1. Smoke Signals
January 2009 • volume 40• issue 03 • Peters Township High School
Change in Parking Policy:
Junior Permits Available
Briget Stasenko
Features Co-Editor
This year, parking has been an ongoing issue
that the administration has been trying to resolve and
satisfy student drivers. At the beginning of the 20082009 school year, the school board decided that only
seniors would be allowed to have parking privileges.
In the fall, an honors lot was created outside of the
gate. The spaces were offered to captains of sports
teams, class and student council officers.
In order to fill the thirty vacant spaces in the
student lot, superintendent Dr. Nina Zetty established
a student parking committee. Zetty wanted to receive
input from the student body before declining on how
to distribute additional parking permits. In order to
participate at the parking meeting, the students had to
e-mail Dr. Zetty in advance and receive an invitation.
As a result of that meeting, junior parking spots
became available. All juniors had the opportunity to
apply for a parking pass. However, they would have
to meet a rigorous list of requirements. “I thought it
was unfair that only seniors were allowed to park at
the beginning of the year. But now the criterion is
ridiculous for juniors to get the chance to park,” said
junior Dara Hoelle.
To get parking pass, a student must earn
points, which can be obtained by having a GPA of 3.8
or higher, a job directly after school, being active in
Peters Township Ranks
Silver in Academics
clubs, fall and winter sports, or holding a position as
club/class officer. The main problem with the point
system is students who have jobs, clubs, and sports
need a pass, but if they don’t have a 3.8 GPA, then
they will be down a point and most likely not get a
pass. “This doesn’t make sense, because they are
the ones that truly need the pass because of the
amount of after school activities,” said junior Rachel
Sunday.
Overall, the administration is experimenting
to come up with the best and most effective solution
possible. Additional changes will be implemented
during the second semester.
AP German Students Bake
“Buttergebaek”
Monica Paterra
Staff Writer
Peters
Township
High School has earned the
silver ranking for academics,
according to U.S. News
and World Report. Only one
Pennsylvania school, located
in Philadelphia, received a gold
designation. Regionally, some
of the other silver award winners
included Upper Saint Clair and
Mount Lebanon. Local schools
receiving bronze awards were
Charleroi and Monessen.
“The
teachers
are
always trying new things,
sharing ideas and working with
each other to improve their own
classes and departments; we
all support each other,” said
English teacher Mrs. Kuhn. “The
combination of hard-working
students and well-educated
teachers is what makes our
school special.”
The researchers utilized
current standardized test scores
as well as how students were
prepared for college-level work.
School Evaluation Services, a
division of Standard and Poors,
developed the method to rate
the schools. Over 21,000 public
high schools were analyzed
using a 3-step process. This
process included analyzing
reading and math scores taken
from each state’s standardized
testing (for Peters, the PSSA).
Advanced Placement
courses that were offered
and subsequent test success
along with the performance
of disadvantaged students
(minorities and low income)
rounded out the other two
benchmarks. First place went
to an Alexandria, VA high
school. Thomas Jefferson High
School, located in a suburb of
Washington D.C., offers unusual
high-tech classes, which many
other schools do not offer,
such as DNA Science II and
Advanced Optics with Research
Applications.
Currently, the
United States ranks 25th in
math and 21st in science among
thirty industrialized countries.
Raising our rank will be a
challenge to educators if we
are to compete with our global
competitors.
Renée Wunderlich
Editor-In-Chief
AP German Students stayed after school on December 12 to translate German
cookie recipies into English. Their grades were to be based on the quality and taste of their
baking. “It was really fun,” said senior Brian Hayes (pictured), “and the German cookie
turned out great.”
– page 11
Photo By: Rachel Sunday
– page 3
FLU SHOT
MYTHS AND
FACTS
– page 4
opinion
tHESPIAN TROUPE
PRESENTS
“COME BLOW YOUR
HORN”
features
Sports
iS THERE A
TERRIBLE
CURSE?
news
Inside
IS gREEEN THE
NEW BLACK?
– page 8
Photo By: Matt Sikora

2. reference
January 2009
Sunday
18
Monday
19
Tuesday
20
Wednesday Thursday
21
22
Friday
Saturday
23
24
30
31
6
7
January 2009
Inauguration
Day
Martin Luther King
Jr. Day
No School
25
Smoke Signals
26
Chinese New
Year
No
School
27
Nat ional
Hugging Day
28
Answer
Your Cat’s
Questions Day
29
Febru ary 2009
1
2
4
Groundhog
Day
Super Bowl
Sunday
8
3
9
5
1913
Rosa Parks
Born
10
Arbor Day
11
1895
Babe Ruth
Born
12
13
Umbrella Day
14
Valentine’s
Day
No School
15
16
Singles
Awareness
Day
22
17
18
19
20
21
24
25
26
27
28
President’s
Day
No School
23
World
Thinking Day
Mardi
Gras
Smoke Signals
Smoke Signals is produced
eight times during a school year
by the students of Media II, III,
IV Journalism and extracurricular staff at Peters Towship High
School, 264 E. McMurray Road,
McMurray PA 15317. Telephone: 724-941-6250 x.5379.
E-mail: sitlern@pt-sd.org.
Commentaries, reviews, and
opinion columns are the expressed opinion of the author
and not of Smoke Signals, its
advisor or the Peters Township
School District. Member of the
Pennsylvania School Press
Association.
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
Renée Wunderlich
ASSISTANT EDITOR
Andrea Briggs
LAYOUT EDITOR
Emily Correal
MANAGING EDITOR
Katie Ellis
1968
Mr. Rogers
Neighborhood
Debuted
Ash
Wednesday
International
Polar Bear
Day
Public
Sleeping Day
New Year’s Word Search
Directions
NEWS EDITOR
Stephanie Cotugno
FEATURES EDITORS
Dana Hoelle
Bridget Stasenko
Find the
number
“2009” as
many times
as you can
in this
puzzle. The
numbers
can go
across,
backwards,
up, and
down.
OPINION EDITOR
Emily Estep
SPORTS EDITOR
Taylor Relich
MARKETING EDITORS
Shelby Miller
Paige Burris
STAFF WRITERS
Gabrielle Brinsky, Amy
Burzotta, Averi Clements,
Conor Jackson, Ian Jackson, Colleen Lugar, Monica
Paterra, Kaitlyn Richert,
Matt Schilling, Matt Sikora,
Bethany Suchy
LAYOUT TEAM
Shelby Miller, Paige Burris,
Taylor Miller
ADVISOR
Mrs. Sitler
Puzzle courtesy of: www.ActivityVillage.co.uk

3. news
January 14, 2009
Smoke Signals
Hysterical Comedy Brings Winter Laughs
Mr. Barry N. Wood
Guest Writer
Looking for something to chase away
the “winter blahs”? Then purchase an
inexpensive ticket to the famous Broadway
comedy “Come Blow Your Horn”, by Neil
Simon which will open soon on our stage
under the direction of Mr. Barry N. Wood.
This hysterical comedy tells the
story of the comic mayhem which occurs
when a “younger kid brother” moves into the
apartment of his “swinging bachelor” older
brother and tries to adjust to his lifestyle.
