Student Press Awards

HIGH SCHOOLNEWSPAPER JOURNALISM

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LANCASTER NEWSPAPERS, INC.INTELLIGENCER JOURNAL • LANCASTER NEW ERA • SUNDAY NEWS8W. King St., P.O. Box 1328, Lancaster, Pa. 17608-1328

Seventh Annual Student Press Awards for

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■ VOL. 7 JUNE 3, 2012 NIE.LANCASTERONLINE.COM

ToddB.SpidleToddB.Spidle

COCALICOCHRONICLE CONESTOGA VALL EY

THE VALL EY VOICE

E-TOWNEXPRESSION

PENN MANORPENN POINTS JP MCCASKEY

VIDETTE

EPHRATAMOUNTA INE ER

LANCASTER MENNONITEMIL L STREAM

MANHE IM TOWNSH IPHI-L IT E LANCASTER CATHOL IC

THE RAMBLER

HEMPF I E LDTHE FLASH

INTE L L IGENCER JOURNAL/LANCASTER NEW ERA

FREESTYL E

LANCASTER COUNTRY DAY

THE FOURTH ESTATE

LAMPETER-STRASBURGL IMEL IGHT

Lancaster, Pa.SUNDAY NEWS STUDENT PRESS AWARDS2 • JUNE 3, 2012

Advisors of participating schools

Best Overall: Marv Adams & Gil SmartBest Front Page: Marv Adams & Gil SmartBest Cartoon: Todd Spidle Best Headline: Chip Smedley Best Editorial/Column: Eric Stark & Jo-Ann GreeneBest Feature Story: Mary Beth Schweigert & Jon Rutter Best News Story: Paula Wolf & Suzanne Cassidy Best Review: Michael LongBest Sports Story: Jim Hersh & Mike GrossBest Feature Photo: Justin David GraybillBest News Photo: Blain T. Shahan Best Sports Photo: Jeff RuppenthalEditors’ Picks: Suzanne Cassidy, Jo-Ann Greene, Mike

Gross, Eric Stark & Mary Beth Schweigert

Published every Sunday by Lancaster Newspapers, Inc. 8 West King Street, P.O. Box 1328, Lancaster, PA 17608-1328

Dear Readers,

Congratulations to all the high school journalists who entered their works in the seventh Sunday News Student Press Awards Contest.

You are all winners.

I say that because those of us in the “business” know how hard it is to put out a newspaper.

But not only do you get out the paper, you put out consistently interesting newspapers on subjects that aren’t always easy to report on. You don’t take the easy out.

What I noticed over these seven years is that high school writers, photographers and designers have continued to steadily improve and adapt. Stories have become deeper.

This year, a high school newspaper that is produced only online was entered in the contest. The future? We’ll see.

Media will change, but the basics and the need for writers, editors and photographers to tell the stories won’t change.

To all of you who entered this contest, I give you the highest praise when I say:

Your newspapers make me want to read them.

Marv AdamsEditorSunday News

Sunday News Student Press Awards Staff Janis Harrington

Marketing Specialist, Contest Coordinator Dr. Ann Marie Steele

Community Services ManagerTodd B. Spidle

Editorial Staff Artist/Sunday News

Jere Kimmich The Chronicle Cocalico High SchoolMelanie Upton The Valley Voice Conestoga Valley High SchoolMichele Henry E-town ExPRESSion Elizabethtown Area High SchoolGemma Rasmus & Mountaineer Ephrata High SchoolJeremy Bischoff Michael Pollis The Flash Hempfield High SchoolClaudia Esbenshade Freestyle Intelligencer Journal/Lancaster New EraAngela DePew & Limelight Lampeter-Strasburg High SchoolMichele Meyer Christine Heinbach Rambler Lancaster Catholic High SchoolCaroline Henderson The Fourth Estate Lancaster Country Day SchoolKris Horst Millstream Lancaster Mennonite High SchoolBrian McDonald Vidette J.P. McCaskey High SchoolMarty Pflieger Hi-Lite Manheim Township High SchoolSusan Baldrige Penn Points Penn Manor High School

Introducing the judges

NOTE: Articles may have been edited.Although we would have loved to print

every article in its complete form, we could not because of page constraints.

Division 1 ( 6+ issues/school year) Best Overall Newspaper — Penn Manor HSDivision 2 (1-2 issues/school year) Best Overall Newspaper — Lampeter-Strasburg HS

Lancaster, Pa. SUNDAY NEWS STUDENT PRESS AWARDS JUNE 3, 2012 • 3

The Cocalico ChronicleCocalico High School

Advisor: Jere Kimmich2nd Place: Division 1 — Best Feature StoryEmily Bowman, Grade 12

A beautiful girl is dressed in an elegant prom dress, holding hands with her handsome hero. They walk onto the dance floor with smiles from ear to ear.

Their dreams have come true, and it will be a memory they will remember forever.

The school year is coming to an end, but a fairy tale has come to life. Prom has arrived, and the hero knows he is with the most perfect girl.

This dream couldn’t happen if he didn’t figure out how to ask his princess.

“Magic” at promOne student was asked playing one

of his favorite games.Bleu Miller, a senior, and his friend

Casandra Aminto, a junior, were playing the game “Magic” after school, when Aminto turned to Miller. She asked him to explain what the card she had meant, Miller grabbed the card.

He realized there was a sticky note on it that spelled out the word “prom” with a question mark.

“I had to look at the card again to make sure I really saw what I was looking at: I was so surprised,” said Miller.

After realizing that he was asked to prom, Miller knew he had to give an answer.

“I said yes, of course,” said Miller.Happy St. “Patrick’s” DayAnother student decided to ask a

friend through something they both love, ice cream cake.

“He told me that ice cream cake was

his favorite, and cake always makes both of us happy,” said Lauren Bacon, a senior.

On St. Patrick’s Day, Bacon bought a cake for her friend Patrick Pettus, a sophomore. Printed on the cake was, “Happy St. Patrick’s Day. Prom?”

Pettus was taken off guard and had to do a double take.

“He jokingly told me maybe, but quickly said he was kidding and that he would love to go with me,” said Bacon.

Hidden Mickeys and hidden questions

Alex Dillion, a junior, thought about his girlfriend’s favorite thing when it came to asking her to prom.

Dillion set up hidden Mickey Mouses in each of her classrooms and on each Mickey was a letter. The letters eventually spelled out “prom.”

At the end of the day, Dillion approached his girlfriend Emily Brubaker, a sophomore, and handed her a piece of paper with a question mark on it. Brubaker said yes to being his date for prom.

Jumping to promSpencer Henry, a senior, decided to

get his friends involved in asking his friend, Emily Sensenig, to prom.

Henry had five of his friends hide behind the chairs in the high school’s auditorium. Each friend held a sign with a different letter on it while one held a question mark.

“I took her on stage, and once we got to the middle, my friends jumped from behind the seats holding their signs,” said Henry.

Together the signs spelled out “Prom?”

“I was speechless when I saw the signs, but I am so happy that he asked me,” said Sensenig, a sophomore.

Don’t leave him “hanging”Evan Hinkley, a senior, decided

to play a game with his friend, Carrie Sensenig, a sophomore.

During their cast party for the school musical, Guys and Dolls, Hinkley started a game of hangman with Sensenig.

There were five spaces for her to fill; Hinkley wanted her to figure out “Prom?”

“After she had filled in “Prom,” she guessed a question mark,” said Hinkley.

Since Sensenig was right, Hinkley then asked her if she would go to prom with him.

“She smiled at me and said yes. Now I am looking forward to being with all of my friends at prom,” said Hinkley.

Will the princess say yes to the hero?

Kam Mueller, a senior, believes in his fairy tale that prom should be spent with the most perfect person.

He wants to ask his princess to prom and have a magical evening with her.

“My perfect person is Jenna Sumar, and she is the only one I’d want to spend prom with, so Jenna, will you be my date for prom?” said Mueller.

Emily Bowman

Additional WinnersBecca Kase — 1st Place, Best Sports Photo (See page 11)

Patricia Saye — Editor’s Pick, Best Feature Story

Magical evening makes a dream come true for enchanted pair

MyCocalicoNews.com

Left to right, Front: Emily Bowman (Editor-in-chief), Jenna Weachter, Patricia Saye (Managing Editor)Left to right, Kneeling: Tristen Kinser, Rebecca Kase, Keegan Woyurka, Emma Witenski, Patricia DeanLeft to Right, Standing: Alex Leh, Casandra Aminto, Layne Gable, Krista Ploucher, Becky Sweigart, Kyle Foster, Sean Adams

Students find creative ways to ask friends to prom and look forward to the events ahead


The Valley VoiceConestoga Valley High School

Advisor: Melanie Upton 1st Place: Division 2 — Best Feature StoryRachel Ashmore, Grade 10

“In my free time or whenever I can squeeze it in, I try to run. It could be anywhere from 20 minutes to 2 hours but running is my peace of mind,” math teacher Brian McGrath explained. “With running, I need my shoes and a road (sometimes not even the shoes). It is a simple exercise to do, and it also allows me to think and clear my head while de-stressing at the same time. A stressful day may end up in a hard/fast run, and I feel better at the end. A good day may result in a gentle jog. Either way, running helps me stay in shape physically and mentally.”

