studentjournalism

Pros & Cons of AI  

Posted on by gshslionsdenadmin

By Samarah Guy  

Photo by: Samarah Guy

Teachers and students are torn on deciding whether or not AI will prove to be beneficial for today’s society. 

Artificial intelligence is a form of computer science that uses human intelligence to do everyday tasks like reasoning, generalizing, discovering meaning and problem solving.  

“I think AI has some good things about it, but I also think it has bad things about it because people come to rely on it more than human creativity,” technology education teacher Mr. Matthew King said.  

Artificial intelligence isn’t always used ethically. Students tend to use it to get quick answers for homework, but this is actually causing a lack of comprehension because no new information is being taken in.  

“I think people need to realize that ethics is also in control of the user,” Mr. King added. “Don’t use it as a substitute for learning, use it as an enhancement.”  

Students use AI as a substitute for their own abilities, resulting in their dependence on technology. It’s less likely for those relying on AI to develop certain skills further such as critical thinking. 

“The most important thing is to not hide from it, but to learn how to use it as a tool,” English teacher Mrs. Mary Logan said.  

Some teachers may even use AI to help make plans for upcoming classes, as well as for referencing when they need a quick and direct answer.  

“I have used artificial intelligence predominantly to generate things that I used to have to come up with on my own,” Mrs. Logan said. “For example, if I want to play a game … with vocabulary words, now I can go into chat AI and say, ‘give me sentences for each word using context clues.’”  

Students can also use AI in beneficial ways like checking over answers, receiving direct answers to questions or even to study.

“I use it as a search engine whenever I have a really specific question that google can’t answer,” senior Aryana Galdo said. “… once it can be integrated without completely diminishing a system, I think it could be capitalized on.”  

Artificial intelligence has the potential to be beneficial for everyone without negatively affecting some; however, it still has kinks that need to be ironed out before it can get to that point.  

“It’s meant to be help to you not the reason you get it right,” math teacher Mr. Matthew Sofran said.  

The Doors | “The Doors”

Posted on by gshslionsdenadmin

 By Kerrick Shaw 

Photo by: Kerrick Shaw

The Doors, officially formed in 1965, are one of the most quintessential Rock and Roll bands of all time. With the frontman, Jim Morrison, being one of Rock’s mythic figures, it is nearly impossible to avoid his troubled life and where it led the band. 

Ray Manzarek (keyboardist), then frontman of Rick & the Ravens, immediately wanted Morrison in the band after hearing a poem of his, which later became “Moonlight Drive.” After one month of Morrison’s overshadowing role in the group, drummer John Densmore joined as well. Before the year’s end, the remaining two members of Rick & the Ravens had left, then being replaced by guitarist Robbie Krieger.  

“The Doors,” their debut album, released in 1967, immediately gave the band their reputation for pushing the boundaries of what rock was, both musically and lyrically. With his poetic nature, alluring voice and the popularity that came from his traits, Morrison embraced his role of the wild artist. 

With the continuous spotlight on him during live performances, the other members leaned back and watched the magic happen. However, with no precautions to help him, “Mr. Mojo Risin” quickly succumbed to misfortunes of his own making.  

After leading them through fire and ice over their six-year drive, Morrison joined the infamous 27 club in 1971. This “club” consists of celebrities, such as Jimi Hendrix and Kurt Cobain, who all coincidentally passed at the early age of 27.  

His many troubles with the law and his blackout concert performances stemmed from intense drinking and drug habits, one particularly famous event leading to no less than five misdemeanor charges and a felony charge to boot for public profanity and exposure during a show in 1969. He unashamedly lived the reckless rock ’n’ roll lifestyle until the end. 

“The Doors” is, in my opinion, their strongest album. Filled from start to finish with absolutely iconic songs, some of which being their most popular, I’d consider it one of the greatest debut albums of all time. It managed to reach the number two spot on the Billboard 200, beat by The Beatles’ “Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band.” 

The opening track, “Break on Through (To the Other Side),” has consistently been my favorite Doors song since my first time listening. Other songs off the album, such as “Light My Fire” and “The Crystal Ship,” hold high rankings as well. 

