Mete r Chronicle Produced by the students of the Montrose Area Junior/Senior High School Volume 24, Issue 4 Montrose Area March 2009 This INSIDE Issue: McKelvey’s Legacy Lives On By Tatim Brace, Opinion editor In spite of the November death of areas who would normally be unable Andy McKelvey, creator of to attend college financially. Monster.com, the McKelvey The McKelvey Scholarships have Foundation, which he founded, has changed over the years. Applicants awarded five scholarships to college- no longer have a face-to-face bound seniors at MAHS. interview, and the application process For Nathan Hollister, Hannah is now done online. Kathleen explains Cronk, Nikky Finch, Abbey Hewitt and that the process consisted of an Kathleen Luecke, the McKelvey Internet survey involving quite a few Scholarships mean less of a financial short essay questions. The McKelvey burden for college. Scholarship also offers extra finances High schoolers teach Lathrop “Any scholarships in general are for students who would like to travel Street students online safety. great, especially for people in this abroad. For more elementary news, area.” Hannah says. “The scholarship says a lot about turn to. . . The McKelvey Scholarships have our students with all the winners we’ve Page 4 been given out since 2001 and are had throughout the years. It’s a great available to a number of participating opportunity for families.” Mrs. schools in , New York and Ohmnacht says. West Virginia. Application Kathleen would like to attend requirements include a grade point Wilkes and has already been accepted average of at least 2.5 and an to King’s College. Nikky would like to involvement in work and/or attend Westchester College but is extracurricular activities. Recipients currently torn between a few options. must also be the first generation of Hannah was offered a scholarship their family to attend college, and they from Bloomsburg University where Second marking period Out- must attend a four-year college in their she plans to major in chemistry. standing Students include home state. Geena Bistocchi/Meteor Chronicle “I was really excited when I won. I (from left) eighth graders According to guidance counselor Seniors Kathleen Luecke (left), Hannah Cronk, Nathan Hollister wanted to go to school in New York, Aimee Cutri and Daniel En- Mary Beth Ohmnacht, Mr. McKelvey and Nikky Finch are the college-bound McKelvey Scholarship but it’s a lot of money, so it’s worth it glish and seventh graders and his wife originally set up their winners for 2009. Missing from the photo is scholarship winner [to go to college in Pennsylvania],” foundation to help students in rural Abbey Hewitt. Nikky says. Allison Lewis and Erica ...... Reeves. For more junior high news, turn to. . . School Holds Page 5 Seven FBLA Members to Compete Computer Fair Qualifier at States in Hershey By Samantha Vetri, Staff reporter By Amanda Rebello When he first learned of a re- the advantages and disadvan- for states, FBLA chapter adviser gional competition to be held at tages of various retirement plans Duane Benedict has given contes- Photo co-editor for members of among other topics,” Chris said. tants textbooks, workbooks and Judges wandered around the local Future Business Leaders of In addition to Alex and Chris, practice tests to study. community learning center off the America (FBLA) chapters, fresh- seniors Gena Rapisardi, Tom Jagel “It helped me very much by high school library, looking over man Alex Charles never imagined and Courtney Haggerty will com- studying them,” Chris said. students’ shoulders and asking that if he competed, his perfor- pete in the Global Business cat- “I think everyone will do pretty Powerlifter Jamie Bozzo prac- questions about the projects that mance might qualify him to move egory by taking a group test deal- well at states because they are pre- tices after school in the were on the computer screens. on to state-level competition. ing with language and culture, the pared,” Mr. Benedict said. Twelve high school students weight room. For more sports After all, this is Alex’s first year global business environment and An additional group of FBLA and nine junior high students were in the MAHS chapter of FBLA. taxes and government regulations, members were runners-up in re- news, turn to. . . taking part in a schoolwide com- Pages 7-8 “I didn’t even know about the for example. They will also analyze gional competition at Keystone ...... puter fair, a contest designed to de- FBLA organization [before this a case study consisting of a prob- and may also attend states in DATES termine which students would rep- year],” Alex said. lem in international business and Hershey. resent the high school at NEIU 19’s But Alex, along with six other present their solution to a panel of The group includes seniors TO REMEMBER regional competition for the Penn- March 11 FBLA members from MAHS, will judges. Carol Small, Kristy Birchard, Jack sylvania High School Computer compete at states to be held in Senior Tony Bistocchi will Rechlitz and Sara Jones and jun- Grades 5-12 Band Concert Fair at Keystone College March 9. Hershey in April. Alex and fresh- demonstrate his Sports Manage- ior Nichole Hoflund. High school auditorium The statewide fair is sponsored by man Chris Jordan will answer ment knowledge by responding to Alex said he is optimistic about 6 p.m. the Bureau of Educational Technol- questions on a test in the Intro- questions about such topics as his first trip to states. March 14 ogy of the Pennsylvania Depart- duction to Business category in sports marketing, facility and event “…I knew pretty much all of ment of Education. which they placed second and first management and sports law. [the questions at regionals] from Class of 2010 The high school students en- Dodgeball Tournament respectively at regionals. Junior Chris Stevens will take either working in a tax office or from tered creative projects using tech- “The questions will involve in- a test based on material he has Both high school gyms my introduction to business class. nology in five categories: logo de- surance, basics about the studied regarding technology con- I expect the questions at states to 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. sign, Web page design, graphic economy, how to get credits or cepts. be similar but more challenging,” March 19 design, computer programming loans for starting businesses and To help the students prepare Alex said. Harlem Wizards and multimedia presentations. Jun- High school gym ior high contestants competed in three categories: logo design, mul- By Chelsea Hall 7 p.m. timedia presentations and Web Fulbright Scholar Visits MAHS A&E editor April 4 page design. Student Council/Board Forum Individual students or pairs of Fulbright scholars Polly Pritchard and said. “I’ve only learned about America and High school cafeteria students were required to prepare Fatima El Addaoui of Morocco wore the American way of life in books. djelabas to Mme Pritchard’s French classes “I’ve had a very good first impression 10 a.m. their projects according to the cri- teria outlined by the state for their Feb. 27 to show students examples of [here]. The students are well behaved, eager typical Moroccan women’s fashion. April 6 particular categories. to learn and [this] school is organized.” Donkey The teachers are part of the Fulbright Mme Pritchard has encouraged her Judges came from “a cross sec- Teacher Exchange Program sponsored by High school gym students to take full advantage of having tion of graphic, computer technol- the U. S. Department of State, whose Mme El Addaoui in their classes. 7-10:30 p.m. ogy and IT personnel [at MAHS],” purpose is to encourage diplomatic “I’m hoping that the students will April 18 computer teacher and contest or- relations between the two countries. learn about Morocco and Muslims but Lathrop St. Dance Recital ganizer Mike Clifford said. Mme El Addaoui, who resides in also gain insight into a very foreign way of Rabat, Morocco, is an English teacher at life,” Mme Pritchard said. Auditorium Judges followed standards similar to those that will be used at the El Ghazali High School in Temara and is Eli Gere/Meteor Chronicle “Again, I am hoping this exposure will April 25 regional competition, according to spending six weeks in the , “[This] experience is very good in instill healthy curiosity about far away Football Bench Competition Mr. Clifford. working with Mme Pritchard, who spent which to have an educational exchange with places and tolerance of new and strange- six weeks in Morocco last fall. teachers and students,” Mme El Addaoui sounding customs.” 7a.m.