His advice to students who plan to get healthy in the new year is a simple sum: diet + exercise = healthy.

“It takes both of these factors to stay healthy,” he advised. “Even the smallest bit of exercise can make you feel better as long as you are eating healthy. It does not take much to go for a 15-minute run. Find a partner and stick to a routine with them. Before you know it your 15 minute run is now a 30 minute run. Sooner or later you can conquer a 10K run if you wanted to. It is possible. Don’t say that it is not because it is. If you eat right and train just with

the smallest bit of effort and intent, you can do whatever you want.”

An expert on diet, family and consumer science teacher Jill Fortier described her system: “To stay healthy, I work out regularly and try my best to eat well. I take Zumba classes, which is fun and a great workout all in one.”

Zumba, a hot new trend, is a kind of dance workout. Fortier emphasizes the enjoyment factor when choosing a plan.

“I encourage students to find something they ENJOY doing,” she explained. “Working out should not be a chore. It should be fun!! Set goals (even if they are small) and surround yourself with other people that will help support you.”

Jeannie Hartranft has also surrounded herself with others who want to exercise, but she is the one lending the support. This is no surprise since learning support is her role at the high school.

“I practice yoga at least twice a week while I teach an hour long class, and I take at least one 90-minute class a week. I have recently begun taking a tae-kwon do class once a week with my family and sometimes my kids even come to yoga class with me! My daughter, Rebecca, and I were recently in a class where we did partner poses and flying (think circus). She loves it, and it’s showing her that she is strong enough to help an adult in a headstand!”

Like McGrath, she combines a healthy diet with her workouts.

“I eat mostly what I like, but fortunately I like veggies and unprocessed food. I stay away from food that I can’t recognize where it came from. We also try to grow our favorite food and then can them for the winter.”

Hartranft sees health as a total of

body and mind.“I meditate, but not as much as I

would like to, and I go to church. I think realizing that we’re all a part of something bigger than ourselves is important to keeping life in perspective.”

Hartranft’s advise to students is to take a “balanced” approach.

“Of course I would tell everyone to practice yoga,” she smiled. “I think students should do what they love. Being healthy isn’t just about being able to run a few miles or bench press a certain weight. As human beings, we are a total package and we each need to find our own balanced approach to taking care of our minds, bodies, and spirits. Taking care of the inside is just as important as taking care of the outside.”

Rachel Ashmore

Additional WinnersKelsea Burkholder — 1st Place, Best Feature Photo (See page 10)

Laura Ordonez — 1st Place, Best News Photo (see page 10)Shayna Burkholder — 2nd Place, Best Feature Photo

Chris Engel — 3rd Place, Best Feature StoryThe Valley Voice — 3rd Place, Best Overall

A teacher’s guide to make 2012 a healthy year

MyConestogaValleyNews.com

Left to Right: Shayna Burkholder, Chris Engel, Gage Martin, Damian Hondares, Mel Upton, Brandon Le, and Rachel Ashmore.

The most common New Year’s resolution centers on working out and eating right. These teachers share how they plan to stay healthy in 2012, and what you can do to keep healthy, too.


The Fault in Our Stars:A faultless book

Milton Hershey denies student with HIV

First Place: Division 2 — Best ReviewMegan Hess, Grade 10

1st Place: Division 2 — Best News StoryCarmelle Martin, Grade 11

Hazel Lancaster has cancer. She’s 16 and would be dead already if it weren’t for a miracle drug. But, eventually, the cancer will kill her … and she knows it.

In the meantime, she rereads An Imperial Affliction, a book which could be described as her touchstone, and goes to cancer support group meetings, waiting for her name to be added to the list of members who passed on … and then she meets Augustus Waters.

He’s gorgeous and sexy and smart ... and oh, did I mention he only has one leg? Like any predictable and sappy teen romance, they fall in love … But The Fault in Our Stars by John Green is so much more than this horrible predictable moment! It’s bittersweet, yet innovative, and, at times, gut-bustingly hilarious. Hazel and Gus’s romp to Amsterdam to meet the author of An Imperial Affliction, Peter Houton, is jam-packed with romantic moments, from sweet (a memorable dinner) to sexy Gus’s Venn Diagram — (it’s hard to explain if you haven’t read the book) that are a nice aside to the seriousness of the visit … and everything grave that comes later.

I can’t reveal how it ends — that’s part of the punch of The Fault in Our Stars — but I can say that you’ll definitely need a box of tissues nearby, even if you’re reading it for the second or third time.

I loved The Fault in Our Stars. The whole book, to quote Gus, was “on a roller coaster that only goes up,” not in its depressing, tear-jerking, subject matter, but in the skillful way Mr.

Green handled it, unlike a typical “cancer book.”

While definitely not a John Green fan, for I was extremely disappointed by both Looking for Alaska and his collaboration novel with David Leviathan, Will Grayson, Will Grayson, and, for some reason never finished An Abundance of Katherines. I had high expectations for The Fault in Our Stars.

Yes, it’s predictable, and it will make you sob, but it’s a fresh view on living with, and dying of, cancer. One of its most redeeming qualities is its realism. Hazel, Gus, Gus’s blind best friend, Isaac and his gorgeous, cancer-free girlfriend all seem like people you could meet in everyday life. And, *spoiler*, An Imperial Affliction is not a real book. I even checked for it on Amazon.

In short, The Fault in Our Stars is a marvelous book that turns no one away. It’s one of those rare gems, a YA novel, that can cross the bridge into adult literature and go back again. When Green’s inevitable passing someday comes, The Fault in Our Stars may easily be listed as his crowning achievement, the best novel of his career.

The best and worst part of all? The book has been optioned for a movie by Fox by the producers of Twilight.

It is such a great read, but if they make Gus sparkle, my new favorite cancer book is ruined.

Additional WinnersKatie Solomon/Carmelle Martin — 2nd Place, Best Editorial/Column

Jane Beenenga — 2nd Place, Best Feature StoryCole Tomarri — 3rd Place, Editorial/Column

Katherine Dunkleberger — 3rd Place, Best Sports StorySydney Musser — 3rd Place, Best Review

He was the ideal applicant: honor student, athlete, and raised in a low income household. Only one factor held this 13-year-old back for being accepted to Milton Hershey in Hershey. He is HIV-positive.

The school admits boys and girls of any race, color, and religion, but refused to accept this child because he is HIV-positive.

According to the school’s website, the admission criteria is as follows;

• Come from a family of low income, limited resources, and social need

• Between the ages of 4-15 years old• Free of serious emotional and

behavioral problems• Able to take part in the school’s

programs• Born in the United StatesEven though the youth passed

the admission requirements, school officials stated, “He would pose a direct

threat to the health and safety of other students,” according to pennlive.com.

New York state senator, Todd Duane, disagrees.

“I’m horrified, but unfortunately, not surprised. There’s still terrible stigma and discrimination and ignorance about HIV and how it is spread,” Duane said.

He is also HIV positive. The boy is currently taking five

pills and one vitamin each day, making the transmission of the disease 95 percent impossible, according to watchingthegov.com.

Last week, the AIDS Law Project of Pennsylvania filed suit on behalf of

Left to Right, Front — Cole Tamarri, Amolene KouKou, Sydney Musser, Briana Dohner.Left to Right, Center — Arthur Quaye, Emily Greenly, Adrienne Groff, Megan Hess.Left to Right, Top — Jane Beenenga, Averie Nawa, Cassie Zaiac, Katie Solomon, Belen Montgomery.Missing from photo — Katie Dunkleberger, Julia Spittal, Carmelle Martin, advisor Michele Henry

E-town ExPRESSionElizabethtown Area High School

Advisor: Michele Henry

MyElizabethtownNews.com- continued on page 6

Carmelle Martin

Megan Hess


MyElizabethtownNews.com

the student. Ronda Goldfein, executive director, said the school is violating his civil rights and the Americans With Disabilities Act. Junior Nick Smay opposes the administration’s decision. “They have a right to deny the kid since it’s a private school, but it’s not right that they did that in the first place,” he said.

The defendant reacted similarly.“What they did was wrong,” the

student told Philadelphia’s WCAU. “They put me through emotional distress. I feel that no other teenager should go through this, being denied just because they have HIV.”

Freshman Jenna Luzier empathizes with the infected student. “There is no reason to not accept someone into the school because HIV is something that everyone should be aware of and be able to use precautions to protect themselves from. That’s like not accepting someone into a school because they have a venereal disease; it’s pointless,” she said.

“Our students are no different than any other teen-agers. On our campus, in our unique controlled environment, if one of our students is engaging in sexual activity, the odds are it is with another student, and we have parental responsibility for all of those children,” Connie McNamara, vice president of communications for Milton Hershey, said.

Refuting this idea, Goldfein said, “The law is clear that you can’t segregate kids simply because they have HIV. The idea that Milton Hershey School thinks risk somehow changes after dark is really absurd,” she said, according to cnn.com.

The school’s mission, according to mhs-pa.org, is to give children advantages they otherwise would not have and states they are “dedicated to helping their students lead productive and fulfilling lives.”

“We acknowledge this is a difficult decision,” McNamara said.

