highpostonline.comMay 30, 2012 Volume 89 Issue 13

SENIOR ISSUE

2012

The High Post

2012

Dedicated. Goal orientated. Enthusiastic. Passionate. Devoted. Caela Long shows passion in all life ventures, and possesses the essence of a true achiever. Encompassing all areas, Long is a scholar athlete, who finds time to give back to the community. Leading the Greater Latrobe Senior High School’s class of 2012 as salutatorian did not come without effort. Taking on a full workload throughout high school, Long has an impressive total of eight AP classes, leading to her

GPA of 4.28. Recognized for her academic and athletic achievements, Long was a recipient of the KDKA Extra Effort Award, Trib Total Media’s Outstanding Young Citizen Award and a Driscoll Scholar Athlete finalist. A four-year starter and captain for two years, Long’s effort continued on the soccer field. Though balancing school and athletics can be a struggle for some, Long put equal zeal toward each. “Sometimes it just means making sacrifice between soccer practice,” said Long. Long’s humble nature leads her to give back to the community. Participating in community services activities through Key Club, volunteering over three-hundred hours during three summers for the Children’s Institute of Pittsburgh as a camp counselor for children with special needs or socioeconomic issues, tutoring sixth grade math students through National Honor Society and coaching Loyalhanna soccer demonstrates Long’s main passion of giving back. “Even on those long days at Institute, at the end I just knew I did something good,” says Long. “I always want to be a part of the community and continue to give back throughout my life.” Long accepts the role of salutatorian, leading the class of 2012 in the right direction. “I’m proud of it and know I accomplished a lot,” said Long. “I know that I have the responsibility to do the right thing and be a role model. I hope that I inspire people to accomplish the same.” Attending Swarthmore College in the fall, Long’s passion of giving back will continue through her college endeavors and ultimate career of neurology or orthopedic sports medicine. She will major in biology and continue onto medical school. Her interest in such a career peaked from her work at the Children’s Institute. “I saw how much I influenced their lives just as a teenager and saw the impact that the career as a doctor could have on their life,” said Long. As Long reflects on her time at Greater Latrobe, she thanks the teachers and class that have been so supportive of her, while leaving her own impact on the school for the future. “Our class is really close; we have always pulled together in the tough times and in the good times, we were there for each other,” said Long. “I want to leave the impact that you can accomplish anything, while balancing all the sports and grades. Don’t give up, and don’t let anybody tell you cannot do it.”

“My role in society… is to try and express what we all feel… Not as a preacher, not as a leader, but as a reflection of us all.” – John Lennon. The valedictorian of the class of 2012, Bryan Brasile, will graduate from Greater Latrobe with a 4.32. He will not only graduate with an outstanding GPA, but as a dedicated scholar, friend, worker, athlete and the leader of a class of amazing students. Brasile wasn’t always a stand out student, “I struggled throughout elementary school and I didn’t really try during junior high. Once I started to take classes that challenged me more I began to do extremely well,” said Brasile. Throughout Brasile’s three years at the senior high he not only took 10 of the 15 AP classes offered at Greater Latrobe but excelled in all of them including AP Stat, AP Calc AB and BC, AP Computer Science, AP English and AP Literature, AP US History, AP Biology, AP Physics and AP Chemistry. As a leader, Brasile was president of National Honor Society, French National Honor Society and French Club. Brasile is a three year Track and Field Letter winner, proving that not only is he an academic but also an athlete. On top of a heavy school load, a dedicated leader and an athlete, Brasile juggled two jobs, at McDonalds and Dunkin Donuts, working between 20 and 30 hours a week. Brasile’s work ethic was showcased through the late nights and not accepting anything besides an A. When he wasn’t working, his nights often consisted of napping from 4pm to 10pm and then going to Eat N Park until close to three in the morning. “I will not fall asleep in public, this was the only way to ensure that I would get all of my homework done,” said Brasile. Even when the nights were late and the work load heavy, Brasile motivated himself with the promise of a good college education with earned scholarships and financial aid. Brasile’s outgoing personality has helped him become more than just the valedictorian of the class of 2012, he has become a friend to many. “Bryan’s always very helpful, especially in school. He’s a hard worker and he’s always there for me whenever I need to vent,” said one of Brasile’s closest friends,

Hannah Hemminger. With a class full of student’s with bright futures, Brasile is just one the many graduating this year who will shine in their chosen fields. Brasile will major in Chemical Engineering with a minor in Computer Science at Ohio State University in the fall. Brasile plans to further continue his education once he graduates college.

The High Post2 • Top of the Class

Kaitlin Newingham In-Depth Editor

Valedictorian and Salutatorian demonstrate the hard work and dedication needed to achieveLeading the Class of 2012

Photograph Courtesy of Impressions

Class ofColorsPurple and YellowFlowerWhite NarcissusPresidentTory RussoVice President Allie CampbellSecretaryCarmalena MoffaTreasuer Ty Lydic Motto “Together we have experienced life, separately we will pursue our dreams, and forever our memories will remain.”Size 358 Students*Flag Committee Alex Brant, Alexa Bell, Molly Bruner, Rachell Corleto, Breanna Tryon and Allison Wisyanski

*subject to change

Jimmy Singer Editor-In-Chief

Valedictorian Bryan Brasile

Salutatorian Caela Long

Photograph Courtesy of Sears Photography

The High Post Post High School • 3

Alleghany College Rachel DuChateau- CommunicationsKelly Pohland- Mathematics

American UniversitySarah Miller- International Studies/ SpanishGabby Wast- AnthropologyJulia West- Communications/ Psychology

Art Institute of Pittsburgh Kelsey Stein- Culinary Arts

Barnard College Klaudia Long- English

Berklee College of Music Tom Maroon- Composition

Bethany CollegeRyan Bisi- Criminal Justice Kal Kemp- Undecided

Bloomsburg UniversityNatalie Mayo- Health SciencesAmberlyn Sacchetti- Music

Boston UniversityElly Hu- Pre- Med Kaitlin Newingham- Communications Bradford SchoolJacqueline DePree- Pharmacy Corby Kinzey- Nursing Taylor Richards- Medical AssistantChristina Sheridan- Graphic Design California University of Pennsylvania Chelsea Croner- Nursing John Durbin - Physical Therapy Tyler Frenchik- Robotics Alyssia Ong- Accounting

Calvin College Natalie Medic- Undecided

Carnegie Mellon University Daniel Ferguson- Undecided

Cleveland Institute of Art Michael Sonnie- Transportation Design

Cleveland State University Allie Campbell- Occupational Therapy

Conemaugh School of NursingJessica Doris- Nursing

Delaware Valley CollegeRebecca Keefe- Equine Studies

DePaul UniversityAlly Bair- Undecided

Dickinson CollegeAlexa Bell- International Business and Management

Duquesne UniversityRachel Komisak- Nursing Alex Morris- Marketing Taylor Pollock- Biology Jessica Shivetts- Business Management/ Marketing Alyssa Turin- Forensic Science Eastern Michigan University Jeff Elam- Business Administration Tyler Ross- Biology

Edinboro University Ryan Clark- Animation Breanna Tryon- Photography/ Graphic Design

Embry-Riddle Aeronautical UniversityJonathan Skoloda- Aerospace Engineering

Fordham University Brendan Moss- Pre-Med

Gannon University Meghan Kernicky- Occupational TherapyRachel Stauffer- Pre-Dental

