Kathryn Sutton


Some freshmen students in Freshman Seminar (formerly called Success in High School) have begun volunteering their time to tutor middle school students in math. Mr. Hoshaw, a middle school math teacher, contacted Mr. Yeager with his idea for helping out 6th grade students, and Mr. Yeager thought it would be great for students in his 7th period Freshmen Seminar class. It’s a great way for freshmen with a gift for math to help out middle schoolers, as well as brush up on their basic math skills.

The opportunity was offered to any freshmen in 7th period Freshman Seminar with Mr. Yeager who feel they are able to help with math and are comfortable with tutoring. There is no GPA or math grade requirement to join. Currently, Sarah Hammaker, Aaron Sifford, Joe McErlean, Jackie Scheidel, Bridget Mcloud, Brad Deleone, Mary Newman, Greg Hodgkiss, Samantha Schumacher, Sean Daugherty, Hao Ngo, Catherine Quinn, and Ari Levine are tutoring. “It’s an awesome opportunity for freshmen,” said Mr. Yeager, “not only to give back to the middle school, but to start building their transcript.”

Equally as important, the middle school students are benefiting from the aid of the freshmen, and the one on one attention they receive. Khilan Vyas, a middle school student, commented that, “It’s easier to talk with the tutors than [it is to talk to] a teacher; teachers are also good, but it’s better because [the tutors] pay more attention.”

Many of the tutors find it refreshing to review the basic math many high school students have forgotten. “Brushing up on your basic math is great,” stated tutor Catherine Quinn. “I really forgot a lot!” With the recent success of the math tutoring, Mr. Yeager and many freshmen report that they would like to expand the tutoring to more subjects. Jackie Scheidel contemplated that, “Math is important, but there are other things. I definitely think [the program] should expand.” Perhaps in the near future, freshmen will be heading over to the middle school to tutor in science, language arts, and foreign languages too. So far the math tutoring program has been a great success and hopefully may expand to encompass more topics. Good job and good luck freshmen!

Kathryn Sutton

Gossip was flying at the beginning of this school year over the newly introduced Freshman Academy. What is it? Why was it started? Is it good? For those who aren’t freshmen the news is mixed; teachers make it sound great, this school paper reports good news, and yet the freshman complain. Now, a semester into the 2008 – 2009 school year, some honesty can be brought to the table over the Academy.

The Freshman Academy is a touchy subject for some people, and the opinions of the students vary greatly. This year the Academy was instituted to aid incoming freshman with adapting to the high school, and making sure they have the skills to succeed in the following years. It is also a response to mounting studies showing the problems many students have in the transition between middle school and high school, where many students’ grades tank. As a major part of the Academy, a new class called Success in High School (SIHS) became mandatory for all freshmen. A semester later, some of the students are thankful for the extra help, while others are frustrated and would rather be on their own. Others are unsure, and don’t have a definitive point of view. Not much can be done to change the Academy now because of scheduling constraints, but is the opportunity to improve the program and avoid pitfalls that have occurred this year, so that next year things can flow smoothly.

In December 2008, 31 students of varying grade levels took an anonymous survey about the Freshman Academy. Here are the results of the surveys:

* 68% of the 31 students surveyed thought that they were well prepared for high school.
* 2/3 of the 31 students surveyed said they had good grades their first semester of high school.
* Although 59% of students surveyed appreciate the effort of the school to aid incoming freshman, 67% would choose not to be in the Academy.
* 3/5 of students said they don’t like being divided into teams.
* 81% of freshmen would rather take an elective than SIHS.
* Most students struggle with time management, study skills, and understanding GPA & class rank in high school. (Topics covered in SIHS)
* A majority of students said that high school rules, public speaking, and plagiarism weren’t problems for them, so there’s no need to include these in SIHS

Many students aren’t pleased with the Academy and would rather take an elective, but the Freshman Academy shouldn’t be abandoned so soon. The hostility toward the program is in part because it is a change, even if it is to help students. No matter how the program is changed there will likely still be harsh criticisms of it because it is in its early stages. In a few years most of that will die down, and the Academy will be much better because of time and experience. Students will likely be warmer towards it even if they don’t love it.

