STATE COLLEGE AREA HIGH SCHOOL NEWSPAPER THE LIONS’ DIGEST February 2016 Issue II
WHAT’S INSIDE NEWS & FEATURES OPINION ARTS & ENT SPORTS THIS ISSUE Perfect Valentine’s Gifts America’s Responsibility Spring Fashion Just Sanchez and a Tom Bucha and in Helping Refugees Bunch of Goons Kristen Miller Hannah Oleynik Abby Fortin Caycee Ohl Page 2 Page 3 Page 5 Page 7 DECA hosts Mr. State High Pageant for MDA
Photo by Becca Stroschein Seniors Mike Riley, Brennan Cornwall and Keagan Rallis perform “Love Yourself” by Justin Bieber BY BECCA STROSCHEIN went to something serious, the on a magic carpet to the song, round, where the audience Muscular Dystrophy Associa- with his rendition of the Carl- “A Whole New World” from could donate cash to the MDA On January 24th, people tion (MDA). ton, from the Fresh Prince of the Disney movie Aladdin foundation, the men were wel- crowded into the auditorium After being introduced Bel Air. while senior Justin Kurtz gave come back to the stage. Half of to see the highly anticipat- along with their escorts, the Next came the talent por- a soulful rendition of “Knock- the amount went to the overall ed Mr. State High pageant. tion of the pageant. From la- in’ on Heaven’s Door.” Junior score for the contenders. Twelve brave men stepped up modeling. Strutting, Dabbing, crosse tricks, to piano playing, The audience anxiously to compete for the crown. Al- and doing the “Carlton” were the contestants showed their place spot with the song “Last awaited for the votes to be tal- though the competition was some famous moves that won A-game. Senior Josh Rickley One Picked.” lied. After a few minutes, the light-hearted, the proceeds the judges hearts. Senior, Mike serenaded senior Ally Hughes After the People’s choice See Pageant page 2 Poetry Slams Time Is Building Up Construction gets off to a slow start
State High BY DAVID WAGNER Weakland expressed that of cars. the administration understands Construction at State High “A lot of people are upset that the longer-than-expected about the fact that they’re mak- walk is an inconvenience to students are now noticing the ing us walk all the way around, students. The routes were well effects as the second semes- yet not a lot of construction is established before construc- ter kicks off. The construction getting done,” said junior Ly- tion began, but many students rollout has caused confusion lian Wang, “We don’t see any were unaware of how much of among students who are used changes, and yet it’s just real- to how things were before the ly inconvenient for everyone.” weather would have on their process began. Some students are frustrated daily walk. “We knew what Students expected 10 min- with the construction measures the path was going to be like utes between classes to com- being implemented, especially and tried to communicate it out pensate for the longer in- because most of the construc- but until you actually walk that ter-building route, but this Photo from video courtesy of Katie Taylor tion carried out thus far has not path you don’t actually know,” Sophomore Kristina Hughes presents a humorous poem she number was determined to be 8 been visible to students. Weak- Weakland said. “Until you start wrote about homework minutes before the beginning of land said, “It’s not that nothing swimming in the water, you the school year. The administra- has been done, it’s that there’s a don’t know how cold it’s going energetic and I think it’s re- BY JOSIE KREIGER tion calculated eight minutes as lot of behind the scenes internal to be.” ally cool that teenagers can the appropriate amount of time things that you are not seeing.” Hannah Yang, sophomore, Many were “encased in the come here and express their needed to cross the street. The Junior Chris Dietz agreed admitted that eight minutes was moment,” as Eva Kreiser said, minds and not be judged. You school has welcomed new se- with Wang’s comment: “The just enough time to navigate be- at the State College Slam Po- don’t really get that a lot of curity and crossing guards and fences make it extremely incon- tween buildings. “But then you etry Competition held at the places and I think it’s real- implemented a more watchful venient when it comes to cross- don’t have time to do things like Webster Bookstore Cafe on ly cool that they have these eye over students coming and ing the road. They add a lot of go to the bathroom. But I guess January 14th. The State High kinds of opportunities,” said going during class times. Being time onto any route you want to most teachers understand,” said Slam consisted of 10 students Elana Crown, a junior at stopped by crossing guards was take.” However, Assistant Prin- Yang. Junior Kyle Marsh dis- who competed in front of a State High. Jamie Bachman, not originally incorporated into cipal Chris Weakland assured agreed, “Teachers don’t under- panel of judges by performing a sophomore at State High, this time, but the administrative that fences were a necessary stand how long it actually takes a slam poem or rap. Kristina also enjoyed the competition, body has recently requested that precaution. “Fences are there to cross the street.” Yang said Hughes, a sophomore at State - the crossing guards to try and to protect students, pedestrians, the new route does not take an High, participated in the com- self and it really makes me allow as many students to cross whoever is walking by, because petition after hearing about it think, in a good way.” at once during this time without it is a construction zone.” See Construction page 2 from Katja Krieger, one of the Although all of the poets competitors who organized were winners in the judge’s the event. “I write poems and eyes. 3rd place was award- thought why not try it? I hav- ed to Kaylah Urie, 2nd en’t been slamming very long, place was awarded to Katja Krieger, and 1st place was today. I like slam poetry be- awarded to Smith. “[I be- cause you can get really deep gan to write slam poetry] at and emotional without the the beginning of the year for whole part of music getting in my creative writing class. I the way, even though music is really like writing the rhyme really, really amazing, some- schemes afterwards, like you times you miss the lyrics in a start with writing the poem song.” and then you revise it. The Several people who were revising part is my favorite in the crowd also felt as if part because you actually they were “lifted up onto their get to focus on what you’re feet”, as Kaylah Urie said. “A saying.” Competitors’ inspi- Photo by Hanna Yu lot of the poets here are really Students cross behind construction workers between blocks 3 and 4 on Thursday January 28, See Poetry page 5 following one of the two new routes connecting the North and South buildings. Page 2 NEWS & FEATURES Issue II