The sound varies from the Chicago Blues, with “Back Door Man,” to German Opera, with “Alabama Song (Whiskey Bar).” A majority of the songs were birthed from poems written by Morrison, bringing an unmatched, almost mesmerizing feeling to each one.  

If you’re looking for not just an entrance into the world of The Doors, but also a lead into Classic Rock as a whole, “The Doors” is the perfect place to start. 

Winter Sports Wrap-up  

Posted on by gshslionsdenadmin

By Samarah Guy  

The Greensburg Salem winter sports season has come to an end.  

The winter sports include boys’ and girls’ swim, boys’ and girls’ bowling, wrestling, boys’ and girls’ basketball and hockey. 

Boys’ Swim  

The boys’ swim team didn’t have winning in their favor this season, but they tried to beat the odds to win.  

“The guys usually lose because there are only five of us,” sophomore Austin Flora said.  

The average high school swim team usually has 15-20 members, so the GS team didn’t have as great of a chance of winning.  

The biggest issue the boys’ swim team has ran into was the quantity. Gaining more members could help the team majorly, and they could even win more meets next year.  

Girls’ Swim 

The GS girls’ swim team has done well this season, and they’ve pulled their weight when they couldn’t win.  

“In the athletic aspect we’re doing really well,” senior Emily Lehman said.  

After a long journey of working hard and trying their best, Lucy Giovannelli, Emily Lehman, Riley Reese and Allison Stinnett made WPIALs.                     

“We were very close all season and we couldn’t get it until our very last meet, and we surpassed the qualifying time by like 4 or 5 seconds,” Lehman added.  

Boys’ Bowling  

The GS bowling team had an amazing season, winning almost every match they’ve had, but they did face a few challenges in the process.  

“Hempfield has been our biggest challenge this season,” junior Dylan Megliorino stated.  

Trying to beat your biggest rival is very gut wrenching, but the bowling team didn’t stop. During their practices, each member tried to beat their last score and become better so they could beat the challenging opponents.  

The boys’ bowling team qualified for regionals. Dylan Megliorino, Justice Payne, Brandon Semoni and Anthony DeMine qualified individually for WPIBLs, but only Dylan made it to states placing 9th.  

“We all can work on our spares and mental games,” Megliorino said.  

Girls’ Bowling  

The GS girls’ bowling team placed third in sectionals, and they went to regionals as well this season.  

“The girls have improved a lot as a whole by bringing our average up to around 680,” senior Shelby Frick said. 

Trying to achieve better spares is something the team had worked to overcome.  

The whole bowling team made it to regionals, while Paige Gaughan and Shelby Frick qualified individually.  

“For me, bowling isn’t just about high averages and wins, it’s about the connections, friends, and support you make along the way,” Frick added.  

Wrestling  

The GS wrestling team tried their best to win each tournament and become better wrestlers all round.  

“Individually yea, each one of us is doing well,” freshman Elijah Miller said.  

Each wrestler did well individually, but that doesn’t always mean they win each tournament.  

Ethan Miller, David Peters and Keegan Young qualified individually for WPIALs.  

“There is always room for improvement, you never reach perfection, but that’s what you aim for,” Elijah added.  

Boys’ Basketball  

The boys’ basketball team had a bit of a rough season, but they were still optimistic and tried to find ways to better themselves to win.  

The biggest issue that the team had to overcome is their communication according to sophomore Lucus Collins.  

Basketball is a team sport that requires everyone to talk and understand what they will be doing in the game. Teamwork was another issue preventing the boys from winning.  

“Our players need to work together better,” sophomore Lucas Collins said.  

The greatest win was a 59-50 victory against Indiana Area Senior High School on January 26th.  

Photo Courtesy: Adison Poole

Girls’ basketball  

The girls’ basketball team was 16-9.  

“We had a really hard section and I think we competed well against every team,” junior Blessing Gantt said.  

The girls had a 43-20 victory against Hopewell in the first playoff game, but they had a 62-36 loss against Highlands in the second game.  

“We just have to work hard and stay consistent in order to win next year,” sophomore Mya Heasley said.  

