Gym Night Color Captains Discover what Hunger Games saga fi nish their speeches 6 Shippensburg comes to life 16 has to offer 10

The Students’ Newspaper of Neshaminy High School Volume 80 Issue 6 March 28, 2012 www.playwickian.com 2001 Old Lincoln Highway Langhorne, Pa. 19047 Red Team wins picture perfect fi nish

NEWS FLASH

Neshaminy’s talented performs

On March 29 at 7:00 p.m. Neshaminy’s talent will share the stage on Neshaminy Idol. Three judges will critique the sixteen acts— bands, solo singers, small groups and a dance act— as they compete for the title. The event is run and organized by Interact and the Dance Team. All proceeds benefi t the American Cancer Society Hope Lodge and the Wet Nose Rescue. To support the cause, a towel, dog toy, dog food, or blanket will earn you a free ticket with the purchase of a $5 ticket. Red seniors celebrate after watching the red pompom fl y through the air symbolizing their sweeping exhibition victory as well as Interact wins Heroes Award the Red Team’s victory over the Blue Team. Photo/Evan Gracie By Melanie Matyi director, Amy Geruc. “Gym Night is not Coincidentally, Gardener’s most The American Red Cross selected the News Editor fi xed,” she states in response to rumors that anticipated relay, the captain’s tug-of-war, Interact Club under the advisement The drought has ended. After fi ve the ties ending Friday night’s and Saturday was one of Blue Team’s most successful. of Suzi Drake as 2012 American years of watching Blue take home the afternoon’s portions were orchestrated to “I knew we had a strong team and we Red Cross Read Heroes Award, trophy, the Red Team ended the fi fty ninth keep the show interesting. all worked as a solid unit to beat the red Community Partner Hero. This award annual Gym Night—themed “As Seen Due to other rumors from last year’s captains,” he explained. is presented to a community group, on TV”—victorious. The score board event, new safeguards were put into place Red Color Captain, Ally Prencavage neighborhood organization or local displayed the fi nal tally, 40-33 in favor this year. These included art supervisors nostalgically remembered the sophomore’s company that consistently demonstrates of the Red Team March 3. in addition to the supervisors assigned magic carpet relay because “it’s a lot of a commitment to making a difference in All three performances, Friday night, to each team’s dances. It was James fun and keeps you on your toes.” However, the community. Saturday afternoon and Saturday night, Maloney’s and Cate Romano’s jobs to her favorite part of Gym Night is right featured each grade as they worked hard randomly check up on the Blue Team’s before they do their dance. “Everyone to dance their way to earning points. and the Red Team’s (respectively) murals. gets extremely pumped up and it’s such This was the third year that freshmen They had to approve the artwork. Done a good feeling knowing all the hard work participated and the second that they to alleviate suspicion of the murals’ is fi nally paying off,” she stated. performed thrice. credibility, the effect was evident. “You Perhaps the most talked about part— However, their exhibition was only could tell they were student created and the audience’s favorite—was the red worth two points, rather than the customary drawn,” Geruc stated. “They were both senior’s guys’ portion of their exhibition. three. This point was transferred to the incredible.” The informally named, wave-o-jabba senior’s exhibition as a special square Blue Color Captain, Austin Gardener wockeez, amazed the crowd. Prencavage dancing point which was awarded to the concurred. “Colleen Gallagher is the best shed light on how this much talked about Blue Team the fi rst two performances but artist ever to walk the halls of Neshaminy move came to be. “We actually found it Interact members Caroline Crasnick, ultimately awarded to the Red Team on High School.” His compliments and (the push-up wave) on YouTube and put Janice Joseph, Kelly Larson, Kristen Saturday night, helping them to secure thanks extended to his team, “to my the idea into play. We knew we wanted to their victory. Haines and Haley Blackman (l-r) or- seniors, you guys worked so hard this have jabba wockeez masks originally, so Having participated in nine previous year and you all had the desire to win and we combined the ideas.” ganize toilletries to be sent to people Gym Nights, this was the closest Gym in need. Photo/Suzi Drake I couldn’t be happier with how we did.” Night ever witnessed by Gym Night See Gym Night Page 2

News Special Features Sports Neshaminy affi liates work Gym Night, broken down in Softball swings for States 13 together, save life 2 pictures and quotes 8-9 Op-Ed Student Life Entertainment Dance rules are unnecessary Denis Howie receives 2011 The Lorax disappointed fans and unreasonable 4 Teacher as Hero Award 7 and environmentalists 14 Page 2 The Playwickian News March 28, 2012 Neshaminy heroes use AED, save man’s life By Shealyn Miles and Lexi Rotunno Luckily, there were many bystanders and D.J. Styer ran to assist as soon as they important that the students and the staff News Editor and Expressions Editor to help. Jared Katz, musical director heard the AED alarm. know where these pieces of equipment and Neshaminy High School English Katz, connecting the AED that are,” Katz said. The heroic efforts of a team of teacher, took charge and called 911 as students had brought to him, delivered the Mark Schnitzer is the brother of Rabbi outstanding Neshaminy School District students went to alert Schnitzer’s wife. lifesaving shock prompted by the AED; Jeff Schnitzer who is the band director at teachers, students and parents helped to Several mothers were able to clear the they were instructed to continue CPR. Albert Schweitzer Elementary School. save a man’s life, on Saturday March 10. area. Maple Point music teacher Wendy Meanwhile Maple Point music teacher (If in the event someone is found After Maple Point Middle School held Robson and parents Christy Flaherty, Tobe Kris Torchia kept all of the 170 students without a pulse or breathing, it is important their matinee production of “Into the Brownstein, Deb Daughterman and Juliet calm and seated in the auditorium. to have a bystander call 911 while someone Woods,” Mark Schnitzer, sound engineer Farrell all assisted with the situation. Police quickly arrived at the scene retrieves an AED. Administering the CPR for the musical, collapsed while loading Schnitzer was checked for breathing along with the paramedics. Maple Point that is ordered, following all directions the equipment onto a truck. and a pulse, and was found completely technology education teacher and musical from the AED and 911 operators, be sure to unresponsive. Katz communicated the director Scott Cooper and Nicole Dinkins check for signs of life every two minutes. information to the 911 operator, as a few went outside to greet the ambulance Continue giving care until the person of the mothers, Monica Prizer and Kathy and emergency responders. At this time shows signs of life, the scene becomes Buszek administered CPR under the Schnitzer began to regain consciousness. unsafe, help arrives, or you direction of the operator. Paramedics removed him from the scene become too physically Several 9th grade high school students, to St. Mary’s hospital. “I felt really exhausted to continue. Luke Hellyer, Ben Matzke, Robert Clark good knowing I could help out and do Knowing these steps and Sam Brin rushed to the gym to grab something about what was going on,” could help save a life.) the AED lifepak. “At fi rst, when I heard Clark added. and saw him collapse it freaked me out. Schnitzer is now in an exceptional We were instructed to get Schnitzer’s wife condition and he passed along his gratitude and the health kit right away. Then, I was to all those who helped him in his time of in the auditorium controlling the crowd need. and keeping people calm,” Robert Clark Katz stressed the importance of said. knowing how to react in situations such Noah Schaeffer, 8th grader at Maple as these. “Using the AED was simple. Point, redirected the students to the The directions and packaging make it a lifepak in the lobby. Maple Point lead very straight forward process. If not for music teacher and musical director Nicole the AED, I am sure that Mr. Schnitzer’s Dinkins pulled the AED from the wall. chances of recovery would have been Katz’s and other’s quick thinking saves The Maple Point custodial staff, Pat Clark greatly reduced. I think that it is extremely Photo/ Courtesy of mctcampus life. Photo/Yearbook GYM NIGHT: students dance their way to victory Continued from page 1 Ohio School Shooting: The overall theme itself—“As Seen on TV”—was the Blue Team Color Captains, Gardener and Gwen George’s, idea. Upon settling the theme, the red senior captains instantly knew they wanted MTV. On the other hand, the blue seniors chose the Teen faced with life in prison History Channel “to satisfy the elders in the audience,” Gardener explained. Other channels chosen to be replicated in dance-form by the Blue Team were By Austin Bucci trying to drown against his second wife. G4, and TV Land by the juniors and sophomores respectively. The G4 dance—led Staff Writer Despite his criminal record, accounts by Captains Delaney Kusters and Tom Kreiling—featured cameos by Zelda, Mario, from his classmates say that Lane was Donkey Kong and Pac-Man. The sophomores brought to life old-time shows such Heartbreaking tragedy struck an Ohio not a violent kid. In an interview with as the Brady Bunch. high school on the morning of Feb. 27 CNN, Damien Stewart, a classmate of Red juniors, under the direction of Captains Mackenzie Murray and Steve when a student open fi red in the cafeteria, Lane, described him as a fairly good Lee brought to life various programs on CBS including Survivor, the Price is killing three and brutally wounding two student although he talked much less than Right and Two and a Half Men. Nickelodeon was presented by the sophomores. others. others. Dora the Explorer and the Rugrats among other fondly remembered shows were T.J Lane, 17 is faced with three charges “He was pretty cool. Very quiet. represented. of aggravated murder for the deaths of Nobody really talked to him. Not because Although Friday begins with the traditional separating of the colors, Gym Night Russell King Jr., Demetrius Hewlin, and we didn’t like him, he just wasn’t a talker. is a school and community building event. Geruc emphasized the not only the work Daniel Parmertor and two charges of He was very sweet, very nice, very the captains put into making Gym Night a success but also their unity. “The color attempted murder. His probable cause friendly.” captains are my go-to people. They make Gym Night run smoothly. We pick the hearing date has been set back to April 3, Freshman Jenn Chameberlin thought theme together, we’re a team.” but Lane is expected to be heard at an adult Lane’s actions were despicable. “It’s The effects of Gym Night are evident in the community as well. The Red Team court and face a life sentence in prison. horrible that something that terrible captains presented Team Chappy a $1,000 check on Saturday night. They raised Mon. March 5, Lane admitted to happened in another high school fairly some of the money at Redner’s and the rest by selling butterfl ies that they made taking a 22-caliber semiautomatic pistol to close to ours. Whether that kid had rough to all students. “The fundraiser meant a lot to me because I knew Leah for a long Chardon High School and fi ring 10 rounds life or not, it doesn’t give him a reason to time. She touched many people’s hearts and everyone was pleased to help support at random in the school’s cafeteria. kill other people. The whole incident is and donate. It was awesome,” Red Color Captain, Ally Prencavage explained. A motive is yet to be known for just very scary,” she said. In the weeks leading up to the much-anticipated Gym Night weekend, blue Lane’s actions. He did not know any of his A funeral service for Daniel Parmertor- and red captains walk the halls of Neshaminy with large buckets collecting money. victims and had chosen them at random; -a victim of Lane’s--was held on Sat. Each year the proceeds are donated to a different cause. This year the student’s however, police suspect it might have March 10. Services for the two other collections were supplemented by a donation from Chick-fi l-A earned by students been previous example set by his father victims are have yet to be announced. and community members dining there on specifi ed days. The combined earnings and his sporadic home life. Many schools across the country are still were donated to CHOP. Police reports on Lane showed that in shock from this horrifi c event. Due immensely to the efforts of Neshaminy’s community service club, Interact, he had quite a troubled childhood; both he Sophomore Angelique Geronimo a food drive was also conducted. Although not nearly as much food was amassed and his parents have had trouble with the stated, “with such a scary event that as prior years, struggling community members still stand to benefi t. law before. When he was 15, Lane was occurred, I’m surprised most schools did As evident in its longevity, Gym Night is a phenomenon like no other. It takes charged with juvenile assault for putting not immediately reinstate lockdowns and much work, time and dedication as well as many helping hands. Parents, boyfriends, his uncle in a chokehold and punching him evacuation procedures.” girlfriends, best friends, team members, teachers, administrators, artists and athletes in the face. His parents were charged with With better security measures and come together to create an unforgettable experience for all those involved. Their domestic violence against each other. counseling, hopefully incidents like this efforts are not wasted as many people enjoyed the students’ presentations. Many In 2002, after his father got remarried, can be avoided. people can continue to enjoy the presentations through a Gym Night DVD. These he was charged with attempted murder for are currently on sale for $15 by the Physical Education Department. Prencavage summed up the Gym Night experience, “It is a lot of work and you have to be committed to it, but it is completely worth it in the end. It teaches you Contract negotiation update leadership and patience which are good to have. But, in the end it’s all about having Both the School Board and the NFT have presented their concerns to the fun and believing in yourself and your team.” neutral arbitrator, Rochelle Kaplan, assigned to the work out the contract dispute. “One of the best weekends of [his] entire life,” Gardener agreed. “Gym Night is On March 30 Kaplan will hold executive sessions with the School Board’s a great tradition and so much fun for all who attend and participate.” He continued, representative Chuck Sweet and the NFT’s representative Tom Jennings. Kaplan exclaiming, “Go hard or go home!”—which is exactly what both teams did. will state her opinion as soon as possible. Because it is non-binding, arbitration can then be rejected by either side. Then the Federation can legally strike if either side rejects the arbitrator’s recommendation. If a strike impedes the ability to complete school by June 30, an injunction may be ordered. By the Board fi ling an injunction, a judge may intervene and mandate negotiation sessions. Although binding arbitration is not a part of Act 88, it can be entered if both the Board and Photo/Evan the NFT agree to enter it. Gracie March 28, 2012 The Playwickian News Page 3 district considers Students’ Health Care Consortium: advantages By Shealyn Miles of the school law and which which has been going strong for table, we feel those numbers will Successes News Editor is an employer of persons and 25 years, covering the health reduce drastically.” provides public education within insurance of nearly 18 thousand Neshaminy school district is Business Department Fifteen school districts in Bucks and Montgomery County, employees and retirees. also very interested in signing. Bucks and Montgomery Counties may become a participating Consultants have found “I personally believe that this Junior, Lauren Cautilli will representing more than 11,000 attend the Entrepreneurial school entity.” Participants may that nearly twenty different will serve as a future model to employees have entered a joint withdraw, but only when giving districts in the region have Blue help reduce costs associated with Institute at Georgetown labor health care consortium, University to focus on notice before the end of the “fi scal Cross, the coverage being the health care for our employee nine from Bucks, including the year” on April 30, on behalf of same; however the co-pays and groups,” Louis Muenker, ethical entrepreneurship and Bucks County Technical High improving her understanding two thirds of the participants. deductibles vary. superintendent of Neshaminy School. The health insurance There are several more school district said. of business operations in The goal of the consortium is the corporate and nonprofi t program states that the trustees districts that are interested in According to the NFT to get the board of directors of all of the consortium may enter any joining. president Louise Boyd, NFT is sectors in the summer of participating schools to authorize 2012. contracts for the purchase of In an article courtesy of the reviewing the documents and them to purchase health and health and medical coverage for Courier Times, Greg Moll of the speaking with the consortium medical insurance in an attempt the participants. They may also Pennsylvania State Education leaders to ensure that benefit A team consisting of Austin to lower the costs of health care Evans, Sam Kim, Molly implement other coverage such Association said, “the idea of level remains the same. “If in coverage. Grouping together in as dental and vision insurance. a consortium is something we fact our review of the consortium Lichtner, Nick Noell and a manner under one plan would Evan Pascucci earned a 6th Trustees must follow privacy strongly favor. One of the biggest will provide appropriate health reduce health care costs on regulations under the disclosure obstacles our school districts care and safeguards for our place ranking in Pennsylvania taxpayers for teachers. in the LifeSmarts Ultimate of PHI (Protected Health are facing is the overwhelming membership the NFT will look to The consortium states that Information.) cost of health care. If we can become participates,” she said Consumer Challenge which “any school district established includes knowledge of The trust is modeled after work together to address this As of now, there are no by the Commonwealth of the Allegheny County Schools issue, where both labor and specifi c answers as to if and when personal fi nance, technology Pennsylvania in the administration and consumer rights and Health Insurance Consortium, management have a seat at that Neshaminy will be applying. responsibilities.