BY BAYLIE CAMERON Study! As the last two marking periods unroll, wheth- C’s and D’s Oh My! Studying seems obvious but many students don’t er you have a B, want to make an A, or just want do it. Whether you don’t know how or just don’t to pass the class, here are some tricks to help you want to, studying is a skill you’ll need to possess bring up or sustain your grade: if you plan on going to college. Whether you’re Get Organized! studying for an upcoming test or just for a little It seems so useless, but organizing your materials can help clear your thoughts and better concen- trate on the material. Talk to Your Teacher Pay Attention In Class Some teachers just don’t believe in extra credit. If you do ask and they say no, try talking to them to get distracted in 90 minute classes; especially about getting some help. Most teachers will be when you have your phone and are surrounded by willing to meet with you after school or during a friends. Simply listening to what the teacher is say- free period. ing can enhance your learning by 25%. Create a Study Group! Don’t Procrastinate If you have friends in the same class or who are Some students have their own methods. “I always learning the same material, make a group chat or make sure to do my assignments right away and meet somewhere to study. It’s super fun and also take my time. This ensures that I do them well and that I remember the information correctly,” said freshman Abby English. Junior Makayla Fetzer Get Sleep! agrees, “It’s hard not to procrastinate but in the Sometimes getting a full eight hours of sleep can end it’s for the best.” be tricky when you have sports, homework, and a social life. However, balancing your schedule so Extra Credit! that you can sleep early is essential. Once you get or not, it’s so easy to walk up to them, or email them if you’re a little shy, and simply say “Hey I’m Grades are important to demonstrate your under- not happy with the grade I have and am willing to standing of material you’ve learned. However, they do extra work to raise it, do you happen to have anything I can do for extra credit?” says, remember that grades are not eternal and don’t determine your value. Best of luck this year!
BY KRISTEN MILLER been circling around online THANKFUL CARDS The Perfect Valentine’s blogs for years now, yet few people give them a try. Why again— chocolates, love, and not put together a booklet of Day Gifts for Your cupid galore! As February date ideas for you and your 14th rolls around, so do the - teupa ateu Gv aG te .c G/GCCG -NC-N people who are scrambling sonalized bucket list for couples to take on together. You can Science shows that increased Valentine’s Day. Many people include coupons to their favor- levels of gratitude coincide BY TOM BUCHA sentimental, get something resort to the classic chocolates ite restaurant, brunch café, or with increased levels of hap- you and she have in common ice cream shop. Make a list of or from her past. These are activities you both like such as other a series of notecards that time of the year: Valentine’s some things you can get for you are in a romantic relation- riding roller coasters, playing highlight your favorite things Day! Some struck by the love that special lady out there. ship, whether it be in the ear- frisbee golf, or going swim- about them. Record their phys- arrow, others left behind sitting All you ladies out there, ly stages or fully developed, ming, and jot them down on a ical attributes, character traits, in their room eating ice cream here are some things to get show your special someone sheet of paper. After that, orga- or unique quirks that you are and crying, hotels booked, for that man of yours: food, what they mean to you by try- nize these date ideas into cate- thankful for. They will feel restaurants packed, you know two tickets to an event, or just ing some of these easy ideas! gories, like chapters in a book. even more grateful to have you it’s February 14th today. And you being with him. People When you and your partner go in their lives, when you remind as always, presents are expect- try too hard with gifts; if you CARD OR LETTER on a date, place a checkmark them how grateful you are to ed on Valentine’s Day. look through him and really next to that idea. Try to com- have them in yours! You can - know what he likes, or may- plete them all! even decorate these cards with ing of gifts, here are a couple be he doesn’t know he wants little doodles. ideas for her: something per- it, that’s when you know HOME-COOKED MEAL it’s the perfect present. Two Sure, fancy dinners are nice SCAVENGER HUNT These gifts have more mean- tickets to an event is a good - and the ing than just as objects stuffed gift because not only are you vious, but many people forget food can be there with him, he also gets to delicious, a card to show their apprecia- in a couple’s relationship, and show you off and enjoy him- but nothing tion. Of course, it’s easy to get how much you know about self at the same time. For the compares to the job done with ninety-nine food gift–not very hard–just a well made, cents and a trip to Hallmark, a t seGv aG te .c G/GCCG -NC-S - make something homemade home cooked but use your imagination! ers, and picked by yourself. that you know he loves, and meal. Even Sit down with a map, a pencil, Grab some markers, crayons, if you’re not and some creativity to make As for jewelry, get something that she’d wear every day so or colored pencils, and be an elite chef, your partner a scavenger hunt All in doubt, being with him creative. You could even cut that every time she sees the you can still whip together a de- this Valentine’s Day! First off, is enough because all your up old magazines to make a piece she thinks of you. Some- licious masterpiece with stellar man really wants is to be with thing personal could apply to presentation. Think of a type of want to give this adventure, and you all the time. Ladies, here you aren’t that into visual rep- any present you get for her. - the resources you have avail- are a couple hints for what to resentations of your love, try ian, American, Chinese, Span- able to you. For example, will get