 Hockey  

The GS hockey team was 13-5 this season.  

“This year we are doing pretty good, but we can always do better,” freshman Jacob Fink said. 

The hard work the team put in this season took them to the playoffs. The boys had a 5-1 victory against Plum during the first playoff game, and they had a 2-0 victory against Quaker Valley during the second game. After advancing to the Penguins’ Cup Final, they lost a hard-fought game to Chartiers Valley.  

“Our goal is to become the team that Greensburg deserves to have,” Fink added.   

The Beatles’ “1962-1966” (The Red Album) and “1967-1970” (The Blue Album) 

Posted on by gshslionsdenadmin

By Kerrick Shaw 

Photo by: Kerrick Shaw

 Made up of John Lennon, Paul McCartney, George Harrison and Ringo Starr, The Beatles are arguably the most famous and inspirational band to ever exist.  

After forming the band in 1957, McCartney and Lennon played shows around their hometown of Liverpool, working with various bandmates before eventually adding Harrison by the end of that same year. Starting out with names like “The Quarrymen” and “The Silver Beetles,” they were soon picked up by record label Parlaphone.  

After searching for a drummer to best complement their sound, Starr became part of the group in 1962, replacing Pete Best. As a result of numerous appearances on British television and their rise in popularity, the term “Beatlemania” came to fruition.  

Despite their only seven-year run, the Fab Four managed to release 12 studio albums, some popular releases being: “Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band” (1967) and “Abbey Road” (1969). All four contributed their vocals to the songs, each using a variety of instruments while exploring new and unique studio techniques that separated new releases from their previous work. 

 “1962-1966” and “1967-1970,” more often referred to as the red and blue albums respectively, are collections perfectly encapsulating their magic. The red album consists of the poppy, simple, love-filled Beatles music prior to their transition into the ‘60s hippie movement represented with the blue album.  

With a combined total of 54 tracks, they serve as the definitive Beatles collection. Being that they’re filled with the absolute essentials, and that most Beatles songs are fantastic, it’s hard to choose standouts.   

From the red album, a few favorites of mine would be “All My Loving,” “Yesterday,” and “In My Life.”  For the blue, “Ob-La-Di, Ob-La-Da,” “While My Guitar Gently Weeps,” and “Across the Universe.”  Both tracklists bring such a uniquely joyful feeling that no other band is capable of, moving me to twist and shout with the music. 

Similar to The Cure’s “Staring at the Sea,” these are the best recommendations for anybody looking to begin their journey down the long and winding road of The Beatles, as well as being perfect for any Beatle-fanatic. 

GSHS Outdoor Classroom Project

Posted on by gshslionsdenadmin

By Kerrick Shaw

Photo by: Kerrick Shaw

A change in scenery will be implemented by the start of the next school year for students and teachers to enjoy time learning in the sun. 

On top of renovating the pond and landscaping, the school board is moving forward with a pavilion project for classroom purposes, building on top of the cement slab outside of the science wing. 

“There used to be a greenhouse that sat outside by Mrs. Harper’s room … when that got taken down, that cement area was just left there,” GS Superintendent Dr. Ken Bissell said. “A lot of the science teachers still use that outdoor space … the science department really took the lead on deciding how to renovate it.” 

All students were taken into consideration during the decision making for this project, keeping it available to all classes rather than exclusively sciences. 

“It became, ‘can we have an area that any class or any student can use?’ with the pavilion and seating,” Environment and Ecology teacher Mr. Angelo Testa said. “Everything from science classes, obviously, to art classes, English – just anyone who wants to go outside will get to have this space.” 

Students have shared excitement for the space, agreeing that it will be beneficial for everyone. 

“I think the introduction of an outdoor classroom will be a great addition to the school, especially with the ecology classes,” junior Aiden Carota said. “… many students will be happy to get out of the building for some fresh air.” 

The School Board will be voting to move forward with a contractor and will then be able to map out the full timeline of the project. 

“I am hopeful for the pavilion to be done before summer,” Dr. Bissell said. “However, for the whole project – pavilion, pond, landscaping – I’d like that all to be ready for the next school year.” 