Senior, Eric Groysman is a Romance author advises aspiring writers national semi-fi nalist for the By Meaghan Breitkreutz Q: How many books will be in the series? Young Entrepreneur Award Managing Editor for 2012. Owner of an on- A: The Transcend Time Saga is a three part series. The line business, Eric submitted Author, Michelle Madow will be visiting fi rst part is Remembrance. It’s followed by a short story a condensed business plan to Neshaminy High School on March 28. Her book, sequel called Vengeance. Concluding the saga is Timeless, qualify for the award. the fi nal novel that I hope to have out by the end of the Remembrance is the fi rst in a three part series. year. Presently she is working to fi nish the series and Art Department get two other books--both starts of two other Q: What advice do you have for aspiring authors? series--published. Seniors, Erika Emery andd A: Keep writing and keep trying. Don’t give up. Also, if Molly Lichtner both received Q: What inspired Remembrance? you’re serious about completing a novel, you can’t only Silver Key Awards from the write when you’re “feeling inspired.” You have to make A: Remembrance was inspired by Taylor Swift’s yourself sit down and focus, even if you’re not in the Alliance for Young Artists & “Love Story” music video. After watching the Writers for their outstanding mood that day. Writing a novel is work, so don’t expect video, the characters and story in Remembrance it to be all fun. work in photography. Their started to piece together in my mind. I started work will be exhibited at the to write it down, and ended up with a fi nished regional level this spring. novel! Science Department Q: What sort of research and planning went into beginning the book? The Science Club, advised by Gale Donohue, entered three A: I wanted to make sure I got the historical students into the Science details accurate, so I researched Regency Era research competition at clothing, customs, activities women did then, Delaware Valley College on jewelry, etc. Also, before I started writing the March 14, 2012. draft I created character biographies and an outline, to keep me on track while writing. Sophomores James Tuttle and Q: What do you find most difficult about Jasmin Tharakan won fi rst writing? and third place respectively in the Behavior and Social A: I wrote Remembrance when I was a junior in Science division. college, and one of the fi rst things I learned was that fi nishing a novel requires a lot of discipline. Junior Gerrard Tessier won It’s a long project with no immediate deadlines first place in the Physics and no daily schedule, so I had to learn how to division researching the make myself sit down and write every day, even coefficient of friction of if I wasn’t in the mood to do so. bicycle tires on a certain surface. Q: After writing Remembrance, what obstacles did you have to face to get it published? James, Jasmin, and A: Finding an agent after writing Remembrance Gerrard will compete at the was tough. I ended up attending the Writers Regional Fair at the Greater Digest Pitch Slam. At the pitch slam, writers Philadelphia Expo Center have to give fi ve minute pitches of their books to in Oaks, PA on April 3rd, literary agents, and agents do judge books based 2011. on those fi ve minutes. I was so nervous going into the pitch slam, but I quickly discovered that Community agents genuinely want to discover new talent. There I met the agent who ended up representing Senior, Colleen Gallagher Remembrance, and she helped me bring it to was the fi rst place recipient publication. of the “2012 Miss Irish Q: Did the characters come easily to you? Scholarship Essay and Contest.” Announced at the A: I create character biographies for all my annual Irish ball on March characters so I can get an idea of what they’re 3, 2012 held at King’s like before I start writing. These are forms I fi ll Caterers in Levittown, out from the point of view of each character. Gallagher won $500 grand They consist of things like what the character prize, participation in the looks like, the cars they drive, the house they St. Patrick’s Day Parade live in, and their favorite/least-favorite things in and attendance at the Hoolie the world. I also spend a lot of time delving into following the parade. the relationships the characters have with other characters in the story--their friends, family, boyfriends/girlfriends, etc. Page 4 The Playwickian Editorial March 28, 2012

TThehe PPlaywickianlaywickian 2001 Old Lincoln Highway Langhorne, PA 19047 www.playwickian.com Editorial Board Editor In Chief Josh Reznik