This funny play delivers comic
performances from Ben West as Alan,
John McGovern as Buddy, Melissa Jarrett
Gabrielle Brinsky
From left to right: Melissa Jarrett, John McGovern, Annemarie
Hall, Ben West, Chelsea Sweeney, and Hardy Kern
Test Results Show Students Lack Science Skills
Staff Writer
International tests, including TIMSS
(Trends in International Mathematics and
Science Study), tested 425,000 students
across 59 countries. Pennsylvania participated
in the international tests by testing fourth,
eighth, and eleventh graders with the PSSAs
(Pennsylvania System of School Assessment).
Of the total grades, 56.2 percent students
qualified on grade level. 81.5 percent of fourth
graders, and 52.7 percent of eighth graders
scored proficient or advanced. However only, 35.7
percent of juniors scored proficient or advanced.
Stephanie Cotugno
as Peggy, Annemarie Hall as Connie,
Hardy Kern as Mr. Baker and Chelsea
Sweeney as Mrs. Baker. Assisting Mr.
Wood will be Assistant Director, Evan
McIntyre, Stage Manager, Sarah Leech,
Technical Director, Mr. Dave Walsh and
Thespian Troupe Sponsor Mrs. Caryn Kuhn.
The comedy will be staged “in-theround” on Thursday, January 15th at 7:00
P.M. and again on Friday and Saturday,
January 16th and 17th at 7:30 P.M. Due
to limited seating, it is suggested that
you purchase your tickets as early as
possible or plan on arriving at the theatre!!
State Education Secretary Gerald Zachorchak
said, “The state needs new high school graduation
requirements and qualifications because students
are being sent out without the science skills
needed to survive the science-rich world.” The
test showed that 77 school districts 88 percent of
seniors scored C or better in biology, a change from
2007, which was 41 percent. Students in higher
grades are encouraged to memorize information,
whereas younger children participate in hands
on activities. Therefore, more than 95 percent
of fourth graders scored at their grade level.
Also,
a
racial
achievement
gap
has been noticed. 29.2 percent of black
students scored along their grade level,
this including the 8.2 percent of juniors.
These tests showed the differences
throughout the state, everywhere has different
teaching styles and techniques. The United
States has very high expectations for students.
U.S education Secretary Margaret Spellings even
stated, “Today’s TIMSS results reconfirm what we
have long known—if we set high expectations,
our children will rise to the challenge.”
illicit use of pharmaceuticals jumped 20%. Senior
Steph Bozic expressed her opinion on Ritalin
by stating, “I believe the drug should only be
used for people who have ADD. For the people
who do not have ADD, the drug is dangerous
and can lead to many severe consequences.”
When twenty-six students were asked
the poll question, ‘Would you take the illegal drug,
Ritalin, if the drug would help you concentrate
on schoolwork?, ten students answered yes and
sixteen students answered no. Out of twenty-six
students, 38.46% of the students would take the
drug. The majority of the students that were asked
the question justified their reasoning by explaining
that they would only use the drug in cases like
taking standardized tests like the SATs and ACTs.
College students do not understand
the relationship between the effect of Ritalin
and its dosage. They are risking their health.
Common side effects of Ritalin include difficulty
sleeping, irritability, nervousness, headaches,
nausea, cardiac arrhythmia, hair loss, anemia,
heart palpitations, anorexia, and hypersensitivity.
Rare Ritalin side effects include abnormal liver
functions, cerebral arthritis, leucopenia, and death.
College Students Illegally Use Drug Ritalin
News Editor
The Illegal drug Ritalin has become the
latest drug of choice among sleep-deprived students
struggling through term papers, homework, and final
exams. Ritalin, an amphetamine drug prescribed for
Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD), treats patients by
controlling their hyperactivity, stimulating the central
nervous system to help them focus. However, for
users who do not have ADD, Ritalin can have the
opposite affect. In those without ADD, lower doses
of Ritalin can create feelings of alertness that fall
somewhere between those produced by caffeine
and cocaine. Using Ritalin at higher dosages can
lead to not only depression, but psychosis as well.
Along with Ritalin, college students also
take Adderall to improve performance and boost
concentration. Students think of these substances
as steroids that help one study better, harder, and
longer. According to a 2005 study by the University
of Michigan Substance Abuse Research Center,
10% of college students use stimulants illegally
during their years of college. Between 2004 and
2005, the number of emergency room visits from
What In The World...?
Would you take an illegal drug such as Ritalin, if
the drug would help you concentrate on schoolwork?
Compiled by Katie Ellis
A woman in New York has been accused of biting a man at a high school basketball game. Shaquana Beamon,
20, claimed that a teacher pushed her to the ground and began to kick her as she tried to approach her
brother on the court. Reports show that the teacher was bitten in the arms and legs, and that someone
else punched him in the head. The district’s physical education director says that the teacher was working
as security at the game, and he was trying to break up a fight. The teacher’s name has not been released
Qinling Wildlife Park in Xi’an, China is looking for three human volunteers to share a pen with 36 wild
wolves. The volunteers, aged 22 to 45, are to spend three full days in a tree house equipped with a walkietalkie and will be monitored around-the-clock. They’ll each be required to “write three 300-word articles,
take eight pictures and film two video clips per day, as well as answer questions from the public online.”
Over 600 men and women have volunteered for the experiment, which will be broadcast live on local TV.
Vascular surgeon David Nott helped to save the life of a 16-year-old African boy whose left arm had been ripped off by a
hippopotamus and was badly infected by gangrene. However, Mr. Nott had never performed that kind of surgery before, so
he contacted a colleague at Charing Cross Hospital in London, who gave him step-by-step instructions… via text message.
A married couple in Cambodia has gone their separate ways… literally. The unidentified couple split their house down
the middle and the husband picked up his half of the house and moved to the other side of the village to start again. The
chief of the Cheach village, Vorng Morn, tried to convince the couple to stay together because they had been married
for 40 years, but they did not listen – they claimed it was easier to split the home than to hire costly divorce lawyers.

4. features
January 14, 2009
Speak
OUT
what WAS YOUR
NEW YEAR”S
RESOLUTION?
“To not get a
concussion.”
- Eric Zalewski
Senior
Kaitlyn Richert
Smoke Signals
The Trauma of Tabloids
Staff Writer
Magazines
are
definitely
an essential form of printed media
for many teenagers. For consistent
readers, there is just something
so enthralling about reading your
horoscope for the month, catching up
on the latest celebrity gossip (Are Brad
and Angelina adopting another kid?) or
even taking a glimpse at some pointers
to make your crush notice you. While I
subscribe to at least three magazines
per year, I often flip through the colorful
pages of Seventeen and wonder how
many teens read it like the Bible,
absorbing every ounce of information
as if their lives depended on it. These
magazines are not only sending the
wrong message to readers, but also
successfully dragging them into the
expensive world of glamour and luxury.
Readers are multiplying for the wrong
reasons, so put down this month’s issue
of Teen Vogue and digest the reasoning
behind the industry’s captivation and
success.