The staff involved are eager to provide this designated spot for outdoor learning. 

“There’s a certain energy that comes out of it,” Principal Mr. Adam Jones said. “It’s like: ‘Aw man!’ That’s what I hope it becomes, ‘Hey, let’s go use the outdoor classroom.’” 

Teen Issues  

Posted on by gshslionsdenadmin

By Samarah Guy  

Resources can be found in the guidance office for further help with various teen problems such as bullying, low self-esteem and social anxiety.

Bullying  

Bullying is something that may never be stopped, but understanding what it is and why people do it is important.  

People bully for many different reasons, some of which being to feel a sense of power, to become popular, home issues, wanting attention or out of boredom. Some may even bully as a form of revenge for being bullied in the past.  

Dealing with bullying can be very difficult, but putting an end to it is more important. Avoiding engagement with the bully, staying positive, distracting one’s mind, talking it out with the bully or seeking higher authority are some of the most helpful ways to handle the problem.  

“It’s mostly verbal, I think, at this point,” French teacher Ms. Laura Hoffer said.  

Bullying can be physical, verbal, online or prejudicial. Physical bullying happens in person, and it involves someone assaulting another person. Verbal bullying is when one may use words to hurt someone’s feelings. Bullying that occurs online is called cyberbullying. Prejudicial bullying is when someone bullies another person because of their age, gender, religion, disability or sexual orientation.  

“I think it’s hard to get the bully’s words out of your head, especially at an adolescent age, so talking to someone is going to help a lot,” Ms. Hoffer added. 

When trying not to be a bully, one should think before doing it, remove oneself from the bullies around, change one’s perspective, stop being a bystander or talk to a professional.  

Low Self-esteem  

Low self-esteem is when one has a very negative opinion of themselves.  

There are many causes to low self-esteem, but the main causes are social media, peer pressure, bullying, parental influence or social interactions.  

“Surround yourself with positive people who will boost you,” Guidance Counselor Mr. John Manley said. 

After having low self-esteem, most people tend to gain anxiety, eating disorders, emotional distress or panic disorders.  

“Try not to focus your energy on the things that you can’t do, but focus your energy on the things that you can do,” Mr. Manley added.   

To help with one’s self-esteem one must encourage trying new things, encourage physical activity, find positive thoughts about oneself and simply just be positive. Talking to a friend, family member or professional is another way that can help.  

Social Anxiety  

Social anxiety is when one fears being social or has a lot of anxiety when in social environments.  

Social anxiety can look different for many people. Normally one will have few friends, avoid talking to people, especially strangers, avoid going out, feel embarrassed after being social, be self-conscious, be anxious about being around people, lack engaging with others or simply just be shy.  

“Just keep in mind that no one’s judging you and stay positive,” health teacher Mrs. Alyssa Lukatch said. 

To help someone suffering with the disorder one can offer breathing exercises, encourage therapy, congratulate the little accomplishments, be supportive or just listen when it’s needed. To ease one’s social anxiety, deep breathing, facing fears, fighting negativity or talking to someone are the most common ways to help.   

“You also want to be positive in who you are, and know that most people have social anxiety too,” Mrs. Lukatch added. 

The Cure | “Staring at the Sea”

Posted on by gshslionsdenadmin

By Kerrick Shaw 

Photo by: Kerrick Shaw

Formed in 1978, The Cure, originally called Easy Cure, is a British rock band known for their varying styles in music and the frontman’s unique look.  

Through several lineup changes, the band has remained active, having released 13 studio albums and soon releasing their 14th. Robert Smith (vocalist, guitarist and primary songwriter) has remained the only constant member of The Cure, having originally formed it with Lol Tolhurst (drummer and keyboardist) and Michael Dempsey (bass guitarist). 

The 80s proved critical for the band’s success, primarily in the U.S., finding their way into rock radio channels, as well as onto the Billboard Top 100 in 1985 with songs “In Between Days” and “Close to Me,” both from their sixth album, “The Head on the Door” (1985).  