Some suggestions from the surveyed students may help teachers and administrators running the program. For example, instead of making the SIHS class mandatory for all students, target the ones who had lagging grades in middle school. The question for teachers is how to determine which grades count as lagging, as grading expectations differ between middle school and high school. One option is to devise an assessment for eighth grade students. Also, to make the SIHS class a few days a week instead of every day, or only one semester long. Contrary to the opinions of the teachers, many students believe there isn’t enough material to cover a full year, and students could take an elective second semester. A problem here might be creating enough electives for all of the students, but it makes more sense. Lastly, the students like spending time with their guidance counselors, and planning for the future. Maybe a good way to help the program would be to expand the number of days the students spend with their counselors from one, to two or three.

Another major reform for the program would be to edit the curriculum and take more time for planning and development. Freshmen surveyed reported that GPA, class rank, study skills, test taking skills, and what colleges look for were topics they really feel really they benefitted from. Stress management, high school rules, plagiarism, and the resources at PAHS were topics that some students felt were pointless. Using Vista and SAT prep are also potentially good topics to cover. An issue is that what is useful to one student isn’t a problem for another, so the curriculum is a lot of give and take. There also should be no homework for the class; it should be more fun, or more like a study hall.

Another suggestion is that there shouldn’t be teams. Teams were formed so that students’ English, Global Studies, and IEE teachers would be grouped together. That way, students could visit other teachers for help in SIHS. Also, the teachers can get together and discuss how to help students who are having problems, which is the main reason teams were started. But, with topics to teach in SIHS, students can’t visit another teacher on their team without missing class. Unfortunately, some students don’t have all of their teachers on the same team anyway. These cross- team students are at a severe disadvantage because teachers have tried to overlap projects into SIHS. Originally, students were supposed to take all honors or all CP level classes to eliminate cross-teaming. This idea was unpopular among students and parents and was quickly shot down. Teachers also have problems addressing both overlapping projects and the curriculum for SIHS because of limited time. There are other ways to help students without teams. Personally, as a freshman, I don’t think SIHS is a pointless idea for students. The concept is fine, but teachers need to target the students who need help with poor grades or lagging skills, rather than all of the students. Also, the organization and planning for the Freshman Academy was a little rushed, but the school can make it work with some changes.

Recently, a task force of board members, parents, students (current and graduated), teachers, administrators, and a college professor met to discuss the Ninth Grade Academy and the Success in High School course. It was decided that the Success in High School course is going to be renamed Freshmen Seminar to more accurately describe the course. The course teaches skills and concepts that are beyond success in high school. The curriculum is going to be reviewed and differentiated for the College Prep and Honors level. New changes will be discussed in future articles!

By: Ryan Tigro

Can you handle the responsibility? The pressure? The work? Can you handle taking over as Superintendent of the Phoenixville Area School District several months into the school year? Answering yes to all of these questions, Dr. Mancini has responded to the beck and call of the concerned residents in the area to get the Phoenixville Area School District back on track.

Earning his B.A. and M.A. from West Chester University and another M.A., as well as his Doctorate, from Lehigh University, Dr. Mancini has an accomplished resume. Dr. Mancini also brings a variety of firsthand experience and knowledge to Phoenixville. He began his educational career in Lancaster, where he held every position from teacher to principal. After seventeen years in Lancaster, he became Superintendent of Schools in Brandywine Area School District for eight years. Finally, he worked as Superintendent in the Upper Merion School District for seven years before retiring.

As Superintendent, Dr. Mancini’s job is to oversee all the schools in the district, meet with principals and discuss what is best for their school, and help establish a budget for the schools. These tasks add up to a massive 60-hour work week. Sometimes from four in the morning to seven at night, Dr. Mancini will be navigating and discussing the various tasks at hand in the area. Dr. Mancini’s goals are enormous undertakings in themselves. “The school district has to be good for everyone,” Dr. Mancini said. “My top three goals are to get through the economic struggle by creating a budget that can satisfy the people and keep the students happy, begin working on ideas for the new middle school (estimated to open in 2012!), and overall management of the area.” Dr. Mancini predicts that there are sure to be challenges in getting everyone to understand some new changes and trying to fund all the projects which, ideally, will make Phoenixville a better community.

Dr. Mancini is only an interim Superintendent, though, which means that by June 30th there needs to be a permanent replacement. The process of finding a replacement is vigorous and challenging. Through an executive search consultant, Dr. Mancini and the school board will get input from the community for the candidate’s qualifications and develop a job description based on that information. They will then send out an advertisement and screen applications of 10-12 candidates that will go through an extensive interview process. Dr. Mancini’s personal top qualities of a Superintendent are one’s, “work ethic, interpersonal skills, overall knowledge, orientation to kids, communication, and integrity.” His top priority, however, is in the best interest of the kids. “You have to care about the kids; if not, you can stay home,” he said.