Gettysburg CollegeNina Wickham- Biology

George Mason UniversityDominic Shojaie- Business

Grove City CollegeLauren Hennessey- Psychology Stevie Huston- Biology

Florida Gulf Coast UniversityGordon Sapir- Marie Biology/ Earth and Environment Technology

High Point University Devon Gjebre- Undecided

Indiana UniversityAlexis Yazge- Marketing

Indiana University of Pennsylvania Daja Alford- Culinary and Baking and PastryAlex Beatty- Biology Bryan Byich- Pre-Dental Lisa D’Amato- Nursing Zach Daigle- Business Management and Political Science Jordan Giannini- BusinessEthan Greek- Finance Abbey Hill- BiologyJonathan Hill- Marketing Shelby Hissem- Studio ArtTy Holler- Health and Physical Education Jake LeJeune- Music Education Ryan Licastro- EconomicsCody Miller- UndecidedDeb Pandini- UndecidedTravis Rozik- Accounting Hunter Runkle- Criminal Justice Lizzie Ruppen- Nursing Daniel Sarver- Art HistoryEmma Terek- Early Childhood EducationJimmy Zimmerman- Music Education

James Madison UniversityMitchell Wilt- International Business

Juniata CollegeKatie Douds- BiochemistryDrew Eline- Zoology/Wildlife Conservation

Kent State UniversityTaylor Ashcraft- UndecidedDavid Halula- UndecidedSam Palombo- Engineering Aaron Shivetts- Business

The Future of the Class of 2012

The High Post4 • Post High School

Lehigh UniversityRyan Staffen- Mechanical Engineering Methodist UniversityBlaise Moffa- Business Administraition

Miami University Ian Steel- Mechanical Engineering

Muhlenberg CollegeCourtney Joseph- Media Communications

New York University Charlie Musick- Engineering

North Allegheny Community College Thomas Kinzey- Automotive Technology

Ohio Northern UniversityEmily Puleo- Engineering The Ohio State UniversityBryan Brasile- Chemical Engineering

Ohio University Nathan Apel- Mechanical Engineering Dan Kubus- Photojournalism

Penn College of TechnologyCory Saddler- Electrical Technology and Renewable Energy Luke Zamiskie- Civil Engineering

Penn State University Alex Brant- Communication Sciences and Disorders Laura DeLuca- Architecture Alex Palmer- Supply- Chain Management Angela Peretti- Engineering Katie Thompson- Bioengineering Patrick Trumbetta- Mechanical Engineering/Design Engineering Amanda Wagner- Bioengineering Bobby Wertz- Petroleum Engineering Emily Yokopenic- Nuclear EngineeringAltoona Christian Bonar- Chemical Engineering Mac Flasher- Civil Engineering Tyler Peffer- Biology Dustin Shaffer- BusinessElizabeth Stape- Forensic ScienceChloe Tsikalas- Speech Pathology and Audiology

Behrend Lexie Pelchen- EnglishLauren Truxal- Biology

Fayette Brandon Clark- Criminology

Point Park University Richie Horne- Mechanical Engineering Morgan Stout- Secondary Education

Regent UniversityNatalie Ryall- Early Childhood Education

Rensselaer Polytechnic InstituteAustin Faddish- Engineering

Robert Morris University Jessie Arandas- Accounting Rachael Bald- Graphic DesignAlex Capo- Computer Information SystemsSean Cawood- Tourism/ Hotel and Restaurant Manage-mentChristina Majorsky- Marketing

Seton Hill UniversityAshley Dunlop- Criminal JusticeEmma Firment- Music Education Brooke Hebrank- Biology

Slippery Rock UniversityNathan Bryan- Sports Management JT Douglas- UndecidedKaitlyn Gidick- English Kaitlyn Kernicky- Psychology Katie Uhring- Exercise Science

St. Francis UniversityShea Augustine- Physician Assistant Katie Holtzer- Political Science

Saint Vincent CollegeTaylor Adams- Early Childhood Education Ben Bigo- Undecided Celeste Brasile- Physican Assistant Molly Bruner- UndecidedGeoff Critchfield- BusinessDom DePalma- Undecided Chris Jabbour- Undecided Annie Jakubek- BiologyJessica Kissel- English Chelsea Marsh- Pharmacy Natalie Nakles- Bioinformatics Ryan Novak- Environmental Science Mickey Orange- Biology Jake Reed- Business Vincent Regula- Early Childhood Education Cam Roth- BusinessSeth Shick- UndecidedJimmy Singer- Communications Jocelyn Stas- Marketing Kylie Tallarico- Secondary Education Rabia Uddin- Political Science Jessica Vittone- Pre- Optometry Kelsie Zoppetti- Undecided

Standford Brown InstituteJessica Trout- Medical Assistant

Swarthmore College Caela Long- Biology

Syracuse UniversityDannielle Pratt- Biology Tory Russo- International Relations Temple UniversityAdella Hillebrecht- Political ScienceMichael Leonesceu- Accounting

Thiel CollegeJames Belcher- Biology/ Pre-med

Triangle Tech Ann Johnson- HVACErick Kowatch- Commercial Electrician

Undecided CollegeAndrew Coleman- Heavy Machinery Stacia Kissell- UndecidedJessie Miller- Languages and International Relations Sam Moore- UndecidedPhilly de Verduzan- Nursing

“For those future Bearcats out there, an important thing to remember about Saint Vincent is that it’s all about community. Saint Vincent is a place that may look small, but because of that it’s a place where you get to be big. So, embrace the Saint Vincent family and enjoy every minute of being big in a small place.” –Mrs. Snyder, English

The High Post Post High School • 5University of AkronHannah Hemminger- Nurse Anesthesia University of California Santa Barbara Jillian McLaren- Undecided

University of DaytonPatrick Long- Business University of Findlay Savana Moore- Western Equestrian University of PittsburghLuiza Arieta- Biology- Pre MedZach Battaglia- Undecided Kati Jo Bozelli- Biology- Pre Med Jordan Buches- Chemistry Rebecca Findle- Nursing Joe Friend- UndecidedCopley Fry- Biology Beau Gribbin- Engineering Jacob Koluder- Undecided Marisa Larkin- Actuary Science Ty Lydic- Business David Moffa- Biology Carmelena Moffa- Political Science/ SpanishLauren Morlacci- EngineeringTrevor Octavio- Biological Sciences/ Spanish Phil Pointkowski- Biology/ Neuroscience Melissa Sinemus- Chemical Engineering Taylor Smail- Business

GreensburgEmily Banner- Undecided Tom Barchesky- Management Carly Hudson- Pharmacy Mike Sackandy- Engineering Zach Sims- Elementary Education Doug Smeltzer- Chemical Engineering Angelica Taylor- Music and English EducationAutumn Taylor- Journalism JohnstownKelly Dick- UndecidedKaylee Eans- NursingBlaise Werner- Electrical Engineering Kyp Wojciechowski- History and Political Science