-4p.m. See Computer Fair, Page 2 PAGE 2 MARCH 2009 METEOR CHRONICLE News Computer Fair continued from Page 1 Principal’s Perspective The regional judges look for the Web page design category and a logo for their CYO basketball coach’s “looks, how complex [projects] are, won second place and a spot at landscaping business, Rock Solid planning, computer work and organi- regionals with his Web site about his Landscaping, and took second place. Bullying in Our Schools zation,” according to Mr. Clifford. They mother’s country store, Carlton’s The judges chose the top two also look for “how polished and pro- Country Home. projects in each category. Winning By Jim Tallarico fessional [a project is] and how well it Bryce said he entered the contest students were awarded $30 gift cards meets its goal, if it has one.” “to show my skills at computers,” to Best Buy. I recently years. Ten percent are bullied on a The MAHS judges looked more which he had learned in his Web de- From that group, the judges then attended a regular basis. at “the aesthetics and the amount of sign class. decided which projects warranted be- principal’s Bullying can be physical or work that went in,” Mr. Clifford said. An entrant in the junior high mul- ing entered in the regional competi- conference, verbal. Boys tend to use physical In past years the majority of re- timedia category, seventh grader Callie tion. and one of intimidation or threats, regardless gional entrants were selected from Mr. Curley said she learned a lot “from the Students representing MAHS at the topics of the gender of their victims. Clifford’s Web design classes. This judges’ tips” as they looked at her regionals were seniors Meghan But- being Bullying by girls is more often year he decided a schoolwide compe- PowerPoint project on vampires. She ler, Ian King and Joe Thomas; juniors discussed verbal, usually with another girl as tition would be better. said she had to ask computer teacher Erin Caterson, Matt Meehan, Chris Laura Griffith, who was a judge, and Mordovancey, Chris Ralston, Amanda was bullying “It gave an opportunity to reach the target. Children who are bullied out beyond my class and find other Mr. Clifford for help. Rebello and Chris Stevens; sopho- in our experience real suffering that can participants,” Mr. Clifford said. “[I was] “I have a lot more to learn,” Callie mores Bryce Carlton and Mike schools. It interfere with their social and thrilled with the work that was done in said. Duncan; eighth graders Ashlynn wasn’t a emotional development as well as a limited time and hope in years to Juniors Chris Mordovancey and Cobb, Mollie Host, David Koloski and shock to their school performance. come, [the contest] will grow.” Matt Meehan were partners on a Sean Regan; and seventh grader hear that The newest form of bullying in Sophomore Bryce Carlton entered graphic design project. They entered Samantha Bennici. almost today’s schools is “cyber- ...... every bullying.” This is when a child, school preteen or teen is tormented, Passion for Athletics Makes America the Choice represented threatened, harassed, humiliated By Chelsea Hall, Arts & Entertainment editor at the or embarrassed by another child, Rotary exchange student Marcelo important there; there are some but not conference preteen or teen, using the Internet, Pinheiro, a senior, left a warm and as many,” Marcelo said. “American from all interactive and digital tech- breezy climate for a cold and windy basketball is better than Brazil over the nologies or mobile phones. one when he came from Franca, Sao basketball because America has the country There are two kinds of Paulo, Brazil, Jan. 19. best basketball in the world. USA has hadcyberbullying: direct attacks “America is fun and beautiful but the NBA.” experienced (messages sent to a child directly) cold,” Marcelo said. Marcelo plays for the Neumann bullying or cyberbullying by proxy (using Marcelo admits that his principal Celtics, a part of the local Catholic Youth in their others to help cyberbully the interest in the United States is its Organization (CYO). schools. victim). The advances in tech- sports. “[The] Celtics are wonderful and Every nology have made it very difficult “I love basketball and soccer. Brazil good,” Marcelo said. “I have fun administrator to monitor this type of bullying does not have as many sports and [when I play]. My teammates are very involved in both in and out of school. games compared to here. It is not very friendly.” the discussion We also need to teach our agreed that children that silence when others bullying is one are being hurt is not acceptable. $40,000 in Scholarships Available of the most Martin Luther King, Jr. once said, $40,000 in Scholarships Available important “In the end, we will remember not for 2009 Graduates Through Foundation issues the words of our enemies, but the for 2009 Graduates Through Foundation facing silence of our friends.” The Class of 2009 is invited to apply for more than a dozen scholarships being awarded by high All of us must be involved in The Community Foundation of Susquehanna and Wyoming counties. Students attending MAHS schools dealing with bullying. If we all can should complete applications to be considered for the scholarships presently administered by the today. help kids understand how much foundation. Bullying is a common bullying hurts, they may think Students who receive awards are also nominated for potential matching scholarships through experience for many children twice before forwarding a hurtful and adolescents. Surveys email or text. It will take diligence the PATH program. Scholarship applications must be completed and returned to the high school indicate that as many as half from everyone, but in the end our guidance office by March 30 to be considered. of all children are bullied at kids will be safer at school, online More information can be obtained from the guidance office or by visiting The Community some time during their school and offline. Foundation’s Web site at www.community-foundation.org.

“Life As We Know It” is a year-long series devoted to informing teens Life As We Know It... and the community about some of the issues teens face. Shoplifting: Exciting Rush or Addictive Problem for Teens? By Gabi Burgess and Leah Cronk, Staff reporter and Junior high editor She walks through the mall, and two main reasons,” Dr. Theresa Kaub feel tension, feelings of pleasure, “I never thought that it would be “Not many [shoplifters] work,” something inside a store catches her says. “One is peer pressure; [teens] gratification or relief during theft. so hard for me to walk into a store and Zoey says.“Mostly cosmetics and eye. She has no money, but that has feel the need to look cool in front of Although many teens do not force myself not to take things. It just electronics [are stolen].” never mattered before. As she enters their friends. suffer from cleptomania, 33 percent began as a rush,” MAHS junior Alice*, “I rarely feel guilty about the store, she watches her back to make “The second is the pressure teens have admitted that it was difficult for who has been shoplifting for the past shoplifting,” Alice says. “The only sure no one is following her. feel to have cool new things, but they them to stop shoplifting, even after four years, says. reason I would feel bad would be if I When she is positive that she is may not have the money for them.” being caught, according to CASA. “I shoplift from Wal-Mart the most stole from stores that don’t have a lot not being watched, she finds the item According to the FBI, shoplifting “[I] shoplifted five days a week,” for several reasons,” Alice says. “It’s of money or local businesses.” that had caught her eye, removes the increased 12 percent from 2006 to 2007. MAHS senior Aiden,* who shoplifted very easy, but there is still a bit of a Sophomore Isabella* thinks that tag and pretends to fish her cell phone A survey from Cleptomaniacs and for the first time this school year, says. rush. It’s easy to spot the cameras, and [shoplifting] is not acceptable ever. from her bag while placing the item in Shoplifters Anonymous (CASA) says Aiden did not shoplift alone, Wal-Mart is such a huge corporation When she sees her friends shoplifting, it. After the item has been safely that stores most commonly shoplifted however; his friends went with him. that [stealing from them] never makes she feels a little different about them secured, she walks to the nearest from are department stores, “It started at Hollister. We wanted me feel bad.” and is hesitant to leave them alone in bathroom and surveys her newest supermarkets and specialty/ small things like cologne, and we just Zoey,* a Wal-Mart employee, says her room because she’s afraid they’ll score. convenience stores. kept going,” Aiden says. “most shoplifters are older high school steal something from her. This is not a new routine for “[Shoplifting] is usually a rush,” “We moved up to bigger things.” kids and younger college kids [ranging “If I have a friend who is MAHS sophomore Aurora.* Dr. Kaub says, “but for some teens, it Aiden says he didn’t care about from 15-23 years of age].” shoplifting, I walk out of the store,” “Almost every time I walk through can lead to an addiction.” what he stole. “[When I shoplift], I think about Isabella says. the mall, I find it hard to not take Cleptomania is a rare medical “You name it, we stole it.” what would happen if I get caught, Not only does shoplifting hurt anything,” Aurora says. disorder that is defined by an “I was never worried [about being and it gets me so excited,” Alice says. businesses, especially during these For Aurora, like many American individual’s tendency to steal caught]. I felt I was good enough,” According to Zoey, when a times, but it also hurts consumers. teens, shoplifting is an adrenaline rush. unneeded items. These items usually MAHS senior Trent* says. “I wasn’t person is apprehended for shoplifting, According to security consultant Teenagers comprise only seven have no value to the individual and worried about being seen.” he/she is taken into a room and Chris McGoey, shoplifting is estimated percent of the American population, could have been easily paid for, Trent shoplifted every weekend. confined. All unpaid merchandise is to cost businesses $10-$13 billion per but they make up 25 percent of according to Physiology Today. Many “It was fun to see how big of a given to an employee, and the police year, and these losses are passed on shoplifters, according to accounts speak of the individual either thing [ I could] get away with,” Trent are notified. to the consumers. MedincineNet, Inc. A total of 20 discarding or giving away the stolen says. Once the police arrive, the The thefts also reveal a lack of percent of adults claim to have started items. The thefts are not usually Trent and Aiden say they have apprehended person pays a fine from scruples on the part of the shoplifters. shoplifting as teens. planned and are avoided if an arrest is stopped shoplifting to some extent Wal-Mart, which is up to five times “I know it’s probably wrong, but I “I believe that teens shoplift for possible. Cleptomaniacs commonly after being caught. the sum of the stolen goods. love that feeling,” Alice says. * Editors’ Note: Names have been changed to respect the students’ privacy. METEOR CHRONICLE MARCH 2009 PAGE 3 Opinion Editorial Editorial Cartoon

Education: Best Solution Next week is our for Online Risks biggest game!