Have you ever witnessed an
older child skimming an issue of a
magazine she was too young to read?
This is the colossal reason for the
sudden increase in the reading of teen
Averi Clements
magazines. Girls around the ages of eleven
and twelve will see their seventeen-yearold sisters drenched in thought reading
Cosmopolitan. When she sets it aside, the
younger girl grabs the issue and reads it
cover to cover. These girls are too young to
understand the concepts in these addictive
magazines. The magazine is called
Seventeen for a reason. Also, younger girls
that get a hold of the magazine are learning
information not only too early for their
development, but they could be considering
false information to be accurate.
When I typed in the keywords, “Star
Magazine” in the CNN search engine, I was
a little surprised to notice the second part
of its tagline: “Users can post rumors about
their favorite celebrities on the message
boards.” As it turns out, Star is among many
magazines to use this controversial tagline
for their website. This evidence makes me
wonder about the amount of truth included
in magazines focusing on celebrities.
Of course, you can’t always believe
what you read – especially when it comes
to the media. In the summer of 2006, Star
Magazine produced a tabloid claiming Reese
Witherspoon was pregnant. Defending
herself and her integrity, she sued the
magazine for the false allegations, claiming
that the article was a “series attack on her
credibility and reputation as an actress.” The
false accusation from this popular magazine
is just one example of the lack of credibility
the magazine industry is demonstrating to the
public.
It’s common to witness the media
embarrass themselves behind these almost
intended rumors, but it’s not acknowledged
that the writers have to deal with the
consequences. So why do teenagers pick up
their weekly copy of Star and indulge in the
fake “truths”? To me, I see the writers to be
back in high school again, demonstrated in
their stereotypical tabloids.
Not only are readers of teen magazines
multiplying, but hope to become part of the
Hollywood world is evolving into a vision that
readers believe they can easily attain. Reading
about celebrities and their luxurious lives in
People represents the shortcut to fame, which
is absolutely the worst message the industry
could possibly send. The writers uncover the
message that being famous requires no work
ethic or motivation, just the rewards of glamour
and money. Sure, we all want a little bit of
luxury. However, you must understand that
reading about glamour is essentially different
from living it – that is what readers need to
comprehend.
Because It’s Right
Staff Writer
“To get better grades.”
- Ryan Tingle
Junior
“To eat healthier.”
Particularly during the holiday season, the importance
of giving to others is heavily emphasized. Undoubtedly, there
is a unique sort of thrill that overcomes the giver when their
meticulously wrapped gift is finally discovered and enjoyed by its
recipient. But why is it that we voluntarily spend so much money
and time for people who really aren’t in need of anything else,
yet we hardly lift a finger for those that are truly in need of our
generosity?
Forget the latest Coach purse – for countless numbers
of people in the world, a warm winter coat is placed much higher
on their wish list. We all know it’s cold outside, and we are able
to bundle up accordingly (sometimes excessively) to keep our
external body temperature at a comfortable level. The very idea
of stepping into this winter wonderland without a coat is absolutely
unthinkable. But when it came to helping those who do not have
protection from the elements, we at PTHS had to be bribed with a
muffin breakfast to bring in coats for the less-fortunate. The idea
of helping those that are unable to help themselves was obviously
not enough incentive. Granted, the enticement was effective, and
Colleen Lugar
hundreds of coats were collected, but the same number should
have been achieved with pure generosity.
Even outside of the school, extra encouragement is often
needed for nonprofit organizations to receive voluntary funds.
Many charities offer a small gift, such as a free t-shirt, in exchange
for monetary donations. Even the government gives tax deductions
to those who donate to most charitable causes. Again, the bribery
does draw in more donations, but the fact still remains that the
greatest reward of all should be that of helping fellow human beings
who cannot necessarily help themselves.
Donations don’t always have to involve giving away your
last paycheck, either. In many cases, they can merely entail offering
something that wouldn’t normally be used anyway: Giving away
unused cans of cat food to a local animal shelter, getting rid of a
few toys from your childhood, or simply raising awareness for the
cause of your choice can be of great help to others. It really doesn’t
take much. Even though the “official” season of giving may be over,
it is always a good time to give to those in need… even if you don’t
receive a muffin in return.
Is the Flu Shot Worth It?
Staff Writer
- Hayden Edmunds
Sophomore
“To be nicer to my
brother.”
- Reed Elleshrosh
Freshman
As the weather gets colder, it is no
wonder we find ourselves catching colds and
feeling a little less than comfortable trapped
inside. The flu is expected to be on the rise
from December to March, but not everyone
is excited about getting the shot. Few are
aware of how productive it is. Any doctor
or physician would not think twice in trying
to convince you to take the shot, but are
they really being honest with you about how
necessary it is? Don’t bet on it.
Each year, the flu virus mutates.
Therefore, new vaccines have to be made
and administered, we can only hope that
the doctors provide us with an appropriate
mixture. Plus, ensuring that the shot gives
you the appropriate dosage has been a
problem in the past.
Among your typical flu shots, ninety
percent has a small chance of mercury in
it used as a preservative. Mercury is the
second most toxic element after plutonium,
and is 500-1000 times more toxic than lead.
Although you can ask to receive the flu shot
mercury free. The health field simply does
not make enough to go around for everyone.
If you were already sick, the flu shot
would not be an appropriate option. The
dead virus just might push your already weak
immune system to its limits.
Whether you are afraid of shots or
just don’t think they are necessary, no one
wants to get sick, so here are a few tips that
will help you stay on top of your game:
1. Always wash your hands before
eating and after you go to the restroom
because nothing else works as well to kill the
germs.
2. Vitamin C is a great defense for
our immune systems. 100% Orange juice is
a great idea for providing yourself with the
recommended daily value. If your feeling like
you might be on the break of a cold, chug
one-cup of juice down. You will be amazed
at the difference.
3. Blueberries have an enormous
amount of antioxidants that will have a
similar effect.
4. Dark green vegetables like
spinach or peppers have all the iron that
your body needs in order to fight off fatigue.
5. Drinking a warm coke or ginger
ale soda is said to be a great remedy for an
upset stomach.
6. Gatorade provides electrolytes
and sodium that helps keep our bodies
hydrated as well when water just isn’t
enough.
It is important, even in the winter to drink
plenty of fluids. Your body still needs to keep
hydrated with all the cold dry air around us.
So if you’re thinking twice about the flu
shot or your still confused on if it is necessary,
try to keep healthy by using these natural
alternatives.

5. features
Jaunuary 14, 2009
Smoke Signals
A Tale of Two Cities: Pittsburgh and San Diego
The Bold and
Extreme:
Hairstyles of 2009
Taylor Relich
Sports Editor
rather ritzy historic hotel that has hosted
many a president or celebrity, the Hotel del
Coronado, a US Marine base, many small
shops, and two spectacular golf courses.
Although Pittsburgh is considered a city of
neighborhoods, San Diego has Pittsburgh
beat hands down here.