for your man. writing a longer, more senti- ish, the possibilities are endless! this escapade take a few hours, Next, search the web or a fam- or all day? Do you have access past memories, how they in- to a car, or will you have to sexual inequalities that young walk? Are you doing this hunt Pageant women can encounter,” said care about them. in the kitchen, look for more ad- with your partner, or will you be From page 1 High becomes something that DATE PACKET you’re a beginner, stick with the these questions are important to winners were announced. Se- the whole school comes fa- basics. To prepare the best pre- consider before diving into the nior Mike Riley took the 1st miliar with so that the under- sentation yet, place a bouquet of planning process. Make sure runner up spot, while Junior classmen now and for years you choose the destinations, Yoder took the 2nd runner up to come feel that becoming entree into a heart, and include a formulate the clues, and deter- the next Mr. State High is a yummy treat for dessert. - cial someone will surely love spot, making him the new Mr. goal they aspire for.” ! e s a C eat s.c Gv a te .c G/GCCG State High. embarking on a scavenger hunt Kurtz worked a lot on his this Valentine’s Day! talent portion, playing “Knock- in’ on Heaven’s Door.” “For struction information can be 30 to 40 new parking passes Construction found online, many students on February 5th to juniors with been learning how to play the From page 1 do not feel well informed about extenuating circumstances, the guitar and multiple people in- future construction plans. Some last passes planned to be given cluding Megan, my best friend excessive amount of time to said they wanted the adminis- out this school year. Matt, my brother Dale, my ag walk, but that her true frus- tration to communicate their On February 3rd, large teacher Mr. Heasley, Andy my tration was the number of stu- plans better to the students. trucks arrived at the South park- guitar teacher Mr. Robinson dents crammed onto the tiny “The school has not kept us well ing lot to start demolition of the have put up with me spend- path. “There are a lot of peo- informed,” said Marsh. Weak- South Building, starting with ing ample time playing,” said ple, and not a lot of walking land acknowledged the discon- what was previously the South space,” said Yang. Weakland nect between the administration Building’s ramp and continuing explained that the “path meets and students and has plans to with the South courtyard. or exceeds the minimum re- broadcast weekly construction Because of demolition, stu- quirement. Even though it is playing in front of an audience reports on the WSCH morning dents with classes in the South tiny, it’s purposeful. Student conveying my passion.” announcements. He also sug- Building can expect some ad- travel will probably be the gested that confused students ditional disruption from the After the winnings were standard for the next couple reach out to the administration construction. According to announced, all the contestants or check the school website. Weakland, classrooms located and escorts joined around the worse.” “Phasing, all of the plans, it’s near demolitions zones will ex- piano to sing, “Don’t Stop Be- Costanzo said that he un- perience quite a bit of noise and lieving.” DECA vice-president derstood the administration’s the public and everyone can get perhaps even some vibration. Megan Reese announced the motives, but wanted to see it,” said Weakland. “We’re going to have to re- wonderful news that $2309 them take a different ap- Efforts have been made to establish new norms for our- had been raised for the Mus- proach, “The school needed accommodate students as op- selves. Sometimes those new cular Dystrophy association to be rebuilt, hands down, but tions become available. For ex- ! t Gb G eccaGSt sc e it could be run much more ample, even though all student Mr. State High is a great way Se G ust G u töGstadsGw t G successfully.” Though some parking from this point forward be something we’re all going to to raise awareness for chari- öu GMegaGR e Gafte Gbe gG emails were issued to students will be restricted to the North have to work through.” table organizations and the c w edGM .GStateG g and teachers, and some con- parking lot, the school issued Issue II OPINION Page 3 America has a responsibility to let refugees in BY HANNAH OLEYNIK ic. The Paris attacks sparked a not a practical security measure. does not want these people erful than for the United States fear in many people; the Islamic - to leave. They want to recruit to become a leader and turn “Give me your tired, your State’s power suddenly reached ing violence and oppression (of more and more people (and the tables on the Islamic State? poor, your huddled masses beyond the Middle East. Many which 50% are children) may their argument against the west What can send a stronger mes- yearning to breathe free,” reads politicians and pundits were be violent oppressors in dis- is more compelling when many sage and contradiction to their the plaque inside the Statue of quick to place the blame for the guise is not practical: it comes western nations deny entrance message of hate, than one of Liberty, which, from 1892 to attacks on refugees, but six of from a place of fear and igno- to the Syrians) and to punish compassion? 1954 welcomed twelve million the seven terrorists were French rance. The legislation passed by those that have strayed. ISIS Accepting refugees will not immigrants to the United States. cause ISIS to enter the United These immigrants, whose de- States, and it will not create a scendants make up about for- disbalance in American culture ty percent of Americans, were (this is a nation built on im- migrants, after all). As junior political, religious, and racial Hannah Youmans said, “It’s persecution. the right thing to do.” It is the Following the terrorist at- right thing to do, and we can tacks in Paris on November 13 not turn our backs on these and the December 2 shooting in people simply because they California, the refugee debate were born in Syria. Five days in the United States has become after the attacks of his nation, more and more controversial. President Hollande of France Over thirty state governors said “30,000 refugees will be immediately pledged that they welcomed over the next two would not allow Syrian ref- years. Our country has the duty ugees to settle in their states, to respect this