Dr. Mancini started as many high schoolers do, with lots of talent but un-ambitious. “I didn’t work real hard in high school. I had lots of talent but didn’t know how to hurt. I learned that you can handle anything if you put in the effort. The Army helped me hurt and learn self discipline,” he admitted. His guidance counselor even asked, “Are you sure you can handle that?” when Dr. Mancini talked to him about college. Dr. Mancini could and did; he has faced plenty of challenges in his career and brings a positive atmosphere to Phoenixville. If you happen to catch Dr. Mancini during his busy day, give him a warm welcome and friendly thank you for accepting the needs and responsibilities of the community. Don’t forget to ask yourself, “Can you handle that?” during the next obstacle in your life. Like Dr. Mancini, you can answer “Yes,” hurt, and rise to any occasion.

Laura Gronski

This year, the Phoenixville Girls’ Basketball team ended their season with a record of 3-18. However, this year’s team was very young with only one senior going out for the team, exchange student Anette Servan. The juniors knew they had to step it up and they did just that. Kate Casaday, Johanna Martens and Lexi Lear led the team as captains this year. The varsity starters included Arie Keys, Johanna Martens, Kate Casaday, Lexi Lear and Catie Hamilton. Arie Keys wrapped up the season with 5.8 ppg, (points per game) 4 rpg, (rebounds per game), and 30 blocks. Martens received a total of 4 ppg, 2 apg (assists per game) and 15 3-point FGs (field goals). Casaday ended her season with 10.6 ppg, 2.6 rpg, and 31 3-point FGs. Lear ended her season with 5.6 ppg and 5.8 rpg. Hamilton rounded off her season with 1.7 ppg and 3.5 rpg.

This young PHX team gave the top two seeds in the Pac-10, St. Pius and Pottsgrove, some tough competition. The first time they played St. Pius, the number one seed in the Pac-10, t hey lost to them by 11 points. In the next matchup between Phoenixville and Pius, Phoenixville only lost by six points. Coach Rutchauskas commented that their toughest loss was to Spring Ford where they lost by 23 points, the biggest deficit of any game they played. Despite having a losing record, the team put a big effort into each game they played and their stats prove it.

This is Coach Rutchauskas’ 11th year coaching basketball. He has coached at Phoenixville for three years, and the other eight he coached at Pocono Mountain School District. Coach Rutchauskas receives varsity and JV help from Ashley Dvorak and Brian Tell.

The team was also made up of some underclassmen who really stepped up their game to play on the varsity level. Sophomores Amber Keys and Bekah Worley, as well as freshman Chandler DiFebbo, also improved, helping out both JV and varsity. Amber Keys ended her season with 3.8 ppg and 5.4 rpg, and DiFebbo totaled 4.4 ppg and 3.5 rpg.

Coach Rutchauskas is looking forward to next year because the team will get all their varsity players back, with more experience. Coach is hoping to see everyone improve in the off-season to get an advantage over the competition. “[The team] is full of great kids, a young group ready to move up to a varsity level,” commented Coach Rutchauskas. There is definitely a positive outlook on the court for next year!

He’s Just Not That into You is not your common cliché chick-flick. Yeah, some of the themes in the movie are the same and it is a little predictable, which does make it girly, but overall it is pretty realistic. This movie is about different relationships between people and how they deal with their problems. Whether the problems are dating, infidelity, or commitment, this movie covers them all. All of the individual problems the characters face are portrayed by an awesome cast including Jennifer Aniston, Ben Affleck, Drew Barrymore, Jennifer Connelly, Bradley Cooper, Kevin Connolly, Ginnifer Goodwin and Scarlett Johansson.

Dating is an issue for a couple of characters in the movie. Gigi (Ginnifer Goodwin) is always trying so hard to get dates and after she gives her number to any guy, she waits by the phone for hours hoping to get a call. She always gets mixed signals until the friend of one of the guys she is interested in clears her confusion up for her. His name is Alex (Justin Long); he is the one who explains the rule that, “If you can find him, then he can find you. If he wants to find you, he will." At first, Gigi is confused because she has heard of stories that didn’t follow that, but Alex says anything against that rule is an exception. This helps Gigi clear her head, but as she makes sense of what Alex tells her, she finds herself interested in Alex. However, she soon realizes that he does not feel the same.