Their second album, “Seventeen Seconds” (1980), established their melancholic sound, especially apparent in “A Forest,” the seventh track. The darker style, different from the ‘70s punk feel of “Three Imaginary Boys” (1979), continued to be explored with many of their albums to come.  

Along with bands like Bauhaus, Joy Division and Siouxsie and The Banshees, The Cure helped to define gothic rock with their haunting instrumentals and sophisticated lyrics. “Disintegration” (1989), their best-selling album, is considered the greatest goth album of all time. 

Shifting between Gothic and New Wave, albums like “Kiss Me, Kiss Me, Kiss Me” (1987) and “Wish” (1992) have more upbeat tones with love-filled themes. The difference between a song such as “Lullaby,” with its long breaks of eerie guitar and synth sounds, compared to the strong and playful horns of “Why Can’t I Be You?” may make the two sound like completely different bands to those who are not familiar with them. Both albums lean more towards the Pop side of ‘80s and ‘90s music. 

When picking CDs for a long car ride or a record to play as loud as possible, “Staring at the Sea” is a go-to. Made up of all their singles released up until 1986, this compilation perfectly encapsulates their changes in sound, filled with hits such as “Boys Don’t Cry” and “The Lovecats.” 

In my opinion, The Cure has released some of the most emotion-inducing music; having equal portions of their darker goth rock music and their cheerful, keyboard led pop-like music, this collection is perfect for jumping around and flipping your hair to, as well as for sitting in a corner and moping.  

I see it as the best place to start for those interested in listening to The Cure as it appeals to different tastes as well as essential for fans of their popular songs to find lesser-known hits like “The Caterpillar.”  

High School Happenings

Posted on by gshslionsdenadmin

By Kerrick Shaw 

Photo by: Kerrick Shaw

Papers are posted all over the high school walls promoting what is happening now and coming soon, some serving as call-to-actions and others being informational. 

Dodge For a Cause 

Flyers around the school were promoting sign-ups for this year’s Mini-THON. Push Week Incentives were recently shared on the GS Mini-THON Instagram, @gsminithon, motivating students to donate towards the fight against childhood cancer. 

“The constant is to raise money and awareness for pediatric cancer,” Faculty advisor Mr. Matthew Boe said. “We try to go about that in different ways, learning from previous years, keeping in mind what went well and what didn’t. We try to continue to add something new, different twists to keep it exciting.” 

The incentives start with pieing Mr. Demary in the face at $5,000 raised, ending with the leadership team going skydiving at $50,000. 

Blessing Bags 

“Blessing Bags” are being promoted as well; a movement to put together as many bags as possible, filled with necessities such as toiletries, food, clothes and other small things anyone could find useful. The goal is to have bags available at GS Threads, as well as giving them to people within the school for handing out. 

“We still need more items before we can build viable bags,” NHS faculty advisor Mrs. Cheryl Harper said. “We are getting there, but it has slowed down a lot. … We are still taking donations.” 

Bio-Club 

GSHS’ Bio club took donations for their Humane Society Donation Drive, all of which went to Westmoreland’s Humane Society. Cleaning products, animal care products and other supplies were taken during first block classes from January 29th until February 9th.  

Golden Lion Shoppe 

Located across from the cafeteria, The Golden Lion Shoppe is now open on Tuesdays and Thursdays during advisory. 

 “We wanted to give students the opportunity to practice job and social skills,” Faculty advisor Mrs. Leisa Ecklund said. “We’re selling snacks, like chips, drinks, cookies, as well as some school supplies.” 

Prom 

Tickets for this year’s Prom will soon be available, starting March 25th. A special presale will begin on March 18th and end on the 22nd. Forms will be located outside of room 352 and are due to Mr. Gazze by 3:00 pm on April 5th. 

Folio 

Folio is now taking submissions for its 40th issue, asking students to consider sharing any artworks or writings for this year’s release. The magazine will be printed in full color once again. Submissions are due by April 2nd. 

“It’s a great way of bringing attention to how much talent we have at Greensburg Salem,” Folio editor Ariana Case said. “I think it also inspires others to create.” 