Managing Editor Meaghan Breitkreutz Dance rules: Unnecessary and unreasonable Business Editor Jon Mettus Prom season has arrived, sense and are too limiting, while teens don’t have dances like the though the seniors are. So why and with it some new rules that the excessive paperwork makes jitterbug, electric slide and others do freshmen, sophomores, and News Editors regulate the dances. In order to the process of buying a ticket a in our generation. Many students seniors have to follow the new Melanie Matyi and attend their dances, students must hassle for some students. find themselves in a situation set of district rules, when the Shealyn Miles fi ll out two forms. The age limits are unfair to where they can either dance juniors do not? The fi rst is called the Dance many students. Of course seniors how they have every year and Although it is the grade OP-ED Editors Approval form, which makes sure shouldn’t be allowed to bring have the repercussion of getting level administrators’ decision on Brielle Ballantine and that the student and their date are eighth graders to their prom, kicked out, or have a horrible whether or not the rules will be Reed Hennessy eligible to attend. The second, neither should juniors. However, time because they can’t dance set into place or not, it makes no which must be filled out and many 8th graders are 14, the age the way they usually do. sense at all. Either have the rules, Student Life Editors signed by a parent or guardian of a lot of freshmen. So why This comes up to be lose- or not; plain and simple. Christina Harman and after purchasing a ticket, is called are freshmen allowed to take a lose situation for many, causing The juniors aren’t doing Rachel Rotteveel the Neshaminy High School sophomore in college, but not a lot of people debating whether it, and neither should the other Dance Agreement. allowed to take someone their they even want to attend their grades. The rules do not make Special Features Editors The dance agreement own age? dances or not. much sense and are unfair to Katelyn Begley and explains the rules, starting with The dance rules shouldn’t Dance is a part of expression, students. Marissa Silverman age limitations, “Guests must be be a one size fi ts all policy. It’s and the students at Neshaminy While, obviously it is too late in at least Grade 9 and no older hard to apply age rules to two should be able to dance how they to change anything for the 9th Entertainment Editors than twenty years of age at the age groups that are four years want to. and 10th grade dances, there’s Tyler Kichenman and time of the dance.” apart. Every grade should have The rules were created for still time to change it for the Francesca Mancino The form goes on to state different sheets, and therefore all grades by the administrative Senior Prom. that there may be no dancing different rules for their dances. staff, with cooperation from the This unsigned editorial Sports Editors of a sexual nature “including No inappropriate dancing is district offi ces. represents the majority Samantha Pipe and grinding, thrusting, hands on the allowed at the dances. It needs However, the juniors are not view of the editorial Mason Shope fl oor, etc.” These rules make little to be understood that today’s required to sign the form, even board. Contributing Editor Juliette Rihl Advanced technologies Making our generation smarter one click at a time Literary Editor Lexi Rotunno By Erin Coyle Staff Writer Photography Editors Lauren Driscoll, Randi Durkin, We are the dumbest generation. While this statement would Molly K. Lichtner and Jess make a lot of our parents and grandparents nod their heads in Lykon agreement, the young people who are actually lumped together in this category are surprised. Archives Editor Is this a fair accusation? Mark Bauerlein, a professor at Emory Jack Haines University and the author of the book “The Dumbest Generation,” seems to think so. In his book he mentions that the information age If a Leprechaun was trying to rob you, what would Art Editors has corrupted our young minds to where general knowledge has you do? Colleen Gallagher, Kristen fallen to an all time low. In the book it also says “young people are Haines and Brad Johnson more self-absorbed, ill-informed and illiterate than ever before.” Many people don’t agree with this opinion and I am one of Circulation Editors them. Every generation seems to become smarter and with more Tiffany McMahon and technology available and more learning opportunities opening Ashley Titler up. “I think we’re a smart generation in society, but dumb when it comes to everyday knowledge,” sophomore Ashley Vespe said. Copy Editors With websites like Khan Academy, which claims on the site Aidan Coleman and to be a “not-for-profi t organization with the goal of changing Sophomore Ellie Bley. Senior Judirah Blake. Kylie Winkler education for the better by providing a free world-class education “Go get his pot of gold.” “Since I’m afraid to anyone anywhere,” This site among others help out students by of leprechauns, I’d run.” Adviser making learning easier to understand. Tara Huber Most of us belong to at least one of the many social networking What band or artist do you think is almost as bad sites, but I don’t think this is making us any less intelligent. Actually Staff Writers I believe these websites are making us more aware. Everyone as Nickelback? Alexandra Amato, Adel Atta, Selina Borden, Anna Briese, Austin Bucci, Madison Buffardi, seems to care about “Kony 2012” and that isn’t because we’ve Jessica Bussmann, Natalie Caruso, Nick Cherry, been reading about foreign affairs, it’s because we saw it on the Zach Citara, Erin Coyle, Julie Darden, Noel websites Facebook and Tumblr. Freshman Katie Welhaf says “I Dodson, Matinque Dunbar, Courtney Duncan, think with more technology comes more people that are intelligent Chelsea Dunlap, Ryan Erney, Matthew Farrell, Vincent Frazzetto, Tarek Glaze, Sarah Grudza, enough to work and control this new technology” Jackson Haines, Stephanie Harvey, Aimee Some people argue that this technology is actually making us Houser, Dana Incelli, Kathryn Kochanowicz, dumb because instead of relying on books and our own thoughts Erica Martelli, Mekenzie McClave, Caitlyn we can simply Google the information. At least now we can access McGee, Gillian McGoldrick, Madisen Ody Freshman Charles Mc- Junior Kristine Logan. , Erin Ormsby, Gabriel Ortiz, Christopher the information easily and we can be informed. No I don’t think Cullaugh. Pearson, Andrew Schweizer, Brandon Segal, we are the dumbest generation ; I think we are getting smarter with “Justin Bieber.” Thomas Sottnick, Brianna Spause, Solomiya every year. “One Direction.” Syvyk, Ashleigh Taylor, Sarah Wells, Amanda Wintz and Deanna Zigman. Awards The publication has received recognition by the Columbia Scholastic Published monthly, the student newspaper of Neshaminy High School is a public forum, with its student editorial board making all decisions Press Association in the following years - First Place: 1976, 1977, concerning its contents. The student exercise of freedom of expression and press freedom is protected by PA Code Section 12.9 and the First Amendment 1978, 1979, 1980, 1981, 1982, 1986, 1989, 1990, 1992, 1993, 1994. to the Constitution. School offi cials exercise their right to Prior Review. Bronze Medalist: 2001. Silver Medalist: 1995, 2000, 2003, 2008. The Playwickian refers to the “Associated Press Stylebook” on matters of grammar, punctuation, spelling, style and usage. No anonymous sources Gold Medalist: 1996, 1997, 1998, 1999, 2002, 2004, 2005, 2006, will be accepted. Unsigned editorials express the views of the majority of the editorial board. Letters to the editors should not exceed 300 words. Letters 2007, 2009, 2011. must be signed and of appropriate subject matter. Guest opinions, 500 words or more, will be published as space allows. Email us your comments, questions or The paper reserves the right to edit letters for grammar and clarity, and all letters are subject to laws governing obscenity, libel, privacy and disruption concerns at [email protected] of the school’s educational process. Opinions in letters or commentaries are attributed to the author. Such views are not necessarily those of the staff, nor Call us at should any opinion expressed in a public forum be construed as the opinion or the policy of the adviser or administration, unless so attributed. (215) 809-6670 The Playwickian reserves the right to refuse advertising that the student staff determines to be false, misleading, or containing unverifi able and/or Friend us on Facebook. unsubstantiated content. No ads will be accepted that promote products, services, or messages that are determined by the student staff to be inappropriate for Facebook.com/Playwickian the newspaper’s primary readers – NHS students. Advertisements that appear in the publication are not necessarily endorsed by the publication. Follow us on Twitter. Twitter.com/ThePlaywickian March 28, 2012 The Playwickian Opinion Page 5