It’s a dangerous world out risks. Twenty percent of those there for kids. In this modern age surveyed said they thought that they don’t just have to worry giving personal information to about real-world problems; they someone they didn’t know have to worry about the many through the Internet was safe. threats found in cyberspace. Kids Many people point to solutions can be subject to a variety of to these problems, such as crimes or malicious acts ranging increased filtering and monitoring from bullying to illegal or offensive software. However, despite the material and sometimes even increase in the use of this software, identity theft. And as the Internet children are apparently still becomes more and more viewing inappropriate material. In accessible to increasing numbers 1999, 33 percent of the parents of of people, and kids at younger and the children reported using younger ages are learning to use protective software while in 2006, the Internet, the number of these 55 percent of the parents did. malicious acts is on the rise. Clearly, filtering is not the solution The U.S. Department of to this problem. Which team is it? Elk Lake or Mountain View? ...... Justice’s Office of Juvenile Justice That is where i-SAFE comes and Delinquency Prevention and in. I-SAFE is a non-profit world- the University of New wide foundation that’s goal is Hampshire’s Crimes Against Internet safety education of Children Research Center youths. Recently, our school Another conducted a survey of 1,500 district started an i-SAFE program. children from ages 10 t o17 in1999 High school students who have VoiceA Plea to Teens and then again in 2006, asking been trained as i-Mentors—those teens on a daily basis. It’s difficult, I certing about the indifferent positions them about their online who are certified to teach about find, to come by a teen with informed that teens take is that they know they experiences with unwanted Internet safety—go to Lathrop opinions on any national issues. A lack act this way yet aren’t concerned or viewing of sexual and/or offensive Street and Choconut Valley to of interest in anything less concrete willing to change. material and harassment. In 1999, teach students in different grade than checking one’s MySpace or “Change” was the popular slogan 25 percent of those surveyed said levels about Internet safety. They By Tatim Brace Facebook is evident. displayed everywhere during the they had seen sexual material teach them simple yet critically The ailing economy is everyone’s Obama campaign, and I hate to see Opinion editor problem, and whether or not teens care that powerful word fade to the backs important lessons, such as not to unwillingly; in 2006 the number “My top priority as president will enough to change the way they react of Americans’ minds. was 34 percent. The number of talk to strangers or give out be ending this war in Iraq, a war that to new economic circumstances or “I believe that most teens are more aggressive sexual solicitations— personal information online. should have never been authorized and even acknowledge their existence, the intelligent than people give them credit when someone (with sexual This is where the solution to never been waged. In doing so, I will problems our country faces on a daily for,” junior Larissa Hilgner says. “They intentions) tries to actually meet a the problem of online solicitation work to keep our country safe from basis are not going to resolve them- are just as aware of the problems in child—also rose from three and preying on children starts. terrorists and restore American cred- selves if everyone sits idly by. their own country as adults are.” percent in 1999 to four percent in Software can limit what children ibility around the world.” Though I’m not proud to admit it, I agree heartily with that, which 2006. Internet harassment rose see and what they do for only so These are the words of Barack I live in a generation where more than leads me to wonder where the passion from six percent in 1999 to nine long. At some point, they have the Obama. National security, health care half of the teens I know have an “I has gone and why. percent in 2006. capability to get past protective and education also top President don’t care” attitude, and their apathy Another junior says that she isn’t limited to national priorities. Ev- wishes we could live in a time where software, allowing them to do Obama’s priority list. Cox Communications, a digital With a new president, national pri- erything from school to jobs is a joke. ensuring everyone’s freedom of cable and Internet provider, and almost whatever they want online. orities have shifted. While many stu- If I had a penny for every time I’ve speech and citizens’ rights were top the National Center for Missing A more effective solution is dents and teachers were excited about heard someone tell me that his opin- priorities, but the economy is most and Exploited Children report that needed: education. the historical significance of Inaugu- ions are irrelevant until he turns 18, I’d important now. 45 percent of those children Instead of just blocking Web ration Day Jan. 20, one MAHS stu- be a very rich person. That would be I wish we lived in a time where en- surveyed said they were asked for sites and restricting the dent thought of the president’s plan convenient because as a teen, I’m al- dangered species were our biggest personal information by someone capabilities of students while on for the nation and felt disappointment. ways looking for the easy way out, problem, a time when my friend could they didn’t know, and 14 percent school computers, MASD is She cares not about the economy or especially when it comes to earning see progress in the preservation of had met someone they knew only actually educating students on even war but about the wild mustang money, but…. mustangs, but we don’t. through the Internet. These how to avoid problems horses that are in danger of becoming I’m not about to criticize the entire Maybe I don’t agree that we teen population of the United States, should all be more worried about the themselves. Hopefully, by extinct in the United States. She is also statistics are only some of many passionate about deforestation and the but it’s sad that all of the teens I do wild mustangs than about economic that demonstrate the threats that instructing students at a young environment. know who care about anything have struggles, but I do admire her passion. children can face while online. age, they will grow up able to make Teens’ priorities can be very differ- to be grouped with the majority of It’s sad—and frightening—that so And even worse, many responsible decisions when using ent from those of adults. As a teen people who have a serious problem few of us teens are passionate about students seem to not realize the the Internet. myself, I have a firsthand view of other with their mind-sets. Especially discon- anything! ...... Meteor Chronicle Corrections Montrose Area Junior/Senior High School 50 High School Rd. Montrose, PA 18801-9507 (570) 278-3731 The staff of the Meteor Chronicle regrets [email protected] misreporting the following information in Issue 3:

Editor in Chief...... Eli Gere Staff The names of first grader Chalice Guyette and News/Features Editor...... Eli Gere freshman Tyler Whipple were misspelled. Opinion Editor...... Tatim Brace James Brewer, Gabi Burgess, Ayla Carley, Thomas Davenport, Sarah Feeney, Katie Hibbard, Johanna Hripto, Mindy Arts & Entertainment Editor...... Chelsea Hall Approximately ten members of the Class of 2009 Johnson, Stacie Rihl, Matt Rucker, Katelyn Spellman, Chris Elementary Editor...... Emily Gow have joined some branch of the military, not just Stevens, Katy Swingle, Meggie Vaccaro, Samantha Vetri four as mentioned in a front page story. Junior High Editor...... Leah Cronk Sports Co-editors...... Megan Henry MASD, not Elk Lake School District, provides Angela Short The Meteor Chronicle is a student publication researched, written and transportation to the pool for the 12 MAHS Photo Editors...... Geena Bistocchi produced by members of the newspaper staff named above. The unsigned swimmers who joined Elk Lake’s swim team. editorials on this or other pages of the Chronicle are written by the editors Amanda Rebello in chief or a designee and reflect solely the opinion of the newspaper staff. Adviser...... Mrs.Sandra Kaub Letters to the editor are welcomed and will be published as space allows. The last line of a caption under a sports photo Letters must be signed although names will be withheld upon request. The was inadvertently deleted. The last sentence of Chronicle reserves the right to edit letters for grammar and clarity, and all the caption should have read: “The local CYO letters are subject to laws governing obscenity, libel,privacy, and disrup- tion of the school process as are all contents of the newspaper. The program has seen a large increase in numbers Printed by Mulligan Printing Corporation editoral policy of the Meteor Chronicle is available upon request. of MAHS athletes this season.” PAGE 4 MARCH 2009 METEOR CHRONICLE