The school’s lawyer had planned to ask the court to declare that it had not violated the Americans with Disabilities Act. According to pennlive.com, the AIDS Law Project is asking the judge to do the opposite. The group wants the court to require the admission of the student, be forced to conduct school-wide sensitivity training, and pay both costs and unspecified punitive damages to the student and mother.

The court date has not yet been set.

Every high school has a rivalry with some other high school; for E-town some say Donegal (DHS) is one of the biggest. Although Donegal isn’t even in the same Section as E-town in competitive school sports, some teams continue to face Donegal during their athletic season.

“I think we should play [Donegal] more often. Since we’re so close, you know more people, and it’s a little bit more personal,” sophomore Alex Good said.

Donegal, being a miniscule 8.5 miles, or 17 minutes away, from E-town, leads some to believe that the schools were meant to be rivals. E-town students encounter their Donegal rivals at the E-town Fair, on wing night, at the E-town movie theater, and at countless sporting events; with so much contact between these schools, a rivalry was bound to be born.

“Compare it to the Eagles and Steelers; they don’t play each other often, but the fact that they make up Pennsylvania has brought them into a rivalry. It’s the same here. We want to prove we are the better school in this area. It’s like you are not supposed to like each other automatically, but that’s a part of sports,” Kurtis Mumma, DHS senior, said.

Other students agree. “There might be a little more of a rivalry just because [E-town and Donegal] school districts are so close, and we interact with people from both schools. To some it may be a friendly rivalry and to others a more competitive rivalry,” DHS senior Renee Censier said.

When it comes to sporting events, both schools are eager to beat the competition. “At our school, athletes always say they want to beat E-town and try really hard to be victorious

because they all know E-town is a very good competitor. I mean there is always a little bit of trash talking and cockiness, but I’m sure that happens on both ends!” Censier added.

Students may not even have a distinct reason for their hatred of their rival. However, they may still feel abhorrence toward them regardless of a legitimate reason.

“There’s just a feeling in the air that when you talk about the other school, you’re just like ‘I’m not supposed to like them.’ I think it has become a widespread idea that Donegal and E-town should dislike one another. Not that I have anything against the school, but it’s not as though I’ll be rooting for them any time,” Mumma said.

Both Donegal and E-town may say negative things about each other, but positive relationships have also been built between the schools.

“I have some friends from [Donegal]. Also, there are people from E-town who are in relationships with Donegal students, so we don’t dislike everyone there,” junior Taylor Mohr said.

However, relationships don’t affect the schools’ rivalry during sports competition.

“When it comes to sports, it’s a different thing completely. I know when the girls’ soccer team scrimmages Donegal in the beginning of the season, we’re all pumped, and we can’t wait to pull out a win against them,” Mohr said.

Other E-town athletes find this rivalry pointless.

“I have no feelings toward [Donegal] because we do not play them; I would rather save my competitiveness for teams we actually play. I also think a lot of people just want a rival so we have something to talk about, but I think

it’s pointless because we don’t play them [in field hockey],” sophomore Gina Miller said.

Although some E-town students may dislike Donegal, they admit their jealousy about Donegal’s school spirit.

“We have spirit days, but not a lot of students take part in them. I think it would be cool to see more of the students dressing up when we have our spirit days. When football games come around, everyone gets pumped up with face paint, and we cheer the whole game; then you have other sports like basketball where we all pretty much just sit there,” Mohr said.

Junior Jacki Sallade agrees that E-town’s spirit seems minimal versus their highly spirited competitor. “I think E-town’s sports teams severely lack spirit. This may seem insignificant, but when you’re playing a close game, spirit is what can pull you through to be the winners or break you down. I think that Donegal has a lot more pride in their school; everyone participates in spirit days there,” Sallade said.

Most Donegal students reportedly show support to their athletic teams by wearing their school colors and making sure they are always at every sporting event.

“The school spirit [at Donegal] is absolutely superb. We have the best student section in the county, possibly even the state, hands down,” Joey Jaskot, DHS junior, said.

According to Mumma, Donegal’s principal, John L. Felix, Jr., even said the student section has “mojo.”

Rival schools still feuding

1st Place: Division 2 — Best Sports StoryCassandra Zaiac, Grade 11

Cassandra Zaiac

Hershey- continued from page 5

E-town ExPRESSionElizabethtown Area High School

Advisor: Michele Henry


MountaineerEphrata High School

Advisors: Gemma Rasmus & Jeremy Bischoff

Nothing new from The Fray2nd Place: Division 2 — Best ReviewDeb Martin, Grade 12

Additional WinnersBest Overall Newspaper, 2nd Place

Abby Miles — Editor’s Pick, Best EditorialLindsay Zwally — Editor’s Pick, Best Review

Left to Right, Front: Gary May, Amanda Leimeister, Sophia Fast, Abby Miles, Laura Miller. Left to Right, Back: Keila Mankins, Hannah Matangos, David Marchino, Gabo Murcia, Hugh Good, Kaitlyn Tothero. Missing from photo: Ethan Hartranft, Noah Hippensteel, Deb Martin, Karly Soldner, Lindsay Zwally.

2nd Place: Division 2 — Best Front Page

MyEphrataNews.com

After the popularity of the songs “Over My Head” and “How to Save a Life” from their first release in 2005, The Fray has become a well-known name in the music world. Their third album, Scars and Stories, was released on Feb. 7, 2012. You may like Scars and Stories if you’re looking for almost an exact replica of The Fray’s previous two albums; if you are not, you will be disappointed.

I am a fan of The Fray, and I was looking forward to more of the thoughtful lyrics and beautiful melodies that they have delivered in the past. I wasn’t expecting almost every song of Scars and Stories to feel like it was created by the same formula as the last. Unique is definitely not the word I would use to describe it, as most of the songs are pretty forgettable. There are really only a few worth mentioning.

Scars and Stories opens with “Heartbeat,” the first single from this album. The inspiration for this song came from an experience that Isaac Slade, front man of the band, had while traveling in South America. He was listening to a woman share a personal tale related to the genocide in Rwanda. During her story she took Slade’s hand, and he felt a heartbeat but could not tell whether the pulse was his own or the woman’s. Upon first listen, “Heartbeat” didn’t catch my attention. However, when I heard it on a commercial later I found myself singing along, I think once I become comfortable with the melody it will be easy for me to like it more.

After grazing past the second generic track, the third song, “Turn Me On,” actually caught my attention the first time I listened. Its funky drive is reminiscent of Maroon 5, and it only lasts about three minutes, comparatively shorter and sweeter than the rest of the songs.

I think if The Fray had concentrated on making more tracks sound a little more like this one, the album would have been significantly improved.

Four songs later, I found what I love most from The Fray in “I Can Barely Say,” — wonderful piano mixed with Isaac Slade’s chilling falsetto. My only complaint about it is that they play up the drama in the song by adding an orchestra in the background, which takes away from the rawness and depth that could have made this song a true winner.

“Here We Are” and “1961” take a pleasant turn away from the piano and focus on guitars. Although they’re not the catchiest songs ever, I appreciate the slight change of style and pace.

In short, I will probably not be adding Scars and Stories to my list of favorites. Perhaps as I give the album a few more listens some of the melodies will stick in my head, but I maintain that in the future I hope The Fray will use more creativity and produce music that is of higher quality.

Deb Martin


2nd Place: Division 1 — Best CartoonElliot Hirsch, Grade 12

FreestyleIntelligencer Journal/Lancaster New Era

Advisor: Claudia Esbenshade1st Place: Division 1 — Best EditorialHaley Blazer, Grade 12

Additional WinnersHaley Blazer — 1st Place, Best Feature Photo (See page 10)

Elliot Hirsch — 1st Place, Best Cartoon (See page 11)Elliot Hirsch — 3rd Place, Best Cartoon

Left to Right, Front: Cody Benjamin, Eric Dowling, Haley Blazer, Troy Diffenderfer, Alexander Sanchez-CruxLeft to Right, Back: Erika Glass, Julia Goussetis, Sarah Mohler, Molly Gertenbach, Erin Ipsen

Simply put, I have a passion for firsts.

It can be driving on a new road or reading the climax of a book for the first time. I love tasting new foods and seeing new places. I consider it to be the less extreme version of thrill-seeking (although I would love to test out skydiving).

But when I break it down, I think my passion extends beyond merely doing things a first time. What I really love is expanding the boundaries of my comfort zone. I love the feeling of accomplishment that comes with tackling each new experience. It encourages me to seek out new firsts, and it makes me happy.

With the extra time my gap-year has given me, I have been able to pursue my passion abroad. In November I was in a world of firsts. For the first time, I was outside the United States. For the first time, I was in a place where the primary language spoken wasn’t English. I spent a month in Bordeaux, France, staying with a girl I met for the first time the day I arrived. I found myself surrounded by a different culture where every street was a new street. Never had I ventured so far beyond my own comfort zone, but that’s what I loved most about my trip.

I am proud of myself for merely getting to Bordeaux in one piece. My plane arrived in Paris at 6:30 a.m., after a night of no sleep. Still, I managed to haul my luggage (without losing, spilling or breaking anything) through the proper terminals of the Charles De Gaulle airport and into the train station. I had my first dollars converted to Euros successfully. I had to pay to use the public restroom. I was pretty confused when I ordered my first coffee and got handed a tiny cup of espresso. Actually, I was confused about a lot of things, but somehow I boarded the proper

high-speed TGV train, passport and money still intact, and set off for Bordeaux.