While the Neshaminy School District may have a huge debt, student’s are skeptical as to whether selling advertisements on school grounds is a good thing. School Advertising: Is capitalism going too far or are there no limits? he halls of a school have long been intended to he Neshaminy School District should advertise be a safe haven for children to learn without the on school property as extra revenue. Budgets T influences or distractions of the outside world. T are being slashed from left to right therefore It is becoming a growing trend; however, for schools having kids’ transportation sponsored does not sound to allow their grounds to become marking sites for like such a bad idea as long as it’s saving educational commercial businesses in order to help budget deficits programs. in districts. Neshaminy School District has a $12 million defi cit These advertisements can cover the walls and for the budget of the 2012-2013 school year which means that district offi cials must fi nd a creative way to cut the Meaghan Breitkreutz lockers of a hallway, the exterior of buses which transfer Jackie Henry Managing Editor students to and from school, gymnasium walls, school Copy Editor budget. websites, and even lunch tables in cafeterias. Advertising is the solution for the Neshaminy The money these advertisements bring in would no budget. Last year Neshaminy cut tenth grade Physical doubt put a substantial dent in budget defi cits, but does the money gained justify the Education and eight grade foreign languages. If Neshaminy cannot form extra revenue advertisements effect on the students? this year, we could be looking at further budget cuts to educations programs like If schools allow a business to advertise in their schools, they are also promoting extracurricular activities, additional school closings, and staff layoffs. that particular business. In a world where the brands bought often infl uence social “A positive effect is advertising could motivate students and give them ideas about their standings, why should schools promote certain brands and inevitably encourage such future goals. It could also give us some much needed capital to improve the education judgments to be placed amongst classmates. of our students in a positive way.” Lisa Pennington said. “What the ad is showing will say something about the Park Land School district, a neighboring school school and the kids in it,” Jacqueline Shepta, sophomore, said ddistrict also dealing with budget cuts, will be making an extra when asked why the ads should not be put on buses. $$150,000 thanks to ads on their buses. The Leigh High Valley Shepta went on to say that if ads began only on buses that “Neshaminy School DistrictDistrict ddistrict will be making 75% in ad profi ts within the fi rst year. they would migrate to the hallways of the school. hashas a $12$12 million defi cit for the AAlthough $150,000 seems like just a dent in the Neshaminy “Buses are just a start. It’s tacky and once we advertise budgetbudget of the 2012-2013 school DDistrict defi cit, that money could keep after school activities on buses. It will be a slippery slope,” Shepta said. year which means that districdistrictt rrunning and keep our schools open on more days. Furthermore, school is compulsory for all children, but ““Advertising depends on where the money is going. It should that does not in any way mean that students should be forced to offi cials must fi nd a creative wayway bbe for the students and their programs.” Neshaminy bus driver be exposed to messages from marketing companies. Schools to cut the budget.” JJerry Panofsky said. should be serving the students’ needs of a good education and ~ JackieJackie HenryHenry Many people who disagree with advertising on school not allowing the needs of a company to be met, at the expense pproperty argue that there should not be soda or cigarette ads on of an education, for money. oour buses or in hallways; however, Neshaminy could control Children can be very impressionable and by allowing wwhat is being portrayed on the ads. The district could block companies to advertise in children’s schools; this exploits their aany inappropriate ads related to tobacco, alcohol, religion, and trust in schools. The impression is given to children that schools exist for the intention politics so we can limit the affects the ads have of students. of teaching them, so it is only fair to expect that children will agree with whatever is Offi cials could also keep ads from spreading to hallways or classrooms. in the school. A fact which marketing companies are smart in acting upon, but which “People want to advertise. Why not take their money? Ads are everywhere; you schools should not allow to occur at risk of infl uencing children and exposing them can’t turn the TV on without them. At least here you can regulate them.” retired attorney to commercial propaganda at their place of learning. and Neshaminy substitute Steve Rodos said. “It seems ridiculous that it is even coming to this. There must be a better way School programs are in danger of being cut. Students need extra curricular activites to fund the school district then covering our school with messages from a business,” for their futures and experience doing the things they love. If the district can earn Alexis DeGrandis, senior, said. “I’d much rather see club promotion posters and enough money to save programs by advertising on school property it will beworth it. student information on the walls then an ad for clothes or food and what not.” With so many clubs, sports, and acadmic extras like Neshaminy’s English and Math Advertisements in schools will serve not solely as a means to get money for the lab it is worth the advertising. Students deserve to keep their clubs, even if it means district, but also as a distraction for students. It is not worth the fi nancial aid that advertising on property. advertisements would bring to sacrifi ce the quality of an educational school day. In the end, the next school year is quickly approaching and with a $12 million “In my mind, school is a place separate from the rest of the world,” DeGrandis defi cit on Neshaminy School District’s plate, advertising is a great way to make extra said. “Of course we are not isolated from outside infl uence, but schools are meant to revenue. Similar schools have been sucessfully advetsing so why can’t Neshaminy be places of learning and are not meant to be used by marketers to further their own School district follow in their footsteps? It’s either we get rid of educational programs agenda.” and cut staff or put ads on our buses and property in order to save our programs. Graduation: End of year plans overshadow remaining school time underwhelming feeling felt by seniors what is in the present. Senior year is meant to be remembered to put forth full effort, even when the After 12 years of schooling, there as the time that everything seemed to individual has committed to college, is the overwhelming need to leave high come together in high school, and students trade schools, military, or the work force, school and move on to bigger and better prepare to move on to greater things and whatever the case may be. things. This attitude, claimed to be one defi ne his or her own future. “Senior year is your opportunity to of the leading reasons seniors contract the While it seems as though senior year strengthen your skills and broaden your “senioritis” stigma, has come about from is stressful now, one thing that must be experience, in school and out, to prepare a plethora of school work, and following kept in mind is that all the work now will for all the challenges ahead. A successful the same second-nature routine. only make each outgoing senior stronger By Josh Reznik senior year can help launch you on the Seniors merely want to branch out and fully prepared to face the challenges Editor-In-Chief path to a successful future.” in the world, and not have the feeling of of the world. The ever popular “Seniors Understandably, senior year is all following the same schedule, week after ’12, no regrets” has now become the new The school year is slowly but surely too bittersweet and is meant, not only week. “As much as I would like to get A’s attitude and seems to be long-lasting.g g winding down, and seniors’ are starting be the school year most remembered, it in my classes, it is hard to stay motivated to focus attention on post-graduation is, much as the prior 11 years have been, after you get accepted to college because plans. also to give the fi nal preparation needed it seems less important,” senior Amber As per the archetypical mentality, to head off to the “real world” and become Middleman said. seniors know, for the most part, their plans independent. With only about two months of school for the upcoming fall, and have begun “Everybody wants to graduate and get remaining for seniors, it is important to preparing for all the festivities that will this year over with and go to college and understand that the fi nal two months are follow graduation in June. stary studying their actual major,” senior to be completely worthwhile. While this deserved feeling is to be Emily Takhtarov said. Although AP testing and final expected and respected, one thing that While it does seem that that assigned exams will lace the remaining weeks must not be ignored is the need to continue English essay is not necessarily the top at Neshaminy, exciting events like the following a successful path to reach the priority, and it is much more important to recent Gym Night and Senior Prom will Photo/Courtesy of mctcampus.com ultimate destination, graduation. delegate responsibilities for Senior Week break up the tense academic environment The offi cials at the College Board preparations, it is again, still critically by providing a balance of entertainment put it best when it comes to the colloquial important, to put things in perspective, and excitement to enhance senior year term “senioritis,” which describes the and recognize that as for now, school is memories. Page 6 The Playwickian Opinion March 28, 2012 Fox News pundit:Liz Trotta makes an infl ammatory statement about how women should “expect” to be raped in military, blames pressure from feminists to present the news in a The Department of Defense has By Brianna Spause factual kind of way. been established in military camps in Staff Writer “I think newscasters order to protect the men and women In an appearance on Fox News on Feb. should present an unbiased kept in close contact. Trotta made yet 12, guest Liz Trotta made an extremely opinion of what is going another comment, attacking efforts controversial statement regarding the on in the world so that the by feminists to create a program to sexual assault reports of women on the public can form their own subdue the violence. front line in the military and how feminists opinion,” Junior, Kierceton “The feminists have also directed are attempting to rally their support. Keller said. Although not them, really, to spend a lot of money,” “I think they have actually discovered a newscaster, but rather Trotta said. there is a difference between men and an “expert opinion,” “The Pentagon rightly recognizes women. And the sexual abuse report says Trotta still holds the that the protections for our service that there has been, since 2006, a 64% same responsibility to be members must improve and that increase in violent sexual assaults. Now, neutral. sexual assault within the ranks must what did they expect? These people are The subject of rape not be tolerated,” Massachusetts in close contact, the whole airing of this is controversial in itself, State’s Democratic Representative, issue has never been done by Congress, without the aid of an over- Niki Tsongas said in an article with it’s strictly been a question of pressure opinionated newscaster. MediaMatters. from the feminists.” Trotta not only neglected her Fox News pundit, Liz Trotta makes a statement about how Public opinion has proved to be in Upon being given a chance to explain responsibility to be neutral, women should be expected to be raped in the military. agreement with Tsongas, as shown her statement, Trotta on Feb. 19 did not but also the responsibility Photo/Courtesy of www.foxnews.com by the uproar of disagreement ease the minds of uproarious feminists, to distinguish right from formed by many. Women should but rather condemned herself further by wrong, saying women reported abuses totaled 30,000 more than not be blamed for being raped as an criticizing the efforts of the Department should expect to be raped indicates that in 2003. excuse to not allow them to fi ght on the of Defense to control the issue. sexual assault is normal, or acceptable. Not only have the numbers of assaults front line in battle. “The political correctness infecting Just because the crime has increased of women increased, but so have that When someone makes the intense the Pentagon has resulted in silly and over the past six years does not make the of men. As the force that is sent out to commitment to the armed forces, they dishonest fairy tales about female information acceptable to mock. protect our country, there is a certain kind are sacrifi cing their time, and should be heroism,” Trotta said. However, this startling statistic was of honor that is associated with military honored for their loyalty to our country. Through her controversial statements, misunderstood. In the April 3 Newsweek forces. By presenting the statistics in Although refuted by some, like Trotta, Trotta made an example of herself, and article, “The Military’s Secret Shame”, a rather inappropriate fashion, Trotta such a loyalty should be recognized, and example of what not to do. As a public over 50,000 male veterans screened has only added to the humility of the every attempt made to protect the men and fi gure, she has neglected her responsibility positive for military sexual abuse. The situation. women who dedicat their lives to serve the United States. Gym Night speeches cut off causes discontent from captains By Selina Borden As of this year speeches were cut down to two minutes each to avoid a repeat of past Staff Writer years excessive speeches. Captains this year worked long and hard to make sure that their courtesies were As tradition in Gym Night, Color Captains are required to make opening remarks. under the 2 minute mark. However the captains did not account the audience's reactions into that time. With every speech came the excitement and encouragement from the audience and participants as a way to make them feel less nervous about speaking in front of more than 150 people, because of this, two minutes was just not enough time. Particularly for the female captains, Gwen George and Ally Prencavage, both gave their speeches on Friday night. Prencavage explains “When I got cut off from “Thank you to my family and the mic I was kind o of shocked. I knew community for all their love and that my speech had t to be 2 minutes but support. I made memories with it seriously felt like 3 30 seconds when you’re in the “When I got cut off from the moment.”m my Blue Team and Senior Cap- George sharess that “I was tains that will last a lifetime.” mic I was kind of shocked. I annoyed because I knewknew that my speech had to be d didn’t get to thank all of the people whow were apart of the three months 2 minutes but it seriously feltfelt o of gym night preparation.” likelike 30 seconds when you’re Gwen George By the reactions inin thethe mmoment.”oment.” thatt the audience saw when they ~ Ally PrencavagPrencavagee werew both cut off, Senior Blue Color Captain it was obvious that bothb were upset “I want to thank Mrs. Geruc for and annoyed when t the way DJ rudely every Friday morning, making cut them off. But it w was not only them sure we had the best breakfast. who were annoyed b by the cut off. I love all my captains and Blue “I was mad because they were the ones who put together gym night and they weren't able to say their Thank yous to the ones that helped them,” senior Jill Aaronson states. Seniors.” Being that in past years speeches would take an excessive amount of time I do understand where the time limit comes in handy, but was it fair? This year the color captains weren't even able to really thank the people that Austin Gardener mattered. In past years their peers were able to thank their boyfriends, girlfriends, and Senior Blue Color Captain those in their family that really had no put into the event. “I’d like to thank my Mom and my sisters for This year we were only able to hear what gym night taught them and what they all they did. My dad is amazing and I love him. were able to get out of the past three months before the DJ was qued to turn on the I’d like to thank my captains, they are my best music and drown out their voices to where we could barely hear the girls thank their friends and I love them too. Also everyone who own team, parents or even their fellow captains. took time helping with the mural. Last but not On Saturday night, Blue Team Color Captain Austin Gardner used his 2 minutes to least, my other half Ally! The last three years ask a special young lady to prom and ended it with fun, quick, sarcastic jokes toward have been amazing. We did it.” his own captains and his opponents in a way to thank them. But if he was giving the chance again with more time he would have "changed how fast I went, I could have taken more time to recognize more people,” Gardner Kevin Murray said. Senior Red Color Captain He also shared his agreement that “everyone being cut off was very rude because “My parents were absolutely it's a Neshaminy tradition and it shouldn't be changed just to save time.” amazing, and my sisters were great It wasn’t until Red Team Color Captain Kevin Murray and his “Co-co-Captain” supporters. I would like to thank my Hayley Rippert stepped onto the gym fl oor with one of the best ideas “well after Friday cousin Dana, of course my amazing night I knew I needed a backup plan, so my wonderful honorary “Co-co-captain” Hayley Rippert thought of the wonderful idea and brought it in Saturday night!” Murray captains and my wonderful boy- said. friend, Mason Shope.” After Murray was cut off by the music, him and Rippert decided to fi nish Murrays speech through a megaphone that was held up to the microphone. “It wasn't meant to override the system but simply just be something funny to keep the evening light hearted” Murray said. Ally Prencavage All the Color Captains did an amazing job with their speeches, whether we were Senior Red Color Captain able to hear and cherish their special moment or not. I want to congratulate them because without their creativity and determination Gym Night wouldn’t be possible. March 28, 2012 The Playwickian Student Life Page 7 ‘Move it!’ heard for fi nal year in Neshaminy By Dana Incelli After three years, it’s obvious Sladek has encountered some memorable Staff Writer moments from his days here. His favorite memory of all three years at Neshaminy High School, he said “the talent show of 2010, when I sang and played guitar to the Do you know the loudest man in the hallways? He’s not a teacher or a student; song ‘Combiah’.” he’s arguably the loudest hall-aid at Neshaminy - Earl Sladek. Sadly, our hall aide for As almost every student knows, once in a while school can get a little chaotic. three years is leaving, and starting a new life as a retired man. The life of Sladek does Sladek’s craziest moment in the monitoring profession was the bomb threat at Maple not just linger in the halls of Neshaminy High School. Point in ’09. Before he started monitoring, Sladek proudly served as a police offi cer for over Sladek has spent a big portion of his life working, and now that he’s retiring, he 25 years. After the force, he then started monitoring the halls of Maple Point Middle will have a lot more time on his hands. In his free time, Sladek plans to do “anything School. He adapted relevantly fast, and used his loud voice to his advantage. He walked I want. My wife, Barbara and I are planning to travel state side.” the halls of the middle school for eight years before coming up to Neshaminy. “Most importantly, I want to fi sh! I retire Friday the thirteenth, and Trout Season Sladek has had a variety of experiences at his job here, “I like all of the interaction starts on the fourteenth. “ Sladek fi shes everywhere, and he doesn’t have a preference. that he gets to have with the students,” he confessed. His only dislike with his job is “I fi sh everywhere…mainly the Poconos.” waking up at 4:30 in the morning. Sladek wants everyone to remember how he treated every student with respect and fairness, because he knew that everyone is good at heart, sometimes you just have Jazz Band: professional beats to fi nd it. I’ve ever had, and they’ve really stepped up to the plate”, Weiner proudly stated, “when Jazz Band is over our kids still want to keep learning and that’s really a great thing”. By Ryan Erney The students also think highly of the Staff Writer program, as evidenced by sophomore Matt Theimsen’s perhaps slightly biased The Neshaminy Jazz Band is one of the opinion: “It’s by far the greatest activity most prestigious musical ensembles a high in the school, I love everyone in it”. school student could possibly participate This year the Jazz Band has really in. Under the direction of Daniel Weiner, meshed incredibly well, as their high this ensemble rehearses twice a week, level of play would indicate. “Our greatest from six to nine on Monday and Tuesday strength is our camaraderie because we all nights. All of their hard work has paid share a united love for jazz”, senior Pat off with numerous awards won at various Cassidy explained. jazz festivals, along with additional The Jazz Band has already captured awards from numerous Move it! Move it!: Hall-aid Earl Sladek spends his fi nal days on the job in the halls competitions awards, of Neshaminy. Junior Ed DiCrecio gets a stern talking-to by Sladek before returning including with other high to class. Photo/Molly K. Lichtner school jazz best trombone bands. section, best “It’s a great saxophone Live Free fi ghts Alzheimer’s experience to section, By Brielle Ballantine be in jazz band, best rhythm Op-Ed Editor and a great section, accomplishment as well as Live Free, a non- to be selected”, plenty of profit brand started by sophomore solo awards. Neshaminy junior Dave Chris Slabicky They have Lisowski, has been seen exclaimed. also earned everywhere on shirts and The band a Superior bracelets. Lisowski came is comprised rating at a up with the idea back of students in competition, in seventh grade, which every grade which is the has now grown into an highest rating a inspiring clothing line. Living young, wild and free: Junior Dave Lisowski sup- at Neshaminy, Jazzin’ It Up: Trumpeters juniors (L to R) and the band can achieve. Because of the recent ports his self-created brand, Live Free, which donates Victoria Figueroa and Andrew King and loss of his grandfather, instrumentation Manager money to Alzheimer’s Association. Photo/Randi Durkin consists of two alto sophomore Matt Thiemsen each contribute Shannon Hazley, Lisowski is donating 60 percent of the earnings to Alzheimer’s saxophones, two their own personal fl air to the Jazz Band. junior, has a slightly high hopes. “Chris Antonelly and Jeremy Association. “When my Pop-pop recently tenor saxophones, Photo/Molly K. Lichtner lighter view of the Guth have been a major help to this died of Alzheimer’s complications, I a baritone arrangement. “It’s whole thing,” Lisowski said. “I couldn’t realized I could use [the brand] for good,” saxophone, four a great way for me have done this without them.” Lisowski Lisowski said. “He inspired me to do tenor trombones, a bass trombone, fi ve to spend quality time with my bros… has high hopes for the brand developing something big with this, so I decided to trumpets, two drummers, a guitarist, a and Emily Singer”. With hard work, new merchandise. “Our next product to start the brand.” bassist, a pianist, and a vocalist, not too impressive awards, great friendships, and be sold, if enough interest is shown will Currently, Live Free offers tee shirts mention four extremely helpful band having fun, the Jazz Band can spread joy for 15 dollars each, with two different be lanyards.” Lisowski added. They also managers. to those involved, or to those spectators designs: one just with the logo and the hope to add other items like sweatshirts, “We lost a lot of seniors last year, but who would just like to sit back, relax, and other with the logo and the Philadelphia gym bags, stickers and skateboards along this band is one of the hardest working enjoy the music. skyline. They also offer rubber bracelets with the bracelets and shirts. for four dollars each. If anyone is interested in purchasing Teacher receives Hero Award With the help of sophomores Chris any Live Free items, you can reach Antonelly and Jeremy Guth, Lisowski has Lisowski, along with the others, at their lifted the brand off the ground and into web site and Facebook page.