commitment.” and Congress passed a bill France is not turning its backs that would require refugees to on the refugees, and the Unit- pass strict background checks, or Belgian citizens (the nation- Congress is hateful xenophobia wants the world to fear these ed States must not either. The which are expected to delay the ality of the seventh terrorist is being elevated to the law of the people. The Islamic State wants United States must honor our entrance time for refugees by still unknown, but it appears land. It may have the goal of to spread their message of hate tradition of being a beacon of an additional two years, on top unlikely that he entered Bel- keeping terrorists out, but in the and evil, and by denying the en- hope to the hopeless. We must of the eighteen months that the gium as a refugee). end it only ostracizes the refu- trance of innocents on the basis take ISIS’ challenge to cower in United Nations requires. However, there is no “quick gees. fear, and instead extend a help- This denial of entrance to By making the refugees “the ing hand to those they hurt. refugees seems to be an easy the entrance of refugees (who other”, are we not giving ISIS - option to a worldwide epidem- exactly what it wants? ISIS lence, what can be more pow- The Truth About Homeschooling BY JACKIE FEFFER friends are our siblings and we they just want to try a different never get out of the house. We can learn at their own pace approach to schooling. I was homeschooled for the play on sports teams with other which is not a privilege that Homeschooling can actual- earlier part of my life. I started kids, hang out with friends, etc. they can get at school.” going to school for one class in When people interact with me, Finally, not all homeschool- students in many different fourth grade. By sixth grade, I they can’t tell that I used to be ers study at home because they ways. Margaret Rothrock, a se- was up to half days, and now, homeschooled because we’re are super religious. According nior here at State High, used to I spend most of the day here the same as every other public to a survey by National Center be fully homeschooled. “Ho- at State High. But despite my school student. for Education from 2012, about meschooling has been helpful !"#$#%&'%()*+,-%.-//-0 integration into public school, Despite popular belief, ho- 65% of parents chose to home- to me because it taught me I still vividly remember my meschoolers work pretty hard. school to “provide religious how to manage my time wise- homeschooling years. Percep- We don’t sleep in until noon instruction” for their children. ly even without due dates or tions of homeschooled kids and then just do whatever we While this is the majority of grades, so I’ve learned to work across America vary, but there want. Many of us have sched- homeschool students, there is effectively and consistently.” had been in public school.” are some myths I would like to ules, daily lesson plans, and still the other 35% of students Caitlin Jones, a junior, was Students at State High may debunk: I have a few things to curriculums that we are re- who are not homeschooling for also homeschooled as a child. or may not have a negative clear up concerning what peo- religious reasons. Maybe they She said, “I got to spend a lot view of homeschooling. How- ple think about homeschooling year. Carline Crevecoeur, a feel like their school system of time travelling for long peri- ever, hopefully after reading versus how it actually is. homeschool teacher, agrees isn’t right for them. Maybe ods of time that let me be more this article, people can see ho- First, let me say this. Ho- that homeschooling is actually they have an illness or condi- immersed in other cultures and meschooling for what it actu- meschoolers are not socially quite rigorous. “Yes, home- tion that prevents them from let me experience things that I ally is. awkward. It’s not like our only schooling is hard work. But going to public school. Maybe might not have been able to if I
THE LIONS’ DIGEST True Friendships: Girls vs Guys State College Area High School, 650 and 653 Westerly Parkway, State College, Pennsylvania 16801 BY EVEE SARKISSIAN EDITORIAL STAFF Meeting new people and creating new relationships is Co Editor in Chief: Hannah a part of daily life. When peo- Nelson and Hanna Yu Business Manager: Rebecca ple truly become friends with Stroschein another person, it often seems Publications’ Advisers: Sarah like unbreakable bonds are Rito and Rebecca Thorsen made. Sadly though, some- times those friendships end, CONTACT through falling out or through Location: Room 154 South any other number of reasons. Telephone: (814) 231-7740 This raises the question: which Email: [email protected] gender has stronger friend- ships? Friendships between Lions’ Digest is product of the boys, or friendships between Journalism classes of the Pub- girls? lications Department at State Students at State High have College Area High School. Li- ons’ Digest is funded by business differing opinions on which advertisements and is printed by gender has better and/or stron- The Center Daily Times. ger friendships with each oth- er. Xander Brewster, a sopho- Lions’ Digest aims to produce more at State High, thinks that accurate and complete content girls have closer relationships !"#$#%&'%120)%3)4) made to correct and clarify er- than guys. “They [girls] share roneous or misleading material. their emotions with each other, said, “I think there’s more dra- Friendships between girls are it’s easier to break relation- Corrections, comments, ques- and guys don’t do that because ma between girls, girls care much more personal, but guys ships, too.” tions, and all other communica- they’re afraid that they will tion with Lions’ Digest in general about more things, and over- tend to last longer. Guys don’t The students interviewed look weak,” Brewster said. “I should be directed to the Lions’ think a lot.” care about drama and popular- at State High generally seem Digest newsroom. There was a general agree- ity like girls do, so they tend to to think that girls have stron- other more though; they hold ment among those interviewed ger relationships with each grudges, whereas guys will get that girls are known for being For the most part, the fe- other, but that they also don’t Send us your work over something in a day.” more emotional and concerned. males interviewed agreed seem to last as long and are or give us feedback! The other males agree with