University of Vermont Amanda Adams- Wildlife and Fisheries

Virginia Commonwealth University Adam Stynchula- Cinema/Religious Studies

Vet Tech Institute Kayla Hall- Vet TechHayley Majorsky- Vet Tech

Virginia Tech UniversityLucas Bureau- History

Washington and Jefferson College Sly Revitsky- Business

Waynesburg UniversityKayla Bleckley- English Literature

Tye Nave- UndecidedNick Nelson- Robotics Engineering Technology Michael Nicely- Undecided Amber Nuttall- UndecidedChelsea Orner- CulinarySydney Peagler- Undecided Emily Perna- Nursing Amanda Pletcher- Elementary Education Lyndsie Porter- Accounting and Business Management Alexis Rain- Fire Science Technology Brittney Ramsey- Nursing/ Ultrasound Technology Sammi Recklein- Criminology Nick Richter- Undecided Nick Rubino- Business Tatiana Ryan- Undecided Jimmy Sarver- Business Miranda Sherback- Undecided Matt Shoemaker- UndecidedSamantha Shurie- Photography Brandon Siwiak- BusinessKayla Smith- Forensics Matt Steele- HVACKarley Steeves- Radiology Riley Steward- BusinessBrandon Tlumack- Undecided Gretchen Uhrinek- Journalism- Political Science Rob Ulishney- UndecidedJoe Wallak- UndecidedChrissy Weyandt- Undecided Nick Wilkins- Website design Caitlyn Williams- General Requirements Jessie Wylie- UndecidedJami Zappone- Unknown Alyssa Zello- Nursing

Wheeling Jesuit University Rachel Conrad- Athletic Training

Xavier University Allison Wisyanski- Undecided

York College of PennsylvaniaTera Pettina- Radiology

Youngstown State UniversityDylan Colucci- UndecidedLuray Hixson- Physical Therapy Work Force

Jen Brown- International MissionsDylan Deglau- History Connor Furwa- Biochemical Engineering Derrick Zavatsky- Accounting

West Virginia UniversityDerek Edwards- Mining Engineering Richie Hall- Undecided Amanda Koch- BusinessAudrie Kuntz- CommunicationsJustin Maust- Petroleum of Natural Gas Engineering Ashley Miller- Accounting Nick Stano- Engineering Joe Yanarella- Nursing

Westchester UniversityTim Cengia- Physics

Westminster UniversityCandace Hall- Undecided

Westmoreland County Community CollegeJarred Baker- Undecided Colin Bauerle- BusinessRobert Baum- Information Technology Megan Bollinger- Art- Anime Design Shannon Bossart- UndecidedBrooke Burk- Early Childhood Education Kelsey Clark- Computer Programming Linda Comunale- Nursing Hannah David- UndecidedSummer David- Education John Dickson- Liberal ArtsVictoria Donley- UndecidedLisa Dorundo- Undecided Amber Dunn- Business Kayla Durick- Restaurant/ Culinary Management Kayla Falat- Undecided Jessica Falbo- NursingAlexis Fannie- Nursing Kayla Findish- NursingBrittany Firestone- UndecidedKailin Fisher- Nursing Samantha Frenchik- Nursing Luke Gaten- UndecidedLauryn Gianotti- Nursing Graham Greene- Liberal Arts Mallory Gruss- Undecided Mike Halula- Undecided RJ Imbrogno- Business/Sports Management Roslyn John- Undecided Ricky Keltz- Criminal JusticeZach Kennedy- UndecidedKelsey Korzak- Dental Hygiene Kyle Kuntz- Undecided Krystina Kuszajewski- NursingJessica Leach- Medical Assisting Candice Leonard- UndecidedHadyn Lezanic- Undecided Alison Lubic- Early Childhood Education Josh Matuszky- BusinessCasey McKlveen- Welding Jordan Morosini- Sonogram technology/ nursing Matty Morrow- Nursing Jeffrey Murphy- Business Associates

Devin BoettnerAmber Brant Nathan BrownAnthony CopeKevin Dominick Dayton Hazlett

Eric Henry Trevor LoveDavid MattenyKelli McAfooseBrandon McClureSummer Mooney

Cody Revitsky Nathan RichardsonJen Rosebosky Bill SilvisBilly Steward Patience Wilson

Sammi CookJames Good Nick Heining Courtney Noel Emilie Shuhart Josh Prohaska Sam LupchinskyBrittany Smith Jessica Warren Rachell Corleto Breann Culler Frank Doris Brad Douglas

John DunlapJosh Dunlap Jake Enos Sammi Foschia Max MendlerBernie MurphyJulie LopatichJosh PresockRobert RepkoShelby RepkoJacob SnyderCassie Weaver

Undecided

Not ListedJohn Donitzen Austin Dorko Lindsey Palek

Branch of military: ArmyStationed: To be determined Occupation: 13 Bravo“[I joined the Army] because it’s my way of giving back to society and it gives me the opportunity to protect the country and the people that have protected me.”

Branch of military: MarinesStationed: AustraliaOccupation: Engineer“[I joined the Marines] mostly due to the challenge and the title.”

The High Post6 • Military

Branch of military: Army ReservesStationed: Greensburg, PennsylvaniaOccupation: Truck driver (possibly)“[I joined the Army Reserves] because there are a lot of job opportunities and it feels to be a duty to my country because if I don’t do it, who will?”

Branch of military: Army ReservesStationed: Greensburg, PennsylvaniaOccupation: Most likely 88 mic“[I joined the Army] because I have grown up around the army due to my dad’s career.”

Angelica Taylor Autumn Taylor

Daniel Hamilton

Branch of military: ArmyStationed: Ft. Benning, GeorgiaOccupation: 11 x-ray (infantry) Airbourne Ranger“[I joined the Army] because college and school isn’t my thing so I chose the army to see the world, be in the best shape, and have all the thrills it will give me.”

Scott Mohring

Branch of military: ArmyStationed: 300th CBRN Co, JohnstownOccupation: 74D chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear specialist (CBRN). “[I joined the Army because this position] was one that was open that sounded the most interesting.”

Phil Schnupp

Branch of military: Navy SealsStationed:GeorgiaOccupation: Seal “[I joined the Navy] because my grandfather had it on his wishlist before he died that I would follow his footsteps.”

Darrell Brown Garrett Fennell

Branch of military: Marine CorpsStationed: Ebensburg, PennsylvaniaOccupation: 3531 motor vehicle operator

Cameron Wells

Branch of military: NavyStationed: Great Lakes, Illinois“[I joined the Navy] because I came from a military family and wanted to continue it down the line and make a difference.”

Brandy Jacobs

Graduates Serving Our Country

Others going into the military:Bryar PletcherJosh Matuszky

rotcZach Daigle

Jonathan SkolodaIan Steel

“This world is not a nice place by any means. There are very bad people and they need stopped. My gift is leadership and I feel that I can use that in a positive way to help change the world and I think that doing so through the army is my best bet. It’s always been something I wanted to do and a lot of people have defended this country for years and it’s something I want to be a part of because I don’t want someone else to put their life on the line when there’s something I can do as well.”~Zach Daigle

Reserve Officer Training Corps

~Compiled By Rachel Stauffer, Features Editor

The High Post Memories • 7

Wildcat memories What was your most embarrassing moment?