Mary, (Drew Barrymore) is always looking for dates online, but doesn’t have much luck with that. She is always left feeling rejected and disconnected because she is always using technology to find a date. When she finally starts to get fed up, Mary explains, “I had this guy leave me a voice mail at work, so I called him at home, and then he emailed me to my BlackBerry, and so I texted to his cell, and now you just have to go around checking all these different portals just to get rejected by seven different technologies. It’s exhausting.” Her story in the movie shows the cons that technology-based dating can bring.

Dating is also a problem for Beth (Jennifer Aniston) and Neil (Ben Affleck), but in a different way. They’ve been together for seven years and Beth wants to get married. However, Neil isn’t ready for the commitment. He keeps coming up with excuses of why they shouldn’t get married, but Beth really wants to. This problem is too big of an issue to deal with, so they fight a lot and eventually break up because of it. The movie shows how they try to work through this problem.

The last two couples have intertwined stories. The first couple, Janine (Jennifer Connelly) and Ben (Bradley Cooper), are just-married and are struggling with trust and commitment. The second couple, Connor (Kevin Connolly) and Anna, (Scarlett Johansson) have issues because they don’t want the same things out of life. When Ben and Anna meet up at a grocery store they become attracted to each other, but when Ben tries to keep himself away from Anna it doesn’t work. This creates chaos in both of their lives.

When all's said and done, each of these stories comes to a conclusion, in some cases good and in some cases bad, but you will have to go see the movie to find out how all of the stories turn out! The overall message is really interesting and it is totally worth seeing! The best part about He’s Just Not That into You is the mixture of comedy and drama. I would definitely give this movie five stars!

Catherine DiGiacomo

PAHS students know the American culture like the back of their hands (that’s a given; we live here). But what other cultures do we know? Well, in order to gain a better knowledge of a couple of other cultures in the world, the Latin Club is planning an exciting opportunity to experience different cultures first-hand by traveling abroad on an educational vacation to Italy and Greece.

Magistra Curry (Latin club advisor) believes that the best way to study a culture or a language is to completely submerge yourself in it. She explains, “Since it’s difficult to find fluent Latin speakers with whom my students could interact, I’m more interested in giving students the opportunity to learn by exploring ancient sites firsthand rather than relying solely on pictures or written descriptions in textbooks.” Who wouldn’t agree with that, especially when you get to experience two fascinating (and let’s not forget gorgeous) countries? So, when M. Curry mentioned the trip to Felicia Dellaquila and Jessica Fritsche, they were ecstatic to get involved. The two Junior girls are helping plan this trip in accordance with their graduation project: benefitting Latin Club members and students who have an interest in the Greco-Roman world.

The trip will take place during the summer of 2010 and is being organized by the EF (Education First) program. (If this program is ringing a bell in your head, you may have heard of the trip to England that Mrs. Weinstein is going on over spring break, which is also using EF.) The Italy/Greece trip will last about ten days and students will be studying each culture. While traveling, they will visit numerous historical towns such as Pompeii and Athens and view the different architecture and landscapes. And of course, most importantly, they will also be able to taste delicious, authentic, Grecian and Italian food (not that Giant brand, pizza-kitchen junk!)

Of course, you can’t have all of the fun without doing the hard work first. The club is earnestly raising money to put towards this amazing opportunity. One of the fundraisers they have accomplished so far is one that you may have seen, or even participated in. Do you remember the signs in the hallways prodding you to purchase a teddy bear and send it to your friend/girlfriend? Well, you may not have known it, but that was all the Latin Club’s doing. The profits earned will be going towards that trip, as will some of their other fundraising plans which include possibly throwing a Masquerade ball, holding a dogwash/carwash, or even teaming up with the Guitar Club for an activity. However, they can’t raise any money if no one participates, so look out for the Latin club-hosted events, and come on out and support them. If you’re interested in attending this trip yourself, you are more than welcome! You do not have to be in the Latin Club to join the trip. Just email M. Curry at CurryN@pasd.com or see either Felicia or Jess to get some information!

Jacob Unson

Students of Phoenixville Area High School’s Mock Trial team participated in a scenario this year that sounds like a plot straight from NBC’s Law & Order. A family is suing a company for the wrongful death of their daughter, killed by a fellow employee at work during work hours. Divided into two groups, the Mock Trial Team went to the Chester County courthouse on February 19 and 20 to take part in a state-level Mock Trial competition. These competitions, designed to give students a better understanding of the justice system, allow students to step into the roles of lawyers, witnesses, and prosecutors and simulate real-world courtroom situations.