Culture should also be taken into
consideration when comparing urban
areas. San Diego has a vibrant culture,
with Spanish, Mexican, and American
influences. San Diego is a very multicultural
city that draws diversity to itself through
its tourism industry. Pittsburgh also has
a unique culture with many Irish, Polish,
Italian, and African- American influences.
Pittsburgh’s culture has always been based
upon its blue-collar attitude derived from its
steel industry of the past. San Diego has
more of a stereotypical California attitude,
where being on time is something people
are not too worried about and most of
the people have no idea their city has a
baseball team. Sports in Pittsburgh are
clearly more important than they are in San
Diego. Although the Chargers have a strong
following, it is nothing compared to Steeler
Nation. Pittsburgh’s culture has more of a
clear identity than San Diego’s does, which
gives Pittsburgh the nod in culture.
Both of these great cities present
their own unique features. Two places so
far removed from each other don’t seem so
different when compared so closely.
For Help, Just Say “Hello”
Andrea Briggs
Assistant Editor
As the after-school specials
will tell you, high school is an emotional
roller coaster, whether it’s stress over
grades, family troubles, or relationship
issues. However, sometimes the most
overlooked factor is the realization that
while you have friends, you don’t have
a single person to go to talk to about
your problems.
Telephone helplines have
been around since the 1970s, but
many people don’t realize they can
offer you that person to talk to. While
they were initially created to provide
help to those contemplating suicide,
today there are helplines that cover a
variety of issues, from youth-specific
problems to domestic violence. Not
only do they offer a listening ear, they
can also refer you to other ways to get
help, such as local shelters, relevant
websites, or free counseling services
in your area.
But what do you do if you’re not
on the extreme end of the spectrum?
The hotlines are there if you need to ask
a question anonymously, get something
off your mind, or talk to someone about
an issue you might not feel comfortable
discussing with your parents. If you need
a sounding board to straighten out your
thoughts, helplines can offer that sort of
support as well.
At the end of the article is a
list of hotlines that are available 24/7.
Someone will pick up no matter if it’s three
in the morning or two in the afternoon.
On the other end of the line are trained
counselor volunteers, who have gone
through an extensive training program to
prepare themselves to handle any sort of
situation.
Sometimes, just talking to
someone can make life easier. All it takes
is for you to pick up the phone, and help
will be there when you need it from people
who care about you.
Bethany Suchy
Staff Writer
FAshion
At first glance, Pittsburgh and San
Diego have about as much in common as a
rusted-out Lumina and a brand new Mustang,
but in my travels to both cities, I have learned
they are more comparable than they appear.
One is the sun-drenched California metropolis,
while the other is the blue-collar “big little city”
of western Pennsylvania.
One of the best ways to compare two
cities is by their physical attributes. San Diego
is a city that sits right beside a bay sharing its
name. It is the second largest city in its state
with over a million people. Pittsburgh on the
other hand, the city with the three rivers, is also
the second largest city in its state, but is much
smaller than San Diego, having about three
hundred and twelve thousand people. Both
cities have similarly brilliant skylines, but by a
partial vote, Pittsburgh’s is more magnificent.
Specific areas or neighborhoods of
cities ultimately are what make them whole,
and therefore they are worthy of examination.
In Pittsburgh, these areas of interest include
the South Side, the North Shore, and the
Strip District. In San Diego, such hot spots
include the Gaslamp Quarter, Little Italy, and
Coronado Island. The Gaslamp Quarter is San
Diego’s primary shopping and entertainment
hotspot, and is much like an upscale version
of Pittsburgh’s South Side Works. Little Italy is
obviously an Italian area, but it comes woefully
short of the Burgh’s Strip District when it
comes to that ethnic feel. Coronado Island
is a place completely different from anything
Pittsburgh has to offer. It is complete with a
There is no point in trying out all of
the new fashion trends and clothing of 2009
without having the most important fashion
statement you wear everyday- your hair.
The hairstyles of 2009 will be all about
the extremes, whether it’s extremely girly,
extremely
angled,
or
extremely
sleek.
Attention-grabbing, the cropped bob
is a simple cut that is just above the chin with
a heavily shortened blunt cut fringe. Those
who have a lot of confidence can wear this
cut easily. Fashion icon and model Agyness
Deyn is currently sporting the cropped bob.
The pixie crop is similar to the
cropped bob, only much shorter. According to
www.fashionising.com, “This cut offers a young
and funky look when done right.” Stylish celebrities
such as Victoria Beckham, Katie Holmes,
and Elisha Cuthbert are all wearing this cut.
For those who are not ready to chop
their hair off, don’t worry. With the right angles
and correct cut, long hair is in style for 2009.
Long hair can give you the advantage of trying
out many different hair trends for this year.
Some of the most popular trends of this New
Year are 1940’s mermaid waves, milkmaid braids,
and straight and sleek hair. Whether you choose to
curl, straighten, or add a braid to your hair, don’t be
afraid to take a risk. The extreme is in, and creating
a bold look will set you apart from the crowd.
Beyond the Bubble:
Washington City Misson
Renée Wunderlich
Editor-In-Chief
While the holidays have gone with the last of the mall sales and dollar
store candy canes, the spirit of “peace on earth” and “goodwill to all” is still in
high gear. The Washington City Mission is known for bringing food, shelter,
medical attention/treatment, educational resources, and loving guidance to
numerous families and individuals in the Washington County area all year
long.
Recently, the National Honor Society collected 624 winter coats from
the generous students and teachers for the Washington City Mission. Mrs.
Wentzel’s homeroom gathered 114 jackets, parkas, and windbreakers, earning
them the top spot among the coat-collecting classrooms and free muffins for
a first period-breakfast.
In December, the Mission held a Christmas Dinner for those homeless
and struggling to make ends meet, complete with baked ham, potatoes, salad,
cranberry sauce, and a slice of cake or pie. The meal only cost generous mail
donators $2.41 per person.
Beyond soup kitchens and church dinners, the Mission provides
shelter for the homeless men, women, and children of the Washington county
area, as well as educational resources, life-skills training classes, and relief
for the victims of natural disasters. The Mission is currently planning for the
Student and Young Adult Hotline – CONTACT Pittsburgh
construction of a Women and Children’s housing center to provide shelter and
412-820-4353
For teenagers dealing with issues such as suicide and depression, child abuse, peer guidance to the hundreds of hurting young mothers and their families.
One of the City Mission’s most influential programs is the Arbuckle
relationships, dating violence, self-injury and eating disorders, as well as those in
Medical Clinic, which provides preventive, primary, and emergency health
need of reassurance during times of crisis.
care for free to the many homeless and uninsured citizens of the area. The
The Trevor Project Helpline
Clinic also works with addiction treatment centers and assisted-living nursing
1-866-4-U-TREVOR
homes of the surrounding community.
A nationwide crisis and suicide prevention helpline for lesbian, gay, bisexual,
Though relief for those suffering around the globe is crucial, there
transgender and questioning youth.
are individuals still in need not just within the United States, but also within
the immediate area. With the state of the American economy declining into a
National Runaway Switchboard
recession, it is now more important than ever to support those organizations
1-800-621-4000
that have given relief and hope to the less fortunate of this country. To donate
Provides support for youths who are considering or have run away and their families. to or get involved with the Washington City Mission, log onto http://www.
citymission.org/

6. Mr.
Wilkinson
1987
11th
Grade
Mrs.