~Compiled By Klaudia Long, Opinions Editor and Courtney Joseph, Reporter

“Falling up the steps in the H stair well.”~Thomas Kinzey

“When Annie fell in the hallway because it was wet due to rain.”~Kaitlyn Kernicky

“On the last day of gym junior year I sneezed and when I turned to grab a tissue I accidentally flung snot on Drew Eline. “~Brenden Moss

“Face planting in front of my whole class while doing a presentation in a dress.”~Matty Morrow

“Every introduction to a new novel in AP Literature with Mrs. Snyder.”~Carmelena Moffa

“No specific moment, but everyday going to Mr. Duda’s class and never knowing what he’s going to say.”~J.T. Douglass

“Spending everyday in Euro watching Mrs. Penzera and Mr. Ferraro playfully fighting with each other. They made a great teaching duo.” ~Meghan Kernicky

“Whenever Mrs. Butler threw lotion at Chloe and it exploded everywhere!”~Annie Jakubek

“Attending prom my senior year.”~Emily Yokopenic

“My favorite high school memory is Tuesday night Glee nights.” ~Alexa Bell

“The one day in Costa Del Sol on the Spain trip when we went on adventures around the hotel.” ~Rebecca Findle

“Playing soccer for four years.” ~Mike Leonescu

“Senior prom helped to make this the best year of high school because I got to dance with my friends and had too much fun to remember to go to the photobooth. Way more fun than last year!”~Rachel Komisak

“Going to all the football games.”~ Christian Bonar

“Mock trial because Mrs. Leeper is the best teacher in the world.”~Adella Hillebrecht

“Sixth grade camp!”~Mike Sackandy

What was your favorite high school memory?

What was your favorite memory with a teacher?

What was your favorite school wide event?

8 • Sports The High Post • 9

Carmelena moffa

Sport: SoftballSchool: University of PittsburghPosition: Second Base

Dylan ColuCCi

Sport: FootballSchool: Youngstown State UniversityPosition: Guard and Defensive End

WilDCat stanDouts Continue to Collegiate sports

staCia Kissell

Sport: TennisSchool: North Carolina State orWestern Carolina UniversityPosition: Singles and Doubles

ty lyDiC

Sport: WrestlingSchool: University of PittsburghPosition: n/a

lauren truxal

Sport: SoccerSchool: Penn State BehringPosition: Center Mid and Defense

JaKe reeD

Sport: GolfSchool: Saint Vincent CollegePosition: n/a

tyler ross

Sport: Track and FieldSchool: Eastern Michigan UniversityPosition: n/a

JorDan giannini

Sport: BaseballSchool: Indiana University of PAPosition: Short Stop

Jen broWn

Sport: Cross CountrySchool: Waynesburg UniversityPosition: n/a

Jeff elam

Sport: Track and FieldSchool: Eastern Michigan UniversityPosition: n/a

Katie DouDs

Sport: SwimmingSchool: Juniata CollegePosition: n/a

luCas bureau

Sport: SwimmingSchool: Virginia TechPosition: n/a

other athletesSoccer: Justin Maust WVU, Jeffery Murphy WCCC, Lauren Truxal Penn State Behrend, Caela Long Swarthmore CollegeGolf: Blaise Moffa- Methodist University, Cam Roth- St. Vincent College, Jake Reed- St. Vincent CollegeLacrosse: Jordan Morosini- WCCC, Cory Saddler- Penn College of TechnologyCross Country: Kyle Kuntz- WCCC, Jen Brown- Waynesburg UniversityBaseball: Matt Shoemaker- WCCC, RJ Imbrogno- WCCC, Jordan Giannini- IUP, Derrick Zavatsky- Waynesburg University, Dom Depalma- St. Vincent College, Brandon Clark- Penn State Fayette, Luke Zamiskie- Penn College of Technology, Ryan Bisi- Bethany College Equestrian: Jillian McLaren- University of California Santa Barbara, Ashley Dunlop- Seton Hill University, Brooke Hebrank- Seton Hill UniversityField Hockey: Jordan Buches- University of PittsburghWrestling: Ty Lydic- University of PittsburghIce Hockey: Jake Koluder- University of Pittsburgh, Ryan Licastro- IUP, Alyssia Ong- California University of PA, Dustin Shaffer- Penn State Altoona, Ryan Staffen- Lehigh University: Tom Barchesky- University of Pittsburgh at GreensburgSoftball: Carmelena Moffa- University of Pittsburgh, Rachel Conrad- Wheeling Jesuit University, Emily Banner- University of Pittsburgh at Greensburg, Rifle: Zach Daigle- IUPFootball: Sly Revitsky- Washington and Jefferson College, Daniel Ferguson- Carnegie Mellon University, Dylan Colucci- Youngstown State UniversityVolleyball: Tyler Peffer- Penn State Altoona, Jonathan Skoloda- Embry-Riddle Aeronautical UniversityTrack and Field: Savana Moore- University of Findlay, Jeff Elam- Eastern Michigan University, Tyler Ross- Eastern Michigan University, Paintball: Richie Horne- Point Park University, Mike Sackandy- University of Pittsburgh at GreensburgDiving: Candace Hall- Westminster College, Tim Cengia- Westchester UniversityTennis: Doug Smeltzer- University of Pittsburgh at GreensburgSwimming: Lucas Bureau- Virginia Tech, Katie Douds- Juniata College

Jeff elam - 100 meter Dash- time: 10.85 - 110 meter high hurDles- time: 14.55 - 300 meter intermeDiate hurDles- time: 37.55

tyler ross - 400 meter Dash- time: 49.36

elam, ross, rJ imbrogno, marCus smail - 4 x 4 relay- time: 3:20.12

luCas bureau -50 freestyle- time: 21.06 -100 freestyle- time: 45.21 -200 freestyle- time: 1:38.33 -100 butterfly- time: 49.97 -100 baCKstroKe- time: 53.28 -100 breast stroKe- time: 59.34 -2oo inDiviDual meDley- time: 1:54.19

ty lyDiC -aChieveD the Century marK WhiCh a Wrestler reCeives after Winning 100 matChes

senior reCorD breaKers

~Compiled by Shea Augustine, Sports Editor

“Keep your eye on the prize, and never give up!”–Mr. Cook, Social Studies

“Sit in the front of the class. Make friends with the smart kids.Join study groups.Hold hands and hang on tight!” –Ms. Zalewski, French

“College should be the best time of your life so enjoy yourself and take advantage of all the resources available to you. But remember that you have to self-regulate your behavior so you don’t flunk out the first semester. I remember a major exodus from the dorms in December. Good luck and have fun!” –Ms. Kniff, Science

“Whatever you choose to do, give it your best effort, and be a positive influence on the world. As a graduate of Indiana University of PA, I can say that it provided me with a quality education at a reasonable price, and I recommend it highly. However, any school you choose will provide you with an opportunity to be successful, but also create situations to be unsuccessful. It all depends on the decisions you make. Please make the right decisions, and I wish all of you the best of Luck.”–Mr. Schrecengost, Mathematics

“I would have to give the advice that I give to anyone who asks--try to take a passion you have and make a career out of it. You will spend countless hours of life at work--might as well be doing something you love while you’re at it!”–Mrs. Mack, Art

“Remember it’s not where you start in life, it’s where you finish that counts. Best of Luck to the class of 2011- 2012!”–Mr. Saveikis, Social Studies

“When you are in the ‘real world,’ don’t throw food at lunch. Your boss won’t think that you are funny, in fact, he’ll probably fire you!”–Mrs. Ryder, Spanish (after returning from cafeteria duty)