In my travels, new firsts keep throwing themselves at me. I enjoyed seeing which ones I could adapt to. For instance, I had no problems embracing French food.

Fresh baguettes, cheese, little pastries, what’s not to enjoy? I also adjusted well to the thin walls of my host’s flat: the garbage collector clattered down the narrow street on Tuesday mornings, and each night around eight, the through-the-wall neighbor serenaded me on the piano. I finally wandered the streets enough to form a rough mental map of the city’s layout.

But, a major area was lacking. I didn’t pick up much of the French language during my stay. My inability to understand what was written and spoken around me posed challenges, but I adapted and learned to get by with a lot of common sense and a few poorly-pronounced phrases. I did a pretty decent job blending in with the local crowd until I opened my mouth to speak. Maybe, in time, the French language will fall within my realm of familiarity, but for now it remains a string of new and euphonic sounds.

And for firsts, there is no end. My passion to expand my comfort zone is an inexhaustible source of possibility. For every new experience I have, a thousand others wait in the wings. Each brings with it new knowledge and a more complete understanding of what’s around me. The world is a tremendous playground; there will always be new people to meet, words to speak, foods to taste and places to see. All I have to do is tow my line of familiarity, gather my wits about me and take the leap.

Passion of firsts

Haley Blazer

Elliot Hirsch


The FlashHempfield High School

Advisor: Mike Pollis3rd Place: Division 1 — Best Sports StoryMegan McGuire, Grade 10

In the last month, historic scandal has rocked the NFL community. The New Orleans Saints, known for their Superbowl XLIV victory, conducted an illegal bounty system of paying players to hurt opponents and take them out of the game.

According to a Sports Illustrated article from March 2012, the NFL suggests that in the last three seasons, between 22 and 27 Saint players participated. Payoffs of $1,000 extra for a cart-off off the field, and $1,500 were given to anyone who knocked someone out of the game.

“[The bounty system] gives the sport a bad name,” states Hempfield football coach Ron Zeiber. “It gives the integrity of the sport just a black eye.”

Zeiber has been coaching football for 26 years. He says how this contrasts with the principles he teaches through football: honesty, making right decisions, and being a good person.

Unfortunately, bounties may not be hard to imagine in the NFL. Zeiber says they use the system in order to motivate players to keep sharp in the game. It makes the game more exciting and gives players more of an incentive to make tackles.

Motivate players? It is ridiculous how football’s morals are twisted so badly. Football is a great pastime for Americans to watch, and the terrible thing is, all the hard hits and tackles make the headlines, and get the attention. It is horrible how the only way to make players work harder is to pay them to hurt someone. The game should be fun to play and to watch. If the fabric of the game now consists of taking out players, what has the game come to?

A lot of people involved with the Saints program realized what was going on but did not do anything about the situation. The Saints’ defensive coordinator, Gregg Williams, was in charge of the system.

Williams said, “It was a terrible mistake, and we knew it was wrong while we were doing it. Instead of getting caught up in it, I should have stopped it.”

It’s just an apology. Someone saying “sorry!” to players who were hurt during this.

A major focus is on the fact that during

the game before the acclaimed Superbowl win against the Minnesota Vikings, there was a bounty of $10,000 to anyone who knocked quarterback Brett Favre out of the game.

During the game, Favre was taken down and injured, but still returned to the game. Two players were given $25,000 fines for improper hits on him. It threw his game off, and some are arguing that the Saints won easier.

Could this be considered cheating? Opinions clash, though, on the fact of how everyone at any time is going for quarterbacks, and payments may not have fueled the tackle.

But the fact is, people are getting hurt. In the past year, the NFL has focused on concussion prevention and safer hits in the game. This bounty system makes the whole program seem hypocritical, for it is dreadful to push safety when coaches and coordinators push otherwise.

Paul Pettay, a Lancaster chiropractor, has worked on NFL teams such as the Pittsburgh Steelers, Philadelphia Eagles, and Baltimore Ravens to name a few. He says most injuries he treats pro footballers for are shoulders, hips and hip flexors, groins, hamstrings, and spines and necks. High school player injuries include hamstrings, calves, hips and hip flexors, groins, spines and necks.

“The NFL is making a statement that they don’t want this to become a common place in their game,” explains Pettay. From a trainer’s standpoint, he points out how no one wants to be responsible for ending someone’s career. “They all understand the risks they are taking by playing pro football and all accept it.

These players involved with the bounties are role models for young kids playing football. Children look up to them, and to hear that those players hurt the decency of the game is a huge blow. Parents do not want their kids learning bounties from their favorite players, and the sport could take a drastic turn, with young ones questioning what is right and wrong in the game.

Additional WinnersBest Overall Newspaper — 2nd Place

Kassidy Rineer — Editor’s Pick, Best Feature Story

1st Place: Division 1 — Best Front Page

Megan McGuire

MyHempfieldNews.com

The Flash Editors: Left to Right, Front: Ashley Shirk; Sara Gambone; Rachael Herman; Brittney Jacques; Alissa LeLeft to right, Back: Samantha Eck; Christine Vahaly; Julia Gousettis; Kelly Aksu; Mia Shepperson; Jayce Rudig-Leathers; Heather Vogel

Do bounties disgrace football?


Kelsea Burkholder, Grade 12The Valley Voice, Conestoga Valley HS

Advisor: Melanie Upton

Haley Blazer, Grade 12Freestyle

Advisor: Claudia Esbenshade

Alicia Ygarza, Grade 12Hi-Lite, Manheim Township HS

Advisor: Marty Pflieger

Best Feature Photo - Division 2Best Feature Photo - Division 1

Best News Photo - Division 1 Best News Photo - Division 2

Haley Blazer

Alicia Ygarza

Kelsea Burkholder

Laura Ordonez

Laura Ordonez, Grade 12The Valley Voice, Conestoga Valley HS

Advisor: Melanie Upton


Rebecca Kase, Grade 12The Cocalico Chronicle, Cocalico HS

Advisor: Jere Kimmich

Best Sports Photo - Division 1

Best Cartoon - Division 1 Best Sports Photo - Division 22nd Place

Elliot Hirsch, Grade 12 Freestyle

Advisor: Claudia Espenshade

Lauren Lennox, Grade 12Hi-Lite, Manheim Township HS


Best Sports Photo - Division 2

Lauren Lennox, Grade 12Hi-Lite, Manheim Township HS

Advisor: Marty PfliegerLauren Lennox

Elliot Hirsch

Rebecca Kase


VidetteJ.P. McCaskey High School

Advisor: Brian McDonald

Did you learn something today? This question has been posed to me by my grandfather every day I’ve seen him for as long as I can remember. I usually either say no, mostly as a cop out because I don’t want to think back to my long school day, or I try to come up with some random fact that slightly interested me that day in school.

But lately, a friend of mine who is in college asked me the same question. “Did you learn anything in school today?” I immediately frowned and thought of my grandfather, but it got me thinking about some simple questions.

What is the purpose of going to school? Well, learning. That seemed pretty obvious to me. So in a given day at school, how much learning goes on? Usually, when not restricted by 4Sights or PSSAs or fire drills, a lot. And in some of my classes, I always feel like I learn something new every day. But why do I learn these things. Well, for me, it is so I can get a good grade in the class, hopefully an A and move on and graduate and go to a good college. This answer made me stop and think.

According to my mindset right now, I want to “learn” so I can get a good grade. If you think about it that is pretty sad. I mean, am I really actually learning any permanent ideas if I just need to know them for a test or quiz? Am I really doing my best, or am I just putting forth the bare minimum effort

in order to get an A? And maybe that is how I feel. But I know there are other grade-focused students out there who strive for that perfect GPA, check for class rank almost daily, and learn in order to pass the test.

But shouldn’t we be learning for the sake of knowledge and betterment? Shouldn’t we want to learn because we want to know more? Maybe this is the fault of the ever-growing stress around going to college, or the pressure to perform well on SATs or PSSAs. Or maybe it’s just what senior year and my own pressure on myself has done to me. I don’t know. But as I am reaching graduation, I’ve realized, and it may sound shocking, that grades aren’t the most important thing. Learning is, or it should be. Growing and becoming a more educated and contributing member of society is more important than a 4.0.

And for seniors, who are striving to keep up those mid-year grades that colleges will look at, try to keep in mind that they are not as important as genuine learning is. And we should always focus on how what you have learned today, can help you tomorrow. Sorry for the cheesiness, but, McCaskey, what have you learned today?

1st Place: Division 1 — Best HeadlineJake Moore, Grade 12

Maddy Scott

2nd Place: Division 1 — Best EditorialMaddy Scott, Grade 12

Additional WinnersSam Donnellon — 2nd Place, Best Sports PhotoTrevor Hall — 2nd Place, Best Feature Photo

Trevor Hall — 2nd Place, Best News PhotoAmanda Lam — 3rd Place, Best News Story

Cameron deWet — Editor’s Pick, Best Sports StoryTracey Nguyen — Editor’s Pick, Best News Story

Left to Right: Callen Wendler, Zoey Lynch, Aidan Coco, Blaise Glover, Justin Vega, Evan Hohenwarter, Cameron de Wet, Sam Donnellon, Jake Moore, Emily Behr, Hannah Moore, Tracey Nguyen, Devonne Pinkard, Trevor Hall, Scott Sprunger, Gabby McCue, and Maddy Scott.

