Another finalist who seems to prove that maybe “American Idol” really does know what it’s doing. With a near-k.d. lang purity of tone and a great TV look, she could surprise everyone and Have you ever wanted to go to Eu- win. rope? That’s exactly what mem- 4. LACEY BROWN: Sort of the old soul of our little group, she’s more bers of the French/German club interesting than exciting; another beautiful voice, though one have the opportunity to do. The wonders where she’ll take it from here. It is Rolling Stone week — how advisor of the French/German about “Wild Horses”? club is Mrs. Rohart, who has taken 5. CASEY JAMES: Got an unfair rap as Kara’s boy toy, but he’s also the the French/German club to Eu- sort of singer who can and likely will go far. rope eight other times. The club 6. LEE DEWYZE: I like DeWyze a lot (and James, too), and it should be will be leaving on March 26th for fun to see him progress; his voice feels a little rough and undisciplined, nine days. The cost of the trip is however. around $2,000, but is well worth it. 7. DIDI BENAMI: Nice, clear vocal instrument but a presentation that The first four days will be spent in lacks drama or commands attention. Paris, next they will travel to Swit- 8. ANDREW GARCIA: One of the front-runners a few weeks ago, he now zerland, and finally, will spend the feels vulnerable. last two days in Germany. While 9. KATIE STEVENS: She has a lovely stage presence, but she’s out of they’re in Europe, the club will her league here. visit places like The Eiffel Tower, 10. AARON KELLY: The “cute factor” could mitigate the “nominal talent” the Arc de Triumph, and Mt. Pila- factor. But it won’t carry him to the end. tus. “I love Paris, and I’m really in- 11. PAIGE MILES: A disaster last week (“Smile”?), she might be able to terested in places I haven’t been,” salvage something this week. She has to. said Mrs. Rohart. There aren’t 12. TIM URBAN: Wouldn’t it be a delicious, told-you-so moment if Urban any teacher chaperones accom- stands triumphant in May? No, it wouldn’t be. panying her on this trip, but her Verne Gay: [email protected] daughter and a couple of parents (c) 2010, Newsday. will be going along. This trip gives Visit Newsday online at http://www.newsday.com/ students an opportunity they nor- Distributed by McClatchy-Tribune Information Services. mally wouldn’t have. Mahanoy Area High School March 15, 2010 Welcome Back Mr. Vavra, Mrs. Stone and Mrs. Wells Return For By: Brittany Davies Three high school teachers extended their summer break until the be- Sale ginning of the third marking period. Those teachers are Mrs. Wells and Mrs. Stone, who had positive reasons for staying at home longer than the rest of us and Mr. Vavra, who had an unfortunate reason for re- turning to school in January instead of September. Both Mrs. Wells, school librarian, and Mrs. Stone, environmental science teacher, stayed at home with their newborns, while Mr. Vavra was home on sick leave. Their substitutes were Miss Lambert, Dr. Legutko, and Mrs. Fallon, re- spectively. What is it like coming back in the middle of the school year instead of in the beginning? Mr. Vavra said, “The only difference was half of the year was completed, half a year to complete what I need to complete, and half a year to get to know the kids.” When asked what it was like when she first met her students, Mrs. Wells replied, “I was happy to see the eighth and ninth graders, and I was eager to meet the seventh grad- ers.” Was it difficult to not be here for the first half of the year? Mr. Vavra said, “It was difficult because I had not taken a sick day since 1986. I really enjoy my job and not coming to it was very strange, but I was pleased 2010 that the school district hired a great substitute to take my place.” Mrs. Stone missed teaching but she knew that she was coming back. “I am happy to be back, it is refreshing,” she said. yearbooks How did the substitute teachers do in keeping the students up to date See Ms. Scic in the with lessons? Mrs. Wells explained, “Miss Lambert did a great job. She was very thorough, and did great getting to know the teachers and the art room students. I would have liked to have worked with her.” Mr. Vavra said, “Mrs. Fallon asked for my advice regarding what she should cover, and Price of the book is she developed her own lessons plans.” $60.00 Mrs. Wells was greeted with lots of hellos and requests to see pictures of her baby upon her return. Mrs. Stone hopes that students will adapt Payment must be made easily to a different teacher, “I hope they find it easy because I try to mo- in full. tivate them with different styles of teaching.” Switching teachers during the school year can have an effect on student grades, but in Mrs. Wells