“A person who is afraid to fail will never be successful.”–Mr. Gorinski, Physical Education

“No matter what path you choose to follow, always be timely and organized. If you practice these skills everything else will fall into place and lead to success!”–Mrs. Burford, Family and Consumer Sciences

“Whatever you do in life, do it with integrity.”–Mrs. Pompelia, Mathematics

“Take every opportunity to learn all that you can and work toward becoming self sufficient. Sometimes in life, the only person you can really count on is yourself.”–Mr. William Snyder, Social Studies

“Do not plan on everything you plan on to become a reality. Always expect the unexpected and learn and grow from what life puts in your path. Accept change as a positive in your life and find a way to always make something good come from it. Above all, believe in yourself and your ability to succeed in whatever you choose to do. Good luck, enjoy, and God Bless.”–Ms. Fennell, Mathematics

“MAKE IT A GREAT DAY OR NOT, THE CHOICE IS YOURS!!”–Mr. Marucco, Science

“My advice is to take the time to get to know foreign exchange students, and be open to their points of views and different cultures.”–Ms. Harvey, Spanish

“Take advantage of what a smaller school has to offer. I am grateful for the personal relationships I established at Seton Hill, as well as the passion I developed for my studies. Not only did I meet new friends, but I developed a long lasting professional relationship with my professors. Be mindful of your choices and set high expectations. Best wishes for a successful and happy future!” –Mrs. Leeper, Social Studies

The High Post10 • Teacher Advice

~Compiled By Stevie Huston, Reporter and Jimmy Singer, Editor-In-Chief

Teachers Give Advice for SuccessPassionate teachers and faculty have influenced students throughout their educational career. Lecturing in front of the class, encouraging work on a project, or answering questions before an exam during seminar time, teachers have shared countless lessons through each class period, school day, and school year to students. Shaping the current seniors throughout the past twelve years, teachers share advice that will lead to a successful future for the class of 2012.

The High Post11 • Seniors 2012

The Up & Coming of 2012

Charlie Musick• Steve Jobs

By the looks of Charlie, he may always seem frazzled with his usual book bag exploding with papers, but in reality, he has a million thoughts going on. He is the guy to go to for technology issues or a random fact. Like Steve Jobs, he is always ahead of the curve.

Drew Eline • Jane Goodall

Mickey Orange • Frank Sinatra

Adam Stynchula • Steven Spielberg

Daja Alford • Buddy Valastro

Rachel DeChateau • Kristin Martin

Alex Brant • Martha Stewart

Dan Kubus • Ansel Adams

Patrick Long • Donald Trump

Tom Maroon • Dave Matthews

Just like Martha Stewart, Alex Brant really knows her crafts! She designed and made two prom and three homecoming dresses and bakes the cutest treats, including her traditional Ground Hogs Day cookies. One can commonly find Alex knitting, producing fashionable creations like sweaters and scarves. As co-founder of the United As

One, Patrick Long is preparing for a business magnate lifestyle. He handles logistics, dictates other helpers, and plans for this group. Through this group, Patrick has helped sell over a 1,300 t-shirts in memory of Zach Colucci and organize the spaghetti dinner for the Guzik family.

Since fourth grade, Rachel has performed in over a dozen shows through GLSD, Bethany Players, and Apple Hill Playhouse, as well as par-ticipated in theater classes in Ohio. Her shining personality and energy light up the stage wherever she is performing and her enthusiasm is that of a Broadway Star.

Although he’s barely an adult, Dan Kubus has gained the experience of most professional photographers throughout his high school career. He has taken pictures for the local paper, the Latrobe Bulletin, covered St. Vincent’s Steelers training camp, and photographed the Winter Classic. Kubus plans to attend Ohio University for photography.

Drew’s love of animals is likened to this famous zoologist. She has led the animal food drive at the high school for three years and plans to study zoology in college. Drew is particularly interested in felines and plans to focus her study on large cats, especially the snow leopard.

Tom’s ease in front of an audience contributes to his exceptional talent in music. He sings and plays guitar almost every week at the Keynote Café and Pitzer’s restaurant, and at the Latrobe Art Center. He also performs in a band called Abbey Roadsters and writes his own songs. He plans to pursue music in college and hopefully create his own records.

Since junior high, Adam has been running “Stynch Studios,” writing and directing over twenty films. He sets himself apart from others in his meticulous attention to light, sound, pace, framing, and characters. Adam aspires to become a film director like Spielberg,

Mickey has wowed audiences with his old-time Sinatra sound at many venues throughout the community including DeNunzio’s Chophouse at the Arnold Palmer Regional Airport, the Fred Rogers Center, the Ramada Greensburg, and various church events. His voice has a unique quality that likens him to this old star. Mickey plans to audition for St. Vincent’s cammerata choir.

From a young age, Daja Alford has loved to cook. “When I was five all I wanted to do was help my mom in the kitchen and try and make her breakfast,” said Alford with a laugh. Now, as a future graduate of Greater Latrobe and EWCTC, Alford hopes to continue this passion by getting her degree at Westmoreland County Community College in restaurant culinary management. Her dream is to one day own her own café bakery somewhere near a beach.

The High Post12 • Seniors 2012

The CLass of 2012 leaving their pawprint

The top five percent of GLSD’s 2012 graduating class were recognized with a dinner at DeNunzio’s Chophouse at the Arnold Palmer Regional Airport on Wednesday, May 9. Each student invited a teacher whom they feel had the most impact on their educational career at GLSD. The following twenty-one students were among the top five percent, followed by the teacher they brought: Luiza Arieta Frota DeSouza, Mr. Jeff Duda, English; Kayla Bleckley, Mr. Jeff Duda, English; Bryan Brasile, Mrs. Lynn Keyser, science; Catherine Douds, Mrs. Rebecca Snyder, English; Drew Eline, Mr. Robert Saveikis, history; Austin Faddish, Mrs. Kelly Echard, math; Daniel Ferguson, Mr. Fred Rost, science; Rebecca Findle, Mrs. Jennifer LeVan, science; Beau Gribbin, Mr. Fred Rost, science; Lauren Hennessey, (did not attend); Courtney Joseph, Mrs. Rebecca Snyder, English; Jessica Kissel, Mrs. Lorraine Bryner, math; Rachel Komisak, Mr. Andrew Wnek, science; Marisa Larkin, Mr. Fred Rost, science; Caela Long, Mr. Dan Krack, English; Carmelena Moffa, Mrs. Cindy Pompelia, math; Philip Piontkowski, (did not attend); Kelly Pohland, Mrs. Cindy Pompelia, math; Taylor Pollock, Mrs. Linda Kubus,