Representing Phoenixville on day one of the Trial was Team one, consisting of Alex Hytha, Anthony DiNardo, and Alex Dark as Lawyers, with Owen Howson, Rachel Dillinger, Kelsey Hodgkiss and Melissa Quinnen as Witnesses. Day two had Team two, respectively, with Dan Hammaker, Brendan Farrell, Samantha Henry, Paul Deichmann, and Jefferson Holbrook as Lawyers, and Talia DeMartinis, Alex Kray, Alex Babinchak, and Liz Beckerman as Witnesses. Both teams were coordinated by Katie Yoder.

The Phoenixville team went up against Henderson High School, but unfortunately lost. Nonetheless, the Phoenixville Mock Trial team was praised for their efforts by Judge Eric Trajtenberg in a letter to Mock Trial Advisor Mrs. Havrilla. “Your students did a terrific job during Round One of the competition. Everybody’s performance and demeanor was respectful, polite, and professional. You should be very proud of the students and all that they have accomplished,” Trajtenberg wrote, commending the team. In the end, all of the students involved came away from the experience with a proper impression of how our justice system functions everyday.

You might have seen them walking down the hallway together, or you might have seen them separate. At any rate, you probably have noticed they look exactly the same; yes, the people I’m talking about are juniors Andrew and Tom Cappelli, one of the pairs of twins roaming the hallways of Phoenixville Area High School. Andrew and Tom are identical twins, meaning that they share a lot of similar physical characteristics, but they’re surprisingly different in their personalities.

So what’s it like for these two boys to be twins? “I wouldn’t know ,” said Tom, “because I’ve never been anything but a twin. It’s kind of like having two names.” Andrew said, “It’s weird. Sometimes it’s on my mind that I’m a twin, and at other times it completely slips my mind.”

Andrew and Tom loved being twins when they were younger because they “always had someone to play with,” as Andrew stated. When they were younger, Andrew and Tom used to fool their teachers, making them think they were the other one. “[Our parents] even put us in matching outfits for Halloween,” said Tom. In fact, Andrew and Tom have been mistaken for each other so many times that they can’t even count. “We’ve been mistaken for each other so much,” said Tom, “that I basically answer to the name Andrew.”

But are all those mysteries about twins true? Do Andrew and Tom have a psychic twin connection? “Sometimes I can tell [Tom] has a bad day before I even see him,” said Andrew. Tom commented that sometimes they finish each other’s sentences.

In his spare time, Andrew likes to play video games, surf the net on YouTube, and play the harmonica. He even likes to stay in shape by running. Tom likes to wrestle in his spare time, he’s involved with the TV studio, and he’s even involved in the Fall Play (just like Andrew!).

In the future, Andrew wants to join the Air Force and Tom wants to join the ROTC and go into the field of medicine.

“It’s a lot of fun [being a twin],” said Andrew. “You always have someone who’s got your back.” Tom also likes being a twin because he always has someone who understands him. “It helps too,” Tom stated, “because you always have someone who knows the homework.”

Sometimes, however, they think that being a twin can be annoying because sometimes people see them as “The Cappelli’s” and not just two unique individuals. They also get annoyed with getting called the wrong name all of the time.

Overall, “We’re pretty close,” said Tom, “as close as any brothers would be.” “We get pretty angry at each other sometimes, but we’re still best friends.” said Andrew. Although they might not always get along, Andrew and Tom are close brothers and they always have each other’s back. They have their separate talents that make them unique, but they share a bond which will always be strong.

Nicole Risell

“I found God on the corner of 1st and Amistad

Where the west was all but won.”-“You Found Me” by The Fray

These are some of the lyrics in the latest hit song from The Fray. Formed in 2002 by front man Isaac Slade, The Fray is back with a brand-new self-titled album, The Fray. The album, which was released in February 2009, comes alive with heart-wrenching lyrics and stunning guitar and piano riffs. The Fray consists of Isaac Slade, Joe King, Ben Wysocki, and David Welsh. The band name was influenced by a suggestion box that was at Slade’s graduation party. Their first album, How to Save a Life, was released in September 2005. Their song, “How to Save a Life,” has sold over one million downloads. The first single off of the album, “Over My Head (Cable Car),” was influenced by Slade’s waning relationship with his brother, who was asked to leave the band shortly after its start.