April 14 Junior Prom Camden Aquarium 7:00 p.m.

March 29 April 19 Neshaminy Idol Mr. Redskin Theodore Kloos Auditorium Theodore Kloos Auditorium 7 p.m. 7:00 p.m.

April 4 Rotary Club End of Third Marking Period Students of the Month 2011 Teacher as Hero Award: English teacher Dennis Howie (L) received the 2011 April 5, 6 March Teacher as Hero Award which honors the outstanding work of dedicated educators Spring Break who give their best everyday to inspire, nurture and mentor the students who are No School Jake Krause the future of our country. Former students, seniors Kristen Haines (middle right) Feasterville and Erika Emery (R) attended the award ceremony as well. Senior Colleen Gal- April 12 lagher (middle left) had nominated him for the award along with English teacher Dancing with the Faculty Theodore Kloos Auditorium Aidan Coleman and wife Jennifer Howie (not pictured), English teacher Tara Huber (not pictured), 7:00 p.m. and science teacher Lisa Krieger (not pictured). Photo/Jacob Howie Langhorne Page 8 The Playwickian Special Features March 28, 2012 March 28, 2012 The Playwickian Special Features Page 9

Gym night has a lot of anticipation throughout the school year, but the Gym Night 2012 night of gym night is when the real magic happens. -Junior Captain Tom Kreiling “As Seen on TV” Gym night is truly a great experience for anyone. There are countless memories made, a perfect time to be with your friends and a great opportunity to make new ones. To my freshman - Sophomore Captain Shelby Lins class of 2015! You guys did awesome and couldn’t have asked for a better Red juniors are a completely team! I’m so proud of you and we will different team then last year get them next year! and we looked amazing. No -Freshman Captain Cale Kitchenman matter what the judges put down in all of our minds we are winners. - Junior Captain Steven Lee

Gym night is just a really fun time because you get to make memories with your friends, while aslo making new ones. It’s also fun to see all the hard work pay off and there’s so much energy in the room, just nonstop. -Sophomore Captain Ton Do-Nguyen

“Gym night was the greatest time of my life. I’m glad I was captain throughout all of high school.” -Senior Captain Tyler Green

“Great job my red seniors! I’m so proud of every single one of you and all the hard work fi nally paying off!” -Senior Captain Kyle McClinton Artwork and Photos/Evan Gracie and Kristen Haines Page 10 The Playwickian Student Life March 28, 2012 Brandon Long shares his love for pandas and his Arachnophobia: fear of eight-legged creatures; spiders. Q: What are you scared of the times I watch it. Q: Who is your most? favorite teacher A: I hate spiders; they creep Q: What happens after you and why? me out. die? A: Mrs. Kirk, my A: After I die I just think geometry teacher. Q: Who would you like to trade everything is black. I always mess with By Molly K. Lichtner and your life with and why? Q: If you could be any animal her and tell her Sarah Wells A: Matty Mullins from the band in the world what would you she’s sad when she Photography Editor and Memphis May Fire. I just want be and why? isn’t. Staff Writer to see what it’s like being a rock A: A panda because they’re star. black, white, and cool looking. Sophomore Brandon Long loves listening to music and Q: What’s something you Q: What’s the best kind of Penguin Pride: enjoys crunching numbers. He couldn’t live without? sandwich? Sophomore Bran- always knows how to make A: I can’t live without my family, A: Ham and Cheese. don Long knows people laugh and is always they are everything to me. how to survive if messing around. Q: What three items would you ever stranded on Q: What movie could you bring to a deserted island? an island with his Q: What do you want to do watch again and again? A: 1. Survival kit backpack. before you die? A: Step Brothers, because it 2. Water Photo/Molly A: I want to go to different makes me laugh every time I 3. Cell phone K. Lichtner countries around the world. watch it no matter how many BeadforLife helps suffering, struggling in Uganda By Erica Martelli the organization and sell the bracelets in type of self awareness project.” charge of $5. Nothing would mean more Staff Writer America. All the proceeds go directly to BeadforLife all started because of to the strong and driven women in need. the women and help give the option of people who had a heart and wanted to Through it all BeadforLife holds true BeadforLife is a national nonprofi t going to college and also training them help. This is a very special organization to the statement, “Eradicating poverty organization that was inspired by the to become successful entrepreneurs. and if anyone feels as if they want to help, one bead at a time” according to www. fearless women of Uganda. Their goal “Ugandan women turn colorful you can by buying a bracelet for the small beadforlife.org. is to raise the women of Uganda out of recycled paper into beautiful bead jewelry, poverty by selling jewelry, shea butter while women in Northern Uganda gather soap, and lip balm that the women of shea nuts and press them into shea butter Uganda make by hand out of simple for cosmetics and soaps,” Thomas also things that they fi nd. added. “BeadforLife works to eradicate What this organization does is help extreme poverty by creating bridges of the women become independent and self understanding between impoverished -sustaining. The women make the jewelry Africans and concerned world citizens” in Uganda and the jewelry then brought said Special Education teacher Abbee here twice a month and it helps them Thomas. setup savings accounts and also gives BeadforLife is originated in Colorado entrepreneur training so they can open where a group went to Uganda and saw their own business in Uganda. all the poverty. While there, they saw all Thomas brought this very special the simple yet beautiful things that the organization to Neshaminy, “I thought women made. The women there don’t it would be amazing to share the joy of have the money to go to school and get a helping impoverished people. Also the good paying job. Makingi a Change: Studentsd join togetherh to hhelpl makek a ddifferenceff in Uganda.d L to students wanted to do something to help. R: Casey Binduga, Jose Borges, Ariella Lungin, Steven Lee, Dametrius Law, Holly The group decided they would start I believe that teenagers should do some Klemczak, and Nicole Scalzo. Photo/Abbee Thomas

Working with numbers: Kelly inspires students to reach out for help after high school By Aimee Houser of her favorite subjects was math, Kelly earned her Master’s Degree in Staff Writer especially Algebra. “I always liked Education at Drexel University. When working with numbers, but I had not asked, Kelly’s most memorable experience This month, the spotlight is shining planned on becoming a math teacher.” teaching was when a former student ,who on Janice Kelly. Kelly is a math teacher Kelly’s goal was to follow in her father’s had gone on to college, emailed her to here at Neshaminy who teaches Algebra footsteps and become an accountant. ask for help with some of her college 2 and Pre calculus. After high school, Kelly went on math classes. “It meant a lot to me that Kelly has been working at Neshaminy to graduate from Temple University she felt comfortable reaching out to me. I for six years. She started as a long term majoring in accounting. After college, try to make my students feel comfortable sub for a teacher on maternity leave in she started out as a staff accountant for and have them not be intimidated to ask January 2006. Fortunately, she was given a men’s clothing retailer and spent the questions.” a permanent position that following next 15 years advancing up the corporate This is an important quality in a Sept. “Math can be very diffi cult for ladder. She eventually became the teacher and is part of what makes someone some students and I like helping students company’s Director of Finance. When a great educator. Kelly is an intelligent realize they can do well if they apply her company unfortunately went out person who loves her job and dedicates themselves and work hard,” Kelly said. of business, she decided to go back to her days to helping students live up to When she was in high school, one school and pursue a career change. their full potential.