- Courtney Joseph

Greater Latrobe was made famous by the transformation of senior Natalie Nakles on the MTV series ‘Made,’ however, Nakles has more talents then being the lead singer of ‘NayKills.’ Her future is as bright as the stage was at her big debut at the battle of the bands in 2009. “Aside from ‘Made,’ I just absolutely love playing piano; I’m never going to give up playing,” said Nakles. “Music has always been one of my favorite things ever in my life. I love playing it for other people because I feel the energy through the music flowing through me and I like to share that happiness through other people.” Nakles variety of interests leads to an equally diverse passion. “I don’t think I have one true passion – its split between art and science,” affirmed Nakles. “A creative mind is needed to find something new or unexpected.” Collaboratively connecting her passions in all aspects of her life, especially academics, she won an award for a recent project in Anatomy. Creating a descriptive and interactive project to stress the importance of “the Golden Hour,” Nakles’ constructed 3-D models of the heart and brain to show the symptoms of heart attacks and the impact of strokes on the organs. She won best overall in the school receiving $100, and advanced to the hospital’s next level, winning a $1,000 scholarship. Further academically challenging herself, Nakles challenged herself to the Wimmer Scholarship exam at Saint Vincent College. Winning second place, Nakles received a full-ride scholarship to Saint Vincent College, her first choice in colleges. “I really wanted to go to Saint Vincent College because they have a program called bioinformatics, combining biology and computers, involved within genetics, and treating genetic diseases, as well as cell regeneration,” said Nakles. “The honor made me feel extremely happy. When I heard that I won through telephone call, I danced around the room.” Nakles’ educational plans will lead to fulfillment of her goals and career of going into medical school. In sixteen years, Nakles hopes to be completed with college, medical school and residency, and be a successful research scientist in neurology. Nakles will be somebody who impacts the world to make it a better place, truly “Changing The World,” Nakles’ favorite song by her favorite band, Finger 11. “I really would like to change the world,” remarked Nakles.

-Jimmy Singer

•tOP fIVE pERCENT•

•nATALIE nAKLES•

The High Post Seniors 2012 • 13

Engineering is a growing industry in the world, country and especially locally. Ensuring a successful future and career, students took advantage of the unique Young Engineers program, a partnership between Greater Latrobe and the worldwide company, Kennametal and gained immense knowledge and overall unique opportunities. Greater Latrobe students in the program during the first year have benefited greatly from the unique and innovative program on their futures and careers, while their talents and drive have positively evolved the program in its first year. Seniors Austin Faddish, a first semester student and Angela Peretti, a second semester student, were especially impacted by the program. Faddish spoke at a National launch of Kennametal’s campaign “Deliver the Promise,” and joined Peretti in an appearance on “Our Region’s Business,” on WPXI-TV. Both outlets allowed the collective experiences of the program to speak to a large audience. “I think it was a really good experience that will really help to improve my future, especially being here during the first year,” said Peretti. “I realized that everyone goes into different careers, yet we all come together in the end to try to accomplish things and make the world a better place.” Both Faddish and Peretti plan to study engineering. Faddish will attend the Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute in New York, while Peretti will major in engineering at Penn State University Park.

-Jimmy Singer

“When the going gets tough, the tough get going.” - Joesph P. KennedyThroughout the 2011 and 2012 school year a group of seniors stepped in to unite our school. Seniors, Patrick Long, Nathan Bryan, Jeff Elam, Zach Daigle, Ty Holler, Jimmy Sarver, Dustin Shaffer, Mike Leonescue and Collin Cimba worked together to raise money in two seperate occasions. These students helped give hope to those hurting and raised more than $10,000 for the families in need. These seniors led our class, and school to becoming ‘United As One’. When the going got tough these strong and enduring young men saw a need and became fully engaged in helping those who needed it.

-Kaitlin Newintgham

Senior Ann Johnson has been involved in Vo-Tech for several years. She works in the plumbing and RHVAC

(refrigeration, heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) fields. She plans to use the hands-on experiences at EWCTC for a future career after high school with RHVAC. She has won numerous awards through her hard work there, including Best Project, Perfect Attendance, Ethics, and High Honors. She also scored in the advanced level for the NOCTI exam. “It was a positive experience and I learned a lot more than I thought I would. I really enjoyed my time there and it was a great option for me.”

-Natalie Ryall

•EWCTC•Four seniors in the class of 2012 earned the highest award a Boy Scout could earn, The Eagle Scout Award. They worked hard to develop, fundraise, and execute a project that would benefit their community. Zach Daigle’s project was completed in 2011. He built six benches around the Unity Township Municipal Building. He dedicated the benches to Veterans and engraved “All Gave Some- Some Gave All” into each bench. Dan Kubus renovated the children’s playrooms at the Westmoreland County Court House. He also held a toy and book drive over Thanksgiving to benefit the rooms. His project was completed in 2011. Ian Steel completed his project in the summer of 2010. He replaced the roofs on the dugouts at West Point Little League. He also gave the dugouts a fresh coat of paint. Charlie Musik built a bridge at the Power Mill Nature Reserve for his Eagle Scout project. He completed his project in 2009.

-Lizzie Ruppen

•Eagle Scouts•

•YOUNG ENGINEERS•

•UNITED AS ONE•

“Life is not measured by the number of breaths we take, but by the moments that take our breath away.” This quote, a favorite of mine, helps to define both purpose and goals in my life. I want to live life to the fullest and to allow beauty and goodness to “take my breath away.” I want to share my enthusiasm with others as I live out my goals. My dream is to have a career where I can help people to live their lives to the fullest, through being healthy and happy. This is why I think becoming a Physician Assistant is the right path for me. Having had the luxury of being able to shadow my mother, who is a Nurse Practitioner, makes me even more certain of what I want to accomplish. I find the medical field to be very interesting and would like to interconnect that interest with my passion for connecting with people. Through volunteering at Outdoor Odyssey which is a “growth through adventure” camp for underprivileged kids I saw firsthand how truly lucky and blessed I am by my own life circumstances while learning that even the smallest intervention can make a big difference. Although I feel ready to begin a new chapter in my life, I can’t help but become a little melancholy as I look around at the friends I have spent my whole life with in the area that I have generations of roots laid down. But now I have realized that it is time to start to lay down my own roots a little bit and become braver. Whenever I am not sure if I have what it takes, I remember a Winnie the Pooh quote that my mom always told me, “You are braver than you believe, stronger than you seem and smarter than you think.” This is a quote that I will carry with me throughout my entire life to live beside.

The High Post14 • Staff Farewell

Once upon a time in a kingdom far, far away, there lived a young maiden named Klaudia. Now the one thing Klaudia loved to do more than anything in the whole world was to read. One day, on her many book adventures, she read one novel that truly inspired her, Peter Pan. J. M. Barrie starts this book by saying, “All children, except one, grow up.” However, after reading the book cover to cover, she ignored the warning and never wanted to grow up. With this in mind, she continued with her daily life. She read, listened to her elders, and went to school every day, always remembering her fight against growing old. She graduated grade school at Christ the Divine Teacher School and moved on to the junior high school. Here, she made lots of new friends and had plenty of fun adventures. But, time continued to fly by and she moved up to the high school. She realized high school was a rather old step, but she never once worried. High school was simply a larger junior high- so she wouldn’t need to say good bye to anyone or anything. And, as Peter taught Klaudia, “Never say goodbye because goodbye means going away and going away means forgetting.” Not only did Klaudia focus on never forgetting as she reached Greater Latrobe High School, but she worked hard every day. She took classes that enlightened her way of thinking, met teachers that expanded her mind, and made friendships that created memories for a lifetime. Even when she reached the high school, she did not think she would ever grow up. But, after three years in the building, she realized she would be graduating high school in less than a week. A high school graduate? Someone who graduates from high school is old! Clearly grown up! This had become a problem! After working for years, she never realized that growing up would just happen. She always thought it would be a choice! But, Klaudia then paused for a moment. All those years of happy times had been growing up, and it had still been fun. Maybe, growing up wouldn’t be so bad. She then consulted with her ever trusty copy of Peter Pan and she was right. Right inside it told her that “to live will be awful big adventure.” So, Klaudia changed her mind- her new goal was to live and grow. So that’s what she did. She took her last finals, completed her ultimate literature research essay, calculated her last derivative, and wrote her final journalism article. She woke up on June 1 and graduated from high school, the first of her many adventures.