Compared to their first album, the band’s second album is a lot more intense than their first. Their first album was mellow and easy-listening, whereas their second album is more rock and the band focuses on more guitar riffs, rather than the piano. Isaac Slade says, “The first record felt more like a handshake, it was so brief. This second one is more a cup of coffee and a chat. The first album was how to get the girl, this one is more how to keep her.” The songs on the second album convey heartbreak and sadness. The slow songs are slower and the louder songs are louder because of the guitar riffs.

While this album is great overall, a few of my personal favorites are “Syndicate” and “Ungodly Hour”. “Ungodly Hour” is reminiscent of their first album, with a lot of piano and slow harmonies and that’s why I’m a big fan of this song. I like “Syndicate” because of the compelling lyrics. “Halfway around the world/lies the one thing you want most” conveys a sense of wanting something that’s so close, yet so far away.

Everybody can relate to wanting someone or something that is ultimately unattainable. “You Found Me “is also one of my personal favorites. “……Just a little late/you found me” is a taste of the powerful lyrics in this song that questions why bad things happen to good people.

Overall, this album is a great pick and I definitely suggest you go to your local CD shop and pick it up. You won’t regret it!

Jon Wheel

Is it your dream to drive 200 mph down the streets of Hollywood in a Lamborghini? If so, it’s time to make your dreams come true. Midnight Club: Los Angeles gives you the ability to cruise around Los Angeles in one of 46 unique vehicles, ranging from a Ford Mustang to a Lamborghini Gallardo. There are five different car categories: tuners, muscle cars, luxury, bikes, and exotics, ranging from a $3,000 Volkswagen to a $580,000 Saleen S7. Of course, the entire game is set in Los Angeles, California. The city is amazingly realistic, from the Santa Monica pier on the beach to the Staples Center downtown. The map is much larger than all three cities combined in Midnight Club 3: DUB Edition, the previous installment in the Midnight Club series.

The objective of the game is to become the best street racer in L.A. Throughout the game, various street racers around the city will challenge you to different types of races, which consist of yellow checkpoints; the first one to reach the final red checkpoint wins the race. As you win more races, you earn more “rep.” Obviously, rep stands for reputation and how big you are in the street racing world. As you earn more rep, you will unlock new cars and parts so you can win races in style.

You start the game with an awful car, as an unnamed character. Then you meet a man named Booke, who gets you started in the street racing world. Next you meet Karol, who owns two garages in L.A. He will hook you up with all the cars and parts you need to become a legend in Hollywood. After you become a household name and earn one million dollars, you can buy into Karol’s garages and get all the cars and parts you want…absolutely free.

There is much more to Midnight Club: Los Angeles than just street racing against the computer. On PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360, you can play online against anyone else in the world. PSN’s “trophies” are supported, and Xbox 360’s “achievements” are as well. Another cool online feature is the Rockstar Games Social Club. Through this, you can track your stats, rate other players’ cars, and enroll in the Rockstar Games Driving Test. By completing challenges in the driving test, you can unlock in-game rewards, such as hydraulics, TIS rims, and after completing all 12 challenges, the stunning Audi R8.

Midnight Club: Los Angeles is definitely not one of those games you can beat in a weekend. It requires a lot of practice and patience to make it to the top. Heavy traffic, and of course the cops, will attempt to keep you out of the winner’s circle. The controls, though, are much easier to adjust to than the game itself. In fact, if you don’t like the controller configuration, you can choose the “Custom Controller” mode where you can make any button perform any function.

Your browser may not support display of this image. Midnight Club: Los Angeles is a must for any racing fan. Its amazing detail and realism provide a great visual aspect to an instant classic. The arcade-style gameplay is unbeatable, but constant challenges will hinder this game’s appeal. The other drivers seem too good, traffic never seems to get out of the way, and the cops are relentless. Still, this game deserves a solid 8.5/10. Midnight Club: Los Angeles is available for the PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360, as well as Midnight Club: LA Remix for the PlayStation Portable.

Catherine DiGiacomo

It has been another day in Phoenixville High School and you’re just getting home. You go upstairs, kick off your shoes and jump into a chair. What do you do now? Well, about 60% of you flip on the computer screen, and sign on to Facebook.