Schooling students: Math teacher Janice Sail in life at Shippensburg Kelly instructs eager students who enjoy learning in her class. Photo/Jess Lykon By Juliette Rhil Contributing Editor

Located in the rural town of Shippensburg, Pennsylvania just 40 miles from Harrisburg, Shippensburg University is a public undergraduate and graduate school known for its business program and beautiful countryside campus. At just $8,846 for in-state tuition, “Ship” is affordable and cost-effective. Shippensburg accepts 80 percent of its applicants and offers over 75 areas of study. Men’s Division II Sports: Baseball, Basketball, Cross Country, Football, Indoor Track & Field, Outdoor Track & Field, Soccer, Swimming, Wrestling Women’s Division II Sports: Basketball, Cross Country, Field Hockey, Indoor Track & Field, Lacrosse, Outdoor Track & Field, Soccer, Softball, Swimming, Tennis, Volleyball Middle 50% of SAT scores: Critical Reading: 440-530 Math: 440-540 Writing: 420-510 March 28, 2012 The Playwickian Howler Page 11

Dear Cancer,

I could ease this up and just say I hate you, but hate isn’t even strong enough. More like loathing of your existence. You kill about 1,500 people a day, and you change the life With me poetry has not been a purpose, but a passion. ~ Edgar Allan Poe of 3,500 people everyday with your diagnosis. Do you enjoy making people feel hopeless? Because you for sure have Noel Dodson gotten that one down good. I Rise and Fall may never have felt your wrath inside my own body, but I have watched it fi rst hand. You fl ip As you walk down the side walk everyone’s world upside down, on a mid- August day, you get this and barely give them a chance excitement breathing in the fresh, to put everything straight again. warm, sunbathing air. Rain starts If you think about it, you to drop bitter cold and smoothly. are a beautiful thing. Not a Beautiful fl owers turn to snow and “You’re so gorgeous!” kind of as the animals go to hibernate, birds beautiful. A beautiful chaos. You begin to sing; waking up the people continuously mutate, with no in town. The sun goes down, kids tangible explanation why. But start to wake up. The sun comes up, either way, I still hate you. No, summer nights come to an end. you don’t cause people to lose their hair or the large wounds, but they are cancer patients’ dear genetics, fi nal attempts at life. And what do you do? Try to take their I procrastinate, life, just one more time to see I’m lazy, how strong they are. I guess I I’m careless, could thank you for making me I’m cynical, just that much stronger, but I’m I have horrendous vision, not going to. When will you go I’m out of shape, away? Others tower over me in stature, Photo/ Kristen Haines Seeking Answers, I refuse to take responsibility Gillian McGoldrick for my own actions. Who’s Love? For these faults, I blame you. Jessica Bussmann sincerely, The love of one grows vinny frazzetto The love of the other withers Waking up in the darkest corners, Who’s to say what’s right? My mind bursting and throbbing in thoughts of yesterday. Why does it matter I ask, as my eyes close Howler Literary Magazine Staff slowly, And I wonder if it will be the same. I wonder why I even try but, Then I remember your bright blue eyes. Playwickian Literary Editor Fiction and Poetry Lexi Rotunno Zach Heinemann -Anonymous Mike Brunell Christian Hodge Howler Magazine Editors Editor-In-Chief Layout “Those who wish to follow me Colleen Gallagher Kristen Haines I welcome with my hands

And the red sun sinks at last into Production Submission the hills of gold Molly K. Lichtner Tayler Ruggero And peace to this young warrior without the sound of guns” ~Tupac Advisers Well, what are you waiting for? Christopher DiCicco Start by submitting your work to: R.I.P Tyheem Johnson Dan Luongo [email protected] 3/17/1994-3/22/2012 March 28, 2012 The Playwickian Sports Page 13 Softball aims for states after bitter defeat in 2011 By Vinny Frazzetto short last year but are working harder then We are working hard and hopefully it pays help lead the team just as well as last years Staff Writer ever to get there. For myself personally, I off. We still have most of our players from seniors did. As far as fi lling those spots, would like to perform better then last year last year, even though we lost key players that is where the hard work comes in; we Coming off of a 17-3 regular season at the plate, with a higher batting average. we have very good players stepping up in have some young talent that is going to record and a 22-5 overall record last year, I want to be a team leader and be more those positions,” said Quense. have to work really hard to try and play including a trip to the semifi nals of the at the same level as the seniors that left state playoffs, the girls’ varsity softball did. If they progress like I feel they can, team, led by second year Coach Dave then we should have a team that is just as Chichilitti, is motivated and hungry for good if not better than last year’s team.” more wins. The JV softball team also believes “We return a solid core of players that an improvement is looming. Third year is headlined by one of the best pitchers in coach Ed Miller said, “last year the JV the area in Lauren Quense. We also have a team fi nished 14-3 and I absolutely think crop of young talent that we are expecting we can improve that record. We’ve played to progress as the season goes on. By one scrimmage against Hatboro last week seasons end we expect to be playing our and won 16-3 and looked very good doing best softball which will make us very it...we would like each player to improve competitive in the league and beyond,” in at least one area and hopefully play said Chichilitti at the varsity level either this season or The team is motivated by last year’s next, and we would also like to sweep our loss to Hatboro-Horsham; junior Julia season series against Pennsbury.” McGovern said, “Everyone has been Both teams are poised for great years saying that our chance to win the state this upcoming season, and while the bar title was either last year or the year before has been set very high for Neshaminy that. But we simply want to prove them softball in recent years, each player wrong. We are good enough to be state believes that they can surpass the already champions and we all hope that this year high expectations set personally and for we can fi nally win it all.” the team. A big word that has been thrown “We would like to see as many fans Junior third baseman Julia McGovern catches a line drive at a recent practice as the around is “expectations,” and for the team, attend our games as possible this year as the sky appears to be the only limit in sight Skins prepare for their fi rst big game. Photo/Molly Lichner it sure to provide an exciting atmosphere both as a team and as individual players. for all who attend,” said Miller. Senior Laura Altenburger said, “This vocal on the fi eld. I would also like to have Though they lost six seniors to graduation, Since the team has been tested before season we expect to compete for the no errors. We have high expectations this coach Chichilitti is confi dent the team on the big stage that is the playoffs, league title and to be playing our best year and expect to do very well.” won’t miss a beat, saying, “I defi nitely this team is setting its sights on a state softball in June so we can win districts and Junior Lauren Quense also believes think that the 3 seniors (Altenburger, championship. The team stands ready to go for the state title. We came up a game in the hype. “We have high expectations. Knapp, and Pipe) on this years team will fi ght for the championship they deserve. Tennis gets off to 1-2 start, seniors asked to step up game By Jon Mettus are always some really tough teams that to the loss to Central Philly, and Business Editor are loaded in our league. It’s by far the “this could be a promising year toughest league in the state.” for Neshaminy tennis.” The Neshaminy boys’ tennis team Over a week into the season, they On March 20, the team took is looking forward to building off of the already have a few matches under their on Abington Friends School but success they had a year ago. With nine belt. The fi rst two of the season came was defeated, leaving their record seniors returning, they are not lacking in the form of a non-league game and a as of then, 1-2. experience. scrimmage against Central Philadelphia One of the obstacles for the “We’re a little bit of a more mature and Jenkintown, respectively. The team team will be overcoming the team this year,” said head coach Bill Bech. lost to Central Philly, but defeated loss of Alex Fioravante, who “I’m hoping to improve on what we had Jenkintown. graduated last year. “Losing done last year and bring along some of Coming out of the two matches senior Alex is a big loss; he was the the young kids to fi ll in the gaps we had Jimmy Cooper had two thoughts: “One, number three player in the state. from the kids that graduated...I expect us never underestimate your opponent no Everyone just has to step up,” to be better than we were last year. There matter where they come from,” referring Bech said. Despite not having captains, Boys’ lacrosse season starts the seniors all lead the team together. “Everyone seems to Redskins hope growing pains of last season pay off this year take some responsibilities,” Bech Tom Sottnick said. Staff Writer their starters on defense are returning, three of which earned all S.O.L honors. One of the team’s best players comes in the form of sophomore After a disappointing season last Included in those returning starters Dan Balis, but according to year in which the Neshaminy Redskins is fi rst team S.O.L selection goalie Austin Senior Sebastian Ho practices his forehand return Cooper, the senior leadership varsity lacrosse team went 4-13 and 2-8 Marshall. Last year Marshall had a 69 has had nothing to do with his in preparation for the teams next match. in conference play, the Skins are ready save percentage and will be critical to the success. Photo/Evan Gracie to bounce back and show everyone that Skins season if they are to be successful “He’s naturally better and has they can be a competitive and productive this year. “He opens up a very unique spent a lot more years playing and just go positive in the win-to-loss ratio,” team this year. demission to our team; his athleticism taking intense lessons,” Cooper said. “I Cooper said. “And a couple rounds into After coming off his first losing helps him travel up the fi eld and create don’t know if we do anything just because SOL’s.” season since his fi rst year as head coach, transition,” said Hanlon. we are older.” “Our goal is to always be on the Josh Hanlon looks to get his team back This year’s schedule is fair to say the However, “he does have some upside,” said Bech. “We’ve had years on track and to the postseason this year. least for the Skins. With both easy and pressure on him because he’s our number where we we’ve had 14 or 15 wins out of Probably the biggest reason for the challenging games, it will be interesting one player and he’s young,” said Bech. 18 matches, and we’ve had years where Skins’ bad season last year was the lack to see if the skins can win the games they “But the older kids can show him how to we’ve just barely eeked by. You go out of team chemistry. should, along with more challenging prepare and get ready for matches.” and try to win them all but if we can win “We’re more of a team this year than ones. Nonetheless, the team is hoping to more than half of them, then we’re on the last year’s team, and this is the deepest Two games that could have a huge improve from last season. “We want to right path.” team we’ve had in awhile,” said coach impact on the season overall are the last Josh Hanlon. two non league games: Central Bucks Senior captain and mid fielder West and Plymouth Whitemarsh. Andrew MacDonald also agreed with “It’s important to finish the year the coach. “We have better leadership strong and these two games could play a and team chemistry than last year,” said big role in us making the district playoffs MacDonald. or not,” said Hanlon. Aside from the lack of team The regular season is set to start chemistry, Neshaminy was also a very March 23 at Conwell Egan. With the young team last year; this year the Skins players and coaches all thinking about have a lot more upperclassmen with a redemption year, it will remain to be varsity experience, as they will start six seen if Neshaminy’s growing pains last juniors, many whom have been on the year can help them this year. With better team since they were freshmen. team chemistry and leadership, plus Coming into this year, one of the experience, there’s no doubt that this Redskins biggest strengths is that all of year should be a good one for lacrosse. Page 12 The Playwickian Sports March 28, 2012 Saints bounty program revealed, trouble in NFL By Matt Farrell was aware of it. and their coaching staff specifically. Saints General Manager Mickey Staff Writer The NFL is taking this issue extremely According to ESPN, head coach Sean Loomis for the fi rst eight games of the seriously by investigating William’s tactics Payton is suspended without pay for the regular season. They have also been fi ned It isn’t uncommon for professional and methods of coaching during his tenure entire 2012 season, making him the fi rst $500,000 and will forfeit their second- sport organizations to reward players for with the Saints as well as his tenures head coach to be suspended for an entire round picks in the 2012 and 2013 NFL good deeds or having a great performance with the Washington Redskins and the season for any reason. Drafts. during a game. However in the last Buffalo Bills. Former players of Williams Former defensive coordinator Gregg Motivation and intent for hurting few weeks ESPN has reported that the including former Redskin Matt Bowen Williams has been suspended indefi nitely other players while being rewarded with New Orleans Saints have been running and former Bill Coy Wire confirmed from the NFL. It is reported that the NFL bonuses is classless, unsportsmanlike, and a program that rewards players for the publically that Williams promoted bonuses will review Williams’ status at the end of obviously dangerous. This issue needs opposite reason. for injuring opponents. the season and will decide then whether to be handled before a player suffers life- According to ESPN, over the last Not only were players under Williams to reinstate him to the league or not. altering injury. three seasons the New Orleans Saints have encouraged to injure opposing players, been running a bounty program designed certain players were targeted and had to reward players for infl icting injuries larger bounties placed on them such as Breaking barriers: on opposing players. ESPN also reported former Arizona Cardinals quarterback Senior Kayla Rodriguez challenges the norms of a male-domi- that “‘Knockouts’ were worth $1,500 and Kurt Warner and former Minnesota nated sport, spreading positive message to athletes everywhere ‘cart-offs’ $1,000, with payments doubled Vikings quarterback Brett Favre. A source or tripled during the playoffs. Payments for the Saints close to the investigation went all the way up to $50,000 in 2009 reported to Sports Illustrated.com that Q: How do you prepare? when the Saints won the Super Bowl. “Saints linebacker Jonathan Vilma offered A: I put my headphones in and It has been discovered that the $10,000 to any defensive player that turn on my music to get in the program was run by former defensive knocked Favre out of the 2009 NFC mindset that my opponent coordinator Gregg Williams with the Championship Game.” By Mason Shope Sports Editor is just another wrestler, no knowledge of head coach Sean Payton; On March 21, the NFL brought the matter their gender. Payton however has not been discovered hammer down on the Saints, giving out Q: What motivates you to to be a part of the program although he massive punishments to their front offi ce Q: Does being a girl play? in a guy dominated The fact that I may sport give you Baseball looks to rebound have a chance to win an edge or a By Samantha Pipe This year will be an important bench against a guy in a disadvantage? Sports Editor mark to evaluate how far this team has male-dominated A: Both. come with a new coach and leadership sport. Playing with a new coach may during the upcoming season. The edge be too much for some baseball teams to [is] that my This season may be Chris Tenaglia’s Q: How did you handle, but not the Redskins. Despite opponent will fi rst as a head coach but that does not mean get started? this big change Neshaminy baseball is underestimate that he lacks the experience or knowledge A: My dad looking to have a very successful season me based on that is needed to lead a winning baseball convinced and be in contention for the league title. my gender, and team. Tenaglia has been a lifelong fi xture me to join the disadvantage of Neshaminy baseball from wrestling in is that I have to his playing days in the early middle school work twice as hard 90s to his first coaching and that it’s to get to their level. opportunity at Carl Sandburg something Middle School to his current different. Q: Any advice to other position of head coach. He Photo/Mason Shope athletes? believes that he knows Q: Who is your inspiration? A: Don’t give up. It may be male- the keys to success for his A: The wrestling team, because they dominated but [if] you work hard team. work their butts off, and my dad because enough you will succeed. Tenaglia may be the he got me into wrestling. new leader of the team but returning varsity starters what to expect from us this year.” The All of the preparation that has gone also bring much needed Skins’ plan to use that uncertainty from into this season has great potential to pay leadership and experience the other teams to their advantage. off for the Redskins. “I am excited for this to this veteran team. These Underclassmen are also poised to season,” Pfender said. “I think that we can leaders include seniors Matt be main contributors to the Redskins’ really do some damage in the league.” Sweetser, Collin Dower, and success. Juniors Justin Andrews, and With a new coaching staff and a core Drew Pfender. Tommy Kreiling and sophomore Cole of players looking to prove themselves, “It’s going to be Creighton bolster the team’s roster and the Redskins begin 2012 with optimism Junior infi elder Tommy Keiling fi elds a ground ball exciting,” Dower said. add a dynamic of speed and power to the for their season goals to be reached and a on in front of short stop. Photo/Yearbook “People aren’t going to know teams lineup. deep run into the playoffs to begin. Girls’ track prepares to take on 2012 season Volleyball builds on succcessful season After a 13-2 season in 2011, the Skins’ look to dominate in 2012 By Brandon Segal Staff Writer