“Marty!” Doc Brown shook Marty’s shoulders frantically and shouted, “We have to go back!”“Back? Back where?”“Back…” Doc stepped away and gazed pensively into the distance, “…to the future!” Throughout my senior year, I haven’t had a whole lot of time to watch movies, but today, on a rainy day with no one around and nowhere to go, I’ve decided to curl up on the couch with a blanket and a bag of popcorn with my favorite crazy time doctor and his loveable red-vested sidekick in the timeless ‘80s classic Back to the Future. I’ve always loved the movie, but now, as I creep closer to my final days of high school, I’ve gained a new appreciation for it. The movie reflects my high school career, even though I haven’t gone back in time. Let’s go back to my first day of high school. Although I was terrified of getting lost and missing my classes, I wasn’t scared of the future. I had it all figured out: I was going to ace high school and become a vagabond writer. I would write masterpieces that my favorite production companies would turn into movies, television shows, and musicals. I didn’t see this as a dream, I saw it as destiny. I didn’t want to be a writer, I had to be, or so I thought back then. Throughout my high school career, I’ve tried so many things that I don’t know what to be anymore. I’ve tried my hand at performing in front of a crowd by being the mascot. I’ve taken a shot at radio journalism with an internship at Pittsburgh radio station WYEP. I’ve even tried photography with my experience at the High Post. As I sit on the couch, I realize that, like Doc Brown, I must return to the future. When I began high school, I could practically see my future as if I had a crystal ball. Now that I’ve tried all sorts of new things, the glass of my crystal ball has fogged. I’m attending DePaul University with an undecided major, and while I couldn’t be more excited, I can’t shake the feeling that I may never decide on a career. High school has helped me realize that I’m interested in a little bit of everything, not a whole lot of nothing. Hopefully my life takes me to places that I can try everything possible, just as high school has. High school has truly expanded my mind, and hopefully my college experience does the same.

Looking back elementary school seems like it happened just yesterday, I never imagined that the past twelve years would have gone by so fast. The end of the year was always a bitter sweet event, throughout elementary school each last day ended with a familiar static shuffling then the opening notes of Graduation by Vitamin C. I had no idea what those words would mean so much when the final days of my senior year came, slowly I’m beginning to realize their weight. The reality of REALLY moving on has begun to set in, it wasn’t even a worry when our principal plagued our minds with graduation words. But here I am, a senior, elementary school long gone, junior high not long behind it and high school slowly slipping through my fingers. Next year I’ll be on my own, a new city, new friends, alone for the first time in my life. I try not to cry as I think of all the people I will be leaving, all the memories we’ve had, the stories we’ve told and the laughs we’ve shared. We used to shed tears on the last days of the single digit grades, but they never really meant anything, We knew we would be back next year, new teacher, new grade, old friends. Now, just days from graduation I feel those tears coming again, this time as I think about the last 12 years I’ve spent with my fellow seniors, getting ready to take the next step. “I guess I thought that this would never end/And suddenly it's like we're women and men/Will the past be a shadow that will follow us 'round?/Will these memories fade when I leave this town/I keep, keep thinking that it's not goodbye/Keep on thinking it's a time to fly.”

Every end is a new beginning...

It’s hard to believe that my high school career is coming to a close. When looking back… I see all the amazing opportunities that I have the option to participate in, the wonderful experiences such as Pennsylvania Free Enterprise Week, Appalachia Service Project, and Multimedia Journalism, to name a few. I see the incredible people I have had the privilege of meeting and the honor of calling my friend. I see the conversations that have changed my life whether it was a motivational speech to do my best, or the open conversation explaining my move to Latrobe, Pennsylvania. I see lots and lots of dancing, dance classes, dress rehearsals, recitals, parades, competitions, community shows, hallways filled of dancing through them, desks that I tapped under, parking lots, front yards, drive ways, I’ve danced in. I see the amazing dance families I could ever ask for, and the three spectacular women who have impacted my life and instilled a love for dance in me. I see the loving teachers that have touched my life, each leaving a little bit of themselves within me. I see my incredible parents and brave brother, I know without the three of them I would not be where I am today. If I have learned anything from the pass 13 years of schooling, it’s this, take every opportunity, live with no regrets, do whatever you can to save meaningful relationships, laugh a lot, cry when needed, take a chance, listen to advice, volunteer, do what you love, find your passion, think outside the box, ask questions, cherish the good moments and find the good in the bad, never be afraid to be yourself. Graduation is not the end; it’s the beginning. ~Orrin Hatch

Shea AugustineSports Editor

Klaudia LongOpinions Editor

Kaitlin NewinghamIn-Depth Editor

Lizzie RuppenPrint Editor

Ally BairPhoto Editor

Natalie RyallReporter

Greater Latrobe...I’ve been here for four years. I remember graduating from my old private school and wondering what I would do. Home school, another private school, or public school? I had to choose one. Home-schooling would have been great; I would’ve accomplished more academics in four years if I had done so. I had the opportunity to gradu-ate high school with an associate’s degree. But I don’t regret my choice in coming to Latrobe. I ended up making a lot of friends and met a few who I wouldn’t imagine life without. I learned to get along with all sorts of people. I genuinely enjoyed my time here. Sure, I didn’t do a sport or many school activities, but yet, I

wouldn’t trade going to Latrobe for anything. A few of my teachers have been such wonder-ful influences and genuine friends to me. These are things I wouldn’t have gotten through any other schooling, because education isn’t just about textbooks. I had many opportunities to open up in places I didn’t expect, like writing for the newspaper. While here, I was able to learn a lot about jour-nalism and I delved more into my love for mu-sic and French. I really discovered what I want to do in life by being here. I always wanted to be a teacher, but I gained passion for it at this school through the opportunities I had. I had the

This statement is so cliché for a senior, but I cannot believe that my senior year of high school has come to an end already. I can remember walking through the doors entering my senior year like it was yesterday, and now I am days away from the moment I will be walking across the stage to accept my high school diploma. This year was one I will never forget, thanks to my friends and family who have guided me and supported me through the good and bad times, and for my teachers who have prepared me for the next step in my life. I was features editor for The High Post this past year and this was my third year involved with journalism. I have learned a lot through my experience on staff that I can use throughout my life. We accomplished a lot this year working as a team and overcame many obstacles together. Working after school trying to finalize layouts in order to send, traveling to WVU together to accept the awards we won for our hard work, and just going through the same experience and supporting and helping each other out has definitely brought us closer. It is hard to believe that this is our last issue together.My senior year has definitely been one of the more stressful years of my high school career, but now that I look back, I am glad that I challenged myself year with the classes I took and proud of the choices I made. I am looking forward to my future at Gannon University but I will never forget my experiences here at GLSHS and of course the people I have grown up with for these past years. I am blessed to have the amazing the people who I have been friends with for as long as I can remember and those who I grew so close to this year alone. It will be so different starting college without these friends I have known since I was in elementary school, but even though we will be going our separate ways, we will never grow apart.