Facebook is an easy, quick and fun way to talk to your friends whenever you want and millions of people all over the world use it every day. You just log in, and click on a picture of your friend… or your friend’s friend… or even your friend’s friend’s brother’s ex-girlfriend’s second cousin twice removed (who possibly lives in Antarctica)… UH OH, Stranger Danger! Think about this: once you’ve brought up that person’s page you can see who she is friends with, what she looks like, how old she is, if she has a boyfriend… the list goes on… right down to what she is doing at that particular moment. Some people feel that since Facebook gives away a surplus of unneeded information to complete strangers, it could be harmful to the person being exposed. However, the website is not just a free-for-all giveaway of information. Those of us (most of us) who do not wish to have our personal information available for anyone to see have the option of setting our site to “Private,” which then locks our page to anyone who we do not permit to be our “friend.” If the allowance of information was the only possible danger of Facebook, this article would now end… but it’s not over. There are other dangers you may not have considered, such as spending too much time on Facebook, posting pictures of people participating in illegal activities, verbal abuse, and simply causing more drama in your life than you would prefer. So is Facebook a true danger? I asked you, and you answered.

A survey about teens’ use of Facebook was placed on a table next to other surveys and students were told to choose which ones they wanted to answer. Most of the people who chose this survey were female, 22 out of 30 exactly. So it was interesting to see the contrast between both genders and their opinions of Facebook.

*Insert Data*

After reviewing the data, it seems that females spend much more time on Facebook than males. This could be because of their gender roles; girls are generally more sociable creatures, more interactive and talkative than guys. One person from each group (male/female) said that a friend made their Facebook for them. This could be because that person either did not know how to make one, or (most likely) didn’t feel like making one. This shows how much the social group today relies on Facebook to communicate and interact. If you don’t make your own, someone will make it for you; you have to have one. In this high school, Facebook is used mostly to talk to friends, however, some people admitted to looking at pictures of people they didn’t even know or meeting new people via this website. However, most students said they felt that the possibility of being stalked by a sexual predator is a danger for people using Facebook. Add this to the fact that surveyed girls (68%) said they check their Facebook at least once a day, and 60% do this before they even hang out with their family. And if 81% of girls and 62% if guys believe that Facebook causes drama, why does everyone love it so much? Most of you that were surveyed also said that kids (10 or younger) are too young to be using Facebook, and most agreed that you should wait until high school to make a page. Fun fact-Facebook was originally made for college students. If it’s okay for high school students to be using it… how long will it take for it to be okay for middle school students or younger? Is this a good thing? Or could it be corrupting?

Your browser may not support display of this image.Your browser may not support display of this image.Your browser may not support display of this image.Your browser may not support display of this image. It seems to me that Facebook is very addictive. Although most of us can agree on the dangers of Facebook, we still want to be a part of them. Don’t get me wrong, I think Facebook is a great idea. It’s a great way to get in touch with old friends and see what events are coming up that I would want to go to. I also cannot tell you how many times it has saved my butt when it comes to remembering birthdays. There are many benefits of Facebook, so it’s easy to see why we love it so much. The bottom line, which I think everyone can agree on, is that you can’t let it rule your life, and you can’t abuse it. Posting pictures of yourself making “bad decisions,” (a bad decision in itself) checking it constantly, reading other peoples conversations, and getting into fights with your boyfriend/girlfriend because of something that he/she said or posted on Facebook is when Facebook turns ugly. Feel free to use this wonderful site, but in moderation. Try not to get addicted! (People of all ages using Facebook)

Marissa Rock



Mishelle Vanegas and Gaby Velasco are two freshman students here at Phoenixville High School. They are both from Guatemala and have recently celebrated their culture’s traditional “quinceañera” when the girls turned fifteen. Quinceañeras are celebrated in most Spanish-speaking countries and they symbolize a girl becoming a woman.

Mishelle and Gaby said they have more freedom after their quinceañera, and it is not comparable to our culture’s “Sweet Sixteen.” For their fifteenth birthday, girls can choose between a car, money, and a quinceañera celebration. Obviously, Mishelle and Gaby chose a quinceañera, which was a good choice, because common gifts at quinceañeras include money, perfume, purses and clothes. Usually anywhere from 200-500 people attend. The first part of the celebration takes place in church, and then the rest of the activities/dancing take place in a large space rented out by the family. Mishelle and Gaby also had limos drive them around to make them feel even more like princesses! However, Mishelle feels that the limos should be pink. Mishelle said her parents and uncles planned the celebration for her, while Gaby said it was mostly planned by her parents, but the whole family contributes in some way because the average cost of a quinceañera is $5-6,000!