Lane
y was w
“My fondest memor rear o
quadrangle in the after lu
ol
Central High Schoudents to
st
mandatory for what the
quad” no matter wed to sto
you weren’t allo e becau
hated it at the timter and i
freeze in the win en’t ab
your coat, you wer retrieve
to your locker and all it to
once and that’s torturo
forget again. As y frien
sounds, I met man had so
have today and tions
greatest conversak.”
wal
Mr. Perotte
ires
“Bonfuth
at So .”
Park
an
Mr. Sussm
“I remember
Mr.
Jennings
blowing
stuff up for
our
Chemistry
Class.”
ories are our
“My fondesttmemmber parties’
lu
Friday nigh t‘sfriend Susie. We
with my bes s of pizza and had
n
always ate tofamous homemade
mom’s le cookies.”
her
Jubilee Jumb
Mrs. Lane
Mr. Wilkinson
What do YOU Rememb
1973
“I can rememberas
what a shock it w
the day the [Berlin
Wall] came down.
in
We were sittingrecan
class and I
sing
member discusass.
Ger man cl
it in
Literally, the day beit
lieved
fore, we be
e
would NEVER com ,
n. The next day
dow
the footage with
ed
hammers dominat
news.”
the
Mrs.
Gunther
1970
Mr. Bastos
l
get parenta
e had to see the original
“W
o
permission t n of Romeo and
io
rs
movie veand we wore bell .
ts
uliet,
J
-hugger pan
om and hipatles broke up,
bott
Be
[Later,] the anson was found
Charles M lockwork Orange
guilty, A C ased, and the
was rele ate scandal
Waterg rred.”
occu
r
Mrs. Gunthe
1994
Mrs.
Vollmer
dad in
aving myeat!! If I
“H
as gr
class weeded a ride
ever n nexpectedl
home ugot money
or for down to th
just ran see my da
gym tonever had
Plus, I bus beca
ride the with him
I went orning!
the m
e
Mrs. Vollm

7. “I remember acting the
role of Peppermint Patty
of
in [PTHS’s] productionarCh
You’re a Good Man, e first
lie Brown. It was th been
time the play had high
done in any U.S.
school.”
Ms. Hamilton
walking the
of Catholic
unch. It was
o “walk the
weather and
op walking. I
use we would
if you forgot
ble to go back
e it. I forgot it
ook to never
ous as this
nds that I still
ome of the
s during that
“My sophomore
rs
year, the seniouse
ot beca
had a ri
their senior trip e
.W
was cancelleddown
to lock
went in
t we
and after thauards
had security gol.”
in the scho
Mrs. Morriston
1969
1993
Mrs. Boni
“I loved sweaters w
it
der pads, Sixteen C h shoulGhostbusters, Break andles,
Breakin’ 2: Electric in’, and
and big curly hair! Boogaloo,
I
had a pick that hadactually
spray dispenser on a hair
the other
end of it!”
Mrs. Boni
Mrs.
Sekely
ber from High School?
n
I
e
ly
I
he
ad!
d to
ause
m in
!”
er
Mrs.
Deliere
“My favorite
memories
include doing
all of the plays.
I was an actress
for WBMS TV
where we did
‘reality shows’
like The Judge
and Traffic
Court.”
1994
Mrs. Deliere
1992
“Right around my
graduation date, OJ
Simpson made a ru
in his white Broncon for it
,
will never forget wat and I
as the cops chased ching
do
his car at [my] friendwn
graduation party! At ’s
he has finally been least
foun
guilty for something d
!”
Mrs. Bockstoce
Mrs. Sitler
Mrs.
Bockstoce

8. opinion
January 14 2009
Smoke Signals
Someday Syndrome: How to Overcome It
Amy Burzotta
Staff Writer
Does this phrase sound familiar?
“Oh, I’ll do my English paper tomorrow,
I’m going to watch the Steeler’s game instead.” Procrastination is a word almost all
high school students are extremely familiar
with. In fact, I’m writing this article just now,
and it’s due at the end of the period. This
is called “someday syndrome.” Nearly all
high school students suffer from this horrible sickness. So what is the cure? How do
we overcome this deadly disease? Follow
these four tricks, and you’ll be good to go.
1. Get Motivated. You may find that
lately you have felt lazy and unmotivated to
get off the couch and stop watching reruns
of your favorite show. First, clear your head
by taking a short walk or exercising for fifteen to twenty minutes. According to psychologymatters.org, exercising can help
wake you up and do the work you need to
accomplish.
2. Get Organized. Figure out what it
is you want to complete and decide how you
are going to accomplish it. Be sure you give
yourself enough time to finish your project.
Imagine you are writing an English paper.
First, pick the topic you are going to write
about, then brainstorm ideas for each para-
Junior Steve Magreni rewards himself with a break from his english papers.
Green is the New Black:
Britney: For the Record
Bethany Suchy
Matthew Sikora
Staff Writer
With a talented voice and
dance moves to match, Britney
Spears has been an idol for many of
us since our early elementary school
days. Born in southern Mississippi
and raised in Kentwood, Louisiana, this pop sensation launched
her first hit in 1998 with her debut
single, “Baby One More Time.” A
decade after its release, she is still
on top of her game, as shown by
the release of her sixth album, “Circus”, in December. Yes, Britney has
had her struggles, but she is still a
musical icon adored by millions.
On December 10, an MTV
special on the life of Britney was premiered; her first official biographical
appearance on television. If you
haven’t seen it already, Watch the
hour and a half long documentary.
It allows viewers to catch a glimpse
of the stressful life of Britney and
the challenges she must endure
everyday; the paparazzi constantly
graph and put the ideas into an outline.
“I always make an outline before I start
writing any paper because it helps me
become focused and organized,” says
junior Kelsey Boze.
3. Go to a Quiet Place. Your
room, the library, or any other comfortable, quiet place in your house is a great
place to get work done. It’s much easier
to focus on your work if you are able to
solely concentrate on the one thing you
are trying to get done.
4. Take Breaks. Reward yourself. If you finished half of your paper and
your brain feels like mush, take a break.
Go get some Starbucks with a friend, or
take a quick walk. Taking breaks will give
your brain time to rest, but be sure they
aren’t too long. You don’t want to forget
about the project completely, so give
yourself about twenty to thirty minutes to
do what you please.
It’s hard to stay motivated in the winter,
but always remember your goals and the
things you want to accomplish. Remember to always get plenty of exercise because it will help the creativity flow. Follow these four things, and the summer
will be here before you know it.
Realistic Look at Recycling
Staff Writer
following her wherever she goes,
the conflicts with her past, and
keeping her family life as normal
as possible. The human side of
Britney is shown, and you learn
more about her troubled past. Although her actions in the past led
many people to believe she was
crazy, the woman has definitely
mellowed out. In her interview,
Britney states in the documentary,
“I’m a smart person. What the hell
was I even thinking?” “I would
have to say that after watching this
documentary, it is clear that Britney
has definitely matured and grown
up a lot in the past few years,”
said Sophomore Alex Lavella.