Books from the situation, she explained how this is not a factor. “The second half stu- following years are dents never had Miss Lambert, since i teach half year courses.” Mrs. Stone will get a student teacher in March. “I look forward to helping Mr. also available Eger. It is his second high school experience of teaching. I hope my students will adapt to him as well.” 2008 - $25.00 Mr. Vavra would like to add, “I am thankful for all of the support and well wishes I received from the administration, faculty, and the students at 2006 - $15.00 Mahanoy Area. When I went through the operation it was great for my 2004 - $10.00 spirits to get so many cards and letters from the students, faculty, etc., 2003 - $10.00 hoping that I would get better and soon. It was an eye opening experi- 2002 -$10.00 ence for someone who was healthy. Luckily, it wasn’t a whole a lot worse, and I am thankful to be back. I am in better shape than I have 1993 - $10.00 been in a long time. I have not been in this good of condition since I 1992 - $10.00 coached wrestling with Mr. Wartman in the 80’s.” 1989 - $10 Mahanoy Area High School March 15, 2010

americanidolyearbook.com Mahanoy Area High School March 15, 2010 “LEARNING NEW PIZZA= THINGS” WINNING New Student Teachers at Mahanoy Area Is it enough? BY: Jennifer Lawrence BY: Robert Filiziani

Student teachers from Blooms- burg University have been teach- ing in the the high school since the beginning of the third mark- ing period. The three new teach- In November we had a pep rally ers are working in classrooms to introduce members of the win- located in the English and history ter sports teams. Mr. Holmes hallways. Mrs. Straub is teaching announced at the event that if with Mr. Tobin, Mr. West with Mr. Mahanoy sports teams overall ac- Smith and Miss Hite is teaching in complish one hundred wins during Mrs. Yakubik’s classroom. Each the ‘09-’10 school year, the entire student teacher will be with the student body would be treated to high school until May. While Miss a pizza party. His goal in offering Hite and Mrs. Straub will be with this is to motivate the students to us in the high school until the end get involved in our school. When of the year, Mr. West will move to asked if she thinks it will work, the middle school to work with Mr. Olivia Hower replied, “I think that Wiscount on March 11th, where he it will motivate us because every- will stay until May 5th. After their experiences here at Mahanoy Area body loves pizza. We also want they will receive degrees in education. the party because parties are a Each teacher has his/her own reasons for selecting teaching as a ca- great place to have fun with your reer. When asked why he chose history, Mr. West replied, “I have al- friends.” Winning in sports isn’t ways enjoyed history. My past teachers and interest in history are why the easiest thing to do. But if more I would like to become a history teacher”. With new teachers usually people get involved, and actually come new teaching strategies. Mr. Smith’s student teacher, Mr. West, is have some fun, we just might be using more technology but is following the same basic structure as Mr. able to pull it off. If Mahanoy ath- Smith. Mrs. Straub really isn’t changing much from Mr. Tobin’s teach- letes pull off this great feat, will it ing habits. She says, “I like to use powerpoints and video clips, as well change people’s attitudes towards as discussions and class activities.” Miss Hite has made some small MA sports? Mark Swokel thinks it changes from Mrs. Yakubik’s strategies in teaching Spanish. She has would do just that. He stated, “ It included new study habits by incorporating vocabulary review games would boost our confidence, and and group activities to improve students understanding of the language. when that happens, we have more When asked why she chose Spanish rather than a different language, fun and are more relaxed, which in Ms. Hite simply stated, “Other languages can be boring or hard to learn, turn helps us win more.” Joseph with Spanish you can have fun.” Swartz would like to see the ath- Overall, the student teachers seem to have a good grasp on what they letes face the challenge again next hope to accomplish. Each would like to obtain a job in the state of Penn- year. He thinks that a video game sylvania. During student teaching, they hope to get a better understand- day might be a good incentive in- ing of the students and the daily life of a teacher, as well as experience stead of pizza. So is pizza the real to develop their own teaching styles. The best of luck to our student motivator or are some students teachers Mr. West, Miss Hite, and Mrs. Straub at Mahanoy Area and be- just tired of losing? It is now up to