What have you learned today?

“When there’s a Will, there’s a way

Editor’s Pick: Division1 — Best Cartoon Scott Sprunger, Grade 12

Scott Sprunger

Jake Moore

MyLancasterNews.com


Dr. Rimmer: Story behind one shocking morning

LimelightLampeter-Strasburg High School

Advisors: Angela Depew & Michele MeyerEditor’s Pick: Division 2 — Best Feature StoryLuis Otero, Grade 12

2nd Place: Division 2 — Best News PhotoNikki Thompson, Grade 11

Additional WinnersBest Overall Newspaper — 1st Place

Best Front Page — 3rd PlaceNicole Perozich — Feature Photo, 3rd Place

Mary Shiffer — News Photo, 3rd Place

Left to Right, Front: Taylor Mikus, David Griffith, Mary ShifferLeft to Right, Back: Jeff Herr, Madeline Buddendorf, Haley Duryee, Tristan Long, Nikki Thompson, Marketa Prokopova, Alyanna Padilla

After dropping his daughter off at school in the morning on a normal day, Dr. Rimmer never would have thought he would end up in the hospital. His day started off like any other day. He parked in the back row of the parking lot by the main gym, so his daughter could put her sports bag in a friend’s car.

Afterwards, he headed to the high school’s main office, where he began to feel woozy and have trouble breathing. He started thinking he was having a seizure but didn’t believe he had any symptoms like past experiences. But just to be on the safe side, he tried to make his way to the grass so if it was a seizure, he would be safer.

As soon as he stopped walking, he suddenly dropped to his knees and blacked out. The last thing Dr. Rimmer remembered hearing were the voices saying they had called 911 and the ambulance was on the way. He was never really sure whom the voices belonged to but later found out it was Justin Propst and his mom, Kim Propst.

After coming to, the ambulance and police were by his side, along with Mrs. Lutz, Mrs. Book, Mr. Spencer, and Mrs. Swarr (who at the time was at the middle school and rushed over when she heard the news). The doctors began to ask Dr. Rimmer questions to see if he suffered a seizure, and they were in awe that he was able to answer all questions correctly. People who have seizures aren’t really able to remember the basics after coming to, like the day and year it is.

He was then taken to Lancaster General Hospital, where they took CT scans of his lungs, an eco-cardiogram of his heart and an ultrasound of his leg.

After all the tests, they found that Dr. Rimmer had blood clots from his mid-thigh, down his left leg. The clots in his legs broke off and flowed into his lungs and filled the arteries, which caused him to have trouble breathing.

With the amount of clots in his lungs, the doctors declared that Dr. Rimmer had a massive pulmonary embolism or P.E., which is when the main arteries in the lungs get blocked or clogged. Doctors said that with all the clots Dr. Rimmer had, he was close to losing his life, but his strong heart kept pumping blood through all the clots to keep the blood flowing.

During the six days Dr. Rimmer was hospitalized, his kidney had shut down due to low blood flow, since his heart was focused on his heart, and also his liver gave out. After four days, his kidneys and liver began to function again. The doctors began to focus on the blood clots and thought Dr. Rimmer had a clotting disorder, but later found that the clotting was from a past knee surgery. To prevent future clotting in his lungs, the doctors inserted a filter where the main arteries in his legs connect.

To this day so far, Dr. Rimmer has been doing great. It is said that he will be back to normal in six months. Just imagine, a single blood clot can kill someone and Dr. Rimmer’s MRI picture of the clots in his lungs looked like a country night sky full of stars. We can all say God was on his side.

Nikki Thompson

Luis Otero

MyLampeterStrasburgNews.com


The truth: Teen depression and suicide

Seniors: The final push to the finish line

2nd Place: Division 2 — Best News StoryAlex Cook, Grade 12

Editor’s Pick: Division 2 — EditorialAlex Cook, Grade 12

RamblerLancaster Catholic High School

Advisor: Christine Heinbach

During the Aevidum assembly several weeks ago, the LCHS community was alerted to the prominent issue of depression and suicide, especially in teenagers. At the assembly, members of the new student organization informed the school that “depression is an illness.” In retrospect, it seems like such a simple fact, yet many teens fail to realize this until it is too late.

However, it is never too late to make a difference. Spreading knowledge of the issues of teen depression and suicide is the best weapon to combat this horrible affliction and save lives. It is the only way to ensure a bright, safe, and happy future to all the members of the next generation.

As the students of Aevidum revealed at the assembly, suicide is the third most common cause of death among high school and college students (Only accidents and homicide claim more lives each year). This is primarily due to the challenging and often confusing times that teenagers experience at this point in their lives. For the first time, the pressures of society and the burdens of responsibility are lowered onto their shoulders. The inevitable struggle of “fitting in” is also a difficult obstacle for many.

Often, family struggles at home can negatively affect teens. Death, divorce, abuse, or simply an unloving environment can hurt teens. When all these complex factors are summed up, it puts enormous stress on their psychology, which then begins to affect the way they perceive themselves. This can eventually lead to depression and even suicide.

Knowing the warning signs of suicide is especially important. Suicides do not just happen randomly. There is often a characteristic set of symptoms that can be observed by family or even friends. In many cases, though, these people do not realize that their loved one may be

contemplating suicide, either due to ignorance of the facts or overlooking the gravity of the issue, thinking that it will get better on its own. This is a huge mistake. It is very important to act quickly and decisively if somebody is suffering from these symptoms.

According to kidshealth.org, the warnings of suicide include talking about suicide and death, withdrawing from family and friends, feeling depressed, engaging in dangerous practices, such as drug or alcohol use, and altered sleeping and eating habits.

Although these symptoms are relatively standard, how a teen reacts to these symptoms can often be quite different. This division is especially apparent between boys and girls. While more girls attempt suicide than boys, a higher percentage of boys die. This is due to the method of the attempted suicide. In general, girls usually try to overdose or cut themselves, while boys tend to gravitate toward more dangerous methods, such as guns. Whatever the case may be, it does not diminish the fact that a person’s life is at stake and can never be reclaimed once it is gone.

Teenage suicide and depression is a widespread issue in modern society. Sooner or later, every child must learn to face the pressures of the world. However, for some, it is too much. Their encounters damage them to the point where they believe their only option to get out of their situation is death. Sadly, many have died going down this path.

However, students can rally together to make a positive impact on others and “get each other’s backs.” Many special thanks go out to Aevidum for tackling this tough issue head on. Together, we can make a difference.

With the arrival of spring it feels very different to be a senior rather than an underclassman. I have finally realized how limited my time is in the halls of LCHS. Before I know it, I will be taking those steps to receive my diploma. Next I will be off to college, where I will face new people, places, and challenges.

Before I get way ahead of myself, I’ve got to stay grounded in reality. The truth is that graduation is still a while away. Between now and that day lies tests, projects, AP exams, and a mountain of other various forms of school world. My calendar is full of events with my family and friends.

The things I have just described are far from unique to me; my fellow classmates are also experiencing the exact same thing. Although our classes, activities, and circles of friends vary widely, we share much in common.

We’re hearing back from colleges and finalizing our plans for next year.

And while I do admit that it is very tempting to take the lazy approach and just coast along to graduation, I think that we can all do better than that.

Looking back over these past four years at how much we have accomplished and how much we have all grown during our time at LCHS convinces me that we can spend these last weeks accomplishing even more.

The more I think about it, the more I am convinced that it would be a shame to finish on such a weak note when we are capable of so much more. We only get to live through high school once, so we might as well make the most of it.

With how busy we all are anyway, graduation will be here before we know it.

Linn Budusky, Caroline Norelli, Anne Marie DeCarolis, Miranda Bridgwater (copy editor), Jason Cook, Tim Schafer, Don Bosco Than, Victoria Hughes. Not pictured: Recher Pina, Alex Cook (editor)

Alex Cook


The Fourth EstateLancaster Country Day School

Advisor: Caroline Henderson1st Place: Division 1 — Feature StoryJessica Sacks, Grade 12

Within twenty-four hours of your birth, your parents (and the world around you) have certain expectations of you ... expectations that will impact you for the rest of your life, from the chores you do at home to the career you choose, to the salary you earn. And all of these expectations are based on just one single fact: your gender.

While many things define our concept of gender, the first and most important factor is family. The gender roles you see in your family are the gender roles you will likely subscribe to later in life. For example, chores.

A study done by The Journal of Family Issues found that in households where fathers worked more hours outside the home, sons spent fewer hours doing chores. Why? Because these boys saw their mothers, not their fathers, doing housework. Meanwhile, their sisters spent more hours emulating Mom by doing their chores. Children base their ideas of what constitutes a “girl’s job” versus a “boy’s job” based on what they see their parents and other family members doing.

These concepts of gender carry on from childhood. Women, stereotypically more nurturing, are more likely than men to be teachers or nurses. Men, typically thought of as the stronger sex, are more likely to work in manufacturing or construction. Today, this is where many people think it ends. Gender roles may encourage us to enter certain careers, but ultimately, it’s our choice. Thanks to the feminist movement, it’s perfectly acceptable for a woman to go to medical school or for a man to teach kindergarten.