Britney’s success is still on the
rise as she continues to shine
in the spotlight. Make sure to
see her March 27 when she
comes to Pittsburgh in concert.
He
Said
Think about all of the garbage
you discard in a single day. In fact, the
Grand Canyon would only take 300
years to fill up with garbage if the United
States dumped into it. To put this in real
terms, each citizen disposes of almost
one ton of garbage per year. This really
adds up over time. Some of this garbage
decomposes quickly, but most of it takes
years and years. A paper bag takes one
month to decompose, but a plastic bag
takes twenty to two thousand years. A
plastic jug will not break down for at least
one million years, which is at least thirteen thousand human lifetimes. Trash is
a very big problem in the United States,
and we need to start recycling. Small
everyday steps can make a big impact on the welfare of the environment.
If you want to start recycling, aluminum cans are a great first step.
Recycling
one
12-ounce
aluminum can saves the amount of energy equal to six ounces of gasoline.
To manufacture an aluminum can from
recycled materials, it will take twenty six percent of the energy used to
produce a can from scratch. If every
house in the United States installed
water-efficient products, it would save
three trillion gallons of water and about
18 billion dollars per year. If you follow
these steps, you could help save your
wallet as well as the environment.
Recycling is not the only way to stay
green. When you are not using your
MP3 player, phone, or camera chargers, keep them unplugged. Try to
develop a shopping list that focuses
on a healthy meal using organic, local
produce. Use your car only when you
need to. If you are driving, keep car
tires inflated and do not idle the car for
more than thirty seconds. Turn off the
shower while soaping up; a four-minute shower uses about twenty to forty
gallons of water. “Everybody is going
green these days, and that’s never a
bad thing,” said senior Taylor Relich.
She Said
Ian Jackson
Amy burzotta
What do you do when its snowing?
Go sledding
What do you do when its snowing?
Sit by the fire
What’s your favorite winter drink?
Wha t’s your fa vorite winter drink?
Pumpkin Spice Latte
Vanilla Coffee
What’s your favorite winter activity?
Wha t’s your fa vorite winter activity?
Ice Skating
Going to a Pen’s game!
What’s your favorite winter movie?
A Christmas Story
Wha t’s your fa vorite winter movie?
The Holiday

9. opinion
January 14 2009
Smoke Signals
Academy Antics: Oscars ‘08
Emily Estep
Opinion Editor
Another one you may
It’s the most wonderful best leading actor race. If both
time of the year. No, not the holi- are nominated this year, which have seen that’s getting serious
days: Oscar Season. From No- is likely, there is no way they will attention is Wall-E. I personally
vember to January, dramatic, criti- give the award to Hoffman over didn’t like it. I found parts of it to
cally-acclaimed films are cranked Ledger for a second time, espe- be cute, but overall, I thought it
out by movie studios anticipating cially since Ledger’s death last was somewhat boring. I guess
I’m just spoiled by other Disney/
the Oscar season. This year is no January.
So with these factors in Pixar movies like Finding Nemo,
different, whether it be an under-
the-radar film like The Reader or a mind, one must realize the com- which are more fun and are less
big-budget wide release like The mercial films that he or she has underlying-political-messagesCurious Case of Benjamin Button. been seeing all year are unlikely about-the-environment-y. Don’t
It must be noted that the favorite to win awards. But don’t take this get me wrong; I’m all for brainfilms of the average movie goer as a reason not to pay attention, washing America’s youth and
tend to differ dramatically from because there are a surpris- drowning people in messages
ing amount of exceptions. One about how they’re destroying
what critics choose.
This occurs for a multi- such exception is a film that will Mother Earth, but it just wasn’t
tude of reasons. Number one: no doubt go down as one of the what I was expecting from the
limited release movies. A consid- greatest movies of our genera- studio that brought me Monsters,
erable amount of movies that tend tion, The Dark Knight. Not only Inc. and Ratatouille. But going
back to what I said before,
to win awards do not go wide
critics love these kinds of
release, and thus would not
themes.
Consequently,
be playing anywhere near Pe“Not only does The Dark
Wall-E will certainly win
ters Township. For example,
animated feature,
The Wrestler, one of the CritKnight have a decent shot best even be nominatedand
may
for
ics Choice best films of the
at best picture and best
best picture of the year.
year, is playing nowhere near
Although the Oscars
here. There are occasionally
director, it is almost a
doesn’t actually premiere
exceptions to this rule, with
until February 22, there is a
blockbusters like The Dark shoo-in for best supporting
slew of awards ceremonies
Knight, which was seen by
actor, Heath Ledger.”
prior to it that give some
more people in theaters than
insight to the year’s best
almost any movie ever made
films. Besides the more
in the United States, but this
well-known Golden Globes,
is extremely rare. Another reason is subject matter. Movies that does The Dark Knight have a de- Screen Actors Guild Awards, and
deal with serious subjects, like cent shot at best picture and best Critics Choice Awards, there are
politics or war, are more likely to director, it is almost a shoo-in also many top 10 lists compiled
receive nods than those surround- for best supporting actor, Heath by critics. My best of 2008 list
ing trivial ideas. (I guess my hopes Ledger. This category has a his- (alphabetically, not in order of
for Pineapple Express are shot). A tory of being the most commer- best to worst), currently stands
final, and probably the most im- cial at the Oscars. It is one of the as follows: Burn After Reading,
portant reason, is “awards poli- few categories that ever grants Changeling, The Dark Knight,
tics”, which has an enormous in- awards to comedies, a lá Alan Ar- Doubt, Frost/Nixon, In Bruges,
fluence on nominations and wins. kin winning for his performance Milk, Pineapple Express, Rachel
For example, Meryl Streep wins in Little Miss Sunshine. Following Getting Married, and Slumdog
an Oscar roughly every five years. suit, in addition to the very widely Milionarie.. Keep in mind there
This year, she is in a respected seen Heath Ledger role, there is are still movies I have yet to
drama, Doubt. Therefore, she is a serious possibility that Robert see, my dreams of best picture
almost guaranteed a nomination. Downey, Jr. will be nominated going to Pineapple Express are
Another example: In the 2005 for his controversial role in Tropic uncalled for, and Bill Maher’s ReOscars, Philip Seymour Hoffman, Thunder. This comedy, directed ligulous would be in my list if it
for Capote, beat Heath Ledger, by none Ben Stiller, is in no way a had made the cut for best documentary.
for Brokeback Mountain, in the typical Oscar-movie.
Movie
Reviews
By: Emily Estep, Opinion Editor
The Curious Case of
Benjamin Button
Rated PG-13
Benjamin Button is based on the 1922 short story
by F. Scott Fitzgerald. It is about a man, played by
Brad Pitt, who is born around the age of 80 and
ages backwards. Despite the obvious gap in time
since 1922, the story translates well in the modern
world; the themes of age and time will always be
relevant to audiences. Benjamin Button explores
the topics through a tragic love story between
Brad Pitt and Cate Blanchett. Flawless in costume, acting, and storyline, what is the movie’s
downfall? It’s runtime. The movie is two hours and
47 minutes long, but one can’t help thinking, that
the length of the movie may be a character itself,
further making a point about time.