yond. Hopefully this experience will better prepare you for your teach- the spring sports teams to accom- ing future. plish the remainder of the wins for Mahanoy. Mahanoy Area High School March 15, 2010 Mama mia! ABBA enters the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame NEW YORK — No one was more sur- fully encompass- prised about ABBA being inducted ing view that into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame we do. ABBA than the band’s co-founder Benny An- doesn’t come dersson. out of the Gersh- “We’re a pop band from the North win songbook, Pole,” Andersson says, calling from they come out his studio in Stockholm. “There’s no of the Elvis Pre- sley songbook, such thing as a (continental Euro- ABBA’s influence is more evident in pean) band in the Rock Hall, so it is the Little Richard songbook. But it’s today’s rock and pop stars. “ABBA in- flattering. It feels good, but it’s very translated through people who don’t fluenced Erasure, Pet Shop Boys and unexpected.” speak English as a first language, so Culture Club,” Weier points out. “And After all, ABBA — Andersson, Bjorn it’s no surprise that it has a little dif- they influenced Lady Gaga and Adam Ulvaeus, Anni-Frid Lyngstad and Ag- ferent feel. It’s all in there, it’s just a Lambert. No ABBA, there may be no netha Faltskog — is best known for little different.” Lady Gaga.” pop hits such as “Dancing Queen” For David Weier, vice president of pro- Perhaps more important to today’s and “Knowing Me, Knowing You” and gramming and talent for Fuse, which music is the way ABBA influenced disco anthems such as “Lay All Your will broadcast this year’s induction other Swedes to enter pop music. Love on Me,” as well as the Broadway live Monday night, it shouldn’t even These days, Stockholm — thanks to smash “Mamma Mia!” and the movie be a question. “I don’t know why they producers and songwriters Max Mar- of the same name. Andersson’s latest wouldn’t be inducted,” Weier says. tin, Dr. Luke, Rami, Shellback and oth- album, “Story of the Heart” (Decca), “These are artists that have a signifi- ers — is a music industry hub that has gorgeously runs the gamut of classi- cant body of work. ... Rock is such a built hits for everyone from Britney cal-inspired instrumentals, American thin term these days. We should be Spears and the Backstreet Boys to Songbook-styled ballads and even a looking at music in general — great Kelly Clarkson, Pink, Katy Perry and tinge of country. Big rock guitars and music.” Ke$ha. heavy drumbeats? Not so much. It’s an approach that Weier says fits “We may have inspired them by show- “Every year, there’s someone that with Fuse, as well as the Rock Hall. ing that it is possible to come from attracts attention from people who Though none of the year’s inductees, Sweden and be known throughout the aren’t happy about the choice,” says aside from maybe Genesis, would world,” Andersson says. “There’s a Terry Stewart, the Rock and Roll Hall ever be considered a Fuse artist, Wei- lot of good recording producers here, of Fame and Museum’s president and er says celebrating their accomplish- making lots of good recordings.” chief executive. “One of the problems ments on Fuse is a good fit. That includes Andersson, who contin- this year is you have the extremes “We bring music to people in a broad ues to write in his studio every day, of ABBA getting inducted and KISS fashion,” he says. “They may not be working on new music for the Benny doesn’t. I’ve answered 5,000 to 10,000 known to our audience, but we are Andersson Band, as well as bring- e-mails and letters. This issue is a there to make the connections. We ing the musical “Kristina,” which was high point this year.” bring the best of the old and new to- performed at Carnegie Hall last year, Of course, what could be more rock gether.” to Royal Albert Hall in London. ‘n’ roll than a little bit of controversy? Actually, it’s those connections that Andersson is also looking forward to What gets lost in all the Internet hub- should cement ABBA’s place in the attending his first Rock and Roll Hall bub about this year’s incredibly di- Rock Hall. Obviously, the band has a of Fame induction, along with Lyngs- verse induction class — which in- massive following. It has sold more tad, and meeting his fellow inductees, cludes punk pioneers the Stooges, than 375 million albums worldwide, especially songwriting team Barry reggae ambassador Jimmy Cliff, ranking ABBA among the world’s big- Mann and Cynthia Weil, and Jeff Bar- British Invasion stars the Hollies and gest sellers, behind only the Beatles, ry, who will be honored with his part- British art rockers Genesis — is that Elvis Presley and Michael Jackson. ner, the late Ellie Greenwich. ABBA is exactly