But what people overlook are the more subtle consequences of gender. Yes, a woman may be able to enter the professional world, but once there, she is a second-class worker. If she

has a baby, she will be removed from the promotion track, while her male counterparts will receive a salary bump so common it is nicknamed the “daddy bonus.” Her male colleagues will be promoted to higher positions faster than she will, if she’s promoted at all. And most importantly, she will make only three quarters the salary of an equally qualified and experienced man in the same position. While the primary harm in these situations is done to women, it does not end there. Discrimination goes on to damage not just the individual, but society as a whole.

In a speech on global economics, Hillary Clinton stated that “there is a stimulative and ripple effect that kicks in when women have greater access to jobs and the economic lives of our countries [...]. By harnessing the economic potential of all women, we boost opportunity for all people.”

When we erase gender stereotypes and biases, all members of a society are free to do the job they do best, regardless of gender. An egalitarian outlook on gender is beneficial from birth to death. Preschool children, for example, have higher self-esteem when they can make choices without being hindered by their sex. Meanwhile, companies employing closer to 50 percent women in upper management tend to have higher profits.

In a bad economy, we can’t afford to subscribe to outdated concepts of gender; we need to employ the most capable people regardless of sex. Furthermore, we can’t afford to delude ourselves into thinking that the battle for gender equality is over.

In 1978, my mother was working as

a pension analyst at a large insurance company. She began working at the same time as a male employee. They were equally qualified and experienced, yet while he was being advised and mentored by their superiors, my mother was completely ignored, leading her to file a discrimination suit.

Ten years later, she was employed by Bell of Pennsylvania, the regional phone company, as the first female foreman of a construction crew. Shortly after beginning the job, one of her workers organized a strike, refusing to work for a woman. In regard to this second example of discrimination, the leaps and bounds gained by the feminist movement are obvious.

Today, it’s unthinkable to imagine a Verizon work crew striking because their boss was female. Yet the first

example, a lack of mentorship for women, persists today. Sarah Hewlett, director of Columbia’s Gender and Policy program, notes that mentorship is essential to advance past junior executive level. Since women are rarely mentored, few females reach top-executive positions.

Is this because potential mentors actively choose to disadvantage women? Typically, no. Senior executives choose not to mentor women because it looks bad. Mentorship involves spending time with a protégée outside of work, which onlookers often see as an affair when a female is involved. It’s not a matter of outright prejudice, or a matter of ability. This discrimination comes from somewhere else.

Daughters of the Revolution

Jessica Sacks

Additional WinnersBest Overall Newspaper — 3rd Place

Best Front Page — 3rd PlaceAustin Cook — 2nd Place, Best News Story

Gabbi Mohn — 3rd Place, Best ReviewGabbi Mohn —3rd Place, Best Feature Story

Maddy Pontz — Editor’s Pick, Best Feature Story

Left to Right, Front: Madeline Shiffer, Jessica Sacks, Forrest Thomson, Maddy Pontz, Lian Najarian, Austin Cook, Anna Winner, Ann Ediberi, Merritt Gohn, Maddie Stover.Left to Right, Back: Gabbi Mohn, Athalie Rohr, Nick Riebel, Caroline Gardner, Jordan Brooks, Tess Aubry, Sam GueninNot shown: Paul Sherban, Carly Garvin, Teddy Wolf, Nicki Liss, Alexandra Daniel, Serayah Holdren

- continued on page 16


The Fourth EstateLancaster Country Day School

Advisor: Caroline Henderson

1st Place: Division 1 — Best ReviewNicki Liss, Grade 11

1991 was a good year for Nirvana, the year that their second album Nevermind hit the stores and became an instant hit. The band that would come to define an era found sudden fame with the song that carried the album, “Smells Like Teen Spirit” (which I also hear is a great deodorant).

Don’t get me wrong, I like the song. A lot. But my personal thoughts on “Smells Like Teen Spirit” is that it is one of those great songs that just flat out should not be covered by another artist — especially not if one of those artists used to have a show on the Disney channel. Unfortunately, our friend Miley Cyrus has done a cover on this song, and does not do it any justice. Kurt Cobain’s low growl is replaced with nasally screams, and Cyrus seems to be trying too hard in her performance. Her constant head banging, staged brooding angst, and the high squeals of teen girls screaming “How low?” just doesn’t seem like what Kurt would have wanted.

With more research, I came across another “Smells Like Teen Spirit” cover that just should not be in existence. It is by 20-year-old American Idol contestant Casey Abrams. The judges praised him for taking a risk; but for me personally, Abrams did something I did not even

know was possible: he combined his screaming with the melody of the song. Yes, I can respect him for putting his own twist to the song, but it just so happens that it’s not a good one.

One cover that I hesitate to include here is by the one, the only Tori Amos. Personally, I’m a fan of Amos. She has an amazing and unique sound that I can only describe as “Tori’s sound.” I respect her as an artist, which is why it pains me to write about her in a negative light. The alternative sound of “Smells Like Teen Spirit” was replaced with Amos’s intensely calming voice and no instruments but a piano. The whole point of the song is being a teenage rebel, and there is no other way to get that message across than by singing with a lovely, angry voice like Cobain’s. It’s a voice that’s hard — or maybe even impossible — to duplicate, so just don’t cover it!

But if you suddenly have an overwhelming desire to listen to a good cover of the song, take a look at the British Ukulele Orchestra. After all, everything is better with a ukulele.

Nicki Liss

In 1960, women were paid 59¢ for every dollar men were paid. Analysts believed this was because women weren’t as educated, experienced, or career-minded as their male counterparts. The gap in wages was a result of a gap in merit, in ability. At the time, this was true. Women entering the work force had no experience and many of the best colleges in the country were still only accepting men. Fifty years later, this is no longer the case. In 2010, women earned 60% of bachelor’s and master’s degrees. Women hold more than 50% of professional and managerial positions. Without a doubt, the merit gap has closed, yet the gap between men’s wages and women’s wages persists. Women are outpacing men from elementary school to graduate school and yet this gap has held steady at 77¢ to the dollar since 1993. The reason for this is not any difference in physiology, or women opting out of careers in favor of families, but simply a gap in the perception of men and women.

Brian Powell, an expert on family sociology, stated in an interview that in addition to family, children’s ideas of gender roles also come from the media that surrounds them. The toys, stories, and TV shows children are exposed to inform them as to what makes up gender. A parent can give their child examples of nurturing and high achieving individuals of both sexes, but ultimately the media will have an impact on their child. This is problematic considering the current bias of the media. In a 2005 study by the Global Media Monitoring Project, it was found that in the news, more than 80% of experts, spokespersons, and news subjects are male while females made up two-thirds of the victims of crimes. According to a study done at Brandeis University, the news media shows women as “having families, feelings, sexualities, bodies and problems. Men are shown to have authority, expertise, power, knowledge, and money.” Women are becoming better educated than men, yet men are portrayed four times as often as intelligent and qualified.

Several factors contribute to this disparity in the media. First, four out of five news directors are men. Second, both male and female directors grew

up in a more sexist society than the one that exists today. When today’s managers, writers, and producers grew up, there weren’t as many high-achieving women. Their generation had fewer working mothers, and therefore, their role models were more likely to be homemaking women and employed men. Since then, progress has been made. The women having children today belong to a generation that has exceeded their male counterparts. Furthermore, according to Brian Powell, the Great Recession has forced families to break traditional gender roles. Many families are finding that one working parent is not enough, forcing the other parent to find employment outside the home as well. This means that the next generation of CEOs and news directors and managers will be more used to the idea of women working. Even if their own mothers didn’t work, there is an increased chance that an aunt or a friend’s mother did. Gradually, this may result in a more balanced perception of women in both the media and the work place.

Since my mother’s career, feminism has undoubtedly changed. The opportunities offered to women have exploded and both genders have greater freedom to choose the career that best fits their skill sets, rather than being limited to what is deemed appropriate for their gender. Yet despite this, we cannot ignore that gender disparity still exists. Over the span of their careers, women are shortchanged more than a million dollars, females are practically absent on the majority of corporate boards of directors, and maternity is still looked down upon. But there is good news. In addition to legislation being enacted around the world to increase women’s participation, we can trust that thanks to family, we are on the right path towards gender equality. So long as women continue to work and have children, each generation has a better chance of seeing both genders as equally capable of earning a wage, of raising children, of washing the dishes and of mowing the lawn. Yes, we must remain vigilant in examining our own ideas regarding gender, but we can also look forward. Ahead of us is a world where we are free to do what is in our best interests, with no hindrances or penalties for our gender. Ahead of us is a better world.

Is ours the generation that will finally cut through the glass ceiling?

Daughters- continued from page 15

What’s in a cover?

— the proud sponsor of the Student Press Awards — wishes to thank the advisors and students of the schools who participated in this contest.

It was open to all public and private high schools in Lancaster County that publish student-produced newspapers in print and/or online.


Every society, from the primitive Neanderthal to today’s “civilized” world, has had its own definition of intelligence. But what is the true test? As far as I know, we no longer measure capability by the warrior skills of a man or the caretaking abilities of a woman. At least I hope not.