Certain people consider these with the males about having - The Lions’ Digest encourages all this general idea that girls have traits to be annoying or bad, more emotional and deep- ing with one another. Some readers to submit cartoons, guest closer friendships but that more but they may also contribute to er friendships, and also that people think that, in these columns, and letters/emails to - better relationships. Freshman they easily argue and bicker friendships, the good out- the editor. Writers must provide more Andrew Gustafson said, Abby English said, “Gender with each other. Sophomore weighs the bad. Truly though, their, full name, grade (if appli- cable), date and email address. roles have taught guys that they Chloe Krasnansky said, “Girls boy or girl, a person has to They can overthink the littlest Letters are limited 250 words, can only talk about sports and can become best friends with decide whether they are will- things. Guys are not as active and guest columns 600 words. girls, whereas girls share deep each other within minutes, ing to go through “thick and with our brains. We don’t jump Upon submitting your work, it things with each other and get bonding over a common ha- thin” with their friends, and to the worst possible outcomes becomes property of the Lions’ to know each other on an emo- tred or interest. There are so if they’re ready for the long Digest, and therefore is subject to like girls do. We let things go tional level. As girls we are many things to relate with, ride or not. editing for space and journalistic a lot easier.” Luke Hurley, an- much more verbal with each with girls. But because we style. The Lions’ Digest reserves other sophomore at State High, other and communicate better. make friendships so easily, the right to reject letters. Page 4 OPINION Issue II Survey shows students have mixed opinions about PDA
BY ABBY FORTIN more PDA is seen in the South where everyone around them building, the large percentage can see.” As someone who How far is too far? In a re- of people who don’t know or feels there is a PDA problem at cent survey regarding Public State High, Brungo expressed, Displays of Affection (PDA), seen in the graph below, makes “It makes me feel uncomfort- 72% of the State High students drawing a clear conclusion dif- able and it’s unnecessary. You who responded said that they will literally see them after draw the line at making out. It are noticing the affectionate your next class…wait until you is common to see PDA, espe- hugs and kisses shared be- are out of school.” Regardless cially making out, all around tween their peers, most don’t of students’ views, PDA tends the school. see it as a problem. 64.8% of to interfere with the educa- According to the 2015-2016 the surveyed students said tional endeavors of bystanders Student Handbook, Public Dis- that they do not think there is and the partakers themselves. plays of Affection are a level a PDA problem here at State Mrs. Saylor, a Social Studies High. Sophomore Thalia Stout teacher said that “it makes kids as “inappropriate intimate does not think there is a PDA uncomfortable and distracts behaviors on campus or at problem at our school. “All the couple themselves.” That school-related events.” Exam- I see are people kissing, no being said, both teachers and ples of inappropriate intimate making out or anything crazy,” students have noted that Pub- behaviors given in the hand- she said, “It’s no problem to be lic Displays of Affection occur book are prolonged hugs, kiss- worried about.” Senior Reaney around the school every day. ing and groping. Regarding Brungo has opposing views. the amounts of PDA at State “It’s annoying how people is too far? High, junior Emma Lusk said, feel the need to do stuff like “I see it in the halls…It’s a lot this [PDA] in a public setting of kissing and hugging for odd amounts of time in the middle of the hall, which affects the While it is a known fact that PDA often occurs in the hall- ways, it’s hard to determine in which building it is more often displayed. While it seems like
The Grid No hesitations. Just honesty
Say hello to And the Oscar Describe your Use one word What will you I would give up Watch me whip, the Seniors goes to.... ideal Valentine’s to describe 2016 do if Donald _____ in ex- watch me... Day gift so far Trump becomes change for no president? more winter?
The Bear. Oscar winning perfor- A bouquet of mance right there. Is Canada an Ank it up! Trust Smashing Donald Trump Sorry Leonardo, option? me, it’s a thing of chocolates. Ankur Choudhary better luck next @AnkTheMan87 year.
Chocolate, Flow- ers, and Cash. All Leonardo Have him rep My unused snow in hopes of it being Fast Nae Nae DiCaprio. Dolphin Apparel pants given to me by a Nathan Woodman girl. @NateWoodman
. Take it as a great White people A date Dynamic excuse to move to Hot chocolate Throw out my back Italy Anna Hirsch @annaHirsch
If Donald Trump My ideal valentines became president, gift is a sincere Leonardo I would most likely hand written card Awesome NO DiCaprio move to Mexico and a quality pizza, and change my with pepperoni. name to Jesús.
Simply peonies (my He’s a great busi- Umm not sure, I My brothers Dre roses, not choc- ness man that can Absolutely awe- love winter and and Tommy olates or jewelry get us out of the Nayyy Nay some snow. It’s so majes- Friberg for ballin or anything in [p] trillion dollar debt Caroline Friberg tic and pretty articular like that the US is facing @ceefriberg
CHEERS & JEERS to the success of the Mr. State High Pageant. to the fries in the cafeteria. Soggy, cold, and DECA raised about $3,000 for the Muscular unsalted fries are not something we want. Dystrophy Association. Way to go! to all of the fences around the South building that make to H&M coming to downtown State College and expect- crossing the street take double the time than it needs to take. Could it be any harder to cross from the North to the highly demanded brand right in our hometown. South building to the lab sciences being every other day in the new semester. We’ll miss the regular comfort of seeing our to the lack of snow days, delays, and early dismissals; we science teachers every day, but less homework is another want more days where we can sleep in and leave school way to keep our stress in check. early. But this is not to dismiss the teachers who are be- hind in their classes and need this streak to continue... seem to be loving the new cappuccino, cookie dough, to the classes that are behind schedule, and all of the teachers who are freaking out. We feel your stress! Issue II ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT Page 5