MASD, Students Take Action Against Online Threats By Matt Rucker, Staff reporter MySpace has banned approxi- concerned for our students’ safety,” mately 90,000 sex offenders in an Mrs. Smith says. attempt to protect its users, the This year a group of 13 high Associated Press reported in early school students has been formed to February. Facebook, another help teach the i-SAFE lessons to popular social networking Web site, children in Lathrop Street and has banned 5,500 sex offenders. Choconut Valley elementary “They’re stepping up to the schools. Two students are assigned plate against sexual predators,” to each grade level and teach a junior Chris Stevens says, “but they respective curriculum. have to continue in order to achieve The courses’ focuses depend on a safer online community.” the age of students being taught, When 95 kindergartners and first volunteers say. For instance, the grade students were surveyed, 93 curriculum for kindergartners percent (88 students) said they have introduces the concept of the access to computers at home. Of the Internet and draws comparisons 88 students, 37 percent admitted between it and the real community. using their computers without adult Students are taught that just as supervision. they need an adult with them when MASD is making an effort to they visit places around their town, keep Internet users safe through they also need one when they go collaboration with i-SAFE, a national on the Internet. program focused on educating The course goes into Megan Henry/Meteor Chronicle Sophomores Tom Jordan (left) and Joel Roman and junior Alyssa Allis play a game with Miss grade school students about more detail, teaching students about Carolyn Morrison’s class as part of their i-SAFE lesson Feb. 17 at Choconut Valley. potential dangers on the Internet. online harassment and copyright The lesson included discussing online bullying and kindness. The students passed a globe-like CFF (Classrooms for the Future) laws. ball around the room, with the tosser and catcher showing kindness to each other by exchanging coach Patty Smith learned about the English teacher Bill Walker’s compliments. program, teaching resources and son Isaac is among In addition to the plan that program’s options over the next few with online safety information.” ways to implement them, at an NEIU the students taking the lessons. MASD is using, i-SAFE also has years, Mrs. Smith says. “I think [the program is] a good 19 meeting a few years ago, she says. “[Kids] are getting used to several other methods of educating “Hopefully we will grow to idea,” Chris says, “because in this “A couple of years ago there computers at his age, and they need people, including parent involve- incorporate more activities and day and age, with the access of was a lot of news coverage pertain- to know what things to avoid,” Mr. ment and online lessons. The district grade levels,” Mrs. Smith says, “and technology, kids need to be ing to online predators, and I was Walker says. plans to implement more of the eventually reach out to the public educated on how to stay safe.” ...... ‘Perfectionist’ Scores Big By Emily Gow Little Voices Mrs. Anne Lathrop, was not surprised Elementary editor by the scores either, she says. “What would be the coolest thing about living The principal down at his desk “Annelise is a wonderful student. in the White House?” and put on his glasses. Picking up the She just loves to learn and is involved PSSA reports in front of him, he began in every classroom activity,” Mrs. to review the scores. As he scanned Lathrop said. “She takes pride in her Connor DeCamp the page, he spotted an unusually work and excels in all of our subjects. Fifth Grade high number—a perfect score. Her positive attitude about school is Doing a double take, he thought contagious. Choconut Valley he had read the paper incorrectly. He “I’ve never seen her not be “It would be great looked again only to find that he had prepared, whether it’s a daily math for hide and seek!” indeed seen a perfect score. Quickly assignment or a long-term project like searching for the name of the student, we’ve had in reading. Her work is he looked up her second score. It was thoughtful and precise. perfect too! Was this possible? Could “I think one of the great things a third-grade student have earned two about Annelise is that you would never out of two perfect scores on her PSSA? March. She was taught strategies to know she scored a perfect score Jillian Gieski For Lathrop Street fourth grader use while taking the test, and Annelise because she’s so humble about her Fifth Grade Annelise Mittmann, it was possible. says she used those techniques, such accomplishments. She’s always willing Lathrop Street Last year Annelise and her as using the scrap paper for math and to help her classmates and will do so “I would get to sit in the chair classmates took the PSSA (Penn- reading every answer for a question in a kind, quiet way. The other students sylvania System of School in the Oval Office.” before making a choice. in our room are genuinely proud of Assessment), which is administered After taking the test in late March, her, as I am, for her success in last year’s annually to third, fifth, eighth and Annelise says she “forgot about it” PSSA and more importantly, for just eleventh graders in all public schools and never thought about how well she being a terrific Lathrop Street kid.” in the Commonwealth. The third might have performed. When the To celebrate Annelise’s accomp- graders’ test had two sections: math scores were received in the fall, it all lishments, Mr. Adams invited her and Brandon Curley and reading. came back to her. her family to the January school board Earning a perfect score on the “[As I took the test, I felt] kind of meeting. Third Grade PSSA is rare, according to Lathrop nervous that I wouldn’t get a good “I walked around and shook [the Lathrop Street Street principal Greg Adams. Many score,” Annelise said, “[but when I got board members’] hands,” Annelise “You would live in a historical advanced students who do well on my scores,] I was proud of myself. I said. “I got a certificate. It was exciting.” monument.” the test still score an average of 150- thought I would do well, but not that Mr. Adams said he wanted to “put 200 points below the maximum. well!” [Annelise’s] accomplishments up on “I was looking through the scores, Annelise’s parents were as happy a pedestal” because she is a hard- and I had to take another look because as their daughter. working student and deserves I’ve never seen [perfect scores] before,” “I was very pleased, and I just recognition. Mr. Adams said. “I was pleasantly wanted to congratulate her,” Mrs. “Annelise is a quiet kid, but she’s Markayla Fabrizio surprised and happy for [Annelise] Mittmann said. “She definitely made a humble kid,” Mr. Adams said. “She Third Grade because she is a great student.” her parents proud. She tries her does her work and goes about her Choconut Valley To prepare for the test last year, hardest, so I wasn’t totally surprised. business. She’s very modest, and she Annelise decided to take the PSSA She’s a perfectionist. She loves school; wasn’t looking for this praise, but I “You will be famous, and you preparation class offered after school that helps a lot.” wanted to do that for her. She’s the kid can have any pet you want.” every Monday from January through Annelise’s teacher, you want your whole school full of.”

Sixth Graders: Vaccination Reminder! One dose: Tetanus, diphtheria, Needed by August: Collin Williams accellular pertussis (Tdap) Fourth Grade Lathrop Street One dose: Meningococcal conjugate “If I lived in the White House, vaccine (MCV) For more information, I would build a skate park Two doses: Varicella vaccine contact the Department of in the backyard.” (if no history of natural Health at 1-877 PA HEALTH. chicken pox) METEOR CHRONICLE MARCH 2009 PAGE 5