The birds are singing and the weathers getting warmer, so that must mean that boys’ volleyball is in season. It’s going to be a good season with so many talented kids on both the varsity and junior varsity team, but what does the team have to look forward to this year? The team has many goals and the talent to achieve those goals. Before this season started, the team had to take fi ve days to dwindle down the 33 kids that came out for the team to the 25 total kids on the team: 12 on varsity and 13 on junior varsity. With a record of 13-2 last year, the varsity team has a lot to prove this season; plus ,they have to compensate for the loss of fi ve seniors. Junior varsity also has a strong team this year but they need to show that they are as good as last year when they won 14 out of 15 of their games. The junior varsity kids this year are sure to gain experience and be groomed into powerful and talented players for varsity next year. It’s sure to be a season packed full of adrenalin and excitement with the Skins playing their hearts out on the court,. The most exciting should be the game against Neshaminy’s rival, Pennsbury. Senior Kevin Thomas said, “Neshaminy’s volleyball team has an advantage over Pennsbury and in fact most of the teams in their league.”Pennsbury better have prepared for the Skins because they are ready to bring everything they have. The team says that they are in the good hands of their coach Kevin Roode, who Junior Emily Curtin pole vaults in preperation for the teams upcoming meet against is starting his third year of coaching. Junior John Thomas said, “(Roode) is a great leader and role model for the league rival Council Rock North. The team consists of many returning seniors who team.” It’s this kind of respect that is a defi nite sign of a team that has the potential plan to lead the team away from last year’s below .500 performance. The team looks for greatness. It’s the third year that Kevin Roode has coached for Skins Volleyball forward to a strong showing in the Penn Relays toward the end of the season and and he is right to be confi dent in both his junior varsity and varsity team. Time will looks for leadership from many different faces including junior sprinter Jess Steck- tell what this team is made of, but from this point in the season the boys are looking lein and freshman sprinter Cheyenne Oswald. Photo/Evan Gracie very promising and don’t plan on disappointing. Page 14 The Playwickian Entertainment March 28, 2012 ‘Walking Dead’ reaches season 2 demise By Tyler Kitchenman Greg Kneiss. it’s okay for them to play around with have loved the books since the beginning Entertainment Editor The show has spawned many fans the story because the lead writers on the and would love to see more of the original in the past two years and obviously fans show are also the authors of the books, story in the show. Americans love to be loyal. Loyal don’t need to read the books to enjoy the Robert Kirkman, Tony Moore and Charlie Certain major happenings were to Wizards or vampires or Loyal to teen series. But what is it like for the fans Adlard. completely written out such as the pregnancies and obnoxious reality shows, who have read the books? Many fans groups encounter with a thought to be but now things have changed. Now “Surprisingly I love what feel the show’s safe abandoned neighborhood that turned Americans are loyal to zombies. they have done with the show. story will now go out for the worse. Also the questionable The present craze over AMC’s drama At fi rst I didn’t like that they back to being relationship between Dale and Andrea has “The Walking Dead” isn’t any thing new went a different direction more parallel been completely re-written for the show. but now with season two ending this past than the books but I to the story in This display that some things will be March 18 fans are left with many new really enjoy what they the books. It’s missed while other are much better now questions. did with it,” said senior not that fans that they are changed Who was that mysterious hooded Jake Tuthill regarding the disapprove of The prison and the character character that saved Andrea in the woods? shows plot in comparison what has been Michonne are two major additions to What was the deal with the prison seen at to the books. done so far on the show’s story taken directly from the the end of the season fi nale? And how will It’s no secret the the show, it’s books. the group feel about the recently installed writers on the show have just that many Fans wait in great suspense for season “Rick-tatorship” that was made evident made many changes such fans three coming this fall. also in season two’s fi nale. as Dale and Shane’s With season two essentially bringing For those who have read the graphic surprising deaths, but the story to about the same point as the novels the recently introduced cliffhangers still fans are just end of book one, many fans worry that would pose as no surprise but the show has loving it. the show will never fi nish or reach its truly gained a following and a decent Most full potential. amount of its followers have in fact say At this rate the show not read the novels. would have to complete fourteen The season two fi nale introduced seasons just to complete what character Michonne and the new prison has been written so far, and the setting that will hopefully be the location writers claim their work is not for most of season three. done. Again this would be no surprise No one knows where to fans that both watch the show the show will go but until this and read the novels but this does fall we are all just the dead not mean it is any less exciting walking, and waiting for for any of these completely loyal season three to arrive. fans. “I watch the show every Sunday. I live by it and I can’t begin to imagine what next Season three is expected to have some of the most grotesque and disgusting zombies seen on the hit TV show yet. season will be like”, said senior Photo credit www.zombiebrew.blogspot.com ‘The Lorax’: visually pleasing, environmentally disappointing

“Construction Excellence for 33 years”

A FULL SERVICE REMODELING COMPANY By Molly K. Lichtner Photography Editor x Custom Kitchens With Designs & Cabinetry If environmentalism is your game, then this movie will make you want hang your x Exceptional Project Planning Details head in shame. The only thing that the beloved book by Dr. Seuss and this movie have in common is the fact that The Lorax “spoke for the trees”. The Lorax from the x New Home Construction book took his job very seriously with merit and strength; movie “Lorax” was pushed x Additions, Sunrooms around and didn’t stand his ground (well, technically the trees’ ground). The main character, Ted Wiggins (Zac Efron), a young boy living in the completely x Roofing, Siding, Windows plastic town of Thneed-Ville only wants to fi nd a tree to impress his love interest Audrey (Taylor Swift). The fact that the environment had been shredded to bits seemed of no worry to anyone, unlike in Dr. Seuss’ clever and opinionated book; apparently in movies, you should only do the right thing if it impresses a potential mate/lover. CALL NOW TO GET STARTED ON YOUR The movie adaptation of “The Lorax” does have two positive features: its star studded cast and catchy musical numbers. The familiar celebrity voices add a bit of NEXT REMODELING PROJECT personality to the movie and are sure to make any parents watching it smile. Danny DeVito (of “It’s Always Sunny In Philadelphia” fame) plays the title roll along with Ed Helms (known for his rolls in “The Offi ce” and “The Hangover”) as The Once-ler. Betty White also plays a feisty grandmother and turned out to be the only strong female role model in this male dominated, slapdash fi lm. As noted before, the unexpected DAVID ERVIN, OWNER musical numbers were a positive gleam in this fruitless fi lm. The producers’ reasoning behind not giving Taylor Swift her own song is still unknown. Overall, this movie is a fun trip to another colorful (but potentially scary) world. Children should love it, parents should loathe it, and Dr. Seuss fans and (215) 752 – 9103 environmentalists should boycott it.