Unfortunately, we haven’t progressed to the point where intelligence can be recognized outside of a set standard. There are standardized tests to see how smart a person is but only in the areas that have been deemed true tests of intelligence.

How can we possibly create a box to contain the bounds of intelligence? Apparently, very easily and almost naturally. Whether it be how well you can aim an arrow from horseback or how accurately you can complete a complicated math problem, there always seems to be a line separating the “accomplished” from the average person. My challenge is to examine the idea that intelligence is not one-dimensional and that it comes in all forms.

I, for one, am exhausted from trying to live up to society’s terms when it comes to being “smart.” I can tell you exactly why April 1 is called April Fool’s Day, but I would have to review my notes to recall what I learned in math two days ago. Does that mean what I know is not good enough? I don’t believe so.

I believe that every person excels at something. And if society were truly trying to find intelligence, then it

would work to harness every individual’s ability and develop it to full potential.

The idea that how a person dresses, acts, or looks announces his or her level of intelligence is horrifyingly biased. Let’s be honest here, had that notion applied to Einstein he would have been more likely admitted to an insane asylum than given a Nobel Prize.

Friend groups are usually made up of people who have similar likes and dislikes. How well we get along with a person, the level we think their “intelligence” is, determines if we get close to them. We each may define intelligence differently. If you love music, you probably gravitate towards people who excel in music or share your passion. Whatever you see as an intelligent pursuit, you most probably, seek those people out. There is no problem with that, as long as they are not the only people you hang out with.

Putting people in a box is the barrier that this generation has to demolish. If someone thinks, sounds, or dresses differently, don’t automatically come to the conclusion that they are misguided; be ecstatic that they can offer you a new way to view the world. With over seven billion people on this planet, it would be foolish of us to believe that what we think is always right.

MillstreamLancaster Mennonite High School

Advisor: Kris Horst

Intelligence put to the test

Let the games begin

Editor’s Pick: Division 1 — EditorialHurubi Meko, Grade 12

2nd Place: Division 1 — Sports StoryMegan Baak, Grade 11

Left to Right, Front: Skylar Sims, Zhouchunyu Yu, Natalie Brubaker, Lydia Rittenhouse, Renae Gochnauer, Adam AnthonyLeft to Right, Center: Christina Mulé, Grace Jemison, Natasha Hartzler, Anya Kreider, Megan Baak, Mr. Kris HorstLeft to Right, Back: Laurel Bornman, John David Satriele, Liz Horst, Audra Mylin, Elizabeth Derstine

For many, March 5 was just an ordinary day. However, for the students who play a spring sport, it was the day for the official start of their season. From the first pitch to the first serve, athletes are getting enthusiastic about the season.

After weeks and even months of preparation, athletes are getting ready to play their first games of the season. Many of the spring sports teams have undergone some recent changes, like new coaches.

The track and field team lost more than just runners last year. Coach Dennis Kauffman retired after last year’s season. However, the team has a new coach to fill Kauffman’s shoes. Angela Horst was an assistant coach for several years and is now replacing Kauffman. “I think we have a lot of potential,” stated sophomore Jesse Schatz. “We have a lot of talented runners as well as skilled throwers and jumpers.”

With recent transfers, the LMH tennis team is looking forward to a successful season. “We’ve got a younger team, but we look promising,” commented junior Caleb Harnish. Harnish transferred this year from a school with a Section 1 tennis team, while LMH is Section 2. “I’m looking forward to changing sections and having different coaches,” stated Harnish. Additionally, 25 boys tried out for the tennis team this year. There will certainly not be a lack of tennis players this season despite losing some seniors last year.

As for the baseball team, they seem to be in a “rebuilding” year, according to junior Zac Hummel. After losing eight seniors and one junior from last season, they have a lot of new players. “there is a lot of young talent that has shown up,” commented Hummel.

After losing several seniors last year, the lacrosse team is gaining many new players. However, several of the new players have never played lacrosse before. “The good thing is that we have a lot of people trying out for the team,” commented junior Liban Dinka.

After gaining a new coach last year, the softball team “broke the curse” and

won several games. For those who don’t know, in past years, the softball team has not been very successful.

However, with the establishment of a new coaching staff, it’s evident that the team is greatly improving. The team has been preparing for the regular season for months, with indoor practices and a fall softball team. “The team is looking very promising this year with new and returning talent,” said junior captain Madison Brubaker. “Everyone contributes to the team in some way. It should be a great season.”

As for the volleyball team, they only lost senior Matthew Lauver from last year. Junior captain Nick Weaver commented, “We have a lot of returning players who received good experience from our run in districts and states last year.” The players also played as a club team over the winter. “Playing as a club team helped us get into the swing of things before our season even began,” said Weaver.

The soccer team also lost their head coach. After last year’s season, Dale Stoltzfus retired. Along with the track team, the soccer team has found a new coach to replace Stoltzfus. “Having a new coach is definitely a new experience,” remarked senior Eileen Barker. “We are extremely lucky because he [Keener] coached a lot of us on JV, so he knows us as players and what our strengths and abilities are.”

According to Barker, the team has a lot of potential this season. “From what I can tell, we are a smart soccer team and everyone is pretty much familiar with the Dutch system we play so that’s a huge plus,” mentioned Barker. For those who are unfamiliar with the “Dutch system” it’s comparable to playing a “zone” defense in basketball. The Dutch system is the way that the soccer team sets up on the field. The team is looking forward to advancing farther into postseason play than last year’s team.

Megan Baak

Hurubie Meko


Hi-LiteManheim Township High School


Mandatory AP tests a no-go

1st Place: Division 2 — EditorialJames Biemiller, Grade 12

Students enrolled in any Advanced Placement class at Township should be aware of growing concern from the administration about how many people actually take the AP tests for the classes they take.

In the fall of this year, students in AP classes were (very strongly) encouraged to take a survey on Naviance regarding their plans for which AP tests they would take.

In the spring, Principal Deborah Mitchell visited every AP class to explain the goal of the survey and encourage students to take it. This goal seemed simply to be data collection; however it was clear that the historically low number of students taking AP tests had begun to worry those in charge of the district.

Mitchell mentioned that the district had discussed possible future strategies to encourage (read: force) students enrolled in AP classes to take the corresponding AP tests.

The first strategy would be to require students to sign a contract when they enroll in the course stating that they will take the AP exam in the spring of that year.

First, let’s be clear about the cost of an AP exam: $86. If you are late registering, that already-unreasonable price skyrockets to a jaw-dropping $136 per exam. Multiply that number by the number of AP classes students may take throughout their high school careers (3? 6? 10?) and you are looking at a hefty sum of money.

Though price reductions are offered to students whose families cannot afford these prices, anyone is bound to be upset by the multi-hundred dollar price tag.

Shelling out $700+ may be worthwhile if a student’s selected college awards credit for all of them, and the student is confident in his or her ability to score

highly enough, but there are many situations where taking the AP exam simply is not beneficial.

Our AP classes are typically well taught and prepare students for other respective tests; however, students who are prepared still opt out of the AP test because their college does not give credit for that particular exam. In this case, what would be the benefit to the student of taking the test? Students who are forced to take AP tests without any incentive of college credit would be bound to perform poorly or not even attempt the test. (Blank pages and doodles, anyone?)

This would not only cost many families an unnecessary $86+, it would also cause Township’s average AP scores to plummet. Sure, it would raise the overall number of AP tests taken; but is that of importance if students are primarily scoring 1s and 2s?

Finally, the other possible strategy to coerce students into taking their AP tests is to only apply the AP weight to the grades of students who are taking the AP test in the spring. This method shares all of the aforementioned problems while also incorporating the idea that students can pay for grade inflation. Though both options seem futile at best, this one invokes much more unnecessary favoritism.

To close, I simply want to urge the administration and the school board to take a closer look at the motives for getting students to take their AP tests. Do the benefits outweigh the costs? I think not.

Additional WinnersLauren Lennox — Sports Photo, 1st Place (See page 11)

Lauren Lennox — 2nd Place, Best Sports PhotoSarah Schuyler — 2nd Place, Best Sports Story Lauren Lennox — 3rd Place, Best Sports Photo

Kaitlan Shaub — 3rd Place, Best News StorySarah Horn — Editor’s Pick, Best Editorial/Column

Carolyn Westphal — Editor’s Pick, Best Sports StoryGadi Paskoff — Editor’s Pick, Best Sports StoryGadi Paskoff — Editor’s Pick, Best News Story

1st Place: Division 2 — Best Front Page

Left to Right, Front: Gadi Paskoff, Lindsey WitmerLeft to Right, Center: Agustine Baler, Kaitlan Shaub, Sarah Horn, Beccah Hendrickson, Anna Voystock.Left to Right, Back: Jacquelyn Beauchamp, Vayda Good, Emily Finnigan.

MyManheimTownshipNews.com

James Biemiller


Penn PointsPenn Manor High School

Advisor: Susan Baldrige

First Place: Division 1 — Best News StoryConnor Hughes, Grade 12“It’s about the most intense thing I’ve

seen in Millersville,” said a volunteer firefighter.

Yesterday around noon, The Framery Etc. at 10 Manor Ave. exploded due to a drilling mistake that led to a gas leak. The Framery Etc. is a locally owned business that was a staple in Millersville for over 30 years.