Valkyrie
Rated PG-13
Tom Cruise stars in this thriller based on true events
about a group of high ranking Nazis who tried to
take down Hitler. It offers some amazing insight
into the minds of many Germans during World War
II. The film’s outstanding feature is its supporting
cast, who give riveting performances, making sure
you are completely absorbed in what is happening.
Cruise also acts excellently, although his American
accent among British actors is kind of jarring, as
the film is set in the middle of Germany. Valkyrie
does surprisingly well at holding your attention beginning, middle, and end, even though you know
the outcome from the start.
Fishtank: The Aftermath
Gran Torino
Renée Wunderlich
Editor-in-Chief
Rated R
Gran Torino is about a lonely WWII vet, played by
Clint Eastwood, who befriends his foreign neighbors, and gets mixed up in a local gang. In other
words, this film has one of the most unique storylines, not based on a book, perhaps all year. Upon
viewing Gran Torino, fans of Clint Eastwood will rejoice, and non-fans of Clint Eastwood will become
fans. Despite poor acting from the supporting cast,
his character keeps the audience laughing and interested. Gran Torino includes a learning experience, a really cool car, Clint Eastwood being awesome, and in all seriousness, a message about
tolerance.

10. 10
sports
January 14, 2009
Smoke Signals
Pitt is Finally It
Ian Jackson
Staff Writer
The University of Pittsburgh
has had some great basketball
teams over the years. They had the
stellar teams in the Eastern Eight
Conference during the seventies
and eighties, Jerome Lane and
Charles Smith were leading the
way in the late eighties and early
nineties, and the Brandin Knight
led teams in the 2000s, and the Big
East Championship team in 2008.
They have been crowned National
Champions twice, though haven’t
achieved such success since the
1930 season. These teams were
all great, but in the national polls,
which weren’t created until 1948, the
team had never achieved a number
one ranking. That all changed in a
single weekend
Pitt opened the 2009 season
in a familiar fashion. Beginning as
the sixth ranked team in the country
Conor Jackson
and starting the season with a 13-0
record. On Saturday, January 3rd,
they prepared for what promised
to be one of their toughest tests
of the season when they arrived in
Washington DC to play the eighthranked University of Georgetown
Hoyas. Pitt, then ranked third in
the country, came out early and
maintained a three-point lead at
the half. The second half was all
Pitt. Guard Levance Fields, center
Dejuan Blair, and forward Sam
Young took over the game, and
Georgetown looked like they were
playing on their heels. The Hoyas
were completely overmatched by
the Panthers, and Pitt cruised to
a 70-54 win.
The win over Georgetown
was special, but little did the team
know what else the weekend would
hold. The following day, the top-
ranked University of North Carolina
Tar Heels were set to play the
unranked Boston College Eagles.
Everyone expected the Tar Heels to
dominate another inferior opponent,
but Boston College held a six-point
lead in the first half and never looked
back. They had upset the “best” team
in the country, with a final score of
85-78. Add that to the fact that the
second ranked Connecticut Huskies
had already lost to Georgetown
earlier in the week. Luckily for the
Panthers this meant one thing. Pitt
men’s basketball was set to become
the first Pitt squad to be number one
since the 1982 football team.
The NCAA polls are released
every Monday around noon, and the
Panthers waited anxiously to see
themselves at the top of the rankings.
When the Associated Press released
the rankings, it was official: The Pitt
Breaking the Record
A “Terrible” Curse
Averi Clements
Staff Writer
This year has been the revival of
PT boy’s basketball team. The team is full
of talented and hard- working players. “We
are a very athletic team, and as a senior,
I am ready to be a WPIAL
contender,” said senior
Nick Wilcox. The team has
many key starters, such as
senior Steve Radke and
“
Staff Writer
loss to Franklin Regional. A big game for the
Indians last year was their win against Canon
Mac, which knocked them out of the playoffs.
This is a game that showed that things have
changed with now three-year
coach Gary Goga. There has
been a change in directions
when it comes to rivalries.
Now the rivalries are against
backyard opponents, such
as Upper St. Clair, whom
they play January 30th, and
Canon Mac, whom they play
January 13th and February
6th. So far the Indians are
9-1, riding the success of a seven game win
streak and hoping to keep improving their
winning record. This year’s team hopes to build
on the success to go far in playoffs. “ No matter
who we play we just have to play our hardest
and come out on top,” said sophomore Brian
Legowik.
This year’s
team hopes to
build on the
success to go far
in playoffs.
three-year starter Craig
Wolcott. The team works
hard everyday at practice
to match the hype and to
accomplish their goals of
being a winning team.
“This year our goals are higher, and
we know we have to work hard in practice and
in games to accomplish them,” said Steve
Radke. In hindsight, their goal is definitely
attainable. The team has come a long way
from last year. Their record last year was
18-8, which concluded in a WPIAL playoff
Panthers are the best team in the
country! Whether you agree with it
or not, the Panthers will be the ones
playing with that beautiful one next
to their name, but the road doesn’t
end here.
“We have the ranking, but
now we want to hold on to the
ranking. We still have the same
goals and want to achieve the same
things,” senior forward Sam Young
said. “Nothing has changed at all.
We just have more people believing
in us now. We feel like in the past
we haven’t made history. Now
we’re feeling like we’re continuing
to make history. This is only the
beginning for us. It’s a long road, a
long season. We still have a long
way to go. I think we’ll continue
to make history down the stretch.”
(Pittsburgh Post-Gazette)
UnderReview
”
Since its invention in 1975, the Terrible Towel has
been a symbol for the Steeler nation. Indeed, one can hardly
call himself a fan of the Black-and-Gold if he does not hold
one of these iconic pieces of fabric in his possession. So
when LenDale White and Keith Bulluck of the Tennessee
Titans were caught on camera stomping on one of Myron
Cope’s creations after their 31-14 win against Pittsburgh,
it is only fitting that Steeler fans everywhere were furious.
This anger only intensified when Titans defensive end
Jevon Kearse used one of the towels to blow his nose
during the same game. When the Titans lost to Baltimore in
the Divisional round of the playoffs, many Pittsburgh fans
laughed, crediting Tennessee’s elimination to bad karma
resulting from their desecration of the Terrible Towel. They
justified their reasoning by referencing the 2006 game
against Cincinnati, in which Bengals wide receiver TJ
Houshmandzadeh used a Towel to shine his shoes as he
walked into the locker room. The Bengals went on to finish
the next season with an unimpressive 7-9 record.
Does insulting the Terrible Towel really bring bad
luck? Or is it just a superstition? So far, it appears that more
evidence is needed before the idea can be confirmed (after
all, the 0-16 Detroit Lions didn’t seem to have anything
against Pittsburgh). While some Steeler fans may warn
other teams of the consequences of their towel-insulting
habits, it is unlikely that they will listen; Unless the ghost
of Myron Cope is hard at work, it is hard to see an age in
which square pieces of cloth will determine the outcome of
NFL seasons.