Snow Days VS.  FIDs Days  

Posted on by gshslionsdenadmin

By Samarah Guy  

Photo Courtesy: Alyssa Martinez

Many schools don’t have snow days anymore because Covid-19 opened a new world of virtual learning.  

GS has flexible instruction days, so students can do work from the comfort of their own home when the weather gets bad.  There are many advantages to FIDS days, but there are also many disadvantages.  

“I wouldn’t be comfortable doing online because I don’t get the hands on learning I need,” sophomore Nevaeh Hirst said.  

Many students need a teacher to physically show or help them when it comes to learning, and a computer screen doesn’t allow that to happen.  

Some teachers will make videos or step-by-step directions for the students, and many benefit from this because they can look back and make sure they are doing what is being asked.  

“If I were to virtually learn, I would slack off because there are more distractions for me at home,” Hirst commented.  

Distractions are more limited in school, and the teacher can bring the student’s attention back to the subject at hand. When the child is at home, anything around them can take their attention away from school because they are in their comfortable place.  

Students can also cheat on assignments using the technology around them. Not only is this not helping their brain work, but it’s also giving kids the opportunity to become dependent on technology.  

When GS has a FIDS day, many students may fall behind on their work or their grades may even lower.  

“When we do online my teachers usually don’t give work, but when they do, I don’t do it because I’m used to not having to,” junior Savannah Herring said.  

Some students may not be able to attend their virtual classes because they don’t have access to the items they need. Not being able to do work or log onto the live class, the students not only are falling behind on work, but they also will be marked absent.  

“I think if you have access to a computer or WIFI at home, you can benefit, but if you don’t have access, school shouldn’t hold you accountable for it,” U.S. government and politics teacher Ms. Sierra Aires said.  

Teacher and Staff Games

Posted on by gshslionsdenadmin

By Kerrick Shaw

Photo Courtesy: Mrs. Christina Burkhart

Tables have turned with teachers now running the halls playing games of their own. 

Started by associate principal Frank Sundry, High School staff members have been taking part in a faculty-wide camaraderie building game, separated into five teams with each competing against the others in different activities. 

Mr. Sundry formed this game for the staff as a team-building exercise to help form stronger relationships between them all.  

“For a school to be successful, you have to hold a positive culture,” Sundry said. “People have to enjoy coming to work; enjoying your work and your time spent with peers and coworkers has a positive effect on the classrooms, as well as teachers and students.” 

So far, they have proven to be a success amongst the staff. Starting with only about sixteen participants, just the first activity doubled that number. 

“I think once everybody realized what it was, we were all enthusiastic,” Librarian Mrs. Carrie Vottero said. “It has made us all have fun with each other, which we don’t really get to do. … It has made everybody feel like we are on a team together. … It’s just a great idea.” 

Fitting Sundry’s goal, participants find the game to be beneficial for their everyday lives. An important result is the communication it has brought between those who don’t normally get to speak, commonly from separation between floors. 

“It’s definitely good,” Physics teacher Mr. Christopher Gazze said. “I’ve interacted with more people, people that I usually wouldn’t; whether it’s in person or over chat. It’s really nice.” 

Regarding the games themselves, there is an almost consecutive favorite out of them all so far – that being the original. Somewhat of a scavenger hunt, each team hid GS logos throughout the school and searched for the others, the end goal being to find other team logos and keep your own hidden. 

As of right now, whether the game will be long-term or not is uncertain, as there are still factors that need to be ironed out. 

“The toughest task right now is the frequency,” Sundry said. “You don’t want to do it too much and over saturate, but you also don’t want to do it so little that people lose interest.”  

After everything regarding staff is set in stone, like the times for each activity, he said the plan is to eventually include students in the games. However, he is unsure when that could end up happening. 

As of now, the game has absolutely proven to be a hit with the teachers and will only keep growing in participation. Hopefully as years go by it will serve as a tradition among the staff. 

“We all say that it does,” Mrs. Vottero said when asked if the game has a future. “It’s just like a lesson: the first time you do it it’s only like a run through, but you know you’re going to do it better the next time. I absolutely think everybody would like to see this be something that sticks.”