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BY JAMIE CLAAR I had the privilege to be in this ple will come: the next class ous year, which was surpris- joyable and fun not only for us, awesome program that taught starts. At this point we actually ing, to say the least. The man but those who come and rock I remember being in 7th me so much about music, my- in charge of Rock Ensemble, out at our performances. Since grade and watching my brother self, and others. It’s a really of organization. What goes on Robinson, said, “The Rock up on stage with his Rock En- special opportunity to be able in Advanced Rock Ensemble is Ensemble concert was excel- my freshman year, these peo- semble class and at that point to play music as a group in unknown to us unenlightened lent, it showed a great amount ple have been nothing but kind I knew what I wanted to do. school.” folk, but I imagine it’s much of musical maturity among the and generous to me. Back then, The Rock Ensemble class of A usual day in regular Rock like watching angels sing, as players, and was very well or- our concerts were nowhere State High, to which I am a Ensemble, which I might’ve in not chaotic and beautiful. ganized.” Senior Joe Caldwell, near as big as they are now, somewhat-proud member, pro- mentioned I am a part of, con- But we did get it together at a member of the Advanced and I am happy that we have vides a refuge from the stress sists of a 20 minute set-up of the end just in time for the An- class, said, “It was the most been able to grow as much as and discontent of being in this the equipment followed by nual Winter Rock Ensemble exciting concert yet. It was the we have . I hope we can one prison, or as most people see another 10 minutes of people Concert, thanks to James Rob- best audience, not just in size day grow enough for our Ad- it: school. It’s secluded home showing how great they are at inson. but in terms of reactions.” It vanced members to actually of room 38 North, lets us be playing “Stairway to Heaven” One dim light in the North was indeed Joe, it was indeed. get advanced credit, kind of ourselves and focus on the all at the same time (thanks Building on the only snowy First timer and resident En- like Choir. But thank you, all things that matter most, music Bear). By this time we usually day in January, the 22, signaled glishman, Jon Taylor, sopho- you who listen to our noise and or mainly ourselves. start the songs we’re actual- to all that the annual Rock En- more, said, “It was really fun. you who sing and play those We, as musicians love our ly going to perform, currently semble Winter Concert had be- I really enjoyed it. I enjoyed sounds. work and camaraderie almost that’d be “Rudie Can’t Fail” gun and with it a welcome to as much as we love ourselves. and “Rock the Casbah”. By paradise, which I kicked off. (electric bass) instead of being Kristen Nodell, junior, said, this time, since the class is ac- The crew and I had performed in the audience.” “Rock Ensemble was a real- tually two short classes and, a litany of songs, ranging from In all seriousness, I love ly cool environment to be in. apparently, people have better the classic vibe of the Beatles working with all of these great There are so many talented things to do, many of the peo- to the twisted harmonies of people and have nothing but musicians in this school. You ple have left the class for study Muse. The crowd had more the utmost respect for them, just have to look for them, and hall, but as people leave peo- than doubled since the previ- and I think what we do is en-
Poetry Spring Fashion Recommendations From page 1 BY ABBY FORTIN sands of variations in color ly come handy. Yet as we all wear shorter shorts and either tion comes from a variety of and design online and in stores know, April showers bring May a long sleeve t-shirt or polo. aspects of their lives. “I mean It may seem as if Winter pretty much anywhere. Long sleeves and shorts is [my slam poetry is] mostly only just started, but Spring I mean the rain that comes in 10/10 comfort.” TJ Maxx, about me being sad all the is already on its way. With the Although they’ve been around February through basically the Gap and other department time so I write about that unpredictable State College since the early years of warfare, entire summer. Investing in a stores are good places to look which is kind of personal. I’m weather, even with the ground- military-style jackets are still good waterproof rain jacket at for guys’ polos and shorts. not really a comedy writer,” hog’s prediction, it’ll probably in, even if you aren’t a soldier. is really important and some- When speaking of the long- said Hughes. Smith had other be May before we can stop The classic olive green color is times overlooked. There’s al- sleeve and shorts duo, Horne areas in which she pulled her wearing jackets to school. a basic staple piece that many ways that one kid who has to says “You can’t go wrong.” ideas from, “basically, I rant Whether you’re a boy or a girl, girls already have, but this cross from South to North on Many guys agree with Horne a lot, and whenever I feel a it’s important to dress for the spring, consider branching out the rainiest day of the year and that what they wear in the particularly strong rant com- weather. and buying a navy blue or kha- ends up getting soaked because Spring doesn’t differ much ing on I just write everything ki military jacket. Not only are of a lack of a waterproof jack- from what they wear in other down.” For girls: they stylish, they’re also the et. Don’t get caught in the rain seasons. All in all, slam poetry has perfect weight and material for without a good rain coat or at taken State High by storm. Tall Hunter rain boots were the early days of Spring when least a good umbrella. North The turnout at the State High all the talk in Spring 2015, but it isn’t quite warm enough to Face brand has a wide array Spring fashion may not be Slam Poetry Competition and they’re not the only boot that wear a jacket but a down coat of rain gear, typically ranging appreciated by all, but if you the quality of slam poems at will protect your feet from the would be too much. Madewell from $100-$200, however, like to dress for the weather rain. This year, try a sleek- has a version of