A special event that takes place is the birthday girl’s dad changing her shoes. Since a new privilege of a 15-year-old woman is being allowed to wear high heels, their dads change their flat shoes to high heels during the quinceañera. Everyone that attends watches this, and enjoys the other activities such as dancing, eating, singing, as well as artists and mimes.

Mishelle said her party started around 5:00 and ended at 11:30; Gaby said hers went from 6:00-1:00 in the morning! Quinceañeras seem fairly short, for the amount of planning they take. Mishelle and Gaby said it is similar to prom with how they got ready and bought a dress, etc. However, it is more comparable to a wedding, because the birthday girl gets to choose fourteen other girls, (kind of like bridesmaids) who wear the same dresses, shoes and hairstyles. The birthday girl also has an escort that her parents have to know. However, the boy and girl do not have to be the same age, or a family member. The escort also gets to choose fourteen boys (kind of like groomsmen). Boys do not have an equivalent to a quinceañera; it is just for girls. However, boys do have the privilege of moving out when they are eighteen after a service in church.

This celebration is very exciting because these 15-year-old women receive many more privileges than before. At fourteen, the girls have to stay at home, go to church, and obviously obey their parents’ rules. At fifteen, they still have to listen to their parents, but they are allowed to go out with their friends, wear high heels and makeup, and have a boyfriend!

Overall, Mishelle and Gaby had fun at their quinceañeras, which were very special to them, their family and friends. The even more exciting part is that now they are officially women!

On Thursday, March 19, the Phoenixville Community Education Foundation (PCEF), Concerned Parents of the Phoenixville Area School District (CCPASD) and guidance counselors and administrators from the Phoenixville Area High School will join forces to present the 2nd Annual Phuture Phantom College and Career Fair.



The doors to the Phoenixville Area High School gym will open at 6 p.m. More than 50 colleges will be on hand to provide information about their respective schools, including information on academic and sports programs.



This event is free and open to anyone who has an interest in obtaining college and career information.



In addition, PAHS Guidance Counselors will also be hosting informational workshop sessions on SAT prep, the college application process, financial aid information and the NCAA Clearinghouse.



The schedule is as follows: SAT Prep Workshop hosted by Mrs. Jeanne Havrilla , 6:00 – 6:30 pm and 7:30 – 8:00 pm ; College Application Workshop hosted byMs. Judy Ishler, 6:00 – 6:30 pm; Financial Aid Workshop hosted by Mr. Keith Calil, President, College Aid Professionals, 7:00 – 8:00 pm and NCAA Clearinghouse for Collegiate Sports, hosted by Mr. Edward Yeager and Mr. Dave Rodenbough, 7:30 – 8:00 pm.



KellyAnne Scerbo, PAHS Guidance Counselor, said that excitement is in the air as the coordinators put the finishing touches on the Fair.



“This is a wonderful chance for our students to explore opportunities,” said Scerbo, who served as the guidance department coordinator. “We hope the fair will help our students make informed college and career decisions.”



Craig Parkinson, Assistant Principal at PAHS, said this year’s fair has grown substantially since last year’s debut.



He is extremely excited with the variety of the participating educational facilities and that schools as far away as New England and Richmond, Virginia will be in attendance.



Mr. Parkinson expressed his gratitude to the CCPASD group for their tremendous effort in organizing this fair for the second year.



This event is free for attendees; educational facilities donated $50 in order to participate. All proceeds from the fair will benefit economically-disadvantaged students pursuing a college education.



Among the participating colleges are: Albright College, Allegheny College, Alvernia College, Antonelli Institute Art & Photography, Antonelli Medical & Professional Institute, Arcadia University, Automotive Training Center, Binghamton University, Bloomsburg University, Cabrini College, Cedar Crest College, Central Pennsylvania College, Delaware County Community College, Delaware Valley College, Dickinson College, Eastern College, Elizabethtown College, Empire Beauty School, Franklin & Marshall, Gwynedd-Mercy College, Harcum College, Hofstra College, Holy Cross College, Holy Family, King’s College, Kutztown University, Lebanon Valley College, Lock Haven College, Manor College Montgomery County Community College, Neumann College, Pulse Beauty Academy, Rosemont College, St. Joseph’s University, Shippensburg College, Susquehanna University, Temple University, Restaurant School, Walnut Hill College, University of Massachusetts Amherst, University of Pittsburgh, University of Rhode Island, University of Richmond, Villanova University, Wake Forest, West Chester University and Widener University.