Student Profile Readers Raise Fun, Funds Baking: A Family Affair By Leah Cronk, Junior high editor By Stacie Rihl cookie recipe for her family and When the four-member Sensa- cases. Their challenge was to read during the competition, and others Staff reporter friends during the next year. tions team took on the four-mem- several passages using various simply made donations, all of “I think she could make them ber Gummy Bears during reading reading strategies they had which were used to fund Read Cooking and baking in the in her sleep,” Mrs. McCullough teacher Charlene Kempa’s Reading learned in class and then answer Across America activities done Swingle family is a generational says. Bowl Feb. 3, the goal was to have questions. with the Lathrop Street and Emily’s mother talked her into thing. Mrs. Nina McCullough’s fun. And they did, players say. Teams earned points for Choconut Valley children, grandmother taught her when she reentering the contest another was eight, then she taught her year. “[The Reading Bowl] was so correct answers, and the winning according to Mrs. Kempa. daughter, Mrs. Jill Swingle, when “She took second place the much fun [and] really cool because team, the Sensations with a score “I had a great time. It was she was ten and her first time, and I thought she’d it was so competitive,” seventh of 104 points out of a possible 110, exciting because it was a granddaughter, eighth probably have a good grader Holly Andre says. earned the privilege of going to competition, and I’m a competitive grader Emily Swingle, chance,” Mrs. Swingle But fun was not the only Lathrop Street and Choconut person,” Callie says. “[I learned] when she was six or says. purpose of the two-day Valley March 2 to celebrate the teamwork and better reading skills seven. Emily’s persistence and competition, Mrs. Kempa says. birthday of children’s author Dr. [as well].” When Emily spent hard work paid off when The Reading Bowl was also a way Seuss. Mrs. Kempa says the Reading time with her her dream bars won first to raise money for Read Across “I knew we had a good group Bowl encouraged students to read place at the Harford Fair grandmother during America, a program sponsored by (Donnie Arnold, Callie Curley, more and to practice the reading the summer when she last August, qualifying was younger, the two her for the 2009 the National Education Associ- Ashlee Lattner), but there were skills they had learned during would spend their days Pennsylvania State ation (NEA) and designed to other good groups,” Holly says. class, such as finding details, baking. Farm Show bake- encourage children to read and “All our other friends were in the comparing and contrasting and One off in Harrisburg master basic skills. other groups, so it was just for fun. identifying cause and effect. summer, Jan. 9. She faced Students chose their team- But it was cool to win.” “Doing this project helped me they 74 challengers. mates and team names as well as Some students solicited to learn what area I needed to came up Emily was team shirts and colors in some pledges for the points they earned practice on,” Holly says. with an surprised when ...... idea. she learned she had won “[Emily] second place Winter Sports in Review has in Harris- By Samantha Vetri and Mindy Johnson always burg. Staff reporters enjoyed “I was baking, really Girls’ Basketball Boys’ Basketball so one excited, The seventh grade girls’ “They didn’t care who scored Despite his only wrestling summer and I couldn’t basketball team ended its regular as long as we scored!” seventh experience being in fifth grade when we believe that I [had season with a 14-0 record. grade boys’ basketball coach Ryan he was part of the school district’s decided won] because there “…We are lucky to go Soden said. midget program, seventh grader John were a lot of entries,” s h e would Shaffer qualified for the Lackawanna enter the Emily says. undefeated as we work well as a The team finished its season Hershey Her prize was a team,” Samantha Bennici said. “Last with a 10-4 record. League District 2 wrestling competition [Cocoa Classic red ribbon and game against Tunkhannock was “Playing Elk Lake [was at Lake Lehman Feb. 14 where he Cookies, Emily Swingle $100. close (17-12), but we stuck together difficult] because they were very finished fifth or sixth, which is a non- Brownie or Bar] These days, to pull off a win.” good and always win,” seventh placement. contest,” Mrs. McCullough says. Emily spends her time cooking and The girls’ season graders Erik Burgh and Cameron “I was really excited to be the only They went through dozens of baking with her mom when she is record was 10-4. Dean said. Elk Lake defeated one to qualify for junior high districts cookbooks and magazines, not playing basketball or dancing. “They really work well together. Montrose 28-21. from our school,” Shaffer said. looking for recipe ideas that they “[Cooking and baking with You can see that they have grown With only six eighth graders Prior to districts, Shaffer had could combine to create Emily] is nice because she cleans up playing basketball together,” out for basketball, the team wrestled in the Lackawanna County and does all the hard work,” Mrs. something new, according to Mrs. Wrestling Championship at Delaware McCullough. Swingle says. Coach Carrie Robinson said. “They needed the help of a few seventh Emily entered her final recipe, Emily says she will continue are always cheering each other on graders. Breaking the full-court Valley in late January, placing third, and Hershey’s Dream Bar Cookies, in to bake and is even considering a whether they are on the court or press and making foul shots and in the Lackawanna League wrestling Susquehanna County’s Harford career in the baking industry. bench. When the team is having an lay-ups were a challenge, Coach sectionals at Blue Ridge Feb. 7 where Fair for the first time two years ago “I’m going to continue baking off night, they definitely rally around Andy Vaccaro said. he also placed third. and won second place. in the fair, but I’m not doing these each other to find a way to win and The team finished the season The junior high wrestlers finished Then she continued baking her cookies. I’m retiring them.” play together.” 6-8. their regular season 9-11...... Mid-terms Earn Mixed Reviews Students Dance Their By Katie Hibbard, Staff reporter Mid-terms: a word that raises Seventh grade math teacher students learn the material Hearts Out a bit of concern for some students, Mary Gesford, who has given mid- presented and to ensure they take especially seventh graders who are terms since she started teaching proper notes,” Mr. Kloss said. “It By Ayla Carley, Staff reporter new to the concept of taking tests five years ago, says it’s a good way sums up the first half of the year in the middle of the school year to see how well students absorb and starts students off with good that cover all of the material taught the information. third quarter grades.” during the first half. “I give mid-terms to assess Not all teachers, however, give No mid-terms are given in whether or not the students are mid-terms. Eighth grade U.S. cul- elementary school, so some remembering concepts that we did tures teacher Dan Cherney is one. seventh graders weren’t even in the beginning of the year,” Miss “My first year [teaching at expecting them. Seventh grader Gesford said. MAHS], I thought they were a Josh Hibbard said that he was not They are important and helpful good way to judge my students’ told about the tests in the for students because mid-terms knowledge,” Mr. Cherney said. “I beginning of the year and was prepare them for bigger tests, such no longer give a mid-term.” nervous about his only mid-term, as PSSA’s, Miss Gesford added. He found them to be time a history test. “I do feel mid-terms are consuming—a day to go over the “I didn’t think I would pass important. I use it as a review for material, two days to take the test [the mid-term],” Josh said. “It was PSSA’s that they have so that they and then a day to go over the tests, 100 multiple choice questions; I’m review the material that we have he said. not really good at history.” covered so far that year,” Miss “It took up more time than I Seventh grader Sal Vetri had a Gesford said. thought it was worth,” Mr. different idea of them. He said his Seventh and eighth grade Cherney said. “I’d rather not waste Leah Cronk/Meteor Chronicle mid-terms weren’t so bad. history teacher Kevin Kloss said any time and just teach them Junior high students dance the night away at the SADD Valentine’s Day “I get straight A’s; they weren’t mid-terms are important for the something new.” dance Feb. 14 in the cafeteria. difficult [for me],” Sal said of his students because they show how “[I think mid-terms] are Seventh grader Melody Snedeker says she loves going to school dances. math and history mid-terms. much the students have truly helpful,” seventh grader Casey “I get to hang out with friends that I don’t get to see much,” she says. Most teachers give mid-terms learned and how well they have Nikerson says. “Some of [the Freshman Mike Roman, a SADD officer, said that approximately 135 to see what skills their students paid attention. material] I didn’t know, so I had to students attended the event. need to practice. “[I give a mid-term] to ensure figure it out, and I learned it.”