“From what I understand, the people that were putting in the fiber optic cables were drilling underneath the road and they drilled into a gas main, which caused the gas leak. Which in turn, caused the explosion you see down there. No one was hurt,” said Millersville Borough patrolman Officer William C. Young.

At approximately 11:53 a.m., fire units were dispatched to the scene of the explosion. Fire units also evacuated homes and businesses in the Millersville area, due to the risk of other houses being affected by the gas leak.

Not only did the explosion startle Millersville residents, it also left thousands without power, including Penn Manor High School. Trick-or-Treat night was canceled in the borough as well.

“More buildings could explode because the gas is still actively leaking as we are standing here,” said Officer Young.

Staff at the Barn Door, which is located only hundreds of feet from The Framery, reported the smell of gas.

“We smelled gas during our lunch hour,” said Gary McCauley of the Barn Door.

Although the odor didn’t cause the evacuation, fear of additional explosions did. “They didn’t evacuate us until after the explosion,” said waitress Tammy Nickels.

John Hanna, Owner of the Framery Etc. in Millersville, doesn’t believe this incident should go unpunished.

“I’m very upset. I lost a lot, I lost my business, I lost the store I’ve had for 36 years. Somebody is going to have to answer to a lot of people. And they put

the fire police in a tough situation,” said Hanna.

What also makes the situation so difficult for Hanna is the fact that he didn’t order for the installment of the cables.

“AT&T had contracted to put in fiber-optic cables, I had nothing to do with it,” added Hanna.

When asked if he would press charges, he said, “I haven’t thought that far ahead, but someone needs to give me some answers.

Meanwhile at the high school, students and teachers were initially “in the dark” about the cause of the power outage.

“This is incredible,” said Penn Manor senior Landon Alecxih. “What is going on outside that could possibly cause this?”

“I think it’s kind of funny, aren’t there back-up generators?” Jess Huber, a Penn Manor senior, pondered.

During the remainder of fourth block, students were without lights or the Internet.

“I think it’s the first one for Penn Manor,” said Barb Trostle, a librarian at Penn Manor. “I have to say I’m impressed by how the students maintained their calm.”

Some students have varying opinions about the reason for the shutdown of power. “We have a student hacker, that is planning the demise of Penn Manor High School,” guessed Selena Hasircoglu.

“This power outage is really distracting me, I have Russian 3 homework to be doing,” said Zach Kauffman, a senior class officer.

The district server was down as well, frustrating Penn Points reporters who covered the story.

School officials continued to monitor the situation by Tuesday and had plans to evacuate the school in the event of an emergency. The Framery Etc. is scheduled for demolition. This Millersville landmark may be gone forever.

Additional Winners1st Place — Best Overall Newspaper

Alicia Ygarza — 1st Place, Best News Photo (See page 10)2nd Place — Best Front Page

Gabrielle Bauman — 2nd Place, Best ReviewDavid Mohimani — 3rd Place, Best Editorial/ColumnConnor Hughes — Editor’s Pick, Best Feature Story

MyPennManorNews.com

Gas leak explosion shocks Millersville

Left to Right: David Mohimani, Patrick Simpson, Joey Jackson, Jay Jackson, Sam Valentin, Sarah Schaeffer, Alex Cummins, Connor Hughes, Jake Shiner, Alicia Ygarza, DaYonte Dixon, Gabie Bauman, Blake Wales, Cheyenne Weber, Iris Santana, Brandon Bowers and Advisor Susan Baldrige. Not pictured; Cody Straub, Tyler Funk and Amber Brenner.

Connor Hughes


John Carter — Messy but funIt’s the Sixers leading the division, yah dig?

2nd Place: Division 1 — Best ReviewGabrielle Bauman, Grade 11

First Place: Division 1 — Best Sports StoryDavid Mohimani, Grade 12

After the longest lockout in a decade nobody knew what to expect from this NBA season. Something nobody expected was the Philadelphia Seventy Sixers leading the Atlantic Division.

“I was not really expecting this but it’s pretty cool to see our local team finally do well again,” said senior Ian Toomey.

Under second-year head coach Doug Collins the Sixers are boasting an impressive 12-5 record. The Sixers have one of the most balanced scoring attacks in the league – they have seven players averaging double figures lead by their sixth man Lou Williams who is averaging a team high 15.4 points per game(ppg).

The Sixers well-rounded offense has them ranked third in the league with 99.9ppg.

Philly has also been stifling on the defensive end allowing only 88.8ppg which puts them second in the league. Their defense is lead by one of the most stingy and versatile defenders in the NBA, Andre Igoudala who is averaging two steals per game.

“I’m very excited,” said life-long Sixer fan and Penn Manor senior basketball player Landon Alecxih “I want to get back to 2000,” referencing the Sixers magical run to the NBA finals.

That year they were led by league MVP Allen Iverson when the Sixers saw their championship dreams extinguished by the Lakers, the second of three straight titles for Los Angeles.

Since then, the Sixers have only advanced past the first round of the playoffs one time. They no longer have a star player like Iverson and have had a plethora of coaches over the last decade.

After all the turmoil and inconsistency they have had at the coaching position, it seems they have finally found a good fit with coach Collins.

“Collins man, its coaching. Cheeks (former coach) was garbage same with O’brien (former coach). Finally, we got a coach and now we are winning,” said Alecxih.

Collins is clearly the early front runner for coach of the year.

The Sixers may be benefiting from a sub par schedule so far. The only quality team they have beaten is the Atlanta Hawks who are inconsistent at best. They will really be tested with their upcoming schedule, a seven-game stretch beginning Monday where they will face the Magic, Bulls, Heat, Hawks, Lakers, Spurs, and the Clippers.

Philly sports fans are said to be some of the most critical in all sports. “In fact, some of their fans are not satisfied with their hot start.

“They could be playing a lot better,” said senior Tyler Smith. “They have so much potential, and they finally are deciding to use some of it.”

Smith raises a valid point. The Sixers have a talented young nucleus lead by Ohio State standout, Evan Turner, who had a solid rookie season but did not meet the expectations of the second overall pick in the 2010 draft.

Other young players like Spencer Hawes and Jodie Meeks have stepped up this year, while veteran players like Williams and Igoudala provide experience and leadership.

David Mohimani

Penn PointsPenn Manor High School

Advisor: Susan Baldrige

Disney really messed this one up.John Carter appeared in theaters

March 9 as the story of a Civil War veteran who is transported to Mars and has general shenanigans with the naïve peoples living there. The movie is adapted from A Princess of Mars by Edgar Rice Burroughs, a slim novel about 100 years old.

This movie has been in production, in some way, shape, or form since the 1920s; E.R. Burroughs himself wanted to see it on the screen. There’s plenty to set it back. Some of the main characters are eleven feet tall, four-armed green men. Until recently, special effects technology hasn’t been up to snuff to give it visual justice.

The best part of this movie? One word: Woola.

Carter’s massive, bull-dog-meets-komodo-dragon pet. Any scene Woola is in makes this movie better, from the ridiculous speed in running to the adorable / terrifying grin on his face.

In John Carter, every action scene is enjoyable. Unfortunately, there is more than just action.

The plot wasn’t particularly too hard to follow, but then again I’ve read the story from which John Carter was based. For the initiated, it shall appear to be just what it is: a big incomprehensible mess.

That said: I liked it. I came in expecting to hate this movie, and left the theater wishing for a sequel. It had moments of greatness but came just shy of the mark. As much as I boo when bad movies get sequels (I’m looking at you, Alvin and the Chipmunks), I would like to see a version of this movie with a good script. A sequel might just be out of reach; however, $30.1 million in the box office out of a $250 million budget.

Carter feels like an old sci-fi pulp movie; it’s bizarre and confusing, but somehow it grows on you. I’m not quite sure what moment I decided to like it, most likely when the heroes traveled back and forth and back and forth between all the Barsoomian (that’s what they call it on Mars, Barsoom)

cities, looking very epic in the process.

Like an old pulp movie, it’s a bit incomprehensible to explain fully. It’s about alien politics; the classic save the princess love story with a touch of Pocahontas.

This series has been around for over a hundred years. It basically kick-started the superhero genre, and film makers have been cherry picking it for decades. James Cameron’s Avatar is a prime example of this.

It’s a shame that this movie came out when it did. It feels like someone is trying to capitalize on an already full genre, when really it’s the opposite.

I feel bad for this movie. I have never seen a worse marketing campaign for any movie than what Disney halfheartedly decided to spew out — one very bad Superbowl spot and no real television presence. Disney has put its weight behind bad movies before, in fact, lots of studios have. Look at that awful Green Lantern Movie.

To Disney I ask, where’s the limited edition soda? Where are the toys? The merchandise? The television mentions? Not only did Disney give up on the movie before it came out, but it also didn’t believe in it from the start.

The title of the book is A Princess of Mars. Why isn’t the movie named that? Because the studio thought that no boys would see the movie. How about John Carter of Mars? The studio thought, and I am not making this up, that no girls would see it. Hence John Carter.

So while I give the film itself 7/10 stars, I have a disclaimer. If you are willing to stretch your suspension of disbelief, you will like it.

If you like Buck Rogers, Soylent Green, or even Pulp Fiction, you will probably like John Carter.

So please go see it, so I get a sequel.

Gabrielle Bauman

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