What is “icing”?
“The delicious coating on a cake
that everyone has to try.”
Jim Rotella ‘09
“The threat of passing over two
blue lines in hockey.”
“The best stuff on top of cakes.
The only good part.”
Steve Magrini ‘10
Ryan Schafer ‘09

11. sports
January 14, 2009
Smoke Signals
Sports
Briefs
Reflections of the Regular Season
Matt Schilling
What do you expect
from this season?
Staff Writer
The 2008-2009 NFL season was a
season where historic records were set and
Hollywood story lines took place. Surprising
teams surfaced, allowing seven new teams to
make the playoffs. From the curse of the loser
of the Super Bowl not going to the playoffs to
new divisional champions, the 2008-2009 NFL
season was an exciting year.
New Orleans Saints quarterback
Drew Brees held a 96.2 quarterback rating
throughout the season because of his amazing
offensive weapons including Marcus Colston
and Lance Moore. Brees threw for 5,069 yards
and 34 touchdowns. He was on pace to break
Dan Marino’s record of 5,084 passing yards in
a season, but fell short. Brees became only
the second quarterback to throw for over 5,000
yards in a regular season. His amazing statistics
earned him the Offensive Player of the Year
award.
An equally impressive historic
event was Peyton Manning’s three-time MVP
Award. Becoming only the second player
to ever win three MVP Awards, Brett Favre
was the first. Manning threw for 4,002 yards
and 27 touchdowns and Manning had a 95.0
quarterback rating which leads many to believe
that he didn’t deserve this award by comparison
to Drew Brees’ stats.
Yet again, Minnesota Vikings running
back Adrian Peterson ran his way to Hawaii,
with 1,760 rushing yards and 9 touchdowns.
He’s on his way to becoming the best running
back to ever play the game, gaining over 3,000
yards in his first two seasons. Overcoming a
sophomore slump, Peterson averaged 4.8 yards
per carry and proved that he can be the most
dynamic running back in the NFL.
After being voted to the Pro
Bowl and named the Defensive Player of the
Year, James Harrison of the Pittsburgh Steelers
led the team with a team record 16 sacks. With
101 tackles, seven forced fumbles, and an
interception, Harrison terrified quarterbacks and
offensive coordinators.
Noticeable rookies of this
year include quarterback Rookie of the Year Matt
Ryan and running back Chris Johnson. NFL
analysts believe that Ryan has the qualities to
be an elite quarterback in the NFL; qualities like
a rocket arm, accuracy, and the ability to sense
the pressure in the pocket. Ryan threw for 3,440
Ian Jackson
Boys Basketball
(11-1-0)
“We definitely hope to win
the Section and reach our
potential in the playoffs.”
- Stephen Radke ‘09
Girls Basketball
(6-6-0)
“I expect us to beat tough
teams and get a good
seed in the playoffs.”
- Emily Correal ‘09
Hockey
James Harrison voted AP Defensive Player of the Year streatches beforte a
game.
Photo by: Rachel Sunday
yards and 16 touchdowns. He led the Falcons from a 4-12 record
to an 11-5 record.
Tennessee Titans’ Chris Johnson rushed for 1,228
yards and scored 9 touchdowns. He is the only rookie going to
the Pro Bowl. With teammate LenDale White, the Tennessee
Titans had a fearsome running attack.
Finally, the Super Bowl Champions went under
the radar when Brett Favre decided to return to the league. Favre
was traded to the Jets, and Miami signed Chad Pennington. Tom
Brady went down in week 1 with a season-ending knee injury,
which made the AFC East very competitive. The Dolphins ended
up winning the division at 11-5, beating the Jets for a fairy-tale
ending for Chad Pennington.
Sinking the Competition
Staff Writer
The Peters Township Girls
teams in the state. The team didn’t just
Basketball team has experienced
improve on the court. They also bonded
a great amount of success
the past couple years. They
began the season with the
number one ranking in the
WPIAL Conference. Pete
Serio is the new head coach
of the Lady Indians, and
he brings a cornucopia of
experience and leadership
to the young team. Over
Christmas break, the girls
were invited to play in the
prestigious Kroger Classic
Tournament. Emily Correal
was named to the AllTournament team. She,
along with Emily Matthis,
led them to a 1-2 record
Emily Correal, Maddie Miller, Sam Higgins, and Ellie Hanlon
against some of the toughest
off the court.
“The
Kroger
Classic was a chance for
us to bond as a team, and
we certainly did,” senior
Center Emily Correal
stated. “We shared a ton
of laughs on the bus rides
and during our down time
in the hotel.”
The girls own
a 6-5 record overall
and are currently 3-2 in
section play. They are
currently tied for second
in the section and plan
on climbing back up the
rankings to compete
for another shot at the
WPIAL Championship.
(9-4-0)
“We expect great things
from our season. A State
Championship or maybe
a Penguin Cup is a possibility.”
- Riley Moore ‘10
Swimming
(17 WPIAL qualifiers)
“I expect a successful
season with a perfect or
close to perfect record.”
- Casey Dunleavy ‘09
Indoor Track
(0-0)
“ I want to get in shape.”
- Chris Malencia ‘12
11

12. Voices Hall
in the
What was the best part of 2008?
Freshman Clayton Evans
“The Steelers’ fantastic season”
Sophomore Kari Hartbauer
“The summer”
Junior Rachel Martin
“The parties”
Senior Sarah Cichowicz
“Turning eighteen”
What are you most looking forward to in 2009?
Freshman Matt John
“New baseball season”
Sophomore Luke Cellini
“Helping save the environment”
Junior Max Conroy
“School being over”
Senior Jake Nowe
“Going to college”
What do the Teachers think?
Mr. Luxbacher
“Boys soccer winning WPIALs”
Mrs. Fecher
“My vacation to Disney”
Ms. McKenna
“Getting engaged!p”
The PT Minute
Sophomore Justin Gregg
What do you enjoy doing when it snows?
Snowboarding
What sporting events are you most excited for?
Steelers
What do you want for Valentines Day?
Any presents
What do you plan on doing over Spring Break?
Hanging out with friends
Are you going on any trips soon?
No
Sophomore Natalie Hauck
What is your New Year’s resolution?
Be nicer and gossip less
What sporting events are you most excited for?
Steeler games
What are your plans for Valentines Day?
Hanging out with my boyfriend
What movie are you looking forward to seeing?
Yes Man
What sporting event are you looking forward to?
Volleyball
What are you plans for Spring Break?
Hanging out with my friends
Mr. Bastos
“Going to Disney World with my
wife and kids”
Teac
her
With TEACHER
Min
ute
What will you do over Spring
Break?
Go golfing
Are you going on a trip?
Yes, to Florida
What do you enjoy doing when
it snows?
Watching football
Any New Year’s resolutions?
To have a better attitude
What sporting event are you
most excited for?
Steelers!