PAGE 6 MARCH 2009 METEOR CHRONICLE

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Arts & Entertainment ○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○ By Chelsea Hall Matches Made in Heaven Featured Artist Arts & Entertainment editor By Katy Swingle Machine Staff reporter Versatile Artist Easily Inspired When sophomore James with the answers I gave and how Quiet. Diligent. Content. Brewer heard that the Matchmaker they affected my results.” Comfortable. Gentle. Compassionate. surveys were available in the Juniors Tatim Brace and Nick All of the above describe senior cafeteria Feb. 11 and he had no Bicknell, best friends since Victoria Porter, according to friends and money, he pleaded with any seventh grade, turned up first on art teacher Cathy Regan. classmate he could find. each other’s “Most compatible in Vicky views herself artistically as “well, creative.” “Will somebody give me $2 so your grade” list. “You can’t get something out of I can find the love of my life?” “We just looked at each other nothing,” Vicky said. “I don’t think I’m James said. and thought it was hilarious,” the greatest artist in the school, but I A friend took pity on James’ Tatim said. know I put out my best effort to create sorry situation and loaned him the Seniors Nikky Finch’s and things that I like.” two bucks. Brad Bryant’s survey results Vicky has taken art classes since , and Mrs. Regan finds her Members of the AP Club and fascinated some of their friends. work and personality to be “creative.” IONS Club sold Matchmaker Each was ranked first on the “She’s very conscientious about surveys to students all around the other’s “Most compatible in your her work,” Mrs. Regan said. “She is school in late January to raise grade” list, despite the fact that very creative, pushes herself to try new funds for a trip to Washington, they are both in relationships with ideas/techniques, always finishes the D.C., in late March. other people. job and presents her work professionally.” “We chose this fundraiser “When I first saw [Brad as my One example of Vicky’s over more traditional fundraisers, #1], I just laughed and really didn’t creativeness is portrayed in a past such as food items, because of its think anything about it,” Nikky drawing she created. uniqueness,” senior Nathan said. “I did it last year,” Vicky said. “It Chelsea Hall/Meteor Chronicle Hollister, AP Club vice president, Brad says the “coincidence” was of my face and a road sign Senior Vicky Porter works on a watercolor painting during said. of their being first on each other’s [meshed together]; it’s my favorite.” her Art 4 class Feb. 24. On the survey students list might be because the two of “My favorite piece is her favorite piece,” Mrs. Regan said. “Vicky angles for her art,” Ashley said. “Her songs. Anything can bring on responded to various questions them dated each other in sixth thought out the composition very well best strength is painting–she can inspiration.” such as gender and hair color grade. in regards to the principles of design. blend the colors perfectly. With Vicky’s “caring” personality, preferences and favorite sports. Sophomore Stacie Rihl, Brad’s It catches your eye and makes the In addition to painting, Mrs. Regan Ashley finds her easy to talk to and More fun questions included, “If current girlfriend, said she is not viewer stop and think about it.” says drawing is another of Vicky’s generous with advice. you found $100, what would you at all worried about “another Currently Vicky is working on a strengths. “I ask for her advice a lot because do with it?” and “If you were woman.” lyrical illustration. The task is to choose “She seems to enjoy doing both,” I value her artistic opinion,” Ashley a song and illustrate it in watercolor. Mrs. Regan said. “She also does well said. “We come up with really creative caught sneaking out, what would “Brad turned up first on my Vicky chose the song “You Found with collages.” ideas, things I wouldn’t have come up be your excuse?” ‘Most compatible in other grades’ Me” by The Fray because “I like both “I really like acrylics and water- with on my own.” Most students say they didn’t list,” Stacie said. the song and the band, and I think it color the best because they are more Vicky plans to attend either take their results seriously but, Sadly, James said he didn’t find would be interesting to portray the dynamic and easier to paint with,” Marywood University or Lycoming some found them intriguing. the girl he has been waiting for song.” Vicky said. “I like to try different things, College for photography in the fall. “It was just fun seeing who I from his survey. Fellow artist Ashley Walker, a experiment with different mediums. I “Going for photography would was paired up with,” junior Megan “I may not have found the love senior, is impressed by Vicky’s “bold go with the flow–whatever pops into offer [me] more of a rewarding ideas.” my mind. experience because there are more Henry said. “It kind of made me of my life this time,” James said, “She’s very creative and “I get my inspiration from quotes career opportunities for a photog- reflect on my personality along “but there is always next year.” discovers/looks at a lot of different that I read, things in magazines or rapher,” Vicky said...... AP English Curriculum Goes from Page to Stage By Meggie Vaccaro, Staff reporter A house of horrors. An experiment included “The System of Dr. Tarr and “The program met all sorts of state Bernard Shaw’s Pygmalion, the story Schorr Family Firehouse Stage in with social standing. A montage of Professor Fether,” “The Tell-Tale educational standards, too,” Mr. of a man who passes off a Cockney Johnson City for a production of murder. What do all of these things Heart” and “Bernice.” Koloski said. street urchin as a duchess by simply Shakespeare’s Hamlet by Goodwill have in common, you ask? Students Two talented actors even took on The creators of Poe Evermore teaching her how to speak like one. Theatre, sponsored by the Press & in Mr. John Koloski’s 11th grade AP the daunting challenge of performing sent materials about Poe, his work and Mrs. Baessler took her students Sun-Bulletin. Mr. Walker’s seniors had English class recently found out. extended monologues. A Poe look-alike the stories to be performed to Mr. to see the play, she said, not only read the play in the past, and the AP In November the class visited the passionately recited “The Raven,” the Koloski in advance of the students’ because it was a work they’d been juniors were in the midst of it. fairgrounds of the Pennsylvania author’s best-known poem. visit to make sure they got as much looking at in class but also because The AP field trips were not only Renaissance Faire in Manheim to see Even a straight-jacket-clad tour out of the experience as possible. she believed it was an experience that entertaining but also a good way for Poe Evermore, a theatrical represen- guide calling himself “Larry” gave a “It was really cool,” senior no student should miss. students to see the material they study tation of a collection of some of Edgar rendition of “The Bells” that so chilled Kathleen Luecke said, “that we could “Any drama is good for kids to jump from page to stage, junior Megan Allen Poe’s most unsettling tales. the audience that people weren’t sure do something like that.” see,” Mrs. Baessler said. “To go see a Henry said. Visitors were led through several if they should applaud, run for the exits After the visit with “Poe,” AP play out of Montrose is just a good “It was a great way to bring the rooms in a classically creepy mansion or give the poor man a hug. students joined Mrs. Eileen Baessler’s thing for students to see.” curriculum to life, incorporating both to witness the genius and madness of At the time Mr. Koloski’s students senior English class in December to In early February Mr. Koloski’s drama and classical works. I loved it!” Poe’s tales. Stunning performances of were studying the art of the short story, attend a University of Scranton drama class, along with students from Mr. Bill Plays are not written to be read some of Poe’s most unnerving works more specifically Poe’s perfection of it. department performance of George Walker’s CP English class, visited the but to be seen, Mr. Koloski said.

Siblings Attend Districts Together Out and About With Angela & Geena Blast From By Stacie Rihl By Angela Short and Geena Bistocchi Staff reporter Sports co-editor and the Past Photos by Photo co-editor Amanda Rebello With the excitement killing us, when we were younger. The games Fox, Hillary Warner, Mike Burnett, we burst through the doors of and the slides were just as exciting and Casey Wolanin feel the same. Chuck E. Cheese on the Vestal as they were then. There’s nothing “I went to the Discovery Siblings Carol and Keenan Small attended district chorus Jan. Parkway. Our faces lit up like it was quite like climbing through the Center for my birthday with a few 14-16 at Nanticoke Area High School. Christmas morning. Despite our colored tubes, trying to find our of my friends,” Emily says. “We “It was a lot of fun to go with [Carol, a senior], and it was age, we were mind-boggled by the way out. had a great time. I felt like a little cool because even though my brother and three sisters had gone fun we were about to have. With Chuck E. Cheese is only one kid again.” to districts, none of us had ever been to the festival together,” little kids running around our feet, of the many places we used to love Everyone says that high Keenan, a sophomore, says. we fled to the token booth. to visit when we were younger. We school will be the best years of “This was my third time at district chorus and Keenan’s first, Geena Bistocchi/Meteor Chronicle Two hours and 100 tokens later, also enjoyed places like the our lives, but that’s only partially so I was glad I got to be there to show him how the whole we were famished, so we grabbed Discovery Center and the true. Being younger, the smallest process worked and introduce him to all of my PMEA some pizza and a seat and McDonald’s play place. things made us happy, like going (Pennsylvania Music Educators Association) friends,” Carol says. reminisced about our memories of Going to these places now to McDonald’s to play in the play Seniors Dylan Reed, Graham Harwood, Rachel Davenport the places we had gone when we makes us feel like we can relive place, going to the Discovery and Tim Best; junior Aaron Roman and sophomore Emily Augenti were younger. attended regional band March 4-7 at Milton Area High School. some of the best memories of our Center and Chuck E. Cheese. Graham will also attend regional orchestra March 18-21 at Being at Chuck E. Cheese at childhood. And we have come to Guess places are as fun as Hazelton Area High School. the age of 17 was not any different realize that we are not the only you make them, no matter what Amanda Rebello/Meteor Chronicle than being at Chuck E. Cheese ones who think so. Juniors Emily your age. METEOR CHRONICLE MARCH 2009 PAGE 7 METEOR SPORTS