the kind of artist the “We tried a little in the beginning (to “I very rarely get to speak to other Rock Hall needs. be a rock band) because we sort of songwriters,” says Andersson, who “ABBA, for some people, skews the enjoyed that side of music,” Anders- will be inducted with ABBA by Barry class in a direction that’s really weird, son says. “But it never worked really and Robin Gibb of the Bee Gees. “I’m but what it does is get into the ques- because we were just a genuine pop a bit nervous about it, but I’m looking tion of ‘What is rock and roll?”” Stew- band.” forward to it.” art says. “Everybody defines it per- Sometimes, the rock influences shone And for the Rock Hall, it’s another sonally, and nobody’s wrong. But few through, such as the bit of rock gui- chance to celebrate the unpredict- people really look at it with the same tar in “Does Your Mother Know.” But able. Mahanoy Area High School March 15, 2010 Schuylkill County’s VISION Could You Use & republicanherald.com $50.00 Cash? Like most things, the price of yearbooks keeps rising. In order to present……… continue giving free yearbooks to seniors who have all of their class dues paid and owe no fines, the STARRING SCHUYLKILL COUNTY yearbook staff will kick off what it hopes to be a very profitable Student Television Commercial Contest fundraiser after Easter. It will be open to every student in ninth through twelfth grades. As an Attention Students: incentive, every student who sells Produce a 1 minute commercial on what is great about your Schuylkill at least ten hoagies will be able County community (town, school, church, local group). If you had to see a movie on the afternoon to post one great message about your hometown on You Tube, what of May 6th in the auditorium. In would it be? addition, the student who sells Prizes: 1st place: $100, 2nd place: $75, 3rd place: $50 Honorable the most hoagies will win a $50.00 mentions: $25 cash prize. For students with a sibling in the high school, a total Who is eligible? Any student in 9th - 12th grade in a Schuylkill of fifteen hoagies will be required County high school or any college student in a Schuylkill County to see the movie. The staff is college or university is eligible to enter. (Send a copy of a valid school hoping to be able to sell snacks to ID with your entry). students for during the movie as How do I enter? Send a 1 minute edited CD/DVD. See Mr. Babinsky well. More details will be revealed for an entry form.cSubmissions may be hand delivered (Monday to before Easter. Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.) or mailed to: Schuylkill County’s VISION/ Commercial Contest 123 Mahantongo Street INTERESTED IN Pottsville, PA 17961 Details: TOURING ITALY *1 minute commercial *200 MB File Size Max * Accepted formats are: .avi, .dv, .mov, .qt, .mp4, .mpeg, .3gp, .asf, .wmv, .mpg AND GREECE? *Rights and clearances of those appearing on camera are the responsibility of the Entrant Members of the art club, advised by Deadline for entries: All entries must be submitted by: March 31, Ms. Scicchitano, are planning well 2010 in advance. The club is looking for individuals interested in travelling Entries will be posted on www.republicanherald. Voting Timeline: to Italy and possibly Greece in com during the week of April 13. The public will vote on entries. The the Spring of 2012. The trip will winning commercials will be announced Monday, April 19. Winning be led by EF Tours, a reputable commercials will be shown at the Sovereign Majestic Theatre during company used by French teacher, the Block of Art on Sunday, April 25. Winning entries will also be Mrs. Rohart, many times. Plans posted on the Schuylkill County’s VISION YouTube channel. are being made early enough to Questions: Call or e-mail Schuylkill County’s VISION at 570-622- provide as many fundraisers as 6097 or [email protected] with your questions. Visit www. possible to help with the cost. If schuylkillvision.com to download this information. you would like more information, *Schuylkill County’s VISION and The Republican-Herald reserve the see Ms. Scic in the art room or call right to reject any commercial that is inappropriate for family viewing. the high school. GOOD LUCK! Mahanoy Area High School March 15, 2010

4thCoffeehouse Annual May 21, 2010 6:00 - 9:00 p.m. Mahanoy Area High School Cafeteria $5.00 admission

refreshments availablesale for

Proceeds benefit the American Cancer Society Relay for Life at Mahanoy and The Rita Holman Memorial Scholarship Everyone is invited to perform and or just enjoy the talent of Mahanoy students, alumni, faculty, staff and community members. If you’re interested in performing, call 773-3443 ext 4074, see Ms. Scic in the h.s. or just simply show up!