The High Post Staff Farewell • 15

Growing up, each individual matures within the three developmental stages; a child into teenage years then having the responsibility of becoming a young adult; taking on every challenge and experience that goes along with the process. Once entering into the senior high, a feeling of anxiousness overcomes everything else. After three years, acknowledging that you will accomplish something amazing. Throughout my sophomore, junior and senior year; my hard work and dedication got me to where I am today, a proud senior preparing to graduate with my class of 2012. Every school year, I had the chance to meet great teachers who allowed me to succeed in my own way for college and for what will come my way years down the road. In my three years of high school, I have dreaded waking up in the morning, studying for tests, and completing my assignments. It took much motivation to get me through the 180 days that were required; however I knew it was necessary if I truly wanted to pursue my goal of becoming a neonatal nurse after receiving my diploma and continuing on with a lot of schooling in college. Along with school work and going through tons of worksheets, I have created great memories with friends I will never forget and the staff of the senior high who reminded me that anything is possible. With moments of tears, happiness, good laughs, and fun, these are the things I will remember for a lifetime. I thank my mother for supporting me every step of the way and pushing me to live my dreams. I also thank all of my true friends who have been there from the start and who have never let me down. As the class of 2012 graduates and moves on to the next chapter of their life, we all will have another opportunity to shine and show the world what we are made of; using the tips and guidance Greater Latrobe had given us. Between the good and the bad times, each individual should live life as if each day is their last. After I walk across the stage at graduation, I am not saying goodbye to the senior high, but farewell because the memories, advice, and memorable moments will continue to remain in my heart forever.

When you endeavor on your first day of first grade, you think twelve years will take an eternity. But now, as I reflect on my education thus far, the time seems to have flown. Where have the days gone when my homework consisted of writing my name ten times? The elementary school Jumpathons have just slipped out of my fingers. It feels like yesterday that I walked into the junior high cafeteria on the first day of junior high, overwhelmed by the number of faces I did not recognize. Now those same friends that I became so close to since then, I must say goodbye to. How do you define “family”? Is it being stuck with one another day after day for years? Seeing each other twenty minutes after we’ve rolled out of bed? Sharing meals, pencils, and frustration? If that is what family is, then there is no way to describe this senior class as anything but family. We’ve all built so many friendships over the years and as I feel the onset of such nostalgia, I must remember that the memories we’ve made will last a lifetime. But the memories are not the only thing I will cherish. The knowledge I’ve gained through experience will lead me through the next stage of my life. The difficult courses, the late nights, and the manic schedule I’ve had to juggle can only make my college experience that much easier. GLSD has provided me with the opportunity to succeed in whatever path I may choose for myself. I believe we all want to leave something behind; something to be remembered by. I hope that I will be remembered by my drive to achieve. My wish for the rest of the GLSD students is that they likewise strive for success, and never give up.

It’s hard to imagine not entering the wide double doors from the pitch dark parking lot into the brightly lit commons, too early in the morning, for another year. On August 28 2011, I didn’t realize how fast my senior year of high school would go. I was ready for a full schedule of AP calculus, AP English, AP human Geography, physics, journalism, college planning, AP tests, and anything else school threw my way. I had no idea just how busy this year would keep me. I figured it would be the typical senior year that you always hear about…coming into school late, easing through the day with fun classes and too many study halls but it was quite the opposite and I’m glad it was. My packed schedule kept me busy from 6:55 AM to late into the night, sometimes after 80 minute soccer games over 45 minutes away, writing research papers, finishing articles, and studying for calc tests. My frantic senior year will soon be over and the class of 2012 will begin their next chapter. I could never forget my soccer teammates who I have become so close to over the past four years and how we stuck together on and off the field. I will always remember the memories of the Wildcat Den on Friday nights during football season on neon night and camo night, and the basketball den on costume night, surrounded by friends who made high school worth going to. My classes challenged me but my teachers and friends found ways to make them fun. This year was definitely a year that I grew both emotionally and academically, learning ways to deal with adversity and gaining invaluable time management skills. My time spent at this school, especially my final year here, has prepared me for experiences beyond high school. After June 1st, I won’t be a part of this high school anymore, but it will always be a part of me.

Just three short years ago, I recall arriving with excitement, fear and overall anticipation to the senior high orientation. An administrator spoke the words that have influenced me ever since, “Don’t let your locker be your only home here at the senior high.” Being slightly uninvolved in junior high, I wondered how such would become a reality, asking myself where I would fit in. With only weeks left before graduation, I am proud to say that I hardly visit my locker, truly finding a home in the publications wing, especially in The High Post room, where my professional mentors, fellow staff members and true passions continue to influence me daily. I can truly say that I have enjoyed every minute of high school, especially the unique opportunities for growth and learning journalism has offered. Leading the passionate and talented 2011-2012 staff of The High Post was truly a gratifying experience that will impact me for the rest of my life, no matter which direction I go. The knowledge I have gained and the relationships I have made will forever stay with me.It seems impossible to me that high school is almost over. Just days ago, I hid behind the bushes to try to escape from the “dreaded” first day of pre-school, and hours ago, I made the large transition from a class of eighteen in my sixth grade elementary class to junior high. Now, in the present, the future is equally full of anticipation and apprehensive, just as graduation from Greater Latrobe will be equally bittersweet. As I walk the stage for the final time at graduation, I can confidently say high school has been one of the greatest experiences of my life thus far and I have gained far more than I ever could have expected. I thank the teachers and faculty that have been there for me along every step of the way, my fellow peers of the class of 2012, for creating the supportive “family,” whether in good or bad times, and all other that have impacted me in some way, large or small. As one chapter of my life ends, I hope the next will follow these wise words by Dr. Success, “You have brains in your head. You have feet in your shoes. You can steer yourself any direction you choose. You’re on your own. And you know what you know. And YOU are the one who’ll decide where to go...”

privilege of being president of P.A.W. this year, and although I wish I would’ve done more with it, I’m thrilled I had the honor of being in that position. That was one of the things I most looked forward to in coming to the senior high. The past few years have been wonderful. Stressful and exhausting at times, though. I remember staying up until 2 o’clock in the morning at times to get schoolwork done on those nights where every teacher gave

assignments, yet I’m thankful for moments like that. I started to develop a strong work ethic through those things. Some of the toughest and happiest moments of my life occurred during these high school years, and I won’t forget them easily. This senior year is one I won’t forget. I will always remember the great memories I’ve had here with so many dear people. I’ll remember and cherish the small things most, such as the two minute, but deep and

meaningful, conversations held with teachers before my next class, or the empty hallways I walked through goofing off with friends, and especially the short car rides to and from school with my best friends. I loved being here, even if I denied it in the past. Although many students refuse to say it, I will miss this place. Farewell, Greater Latrobe. I hope you offer others what you offered me.

Stevie HustonReporter

Chelsea CronerReporter

Courtney JosephReporter

Rachel StaufferFeatures Editor

Jimmy SingerEditor-In-Chief

“Together we have experienced life, separately we will pursue our dreams, and forever our memories will remain.”