Featured athlete Grant Places Athletes Among the Stars Powerlifting Produces Wrestling Success By Johanna Hripto Powerlifting Produces Wrestling Success Staff reporter Whipple Breaks State Records New equipment, practice year award. round, and another trip to the U. S. “It was really cool to see [USTA] By James Brewer, Staff reporter Open. All this is possible for tennis help us out and that they think we players at MAHS, thanks to a grant deserve it,” senior Ben Hinds said. “Push it!” his fellow ling season began in ling season, he said, he was from the United States Tennis Junior Emily Wesoloski was lifters yell. “Only one November, however, looking for some kind of an Association (USTA). grateful for the grant. more rep!” Whipple had to advantage, an edge, in the sport. The Susquehanna County Tennis “I think it’s awesome! I was Last spring through make a deci- He started to lift weights in Association (SCTA) was awarded the surprised because that’s a lot of fall, freshman Tyler sion about hopes of improving his strength $2,000 grant last November “The players money,” she said. after boys’ and girls’ tennis Wesoloski has played Whipple joined several continuing but ended up doing so well in coach Jim Hinds were so tennis for Montrose since her other powerlifters in with powerlifting that he decided to submitted a grant proposal excited! freshman year. the high school lifting move on to a competitive level. for financial assistance So was I! Eighth grader Megan weight room for or “The way my body is built with insurance costs, new ...I had to bring Hinds, who has been involved two to two-and- helps my lifting a lot,” Whipple tennis equipment, travel them back to in tennis for three years, was a-half hours said. “I have short arms and and tournament fees. earth a little happy, too. four days a legs, so I don’t have to push “[USTA] want[ed] to bit,” Coach “We can use [the money] week to lift that far.” know how [we would] Hinds said. for new equipment and any of weights. Whipple finished the spend the money, how our needs,” Hinds said. T h e hard work regular wrestling season in many players are involved in the It was hard for some players to program, and what programs will be keep reality in sight when they heard has paid off. February with a .500 implemented,” Coach Hinds said. of the grant. Whipple record before finishing To encourage athletes to play “The players were so excited! So holds the state records sixth at districts at tennis year round, whether they play was I! They wanted to go to the in the 14-to-15- Lake Lehman. for the high school or not, weekly Australian Open, Wimbledon, Florida, year-old and high lessons are offered at the indoor court so I had to bring them back to earth a school divisions for at Brown’s Gym in Montrose, owned little bit,” Coach Hinds said. the 123-pound by the Montrose Bible Conference, Players will, however, return to the weight class after lifting 180 moving on to “I from January through March, 2009 U. S. Open in Flushing, N.Y., in pounds in Fort Washington, wrestling. think I according to Coach Hinds. This is the late August as they did last year. Pa., Oct. 22. Whipple, who has been did well at second year of the program, and it has “We went [to the U. S. Open] on grown. Twenty-one of the 30 members the first day of school. I liked seeing “Tyler put a whole seven wrestling since he was seven districts for a freshman,” of SCTA are playing winter tennis the professionals play like that,” months into getting the record,” years old, decided to put Whipple said. compared to last year’s eight. Twenty- freshman Rina Nikolaidis said. powerlifting coach Eric powerlifting on hold in hopes of “Tyler has a great oppor- six of those players are from MAHS, Ben Hinds hopes to go again this Stallings said. qualifying for regional wrestling tunity to get 100 wins in his high and one is home-schooled. year if he isn’t too busy with college. “When I broke the state competition. school career,” Coach Bob “To have the players continue to “I’m not sure if I can [go to the U. record, I felt like everything I Ironically, it was wrestling Thorne said. show the interest and work really hard S. Open], but I would like to go as a did was worth it,” Whipple that drove Whipple to get into At press time Whipple had at improving their game is really chaperone,” Hinds said. “I liked the said. powerlifting. earned 14 wrestling victories. gratifying,” Coach Hinds said. experience of seeing what happens in Before this year’s wrest- After his eighth grade wrest Players are excited by the grant a professional match.” ...... Harlem Wizards to Return to MAHS WR Club Members Show After 14 Years, Wizards Back to Entertain By Angela Short Dedication By Sarah Feeney Sports co-editor Dedication Staff reporter When the varsity basketball “It will be fun to play with the As the runners headed back for the past three years, says the players take the court at 7 p.m. senior boys like in and inside, their noses were red and lower number allowed the runners March 19, they may face their to play with people at a higher level bodies cold. It was the middle of to form closer friendships with the toughest opponents all season: the of playing than us,” shooting guard February, but for these dedicated people who did run. Harlem Wizards. Chelsea Lunger says. runners, dealing with the elements “The only major difference was The professional entertainment Several other activities will be is what they do to become better. that there were a lot less people basketball part of the Sophomore Bryce Carlton is on willing to run longer than three or team’s Advanced tickets: March 19 the cross country team and track four miles a day, so it was hard to visit is a $8 for students/senior citizens event. team and is a member of Winter find someone to run with some- fundraiser $10 for adults Running Club. times,” senior Sam Cudo said. for the “[There will “I love to run and want to stay Cudo, who ran the most miles in high Tickets at the door: be] a con- in shape all year round,” Carlton the club last year, has been in Winter school’s $10 for students/senior citizens cession said. Running Club since ninth grade. basketball $12 for adults stand, sou- This year the Running Club saw “I do Winter Running Club to Booster venirs from a decrease in the number of stay in shape for track and because Club and a Advanced tickets available at Shear Perfection the Wiz- participants with only about 30 it’s a good way to keep track of your chance to Hair Salon, The Montrose Publishing Com- ards, raffles runners signed up compared to last miles,” Cudo said. bring pany and Dan Ricci State Farm Agency, all put on by year’s 42 members. Even fewer Members of the club typically world re- located in Montrose, or e-mail at the cheer- members logged miles every day. run outside even during the winter nowned [email protected]. leaders, “This number [was] much lower months, with some exceptions such entertain- half-court than last year,” adviser, Jim Fluck as very low temperatures. ment to the community, according shots and lots of fun and tricks,” said. “Running in the cardio room is to Booster Club member Connie Mrs. Burgh says. “On the positive side…we [had] just not the same as running Burgh. The Harlem Wizards will also do a more dedicated group.” outside,” Carlton said. “We thought it would be a great a halftime, crowd participation show Club members organized after “I run on roads and trails around event for the local communities as and sign autographs at the end of Thanksgiving and ran until Feb. 28, the school in all types of weather many families have never had the the game. logging as many miles as they could conditions, including rain and snow. opportunity to see the Harlem The team will arrive in the area at in that time. “If it’s too bad and unsafe, I run Globetrotters, so this is a way for noon and visit the elementary Because of the lower number of inside on the treadmill,” Cudo said. us to let local families enjoy the same schools before going to the high participants this year, Mr. Fluck had Winter Running Club benefits sort of fun locally at a more afford- school. lowered the mileage goal for the year many students and encourages able price as a fundraiser,” Mrs. “They are going to the elemen- to 3,000 miles, down from last year’s staying in shape. Burgh says. tary schools to try to [create] some approximately 4,500 miles that were “The club is great for spring The seniors are looking forward excitement with the younger kids,” logged. athletes. It encourages them to stay to the event, they say. Mrs. Burgh says. “We not only hope At press time the club had in shape over the long winter. It is Photo: isaac8118/flickr.com “I’m excited to play,” post player this is a great fundraiser but we are logged a total of 1,300 miles. also great for students who are not An unidentified Harlem Wiz- Bridget McNamara says. “It will be also hoping that it will be a wonder- Junior Jimmy Baker, who has involved in other activities,” Mr. ard dunks the basketball dur- different from anything I’ve ever ful fun community event that our been in the Winter Running Club Fluck said. ing a game. done before.” kids will remember.” PAGE 8 MARCH 2009 METEOR CHRONICLE Sports By Sarah Feeney Spring Preview Staff Reporter Boys’ Tennis Bozzo, Davenport District The boys’ tennis team has been was also a problem with bees,” Coach Standingss practicing all winter long to become a Forys said. “They made the home more competitive team, according to dugout larger, so now the whole team Join Powerlifting new assistant coach Anne Mory. can fit in it.” By Mindy Johnson “We have been doing strength The JV team has also gotten Staff reporter Boys’ Basketball training, working out at the Bible something new: a coach. Substitute People typically don’t a competition held Feb. 7 at the The boys’ season ended Feb. Conference and playing in tourna- teacher Kelly Driscole is taking over associate girls with powerlifting, Clarks Summit Bench Press 20 when they fell to the ments at the Binghamton Tennis Club,” the team after previous coach, Kari Bell, but no one would be surprised Championship, Davenport won Riverside Vikings at home 46- Miss Mory said. “We hope to improve left on maternity leave. to see seniors Jamie Bozzo and first place and broke a state 31. With a season record of 14- upon last year’s season and have Despite having never coached Rachel Davenport lifting with record in the 16-17 age group 6, the team finished out its individual improvement on the team.” before, Ms. Driscole has the guys in the MAHS