this timeless places like Target has some and look good while doing new sensation. Teachers and er version of the classic boot style for $118, but it can be around $50. so, consider also looking many students encourage and pick up a pair of “Chel- found in many other stores. online and seeing what the others to begin writing their sea”s. Like your regular rain Prices typically range from For guys: latest trends are... But as al- own poetry. “It’s very fun boot, they’re perfect for dreary $25 (TJ Maxx) to the mid-hun- ways, you’ll never go wrong and I feel like everyone who days with a chance of showers. dreds (J.Crew). Regarding guys’ Spring fash- just sticking with the advice wants to do it should do it be- This pair by Jeffrey Campbell ion, it is a lot similar to winter here. cause it’s never not fun,” said is available for $55 at Nord- For chillier spring days, a mil- and fall’s styles. Junior Dylan Smith. - - Horne says, “I usually just Another Slam Poetry event was held on January 28th at the Schwab Audito- rium. Mayhem Poets per- formed and many students to watch the show, includ- ing sophomore Katherine Groves: “I really liked it be- cause I’m not really a huge poetry slam [person] but the way they performed it made it more of a performance and made it more involved. I also really liked how they made Jeffrey Campbell Ralph Lauren The North Face Madewell what they said really relevant ‘Stormy’ Rain Boot (Women) Featherweight Mesh Shirt Men’s Venture Jacket Fleet Jacket to us.” Page 6 ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT Issue II BY HANNA YU ists. They usually don’t dance, AND ANGEL ZHENG focusing more on their voice and lyrics. “You Don’t Know For most Americans, Love” by K. Will and “Heav- recent years, the number of PSY is the only Korean art- en” by Ailee are both ballads ist they know, and if there’s you should check out. K. Will with origins in underground - - beyond “Gangnam Style”, it ular ballad singers in Korea. might be just “Gentleman,” - - “Hangover,” and the latest ing songs have the ability to damentally, can a music that “Daddy.” Yet modern Korean make you feel calm. Ailee’s originates from the inner cit- music goes so far beyond the commonly known crazy songs. urbans struggles of African For a guide into the abyss of her to be the Korean version Americans ever be legitimate exciting new grooves, here are - - er notable artists are Davichi, er members of Drunken Tiger, Poster catchy K-pop song These songs are what you drama soundtracks (not an art- ist but still worth mentioning). - they are totally mainstream, R&B still able to maintain their style - catchy. They are also often - - of music. If you are searching tronic music, lounge, and acid - - for something calming to lis- ten to, you should try Akdong and catchy song with grooving iconic songs come from this fully attaching themselves to category, including “Gee” by the genre, while artists who - Girls’ Generation. The song was released back in 2009 and it is known as one of the most It’s evident from the list well known Korean songs. Electronic that, like many other coun- Indie artist with a distinctive voice Korea’s electronic scene tries, Koreans have been in- - that makes him stand out In Korea, there are indie may often be combined with tegrating western elements among other singers. His sin- artists and artists who make other genres under the above electro beat in the background. indie-like music. K-indie tends term K-indie, but it is a music their own styles with the trends emotional song about his rela- to be an umbrella term for ev- distinct on its own. Even with- - most colorful mainstream in itself, as with all electronic ern music comes in numerous growing from a child into an - music, it has a lot of variety. varieties, Korean music has tronic musoc, but here we’ll been growing in genres. Six - omit those. “Comes and Goes” been gaining ground the last few years. Even though the music is extremely broad, we Taeyang trio tries very hard not to bind Hyukoh’s songs has both a themselves to a genre, many of in each genre, and some things Ballad Rap unique sound and vibe to them. their songs can be described - Although some Korean - as electro rock or indie dance, - the age-old question of legiti- - ty with the mainstream songs, macy, and no different is it in tice. Listen to the energetic their style and subject are Korea as it is in America. For - under one of the biggest music is Clazziquai Project, which all ballad singers are solo art-
BY GILLIAN O’NEILL showcased that becoming fa- mous so quickly at such a angsty destructive teen to a With his new album Pur- young age is not as amazing teen heart throb in just a few pose, - as it’s made out to be. At the gain most of his original fan he got better. Late last year, base back and more. Freshman it. Freshman Anna Garban was discovered through his - at a crowd of teenage girls. bum, Purpose, which has sold - day one and now I just love Very soon after, he was arrest- - mous I didn’t really like him or ber’s largest sale in one week. his music, but after listening to made a huge comeback and hearts of many with his good This caused him to lose a lot of looks and talented voice. like him.” However, the media has Interview with the Artful Ally Ellis
BY JAMIE CLAAR each other. Ally Ellis, junior, carries on this tradition of hu- the students at State High. She What made you decide to start of doing art? From the dawn of time, hu- man nature. Currently enrolled came over to Lions’ Digest to making art? I mentioned earlier, art is mans have used art to convey in the Delta Program, Ellis’s talk art and her beginnings. their feelings and emotions to “I’ve always loved creating. When I was little I would sit me through some tough times and has allowed me to start to hours on end. Then, as I got What is your medium (materi- - al)? ously considering art as a ca- “I’ll work with anything and everything. I love working -
tic, collage – you name it. For - a while, however, I’ve been titions? “I haven’t, but I’ve had my art at the HUB, and I had a show Do you have any other hobbies other than art? “I “I’m to music. I’m in a band called - literature, and other artists. I also love reading and I love channel my emotions. It’s be- - come so much more than a
Who’s your favorite artist? - chasing art can reach her at al- “It’s so hard to choose, but [email protected]. Anyone I’ve recently become interest- so by following allyellisart on Instagram.