E-MAIL: [email protected] 2 1/2 out of 5 turkeys: Join Our Family Of Langhorne Customers Photo/ Courtesy of www.pr- PA License # 000053 www.cliftonhomesinc.com log.org March 28, 2012 The Playwickian Entertainment Page 15 Diaz Dazzles: The next Bruno Mars stuns audiences with his noteworthy covers and jaw dropping vocals Diana LaPalombara. Although displays musical talent from all said. great,” Diaz said. they were not the winners, Diaz ages, and even though he did Personally, Diaz prefers to “What I love about singing had gained public affection for not make it to the next round perform hip-hip and R&B. “It’s is hitting the sweet notes and it his voice. of judging, he is proud he made my favorite type of music to really lets me express myself,” he said. By Christina E. L. Harman After Diaz’s voice became the effort to audition. “It was a listen to so why not sing it too,” Student Life Editor public his life had completely good experience. I was surprised he said. As of right now he only changed. Before he knew it he though, I was in a room with His favorite artists are Bruno records covers, but he is working In 2009 in his Sandburg was singing at prom, recording three other amazing singers and Mars, Drake, and Frank Sinatra. on original songs and is recording chorus class, junior Matt Diaz covers with seniors Hayley they didn’t make it either,” he “Frank Sinatra is a classic that music as often as he can. Diaz’s discovered a talent that would Buxton and Leigh Sheldron, and said. For his audition he sang anyone can listen to, Drake never music can be found on his change his life forever –singing. performing in Novemberfest this “Somewhere in Brooklyn” by fails to entertain me, and Bruno Facebook or on Sound Cloud. Diaz worked hard to improve his past November. “I really liked Bruno Mars. Marsars cancan mmakeake ananyy mumusicsic sosoundund new found talent and made his performing at Novemberfest, it His friends and family are his debut at the 2011 Neshaminy was a good time being able to biggest supporters of his passion, Idol performance. He sang raise money for a good cause,” but his biggest inspiration is “Come Home” by One Republic Diaz said. himself. “I keep pushing myself with junior Julia Staub and Diaz had auditioned for to be better each time I sing. I acaccompanimentcccompaniment frfromom jjuniorunior “TheThe VVoice,”oice, a TTVV shshowow tthathat jjust keepp on doingg what I do,”, he One Direction: British band journeys across seas By Katelyn Begley Makes You Beautiful,” which of people as their audience on Special Features Editor was released on Sept. 2011. NBC’s “Today’s Show” and had That song won them a BRIT a local signing at a Walmart in On March 13, UK pop Award this year, which is New Jersey last weekend. vocal boy band One Direction similar to winning a Grammy Their songs are definitely fi rst studio album, Up All Night, Award. Since the release, the meaningful to life even though came out in America. The fi ve group became the first UK the boys are just like any normal band members Harry Styles, Band, since the Spice Girls high school boy. Their goal was Niall Horan, Louis Tomlinson, back in 1997, to hit number to not be cheesy with their music Liam Payne, and Zayn Malik one on the Billboard 200 chart. but to make it fun. became popular through About 176,000 copies have “I stood four and half hours Britain’s “The X-Factor” as been sold since the release in the rain to get wrist bands to go they came in first place and date. to their CD signing,” Olylansky Simon Cowell agreed to sign “They send a lot of said. them. good messages through their This isn’t the last time you’ll “I saw them on X-Factor songs, like “What Makes You be hearing about One Direction. once, then on Tumblr and I Beautiful” is all about how a In fact, they are planning their MMatt DDiaz continues to improve talent,l so hhe can ffullfi ll hhis llifef thought that they were really girl is beautiful and doesn’t upcoming American tour, lolong dream. good and good looking,” junior know it,” senior Eva Olyansky which starts May 28. They are Photo/ Lauren Driscoll Carly Wallick said. said. also planning a debut show on The album release was One Direction has performed Nickelodeon. precededceded bbyy leadead ssingleg e “WhatW at in America in front of thousands

Apple’s at it again

By Sarah Grudza Staff Writer SPRING On March 16, Apple released its new iPad 3 in the United States. OPEN HOUSE The iPad 3 has a new retina display that makes the images Sunday, April 29 look more clear and lifelike. Having 3.1 million pixels, it has the best mobile display ever, according to the Apple web Register Now! site. www.arcadia.edu/springopenhouse “Until you see it you can’t understand how amazing it is”, stated CEO of Apple, Tim Cook, according to thenextweb. Get Your com. The iPad 3 also has a new camera called iSight. It has advanced images, a backside illumination sensor, auto white Passport Ready balance, and face detection to take better pictures. The 5-megapixel camera is supposed to take clearer images. “I’m excited for the new iPad. I think the new camera t-PYZ[@LHY:[\K`(IYVHK,_WLYPLUJL will be really cool to use,” sophomore Heather White said. In addition to the iPad 3’s amazing camera, the new device t:WYPUN)YLHR7YL]PL^ZMVYMPYZ[`LHYZ[\KLU[ZPU3VUKVU has an A5X chip for better memory. It can also connect to fast 0YLSHUK4L_PJV:JV[SHUK:WHPUHUKV[OLYSVJH[PVUZ data networks around the world, and can maintain a 10 hour battery life without being charged. t6WWVY[\UP[PLZ[VZ[\K`HIYVHKPUL]LY`THQVY “I think the battery life will be good, because I hate when (Open Doors 2011) I always have to recharge it, when it doing so many things the t3LHKLYPUZ[\K`HIYVHK battery dies so quickly,” said sophomore Karissa Murray. t;OYLL`LHYHJJLSLYH[LKKLNYLLWYVNYHTZ Apple is adding on new apps, such as iLife and iWork on to the collection. Apple’s most recent addition is sure to t;VWYHURLK\UP]LYZP[`U.S. News & World Report) inspire people all over the world.

Metropolitan Philadelphia

 (9*(+0(tHKTPZZ'HYJHKPHLK\t^^^HYJHKPHLK\]PZP[ Page 16 The Playwickian Entertainment March 28, 2012

By Ashleigh Taylor Staff Writer

In the not so distant future, the country Panem- what used to be the Unite States of America- is preparing for the annual Hunger Games. Twenty-four competitors will be chosen. Only one winner will survive. Suzanne Collins’ thrilling novel, “The Hunger Games,” tells a story about 16-year-old Katniss Everdeen and her world in District 12. Every year, one boy and one girl are chosen as tributes from each of the 12 Districts. They are forced to compete in the Hunger Games, a televised event, where they will have to survive harsh climates and fi ght to the death. When Katniss volunteers to take her sister’s place in the Games, she is rushed to the Capitol to be prepared for the limelight and possibly her death. “I am a BIG fan,” gushed sophomore Salome Tchotorlishvili. “When I fi rst read the book, it was hard to put down. I didn’t want to miss anything, and I liked the story behind it.” Like all Hunger Games fans, Salome has been waiting eagerly for the teen thriller to hit theaters. The movie, which premiered on March 23, 2012, introduces a team of skilled cast members, led by Jenifer Lawrence as Katniss, Josh Hutcherson as Peeta, and Liam Hemsworth as Gale. Each actor has been preparing and working hard to meet their fans’ expectations. “There was very different training,” said Lawrence as she discussed training and stunt doubles with The Ridge Review. “I’ve never had to learn archery, or agility, or climbing, or anything like that, and I’ve never been part of a fi lm that was so famous before it even began, and that was so weird. She [Katniss] is this unbelievable character that not only beats the game, she changes the entire game. I think she’s a wonderful character to have young girls look up to.” Lawrence’s training seems to have paid off, as she races through fi elds, climbs towering trees, and shoots a bow and arrow like it is second nature. Her role as Katniss gives off a raw, tough-as-nails personality that people love to watch. You cannot help but root for her as she fi ghts to stay alive throughout the Games. Director Gary Ross takes you through Katniss’ story, from the moment she volunteers at the Reaping, to the heart wrenching scene with Rue, to the suspenseful last seconds with Peeta and the poisonous berries. The audience watches as Collins’ world comes to life on the big screen, and pulls them along for the ride. Even the setting, other-worldly and fantastical, felt very real with the deprived population of District 12 and the ridiculously-adorned citizens of the Capitol. In Collins’ story, there is a distinct difference between how each class of society lives--one in luxury and the other in fear. Although Ross stayed pretty true to the plot of the book, hardcore fans will notice some differences between the two. Many of the injuries were under-played, such as Katniss’s loss of hearing and Peeta’s leg injury in the fi nale. In the book, the mockingjay pin is given to Katniss by Madge, the mayor’s daughter. However, in the on-screen version Katniss acquires the pin in the hub, and gives it to her sister, Prim, to offer her protection. The uprising in District 11 is unexpected, as in the book series this event happens later (in “Catching Fire”). If you watch closely enough, you will notice the muttations (enormous, dog-like creatures), do not creepily possess the eyes of the tributes who have fallen in the Games. “The Hunger Games” ties in all the elements of action, suspense, humor and a bit of romance. It is hard to believe that a tough girl like Katniss would have anything to do with love, but sure enough, she is caught in a triangle with her close friend Gale Hawthorne and the second tribute from District 12, Peeta Mellark. The bond Katniss and Peeta share in the Games gives a sweet relief in a story fi lled with violence. Along with the starring trio, other favorite characters, such as Effi e Trinket played by Elizabeth Banks, and Haymitch played by Woody Harrelson brought their fresh talents to the table. Each character is unique and plays a specifi c role in the movie. Some have a crude sense of humor, like Haymitch. Some are honorable like Cinna (played by Lenny Kravitz). And some have a hidden side that keeps the audience guessing. “My favorite character is Thresh,” said sophomore, Haley Zorger, “He’s not so tough, but compassionate. And Gale is mysterious.” Suzanne Collins’ succeeded fi rst with her New York Times best seller then by taking 155 million dollars in her opening weekend in the box offi ce. The book was captivating and dangerously addictive while the movie was enticing and kept you on the edge of your seat. It’s a wonder how screenwriter Ross will interpret Collins’ second book in the trilogy, “Catching Fire,” and what kind of surprises we can expect next time. One thing is for certain: anyone who gets caught up in the “Hunger Games” will be left starving for more.