weight with a lift of 107 pounds. She season ranked seventh in the “Playing in the winter helps [the played the sport since she was six years room. also won overall female lifter. Lackawanna Conference. team] to improve because we...get more old, including through high school at When Coach Eric Stallings Bozzo placed first in the raw ...... experience,” sophomore Ryan Ochse Blue Ridge. Her senior year her team approached Bozzo about joining division, missing the state Girls’ Basketball said. made it to states. the school’s powerlifting team, record by only inches. The girls’ season ended Feb. 24 This season she is excited to coach she said yes because she “We work with the boys, and with a loss to Valley View 53- and hopes to share her knowledge of wanted to try the sport and they help us out if we need it,” 47. The Meteors finished out the game with the team. thought it would be fun, she Davenport said. their season ranked sixth in the “[This season] I hope the girls said. Bozzo asked Davenport, Senior Levi Tiffany, a first- Lackawanna Conference with Track work well together, learn the game and her cousin, if she would want year lifter and teammate, said a record of 14-9. The varsity track team has two new have fun,” Miss Driscole said. to join too because the cousins nothing has really changed coaches this season. High school are close and typically do a lot since the girls joined the team...... teachers Sean Castellani and Kristi of activities together. The added lifters strengthen the Wrestling Kropa have joined the program. Mr. “It feels good being one of team, he said. Senior Mike Rihl placed second Castellani is the new head coach, and the first girls to try it,” Bozzo The girls practice three or at District 2 competetion Feb. Ms. Kropa the new sprinting, mid- said. “It shows that not only four times a week. Every day 20-21 at Lake Lehman. distance and relay coach. The biggest challenge for the guys can do [lifting], but girls that they practice, they work on Districts 2 and 4 regional Mr. Castellani, who has coached boys’ varsity baseball team this season can too.” improving different areas. To competition was held Feb. 27- many athletes at all levels in track, has will be compensating for the loss of Davenport said lifting keeps prepare for competitions, they 28 at Williamsport. never experienced “the entire scene,” three pitchers from last year. her in shape for track. Each stretch and listen to music, ...... but is excited to coach, implement new “We are going to have to rely on week she adds five pounds to which helps them get in the right ideas, and have a successful season, guys who may not have as much the weight she is lifting. At mindset and to pump them up. he said. pitching experience at the varsity level practice she lifts 95-100 pounds, “You need to be in the right Eight MAHS swimmers “As a coaching staff, we’d like to as the pitchers we lost,” head coach and her maximum lift is 110 mindset to do well,” Davenport competed at districts as part see [the team] go far as a whole during Todd Legg said. pounds. After she finishes said. “You can’t be thinking of the Elk Lake Warriors’ the season and in districts,” Coach Because of the loss of pitchers who lifting, she does cardio. Bozzo about anything else except team. Junior Makenzie Kevin Kloss said. could throw complete games or close also lifts at approximately 100 lifting.” Dearborn and sophomore to it, this year the team will have to pounds. “Both Jamie and Rachel are Shannon Lay attended the make a large number of pitching Girls compete in powerlifting hard working,” Coach Stallings event Feb. 21. changes in each game with guys in two different groups: open said. “They are committed to The following weekend senior throwing a few innings and then division and age group divisions, bettering themselves but not Brenda King, junior Caroline Softball switching, according to Coach Legg. according to Coach Stallings. In only in powerlifting.” Link and sophomore Meghan This season the girls’ softball team “The younger pitchers have to Honeyford competed in the will have a new dugout to cheer their step up their game [this season] to ...... 200 medley relay; freshman team on in. replace the seniors that we lost,” Rina Nikolaidis in the 50 Two dugouts were built this winter sophomore James Churco said. Both the boys and girls freestyle, 200 free relay and by the high school custodians. Made Despite this challenge, the team ’ ’ 400 free relay; senior Jack out of concrete, the new dugouts are still has high hopes of winning the CYO varsity Rechlicz in the 200 medley larger for both the Meteors and their division and league, Coach Legg said. relay, 50 freestyle, 200 free opponents. The home dugout has extra “Last year we lost nine games by basketball teams relay and 400 free relay; and room for storing equipment ,according two runs or less. That was really hard finished first in junior Joe Hamernick in the to head coach Kim Forys. to take. Hopefully this year we can 100 freestyle, 500 freestyle “The old dugouts were in bad come through on those close games,” their divisions. and 400 free relay. condition; the wood was old and there senior Dylan Reed said. SPORTLIGHT Commentary Sports ‘Passion’ Misdirected? By Megan Henry Sports co-editor

The majority of interaction school. The behavior of both can attends most home games and some portive fans who are passionate Meteors, we have a problem— among schools and between a significantly impact the image of not away games, admits that he might about their sports in our district,” an image problem. school and the community occurs just the teams or sports they are look obnoxious to another team’s truant officer Sami Bourizk, who Lately several stories have during sports seasons. When representing but also our entire fans. He and the opposing team’s helps to provide security at sporting surfaced from people in and out of people from the community, such as student body and anyone within fans “talk a lot of crap,” he says. If events, says. the high school about the less than Mrs. Sorensen, enter the school, the community who is affiliated with he is disrespectful, he says, “It is But some fans are “passionate” favorable impressions some visitors more often than not, it’s to attend the school. just because I really get into the for the wrong reasons. have formed after witnessing some sporting events. Frequenting various sporting games…. Anything goes unless I am “Pretty much the only reason rather unflattering behavior. “I think most people [in high events throughout the school year about to get kicked out.” people go to a game is to make the Recently a 1993 MAHS graduate school] meet people from sports in to take pictures for the yearbook, But fans are not representing other team look bad,” junior and former athlete attended a home general,” senior Marion Huntley, Mrs. Lori Lass has witnessed a lot only themselves; they’re represent- Sammie Fowler says. “There aren’t sporting event with her young who spends almost every weekend of fan behavior and is disappointed ing the school and anyone who has a lot of people that go to cheer on children and was disgusted to see with either teammates or other friends by what she has seen, she says. ever been connected to it as well. our team.” blatant disrespect for a MAHS she’s met through sports, says. “I think fans are a key element “Whether you wear a uniform or When athletes put on their coach from his own team: players Many people would never come to the support of a team,” Mrs. Lass you sit in the stands, you represent jerseys or students wear their maroon rolling their eyes as he tried to talk in contact with people from other says, “and I’ve observed in the last the school,” Mrs. Lass says. “I and white, they become part of or their deciding that the huddle was schools without sports events. With year or two that fan behavior seems would like to think we put our best something bigger than them- not worth participating in at all and our proximity to the New York less supportive of the team and more behavior out there.” selves—a team, a school, a outrightly walking away. border, some people even get the taunting of the opposition. There’s People don’t always see the community. The athletes conducted chance to befriend athletes and fans more negativity among the fans with names on the backs of jerseys, but We can only hope that in the themselves so poorly that even the from schools such as Maine Endwell, personal taunts than there was in the maroon and white we wear and near future most people will see our opposing team and coaching staff Windsor and Chenango Valley. the past.” our actions, positive or negative, will fans in the same light that basketball noticed, Mrs. Bethany Sorensen Playing AAU (Amateur Athletic It is the “tough games where be noticed by somebody. referee Terry Brazill saw our players says. Union) basketball for a team based there’s a rivalry” where fans get the One mother of a player from a at the Elk Lake/Montrose game he “[Their disrespect] was so in the Southern Tier of New York, most out of hand, according to Mrs. neighboring school says Montrose worked at Elk Lake Feb. 12. blatant and ridiculous. I don’t know junior Sarah Kimsey has met girls Lass. It seems, she says, that is the only school on her daughter’s “... I don’t know when the last if I could sit through another game. whom she now considers “life-long particular opponents bring out bad schedule that she and some of her time was I saw so many players, from The kids should be embarrassed,” friends” whom she enjoys spending behavior as a result of a rivalry or teammates dread visiting because of both teams, helping each other up, Mrs. Sorensen says. “You might not time with off the court as well as on. general feeling for another school. the taunting they are subject to, talking to each other in a good way, agree with what your coach says, or “Sometimes we go out to eat, If a fan’s cheers become taunting particularly from student fans. This and just playing the game as it was even like your coach, but when and we go to watch each other’s or personal, “Security is supposed mom refused to give her name for meant to be played, without all the you’re in uniform, you should games,” Kimsey says. “Sometimes to kick them out immediately,” fear the taunting toward her nonsense which seems to be more always show a certain amount of we have sleepovers afterwards.” according to athletic director Joe daughter’s team would escalate and more the norm these days,” Mr. respect not only to the game but to And so our athletes and fans Gilhool. when the teams meet in the future. Brazill wrote in an e-mail to Super- your school and to your coaches.” are, in effect, ambassadors for our Senior Tony Bistocchi, who “[Montrose has] very…sup- intendent Mike Ognosky.