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BY CAYCEE OHL ed to take a year off. When skills improving, he also start- freshman year came along, compared to everyone else ed to make friends within the has such a unique bond that - team as well. Freshman year, - High lacrosse player, took up nity to participate in three di- he wasn’t very good at all, but he and his friends Andy Ma- side of lacrosse. the sport only in 9th grade. De- verse spring sports: lacrosse, somehow he made the team. ter, Rian Scanlon, Robert Hort As the lacrosse season is track, and his original favorite, “There must’ve been some- and Ryan Romero formed a - beforehand, his lacrosse skills baseball. He said that baseball thing in me that Coach King “clique” known as the “Goon cial start for the 2016 year he have grown as he has made started to become a bore to him Squad.” The group was formed is preparing physically along friendships and learned to love and he wanted to try something - when they noticed during their with his team members. “The the sport. new. “Lacrosse seemed ap- freshman year of lacrosse that team and I work very hard in pealing to me and I thought I’d playing offensive short stick they were always warming the the weight room and on the baseball since the fourth grade. to defensive long stick. He benches of varsity games and When he moved to State Col- Lacrosse tryouts rolled and his coaches could both see only played in the last quar- lege from Chicago before the quick improvement that ter. This continued throughout eighth grade, he wasn’t sure had picked up a lacrosse stick just a little bit of practice can which baseball teams were was the day before tryouts. achieve. a little bit more playing time. available to him so he decid- In all probability, he had the Not only were his lacrosse “We’re just a bunch of goons,” Indoor Track Stays on Track Despite Hurdles
BY HANNAH OLEYNIK but their practices do not take a full indoor track available 25 runners in the state,” said “My friends and I are always place in the gym; rather, they Rohrbach. encouraging each other and With the chilly weather and run throughout State High’s - laughing and trying to think blustery wind, lots of athletes hallowed halls. Hurdlers jump peats,” said Rohrbach. motivation may be, the team of ways to make the workouts head into hibernation when the in front of the North auditori- With cooler temperatures has managed to overcome the somewhat enjoyable.” Rohr- winter sports season begins. um, and sprinters race one an- and less sunlight, it can be dif- obstacles of competing in the bach credits the team’s suc- Basketball, wrestling, and other past the Chemistry and grimness of winter. Last year, cess during the season to her swimming athletes all head Physics rooms. Relays even the motivation to get out of teammates as well. “For meets, inside as soon as November practice their handoffs down- bed in the morning. For indoor states in seven different events, I rely a lot on my teammates hits, and they stay inside until stairs in the Social Studies track athletes, however, winter and took home three top-eight and coaches for support prior, warm weather comes again. wing. “During the indoor sea- and all it brings does not keep during and after my races and However, here at State High, son, we have to constantly be them from attending practice looking forward to reaching I think that a lot of the girls on indoor track is a winter sport everyday. “The motivation those standards again, through our team would say the same with more diverse practicing use of space,” said head coach continued support among the thing.” facilities. Jennifer Evans. “We have a and training inside with dust teammates. Rohrbach said, Though called indoor track large group to manage, but our or stale air or outside with the coaches are very resilient in cold and ice or snow,” said Ev- refers to where competitions using space or the lack thereof ans. are held. While the athletes effectively,” said Evans. Rohrbach works to moti- have their home meets at Penn Sophomore Nick Feffer vate herself by setting similar State’s indoor track facili- - goals for both indoor and out- ty (with away meets at other door seasons. “A lot of us still nearby universities), practices, - try to aim for what our person- especially for distance runners, nitely the air- it’s really dry al bests were during the out- are often held outside. and makes your throat hurt at door season. Right now I am Sprinters, hurdlers, and meets,” said Feffer. Junior Jor- working towards meeting the pole vaulters do not run out- di Rohrbach agreed. “It is hard 800 meter qualifying standard ! t # #R e t#V s# CC/ ck side the majority of the time, to train because we don’t have which is a 2:22 time or the top ç #t ck# t etes# t#St te# g #f ce# #v et # f#c e ges. Page 8 SPORTS Issue II Chloe Krasnansky, Volleyball Star
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BY EVEE SARKISSIAN her to wear a different col- or uniform. To be a libe- Sophomore Chloe Krasnan- ro, Krasnansky has to have sky of the State High volley- excellent passing, digging, ball team has put her heart into quickness, and consistency. playing since the 6th grade. Krasnansky’s position is a “I started playing the sport as big responsibility, especially something to do after school, when playing as a freshman but it has turned into so much and sophomore. When stress more,” Krasnansky said. gets to Krasnansky, espe- In addition to playing cially before a big game, she on the middle school team, and then moving on to State positive. “I’ve found that if High’s team, Krasnansky is I over think something, or also involved in club teams. let my nerves get the best of Krasnansky participated in me, my state of mind will be rigorous Penn State training a mess,” Krasnansky said. camps which prepared her for “The best thing that I can do the season. “When you com- is put a smile on my face and mit yourself to something you think positively. It’s amazing love, training doesn’t feel like how a good attitude can im- work anymore. I knew I was prove your playing.” BY JACKIE FEFFER AND going to stick with the sport Krasnansky believes this JOSIE KRIEGER when I would get excited to go to practice everyday,” said many people. It just shows Krasnansky with a grin on her that with hard work and posi- face. tivity, people can accomplish Krasnansky made the high amazing things. Make sure school team in 9th grade, and to get out and support Chloe plays as the libero, or the out- and the rest of the team next side back. As the libero, she volleyball season. never leaves the game or ro- tates like the other players. This position also requires Is Football Dying Out?
BY LAUREN MATHEWS still pretty dangerous but people are trying to make Football is one of the big- play safer by changing the gest sports in America. Watch- rules.” ing football on the weekends On the topic of football with friends and family is a dying out, sophomore Loren- lifelong tradition for some. Yet zo Soto said, “Yeah I think it as studies reveal the severity is; kids keep getting hurt and and quantity of health risks for football players, a new ques- Sure you’re wearing pads and tion is beginning to surface. Is it’s safe but when you throw football dying out? As many recent studies are person’s face you make other showing, the rates of concus- kids not want to play.” sions and injuries are increas- Especially for the NFL ing. Worried parents are think- players as their football ca- ing about taking their children reers are short and dangerous, is playing this sport worth it? too many blows to the head, in- Assistant Head Coach and juries are possible. State High JV head coach Mr. Baney sophomore football player believes, “If proper tech- Drew Friberg notices, “I think niques are being taught and it has changed a little bit. It’s practiced and protocols have been put in place, then con- cussions are and can be in- frequent.” Playing football in college or high school is one of the most popular sports the school has to offer. Run- ning side by side with your best friend after practicing in your backyard for years is a dream many people have. On the other hand, since football is a massively popular sport, don’t worry just yet.
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